Edmonton Elks solidify position
The Edmonton Elks demonstrated their strength in Week 8 of the Canadian Football League, securing a victory against the defending champions, the Saskatchewan Roughriders, at Mosaic Stadium. This win solidified their status as a significant contender. Quarterback Cody Fajardo, 34, contributed significantly by throwing for 510 yards and four touchdowns, an impressive feat against the CFL‘s top pass defence. The Elks have also defeated the Montreal Alouettes this season, making them the only team to do so.
The team’s success has been attributed to running back Justin Rankin and their defence, but Fajardo’s aerial performance against the Roughriders highlighted their versatility. The Elks are scheduled for a rematch with the Green and White at home in Week 9, aiming to further extend their lead in the West Division.
Calgary Stampeders’ offensive power
The Calgary Stampeders have showcased a potent offence, being the only team to score more than 50 points twice this season. Their average of 39.7 points per game leads the league, demonstrating their effectiveness both through the air and on the ground. Quarterback Vernon Adams Jr., 33, has achieved a record for the most touchdown passes without an interception to start the season, with 18. His streak extends to 23 consecutive majors without an interception, dating back to last year.
The ground game, led by 2025 rushing champion Dedrick Mills, 29, has been a key component of the Stampeders‘ identity. Mills leads the league in carries with 95 and yards with 584, providing a physical presence alongside the offensive line. In their 52-30 victory over Winnipeg, backup running back Tyreik McAllister also made a significant impact, scoring three touchdowns through a 17-yard run, a 56-yard reception, and a 118-yard missed field goal return.
Alouettes’ offensive efficiency and defensive plays
The Montreal Alouettes have achieved a 6-1 start to the season, primarily driven by their offensive efficiency. While defensive coordinator Noel Thorpe‘s unit consistently performs well, the offence has been crucial. Quarterback Davis Alexander‘s streak of consecutive pass attempts without an interception ended at 356 in Week 8. Despite this, the team maintains a strong record of not turning over the ball.
Wide receivers Tyson Philpot, Tyler Snead, and Cole Spieker have been key contributors to the passing game. The ground game, led by Travis Theis, 25, has been particularly effective. Theis set a new career high with 156 rushing yards against the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in Week 8, following a 123-yard performance in Week 7. This marked his fourth game in the last five weeks with 90 or more rushing yards. In their 31-18 win, Theis gained 61 rushing yards after contact and averaged more than eight yards per carry.
In other notable defensive plays, Benjamin Labrosse of the Stampeders recorded three interceptions in the 52-30 win against Winnipeg. He was targeted six times and did not allow a first down. His third interception was particularly pivotal, setting up a field goal after the Blue Bombers had narrowed the score to 39-30.
Source: tsn.ca
Ethan Brule is a Senior Hockey Writer at CasinoNews. He covered the NHL for a national Canadian outlet. He focuses on the NHL, the Maple Leafs and Team Canada and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. He holds a degree in Sports Media from Toronto Metropolitan University. Now based in Toronto, he plays beer-league hockey and follows the junior ranks. “Hockey in Canada is never only about the score.”
