April 1, 2018

REDBLACKS set to showcase new-look defence

By Dennis St. Pierre

When it comes to defence, the REDBLACKS are in the midst of forming a new identity.

From bringing in new defensive coordinator Noel Thorpe, to the off-season signings of Kyries Hebert, Josh Johnson, Loucheiz Purifoy and several other shut-down specialists, Ottawa looks to bring consistency on defence in 2018.

“We had an identity last year but this season were in change mode on defence. It’s not just going to be everything brand new. We are going to take the new stuff that Noel brings to the table but also have continuity from what we’ve done in the past, because we’ve done a lot of good things on defence here,” said REDBLACKS Head Coach Rick Campbell, who introduced his 2018 coaching staff to the media on Monday. “But I think we can take it to another level. Mark Nelson (linebacker coach) has been a defensive coordinator, Noel has and so have I. So we have some guys here with some good thoughts and we want to bring them all to the table and go from there.”

Spending the last five seasons with the Montreal Alouettes as their defensive coordinator and assistant head coach, Thorpe will begin his 15 CFL campaign with the REDBLACKS in 2018.

“He’s a smart coach which is good for the defence. He brings a different type of energy as well as different huddle calls. Things like that are a good way to change things up and kind of keep us all on our toes,” said Campbell on what Thorpe brings to the defensive side of the ball.

The REDBLACKS open up the 2018 CFL season with a Thursday night clash with the Saskatchewan Roughriders at TD Place on June 21, and for Campbell and his crew, “it’s all about making sure the offensive staff and defensive staff are on the same page.”

A big part of the off-season for the REDBLACKS defensive staff and players is finding ways to put pressure on opposing team’s quarterbacks. Newly acquired defensive lineman, A.C Leonard, will certainly help in that department.

“Leonard is big, tall and he’s able to rush the passer which is key. It’s a big luxury on defense to be able to send pressure to keep the oppositions offense off balance,” said Campbell.

When asked about all of the off-season acquisitions made by the REDBLACKS, Campbell is certain the team is entering the new season stronger than ever, “I think we got better.”