Montreal Alouettes Thread

[R.J]

It's still early, but here is the QB depth chart from what I've seen on the field. #Als #CFL

1. Glenn
2. Bridge
3. Boyd
4. Adams
5. Cato

— Didier Orméjuste (@DidierRDS) May 30, 2016

Interesting. I've also seen a few say that Adams is the worst of the bunch; though adams being the new kid/project and traded for a 1st rounder he'll be given time and opportunity. I really don't see Cato sticking with this team - I'd also be surprised if Boyd is kept once Crompton is healthy.

[jerrym]

Als TC Day 1

Difficult choices to come
Saying that the Alouettes offence is filled with talented and dangerous players would be an understatement. The team’s receiving corps, comprised of established veterans and dynamic rookies stole the show during this first day of camp, lifting fans off their feet on numerous occasions.
Back in Montreal following a year with the Indianapolis Colts, Duron Carter set the bar high right off the bat, making a spectacular one-handed catch on a 50-yard pass from quarterback Rakeem Cato. He struck again a few moments later, hauling in another 50-yarder from Vernon Adams Jr. in the end zone. A few moments later, the Kevin Glenn-Sam Giguère tandem made some noise, when the Sherbrooke native scored a touchdown on a nice pass from the veteran pivot.
Rookie receiver Corbin Louks also scored points. The former Denver Bronco started off his 2016 training camp on the right foot with two great catches. Adams Jr. connected with him in the end zone on a 60-yard play.
Offensive coaches Anthony Calvillo and Jacques Chapdelaine most likely enjoyed what they saw from their protégés on this first day, but difficult decisions will need to be made in the near future.
Defensive Coordinator Noel Thorpe and his staff will also have tough decisions to make, as the veterans from their squad showed up in great shape, hoping to prevent the young guns from stealing their jobs. Dominique Ellis was responsible for the first interception of the day, diving to get his hand under a falling ball. Andrew Lue also pilfered a pass during the first practice.
The defensive line, now under Anwar Stewart’s tutelage, showed many promising signs on this first day, as they got to the quarterback in hurry on numerous occasions during simulated play. The defensive squad’s depth will without a doubt be one of the team’s strenghts in 2016.

http://en.montrealalouettes.com/2016...eport-day-1-2/

[jerrym]

Als TC Day 2

The perfect mentor
Entering his 16th CFL season, veteran quarterback Kevin Glenn is at his first training camp with the Alouettes, where he’s quickly become the leader of Anthony Calvillo’s offence. The stability within the coaching staff, coupled with the acquisitions made by the front office during the offseason seem to be paying immediate dividends.
Although we’re only two days into training camp, Glenn is making his presence felt both on and off the field. On the field, he seems to be in mid-season form, threading the needle to his receivers on several occasions. On the sidelines, Glenn is seen working closely with the younger quarterbacks, imparting his wisdom between plays. For the oldest brother of five, the quarterback’s leadership qualities have been evident throughout his illustrious career. ...
The secondary firing on all cylinders
Jovon Johnson was locked in throughout the day, drawing several reactions from the crowd thanks to his tight coverage. The former Ottawa REDBLACKS defensive back had 2 interceptions during simulated play, as well as multiple great plays on the ball in 1 on 1 drills. Despite his smaller stature, the 5’9, 180-pound defensive back stood out in a big way on Day 2 of training camp.
Johnson wasn’t the only defensive back who impressed at Coulter Field, as Mitchell White had 2 interceptions of his own in one on one drills. The first was a deep ball in which White made a leaping catch over Corbin Louks, and the second was a diving grab where he anticipated the comeback route thrown by Vernon Adams Jr.
The defensive backs weren’t the only defensive position excelling on Day 2 of camp. Veteran defensive end John Bowman and his crew got to the quarterback on multiple occasions, applying consistent pressure and getting their hands on several thrown balls during simulated play.
A learning period
After playing left tackle during the first day of training camp, Jacob Ruby made the transition over to right guard on Monday morning. Philip Blake filled in for Ruby at left tackle, as the coaching staff is looking to mix it up along the offensive line in order to experiment with different combinations. Flexibility along the offensive line is a little thing that can help certain players crack the roster during training camp.
“It’s only the second day of camp. We want to move guys around and see where they can play. If an injury occurs during the season, it’s better to find that out now than it is during the season,” said Alouettes General Manager and Head Coach, Jim Popp.
Rapid Fire
On the offensive side of the ball, wide receiver Mike Davis got open on numerous occasions due to his crisp route-running, allowing himself to reel in multiple targets… Jerry Rice Jr. also displayed his combination of quickness and catching ability, making several tough grabs throughout the day… Although Davis and Rice Jr. stood out at wide receiver, the catch of the day belonged to Mikhail Davidson, who made a diving, full-extension grab across the middle during simulated play. The first player to congratulate him was none other than S.J. Green who has made those types of catches for quite some time now… Rookie defensive back Victor Hampton also stood out on Monday as he pilfered two passes during skelly competition.
Transactions
Before taking the field, the Alouettes added cornerback Greg Henderson to the roster. The 23 year-old recently finished his college career as a member of the University of Colorado Buffaloes.

http://en.montrealalouettes.com/2016...eport-day-2-2/

[jerrym]

Chris Schultz believes the Als have good replacements for Josh Bourke. I'm not so sure they can do this with inexperienced players.

