Allen named best in East
Argo QB faces Holmes for top CFLer Three other Boatmen in final balloting
Damon Allen has accomplished so much in his stellar 21- year career, it’s somewhat surprising he’s never been a finalist for the CFL’s outstanding player award. But that streak came to an end yesterday when the Argo quarterback emerged as the East nominee in that category, while Saskatchewan Roughriders kick returner Corey Holmes represents the West.
“I’m having the time of my life,” Allen said, referring to his nomination, his magnificent season and the fact the Argos are playing in the Nov. 20 East Division final in a bid to defend their Grey Cup title.
Allen is one of four Argos in the running for the awards, voted by selected member of the Football Reporters of Canada. Winners will be announced Nov. 24 at the annual awards banquet during Grey Cup week festivities in Vancouver.
Allen has so many credits to his name — the CFL’s all- time passing leader, four- time Grey Cup winner and two- time Grey Cup MVP among them — but the outstanding player nomination has eluded him.
Allen said there have been many talented players during his career, making the selection of nominees a challenge. But this season, he could not be denied.
In leading the Argos to an 11- 7 record that enabled them to clinch first in the East and earn a bye to the division final, Allen racked up 5,082 passing yards, the first time he’s reached the 5,000- yard plateau in his career. He completed 352 of 549 passes ( 64.1 per cent) and was second in the league for passing efficiency behind B. C.’ s Dave Dickenson). The last Argo to win the outstanding player award was Doug Flutie in 1997.
Allen, 42, said one key to his success this season has been being able to dress for all of the Argos’ games. He only missed part of one due to injury, and sat out the last regular- season game to rest up for the playoffs.
Last season, he missed several weeks after suffering a broken leg. He also praised the “ great personnel’’ around him, adding that he’s thrilled Argo linebackers Michael Fletcher ( outstanding defensive player) and Kevin Eiben ( outstanding Canadian) and kicker/ punter Noel Prefontaine ( special teams) were also nominated in the East.
“ It’s an awesome honour,” said Fletcher, who finished fifth in the league in tackles with 87. He is the first member of the Argos nominated in the defensive category since 1982 finalist Zac Henderson.