The Canadian Press
MONTREAL — Rookie quarterback Matt Shiltz will make his first career CFL start for the Alouettes on Friday night, according to a report from Bill Beacon of The Canadian Press.
The Alouettes are also expected to get a good look at Antonio Pipkin, as they take on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in their 2017 season finale at Hamilton’s Tim Hortons Field.
Both the Ticats and Alouettes have been eliminated from post-season contention.
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Matthew Shiltz absorbs a tackle in a 2017 game vs. the Ticats (The Canadian Press)
Shiltz, 24, joined the Alouettes after starring for three years at the University of Butler, where he compiled 4,037 passing yards and 29 interceptions with only 13 interceptions. He also rushed for 857 yards and 13 touchdowns on the ground, including a 100-yard game in 2015.
This season, the 6-foot-2, 195-pound Illinois native has completed 28 of 45 passes for 289 yards and a touchdown (with one interception) in spot duty.
Also vying for a chance to return in 2018 is Pipkin, a former Division II quarterback with Tiffin University. The 22-year-old went undrafted in the NFL before signing with the Arizona Cardinals. The 6-foot-3, 225-pound pivot is known for his strong arm.
Friday’s contest provides Head Coach and General Manager Kavis Reed one last chance to evaluate talent before the off-season. Reed has made public his plans to return to a GM-only role, with the focus on hiring a new head coach.
The Alouettes have lost 10 straight games and will finish fourth in the East regardless of Friday’s result.
There’s been no word yet on the status of veteran quarterback Darian Durant, who exited Montreal’s Week 19 loss in Regina.
Shiltz will be the Alouettes’ 12th starting quarterback since Anthony Calvillo retired in 2013.
