The Montreal Alouettes’ season did not start as expected on Thursday at McMahon Stadium. In addition to losing 30-27 to the Calgary Stampeders, the Sparrows lost the services of William Stanback.
The star running back for the “Als” scored his first major of the season, but left the game shortly after. Bothered by a lower body injury, he was transported by cart off the field.
“Thank you everyone for your love and thoughts,” Stanback tweeted after the game was not over. I will be back soon, you can be sure of that.”
The Stampeders ran away with the victory in the final moments of the game. Kicker Rene Paredes kicked 38 yards to seal the match.
The Alouettes started the second half strong with a 10-point lead. However, they suffered a dry spell on offense in the second half of the game, not scoring a touchdown.
After having experienced a lackluster training camp, quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. was not reassuring at the start of the game. His first pass of the season was intercepted by Mike Rose, opening the door for the Stampeders. Moments later, Malik Henry scored the game’s first touchdown.
Adams eventually had 250 passing yards and a touchdown. He made many eyes widen by passing a major by the race by jumping over Dinoté Ruffin.
His vis-à-vis, Bo Levi Mitchell, suffered an interception and managed only one touchdown. He joined his receiver on 21 of his 34 stints (61.68%), a slightly better return than Adams (56.3%).
Ka’Deem Carey was the biggest contributor to the victory for his team, collecting two rushing touchdowns and 90 total yards.
Replacing Stanback, Jeshrun Antwi didn’t look bad. He notably managed a 70-yard run in the second quarter.
The Alouettes will be back at work next Thursday when they will face the Argonauts in Toronto.