The Edmonton Elks are off to a 2-0 start for the first time since 2019, following a 32-29 overtime victory over the Montreal Alouettes on June 20, 2026, at Commonwealth Stadium. After five consecutive seasons missing the playoffs, the Elks have shown signs of a turnaround.
Defence Steps Up in Overtime
While the offence scored the winning points, it was the defence that set the stage. Alouettes quarterback Davis Alexander, who had won 13 straight starts, drove Montreal into field-goal range on the first possession of overtime. However, the Elks stopped running back Travis Theis on consecutive plays, and Alexander's end-zone pass fell incomplete. This defensive stand allowed Cody Fajardo to win the game on a quarterback keeper.
Justin Rankin Leads the Offence
Running back Justin Rankin continued his dominant start to the season, rushing for 145 yards on 10 carries—his second straight game with over 100 rushing yards. He leads the CFL with 281 rushing yards on 31 carries, averaging 9.1 yards per carry. Rankin also leads the Elks in receptions with 10 for 145 yards, though that total ranks 16th in the league.
Fajardo's Efficient Play
Cody Fajardo managed the game effectively, avoiding turnovers and converting key plays. His quarterback keeper in overtime sealed the win. Fajardo has yet to throw an interception this season, a critical factor in the Elks' 2-0 start.
Historic Slow Starts No More
The Elks have historically struggled to begin seasons. In 2021, they needed four games for two wins; in 2022, five games; in 2023, 11 games; in 2024, nine games; and in 2025, eight games. This year, they achieved the feat in just two games, putting them ahead of schedule for a playoff push.
Confidence Building
Head coach Mark Kilam praised the team's resilience. "We're not satisfied, but we're building something here," Kilam said. The Elks have already matched their win total from the first two weeks of previous seasons, and fans are cautiously optimistic for the first time in years.
