Canadian QB Brandon Bridge impresses in 1st CFL start
Canadian quarterback, Brandon Bridge, a rookie with the Montreal Alouettes made his first career regular season CFL start on Sunday, November 8 — becoming the first Canadian-born quarterback to do so since 1996 and the 15th all-time.
The Mississauga, Ontario native was impressive in his debut, completing 21 of 30 passes for 220 yards and recording a pair of touchdowns through the air. Bridge saw action in the Alouettes’ week one game, but had to wait until the season finale to make his first regular season start.
“After the first game I was really waiting for my opportunity and it was taking so long”, Bridge told reporters following the Week 20 contest. “I was happy for the experience and proud of it.”
Despite Bridge’s strong performance, Montreal was unable to hold-off a Saskatchewan Roughriders squad who stormed back for the OT win, as both teams looked to head into the off-season on a high note.
“It felt good (to start) but quarterbacks are judged off wins and it doesn’t matter what you do (statistically) so I wish I could have finished the job”, he said.
With a strong performance now under his belt, the Junior National Team alum will continue to work on his craft this off-season and could be a trendsetter for aspiring Canadian CFL pivots.
Brandon Bridge
- Member of 2009 Junior National Team
- Played in 2010 International Bowl (IFAF World Team)
- College: South Alabama (2013-2014), Alcorn State (2010-2011)
- Attended 2015 NFL Draft combine
- Drafted in the 4th round (31 overall) by the Montreal Alouettes