While nothing’s carved in stone — most certainly not following two days of training camp — Chris Schultz believes the Alouettes can compensate for the departure of offensive-tackle Josh Bourke. And, in assistant coach Kris Sweet, Schultz believes they have the man who’s capable of bringing out the most in what most certainly will be the inexperienced player who must attempt to replace Bourke.
“The coaching’s critical, and Sweet’s good. He pushes his guys hard. He’s a good technique coach. He can get the most out of his players. He yells a lot, but he’s very demonstrative in the way he educates his players,” said Schultz, a TSN commentator and former offensive tackle with the Dallas Cowboys and Toronto Argonauts over 12 seasons. “If the guys hang in there and buy into what he’s selling, they’re going to improve.”
Replacing left-tackle Bourke, who signed with the Argos last February as a free agent, figures to be easier said than done. Bourke spent nine seasons with the Als, was named the Canadian Football League’s outstanding lineman in 2011 and was a two-time league all-star.
The Als — and by extension Sweet, who coaches the offensive line — will be trying numerous scenarios throughout training camp — not only to see who can replace Bourke, but determine what other positions players can handle in the event of injuries.

On Sunday, when the Als opened camp at Bishop’s University, Jacob Ruby played left-tackle during both practices. Ruby had the position again Monday morning, but when the players returned following a brief respite,

Montreal has used an all-Canadian line for years, but has a pair of returning imports — Forrestal Hickman and Vincent Brown — available if necessary. Both were activated for the final game of the season against Saskatchewan. Ruby started for Bourke that afternoon against the Roughriders.

Schultz believes both Ruby and Blake are physically capable of playing the position — provided they concentrate on their own body mechanics. “The big thing to understand about the position — sometimes you get so wrapped up about your opponent and what he’s going to do,” Schultz explained. “You have to concentrate on your own mechanics. If you’re worried about his pass rush and spin move, his upfield, inside and power move, you’re living in anticipation. The battle is mental. “For a young guy, the battle’s against himself. If your technique and body positioning are good, if your hands and feet are always good — a nice wide base, and you maintain that, you’re going to be OK.”
While it’s too premature to determine which player has the inside track, Ruby can at least claim to be playing the position at college. Redshirted as a freshman, he was a four-year starter at the University of Richmond (Va.), a Division-IAA school. In the NCAA, it’s rare for any player, let alone a Canadian, to start four years. Ruby, a converted tight-end and former defensive-lineman, thrived on his athleticism. The Als selected the 6-foot-7, 315 pounder in the first round (eighth overall) in the 2015 Canadian college draft.

http://montrealgazette.com/sports/fo...says-hes-ready

[jerrym]

Rumours are that Cato is considered the fourth QB at the start of TC. He could end up being traded. On the other hand, Popp appears to be high on National Brandon Bridge.

