Saskatchewan Roughriders Secure Playoff Berth After Victory Over Edmonton Elks

The Saskatchewan Roughriders triumphantly returned to the Canadian Football League (CFL) post-season for the first time since 2021, following a hard-fought 28-24 victory over the Edmonton Elks. The match took place on Saturday at Commonwealth Stadium, allowing the Roughriders to achieve an 8-7-1 record and secure their playoff position.

An intense fourth quarter saw Edmonton poised to take the lead, trailing by merely four points. However, their prospects were thwarted by a decisive fumble forced by a Roughriders’ defensive player, sealing the victory for Saskatchewan and eliminating Edmonton from playoff contention.

Trevor Harris, the Roughriders’ quarterback, delivered a prolific performance with 358 passing yards, including two touchdown passes. Despite his efforts, he also tossed two interceptions, yet backup played a critical role by adding a rushing touchdown to power the Roughriders’ offense.

On the other side, Edmonton quarterback McLeod Bethel-Thompson threw for 379 yards with two touchdowns and two interceptions in a valiant but ultimately unsuccessful effort to mount a comeback.

Saskatchewan’s victory not only secured their playoff spot but also guaranteed a post-season berth for the BC Lions, who had defeated the Calgary Stampeders the previous day.

The game opened with the Elks scoring a single on their first drive, only to be quickly countered by the Roughriders’ 88-yard touchdown pass from Harris to receiver Emilus. The match remained tightly contested as both teams exchanged leads through long passes and strategic runs.

The Roughriders stabilized their advantage heading into halftime, adding a field goal after a timely interception. They continued to expand their lead in the third quarter until Edmonton fought back to level the score. However, Saskatchewan regained the lead after impressive plays from Kian Schaffer-Baker and Johnson, giving them a seven-point cushion.

Late in the game, despite an interception that gave the Elks a chance to advance, a crucial fumble forced by Saskatchewan’s defense ended Edmonton’s playoff hopes. Harris and his teammates were able to sustain possession, concluding the game and ensuring their advancement to the playoffs.

The Elks will next travel to Calgary to face the Stampeders on October 12, while the Roughriders will host the BC Lions on the same day, in a critical match that could determine second place in the West Division.