Sherbrooke – The Montreal Alouettes took to Coulter Field on the campus of Bishop’s University Monday afternoon for a lone training session. After two whole weeks of tireless work during practices and meetings in preparation for a gruelling season ahead, training camp is nearing its conclusion, and the players closing in on the form the coaches expect.
On the good side of the nest
Several veteran players sat out of the first pre-season game against the Toronto, but will be seeing action on Thursday. Kyries Hebert, Chip Cox, Tyrell Sutton and Nik Lewis will all be making their season debuts against the Ottawa REDBLACKS. Also making their firsts starts are Darian Durant and Ernest Jackson. Not only is it the first chance the two marquee offseason acquisitions have to wear the Alouettes jersey during a game, but it also marks their first opportunity to play at Percival Molson Memorial Stadium as a member of the home team.
“I’m definitely excited to be in that atmosphere and to get the fans going,” says Jackson, who has played at McGill Stadium as a member of the B.C. Lions and the Ottawa REDBLACKS. “As a visitor, the fans were always going crazy, the atmosphere was off the Richter scale and it’s always fun to play there.”
Rapid Fire
The speed of Stef Logan was once again on display. During a one-on-one drill, the agile vet was able to create separation from a defensive-back to haul in a pass from Hugo Richard. Later, Logan and Darian Durant combined for a perfectly executed shuttle pass, with Logan springing free for a big gain… After going four for four on field goal attempts in Thursday’s preseason game, Boris Bede was dialled in at practice, nailing several long range attempts… The Alouettes’ two star running backs each had solid practice sessions. Tyrell Sutton turned on the afterburners and blew by the entire defence on a handoff from Vernon Adams Jr. Brandon Rutley also ran the ball effectively, slicing and dicing through defenders to gain yards… Right tackle Brian Simmons had a good performance when the offensive line squared off against the defensive line. The new addition to the Alouette lineup didn’t let anyone slip through… Linebacker Travis Hawkins laid out to break up a pass that looked destined to land in the arms of Eugene Lewis… Defensive back Jovon Johnson had the last word of the day when he intercepted a pass before the final whistle.
Upcoming schedule
Below is the schedule for the upcoming days.
Tuesday, June 13
2:45 p.m. – Practice
Wednesday, June 14
10:30 a.m. – Walkthrough on Bishop’s University’s Coulter Field
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
