SHERBROOKE – Montreal Alouettes players took back to Bishop’s University’s Coulter Field for the final day of back-to-back practices on Saturday morning. With the first cuts just around the corner, it was the last chance for many players to leave a good impression and showcase their abilities to the coaching staff as well as the player personnel department.
The two practices were played at full-throttle as the camaraderie felt throughout the camp so far between the players was replaced by a strong show of competitiveness.
Strong outing by defensive veterans
Cornerback Billy Parker should have his picture next to the word competitor in the dictionary and he has been acting as a true leader since the beginning of camp, handing out solid hits and giving receivers little room to manoeuver. He had one of his best days in camp on Saturday.
One name that has flown under the radar since the start of camp is that of veteran linebacker Chip Cox. That is however most likely due to the fact that the seasoned veteran always makes everything look so easy. Entering his tenth season, Cox continues to be a reference for his teammates. His defensive partner Kyries Hebert is also having a good camp. A day after pilfering a pass in practice, he continued to make his presence felt on defence. He remains a dangerous and versatile player on the field.
Lead by players such as John Bowman and Alan-Michael Cash, the defensive line hasn’t missed a beat. Whether in one-on-one situations or in game simulations, Anwar Stewart’s protégés remain effective, as they are constantly batting down passes and making their way to the quarterback. Opposing offensive lines are in for tough times when they face Montreal this season.
Rapid Fire
In his second camp with the Alouettes receiver Chandler Jones is doing everything in his power to remain on the Alouettes roster. After making a great catch on Wednesday against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, he continues to stand out, making catches day in and day out during camp. Saturday, he made quite the catch and was able to hold on to the ball even though he was hit by Chris Ackie… Brandon Bridge completed a beautiful 50-yard pass to receiver Mikhaïl Davidson… Kevin Glenn continues his good work, as he dissects the defence when he is in command of the defence. The veteran quarterback connected twice with receiver Kenny Stafford for majors as well as with B.J. Cunningham for a 45-yard touchdown… Defensive back Greg Henderson intercepted another pass Saturday morning. He seems to have started up a collection of them since the start of camp… Winston Venable, the Alouettes Most Outstanding Defensive Player in 2015, also stood out, as he intercepted a Kevin Glenn pass before returning it 25 yards… Defensive end Aaron Lavarias also performed well on Saturday, as he also registered an interception off of quarterback Brandon Bridge… Jerry Rice Jr. scored a touchdown after using his speed to get away from two defenders and head to the end zone following a brilliant pass from quarterback Rakeem Cato.
