The Calgary Stampeders (4-6) look to snap a two-game losing streak as they host the Edmonton Elks (3-8) in the annual Labour Day Classic at McMahon Stadium. This marks the 59th Labour Day meeting between these Alberta rivals, with Calgary holding a slim 31-30-1 edge in the series.
Game Details:
• Date/Location: Monday, September 4 / McMahon Stadium, Calgary, AB
• Kickoff Time: 4:30 PM ET, 2:30 PM MT
• Channel: TSN (Canada), CFL+ (USA)
Odds:
• Spread: Calgary -3 (-110), Edmonton +3 (-110)
• Moneyline: Calgary -165, Edmonton +140
• Over/Under: 51 points
Calgary Stampeders Overview:
The Stampeders enter this pivotal divisional matchup having lost two straight and sitting fourth in the West at 4-6. Calgary trails both BC and Winnipeg by two points and Saskatchewan by three points in a tight playoff race. A win over Edmonton would pull the Stamps even with the Saskatchewan.
Calgary’s offence has struggled with consistency this season, ranking 7th in points per game (21.2) and 6th in net offence (338.2 yards per game). Quarterback Jake Maier has passed for 2,624 yards with 14 touchdowns and 7 interceptions but is coming off a three-interception performance in last week’s loss to BC.
The Stampeders defence has been a bright spot, allowing the third-fewest points per game (23.3) and ranking second in sacks (32). Defensive end Folarin Orimolade leads the unit with 7 sacks on the season.
Key Players:
1. Jake Maier (QB)
• 2,624 passing yards, 14 TDs, 7 INTs
• Needs a bounce-back game after 3 INTs last week
2. Reggie Begelton (WR)
• 50 receptions, 569 yards, 3 TDs
• Coming off 9 catches, 112 yards vs BC
3. Folarin Orimolade (DE)
• Team-leading 7 sacks
• Anchors Calgary’s strong pass rush
4. Micah Awe (LB)
• Team-high 58 defensive tackles
• Key run stopper in middle of defence
Keys to the Game:
1. Protect Jake Maier
• Offensive line must give Maier time to operate
2. Establish the run game
• Hill and Logan need to be productive on the ground
3. Pressure Tre Ford
• Force Edmonton’s young QB into mistakes
4. Win turnover battle
• Calgary is -5 in turnover ratio this season
Injury Report:
Depth Chart:
Score Prediction:
Calgary Stampeders 27, Edmonton Elks 23
The Stampeders have dominated this rivalry recently, winning 10 of the last 11 Labour Day Classics. While Edmonton has shown improvement, Calgary’s home field advantage and desperation for a win should be enough to secure a close victory in this all-important divisional matchup.
