The Edmonton Elks' undefeated start to the season came crashing down in a 36-24 loss to the previously winless B.C. Lions. The Elks, who entered Week 5 as the CFL's last undefeated team, fell to 3-1, while the Lions improved to 1-3.
Schedule Favored Edmonton Early
Three of Edmonton's first four opponents had a combined one win before Week 5: the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (1-2), Ottawa Redblacks (0-3), and B.C. Lions (0-3). The Elks' next two games are against the Redblacks and Lions again, offering a chance to rebound.
Defensive Turnovers Hurt Elks
After recording zero takeaways in their first three games, the Lions' defense forced four turnovers against Edmonton. Defensive coordinator Mike Benevides' unit capitalized on Elks' mistakes, flipping the field position battle.
Running Game Stalled
League-leading rusher Justin Rankin was held to under three yards per carry, managing just 19 yards on seven rushes. He did contribute 100 receiving yards on 10 catches, but the Lions' early lead forced Edmonton to abandon the run. According to coach, Rankin's production is key to the offense's balance.
Lions' Blueprint for Stopping Rankin
The Lions effectively plugged gaps from the start, taking an early lead and making Edmonton one-dimensional. The question now is whether other teams will replicate this strategy. As one analyst noted, "As Rankin goes, so go the Elks."
Silver Lining: Still Tied for First
Despite the loss, Edmonton remains tied for first place in the West Division—a position they haven't finished since winning the 2003 Grey Cup. The current roster includes general manager Ed Hervey and president Chris Morris from that championship team. However, four games is a small sample size, and the Elks must adjust to maintain their standing.
