Two-Game Eastern Road Trip Starts in Winnipeg on Friday
Published on August 4, 2011 under Canadian Football League (CFL)
Edmonton Elks News Release
The CFL's two best teams and two best stories of 2011 meet for the first time this season and for the last time in the 'Peg. The undefeated Eskimos (5-0), led by CFL passing leader Ricky Ray and top receiver Fred Stamps, will put their potent offence up against the 'Bombers rock solid defence that features Odell Willis, the league's sack leader.
With 1,492 yds passing, 10 TDs and just one interception in 152 passing attempts in five games, Ray is clearly thriving under Marcus Crandell's new offence. The nine-year Eskimo, along with teammate Jerome Messam, were named Gibson's Finest CFL Players of the Month for July as the top Offensive and Canadian players respectively.
Edmonton's offensive line, stellar during the first four games, was under attack in last week's win over Toronto. A return to form is needed against Winnipeg who has surrendered just 99 points thus far.
Defensively, the Esks will make some moves up front as Joe Sykes returns from an ankle injury. Newcomer Marcus Howard, an ex-Indianapolis Colt, is expected to draw into the lineup.
On offense, newcomer Reggie McNeal, and ex-Argo who signed as a free agent last week, will replace Ray Fisher who was released Sunday along with RB Arkee Whitlock. Running back Daniel Porter returns to the roster after sitting out the past two weeks.
It's the last visit to Canad Inns Stadium, a place where wins have been hard to come by over the years. With just two victories in their last 12 trips to the Manitoba capital, the Esks won't be shedding any tears when the wrecking ball arrives at 1465 Maroons Road.
Edmonton won't enjoy home cooking for awhile. The team stays in Winnipeg until next Wednesday before flying to Montreal to face the Alouettes on Thursday, August 11th.
Canadian Football League Stories from August 4, 2011
- Another CFL Record for Calvillo - CFL
- Two-Game Eastern Road Trip Starts in Winnipeg on Friday - Edmonton Elks
- Lions and Roughriders Tangle Friday in Crucial West Division Tilt - B.C. Lions
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