Elks Secure Victory Over Alouettes in Montreal with Assistance from Fajardo and Julien-Grant, Final Score 23-22
In a thrilling turn of events on August 8, 2025, the Edmonton Elks secured their first road victory of the season, defeating the Montreal Alouettes 23-22. This victory marked the end of a three-game losing streak for the Elks and improved their record to 2-6.
Cody Fajardo, the Elks' quarterback, delivered a stellar performance, completing 27 out of 38 passes for 289 yards and two touchdowns. His poise and determination were evident as he overcame an eight-point deficit against a tough Montreal defense. Fajardo also contributed 14 rushing yards, showcasing his versatility on the field.
This was Fajardo's first start against Montreal since being traded from the Alouettes to the Elks last December. Since replacing Canadian quarterback Tre Ford on July 26, Fajardo has demonstrated impressive form, throwing for 892 yards, five touchdowns, and one interception. His personal record against Montreal now stands at 5-1.
The connection between Fajardo and fellow former Alouette Kaion Julien-Grant was instrumental in the Elks' comeback. Julien-Grant, who spent five seasons with the Alouettes, accounted for both of Edmonton's touchdowns.
The Alouettes, despite a valiant effort, could not generate any points after getting the ball to open the second quarter. Montreal lost to Edmonton for the first time since October 2022.
The game began with Travis Theis returning a punt 80 yards for a touchdown, giving the Elks an early 7-0 lead. The Alouettes responded with a field goal, courtesy of Jose Maltos Diaz, to take a 3-1 lead. Maltos Diaz connected for a 53-yard field goal late in the fourth quarter, his third of the game, increasing Montreal's lead to 16-13.
Tyrell Ford intercepted a pass intended for Charleston Rambo and ran it 87 yards for a touchdown, cutting Edmonton's deficit to two at halftime. The Alouettes extended their lead with a touchdown drive in the third quarter, resulting in a 19-yard touchdown pass to Cole Spieker. This was the Alouettes' first offensive touchdown in 138:14.
However, the Elks fought back in the fourth quarter, with Fajardo leading them to a game-winning 15-yard touchdown pass to Kaion Julien-Grant with 15 seconds left on the clock. The Alouettes were unable to respond, ensuring a memorable victory for the Elks.
The win was also significant for the Elks as it was their first victory in four tries against Montreal. The game was not without its challenges, with Fajardo being sacked five times during the game. Nevertheless, Fajardo's leadership and the Elks' resilience shone through, propelling them to a hard-fought victory.
The victory over the Alouettes has given the Elks a much-needed boost in their season, and they will be hoping to build on this momentum going forward. The Alouettes, on the other hand, will be looking to regroup and bounce back from this defeat.
Cody Fajardo, having played for the Montreal Alouettes prior to his trade to the Edmonton Elks, showcased his versatile skills in football by delivering a strong performance against his former team, contributing in both passing and rushing. This thrilling encounter marked the first time the Elks defeated Montreal since October 2022, ending a four-game losing streak against them in sports.
