Nathan Rourke powered the B.C. Lions to a 36-18 win over Montreal with 382 yards and four touchdowns, bringing the Lions back to .500 on the season
Rourke Sparks Explosive Offensive Performance
Quarterback Nathan Rourke delivered a masterclass on Saturday night at B.C. Place, throwing for 382 yards and four touchdowns to lead the B.C. Lions to a 36-18 victory over the Montreal Alouettes. The win evened the Lions’ record at 5-5, giving them renewed momentum as they push deeper into the CFL season.
Key Playmakers Deliver Under Pressure
Keon Hatcher shined with 11 catches for 156 yards and two touchdowns, while Justin McInnis and Stanley Berryhill added majors of their own. Veteran kicker Sean Whyte contributed three field goals and three converts, ensuring steady scoring throughout. Montreal’s lone touchdown came late in the game when third-string quarterback James Morgan connected with Tyler Snead.
Injuries Continue to Hamper Montreal
The Alouettes, also sitting at 5-5, entered the contest already depleted at quarterback. Starter Davis Alexander and backup Caleb Evans were sidelined, forcing Morgan into action after Evans was injured early. Despite Morgan’s 211 passing yards, Montreal’s offence sputtered, relying heavily on kicker Jose Maltos Diaz, who nailed four field goals.
Turning Point Came Before Halftime
B.C. set the tone late in the second quarter with a six-play, 70-yard drive capped by a Rourke touchdown strike to McInnis. From there, the Lions controlled the pace, building a 16-9 halftime lead before pulling away in the second half with back-to-back touchdown drives that showcased Rourke’s accuracy and the Lions’ explosive playbook.
Defensive Stand Completes the Statement Win
The Lions’ defence proved just as decisive, recording three sacks and limiting Montreal to field goals until the closing minutes. Garry Peters anchored the secondary with seven tackles and two key pass breakups, while Mica Awe’s interception on a two-point attempt sealed Montreal’s fate.
What’s Next for Both Teams
With the victory, B.C. improves its record against Montreal to 6-0 over the last three seasons. The Lions now prepare for a pivotal matchup against the Toronto Argonauts on August 23. Montreal, reeling from quarterback woes, will host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on August 21 in what could define their playoff trajectory.
This article is original and written specifically for Surreyspeak.com
