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)


September 03, 2024 Tags:

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.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

Average rating 0 / 5. Vote count: 0

No votes so far! Be the first to rate this post.

You may also like

Maple Leafs Shine in Key Win Over Panthers, Secure Playoff Spot

The Toronto Maple Leafs delivered a thrilling 3-2 victory over the Florida Panthers on Wednesday, securing their spot in the....

Joey Daccord, Kraken Shut Out Canucks 5-0, Hurting Vancouver’s Playoff Hopes

Seattle Kraken goalie Joey Daccord delivered a flawless performance, stopping all 25 shots he faced as his team cruised past....

Vancouver Whitecaps Hold Pumas to 1-1 in Champions Cup Clash

The Vancouver Whitecaps faced disappointment as they settled for a 1-1 draw against Mexico’s Pumas UNAM in their CONCACAF Champions....

Suzuki Sparks Canadiens’ Thrilling Comeback Victory Over Panthers

Nick Suzuki proved once again why he’s the heart of the Montreal Canadiens. With just seconds left on the clock,....

Kuzmenko Leads Kings to 4-1 Win Over Top-Ranked Jets

The Los Angeles Kings delivered a commanding 4-1 victory over the NHL-leading Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday night, with Andrei Kuzmenko,....

Ovechkin Nears Gretzky’s Record as Capitals Edge Bruins 4-3

Alex Ovechkin inched closer to history on Tuesday night, scoring his 891st career goal as the Washington Capitals secured a....

Sharangovich Seals Flames' 3-2 Shootout Victory Over Avalanche

The Calgary Flames pulled off an electrifying comeback Monday night, rallying from a two-goal deficit to stun the Colorado Avalanche....

Devils Edge Wild in Shootout Thriller as NHL Action Heats Up

The New Jersey Devils secured a thrilling 3-2 shootout victory over the Minnesota Wild on Monday night, marking their third....

Women's NCAA Final Four: South Carolina vs. Texas, UCLA vs. UConn

In an exciting twist, the Women's NCAA Final Four is set with three No. 1 seeds vying for a spot....

Raptors' Young Core Gaining Momentum as Season Winds Down

The Toronto Raptors may be out of the playoff race, but their recent performances suggest a promising future. With a....

Jenner Shines as Blue Jackets Edge Canucks in 7-6 Shootout Win

The Columbus Blue Jackets pulled off a stunning comeback on Friday night, rallying from multiple deficits to claim a 7-6....

Kraken Dominate Oilers with Quick Strikes in 6-1 Victory

The Seattle Kraken snapped their three-game losing streak in style, crushing the Edmonton Oilers 6-1 on Thursday night. Jaden Schwartz....