The Montreal Alouettes take on the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Saturday afternoon in a game that may or may not determine first place in the East Division. Regardless of the circumstances, it looks like franchise quarterback Davis Alexander will get the start and play the entire game.
“I see it and they told me I'm going to play the whole game,” Alexander told reporters Thursday afternoon. “If they decide to play me, I want to play the whole game. If they don't decide to play me, then that's fine. I believe in the coaches.”
The meaning of the game depends entirely on the outcome of the Hamilton-Ottawa game on Friday. A Tiger-Cats win would clinch the division, but a tie or Redblacks win would leave the door open for the Alouettes.
Alexander admitted that his coaches may change their minds and play only one half with him if Hamilton wins. However, it seems thatHead coach Jason Maas shares his quarterback's sentiments about the importance of the game, regardless of Friday's result.
“I've said it before: He's not a five-year veteran in terms of playing five seasons in a row. He needs to play, and he needs to play a lot – especially against an opponent we might face in the playoffs,” Maas insisted.
Alexander has missed 10 games this season due to injury, but boasts a perfect 7-0 record to start. He has now completed 158 of 218 passes for 2,024 yards, 10 touchdowns and three interceptions.
The Gig Harbor, Wash. native admits he needs more game action before the playoffs begin.
“I've only played seven games this year. We've played pretty well, but we still have a lot to do and that's the fun and scary part,” he said. “We also have to understand that nothing is guaranteed—we need to show up and get the job done.”
It seems that Alexander, like many veterans, will get a chance to play no matter what. Maas didn't go into detail, but he doesn't appear to have a Plan B. Any changes will be made during the game based on health rather than the significance of the game.
“I’ll tell you what, every one of the 45 guys who are going is playing,” Maas said. “That's my goal. If we take a guy out or do something different, it will be during the game. The 45 guys that show up will play. … Again, we want to keep our momentum and keep our style of play.”
The Alouettes (10-7) will face the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (9-8) at Princess Auto Stadium on Saturday. Kickoff is scheduled for 3:00 pm ET.
