The CFL preseason is a peculiar beast—a high-stakes audition disguised as a warm-up act. And this year’s opener between the Edmonton Elks and BC Lions was no exception. On paper, it’s just a tune-up game. But for the players on the fringes of the roster, it’s a make-or-break moment. What struck me most about this 34-16 Elks victory wasn’t the score itself, but the why behind it. This wasn’t a star-driven win; it was a collective statement from the underdogs.
The Backup QB Battle: More Than Just a Sideshow
Let’s start with the quarterbacks. Cody Fajardo, the Elks’ starter, barely broke a sweat with just two series. But the real story was the trio vying for the backup role: Taylor Powell, Cole Snyder, and Zach Zebrowski. Each threw a touchdown pass, each posted an efficiency rating north of 121.1. Personally, I think this is where the game’s true narrative lies. Backup QB battles are often overlooked, but they’re a microcosm of the league’s broader talent pool. What many people don’t realize is that these players are often one injury away from leading a franchise. Their performance here wasn’t just about stats—it was about proving they can handle the pressure when the lights are on.
Depth Over Flash: The Elks’ Unsung Heroes
What makes this particularly fascinating is the Elks’ depth. Twelve different players recorded a reception, and four different players scored touchdowns. Joshua Cephus, with five catches for 36 yards, stood out, but it was the variety of contributors that caught my eye. Rushawn Baker’s 47 rushing yards weren’t eye-popping, but they were steady. Defensively, Jaaron Joseph’s five tackles and Justin Pace’s sack showed a unit that’s more than just a supporting cast. If you take a step back and think about it, this is the kind of depth that can sustain a team through a grueling season.
Preseason vs. Regular Season: The Great Misunderstanding
Here’s where I’ll probably ruffle some feathers: preseason games are often dismissed as meaningless. But in my opinion, they’re anything but. Yes, the starters barely play, and the schemes are vanilla. But what this game really suggests is that the Elks have a roster bubbling with potential. Coach Mark Kilam’s post-game comments about having “so much to correct” might sound like coach-speak, but it’s actually a good sign. It means there’s raw material to work with. The Lions, on the other hand, looked flat-footed at times, and that’s a red flag for a team that’s supposed to be rebuilding.
The Carter Kettyle Moment: Why It Matters
One thing that immediately stands out is Carter Kettyle’s 58-yard touchdown. The hometown rookie’s sprint into the endzone wasn’t just a highlight—it was a symbol. Rookies in preseason games are often tentative, but Kettyle’s play was pure instinct. From my perspective, this is the kind of moment that can define a career. It’s not just about the score; it’s about the confidence it builds. What this really suggests is that the Elks might have found a diamond in the rough.
Looking Ahead: The Clarke Stadium Showdown
The Elks’ next preseason game against the Calgary Stampeders at Clarke Stadium is more than just a tune-up. Kilam’s excitement about playing there is palpable, and for good reason. The intimate setting—with stands just inches from the field—will be electric. But here’s the deeper question: Can the Elks replicate this performance against a tougher opponent? The Stampeders won’t be as forgiving as the Lions were. This raises a broader point about preseason games: they’re as much about psychological readiness as they are about physical skill.
Final Thoughts: The Preseason Paradox
If you ask me, the CFL preseason is a paradox. It’s both inconsequential and utterly crucial. It’s where careers are launched and dreams are dashed. The Elks’ win over the Lions wasn’t just a victory—it was a statement. But here’s the thing: preseason success doesn’t always translate to regular-season dominance. What it does do is set the tone. And for the Elks, that tone is one of resilience, depth, and potential.
As we head into the next game, I’ll be watching closely. Not just for the plays, but for the stories unfolding on the sidelines. Because in the CFL, the real game is often the one happening off the field.
