Blue Bombers blitz Elks 27-14 for sixth straight win – Edmonton

Tre Ford’s return as the Edmonton Elks starting quarterback did not go as planned on Saturday night.

Ford lost a fumble and threw two interceptions as the West Division-leading Winnipeg Blue Bombers defeated the Elks 27-14 at Commonwealth Stadium. The Blue Bombers (8-6) have now won six games in a row, shutting down the CFL’s top scoring offense.

The Elks suffered only their second loss in seven games, dropping to a 5-9 record.

With the score tied 10-10 in the fourth quarter, Ford’s pass was intercepted by Blue Bombers linebacker Michael Ayers, leading to a crucial touchdown. Brady Oliveira’s strong run and subsequent touchdown put the Blue Bombers ahead for good.

Oliveira also scored another late touchdown on a five-yard run up the middle.

Oliveira rushed for 127 yards on 18 carries, while the Elks’ Justin Rankin had an impressive 157 yards on 14 attempts.

Ford completed 10 passes on 17 attempts for 131 yards, while Winnipeg’s Zach Collaros went 19-for-27 for 191 yards.

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Ford returned as the Elks starting quarterback after recovering from a rib injury. After losing seven games in a row to start the season, Ford replaced McLeod-Bethel Thompson as the starter. Ford started two games before getting injured, allowing Bethel-Thompson to lead the team to a 3-1 record in his absence. However, the Elks’ coach decided to go back to Ford for the game against Winnipeg.

After Ford’s struggles, Bethel-Thompson returned as the Elks quarterback in the fourth quarter but was unable to make a significant impact.

The game picked up in the second half following a forgettable first half, which ended with a 3-0 score in favor of Winnipeg.

Sergio Castillo scored a 49-yard field goal for the Bombers, and both defenses dominated the first half. Ford’s fumble and interceptions added to the Elks’ woes.

The Bombers improved their offense in the second half, culminating in a touchdown pass from Collaros to Ontaria Wilson. Ford responded with a spectacular flea-flicker play leading to a touchdown pass to Geno Lewis.

Boris Bede’s field goals tied and extended the game, while Castillo sealed the victory with a late field goal.

NOTES

Elks linebacker Nyles Morgan reached 300 career tackles in the CFL. Elk Leon O’Neal Jr. was ejected for rough play in the third quarter. The Blue Bombers have now won 10 consecutive games against the Elks.

UP NEXT

Winnipeg and Edmonton will face each other again in the Manitoba capital on Friday.

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