Lions sign star offensive lineman Ben Archibald to a contract extension

VANCOUVER – The B.C. Lions Football Club have signed offensive tackle Ben Archibald to a contract extension.

Archibald, a four-time West Division all-star, enters his third season with the Lions in 2013. The Brigham Young grad was the CFL’s outstanding lineman award in 2010 with Calgary before signing with B.C. in 2011.

“Ben has been a steadying influence on our offensive line since joining us in 2011 and I’m pleased to have him sign an extension,” Lions general manager and vice-president of football operations Wally Buono said in a statement. “Our offence has enjoyed a resurgence over the past couple of seasons and the play of our offensive line has been integral to that success.”

Archibald has not missed a start in two seasons and co-anchors the Lions’ offensive line with fellow West Division all-star and 2012 outstanding lineman Jovan Olafioye.

The Lions surrendered a league-low 30 sacks in 2012, the second consecutive season the club has held down the No. 1 ranking.