Elks can clinch first playoff berth in six years with win over Stampeders
Edmonton hosts Calgary on Saturday needing a win to complete a Labour Day series sweep and improve to 10-3, locking up a CFL West playoff spot.
The Edmonton Elks can clinch their first playoff berth in six seasons with a win over the Calgary Stampeders on Saturday at home. A victory would complete a two-game Labour Day series sweep, push Edmonton's record to 10-3 and secure a post-season spot for a team that has endured five straight losing seasons.
Quarterback Cody Fajardo called it a chance to "punch that playoff ticket" in front of home fans after an off-season built around that goal. Linebacker Nick Anderson said few current players have experienced a scenario like this, while running back Justin Rankin credited the turnaround to the team building trust and identity since a slow start in 2025.
Edmonton's defence has been central to the run, allowing a CFL-low 307 points this season. Head coach Mark Kilam called the unit "the backbone of our team all year." In Monday's Labour Day game in Calgary, the defence held the line while trailing 25-14 after three quarters before the offence scored 24 points in the fourth quarter for a 38-28 win.
Team president and CEO Chris Morris said clinching a berth would be a major accomplishment for the organization and community. Calgary (5-7) is expected to have wide receiver Reggie Begelton back for his season debut, his first game in 15 months after a broken right leg last June.
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