The Elks secured a crucial 25-20 victory over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers with two impressive third-quarter touchdowns and a strong fourth-quarter defense, preserving Edmonton’s slim chances of making the CFL playoffs. Justin Rankin’s 64-yard touchdown run on a daring third-down play and Kordell Jackson’s 47-yard touchdown after recovering a fumble from a teammate were the game-changers in front of 15,013 fans enduring a wet and chilly 4 C evening in Edmonton.
Despite a challenging 1-6 start to the season, the Elks must win their remaining two games, including a crucial matchup against the Calgary Stampeders, to secure a playoff spot for the first time since 2019. With their third victory in five games, the Elks improved their record to 7-9, remaining at the bottom of the West Division but trailing the Bombers by just two points.
The game saw the Elks turning a close contest into a 14-point lead with Rankin’s explosive run and Jackson’s fumble recovery touchdown. The resilient Edmonton defense thwarted Winnipeg’s late-game comeback attempts, forcing turnovers on critical third-down plays.
Quarterback Cody Fajardo had a solid performance, completing 13 of 14 passes for 142 yards, while Rankin showcased his skills with 138 rushing yards on 18 carries. On the other side, Winnipeg’s Zach Collaros threw for 202 yards, one touchdown, and two interceptions.
The victory keeps Edmonton’s playoff hopes alive as they head into their final games, while the Bombers will face the Saskatchewan Roughriders next, with the Elks set to take on the B.C. Lions on the same day.
