Week Two Montreal Alouettes Preseason Thoughts

As the Montreal Alouettes prepare for their final preseason game against the Toronto Argonauts. Already the organization has rocked the CFL world by releasing Etienne Boulay, Diamond Ferri, and Mark Restelli.

Could there be more potential big name releases in the horizon? As I stated through the various shows on TSN 990, I believe that the bulk of the roster is set. However, on defense there is more uncertainty.

Transitioning from a 4-3 to a 3-4 base formation is easier said than done. It requires different size players to play in the front seven of the defense. If they do not have these elements it will be a difficult conversion to minimize any deficiencies in mastering this formation.

Even though the defense had tremendous success in their first outing against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in accumulating six sacks. I don't think they showed off the actual looks they will be throwing at opposing offenses this year.

The fans better brace themselves that there will be plenty of trial and error early on in the season until they're comfortable with the schemes.

Looking ahead for Tuesday afternoon's tilt:

I believe Anthony Calvillo and the first team offense will play the entire opening half. Already the team has lost receiver Brandon London for an undetermined time due to a concussion he suffered in their loss to the Blue Bombers. Head coach Marc Trestman should be cautious in trying to walk a fine line of not putting any of his key personnel in harm's way of severely getting injured.

I believe that if Adrian McPherson has another shaky outing, this could plant a seed into the minds of team management they might need to look at future options if he will not be the heir apparent to Calvillo.

I believe that if Noel Devine has another strong performance, he will cement himself as the compliment to starter Brandon Whitaker.

I believe the Alouettes still need identify who will be their short yardage running back. There is no issue on how much team speed they have at this position. But if Daharran Diedrick will be called upon again, they need to get him involved during Tuesday's game.

I believe the team's linebackers are far from being determined. Right now, defensive coordinator Jeff Reinebold needs to take these moving parts and have them settle down. With the release of Ferri, and Restelli, it seems the second level is slowly coming together.


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Listen to me every Sunday/Tuesday nights on Gamepoints, every Friday morning on The Midnight Snack, and various shows on TSN 990.


Photo credit: www.cbc.ca