Four key players will be missing for the Alouettes against the Elks, including Geoffrey Cantin-Arku

The Montreal Alouettes will face a major challenge on Saturday afternoon when they host the Edmonton Elks in a matchup between the top two teams in the Canadian Football League (CFL).

However, the Montreal team will enter this game with a significantly reshuffled defense due to several injuries.

Four key players will miss the game. Linebacker Geoffrey Cantin-Arku is still sidelined with an adductor injury, while defensive backs Najee Murray and Wesley Sutton continue to recover from head and calf injuries, respectively. Defensive lineman Mustafa Johnson is also forced to sit out due to a knee issue.

To fill these gaps, head coach Jason Maas will rely on the depth of his roster. Micah Awe will take over at middle linebacker, Faion Hicks will step in for Murray in the defensive backfield, and Decarius Hawthorne and Ty Anderson will split the responsibilities left vacant by Johnson. Meanwhile, David Perales is returning to action after being activated from the long-term injured reserve list and will replace T.J. Guy at defensive end.

Jason Maas Relying on His Team's Depth

Despite these numerous changes, Jason Maas remains confident. The Alouettes head coach believes that every player on his roster is ready to seize his chance when the opportunity arises. In his view, the team had an excellent week of practice, and the replacements possess the qualities needed to maintain the expected level of performance.

On offense, Montreal is in a much more favorable position, with no key players on the injured reserve list.

Saturday's matchup promises to be spectacular, as the Elks boast a 6-2 record and lead the West Division, while the Alouettes sit atop the East Division with an impressive 7-1 record. Edmonton remains the only team to have defeated Montreal this season, a win that came in overtime. Since that loss, the Alouettes have strung together five consecutive victories and will be looking to get revenge in front of their home crowd this time around.

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