It’s not the primary objective of the Montreal Alouettes’ 2024 mission, but it’s certainly a secondary objective that was checked off the list of coach Jason Maas and his players when the team officially qualified for the Canadian Football League playoffs.
The Alouettes (10-1) achieved the feat so early in the season without even playing, as they were enjoying their second week off of the season. The results of the four games on the bill ensure that Montreal will not finish lower than third in the East, and will not fall victim to the crossover rule.
It’s been a long time since the Alouettes qualified for the playoffs this early in the season. Maas, however, pointed out that it’s not an end in itself, and reiterated that the organization’s eyes are turned toward Friday’s game against the BC Lions (6-6).
Moreover, for Maas and his troops, the new objective is now to secure the title of section champion and a bye in the first round of the playoffs, feats that the Alouettes have not achieved since 2012.
Reinforcements?
The Alouettes could perhaps benefit from reinforcements for this duel against the Lions.
Indeed, linebacker Tyrrell Richards and wide receiver Tyler Snead were at training on Wednesday at Hébert Stadium in Saint-Léonard.
If their names are still on the six-game injured list as of this writing, both players could be available for Friday’s game.
Receiver Keion Julien-Grant also took part in a few reps during Wednesday’s session, but a return to play seems a little less imminent in his case.
Finally, receiver Austin Mack gave everyone a scare by leaving practice early.
After battling a defensive back to catch a pass, Mack uncharacteristically landed on his left ankle, which took the impact badly on the ground.
The receiver tried to shake off the pain, but he eventually retreated to the locker room. When he came out, he was no longer wearing his helmet and left shoe. The Alouettes’ athletic therapists quickly wrapped an ice pack around his sore ankle.
Mack was no longer carrying the bag when he met the media, and he assured that he would be at his post against the Lions.