MontrealAlouettes.com
CALGARY – As the Alouettes kick off their 2012 regular season tonight in Calgary (7:00 p.m. et – TSN, RDS, CJAD 800, 98,5 fm), all eyes will be on special teams and on the newly revamped defensive unit.
It was no secret during training camp that the Alouettes have a solid list of returners capable of carrying the load and taking it to the house on any given play.
“We are bigger, faster and probably have one of the best special teams’ units in recent memory,” explained head coach Marc Trestman. “Both Noel Devine and Trent Guy will see playing time and will certainly have their chance to prove themselves in this game.”
While the plan seems to keep both returners fresh by steadily rotating them on special teams, Trestman also seems adamant about applying that same philosophy to the defensive side of the ball.
“Everybody that made the trip to Calgary is expected to play,” revealed Trestman. “We’ll rotate guys and give every player the chance to see the field.”
Former Eskimo Rod Davis leads a re-tooled Alouettes defence that accounted for nine sacks in two preseason games this year.
“We are going to be 12 guys having fun and flying around the field,” beamed the 31-year-old Davis who gives Montreal an instant and significant upgrade at the linebacker position.
“As players, our only concern is getting after the opposing quarterback and disrupting plays. Whether we’re in a 3-4 defence or in a 4-3, the goal remains the same and always will: fly to the ball.”
While the defence has looked promising in the past few weeks, quarterback Anthony Calvillo believes the Alouettes offence is more capable of explosive plays than shown in the preseason.
“We fine-tuned our game plan heading into Calgary,” admitted the 39-year-old pivot. “Based on the pre-season tape we’ve watched on them, we know they are a talented group and we know they’re saving a few tricks for the regular season. We expect a battle against Calgary. But the one thing about our offence, is that we’re capable of elevating our play and competing against the top defences in the league.”
