Elks Rally to Victory Over Redblacks, Securing First Win of the Season

The Edmonton Elks secured their first victory of the season, defeating the Ottawa Redblacks with a score of 39-33. Justin Rankin played a pivotal role, scoring two touchdowns in the game.

Elks head coach Mark Kilam praised the team's effort, highlighting their resilience and determination throughout the entire game. He noted the team's ability to overcome challenges, including injuries and adversity, emphasizing the collective effort of the entire team. The win ended a three-game losing streak for Edmonton, bringing their record to 1-3.

Quarterback Tre Ford contributed significantly, throwing for 212 yards and two touchdowns. Ford acknowledged the team's strong start, followed by some struggles in the second and third quarters. However, he emphasized the team's ability to come together and score crucial points.

The Ottawa Redblacks, now with a 1-4 record, suffered their second consecutive loss. Coach Bob Dyce expressed disappointment in the team's performance, citing issues with discipline, execution, and giving up big plays. The Redblacks also accumulated nine penalties for 118 yards.

Ottawa quarterback Dru Brown, returning from injury, acknowledged the team's shortcomings and his own early struggles. He recognized the game as a learning experience, emphasizing the need for improvement.

The Elks started strong, scoring on their opening drive with a pass from Ford to Rankin, resulting in a 45-yard touchdown. They followed up with another touchdown on their second possession, with Ford passing to Kurleigh Gittens Jr. for an eight-yard score. Edmonton also scored a punt return touchdown by Javon Leake.

Ottawa responded late in the second quarter with a touchdown pass from Brown to Eugene Lewis. The Redblacks then scored a punt return touchdown of their own by Kalil Pimpleton, cutting Edmonton's lead before halftime.

In the third quarter, Ottawa scored a field goal, but the Elks responded with a field goal of their own. Rankin scored another touchdown, a 74-yard run. Ottawa added two more field goals, but the Elks secured the win with another field goal and a single. The Redblacks scored a late touchdown, but it wasn't enough to overcome the Elks' lead.

Dru Brown, returning from injury, aimed to pass for over 400 yards for the fourth consecutive game, a feat previously achieved by only a few CFL quarterbacks. However, he finished with 316 passing yards.