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The Calgary Stampeders showcased their grit in a commanding 28-7 win against the Edmonton Elks during the Labour Day Classic. This victory not only solidifies their position in the West Division but also highlights a remarkable comeback from last season’s struggles.
Isn’t it impressive how a team can turn things around in just one year? The Stampeders capitalized on key moments and executed their game plan with precision, proving that hard work pays off on the field.
Game Overview and Key Performances
Quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. was instrumental in the Stampeders’ success, throwing a touchdown pass to Dominque Rhymes. Tailback Dedrick Mills also shone brightly, racking up 106 yards on 17 carries. But the real showstopper? Erik Brooks, who not only scored a touchdown but made history with his first return touchdown in the Canadian Football League (CFL).
With such standout performances, it’s no wonder Calgary easily maintained control of the game. Their defense, relentless as ever, notched up four sacks and kept the Elks from crossing into the end zone.
Defensive end Folarin Orimolade spoke volumes about the team’s mindset when he said, “This defence is tough to kill — we don’t give up many touchdowns.” It’s a statement that perfectly captures the Stampeders’ commitment to a strong defensive strategy.
Meanwhile, the Elks faced a tough setback, halting their three-game winning streak and finding themselves at the bottom of the West Division with a 4-7 record. How will they bounce back?
Season Progression and Team Performance
Currently, the Stampeders stand at 8-3, holding second place in the West Division, just two points behind the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
This is quite a turnaround for a team that ended last season with a disappointing 5-12-1 record, breaking an impressive run of 18 consecutive playoff appearances. What’s the secret to their transformation? A lot of it comes down to head coach and general manager Dave Dickenson, whose leadership has instilled a winning mentality and resilience in the squad.
The Stampeders kicked off the scoring early, with Adams Jr. connecting with Rhymes for a touchdown. The excitement was palpable as Quick Six, the touchdown horse, took a celebratory lap around the field, energizing the home crowd. They kept the momentum going with a jaw-dropping 86-yard punt return by Brooks, extending their lead to 20-7. Can you feel the energy of the crowd from your screen?
Defensive Strategy and Future Prospects
Calgary’s defense did an outstanding job neutralizing the Elks’ offensive strategies, particularly by putting pressure on quarterback Cody Fajardo and limiting tailback Justin Rankin’s impact. The Elks struggled to find their rhythm, facing four consecutive two-and-out possessions in the second half—a clear testament to the Stampeders’ dominance. Fajardo, who completed 21 of 33 passes for 255 yards without any touchdowns, acknowledged the hurdles faced during the match, citing physical setbacks as a factor. How can the Elks regroup after such a performance?
Looking ahead, the Stampeders have a rematch with the Elks on the horizon, presenting a golden opportunity to reinforce their standing in the league. With a sturdy defense and an offense gaining momentum, Calgary is eager to keep their winning streak alive against Western opponents. Coach Dickenson emphasized the team’s perseverance, stating, “We’re OK with the grind.” This attitude perfectly reflects their readiness to tackle whatever challenges come next. Are you excited to see what happens next? The road ahead is definitely looking promising for the Stampeders!