His passport issues behind him, Rakeem Cato made it to Bishop’s University and was on the field Sunday as the Alouettes began training camp.
But much like last season, when he arrived at camp late, was an afterthought on the depth chart and ended up dressing for 11 games, the second-year quarterback appears to have tremendous odds stacked against him in his attempt to earn a roster spot.
“Every year’s going to be the same, whether I’m a starter or backup or seventh on the roster,” he said. “I’m going to compete and come out with positive energy … push the starter.
“Most definitely, I’m used to overcoming the odds. It’s fun.”
Cato denied he lost his passport as the Montreal Gazette reported. Instead, it was stolen, along with his backpack, while he was working out at a Miami high school. That aside, the Als engaged in recent trade talks concerning Cato — the news of which, he admitted, found its way to southern Florida. And, he stated emphatically, didn’t bother or upset him.
Nonetheless, it appears, at least following one day of workouts, Cato could be fourth on the team’s depth chart, behind Kevin Glenn, Canadian Brandon Bridge and even Tajh Boyd, who was on the Als’ practice roster late in the season but never played.
General manager and head coach Jim Popp denied Bridge, or any other quarterback for that matter, is the backup for now — although it’s known the organization is bullish on the non-import. Popp said the team could retain as many as five pivots, and definitely will carry four. Teams can dress three per game.
The Als won with Cato last season. He completed slightly more than 69 per cent of his passes, throwing for 2,167 yards. He had nine touchdowns and as many interceptions. Cato clearly was at his best in his first start, against Calgary, completing 20 of 25 for 241 yards and three touchdowns.
But then teams started to catch on to him. Cato appeared to struggle reading defences and continued to make glaring rookie mistakes, sometimes repeatedly.
“I’m just trying to find a spot and compete and try to earn my job, just like last year,” Cato said. “My job’s to push Kevin Glenn to the limit and make sure he becomes better; keep the coaches’ head scratching.”
Does Cato believe he’ll be given a fair chance to compete for a roster spot. That, he said, is out of his hands. “Last year, I wasn’t given a fair chance,” he charged. “I didn’t get one rep. The first one came in the pre-season. Reps mean nothing. When my number’s called, I have to make a play for the team.”
Meanwhile, Bridge played little for Montreal as a rookie, but displayed poise when given the opportunity under trying circumstances. He came off the bench in the season-opener, following injuries to Jonathan Crompton and Dan LeFevour, playing the second half against Ottawa. And then he didn’t play again until the finale, against Saskatchewan, without most of the veteran receivers. Nonetheless, Bridge went 21 of 30 for 220 yards and two touchdowns in defeat.
“I’m ready whenever the coaches think I’m ready,” said the 6-foot-5, 235 pounder, who played collegiately at South Alabama. “I think they see that I’m a big-time playmaker who can make plays with my feet. And I have a big, strong arm.”

http://montrealgazette.com/sports/fo...qb-roster-spot

[jerrym]

As always there are questions about Kevin Glenn.

Is Kevin Glenn the quarterback the Alouettes have determined can lead this team out of the wilderness, at least in the short term? Or is he simply the best of the lot they have at their immediate disposal until someone else emerges?
These are legitimate questions, based on the messages coming from general manager and head coach Jim Popp.
As training camp began with two practises Sunday afternoon at Bishop’s University under, at times, a somewhat steady sprinkle of rain, Glenn said he “most definitely” is the team’s quarterback. But on a conference call last week, and again Sunday, Popp reiterated it was Glenn’s job to lose.
Not exactly a ringing endorsement, it could be argued. Just as the argument could be made Glenn, who turns 37 on June 12 and is entering his 13th Canadian Football League season, deserves better.

http://montrealgazette.com/sports/fo...ttes-open-camp

[R.J]

http://montrealgazette.com/sports/fo...medium=twitter

Boulay won't be the last because of Popp's mismanagement.

[jerrym]

interview with Kevin Glenn on Day 3 of TC.

http://en.montrealalouettes.com/2016...h-kevin-glenn/

[jerrym]

Recap of Day 3 of TC:

http://en.montrealalouettes.com/2016...eport-day-3-2/

[jerrym]

With all the change in the last several years within the Als organization, the team is focusing on attaining stability this year.

http://montreal.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=881621

[jerrym]

What a catch by Kyle Graves at training camp! #AlsMTL #CFLTC pic.twitter.com/XwFKUM3kM3

— #AlsMTL (@MTLAlouettes) June 1, 2016

[jerrym]

Day 4 of Als TC:

In the trenches
Battles along the defensive and offensive lines are amongst the most intriguing to watch at camp in 2016. The depth on both sides of the line means that maximum effort is required in order to lock down a roster spot. The one-on-one drills gave way to some exciting and physical battles, which defensive ends John Bowman and Gabriel Knapton took full advantage of. The veterans looked to be in mid-season form on this fourth day of training camp, as they both beat their counterparts on numerous occasions. Alan-Michael Cash and newcomer Vaughn Martin also gave their offensive counterparts fits all morning, which made their defensive line coach Anwar Stewart very happy. ” Bowman and Knapton had a really good day today. Those guys look really good and they’re in great shape. They’re getting out there and they’re leading by example, and that’s what you want. The scouting department did a great job bringing in talent to push the starters, so I’m happy with what I’m seeing from my players this early into camp.” Michael Klassen and Jesse Joseph, a Laval native, also pulled their weight during practice this morning.
Rapid Fire
One of the nicer catches of the day came from an unexpected position, as fullback James Tuck reeled in a diving catch on a throw from quarterback Dante Djan. The lunging effort drew a loud reaction from his teammates… The catch of the day however belonged to Kyle Graves, who reached behind him with his left hand to tip the ball to himself and bring it in to his body despite the tight coverage by the cornerback in simulated play… Another receiver that stood out on Wednesday was Corbin Louks. The rookie receiver out of Nevada was consistently winning his battles and finishing plays, scoring a deep touchdown and making diving grabs all over the field… On the defensive side of the ball, Bear Woods anticipated and intercepted a Rakeem Cato pass, and proceeded to run it back with some “blocking” from his fellow defenders… Cornerback Greg Henderson made several great plays in coverage, intercepting a Brandon Bridge rollout and knocking down passes in 1 on 1 drills… Perhaps the most noticeable player on the defensive side of the ball today was Jovon Johnson, who intercepted two passes, the second of which was in stunning fashion. As the receiver bobbled a pass thrown behind him, Johnson simply took matters into his own hands and ripped the ball from the receiver, proceeding to take it to the house for six… National receiver George Johnson, who was drafted only a few weeks ago, stood out on Wednesday as he made a few nice catches, including a 40-yard reception off a precise Vernon Adams Jr. pass.

