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The Edmonton Elks are gearing up for a pivotal matchup against the Toronto Argonauts this Saturday at Commonwealth Stadium, but running back Justin Rankin’s recent performance raises concerns about the team’s offensive consistency. Despite a promising start to the season, Rankin’s rushing numbers have dipped significantly, coinciding with a troubling stretch for the Elks.
A Promising Start
Rankin began the season with impressive form, eclipsing the 100-yard rushing mark in four of Edmonton’s first five games. His standout performance came on July 9, when he rushed for 107 yards and scored twice in a commanding 40-17 victory over the Ottawa Redblacks. During that period, he consistently demonstrated his ability to dominate the ground game, establishing himself as a vital part of the Elks’ offensive strategy.
However, the only game in which Rankin did not record at least 10 carries during that successful stretch was a disappointing loss to the B.C. Lions, where he managed just 19 yards on seven attempts. This lack of touches appears to be a troubling trend for the Elks moving forward.
Recent Struggles
Since the win over Ottawa, Rankin’s opportunities have diminished. He has managed more than 10 carries only once in the last four games, where he rushed for a mere 39 yards against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. In their most recent outing, a high-scoring defeat to the Montreal Alouettes, Rankin carried the ball seven times, generating 62 yards but failing to find the end zone.
As the season progresses, the Elks’ offence has become increasingly reliant on quarterback Cody Fajardo, who threw for an astonishing 510 yards in a recent game, overshadowing Rankin’s contributions. This shift in offensive dynamics raises questions about the balance of the Elks’ play-calling and the effectiveness of their running game.
The Road Ahead
Despite his recent challenges, Rankin’s season totals remain impressive. He has accrued 651 rushing yards on 101 attempts, averaging an impressive 6.4 yards per carry, alongside seven touchdowns. Additionally, his contributions in the passing game cannot be overlooked, as he has registered 37 receptions for 418 yards and a touchdown.
This weekend, Edmonton will host the Argonauts, who are coming off a narrow victory over the Calgary Stampeders. The Elks will be keen to harness their home advantage, having won three of their first four games at Commonwealth Stadium this season. Historically, the home team has triumphed in the last four meetings between these two sides, adding an extra layer of confidence for the Elks.
The Argonauts Challenge
Toronto is entering this matchup with momentum, having secured a thrilling 33-30 victory against Calgary, despite quarterback Chad Kelly’s struggles with four interceptions. However, Kelly’s ability to lead a game-winning drive has highlighted his resilience, which could pose a significant challenge for Edmonton’s defence, especially as Tyrell Ford leads the league in interceptions.
This game not only carries important playoff implications but also presents an opportunity for Rankin to reclaim his form. With the Elks allowing an average of 36.7 points per game in their last three outings, a return to a balanced offensive attack could be crucial for their success.
Why it Matters
As the CFL season approaches its climax, the Edmonton Elks must find a way to reinvigorate Justin Rankin’s rushing game. His ability to perform at a high level is essential for the team’s overall success and could be the difference between a playoff berth and an early exit. The outcome of Saturday’s game against the Argonauts could set the tone for the remainder of the season, making it imperative for the Elks to strike a balance between their ground and aerial offensive strategies. The stakes are high, and as history has shown, home advantage could play a decisive role in this clash of Canadian football titans.
