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- calendar_today October 19, 2026
Edmonton Elks Clinch West Final Home Field With Key Win
The Edmonton Elks have secured the right to host this year's CFL West final after a 35-27 win over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Friday. The victory marks a significant achievement for the Elks, who have not hosted a West final or a home playoff game since 2015.
Cody Fajardo Leads the Charge With Four Touchdowns
Quarterback Cody Fajardo was the driving force behind the Edmonton victory, contributing both in the air and on the ground. Fajardo ran for two touchdowns and passed for two more, completing 12 of 17 attempts for 120 yards. His performance was pivotal in helping the Elks (13-4) rally and clinch the highly sought-after west final home field advantage.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers Fall Short in Playoff Pursuit
While the Elks celebrated, the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (8-9) missed their opportunity to secure a playoff spot with the loss. Quarterback Zach Collaros completed 28 of 33 passes for 331 yards and two touchdowns. Despite the strong showing, the Bombers' playoff hopes now hinge on other results, specifically needing a Calgary loss to B.C. on Saturday to keep their hopes alive.
Game Highlights: Touchdowns and Turnarounds
The game got off to a fast start, with Winnipeg striking first after a missed field goal, as Zach Collaros connected with Nic Demski for a 13-yard touchdown pass. Edmonton responded with an 18-yard field goal from Vincent Blanchard. Kenny Logan Jr.'s interception at the Winnipeg nine-yard line set up a Fajardo touchdown pass to ShunDerrick Powell, ending Fajardo’s three-game streak without a passing touchdown. Winnipeg answered with a 32-yard touchdown pass to Ontaria Wilson and a one-yard rushing touchdown by backup quarterback Bryce Perkins.
Momentum shifted late in the first half when Montrell Washington’s 65-yard kickoff return enabled the Elks to convert a four-yard touchdown pass from Fajardo to Austin Mack, cutting the deficit to 21-17 at halftime. Edmonton capitalized after the break, with Fajardo adding a one-yard touchdown plunge and a subsequent single, edging ahead.
Late Game Developments and Final Moments
Sergio Castillo narrowed the gap for Winnipeg with a 23-yard field goal, but a failed 55-yard attempt soon after kept the deficit. Blanchard extended Edmonton’s lead with a 52-yard field goal. With just 1:39 remaining, Fajardo scored again on a two-yard rushing touchdown, sealing the Elks’ lead. Castillo's late 53-yard field goal brought the final score to 35-27.
Notable Achievements and Upcoming Games
The Elks have now claimed their third consecutive win over the Blue Bombers this season, with previous victories of 23-18 and 22-18. The last time Edmonton swept Winnipeg in a three-game series was in 1979. Nic Demski notched his 47th career touchdown reception, tying him with Kenny Lawler among active players.
Looking ahead, Winnipeg will play their final regular season game on the road against the B.C. Lions next Friday. Edmonton will close out their regular season in Saskatchewan, facing the Roughriders next Saturday.
Source: cbc.ca.
