The Redblacks have bounced back from last year’s championship loss to win the 2016 Grey Cup, beating Calgary 39-33 in overtime. It’s the city’s first Grey Cup win in 40 years.
Ottawa fans were cheering and clinking glasses after the Redblacks routed the Stampeders in the first half. All signs pointed to an Ottawa championship as the Redblacks strutted into the locker room up 20-7 before halftime.
The Stampeders mounted a colossal comeback in the second half. With 26 second-half points to Ottawa’s 13, Calgary drew the breath from Redblacks fans who watched their season fall apart touchdown after touchdown.
First-half cheers became second-half screams as fans watched the Stampeders collapse the lead and tie the game with just nine seconds remaining.
Regulation ended with both teams tied at 33 points, 10 seconds before the game ended.
Ottawa scored first, pressuring Calgary to respond with a touchdown of their own. The Redblacks stormed the field under silver streamers and confetti, screaming in victory.
“This one’s for you, Ottawa,” said Redblacks’ Henry Burris, the 41 year-old quarterback who was named the Grey Cup MVP.
Brad Sinopoli, University of Ottawa alumni and Redblacks receiver, was named Most Outstanding Canadian.
Mayor Jim Watson announced on Twitter that a Redblacks victory parade will take place Tuesday at 12 p.m at Bank Street and Pretoria Avenue.