The task will not be easy since the Champlain-Lennoxville Cougars will be the opponent for this provincial final played in Trois-Rivières. The regular season game ended 23 to 20 in favor of the CNDF during the third week of the regular calendar.
“It was a thrilling match that was decided at the very end. Both teams have not lost since that time. I expect a similar game where the small details will make the difference,” analyzes Dion with conviction.
The driver also believes that the Estrie team is very similar to his own team.
“We have similarities, that’s for sure. Offensively, both teams have a good balance between the ground game and the aerial game. Both defenses play very well as a unit. They have good players, but there aren’t really any superstars. I really believe that the two best teams face each other even if certain teams possibly had more talent.
Paul Alfred Kamden during the semi-final. (Roch Lambert, CNDF)
Porters in the spotlight
Dion also believes that an important aspect of the match will be which team will be able to establish its ground game. Both teams can count on top players to do so.
“Their carrier Jerry Momo is a special player. He is dangerous every time he touches the ball. He can score a touchdown at any time on a football field. We also have an excellent carrier in Paul Alfred Kamden. To give an idea, the two players combined for more than 180 yards rushing in the semi-final and they are the only two carriers in Quebec who received scholarships to play in the NCAA in D1.
Dion is also aware that he cannot mobilize his entire defensive staff to simply stop the Cougars’ ground game.
“That’s what makes Lennoxville a little different this season. Their aerial game is very effective. They have an excellent receiver in Alexandre Lacombe and their first-year quarterback Justin Royer performs like a veteran. It’s a good defensive headache.”
The CNDF eliminated the Cougars in their last playoff game in 2022.
(Caroline Grégoire/Archives Le Soleil)
Watch out for turnovers
One thing is certain, the CNDF cannot afford as many errors as in their match against the Vanier Cheetahs where they dropped the ball five times.
“What’s a little troubling is that the fumbles came primarily from our receivers. Our carriers protected the ball. Ball security was discussed all week in practice. We know that we will have to play our best game of the season to win.”
Canada
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