Ottawa Redblacks' Anthony Gosselin (45) chases Edmonton Elks' Javon Leake (22) during first half CFL action in Edmonton, on Sunday, July 6, 2025.
The Edmonton Elks finally broke their winless streak with a thrilling 39-33 victory over the Ottawa REDBLACKS in Week 5 of the CFL season. Played under the bright lights at Commonwealth Stadium, the game featured explosive plays, costly penalties, and a standout performance from quarterback Tre Ford.
This win marks Mark Kilam’s first as a head coach, and he celebrated with a well-earned Gatorade shower.
Here’s a breakdown of three key stats that defined the Elks' much-needed win.
1. 174 – Justin Rankin’s Total Yards Spark Elks’ Offense
The Elks finally found their rhythm on the ground, and it was Justin Rankin who stole the show.
After a quiet start to the 2025 season, Rankin burst onto the scene Sunday night. On just his fourth touch, he took a short pass 45 yards to the end zone. Later, he added a jaw-dropping 74-yard rushing touchdown — the longest run of the CFL season so far.
Rankin didn’t just shine on the ground. He added four catches for 69 yards, proving to be the dual-threat weapon the Elks have been missing. With 105 rushing yards and 69 receiving, his 174 total yards set a new career high and marked his fifth career 100-yard rushing performance.
For an offense that has leaned heavily on the pass due to trailing in games, this breakout ground game could be a turning point.
2. 118 – Ottawa’s Penalty Yards Prove Costly
Discipline – or the lack of it – continues to haunt the Ottawa REDBLACKS.
They entered Week 5 as the league’s most penalized team, and Sunday night didn’t change that narrative. Ottawa committed nine penalties, racking up a whopping 118 yards – their worst since Week 1.
The most damaging moment came in the third quarter, right after Edmonton turned the ball over deep in their own territory. Positioned perfectly to cut into the Elks’ 32-19 lead, Ottawa blew the opportunity with a disorganized snap that saw most of the receiving corps line up offside. That penalty killed the drive and shifted momentum back to Edmonton.
Head coach Bob Dyce has voiced his frustration before, and with penalty yards piling up, it’s becoming a major factor in Ottawa's early-season struggles.
3. 158.3 – Tre Ford Posts Perfect Quarterback Rating
Tre Ford didn’t need to throw often — but when he did, he was nearly flawless.
The Canadian quarterback delivered a perfect 158.3 passer rating, completing 88.2% of his throws. Ford started the game with 10 straight completions and ended the night with just two incompletions.
It’s the second time in his career that Ford has recorded a perfect QB rating, showcasing his efficiency and poise. Importantly, it’s also his second straight game without an interception.
Though backup Cody Fajardo took a few snaps during the game, Ford made the most of his time on the field. As the Elks look ahead to Week 6 against the BC Lions, Ford’s precision and confidence could be key to building a winning streak.
Momentum Shift in Edmonton?
With a strong showing from Rankin, improved quarterback play from Ford, and some well-timed defensive stops, the Elks are finally on the board in 2025.
For the Ottawa REDBLACKS, penalties and missed opportunities continue to cost them wins.
As the CFL season heats up, both teams have their work cut out. But for Edmonton, this Week 5 win might be the fresh start they needed.
