The Rouge et Noir’s dreadful season continues

The Edmonton Elks have reached a major milestone in their 2026 season in the Canadian Football League (CFL).

Thanks to a 27-12 victory over the Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Friday night, the Alberta team secured a spot among the top two teams in the West Division and will therefore host a playoff game at Commonwealth Stadium for the first time since 2015.

This victory is a significant reward for a team that enjoyed a productive regular season. With a 12-4 record, the Edmonton Elks will be able to count on the support of their fans in the playoffs as the most important games of the season begin.

The last playoff game played in Edmonton was back in 2015. That year, the team defeated the Calgary Stampeders in the Western Final before winning the Grey Cup against the Ottawa REDBLACKS.

The return of the playoffs to Commonwealth Stadium is therefore a much-anticipated moment for fans of the Alberta team.

Cody Fajardo and the Defense Make the Difference

Quarterback Cody Fajardo contributed to his team's success by completing 16 of 25 passes for 229 yards. He also scored a rushing touchdown, allowing Edmonton to take control of the game in the fourth quarter.

After three relatively close quarters, the Elks finally managed to pull away thanks to a decisive offensive drive. Wide receiver Zach Mathis scored a touchdown after intercepting a pass from the Tiger-Cats' kicker, who was attempting a fake punt.

ShunDerrick Powell then added a rushing touchdown to seal the victory for the Elks.

The defense also played a pivotal role. Malik Carney recorded four quarterback sacks, tying the team record for the most sacks in a single game. The Elks also capitalized on five turnovers, compared to none for Edmonton, according to the game's final statistics.

First Place in the West Is Still Within Reach

Although their spot in the top two is now secured, the Elks can still aim for the top of their division. A win or a loss by the British Columbia Lions in their Friday night game against the Ottawa REDBLACKS would allow Edmonton to clinch first place in the West.

Finishing in first place would give the Elks an added advantage: they would host the Western Conference Final, scheduled for November 7, without having to play in the semifinals.

Otherwise, Edmonton would host a Western Conference semifinal game at home.

The Edmonton Elks, heading into the playoffs, still have an important goal to achieve before the end of the regular season. Their next game is scheduled for October 16, when they will host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.

After more than a decade without a home playoff game, Edmonton can now prepare to experience the atmosphere of the playoffs in front of its fans once again. The Alberta team will look to build on its momentum and turn this playoff berth into another opportunity to compete for the Grey Cup.

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