The Edmonton Elks returned to winning form on Thursday, defeating the Ottawa Redblacks 40-17. Running back Justin Rankin played a significant role in the victory, scoring three touchdowns for the Elks. This win moves Edmonton ahead in the West Division standings.
Rankin recorded 107 yards on 14 carries, contributing two touchdowns on the ground. He also added three receptions for 43 yards and a touchdown. Quarterback Cody Fajardo completed 19 of 24 passes for 340 yards and two touchdowns.
Offensive Performance and Adaptations
Fajardo emphasized the team’s return to their preferred style of play, which involves running the ball and quick passes. He noted that the Redblacks’ defence presented challenges, but the Elks adapted effectively. Fajardo expressed pride in the offence’s strong finish.
Elks head coach Mark Kilam highlighted the team’s dedication in practice following their previous loss to the B.C. Lions. He commended the players for their perseverance, especially during a challenging third quarter where the team initially struggled to gain first downs.
The Elks opened the scoring with Rankin’s 19-yard touchdown run. Later in the second quarter, Elks kicker Vincent Blanchard made a field goal. Ottawa managed to score with a one-yard plunge from backup quarterback Bryson Barnes, bringing the score to 10-7. Edmonton then added two more field goals from Blanchard before halftime, establishing a 16-7 lead.
In the third quarter, Ottawa narrowed the deficit when quarterback Jake Maier connected with Ayden Eberhardt for a 21-yard touchdown pass. Fajardo responded in the fourth quarter with a four-yard touchdown pass to Kaion Julien-Grant. Ottawa’s Brett Lauther then kicked a field goal to make the score 23-17.
Rankin continued to make an impact in the fourth quarter, catching a pass from Fajardo and weaving 33 yards for another major. Maier was intercepted for the third time in Edmonton territory by Chelen Garnes, which led to another Rankin touchdown on a 31-yard run. Maier was intercepted a fourth time by Kordell Jackson, setting up an 11-yard field goal by Blanchard.
Maier acknowledged that the Redblacks failed to make enough plays in the fourth quarter, leading to desperate decisions that did not go their way. The Redblacks are still seeking their first win of the season and currently hold an 0-5 record.
Team Standings and Upcoming Games
The Elks, who have not reached the playoffs since 2019, now have a 4-1 record, placing them first in the West Division. This game marked their second home game of the 2026 season at Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium. The team has a strong record in their recent home games, winning five of their last six at the stadium since the 2025 season.
The Elks had previously faced the Redblacks in the opening week of the 2026 CFL season, securing a 29-21 victory at TD Place on June 6. Edmonton has won their last three encounters with Ottawa, including two wins in 2025. Kilam noted the quick turnaround between games, with only four days separating this match from their previous one against the Lions. He expressed confidence in his team’s leadership to prepare the players both mentally and physically.
Rookie linebacker Dariel Djabome, drafted third overall in the 2026 CFL Draft, made his second career CFL start in this game. In his first start, he tied for the team lead with seven defensive tackles and intercepted Nathan Rourke. Djabome, from Longueuil, Quebec, emphasized his focus on team performance over personal accolades.
Next, the Elks will host the B.C. Lions next Friday. The Redblacks are scheduled to welcome the Winnipeg Blue Bombers next Sunday.
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Source: sportsnet.ca
