MontrealAlouettes.com
Montreal – The Montreal Alouettes made a number of key defensive acquisitions during the off-season and as the midway point of the 2011 season approaches, it appears as though a number of those moves have been paying off in dividends. Here is a look at some of the newest members of the Alouettes to have left their mark on the team thus far and who are showing no signs of slowing down as the Alouettes get set to embark on the second half of the season.
# 33 Dwight Anderson, Cornerback
Some of the Alouettes’ most heated battles in recent years have involved then-Calgary-Stampeder Dwight Anderson on the opposing side of the ball. In his three years with the Stamps, the colourful Anderson recorded 16 regular-season tackles and one interception against Montreal’s high-octane offence. Anderson, now an Alouette, was one of the most sought-after free agents during the off-season, and with good reason. He has already forced opposing teams to rethink their offensive strategies when facing the Montreal D, making his presence felt by delivering big hits on receivers and is currently third among his teammates in defensive tackles with 26.
The University of South Dakota product, who has made a name for himself through his ability to cover the best receivers in the league, seems to have adopted a rather physical style of play with his new team. While the shut-down cornerback is still searching for his first interception in his new uniform, he continues to excel in the passing game and at stopping the run, having also recorded his first career CFL sack with the Alouettes. Anderson is currently in his fifth CFL season.
Defensive tackles: 26
Interceptions: 0
Sacks: 1
Forced fumbles: 0
# 29 Kitwana Jones, Defensive End
Kitwana Jones, who had to fight for his spot on the team at training camp this year, did not have to wait very long to get the nod of approval from his coaching staff following his dominant play on special teams early in the season. Jones leads the team in special teams tackles with 9 and has forced two fumbles while playing at defensive end. He is projected to surpass his personal best 17 special teams tackles this season. He has a rare combination of size and speed and his impact has been monumental for the Alouettes.
Jones, who played defensive end and linebacker while with Saskatchewan in 2007, in turn helping the Riders win a Grey Cup Championship, has formed a close bond with the defensive unit, most notably with teammate Dwight Anderson.
Defensive tackles: 4
Special teams tackles: 9
Sacks: 0
Forced fumbles: 2
# 24 Jeff Hecht, Safety
Jeff Hecht flew under the radar at training camp this year, despite a solid outing in his two pre-season contests. His teammates however, including fellow Canadian Éric Deslauriers, saw potential in the 25-year old Edmonton-native and knew that the rookie would help solidify the team’s defence once called upon. Hecht saw the playing field mainly on special teams, accounting for five tackles, but his young CFL career took flight after defensive-back Jerald Brown fractured his right ankle in the season opener forcing Hecht into the fray. The Saint Mary’s product proved himself well following that early-season adversity and has managed to earn himself a starting position – at least until Étienne Boulay returns to the lineup.
Defensive tackles: 10
Special teams tackles: 5
Interceptions: 0
Forced fumbles: 0
Although all of the aforementioned newcomers have fared well early, it will surely be most interesting to see how they perform down the stretch.
Currently enjoying their bye week, the Alouettes will be back in action Saturday, August 27, when they visit the Calgary Stampeders at McMahon Stadium.
