Vincent Blanchard’s 57-yard field goal on the final play of the game secured a dramatic 36-34 victory for the Edmonton Elks over the Saskatchewan Roughriders.The Elks, led by quarterback Cody Fajardo, who threw for 510 yards and four touchdowns, improved to 6-1, their best start since 2017.The Riders, second in the West, fell to 4-2 after a hard-fought contest.

Fajardo’s performance was pivotal, with key passes to Austin Mack, including a 57-yard reception late in the third quarter, setting up the Elks’ lead.Alex Hale’s fourth-quarter field goals kept the Riders in contention, but Blanchard’s game-winning kick sealed the win.

The game took on added significance following the recent tragic passing of Riders players Jayden Dalke and Bhishma Rajyaguru, with tributes and a moment of silence observed before kickoff.The Elks’ victory highlights their resilience and offensive firepower, while the Riders’ struggles continue despite their strong start to the season.