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- calendar_today October 10, 2026
Edmonton Elks Clinch Home Playoff Spot with Win Over Hamilton
The Edmonton Elks are set to bring playoff football back to Commonwealth Stadium for the first time in over a decade. The team secured a home game in the CFL playoffs after defeating the Hamilton Tiger-Cats 27-12 on Friday night, marking a significant moment for Edmonton football fans and the franchise.
Key Fourth-Quarter Performance Secures Victory
Quarterback Cody Fajardo played a pivotal role in the win, alongside Zach Mathis and ShunDerrick Powell, each scoring fourth-quarter touchdowns. Their efforts powered the Elks, now boasting a 12-4 record in the 2026 CFL season, to an unassailable lead. Mathis made a standout play with a 48-yard interception return for a touchdown, intercepting a pass from punter Nik Constantinou to Tyler Ternowski. Fajardo himself scored on a one-yard run, while Powell sealed the win with a five-yard rushing touchdown late in the game.
Playoff Drought Ends at Commonwealth Stadium
The upcoming postseason game will be the Elks' first home playoff appearance at Commonwealth Stadium since defeating the Calgary Stampeders in the 2015 West Division final. That year, Edmonton went on to win the Grey Cup against Ottawa. The Elks’ last playoff appearance was in 2019, but it has taken until 2026 for playoff football to return to their home field.
Reactions from Players and Coaches
Cody Fajardo emphasized that the team's goals extend beyond hosting a playoff game, stating, "We have an end goal that's bigger than just hosting a playoff game. We've got to find a way like we did tonight." He also highlighted the resilience of the Elks, noting the challenges posed by Hamilton despite the Tiger-Cats' struggles this season. Head coach Mark Kilam praised the team's ability to perform late in games, saying, "We've been finding ways to make plays late in the game and that's something we take pride in."
Game Highlights and Turning Points
The contest featured strong defensive performances, with both teams combining for 18 punts, and Edmonton’s defense contributing key stops. Key moments included Mathis's interception return for a touchdown and Isaiah Wooden's 87-yard kickoff return for Hamilton, bringing the score closer before Edmonton pulled away. Hamilton quarterback Harrison Frost completed 21-of-36 passes for 221 yards, while Fajardo recorded 16 completions on 25 attempts for 229 yards.
Looking Ahead to the Final Games of the Regular Season
With their win, the Elks remain atop the West Division, ahead of the B.C. Lions. Edmonton can secure first place by winning one of their final two regular-season games, facing the Winnipeg Blue Bombers next Friday and the Saskatchewan Roughriders on October 24. Hamilton, now eliminated from playoff contention, will have a bye-week before facing the Ottawa Redblacks.
Elks’ Strong 2026 Campaign
This season marks a reversal of fortunes for Edmonton, who finished last in the West Division the previous year with a 7-11 record. Now, with their 12th win and a home playoff game secured, the Elks set their sights even higher as the 2026 CFL playoffs approach at Commonwealth Stadium.
Source: cbc.ca.
