The Edmonton Elks orchestrated a remarkable comeback, overcoming an 18-point deficit to secure a 38-28 victory against the Calgary Stampeders in a thrilling CFL match on Monday. A pivotal 50-yard rushing touchdown by Elks’ running back Justin Rankin, followed by Vincent Blanchard’s successful convert, propelled Edmonton into the lead with just over four minutes left in the Labour Day contest.
Displaying exceptional resilience, Edmonton (9-3) staged an impressive late-game surge, scoring 24 points in the final 10 minutes to clinch their third consecutive win. Kaion Julien-Grant, Austin Mack, ShunDerrick Powell, and Cole Snyder all contributed with crucial touchdowns for the Elks, who had previously rallied from a 16-point deficit to defeat the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Blanchard’s heroics continued as he nailed a 52-yard field goal in the fourth quarter and added five convert points to further solidify Edmonton’s comeback. On the other side, Stampeders’ kicker Rene Paredes managed field goals from 36 and 42 yards, along with three convert points, in front of a crowd of 16,346 at McMahon Stadium.
With this victory, the Elks maintained their position atop the West Division, staying ahead of the Saskatchewan Roughriders (8-4). Meanwhile, the Stampeders (5-7) remained at the bottom of the division, trailing behind the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the B.C. Lions, both standing at 6-6.
Quarterback Cody Fajardo showcased his talent by completing 17 of 31 pass attempts for 181 yards and two touchdown passes for the Elks, although he was intercepted once. Stampeders’ quarterback Vernon Adams Jr., who returned after a concussion, completed 15 of 29 passes for 214 yards and two touchdown throws.
The game witnessed intense moments, including a crucial penalty against Edmonton’s Nick Anderson for roughing the passer, as well as key plays from both teams that kept the audience on the edge of their seats. The Elks and the Stampeders are set to face each other again in the upcoming game, promising another exciting showdown between the two CFL rivals.