Ottawa Redblacks' William Stanback (31) is tackled by Edmonton Elks' Chelen Garnes (25) during first half CFL action in Edmonton, on Sunday July 6, 2025.
The Edmonton Elks enter Friday’s CFL showdown against the Ottawa Redblacks riding momentum and growing confidence. Kickoff is set for 5:30 p.m. MT at TD Place Stadium, where the Elks aim to extend their two-game winning streak.
The team has avoided injuries in recent weeks and sees no need to adjust its lineup. Edmonton is showing signs of balance on both sides of the ball, particularly on defence, where steady improvement is fueling victories.
Defence Becoming Edmonton’s Backbone
After a shaky start, the Elks’ defence has tightened. The unit allowed an average of 34 points in the first five games but has since cut that number to 23 over the last four. This progress includes wins over Toronto and Montreal and narrow losses against division leaders Saskatchewan and Hamilton.
Head coach Mark Kilam credits teamwork for the turnaround. “The secondary is coming together, which is helping the front. The front is coming together, which is helping the back end,” Kilam said. “As a group of 12, they’re improving every week.”
Edmonton Elks quarterback Cody Fajardo (7) throws throws ball in the pocket during first half CFL action against the Montreal Alouettes in Montreal on Friday, Aug. 8, 2025.
Key Defensive Highlights
Recent defensive plays have shifted games in Edmonton’s favour. Against Toronto, defensive end Brandon Barlow forced a fumble from quarterback Nick Arbuckle. Robbie Smith recovered, and Edmonton capitalized with a four-yard touchdown pass from Cody Fajardo to Steven Dunbar Jr.
Earlier this month, defensive back Tyrell Ford delivered a game-changing moment against Montreal. He intercepted McLeod Bethel-Thompson’s pass and sprinted 87 yards for his first career touchdown. That play cut the deficit to two points before halftime and set the stage for Edmonton’s dramatic 23-22 victory.
“That gave the team life,” Kilam said. “We went into the half feeling upbeat about what was going on.”
Cody Fajardo Leads Offensive Revival
While the defence earns praise, quarterback Cody Fajardo has stabilized the offence. Starting the season as a backup, Fajardo now leads all CFL quarterbacks with a 77.5% completion rate. In four starts, he has thrown for 1,165 yards, six touchdowns, and just two interceptions.
His efficient play has helped Edmonton protect the pocket. Last week, the Elks avoided giving up a single sack for the first time this season, a sharp contrast to the 27 surrendered over the first eight games.
The Elks’ offensive consistency is matching their defensive improvements, making them a tougher team to beat heading into Ottawa.
Ottawa Redblacks Face Uphill Battle
The Ottawa Redblacks, meanwhile, continue to struggle with slow starts. They have been outscored 143-94 in the first halves of games this season. Against Winnipeg last week, they trailed 20-3 at halftime but clawed back to tie the game in the fourth quarter before losing 30-27 on a late field goal.
Missed opportunities cost Ottawa dearly. The team was stopped three times at the goal line early in that contest, a momentum swing they never fully recovered from.
Dustin Crum Steps In at Quarterback
With starter Dru Brown sidelined by a knee injury, the Redblacks will turn once again to Dustin Crum. The young quarterback stepped in last week and performed well, completing 11 of 17 passes for 125 yards and a touchdown. He also ran for 21 yards and added a rushing score.
Head coach Bob Dyce expressed confidence in Crum. “Dustin’s trajectory continues to go up,” Dyce said. “He’s running the offence the way Tommy (Condell) wants it run. He made good throws and great decisions in Winnipeg.”
Elks vs. Redblacks: What’s at Stake
The Elks (3-6) enter this matchup with renewed optimism after back-to-back wins. Their defence is clicking, and Fajardo’s leadership has stabilized the offence. Ottawa (3-7), on the other hand, must overcome early scoring woes and rely on Crum’s playmaking ability to stay competitive.
Friday’s clash offers both teams a chance to define their midseason momentum. For Edmonton, it’s about continuing a surge. For Ottawa, it’s about breaking the cycle of missed chances.
