Sherbrooke – The Montreal Alouettes returned to Bishop’s University’s Coulter Field on Monday for the second day of training camp ahead of the 2017 season. Jacques Chapdelaine’s men had a full plate, as they participated in two training sessions and numerous meetings during this busy day.
Like a Swiss Army knife
Putting it lightly, Darian Durant looks in good form ahead of the upcoming season. Alouettes’ general manager Kavis Reed worked hard during the offseason to acquire offensive weapons to help the seasoned field general. The grizzled veterans mixed-in with some exciting rookies will give the fans something to cheer about this season!
Ernest Jackson was one of the Alouettes’ most anticipated arrivals during the offseason, and he has already emerged as a leader of the team’s receiving corps. The man who caught the Grey Cup-winning touchdown last season made it clear that he is in it to win it during the first two days of camp. The sure-handed all-star caught every pass that the Montreal quarterbacks threw his way; making some difficult plays look very easy.
Earlier in their respective careers, Jackson and Durant both developed under the tutelage of Jacques Chapdelaine, and according to the wide receiver, the outlook for this season is bright. “It’s been two great days and I’m really enjoying it. Jacques is still Jacques. You know he’s going to be stern with everything he does, but he’s going to respect us and treat us properly.”
When it comes to the running game, the Alouettes can hang their hat on one of the CFL’s most dynamic duos again this season. Veterans Tyrell Sutton and Brandon Rutley have both excelled since camp opened. Coach André Bolduc will oversee the running backs this season, and he must be thrilled with the talent he has at his disposal. Sutton and Rutley stood out during their reps, showing their power and agility to break tackles and create running room.
Some more good news for Alouette fans: Nik Lewis is ageless! The robust slotback brought energy to the practices on Monday, and was in on every ball thrown his way.
The performance of exhilarating receiver Tiquan Underwood has certainly not flown under the radar, and it was another strong day for the former New England Patriot. He is becoming more and more consistent during the practices, and this consistency could force the coaches’ hand when important roster decisions will have to be made.
Rapid Fire
At the age of 33, linebacker Chip Cox isn’t slowing down. Now entering his 11th training camp with the Alouettes, the ball hawk intercepted a nearly perfect pass from Darian Durant and returned it for a touchdown… Receiver Seydou Jr. Haidara made a couple of nice plays on the second day. He caught a pass and made not one, but two defenders miss on his way to the endzone… The play of the day belonged to B.J. Cunningham, who caught a Durant pass while falling backwards along the sideline in an incredible display of athleticism. His teammates reacted appropriately, giving Cunningham a nice ovation… Linebacker Frédéric Plesius was all over the field on Monday. The Laval Rouge & Or alum knocked down a pass and forced a fumble during simulated play…Defensive back Greg Henderson stood out in the secondary. Henderson broke up multiple plays that came his way, and had an interception to his name.
Tomorrow
The 2017 Alouettes training camp continues on Tuesday, May 30, as the team will partake in a single practices on Bishop’s University’s Coulter Field at 2:45 p.m.
