Elks dominate Week 6 awards
The Edmonton Elks saw significant recognition in the Week 6 awards, particularly for their offensive and defensive performances. Running back Justin Rankin was named Offensive Player of the Week after a strong showing against the Redblacks. Rankin rushed 14 times for 107 yards and two touchdowns, adding three catches for 43 yards and another score. After just five games, he has accumulated 513 rushing yards and 297 receiving yards, positioning him to potentially become the first CFL player to achieve 1,000 yards rushing and receiving in a single season.
Defensive back Kordell Jackson of the Elks earned Defensive Player of the Week honours. The defender recorded three defensive tackles, two interceptions, and two pass knockdowns against Ottawa. His two interceptions marked the first such game in his three-year CFL career. The Elks’ defence contributed to a 40-17 win, improving their record to 4-1. Defensive Coordinator J.C. Sherritt was also recognized as Coach of the Week, as the Elks’ defence allowed only 337 net yards and forced four turnovers, returning to the top spot in the CFL for yards allowed per play.
Running back Javon Leake also made a notable return for the Elks, gaining 85 yards against Ottawa. His performance, which included carries up the middle, suggests a more dangerous rushing attack for Edmonton, making it challenging for opposing teams to game plan.
Bombers and Alouettes highlight special teams and breakout talent
Winnipeg Blue Bombers kick returner Trey Vaval was named Special Teams Player of the Week. Despite a fumble, Vaval responded by returning a missed field goal 129 yards for a touchdown, setting a new franchise record. He finished the game with 332 return yards on 11 attempts. The return of Dru Brown to the Blue Bombers was also highlighted as a significant move, with Brown leading his team to a 30-21 win over Toronto in his first start back in Winnipeg. Defensive lineman Willie Jefferson, at 35 years old, also demonstrated his continued impact, contributing to a stalled drive by the Argonauts that ultimately led to Vaval’s record-setting return.
For the Montreal Alouettes, defensive lineman David Perales was recognized as the Breakout Player of the Week. In his first career start, Perales recorded one defensive tackle, one sack, and one pass knockdown. His knockdown of Vernon Adams Jr.’s pass with 15 seconds left sealed the game for Montreal, suggesting he will likely remain in the starting lineup. Receiver Tyson Philpot also had the Best Play of the Week with a diving touchdown catch, part of an exceptional start to the season where he has recorded 45 catches for 719 yards and four touchdowns. Philpot’s current pace could see him challenge the single-season receiving yards record of 2,036 yards set by Allen Pitts in 1994.
Saskatchewan’s offensive line and Week 6 game analysis
The Saskatchewan Roughriders’ offensive line, consisting of Payton Collins, Zack Fry, Logan Ferland, Jacob Brammer, and Jermarcus Hardrick, was named Offensive Line of the Week. They allowed only one sack and contributed to 137 rushing yards against the Tiger-Cats. The run game was particularly effective, with Tommy Stevens closing out the contest with 40 rushing yards on two plays for his second touchdown.
The Toronto Argonauts at Winnipeg Blue Bombers game was deemed the Best Game of the Week, featuring strong performances from Dru Brown and Trey Vaval, and an electric atmosphere. Conversely, the Hamilton Tiger-Cats at Saskatchewan Roughriders game was considered the Worst Game of the Week, with Saskatchewan winning 38-7. The Roughriders‘ new kicker, Alex Hale, missed a 35-yard field goal early in the game, a notable point given the team’s talent.
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Source: 3downnation.com
