Rankin leads way with three TDs as Elks run over winless Redblacks
Elks secure victory at Commonwealth Stadium
The Edmonton Elks returned to their winning form on Thursday, securing a 40-17 victory over the Ottawa Redblacks at Commonwealth Stadium. Running back Justin Rankin was a key contributor, scoring three touchdowns during the game. This win moves the Elks to a 4-1 record for the season, placing them ahead of Saskatchewan in the West Division standings.
Quarterback Cody Fajardo completed 19 of 24 passes for 340 yards and two touchdowns. The Elks’ offence accumulated 555 yards in total, with 340 yards through the air and 215 on the ground. Fajardo acknowledged the team’s performance, stating the importance of playing their brand of football, which involves running the ball and quick passes.
The Redblacks, still searching for their first win of the season, now hold an 0-5 record. Ottawa quarterback Jake Maier completed 26 of 39 passes for 293 yards and one touchdown, but also threw four interceptions during the game. Head coach Ryan Dinwiddie emphasized the need for the team to find answers and remain united.
Key moments and defensive plays
Justin Rankin initiated the scoring for the Elks with a 19-yard rushing touchdown. Despite a quiet period in the second quarter, kicker Vincent Blanchard added a 36-yard field goal. The Redblacks managed to get on the scoreboard with a one-yard touchdown plunge from backup quarterback Bryson Barnes, making the score 10-7.
Edmonton extended its lead before halftime with a 15-yard field goal from Blanchard, set up by a Tyrell Ford interception and a significant gain by Brendan O’Leary-Orange. Another 50-yard field goal from Blanchard brought the halftime score to 16-7.
In the third quarter, Ottawa narrowed the deficit when Maier connected with Ayden Eberhardt for a 21-yard touchdown pass. However, Fajardo responded in the fourth quarter with a four-yard touchdown pass to Kaion Julien-Grant. The Redblacks then added a 27-yard field goal from Brett Lauther, bringing the score to 23-17.
Rankin continued to make an impact in the fourth quarter, catching a pass from Fajardo and weaving 33 yards for another touchdown. Maier was intercepted for the third time by Chelen Garnes, which led to another Rankin touchdown on a 31-yard run. A fourth interception by Kordell Jackson set up an 11-yard field goal by Blanchard, sealing the victory for the Elks.
Looking ahead for both teams
The Elks‘ defence played a crucial role, forcing four interceptions from Jake Maier. Kordell Jackson recorded two interceptions, while Tyrell Ford and Chelen Garnes each contributed one. These turnovers often occurred at critical junctures, helping Edmonton maintain control of the game.
Head coach Mark Kilam expressed pride in his team’s resilience, particularly after their previous loss to the B.C. Lions. He noted that the players put in the necessary work during practices to achieve this positive outcome. Maier acknowledged that the Redblacks did not make enough plays in the fourth quarter, leading to a snowball effect of desperate decisions.
The Edmonton Elks are scheduled to host the B.C. Lions next Friday. Meanwhile, the Ottawa Redblacks will welcome the Winnipeg Blue Bombers next Sunday.
Source: sportsnet.ca
