Smith throws three TDs as Als rout Ticats

Montreal (CP) — The Montreal Alouettes’ quarterback carousel has taken a promising turn with 2006 Heisman Trophy winner Troy Smith.

The former Ohio State star who only joined the Alouettes in August threw three touchdown passes in his first CFL start as Montreal downed the Hamilton Tiger-Cats 36-5 to tighten the race for playoff positions on Sunday afternoon.

“It’s been cool,” Smith said of his quick adaptation to 12-man football. “My teammates have helped me out tremendously.

“The adaptation is definitely still going on. I’m trying day in and day out to get things down pat. It’s been fun.”

The team announced this week that CFL all-time passing leader Anthony Calvillo, who has been out since August with a concussion, will not return this season. That made finding a starter to finish out the campaign and take Montreal into the playoffs has been a priority.

Tanner Marsh had a good stretch but then faltered, as did Josh Neiswander.

Now it is Smith’s turn, and he passed the first test by completing 17 of 35 passes for 247 yards, three TDs and no interceptions.

S.J. Green, with two, and Arland Bruce were on the receiving end of TD throws, while Tyrell Sutton ran one in. Sean Whyte had two field goals as Montreal won for the third time in four games.

The third-place Alouettes (7-9) are hoping to overtake Hamilton (8-8) for second place in the East Division and the right to play host to a playoff game. The teams meet again on Saturday in Guelph, Ont., with the winner taking the season series between the two clubs.

The Montreal defence held CFL offensive player of the week C.J. Gable to no yards on three carries and only 39 yards on six catches. It also limited Henry Burris to 106 passing yards before he was replaced by Dan LeFevour late in the third quarter.