CFL's stars shine bright

by Campbell Blake
November 24, 2001 - Canadian Football League (CFL)

by Campbell Blake

Friday night was a time to celebrate for five players who simply had outstanding 2001 seasons in the Canadian Football League. For three outstanding Blue Bombers, this is what they hope will be the start of a successful weekend, with a Grey Cup championship on Sunday being the conclusion of it all.

Having already been named to the 2001 CFL All Star team, Winnipeg quarterback Khari Jones was looking to add another achievement to what has already been a successful season for him and the Blue Bombers. While a Grey Cup championship is the ultimate goal for Jones and his Blue Bombers team-mates, Friday was Jones's night to shine, as he was awarded with the 2001 CFL Most Outstanding Player Award. Having been the league's leading passer with 4,545 yards along with guiding the Blue Bombers to a CFL best 14-4 record, he seemed destined to win this coveted trophy for the first time in his career.

"This is surreal, that's the word I have been using lately," said Jones. "I would like to thank my team, because without my team this would not be possible. The offensive line protected me, and my receivers made me look good with big plays."

On the defensive side of the ball, Hamilton's Joe Montford was given the nod as the most outstanding player on defence over the most outstanding rookie recipient, Barrin Davis of the B.C. Lions. Montford, a three-time recipient of the award, led the CFL in sacks for the fourth straight year with 19. He also made 63 defensive tackles on the year.

"This award is a great honour, but it does not make up for not being in the Grey Cup," said Montford. "It is really frustrating to have such a great season, only to fall short of making the Grey Cup with the chance to win it."

In only his third season in the CFL, Dave Mudge has risen to the top of his profession. Having dominated the war on the line all season long, Mudge beat out Calgary veteran Jay McNeil for the most outstanding offensive lineman award.

Having lost out to Montford in the race to be named most outstanding player on defence, B.C. Lion Barrin Simpson did not leave the proceedings empty-handed. After a stellar season in which he led the CFL with 115 defensive tackles, Simpson was named the league's most outstanding rookie over Winnipeg's Charles Roberts.

In other awards, Blue Bomber Doug Brown took home the Most Outstanding Canadian Player award. Brown had a great season on the D-Line for Winnipeg, topping the team with seven sacks along with recording 32 tackles. Brown was also named to his first CFL All Star team this past season.

The CFL Players Association presented their two awards for the 2001 season. Rick Walters of the Edmonton Eskimos was present with the Tom Pate Memorial Award for his outstanding dedication on and off the field, while Charles Roberts, the runner up for the most outstanding rookie award, went home with the John Argo Award for his outstanding play on special teams.

Friday night was an unforgettable evening for these honoured men, as they were presented with awards that put them at the top of their profession. For the three Winnipeg Blue Bombers who took home some of the hardware, this weekend will not be considered a successful one if they have to leave Montreal without the Grey Cup in hand.

Canadian Football League Stories from November 24, 2001

• CFL's stars shine bright - OSC Original by Campbell Blake
• Jones becomes CFL's biggest star - OSC Original by Campbell Blake

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