The Montreal Alouettes earned a tough, defensive 25-18 victory over the Calgary Stampeders, with neither team’s offence crossing the goal line on the ground. Kabion Ento of the Alouettes made the lone touchdown via a pick-six, leading the Als to victory in a game heavily reliant on the teams’ kickers.
Results
Team
1
2
3
4
T
CGY
3
6
6
3
18
MTL
6
10
3
6
25
Game Overview
In a game that saw both offences kept largely at bay, the Alouettes’ defence and special teams played a key role in securing the win. The Stampeders got the first points of the game with a 50-yard kick from René Paredes, but back-to-back field goals from Montreal’s David Côté quickly put the Als in the lead.
An interception by Alouettes’ cornerback Kabion Ento, returned 53 yards for a touchdown, gave the Als a decisive 10-point lead. Despite a consistent Stampeders’ comeback via the boot of Paredes, the Als held firm, with Côté responding with field goals to keep the Stampeders at arm’s length.
Calgary Stampeders Performance
Quarterback Jake Maier threw for 256 yards for the Stampeders, but two interceptions hurt the team’s offensive efficiency. Despite the loss, the defensive effort was noteworthy, with Micah Awe leading the Stamps’ defence with eight tackles. Branden Dozier also made significant contributions with four tackles and a sack.
Reggie Begelton, with eight receptions for 102 yards, was the standout on the Stampeders’ offence, but the inability to reach the end zone ultimately cost them the game.
Montreal Alouettes Performance
The Alouettes, led by quarterback Cody Fajardo, didn’t generate a lot of yardage in the air, with Fajardo throwing for just 158 yards. Yet, their defence and special teams shone bright. Ento’s crucial pick-six was a game-defining moment, while Tyrice Beverette led the Als defence with six tackles and a special teams tackle. Bryce Notree also contributed significantly, with two tackles and a sack.
The Alouettes’ receivers had a modest game, with Kaion Julien-Grant leading the way with 71 yards on five receptions. William Stanback led the ground game with 86 yards, but the team could not find a rushing touchdown.
The clash between the Montreal Alouettes and Calgary Stampeders was a testament to the importance of defences and special teams in the CFL. Both teams failed to unlock their opponent’s defence, turning to their reliable kickers to keep the scoreboard ticking.
In the end, a single pick-six made the difference, encapsulating the hard-nosed nature of the contest. Despite a late surge, the Stampeders couldn’t overcome the Alouettes, who held on to their lead to seal the win.
Mark Perry is the founder and editor of CFL News Hub. A dedicated and experienced football analyst, he has been providing comprehensive coverage of the sport since 2018.
