Sherbrooke – The Montreal Alouettes were back at it on Thursday, holding two practices at Bishop’s University’s Coulter Field. The players handled the high-octane drills well and seem to be progressing nicely with the first preseason game only a week away.
Cohesion and protection
Some fierce position battles for coveted spots on the offensive line are being waged at camp. There were some question marks on the Alouettes’ line last season, but the exceptional depth in the trenches that has been on display through the first handful of workouts should put any doubts to rest. Linemen are already shower their cohesive force and will surely provide adequate protection for the passing game and running game.
Offensive line coach Paul Charbonneau made sure his players were sharp, putting them through reaction and agility drills. Management put extra emphasis on improving the offensive line in the offseason, as evidenced with Philippe Gagnon’s playing time. The team’s first round pick (second overall) in the 2016 draft, was a starter in each of the 18 games during his rookie campaign, a rare feat. Although he’s having a tremendous training camp thus far, he is practicing on the second unit, which is a clear indicator of the Alouettes’ depth on the line.
One of the most touted additions to the offensive line is left tackle Jovan Olafioye, who will have the task of protecting the quarterback’s blindside. Olafioye comes to camp with quite a resume, having been on an all-star team in each of his CFL seasons since his debut in 2010.
With Luc Brodeur-Jourdain missing the majority of the 2016 season because of an injury, Kristian Matte was moved to the centre position. Now back in his more natural guard position, the Concordia University graduate is slated for yet another great year.
“It’s five guys that have to work together – they must have great communication. If they don’t have great communication, there’s going to be slip-ups, and when someone slips-up on the offensive line, somebody slips through,” commented coach Charbonneau after practice Thursday afternoon.
Rapid Fire
The defensive-backs had a field day on Thursday. Jonathon Mincy showed off his athleticism, intercepting a pass that appeared to be sailing over everyone. Daryl Townsend and Tyree Hollins also chimed in with picks of their own. The ageless Ryan Philips jumped a route of an unsuspecting receiver and returned the ball all the way to the end zone for a pick-six…. Not to be outdone, Jacory Harris connected with Deandre Reaves for a big gain. Reaves had run a perfect route, making Harris’ job easy… The kick return units got a workout on Thursday, when Stef Logan stole the show. The seasoned returner took a kick all the way back to the house, thanks in part to some excellent blocking by his teammates in front of him.
Call to the Hall
Star defensive-end John Bowman was absent from practice on Thursday. However, the Alouettes’ all-time leader in sacks (112) had good reason to be missing out. The Wingate University alumnus is being inducted into the South Atlantic Conference Hall of Fame. The two-time Grey Cup champion and six-time East division all-star is well-deserving of the honour because of his remarkable collegiate career. His name is in the record books largely due to his memorable and dominant 2003 season. That year, he recorded 66 defensive tackles, 17 of them for losses and knocked down two passes. He led the conference with 15 sacks, and also forced two fumbles. The countless hours he has dedicated to Montreal community groups and organizations are also being highlighted by the Hall of Fame. Congratulations John!
Intra-squad game on Saturday!
The team will be playing its annual intra-squad game on Saturday, June 3 at 3:00 p.m. on Coulter Field at Bishop’s University (2600 Rue College, Sherbrooke, QC J1M 1Z7). Fans of the Alouettes are looking forward to this special day, as they’ll be able to meet the players and coaches of their favorite football team. Admission to the game is free for all.
Tomorrow
The 2017 Alouettes training camp continues on Friday, June 2, as the team will partake in a single practices on Bishop’s University’s Coulter Field at 2:45 p.m.