http://en.montrealalouettes.com/2016...eport-day-4-2/

[jerrym]

WR Mikail Davidson in action:

Wide receiver @mikhaildavidson at training camp.

Lookin’ good! #AlsMTL pic.twitter.com/gmVCInYolQ

— #AlsMTL (@MTLAlouettes) June 1, 2016

[jerrym]

A video interview with LB Winston Venable:

http://en.montrealalouettes.com/2016...nston-venable/

[jerrym]

NFL veteran DL Vaughn Martin, the first Canadian-trained undergraduate ever drafted by the NFL, is impressing the coaching staff at TC.

http://montrealgazette.com/sports/fo...what-he-can-do

[R.J]

NFL veteran DL Vaughn Martin, the first Canadian-trained undergraduate ever drafted by the NFL, is impressing the coaching staff at TC.

http://montrealgazette.com/sports/fo...what-he-can-do

Jim Popp, the Als’ general manager and head coach, got the last laugh in February, when Martin signed for two seasons. He’ll earn $175,000 in 2016.

That's a lot of money for a guy who hasn't played much football the last couple of years.

[jerrym]

“He’s like the cook and I’m the waiter,”@qterback5 on his relationship with @acalvillo13 ➡ https://t.co/2RXWx0gucM pic.twitter.com/QJlORZLmyn

— CFL (@CFL) June 2, 2016

[R.J]

#AlsMTL' centre @dominicpicard has announced his retirement. #CFL #LCF via @HerbZurkowsky1

— CFL News (@CFL_News) June 3, 2016

Surprised it took this long. He hasn't played well in the last few seasons.

[jerrym]

Day 6 of Als TC report includes an analysis of how 2015 draftees are doing, as well as information on Saturday's mock game.

2015 Draft: One year later
Year in and year out, the Alouettes scouting department works tirelessly to draft and groom the right players that will help the organization win games and remain competitive for years to come. Canadian talent is key in the CFL.
Despite the draft’s unpredictability, it seems as though the 2015 Canadian Draft is already paying dividends for the Alouettes, who are looking for their second-year players to fill in at key positions. Jacob Ruby is currently auditioning for a spot along the offensive line, where he’s been turning in a solid training camp performance and improving every day.
Linebackers Chris Ackie and Nicholas Shortill showed up to training camp with some added muscle to their respective frames, which they hope can help elevate their play. Selected 4th and 13th overall respectively, Ackie and Shortill are looking to fulfill their potential, as they learn from fellow star linebackers Bear Woods, Chip Cox, Winston Venable and Kyries Hebert. The young backers are currently key cogs of the Alouettes’ special teams units.
Brandon Bridge is also a second-year Canadian who has been turning heads since he entered the league. His imposing figure and strong arm have allowed him to have an impressive camp in 2016. The Alouettes’ 4th round draft pick (31st overall) in 2015 was a risk according to some analysts, but all signs point to yet another draft steal by general manager and head coach Jim Popp. Also among the Canadian draft picks enjoying early success is local wide receiver Mikhaïl Davidson. In one of the strongest wide receiver classes ever, Davidson has found a way to stand out, as he has been making spectacular plays all over the field, while also returning kicks. The quick rise of the Alouettes’ 2015 Canadian draft class is giving Montreal fans tons of hope and optimism for both the near future and further down the line. ...
Intrasquad game – the weekend is finally here!
The Alouettes will play their intrasquad game presented by Telus on Saturday morning from 9:00-11:00 AM at Bishop’s University’s Coulter Field. Entrance is free just as it has been throughout training camp, and it provides a great opportunity for sports fans in the Eastern Townships to watch high-quality professional football.

http://en.montrealalouettes.com/2016...eport-day-6-2/

[jerrym]

S J Green still looking good.

Tout semble si facile pour @SJ19_19SJ au camp d'entraînement ! #AlsMTL #CFLTC pic.twitter.com/e11R7RuDhC

— #AlsMTL (@MTLAlouettes) June 4, 2016