The Winnipeg Blue Bombers’ bid for a third Grey Cup in five years ended in heartbreak as the Toronto Argonauts delivered a commanding 41-24 victory in the 111th Grey Cup.
Toronto’s victory was led by backup quarterback Nick Arbuckle, thrust into the spotlight after starter Chad Kelly sustained a leg injury in the Eastern Final.
Arbuckle rose to the occasion, throwing for 252 yards and two touchdowns in a poised performance that belied his backup status.
Winnipeg entered the game as favourites after an 11-7 regular season and a decisive Western Final win over the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Toronto, meanwhile, had gone 10-8 in the regular season and clawed through playoff victories against Ottawa and league-leading Montreal to earn their spot.
A game of setbacks and resilience
The Bombers faced adversity when quarterback Zach Collaros briefly exited the game in the third quarter with a cut to his throwing hand.
Forced to wear a glove—a first for the CFL star—Collaros struggled to regain form, throwing four interceptions, including two critical turnovers in the fourth quarter that sealed Winnipeg’s fate.
Toronto capitalized on Winnipeg’s missteps with precision. Arbuckle’s confidence under centre was evident as he orchestrated key drives, including a fourth-quarter touchdown pass to Dejon Brissett that gave the Argos a crucial 24-16 lead.
Momentum swings in Toronto's favour
Despite moments of brilliance, including a 49-yard connection between Collaros and Ontaria Wilson and a late Brady Oliveira touchdown run, the Bombers couldn’t sustain their momentum. Costly penalties, missed opportunities, Collaros' freak injury and the following turnovers undid their efforts.
Winnipeg’s special teams delivered a glimmer of hope with a blocked punt at the end of the third quarter, but a penalty negated the play, handing Toronto the ball and a fresh set of downs.
The Argos then drove the dagger deeper with a defensive clinic in the fourth, highlighted by Robert Priester’s interception returned for a touchdown and another pick by Wynton McManis that set up Toronto’s final score.
A historic night for Toronto
The Argos extended their remarkable record to eight consecutive Grey Cup wins in their last eight appearances, a testament to their ability to deliver in high-pressure games.
Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie secured his second Grey Cup victory in four seasons, solidifying his status as one of the CFL’s brightest coaching minds.
Rookie Ontaria Wilson led the Bombers’ receivers with 99 yards on five catches.
For Winnipeg, the loss might sting, but it also sets the stage for redemption with next year’s Grey Cup set to be hosted in their home city.