VANCOUVER, British Columbia — In a remarkable display of resilience and skill, backup quarterback Nick Arbuckle spearheaded the Toronto Argonauts to an unprecedented 19th Grey Cup title, throwing two crucial touchdown passes in the second half during a commanding 41-24 victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Sunday night at B.C. Place. This win not only sets a new record for the Argonauts but also reinforces their dominance in Canadian football history.
With starting quarterback Chad Kelly sidelined due to a broken ankle sustained in Toronto’s East championship victory against Montreal, Arbuckle was thrust into the spotlight. He completed an impressive 26 of 37 passes, amassing a total of 252 yards. This championship marks Toronto’s second triumph over Winnipeg in just three seasons, showcasing their growing rivalry.
Reflecting on his unexpected journey, Arbuckle, who was named the outstanding player of the game, remarked, “You couldn’t script this.” He expressed gratitude for the challenges he’s faced throughout his life and football career, attributing his success to divine intervention: “It’s God’s work.” His heartfelt acknowledgment of the unwavering support from his wife and teammates speaks volumes about the strength of his character and determination.
Toronto’s legacy in the Grey Cup remains unblemished, as they have triumphed in all of their last eight appearances since 1991. The Argonauts are now a perfect 8-0 against Winnipeg in Grey Cup matchups, with victories stretching back decades including titles in 1937, 1938, 1945, 1946, 1947, 1950, and 2022.
“Nick did that, he won us a dang championship, what else is there to say,” exclaimed Toronto running back Ka’Deem Carey, who contributed significantly with 79 rushing yards and a touchdown on 15 carries. Carey’s confidence in Arbuckle highlights the camaraderie and belief present within the Argonauts’ locker room, which was crucial to their success.
Making their fifth consecutive Grey Cup appearance, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers were hoping to reclaim their title after winning consecutive championships in 2019 and 2021, with the 2020 season having been canceled. Coach Mike O’Shea reflected on the season’s disappointment: “It’s still pretty raw… We just didn’t play our best football at the end,” emphasizing the emotional toll of not clinching the championship.
Arbuckle’s pivotal 17-yard touchdown pass to Dejon Brissett put Toronto ahead 24-16 with just 7:31 remaining in the game. Shortly after the ensuing kickoff, DaShaun Amos made a game-changing play by intercepting Zach Collaros’ pass and returning it to the Winnipeg 16-yard line. This set up a 14-yard field goal by Brian Hajrullahu, extending Toronto’s lead to 27-16 with 5:11 left on the clock.
To seal the victory, Robert Priester scored a touchdown with a 61-yard interception return, followed by Wynton McManis, who added another interception return of 58 yards to set up another touchdown, effectively shutting the door on Winnipeg’s comeback hopes and pushing the score to 41-16.
Collaros, who made history as the only player to start in five consecutive Grey Cups, struggled against Toronto’s defense, finishing with 15 completions on 30 attempts for 202 yards, accompanied by four interceptions. Meanwhile, Brady Oliveira, recognized as the league’s outstanding player and top Canadian this year, managed to run for 84 yards and scored a touchdown late in the game, providing a last-minute spark for the Blue Bombers.
The Argonauts took control with a 17-10 lead courtesy of Arbuckle’s 17-yard touchdown pass to Kevin Mital, which followed a timely fumble recovery by Fraser Sopik. Winnipeg briefly narrowed the gap to 17-13 with Sergio Castillo’s 40-yard field goal, but a blocked punt by Michael Ayers was rendered moot as Toronto still secured a first down due to a penalty. Winnipeg’s attempts to regain momentum ultimately fell short after Willie Jefferson intercepted Arbuckle’s pass, resulting in another field goal opportunity for Castillo.
In a celebratory pregame moment, Prince Harry made an appearance, publicly endorsing the upcoming Invictus Games set to take place in the region in February, adding an exciting celebrity twist to this already thrilling sporting event.
What inspired Nick Arbuckle to keep faith in himself while stepping into the starting quarterback role for the Argonauts?
**Interview with Nick Arbuckle: Toronto Argonauts’ Grey Cup Hero**
**Editor**: Nick, congratulations on leading the Toronto Argonauts to their 19th Grey Cup title! What a remarkable journey it has been for you, especially stepping in as a backup. How does it feel to be the outstanding player of the game?
**Nick Arbuckle**: Thank you so much! It feels surreal. You couldn’t script this. I always believed in myself and my abilities, but the support from my teammates and coaches made all the difference. Winning this championship together is what it’s all about.
**Editor**: You were thrust into a significant role after Chad Kelly’s injury. What was running through your mind when you found out you would be starting?
**Nick Arbuckle**: It was a mix of emotions—excitement and nerves. But I knew I had to step up and lead the team. I’ve faced challenges throughout my life and career, and those experiences prepared me for this moment. I just tried to stay focused and play my game.
**Editor**: You completed 26 of 37 passes for 252 yards and threw two key touchdown passes in the second half. Can you walk us through those critical moments in the game?
**Nick Arbuckle**: The second half was crucial. That 17-yard touchdown pass to Dejon Brissett was particularly special. We had been working hard all season, and being able to connect in that moment felt fantastic. It was all about executing the game plan and trusting my teammates to do their jobs.
**Editor**: It sounds like your teammates, like Ka’Deem Carey, had a lot of faith in you. How important was their support during this game?
**Nick Arbuckle**: Tremendously important. Ka’Deem and the rest of the guys really rallied behind me. It speaks volumes about our locker room culture. Everyone believed in each other, which is vital in high-pressure situations like the Grey Cup.
**Editor**: In addition to football, you mentioned in the post-game that this was God’s work. How has your faith influenced your journey?
**Nick Arbuckle**: My faith has been a constant in my life. I believe everything happens for a reason, and I’m grateful for the ups and downs that brought me here. It’s comforting to know that I have a purpose and that I’m not alone in this journey.
**Editor**: The Argonauts have a storied legacy in the Grey Cup, and you’ve now made history by bringing home the title again. What does this win mean for the franchise and its fans?
**Nick Arbuckle**: It means everything. This win adds to our legacy and shows the determination and talent of this team. We have such passionate fans, and I can’t wait to celebrate this victory with them. It’s special to know that we’ve made history together.
**Editor**: Looking forward, what’s next for you and the Argonauts?
**Nick Arbuckle**: Focus on improving and building on this success. The standard has been set, and we want to continue this momentum into next season. I’m excited for what lies ahead!
**Editor**: Thank you for your time, Nick, and congratulations again on your incredible performance and the Argonauts’ historic victory.
**Nick Arbuckle**: Thank you! I appreciate it. Go Argos!
