(Trois-Rivières) The Montreal Alouettes have the privilege of being able to count on one of the most productive running backs in Canadian football in William Stanback. Finding a player as motivated as him at the team’s training camp is mission impossible.
The good news for the Als is that he arrived in Trois-Rivières lighter and in better shape. The bad news for the rest of the league is that he intends to pick up where he left off in 2021.
That year, he finished the season ranked first in the Canadian Football League in rushing yards. He had even been in the running for the Tour’s MVP award.
However, it was impossible for him to capitalize in the following season. In the inaugural game against the Calgary Stampeders in June, he badly injured his left ankle. It even required an operation.
The 28-year-old returned to action in October. “I worked so hard last season to try to get back before the playoffs. I had that on my mind all the time,” he said, slapping the back of his right hand into his left palm.
In retrospect, he admits to having found the period of rehabilitation rather painful. Especially because he was far from his family. “I felt like I was on my own. At the time, I did not have my wife and child with me in Montreal. They arrived on October 8. It was hard to be alone. »
The feeling of having let down his teammates had also invaded him: “It was hard to sit in my living room and watch the guys go to war every weekend. That’s why I wanted to come back for the playoffs. Even though I wasn’t 100%, I knew it could make a difference. »
This difference, he can make it when he is in full possession of his means. Powerful and intelligent ball carrier, Stanback took control. He showed up in Mauricie ten pounds lighter.
He showed up swinging the scale at 232 lbs. He hopes to maintain a weight of 228 lbs during the campaign.
The American also emphasized another aspect of his game this offseason. “I worked a lot on my receptions. I never had trouble catching the ball, but I wanted to work on my coordination. I want the team to trust me when the ball is in my hands. »
This improved version of an already well-established machine appeals to new head coach Jason Maas. Beyond the tangible effects on the pitch, the desire to improve that Stanback has shown is for him a great proof of resilience and fighting spirit.
“I expect great things. He seems to be in great shape. […] He worked hard to get back to his normal weight. He is motivated. He is ready to play. We’ve told him about our plans for him and I think he’s excited to get started,” Maas said at a press briefing.
In 2021, and even in 2019, Stanback was one of the most feared running backs on the league. His absence for most of 2022 may have obscured how much he can change the outcome of a game when the ball is tucked between his bicep and his chest.
“I want to be able to show all my talent. I want to prove to everyone that I’m healed from this ankle injury, that I’m officially back and at the same level I’ve been before. »
He is excited at the idea of ​​playing in an offensive system where the ground game will be recommended. With a mobile quarterback and favorable elements within the offensive line, Stanback’s contribution could be even more significant.
“The goal this year is to win the East and see who we can face in the West. I know this team could go all the way,” he said excitedly.
Plus, his family will be by his side from start to finish. Added to the new offensive system and the fact that his former teammate Tyrell Sutton has become the running backs coach, Maas has only one piece of advice for fans and other players in the league: “Keep it in.” eye ! »