Video: Maurice Leggett's 114-yard missed field goal return was one of the week's top plays

The Winnipeg Blue Bombers may have lost Friday night's game against the Ottawa Redblacks, but they produced one of the week's best highlights along the way (which is saying something, in a week full of great returns). That special play came early in the first quarter, with Ottawa already up 7-0 and going for a field goal that could increase their lead to 10 points. Kicker Brett Maher pulled his 51-yard attempt wide left, though, and then Bombers' defensive back Maurice Leggett did this:

That's a terrific 114-yard touchdown return from Leggett, and one that really shows off his ability to find holes. When he catches the ball nine seconds into the clip, Ottawa's team is already heading downfield to try and contain him. Many returners would take the ball around the right side here, hoping to outrun the Redblacks' cover guys outside, but they actually have a pretty good angle on him. Leggett recognizes that, fakes to the right (which puts those guys out of position) and then ducks across to the left, staying far enough back to avoid most of the tacklers and then breaking right through the middle, shaking off one tackle, getting a block and dodging two more would-be tacklers. He demonstrates plenty of speed and agility in the process, but it's the returning instincts that may be most impressive here. If he goes right at first or makes any of these cuts a fraction earlier or later, it could still be a big play, but it's unlikely it would have led to seven points.

This continues what's been an impressive year for Leggett. The American rookie out of Valdosta State has adjusted to the CFL well and become an important part of the Bombers' defence. Usually lining up at safety, he's done a good job in the defensive backfield, notching five interceptions and 50 tackles. He's also been effective on blitzes, recording two sacks, and while he hasn't yet had many opportunities as a returner, this certainly shows he can be skilled in that area too. Winnipeg's website profiled him ahead of Friday's game, and that move proved apt. His return wasn't enough for the Bombers Friday, as they wound up losing 42-20, but he may be a key figure for them down the stretch.