Dyce will resume leading the Redblacks.
Following a second consecutive 4-14 season, general manager Shawn Burke announced that head coach Bob Dyce would “definitely” return on Monday as the Redblacks cleaned out their lockers.
After taking over as temporary head coach for the final four games of the 2022 season, Dyce was formally appointed head coach of the Redblacks in December of last year.
Burke remarked, “I’ve seen those things. When I started this process last year, I talked about one of the key things being leadership and developing a culture that has to happen here.” “I have observed that our players adhere to him and the standards he establishes for them, and I see those things.”
Burke stated that he thinks “we have a head coach who can take us in that direction” and that the team has to improve.
That is not to imply that other modifications won’t occur. Following Monday’s exit discussions with the players, Burke and Dyce will review the staff.
“Undoubtedly, we’re attempting to lay a foundation here for the first time this season,” Dyce remarked. “I think we have a solid foundation and are a better squad overall. We intend to build further upon the existing basis.
“We need to start building the first floor and the remainder of the house as soon as you lay the foundation.”
The Redblacks haven’t even come close to qualifying for the playoffs during the last four years. Since their last postseason trip in 2018, when they made it to the Grey Cup final, Ottawa has amassed a record of 14–54. They didn’t manage a single victory over an East Division opponent this year.
Not that they haven’t had some misfortune, though.
The Redblacks were without their starting quarterback for the second year in a row.
Before the 2022 season, Ottawa signed seasoned quarterback Jeremiah Masoli to a two-year deal; however, in the fourth game of that season, he had an injury that ended his career.
Masoli missed the first three games of this season, and Tyrie Adams replaced Nick Arbuckle in the second game after the rookie struggled early on.
Adams sustained a medial cruciate ligament injury that ended his season, but he still started and won the third game.
Masoli was prepared to play in the fourth game again, but his comeback was brief. The 35-year-old had a non-contact injury that turned out to be an Achilles rupture and was forced to leave the game after less than two complete quarters of play.
The Redblacks, who had a 1-3 record, went to Dustin Crum, a fourth-string quarterback. With a 3-3 record, he won his first two games, and Ottawa seemed to be turning the turnaround. Rather, the club ended the season with seven straight losses.
“Our goal is to leverage every accomplishment and progress further,” stated Dyce. “Undoubtedly, we did take a slight turn for the worse at that moment (3–3).”
Burke and Dyce both concur that consistency is necessary. The Redblacks rarely played with constant pressure for the full 60 minutes. In the last five minutes, far too many games were lost.
Dyce declared, “We’re weary of being the squad that fights a lot and fights hard.” “Victory is our goal; moral victories are not what we are here for.”
Burke stated that an assessment will take into account the reasons behind this team’s inability to step up when it matters most.
Burke stated, “In football, a game usually consists of five or six plays, and both this year and last year, those moments haven’t gone our way.” “There must be underlying causes, and we intend to investigate and find solutions to address those causes as best we can.”
The quarterbacks for Ottawa, excluding Arbuckle, are still under contract.
Masoli, who is recovering according to plan, stated that he feels as though he has something to show and that he intends to return in time for training camp.
“I am aware of my abilities,” he declared. “I am aware of our team’s potential. The city, the supporters, and this group are all eager for us to succeed, make a big statement this season, and produce a film of which we can be proud.”
Crum, on the other hand, gained his teammates’ respect for his dedication and work ethic.
Fullback Marco Dubois stated, “Given the last few years, the fact he kept healthy is huge.” “Despite being hurt and bruised, he goes to the gym the day after a game, and his knowledge of the game will only deepen with time.
“Considering what he was able to do with minimal preparation, I can only imagine what he could accomplish if he had a complete training camp to prepare.”
Among the players Ottawa will have to decide on is running back Devonte Williams, who amassed more than 1,000 yards rushing.
The contracts of defensive end Lorenzo Mauldin IV, Bryce Carter, and wide receivers Brandin Dandridge, Justin Howell, and Monshadrik (Money) Hunter are all up for renewal. Additionally, punter Richie Leone will be searching for a new deal.
