Elks must beat Lions to prove they're 'built for the playoffs'

The Edmonton Elks remain alive for a playoff spot, but they will be eliminated if they can't manufacture an upset of the streaking BC Lions on Friday night in Vancouver.

Edmonton sits in last place in the West Division, but can reach the playoffs for the first time since 2019 with wins in its final two regular-season games and some help. The Elks (7-9) have won their past two contests to keep their hopes alive.

Edmonton lost six of its first seven games this year before its fortunes turned. Quarterback Cody Fajardo claims the Elks are "built for the playoffs."

"We just gotta find a way to get in and punch our ticket," Fajardo told reporters. "The road's not going to be easy, but we still have a chance."

Making the task harder is that the Elks are 0-2 against the Lions this season. BC recorded a 31-14 home victory June 7 and a 32-14 road triumph July 13.

The Lions (9-7) had a bye last week, but have won four straight games to wrap up a West Division playoff berth for the fourth consecutive season.

"I feel like we have momentum on our side," Lions running back James Butler told reporters. "We're believing a lot more. I feel like right now we're playing our best ball, which is important."

Butler is enjoying a stellar season and ranks third in the CFL with 1,103 rushing yards. He shares second with 10 rushing scores.

Edmonton has its own standout in Justin Rankin, who stands fifth in rushing and needs 24 yards to reach 1,000. He has a league-best 12 carries of 20-plus yards.

Rankin's production earned him a new deal last week as he signed a contract extension through the 2027 season.

"He's been one of our best players the whole year," said Elks coach Mark Kilam. "He's explosive, has a ton of explosive plays, brings energy every day and works tremendously hard."

Edmonton is 6-5 when Fajardo starts. He has thrown just three interceptions in 324 attempts while passing for 2,906 yards and 12 touchdowns.

BC star Nathan Rourke is on the short list of Most Outstanding Player candidates. Rourke is second in passing yardage (4,584) and touchdown passes (27) while being picked off 14 times.

Rourke is more interested in the playoff picture than awards.

"We got a week to reload before we get to the real important football," Rourke said. "I think that we're in a good position where we control our own destiny."

--Field Level Media