The Elks secured a crucial 25-20 victory against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers with two impressive third-quarter touchdowns and a solid fourth-quarter defense. The game-changing plays included a 64-yard touchdown run by Elks’ running back Justin Rankin on a third-down gamble and Kordell Jackson’s 47-yard touchdown after recovering a teammate’s fumble. Despite facing a 1-6 start to the season, Edmonton’s win keeps their slim CFL playoff hopes alive, requiring them to win their final two games, including a matchup with the Calgary Stampeders.
The victory marked Edmonton’s third win in five games, improving their overall record to 7-9. While they currently sit at the bottom of the West Division, they are just two points behind the 8-8 Blue Bombers, who hold a potential tiebreaker due to a previous win against the Elks. However, if Edmonton defeats Calgary in their final meeting, they would secure the tiebreaker.
Rankin’s explosive 64-yard touchdown run and Jackson’s fumble recovery touchdown extended Edmonton’s lead, helping them overcome the Blue Bombers’ late surge. The Elks’ defense also played a pivotal role, forcing Winnipeg into turnovers on crucial third-down attempts.
Edmonton quarterback Cody Fajardo and running back Rankin delivered notable performances, while Winnipeg’s Zach Collaros faced challenges with two interceptions despite throwing for 202 yards and a touchdown. The Blue Bombers will face the Saskatchewan Roughriders next, while the Elks will take on the B.C. Lions on the same day.
