2023 Elks Season Promises Optimism with Expected Matchup Against Riders

The Edmonton Elks Look to Start the Season with a Win Against the Saskatchewan Roughriders

The Canadian Football League (CFL) is back, and every team is optimistic about their chances of making a statement this season. The Edmonton Elks are one of the youngest teams in the CFL but boast of a good mix of veterans and young players, including nine returning starters on offence and seven on defence. Despite their disappointing 4-14 record last season, the Elks are determined to turn things around this season and make a deep playoff run.

A Promising Offence

The Elks have made some significant additions to their roster, and their offensive unit looks set to deliver this season. Quarterback Taylor Cornelius is poised to have a breakout season, with a talented receiving corps. Led by East Division nominee for Most Outstanding Player, Eugene Lewis, the group includes 1,000-yard receiver Steven Dunbar Jr. and Dillon Mitchell. Furthermore, Kyran Moore will handle kick return duties for the Elks, adding an explosive dimension to their special teams.

Running back Kevin Brown is another key piece to the Elks‘ offence after recording 486 rushing yards in just seven games last season. Fullback Tanner Green will provide strong support in the run game and the Elks’ offensive line looks solid with the return of Andrew Garnett, David Foucault, Mark Korte, Tomas Jack-Kurdyla, and Josiah St. John.

A Defence with Something to Prove

Edmonton’s defence has a lot to prove after conceding an average of over 30 points per game last season. However, with the return of seven starters and the addition of quality players like A.C. Leonard and Loucheiz Purifoy, they will be looking to improve this season.

Ed Gainey, one of their returning starters on defence is excited about the new season and the team’s prospects. “We got a good bit of our core guys back from last year who are veterans and playmakers,” Gainey said. “Along with those guys, we’ve got some young guys sprinkled in, and the atmosphere is completely different. Guys are buying in and guys are believing in themselves, which is the biggest part. I’m excited to get this thing rolling and start winning, especially in our home stadium.”

A Chance for Redemption

On Sunday, August 15, the Elks will host the Saskatchewan Roughriders at The Brick Field at Commonwealth Stadium in their much-anticipated home and regular-season opener. The game presents an opportunity for the Elks, who have struggled at home recently, to snap a 17-game losing streak and send a statement to the rest of the league.

The clash against Saskatchewan Roughriders is expected to be intense and challenging, with the Riders boasting some of the league’s most experienced and accomplished players. However, the Elks have worked tirelessly in the offseason to build a formidable team, and they are ready to show their quality.

Final Thoughts

The Edmonton Elks will be hoping to start the season with a bang against the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Sunday. After a disappointing 2022 season, the team has made significant changes to its roster and looks well-positioned to compete. The offence looks like a force to be reckoned with, and the defence will be playing with a chip on their shoulder and looking for redemption.

All in all, there’s a great sense of optimism surrounding the team, and its fans are hoping for a great season ahead. Regardless of the outcome of the game on Sunday, the Elks‘ faithful will rally around their team, and we can expect an exciting and highly competitive season ahead.