The Montreal Alouettes are guaranteed a place in the playoffs in 2023, but that doesn’t mean everything is swimming in oil for the Sparrows.
After 15 games and a record of 8-7, here’s what’s going well and what’s worrying the Als:
• Also read: The Alouettes qualify for the CFL playoffs
• Also read: “Flash” Dequoy in a new reality
The defense is in control
Coordinator Noel Thorpe’s unit has regularly found a way to perform well since hostilities began in 2023. The Alouettes’ defense has allowed an average of 23.20 points per game this year, which is the fourth-best mark in the Canadian Football League (CFL). The defense also shone with 20 interceptions and 17 recoveries after fumbles. If the saying that defense wins championships is true, the Alouettes are in the car.
The emergence of Marc-Antoine Dequoy
The 2023 season will be dominated by safety Marc-Antoine Dequoy’s rise to CFL stardom. In his third year as a professional, the Quebecer is dominating! The University of Montreal Carabins product ranks second on the Ambrosie Circuit in interceptions, having made five of them. Dequoy is also tied for defensive touchdowns with two touchdowns, including a 108-yarder last Saturday against the Ottawa Rouge et Noir. He is also only two players behind in forced fumbles. The 29-year-old athlete is characterized by his speed and is now feared by all opposing attacks.
Not easy for the lines
General manager Danny Maciocia constantly says that a football game is won on the line. Let’s say this is an aspect that the Sparrows need to improve if they want to be more successful. The offensive line has allowed 51 sacks since the start of the season. Only the Rouge et Noir performed less well. On the defensive line side, the Alouettes players only attacked the opposing quarterback behind the line of scrimmage 31 times. This is the worst performance in the entire CFL.
Difficulties at home
The Alouettes staff is satisfied with their team’s qualification for the playoffs, but reiterated that they do not want to stop there, with the aim of achieving at least one game without tomorrow. The House of Representatives. However, the Als have to find a way to be better in front of their fans. So far, they have a negative record of 3-4 at Percival Molson Stadium. Two of the last three games of the regular season will also be played there, including next Monday’s game against Rouge et Noir.