Edmonton Elks' Javon Leake (22) dodges a tackle from Calgary Stampeders' Ben Labrosse (29) during the first half of a CFL game in Calgary on Monday, September 2, 2024. (Photo: Jeff McIntosh / The Canadian Press)
The Edmonton Elks secured a 35-20 win over the Calgary Stampeders during Monday’s Labour Day Classic at McMahon Stadium. Edmonton’s receiver, Tevin Jones, played a standout game, catching two touchdown passes and setting up another crucial score with an 81-yard run. This victory marks the Elks' third win in four games, lifting their spirits after recent tough losses.
The game began with cautious plays from both teams, but it was Jones who brought the stadium to life. Early in the fourth quarter, after recovering a fumble by teammate Eugene Lewis, Jones dashed for 81 yards, setting up a touchdown that put the Elks in a comfortable position. Jones finished the game with five receptions for 107 yards. Reflecting on his performance, he described the experience as one of the highlights of his career, saying, “It feels like my life is a movie, and this is my favourite scene.”
Quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson was another key player for the Elks, completing 25 of 36 passes for 486 yards. His chemistry with Jones was evident throughout the game. "He’s the dragon," Bethel-Thompson said of Jones, adding that the team is riding the wave of Jones' positive energy.
Edmonton coach Jarious Jackson was proud of the team’s performance, noting how challenging it is to win at McMahon Stadium, especially on Labour Day. He praised his players for their resilience and hard work, emphasizing the significance of the victory against their provincial rivals. This win was particularly sweet for the Elks, as they had lost 10 of the last 11 Labour Day Classics against Calgary.
On the other side, the Calgary Stampeders struggled to keep up. Quarterback Jake Maier had a rough outing, throwing four interceptions, which proved costly. Despite completing 22 of 34 passes for 297 yards, Maier couldn’t turn things around for his team. His four interceptions, two of which were picked by Edmonton’s Loucheiz Purifoy, were a significant factor in the loss. "There's no way to positively paint four interceptions," Maier admitted post-game. Stampeders linebacker Micah Awe echoed the frustration, acknowledging that the team wasn’t fully prepared for the Elks' strong showing.
Calgary’s Peyton Logan did manage to spark some hope with a 104-yard punt return for a touchdown, and kicker Rene Paredes added two field goals, including an impressive 57-yarder. However, their efforts weren’t enough to overcome the Elks' dominance.
The Elks extended their lead in the third quarter with a seven-yard touchdown catch by Jones, capping off a 91-yard drive. Calgary narrowed the gap with a touchdown by Kylin Hill, but they couldn’t regain control as Jones continued to shine. His 73-yard touchdown reception late in the game sealed the win for Edmonton.
As the game drew to a close, punter Jake Julien rounded out the scoring with a 63-yard single for the Elks. The Stampeders will have a chance for redemption when they visit the Elks on Saturday in the second game of their home-and-home series.
