Tomorrow, the Alouettes will go up against the Tiger-Cats at Tim Hortons Field in Hamilton. The coaching staff spent the week studying the Tiger-Cats for the upcoming game. Here’s a summary of their observations.
An offence that performs
According to Alouettes defensive coordinator Noel Thorpe, the Tiger-Cats offence has to be closely watched throughout the game. “Hamilton is led by their quarterback Zach Collaros, who has returned after being sidelined by injury. He is really back to right where he left off before he got injured last year. He’s doing an excellent job of distributing the ball to his talented receiving corps. With Luke Tasker, Andy Fantuz, Chad Owens, Terrence Toliver and also Brandon Banks, their offensive unit possesses a lot of speed and talent,” Thorpe said.
And even though the Tiger-Cats aerial attack is a force to be reckoned with, Thorpe also is impressed by Hamilton’s ground game. “We can’t forget running back C.J. Gable, who does great work protecting the quarterback. He’s also a prime target for Zach, and he does very good work running the ball. As well, their offensive line did a good job against Toronto, allowing them to rack up rushing yards,” the defensive coordinator said.
An innovative defence
Alouettes offensive coordinator Anthony Calvillo believes that the Tiger-Cats’ defence is very different from that of the B.C. Lions, the team the Als faced last week. “Orlondo Steinauer, the Tiger-Cats defensive coordinator, will give us some real challenges by using different defensive looks, and they aren’t the norm. They also have excellent defensive backs, and, from my perspective, the core of their defence revolves around their defensive line,” Calvillo said.
The two best special teams units go head-to-head
Asked about the Tiger-Cats’ special teams units, Alouettes special teams coach Kavis Reed said the Als have their work cut out for them heading into the game. “It will be a huge challenge! We are facing one of the best ball returners in league history in Brandon Banks. He has a very supportive team out in front of him. He has three touchdowns already this season, and we’re going to have to do some really good work in order to keep him contained.” Reed said.
Even though Brandon Banks is one of the best returners in the league, Reed gives accolades to his own returner, Stefan Logan, as well. “We also have one of the best returners in the league in Stefan Logan. We have to make sure that he’s given the opportunity to run the field and gives us excellent field position,” the special teams coach said.
Don’t miss the Alouettes taking on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Friday, September 16 at 7:00 p.m. on TSN and TSN690.
