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The Edmonton Elks are having a rough start to their CFL season, with three straight losses weighing heavily on their spirits. Their most recent setback came against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, who edged them out with a score of 36-23.
Despite the Elks trying to rally in the second half, the defeat stings as they gear up to face the Ottawa Redblacks at Commonwealth Stadium. Can they turn things around and find their first win?
Understanding the Elks’ Performance
In their clash with the Bombers, the Elks gave fans glimpses of what they could be, especially on offense. Head coach Mark Kilam pointed out the urgent need for the team to play a full 60 minutes, stressing that players must rise to the occasion and make those crucial plays.
At the start of the game, the Elks moved the ball well, showing potential, but they hit a wall when it came to converting opportunities into points.
Looking back at their previous match against the Montreal Alouettes, where they fell 38-28, Kilam had hoped their impressive fourth-quarter surge—scoring 22 points—would spark a turnaround.
Yet, maintaining that momentum has been a challenge this season. Kilam emphasized that keeping the offense on the field is vital, especially when the defense is managing to hold the opponents in check.
The Path Ahead for the Elks
As the only winless team in the CFL this year, the Elks have a tough road ahead to regain their confidence and secure a victory.
Their recent history isn’t pretty, with starts of 0-2, 0-9, and 0-7 over the past three seasons. Last year, they finished fourth in the West Division and haven’t seen playoff action since 2019. The stakes are high as they prepare to take on the Redblacks.
On a brighter note, defensive lineman D.K. Bonhomme received recognition on the Week 4 Honour Roll for his standout special teams performance. He expressed gratitude for Kilam’s leadership and the importance of team unity in executing their game plan. Despite the challenges they face, Bonhomme believes there are valuable lessons to be learned and a solid foundation for building confidence.
Focus on Improvement and Team Cohesion
As the Elks continue to prepare, Kilam has stressed the importance of maintaining a high-tempo practice environment that encourages improvement, regardless of recent results. He emphasized that the team is committed to keeping a positive mindset while building on their strengths. Each week offers a fresh opportunity for growth, and the Elks need to embrace this philosophy as they tackle the challenges ahead.
In conclusion, while the Edmonton Elks are currently navigating some rocky waters early in the CFL season, the potential for improvement is still very much alive. By prioritizing teamwork, execution, and learning from past performances, the Elks are determined to turn their season around and aim for that first win against the Redblacks. The road ahead will demand resilience and determination, but with the right mindset, the Elks can definitely get back in the game.
