Clarence Hicks, the Calgary Stampeders' defensive end, is proving to be a relentless force in the Canadian Football League, leading the league with three sacks through two games in the 2025 season. Despite facing constant double-teams and game plans designed to neutralize him, Hicks has continued to disrupt opposing offenses, setting the stage for a crucial Week 4 matchup against the winless BC Lions on Saturday at the Apple Bowl in Kelowna, B.C.
Hicks' Dominant Start to the Season
Hicks, a 27-year-old Florida native in his third CFL season, has recorded three quarterback sacks in the Stampeders' first two games, tying him with Winnipeg Blue Bombers' Jake Ceresna for the league lead. In Week 3, he strip-sacked Saskatchewan Roughriders quarterback Trevor Harris, showcasing his ability to change the game's momentum. Last season, Hicks amassed 12 sacks (third-most in the CFL), 28 tackles, five tackles for loss, and two forced fumbles, earning all-CFL West honors but being overlooked for the national all-CFL team.
“I’ve been getting so many doubles,” Hicks said, referring to opponents assigning two offensive linemen to block him. “I’ve been getting so many ugly protections. You know … I’m thinking I got a one-on-one, but offensive lines are coming to line of scrimmage going, ‘Oh no, oh no, oh no, no,’ and then the guard is coming to hit me, as well as the tackle. So … you know … they have a good little game plan. But me? I don’t really care what you throw at me.”
Snubbed from All-CFL Honors
Despite his impressive 2024 statistics, Hicks was not named to the CFL's all-star team, a decision he believes overlooks his impact. “Oh … yeah … I always feel like that,” Hicks said. “At the end of the day, you’ve got to put up the stats — I was third in sacks, so I guess I fill them. But if you go by just the effect I bring to the game — if you watch the games — I don’t see no other d-end putting as much pressure on the game as I do. Last year to this year, I just don’t see it.”
Hicks' confidence is matched by his work ethic. “I always feel like there’s more,” he added. “I’m never (satisfied). I don’t really get too up or too down, and I don’t get complacent. I know there’s always still work to do. You know … even the best at the top levels, they’re trying to get better every single day. So I gotta do the same.”
Stampeders Seek First Win Against Lions
The Calgary Stampeders enter Saturday's game with an 0-2 record, while the BC Lions are also winless at 0-2 after a disappointing start to the season. The Lions reached the West Division final last year with an 11-7 record, defeating the Stampeders in the West semifinal, but have struggled to find consistency in 2025. Both teams are desperate for a victory, making the matchup at the Apple Bowl in Kelowna critical for their playoff hopes.
Hicks' ability to pressure the quarterback will be key for the Stampeders' defense. The Lions' offensive line will need to contain him to give their quarterback time to make plays. With Hicks leading the charge, Calgary aims to turn their season around and climb the standings.
