Team West utilized a strong first half rushing attack as well as stout play defensively to knock off Team East 37-13 on Saturday afternoon at the 2017 Valero East-West Bowl hosted by Laval University. Below are a few players whose performances stood out on the field.
Noah Picton, QB, Regina (Team West) — The reigning Most Outstanding Player in the nation showcased his skills yet again on Saturday, going 15-of-20 for 228 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions and was named the Team West MVP. He also ran in a score on a well executed bootleg. Picton yet again demonstrated his ability to find holes in the opposition’s zone defence and made accurate and smart decisions all day.
Tyler Chow, RB, Saskatchewan (Team West) — Chow was tremendous in the first half for Team West, racking up 68 yards on just four carries, demonstrating his ability to find a seam and break away in space. His offensive line also did an excellent job opening up holes, led by tackle Mark Korte from Alberta. Chow was also a threat out of the backfield, recording four receptions for 40 yards.
Danny Nesbitt, LB, Regina (Team West) — Nesbitt was all over the field, recording 2.5 total tackles as well as a sack and an interception. He was a key reason for Team West’s success against the run and was also effective in pass coverage.
Jayden McKoy, HB, Manitoba (Team West) — McKoy was excellent in pass coverage all game long, and also recorded a spectacular over the should interception in the first half that he almost took to the house. The turnover shifted momentum to Team West’s side and they didn’t relinquish it for the remainder of the contest.
Guillaume Paquet, WR, Montreal (Team East) — Paquet was a late addition to Team East’s roster, but was easily their best offensive weapon. He led all players with 92 yards receiving on five receptions, including a 55-yard gain where he used his speed to break away from three defenders down the sideline.
Adam Kuntz, LB, StFX (Team East) — The numbers will show just one tackle on the day for Kuntz, however he was a disruptive force at linebacker — especially in the first half — for Team East, where he helped force a Team West fumble in the red zone after breaking through on a blitz.
