The Ottawa Redblacks have now set a new record for the longest losing streak in the modern history of the CFL. Following their 33-21 defeat against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday night, the Redblacks have now lost 15 consecutive games, dating back to the previous season. This surpasses the previous record held by the Shreveport Pirates, who lost 14 games in a row in 1994.
Steve Daniel, a CFL historian and the league’s associate vice-president of football analytics and statistics, confirmed that Ottawa now holds the modern-day record for the longest losing streak. Disappointed fans, such as Jimmy Fata, expressed frustration at the team’s performance and the lack of clear reasons for the ongoing struggles.
The Redblacks’ losing streak is not just a modern record but also ranks as the third-longest in the entire CFL record book, which dates back to 1907. Another loss in the upcoming game against the Montreal Alouettes would tie them with the Hamilton Wildcats for the second spot, who endured a 16-game losing streak between 1948 and 1949.
According to Daniel, the evolution of the league post-World War II saw a professionalization of the sport, with teams becoming more competitive and paying players aboveboard. In contrast, earlier records were set during a time when football was strictly amateur, as in the case of the Ottawa Rough Riders and the Ottawa Senators.
Despite the challenges, the Redblacks are making efforts to rebuild their roster, particularly focusing on defense. Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie has implemented changes to improve the team’s performance, as seen in their recent game against the Blue Bombers.
Fan support remains crucial during tough times, with dedicated supporters like Fata emphasizing the importance of standing by the team through thick and thin. Despite the current struggles, fans are hopeful for a turnaround in the team’s fortunes in the future.
