The Alouettes’ offense had its best game of the season against Edmonton. She produced four touchdowns, including two on the ground. A balm on a heartbreaking defeat.
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A great introduction for Anthony Calvillo. He was calling the games for the first time since his return to the Montreal organization.
“I had no choice but to adapt with the playbook that was already in place,” Calvillo said. As for the dismissal, I was impressed with the reaction of the players in the locker room.
“They have the team and their teammates at heart. The transition was made easier by what Khari had built up in that locker room. I really believe it.
“On the other hand, we have to go on the field and perform. It’s our job and we do it to pay our bills.”
Since his promotion, he has received help from Luc Brodeur-Jourdain, André Bolduc and Mike Lionello.
“We are in the process of identifying our strengths and our areas for improvement,” added Calvillo. Our playbook has gone from 72 to 60 offensive patterns.
“I like it when you’re able to practice a game two or three times before using it in a game. We have a good foundation in place and we must continue in the same direction.”
A major absentee
We must not forget that the Alouettes will have to manage without their running back William Stanback until the playoffs. Barring a miracle of medicine.
The absence of number 31 is felt in the Alouettes’ backfield.
“Will reminds me of Mike Pringle in my day,” Calvillo said. Mike had the ball 25-30 times per game and everyone knew it. We had success.
“It’s the same with Will. Everyone knew he would touch the ball often. After his injury, we knew it would be a big adjustment.
Quebecer Christophe Normand believes the Alouettes didn’t just lose a running back.
“He’s a good player, but also a very vocal person on the pitch,” he said. He was talking loudly in the caucus. Sometimes he kicked our ass when things weren’t going so well.
“This year is different. There are fewer players who speak loudly in the caucus.
In the meantime, the Alouettes are managing with the carriers Jeshrun Antwi and Walter Fletcher. At the moment they have a limited number of keys.
On the other hand, for Calvillo’s offense to get consistent production, they will need a better contribution from them.