Sherbrooke – The Montreal Alouettes were back on the practice field Saturday for the first time since their preseason game on Thursday night. The coaching staff put the players through a light workout during the morning session, before turning up the intensity in the afternoon at Bishop’s University’s Coulter Field.
It’s quarterback season!
The Alouettes’ defensive line has long been one of the most consistent and most imposing in the league. All signs point to the tradition continuing this season, with veterans who bring plenty of CFL experience like John Bowman and Keith Shologan joining strong pass rushers in Gabriel Knapton, Ray Drew and Jabar Westerman, as well as a young crop of players who are more than capable of making an impact. New arrivals Fabion Foote, Daniel Awoleke and former Atlanta Falcon Ivan McLennan have been impressing coaches and fans alike during training camp.
“The work ethic they have is phenomenal. From the youngest draft choice to the most experienced veteran, the guys have been great. I was really happy with our effort level in the preseason game”, said the team’s senior defensive assistant Greg Quick. “I think they did a wonderful job from that perspective. We have a few things we need to polish from a strategic standpoint, but tactically, I thought they were really sound.”
Rapid Fire
The sure-handed Nik Lewis made an impressive over the shoulder catch off a Jacory Harris pass. The seasoned receiver hung on and then ran for a big gain… Defensive end Ventril McMillan had a successful day at practice on Saturday. He was able to break through the offensive line and pressure the quarterback on a couple of occasions… During Offensive line/defensive line one-on-ones, Knapton easily blew by a guard for a sure sack… Stefan Logan’s speed was on display once more, as he took a handoff and broke through the secondary for a touchdown. The long-time return man was active both carrying and receiving the ball on Saturday… Tyree Hollins and Chris Ackie combined for an interception. Hollins deflected the pass, and Ackie dove to pick it off…
Transactions
The Alouettes completed a few transactions on the 14th day of camp. The team announced that they have added national defensive-back Mikaël Charland (6’04”, 216 lbs.) to the roster. The 25-year-old Gatineau, QC native played university football with the Concordia Stingers. The Ottawa REDBLACKS second round pick (16th overall) in 2016 played in 11 games with Ottawa last season. The Alouettes added two more players to the roster, as international receiver Eugene Lewis as well as international offensive lineman Kyler Kerbyson have joined the team. The club also released international defensive backs JaDerick Farrow and Aaron Sibley.
Upcoming schedule
Below is the schedule for the upcoming days.
Sunday, June 11
8:30 a.m. – Practice #1, followed by media availability on the field
3:00 p.m. – Practice #2 (no media availability)
Monday, June 12
2:45 p.m. – Practice, followed by media availability on the field
Tuesday, June 13
2:45 p.m. – Practice, followed by media availability on the field
Wednesday, June 14
10:30 a.m. – Walkthrough on natural grass field next to Champlain-Lennoxville Cegep, followed by media availability.
Thursday, June 15
7:30 p.m. – The Montreal Alouettes host the Ottawa REDBLACKS at Percival Molson Memorial Stadium (TSN, RDS, TSN690 and 98,5fm)
Friday, June 16
Day off
