For 5 years, few in the CFL have understood how Adrian McPherson could be so patient, so content to sit behind Anthony Calvillo.  Then again, few realize he's proven his patience even beyond that time line in a battle against the NFL.

McPherson has been offered several out-of-court settlements in a legal dispute that goes back to his days with the New Orleans Saints when the Titan's mascot ran him over.   McPherson and his his lawyer sought $20-million in compensation.  

This is one QB who doesn't mind extending a play.

Blue Bombers coach Tim Burke, a former Als' defensive co-ordinator, was careful to avoid any potential tampering charges on the eve of the Winnipeg-Montreal game.   Asked if McPherson's start was in effect an audition before watchful Bombers' eyes, Burke replied: "that depends how he does."

"I feel like everybody's watching," says Calvillo's backup who will become a free agent February 1st if he doesn't re-sign before then with Montreal.  "My father always used to tell me 'every time you play a game there's someone that will see you play for the last time and someone that's never seen you play before.'"

"It's tough but I've learned so much...," admits McPherson.  "I've learned more in the last 5 years than I've learned since I started playing football.  Five years ago I thought I'd be playing 'next year'."

"I want those guys (his Alouette teammates) to believe in me.  I see how hard they work every day."

"If I don't play well tomorrow, free agency won't matter at all," says the strapping 6'3", 214-pounder with a touch of grey in his stubble. 

"That's wisdom.  Wisdom and a 2-year old daughter," he joked about evidence of his aging all over his face.

McPherson has never given up on himself, even if the NFL has.   T-Rac, the Tennessee Titans mascot injured him before a pre-season game six years ago and McPherson has refused to take the dismissive offers from the club to just go away.

If he can wait out Anthony Calvillo for a starting job, he can wait out the NFL for what he feels will be his measure of justice.