In the world of Canadian football, the Ottawa REDBLACKS are gearing up for an exciting 2025 season after making their first playoff appearance in six years. With Bob Dyce at the helm as head coach, there’s a palpable sense of anticipation and optimism surrounding the team.

“Where we have to continue to grow is in the level of consistency we play with.”

Reflecting on their performance in 2024, Dyce emphasized the importance of consistency across all aspects of the game. Despite starting strong with an 8-3-1 record, a late-season slump taught them valuable lessons about maintaining peak performance week in and week out.

As Dyce pointed out, success shouldn’t be solely measured by wins but by consistently delivering top-notch performances. By focusing on doing things right every time they hit the field, Dyce believes that victories will naturally follow suit.

“He’s going to have a greater understanding and greater confidence in his environment.”

Dru Brown’s evolution into a reliable quarterback for the REDBLACKS has been a highlight worth celebrating. Acquired from Winnipeg last year, Brown showcased his prowess by throwing for nearly 4,000 yards and leading the team to an 8-6-1 record.

With Brown’s contract extension solidifying his role through 2026, Dyce is eager to witness his continued growth and impact on the field. The coach envisions Brown stepping up even further this season as he becomes more familiar with his teammates and gains confidence in his abilities.

“Our defensive line is really an area that gets the whole team going.”

A cornerstone of Ottawa’s success in 2024 was their formidable defensive line led by standout players like Lorenzo Mauldin IV and Michael Wakefield. Their collective efforts resulted in impressive sack numbers, setting the tone for the team’s defensive prowess.

The retention of key linemen like Bryce Carter and Cleyon Laing bodes well for maintaining defensive strength heading into the new season. Dyce emphasized how crucial these players are not only during games but also in setting high-intensity standards during practices—a fundamental aspect of their playing style.

“We want to be a physical team.”

The addition of William Stanback brings a powerful presence to Ottawa’s offense following his stellar performance with over 1,000 rushing yards last season. Known for his physicality and ability to wear down defenses, Stanback aligns perfectly with REDBLACKS’ vision of being a dominant force on the field.

Dyce highlighted how Stanback’s style complements their offensive strategy by allowing their line to dictate play aggressively rather than reactively. With Stanback onboard, Ottawa aims to revitalize its running game significantly—turning it into a potent weapon that can grind down opponents over four quarters.

“His history as a defensive backs coach…we need to be better in that area.”

Excitement brews among REDBLACKS fans with William Fields stepping into the role of defensive coordinator—a position he thrived in during Toronto Argonauts’ Grey Cup-winning campaign. Fields’ track record showcases expertise in bolstering defensive back performance—an area where Ottawa seeks improvement.

Dyce expressed enthusiasm about Fields’ arrival and shared insights into their professional history dating back over a decade. Anticipating enhanced strategies under Fields’ guidance based on past successes, Dyce looks forward to witnessing how Fields elevates Ottawa’s defense through innovative approaches.