By Richard Obrand,
MontrealAlouettes.com

Montreal – It comes as sort of a relief for fans of the Montreal Alouettes… The Als’ high-octane offence of the past is back.

And then some.

Though the Als are still in the very early stages of the 2008 CFL campaign, in their two games to date, their offence has been borderline terrifying.

Under the guidance head coach Marc Trestman, known as a guru of the passing game, the Alouettes are among the leaders in almost every offensive category.

As a unit, the offence is currently tops in first downs (67), most offensive yards (991), most points scored (71), most touchdowns scored (8) and most touchdown passes (6).

“(Trestman’s) so specific with everything,” said quarterback Anthony Calvillo. “He’s such a perfectionist that even the ball has to be a certain way.

“He keeps things fresh, it’s new and exciting.”

The new offensive system put into place by Trestman & Co., seems to have given Calvillo a breath of fresh air. After saying he seriously contemplated retirement following last season, the 15-year veteran looks reborn.

Known league-wide for his arm, it’s his legs that seem to be drawing most of the attention towards the star passer.

Calvillo currently leads all quarterbacks in rushing yards with 80, averaging 10 yards per carry – more than half what he accomplished all last year.

“I’m always running scared,” he said, jokingly. “Whenever I take off, it’s not planned.”

His arm is just as good.

After two weeks, he leads all pivots in completion percentage (72.8 per cent) and touchdown passes with six. He is also second in yards with 665.

“He’s just tremendous,” said one of Calvillo’s favourite targets, Kerry Watkins. “He leads by example and we’re all more than satisfied with his results so far.”

Watkins is another Alouette atop the CFL stats list, and he and Calvillo are not alone.

The speedy fifth-year receiver leads the league in touchdown receptions, while running back Avon Cobourne is first in total receptions with 16. Next in line for most receptions? Another Alouette, receiver Danny Desriveaux.

“The new system allows (Cobourne) to excel,” said Calvillo. “He’s been working hard since the start of training camp and it’s starting to show.”

Trestman agreed with his pivot.

“He’s working hard every day,” the coach said. “His work ethic is really serving him well so far this season.”

While it seems a bit unusual to see a running back leading a receiving category, Watkins isn’t surprised.

“Avon’s been busting his butt all year; he’s one of those guys who just shows up and works hard,” said Watkins. “I’m not shocked at all.”

If it truly is the new offensive system that’s enabling the Alouettes to perform at such a high level, Trestman sees otherwise.

“It’s all about my players,” he said. “We’ve been tested by two very good football teams, and we’re going to be tested again Thursday night.”

The Alouettes host the Calgary Stampeders this Thursday night at 7 p.m. (RDS, TSN, CKAC SPORTS, CJAD, CHOM). Call 514-871-2255 for tickets.