Montreal Alouettes’ LB Darnell Sankey: ‘There’s no such thing as a meaningless game’

Photo: Montreal Alouettes

The Montreal Alouettes have already clinched first place in the East Division but veteran linebacker Darnell Sankey believes there’s still plenty to play for.

“There is no such thing as a ‘meaningless game,'” Sankey posted to social media. “A lot of guys fighting for roster spots, not only for their current team but for their future teams as well. Remember, you are what you put on tape! Approach every game as a winner!”

The 30-year-old made the statement in response to a member of the media who referred to Montreal’s final game of the regular season against Winnipeg as “meaningless.” The B.C. Lions will have nothing to play for in the standings when they host the Alouettes on Saturday, though the same isn’t true for the Blue Bombers the following week as they’ve yet to clinch first place in the West Division.

Regardless, it appears Montreal remains committed to playing good football until the end of the regular season to stay sharp for the playoffs. The Alouettes defeated Ottawa by a score of 19-12 this past week despite having nothing to play for in the standings. The team’s defence held the Redblacks to 293 yards of net offence and forced two turnovers in front of a sold-out crowd at a rain-soaked Percival Molson Stadium.

Sankey has started all 16 games for Montreal at middle linebacker this season, recording 95 defensive tackles, three forced fumbles, one sack, and one interception.

The Alouettes (12-3-1) will visit the Lions (8-9) on Saturday, Oct. 19 with kickoff slated for 7:00 p.m. EDT.