Calgary Stampeders quarterback Vernon Adams throws the football during first half CFL football action against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in Calgary, Thursday, July 3, 2025.
The Calgary Stampeders ended the Winnipeg Blue Bombers' perfect run in a commanding fashion on Thursday night. Quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. led the charge with two touchdown passes, marking his first scores through the air as a Stampeder in a dominant 37-16 victory at McMahon Stadium.
Adams Shines Bright Under Calgary Skies
Adams, who joined Calgary from the B.C. Lions last November, finally broke his touchdown drought. He connected with Clark Barnes for a 43-yard score on the opening drive. Later, he hit Damien Alford with an 11-yard pass — Alford's first-ever CFL touchdown.
The quarterback finished the night completing 13 of 18 passes for 222 yards. Most importantly, he stayed turnover-free, showing poise and control.
Calgary Defense Steals the Show
Though Adams led a sharp offensive unit, the Calgary defense was arguably the true star. Damon Webb and Derrick Moncrief both returned interceptions for touchdowns. Moncrief’s 70-yard pick-six early in the fourth quarter sealed the Blue Bombers’ fate.
Winnipeg's quarterback, Zach Collaros, faced relentless pressure and a tight Calgary secondary. He threw for 288 yards and a late touchdown but was intercepted twice, both costing his team dearly.
Offensive Boost and Smart Execution
Dedrick Mills added to the scoreboard with a rushing touchdown, while kicker Rene Paredes added five points with accurate boots. Punter Mark Vassett chipped in with a single, completing a balanced performance by all three units.
Calgary struck early and often. They built a massive 29-6 lead by halftime, leaving the Bombers scrambling. Jalen Philpot’s 68-yard catch and run in the second quarter was a highlight, putting Mills in position to finish with a short-yardage touchdown.
Winnipeg's Offense Falls Flat
Winnipeg, coming off a perfect start to the season, looked out of rhythm. The offense was plagued by missed opportunities, turnovers, and poor execution. Collaros and his go-to target Dalton Schoen connected only four times out of ten attempts.
The Bombers’ only touchdown came late — a four-yard pass to Jerreth Sterns with just two and a half minutes left in the game. Kicker Sergio Castillo was their most consistent contributor, hitting field goals from 19, 21, and 29 yards.
Oliveira’s Quiet Return
Reigning CFL Most Outstanding Player Brady Oliveira returned from injury but made little impact. He gained only 61 yards on 13 carries, clearly still shaking off rust after missing two games with a shoulder issue.
Stampede Bowl Lives Up to Its Name
The Stampede Bowl — timed to coincide with the Calgary Stampede kickoff — lived up to its billing as a high-energy contest. The matchup featured the league’s two top defensive teams, but only one truly showed up.
Calgary’s aggressive, disciplined defense and efficient offense outclassed the Bombers from start to finish. The crowd of 22,485 roared as the Stampeders improved to 3-1 on the season, handing Winnipeg their first loss.
Looking Ahead
Both teams now share the same record at 3-1. But this performance gives Calgary a huge confidence boost moving forward. With Adams finding rhythm and the defense clicking, the Stampeders are quickly becoming a serious Grey Cup contender.
The Blue Bombers, meanwhile, must regroup and fix their offensive woes before their next outing. Mistakes cost them dearly in Calgary — and in a competitive CFL season, they can’t afford many more.
