Lions Surge Past Elks 37-24; Carter’s Interception Key Moment

UPDATE: The B.C. Lions delivered a stunning performance, defeating the Edmonton Elks 37-24 on October 17, 2025, to eliminate them from playoff contention. This decisive victory was powered by an electrifying interception return for a touchdown by cornerback Robert Carter Jr., who picked off a Cody Fajardo pass and sprinted 50 yards to the end zone early in the third quarter.

The Lions, now on a five-game winning streak, improved their record to 10-7, securing second place in the CFL West. Meanwhile, the Elks dropped to 7-10 and saw their playoff hopes dashed. Carter’s game-changing play shifted momentum, giving the Lions a crucial 17-10 lead shortly after they trailed 10-2.

“I didn’t need to throw the ball into the stands,” Carter reflected after the game. “I actually regret that now.” His coach, Buck Pierce, hailed the interception as the turning point, stating, “A great read and jump. Once he makes that play, nobody is going to catch him.”

In addition to Carter’s heroics, Lions quarterback Nathan Rourke showcased his athleticism with a remarkable 70-yard touchdown run, extending the lead to 27-10 after he evaded defenders. Rourke completed 21 of 32 passes for 338 yards, contributing significantly to the Lions’ victory.

The Elks initially took control of the game, but the Lions’ defense forced critical turnovers. “We didn’t make enough plays,” lamented Edmonton head coach Mark Kilam. “The pick-six hurt us, the big quarterback run—those are big momentum plays.”

Lions running back James Butler added to the score with a rushing touchdown and a two-point conversion, finishing the night with 15 carries for 82 yards. The Lions also benefitted from a safety when linebacker Ben Hladlik sacked Fajardo in the end zone.

Despite Fajardo’s 230 passing yards and a late touchdown run, the Elks could not recover from the Lions’ explosive plays. The Elks’ last-minute efforts included a touchdown from running back Javon Leake and a field goal by Vincent Blanchard, but it was too little, too late.

Earlier on the same day, the Saskatchewan Roughriders narrowly lost to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, leaving the Lions in a strong position heading into the final week of the season. If the Lions win their next game, they will secure a home playoff spot.

As the Lions focus on their ultimate goal of lifting the Grey Cup, Carter expressed the team’s determination: “It feels really good, but we’ve set a goal. Making the playoffs is not where we want to finish.”

Stay tuned for more updates as the CFL season heads into its final stretch.