SHERBROOKE – Alouettes players took to the field for back-to-back practices on Wednesday morning. At this time next week, the team will be in Winnipeg to take on the Blue Bombers in their first preseason game. The intensity at practice was ramped up, as roster spots are still up for grabs and the stakes continue to be raised.
In the trenches
Battles along the defensive and offensive lines are amongst the most intriguing to watch at camp in 2016. The depth on both sides of the line means that maximum effort is required in order to lock down a roster spot. The one-on-one drills gave way to some exciting and physical battles, which defensive ends John Bowman and Gabriel Knapton took full advantage of. The veterans looked to be in mid-season form on this fourth day of training camp, as they both beat their counterparts on numerous occasions. Alan-Michael Cash and newcomer Vaughn Martin also gave their offensive counterparts fits all morning, which made their defensive line coach Anwar Stewart very happy. ” Bowman and Knapton had a really good day today. Those guys look really good and they’re in great shape. They’re getting out there and they’re leading by example, and that’s what you want. The scouting department did a great job bringing in talent to push the starters, so I’m happy with what I’m seeing from my players this early into camp.” Michael Klassen and Jesse Joseph, a Laval native, also pulled their weight during practice this morning.
Rapid Fire
One of the nicer catches of the day came from an unexpected position, as fullback James Tuck reeled in a diving catch on a throw from quarterback Dante Djan. The lunging effort drew a loud reaction from his teammates… The catch of the day however belonged to Kyle Graves, who reached behind him with his left hand to tip the ball to himself and bring it in to his body despite the tight coverage by the cornerback in simulated play… Another receiver that stood out on Wednesday was Corbin Louks. The rookie receiver out of Nevada was consistently winning his battles and finishing plays, scoring a deep touchdown and making diving grabs all over the field… On the defensive side of the ball, Bear Woods anticipated and intercepted a Rakeem Cato pass, and proceeded to run it back with some “blocking” from his fellow defenders… Cornerback Greg Henderson made several great plays in coverage, intercepting a Brandon Bridge rollout and knocking down passes in 1 on 1 drills… Perhaps the most noticeable player on the defensive side of the ball today was Jovon Johnson, who intercepted two passes, the second of which was in stunning fashion. As the receiver bobbled a pass thrown behind him, Johnson simply took matters into his own hands and ripped the ball from the receiver, proceeding to take it to the house for six… National receiver George Johnson, who was drafted only a few weeks ago, stood out on Wednesday as he made a few nice catches, including a 40-yard reception off a precise Vernon Adams Jr. pass.
An official visit
Led by local official André Proulx, a group of CFL referees made an appearance at practice this morning, addressing the team on some new rule changes before the 2016 season begins. The officials took advantage of their opportunity to warm up for opening kickoff as well. They will also be on site on Saturday, for the scrimmage.
Congrats Jerald!
Jerald Brown, the former Alouette and two-time Grey Cup champ with the club announced his retirement from pro football on Tuesday. During his career with Montreal, he amassed 286 tackles while knocking down 22 passes and making 18 interceptions. “Jerald was a good leader on our team. He was a very smart player and we wish him all the best in his second career,” said Alouettes General Manager and Head Coach Jim Popp.
Scrimmage on Saturday
The Alouettes will play a simulated game on Saturday, from 8:30 to 11:00 am at Bishop’s University’s Coulter Field. Fans are invited to attend and as always, attendance is free. The national anthem will be performed on the bag pipe.
Tomorrow
The 2016 Alouettes training camp continues tomorrow on Coulter Field, as the team will partake in two consecutive practices starting at 8:30 a.m.
