Tyrice Beverette’s defensive play has bothered the Montreal Alouettes’ opponents since the start of the Canadian Football League (CFL) season.
The linebacker made 17 tackles, a record for the Alouettes, who are still undefeated in three games this season. The 6-foot, 203-pound athlete added three special teams tackles, a sack and an interception in addition to forcing two fumbles.
“Those are our standards,” Beverette said. “We know the impact you can have when you disrupt the opposing quarterback and you can get the ball back for your offense.”
“We focus on certain aspects and it shows because, every week, in one way or another, we create turnarounds.”
Beverette, 29, was an Eastern All-Star last season with 89 tackles, 20 special teams tackles, seven sacks and two defensive touchdowns. After tackling 10 opponents in the Alouettes’ 38-17 win over the Toronto Argonauts in the Eastern Conference final, the New Jersey native tackled seven in the Alouettes’ 28-24 Grey Cup triumph over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
The Alouettes’ defensive unit leads the circuit in points allowed on offense (15 per game), offensive touchdowns conceded (four in total), net offensive yards allowed (319.7) and turnovers caused (10 ). She is tied for first place with the Edmonton Elks with eight sacks.
The Sparrows have also won their last 11 meetings including the end of the last campaign. Their last loss was on September 15, against the Argonauts.
“Bev is the best weakside linebacker in this league, an all-star and a Gray Cup champion last season for a reason,” said Kenny Kim of Summit Athletes, who manages Beverette’s career. Tyrice is a humble and soft-spoken person, but between the white lines his game speaks volumes and he always raises the bar higher.
“I expect him to be one of the most dominant players in the league again this season. »
The Alouettes will visit the Argonauts (2-0) Friday evening. Beverette said the players’ focus was on this week’s game, not the winning streak.
Beverette began his CFL career with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats (2019-2021), playing in 22 season games. Since signing a contract with the Alouettes, he has played in 39 consecutive season games.
“Honestly, it’s the environment…they let me go out there and be myself,” Beverette said. This is also the group I play with, there are several guys in the locker room who are capable of making plays and who could be on the all-star team.
“The system of play also suits me, I prefer to be physical, look for the ball and play in a disciplined way. You don’t try to do too much, but do something that will help your team win. »
Beverette also had good words for head coach Jason Maas.
Early in his head coaching career in Edmonton, the highly competitive Maas was prone to animated outbursts on the sidelines. In his second campaign at the helm of the Alouettes, Maas remains a motivated and passionate coach. But he managed to suppress the angry outbursts.
“He sets a good example and everything he preaches, he also applies to himself,” Beverette said. It’s natural that guys want to follow him because of the person he is. Seeing him take responsibility makes us respect him even more, because when it is time for us to hold ourselves accountable, he provides an excellent example.
“He’s always looking for excellence and the players feed off that. »
