Stampeders bid to remain perfect in division when rival Elks visit

The Calgary Stampeders sport a perfect record against West Division foes this season.

The provincial rival Edmonton Elks, however, have yet to record a victory within the division.

The Stampeders (7-3) will look to continue both streaks as well as extend their recent run of good fortune versus the Elks (4-6) on Monday when they host their longtime rivals in the annual Labour Day encounter.

Calgary moved within one game of first-place Saskatchewan by posting a 32-15 victory over the Roughriders on Aug. 23.

Vernon Adams Jr. threw for 222 yards and three touchdowns and ran for a two-point conversion to pace the Stampeders, who improved to 5-0 versus West Division representatives.

Although the win was impressive, Calgary general manager/head coach Dave Dickenson isn't interested in having his team rest on its laurels.

"I think sometimes when it's a nicer day and a longer week, complacency can set in -- and that's not us," Dickenson said. "Trying to make sure they understand there's some big opportunities in front of us. Go take advantage of it."

While Calgary has won 10 of its last 12 encounters versus Edmonton, the Elks have some momentum on their side entering Monday's clash.

Cody Fajardo guided Edmonton to its third straight victory on Aug. 22, a 30-20 win over the Ottawa Redblacks. The Elks improved to 4-2 versus East Division foes, but they are 0-4 against the West Division.

Fajardo will have his work cut out for him against a Stampeders team that has yielded a CFL-low 20.7 points per game.

Edmonton's defense has tightened up lately, surrendering 20.6 points per contest during its winning streak.

"Oh, this is a big game, and not only for conference standings," Elks defensive back Kordell Jackson said of facing the Stampeders. "It's the Battle of Alberta and winning that will always be good for the community.

"I feel like it's definitely a personal game because we have a head coach (Mark Kilam) and players who've come from there. It's bigger and bigger each year and that's what we love for the fans and for us."

Kilam spent 20 seasons as an assistant with Calgary before joining Edmonton.

--Field Level Media