Time pressure mounts for Edmonton Elks to secure playoff spot: "Each game is a crucial match"
Edmonton Elks Face Crucial Matches in Quest for Playoffs
The Edmonton Elks, currently struggling with a 1-5 record in the CFL, find themselves in a challenging position in the 2025 playoffs race. With several key games ahead, the team must treat these as must-win encounters to keep their postseason dreams alive.
The Elks' first critical match is against the Montreal Alouettes on August 8. Although the Alouettes are ranked higher, the game is winnable, making it a potential turning point for the Elks.
In the following weeks, the Elks will host the Toronto Argonauts (August 15) and the Ottawa Redblacks (August 22). Both Eastern teams trail in the standings, and victories against them could help secure potential crossover playoff spots.
The most crucial games, however, are the intradivisional clashes against the Calgary Stampeders. The Elks will face Calgary away on September 1 and at home on September 6. These matches are vital for the Elks, as they aim to close the gap in the West standings and assert themselves within the division.
With only one win so far, the Elks know that securing victories against lower-ranked teams and divisional foes is essential for playoff hopes. In the CFL, where any team can beat any other, these upcoming games will significantly impact the Elks' chances of making the playoffs.
Mark Korte, the lineman for the Elks, believes the team can compete with any team, but finding a win has been challenging. The offensive line, often blamed for an ineffective running game, feels responsible and believes they could have influenced a different outcome in the previous game.
The Elks' run game struggled in their last game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders, managing only 25 yards. Cody Fajardo, the quarterback for the Elks, led the team to outscore the Roughriders 14-0 in the fourth quarter, throwing for a pair of touchdowns.
Unfortunately, the Elks will be without key players due to injuries. Linebackers Nick Anderson, Michael Brodrique, defensive back Royce Metchie, and wide receiver Zach Mathis will all be missing.
The Hamilton Tiger-Cats, who have won their last five games, will be the Elks' next opponents at home on Saturday. The Tiger-Cats have given up less than 55 rushing yards in three of their five straight wins.
Justin Rankin, the Edmonton running back, was held to zero yards in their last game against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Cody Fajardo, who was obtained by the Elks in an off-season trade with the Montreal Alouettes, remains "unshaken" and believes success is coming.
Mark Kalim, the head coach of the Elks, emphasises the need for the team to execute better and make the most of opportunities. David Beard, the center for the Elks, agrees, stating that a stout offensive line is necessary to return to 2024 numbers.
The Elks' upcoming games are crucial for their playoff aspirations. Winning these matches against the Montreal Alouettes, Toronto Argonauts, Ottawa Redblacks, and Calgary Stampeders will determine if they can climb in the standings and secure either a West postseason berth or a crossover spot in the East.
The Edmonton Elks, in their quest for the playoffs, view their upcoming matches against the Montreal Alouettes, Toronto Argonauts, Ottawa Redblacks, and Calgary Stampeders as crucial for their playoff hopes. The Elks' run game, despite struggling in their last game, will need to find success against these opponents, especially against Calgary, to secure victories.
