Q: It was a tough loss on the West Coast against B.C., but before we move forward, let’s get your take on the game.
Marcel: Well, on offence we had our challenges. Our protections weren’t very good. We were solid with our assignments, but we just didn’t rise to the challenge physically, and because of that we struggled. Defensively we did a lot of good things. I thought we played well. We gave up some points, but that was more of a byproduct of the short field we were giving B.C. Our defensive guys played hard and it resulted in forcing a couple turnovers, once in the end zone preventing a score. On special teams, we executed another fake kick, which is great. They covered kicks well and played with a lot of intensity and I think Nick kick the ball extremely well. I was happy with their performance, they played at a high speed, which we need from them.
Q: After a series of close games, followed by the game in B.C., how does the team respond this week?
Marcel: After a loss like that there is sometimes a bit of a tendency to have a let down, but the guys have bounced back well. They were confident today and spirited. They’re back out on the practice field and having fun, so that bodes well for us this week against Montreal.
Q: Will we see some of the practice squad players like Ernie Jackson, Adam Tafralis, Joe Bradley or Alan Zemaitis get a chance to play before the end of the year?
Marcel: There are certain players that we need to get look at, so we can decide if they can help our team get better. There is an opportunity for some of those guys to see playing time as we move forward, but it begins with showing us what they can do in practice. So well start introducing those players into our lineup subtly.
Q: What’s been the biggest positive for you since taking over the team?
Marcel: The players, without a doubt, and how they’ve responded to myself and the coaching staff. They’re a great group to work with and that’s been the most fun part, being able to work with these guys. They’ve made it very enjoyable for me.
Q: From your perspective, is it an advantage being a Canadian coach in the CFL?
Marcel: I can definitely say that it’s a lot of fun being from Canada and coaching here. American coaches come up and don’t really know anyone. They have careers and they meet people, then they leave and go back down to U.S. When you’re here and you’re family is here and this is where you’re from, it has a little different dynamic and feel to it. Last night I was watching
ESPN Classics, the 1984 Grey Cup Hamilton and Winnipeg and I remember watching that game when I was in high school and loving that Ticats team. So it’s interesting having these memories watching teams play and now you’re coaching one of them.
Q: How important is it for you to get that “interim” word off your title?
Marcel: I’m not even thinking about it. When I took this job, I didn’t take it hoping there was a carrot at the end of the stick. I took it to help the organization move forward and do the best we can with the rest of the season. So we’ll cross that bridge when we get to it.
Q: Your wife Julie is on the front of the Ticats.ca this week advertising women’s day. How has she reacted to you becoming head coach?
Marcel: (Laughs) She’s been very supportive. Once we got over the hump of her finding out in the media, she’s been real happy about it and very supportive.
Q: What’s the goal heading into the back-to-back games against Montreal?
Marcel: Montreal is one of the premiere teams in the CFL. Definitely one of the top three teams in the league right now, so it will be a challenge. The goal is to have our guys take the field composed, but to make sure they play with passion and continue to build on what we’ve done in practice. Our players are positive and I feel strongly that they’re going to rebound this week.
