By Jack Bedell,

MontrealAlouettes.com

It’s hard to know where to start with the Alouettes offence this season… There’s almost an embarrassment of riches.

Anthony Calvillo is on top in every meaningful passing category – most yards, most passing TDs, highest passer rating amongst starters; Avon Cobourne is in the mix for the lead in yards from scrimmage and rushing yards; and Kerry Watkins is tied for the lead in receiving touchdowns.

And then there’s Ben Cahoon heating up the last couple of tilts, Brian Bratton and Jamel Richardson emerging as deep threats, and a coaching staff that’s really outdoing itself putting together solid, innovative game plans.

But even with all that going for it this season, the one aspect of the Als’ offensive production that has me most excited is the play of the offensive line.

After spending the off-season listening to pundits tell them they’re too old and too ineffective for the team to be successful behind them, the guys on the Alouettes’ O-line have opened the 2008 season on fire.

The group’s been equally adept protecting A.C. and busting holes for Cobourne. And with all that time and space, the offence has been money.

Bryan Chiu, Scott Flory, Paul Lambert, Jeff Perrett, and Josh Bourke were really on top of their game against the Ticats last week.

Facing a Hamilton defence desperate to make plays, the O-line only surrendered one sack. Most importantly, though, they gave Cobourne plenty of room to work in the second half, and that allowed the team to close out the win with sustained drives down the stretch.

Even more impressive was the way Chiu and the boys hustled downfield to help teammates up after plays and to celebrate with them after scores. That shows a ton of camaraderie and team chemistry, and my bet is it will pay dividends for the Als down the line.

As they say, “It all starts up front.” So, here’s to the O-line.