Montreal Alouettes beat Toronto as Jason Maas rests starters

In a column published by 3downnation.com, analysis examines the Montreal Alouettes closing out their Canadian Football League regular season with a 33-16 victory against the Toronto Argonauts, while questioning head coach Jason Maas’s decision to rest key offensive starters ahead of the postseason.

Jason Maas Rests Starters

Head coach Jason Maas and his coaching staff decided to rest offensive stars Davis Alexander, Tyson Philpot, and Tyler Snead during the season finale in Toronto. By the time this trio steps onto the field for the upcoming playoff match, they will have spent 26 days without game action. Maas stated earlier in the week that Alexander is built differently and that the seven practices he will get will be extremely valuable in getting him ready for the playoffs. However, the column argues that this choice carries considerable risk because a single playoff game leaves no room for early offensive rust.

Dustin Crum And Running Backs Answer The Call

Dustin Crum delivered a performance during his 30 minutes of action, completing 17-of-20 for 153 yards while demonstrating improved patience against zone coverage and adding a rushing touchdown. In the backfield, Stevie Scott III registered 68 yards on 10 carries, while Shomari Lawrence contributed 56 yards on 11 carries against the Argos’ B-team defence.

Special Teams And Roster Questions Ahead

Kicker Lewis Ward filled in for the injured Jose Maltos Diaz, but missed a routine field goal and didn’t seem to have his full power, though Maltos Diaz is expected to play in the East Final. Meanwhile, return specialist Mekhi Mews provided encouraging signs with explosive returns after a missed field goal and a punt.

November Seventh East Final Matchup

The Montreal Alouettes enter a bye week before hosting the East Final on November 7. Kickoff is slated for 1:00 p.m. EDT. Toronto will host either the Riders or the Bombers in the East Semi-Final to determine who advances to face Montreal.