Shawn Lemon really likes Montreal. And the Alouettes are very happy to have him in their ranks. When the defensive end got his 100e career sack, Monday, against the Ottawa Rouge et Noir, it was the confirmation of a perfect marriage that neither knew they needed.
It was Lemon’s eighth sack in 11 games with the Alouettes, coming at the end of July. Without saying that he transformed the Alouettes’ defense – already pugnacious before he joined the group – he brings a dose of toughness that was a little lacking. His arrival also coincided with a four-game winning streak for the Birds, allowing them to arrive at mid-season with a 6-3 record.
“I am very happy to find myself within this great organization,” he humbly declared in the locker room after the Alouettes’ 29-3 victory on Monday. Everything happens for a reason and it was a perfect match for me to be here, as it was a perfect match for the Alouettes to have me join them. I love being around the guys in this locker room and I wouldn’t want to go to war with any other group. »
His historic bag — it only became the 13e to reach this plateau in the rich history of the Canadian League — also revived the Alouettes in this match.
With the score at 8-0 early in the third quarter, Lemon joined Dustin Crum behind his line of scrimmage. This play led to a punt by the Rouge et Noir, pushing the Alouettes’ attack back to its line of 8. Cody Fajardo then led his team to one of the great offensive sequences of the season, on 11 plays and 102 yards.
“I’m just grateful [d’avoir pu atteindre les 100 sacs], he said. I have experienced a lot of adversity during my career. I remember when I had six sacks, I was cut from the team. When I had 92 bags, in British Columbia, they also cut me. You must always believe in yourself, even when no one else does. »
“I am very happy to have a good entourage. My family who always encouraged me. My parents, who were here today, have always been my biggest fans. »
His father had also given him a warning before taking the road from Charleston, South Carolina.
“He did the same thing when I got my first scholarship to the University of Connecticut. He then told me: “I’m driving all this way to see you play a good game.” This week he said to me, “I’ve been driving all this time, you better collect your 100th bag!” I am very happy to have been able to achieve this in front of them. »
His teammates seemed just as happy for him. They had a t-shirt made with a photo of Wilt Chamberlain with a poster reading 100, taken after his historic NBA game, which they rushed to give to him immediately after the game. A similar poster also adorned his locker.
“It was an idea I had a few weeks ago,” Lemon said of the t-shirt. Austin Mack has a clothing company and it’s because of his artistic talent that I’m wearing this today. »
Lemon doesn’t take any credit for his on-field exploits. He spent much of his postgame interview praising defensive coordinator Noel Thorpe for his success.
“Noel predicted to me this week that I would get a sack on this play. He has been nothing short of incredible since I arrived here. He understands my skills and I am very happy to play under him. »
What cannot be taken away from Lemon, however, is his passion for the game and his perseverance.
” It’s incredible. Reaching 100 sacks is an important milestone in our league, said Jason Maas. To have played this long and to still be able to contribute as he does at this stage of his career, it demonstrates all his talent and dedication. I couldn’t be happier for him and proud of him. I am happy to count on a leader like him. »
Uguak takes up more and more space
On the other side of the defensive line, it is a green recruit who does a lot of work for Maas and Thorpe.
Lwal Uguak, first round pick (seventh overall) of the Alouettes in the last draft, is playing more and more with the confidence of a veteran.
His game improves from game to game, to the point that the Alouettes were able to release Jamal Davis II a few weeks ago.
“Uguak is improving from game to game and every rep he gets, he does better than the last,” said Maas, whose face lit up at the mention of the no 96 of the Alouettes. He always wants to learn and is such a fun guy to be around. »
“I’m more and more comfortable and it’s because of the confidence people have in me,” said Uguak. It’s very satisfying to receive all this confidence and I try to give back as much as possible to the coaches. »
“I know that starting the season as a rookie, I had to wait my turn and make my place because of the veterans. When I was given the opportunity to play a few reps, I was just trying to get the most out of it. I’m happy to do it every week. »
Uguak recorded his first career sack on Monday. Will he be the next 100-sack Alouette?
“I know I’ve only just started, but that’s the goal! “, he said with a big smile on his face.
One thing is certain, Lemon does not fail to advise his young teammate.
“He constantly gives me advice on how to make my way in the CFL. He’s been here so long and he sees the game in a different way. It helps me greatly. »