Winnipeg Blue Bombers defensive back Brandon Alexander doesn’t care what opposing players and teams think about his physical style between the white lines.
Alexander has dolled out bone-crunching hits from his safety spot all season long and punished offensive skill players.
“To be honest with you, I don’t care — whatever they’re saying about me in the locker room is what they’re saying about me in the locker room. We’re going to have to put our pads on Sunday and do the same thing,” Alexander said.
“As far as that specific position, I’m able to see more. I’m able to get a running head start to where I want to go, so I’m already coming down full speed — whatever happens after that happens.”
The physical safety has been a reliable last line of defence for the blue and gold ‘D’ that was the only unit to allow less than 200 points during the shortened 14-game regular season.
“I feel like it’s always important for me to be me. What that means: I’m full speed every single play,” Alexander said while preparing for the 108th Grey Cup against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
“If you watch me I’m always flying across the field, I feel like that’s the only way I know how to play is full speed. It won’t be anything less, if anything it will be more than 100, I’ll be out there full speed.”
The 2021 West Division all-star played an important leadership role in the revamped Bombers secondary while notching 36 tackles, two interceptions and one forced fumble as part of a defence that allowed a league-low 12.9 points per game.
“I appreciate Winnipeg for giving me the opportunity to come up here and let me be me, I feel like my rookie they allowed me to be me,” Alexander said. “I feel like I have to give my all on every single snap, that’s why I play the way I play.”
