Ottawa RedBlacks vs. Edmonton Elks Picks and Prediction for Thursday, July 9, 2026
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The Ottawa RedBlacks visit the Edmonton Elks on Thursday at 9:00 PM ET at Play Alberta Field at Commonwealth Stadium. Ottawa is 0-4 and sits last in the East Division, while Edmonton is 3-1 and ranks second in the West Division. The Elks won the first meeting between these teams 29-21 on June 6 and have covered the spread in three of their first four games. Ottawa has been more competitive over the last two weeks but is still searching for its first victory. Check out today's free CFL picks.
Ottawa RedBlacks Preview
Ottawa's offense is averaging 25.5 points per game behind quarterback Jake Maier, who has completed 97 of 145 passes (66.9%) for 1,079 yards with six touchdowns and three interceptions. Justin Hardy has been Maier's favorite target with 18 catches for 261 yards and two touchdowns, while Eugene Lewis has added 160 receiving yards. The rushing attack has struggled, averaging only 65.5 yards per game, with Greg Bell leading the team with 114 rushing yards on 29 carries. Ottawa has shown improvement through the air in recent weeks, scoring 35 points against Montreal and 22 against Saskatchewan despite both games ending in losses.
Defensively, the RedBlacks continue to face challenges after allowing 34.3 points and 429.5 total yards per game. Opponents are averaging more than 313 passing yards against Ottawa, putting constant pressure on the secondary. The defense has forced only a slight positive turnover differential and will need to generate more stops after giving up at least 27 points in every game this season.
Injuries: Michael Brodrique (Leg), Scott Hutter (Ribs), Jamie Pettway (Knee), Bennett Williams (Achilles). Several other players are questionable.
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Edmonton Elks Preview
Edmonton has been one of the CFL's most balanced offenses, averaging 27.0 points per game. Quarterback Cody Fajardo has completed 101 of 149 passes (67.8%) for 1,159 yards with six touchdowns. Justin Rankin has been outstanding on the ground, rushing for 406 yards and four touchdowns while averaging 7.7 yards per carry. Austin Mack leads the receiving corps with 20 receptions for 273 yards and three touchdowns, giving Edmonton playmakers at every level of the offense. The Elks have scored at least 23 points in every game this season.
Edmonton's defense has allowed 26.0 points per game while limiting opponents to 405.8 total yards. The Elks already held Ottawa to 302 total yards in the first meeting and have consistently played well at home, where they are 6-1 against the spread in their last seven games. After allowing 36 points to BC last week, Edmonton will be looking for a stronger defensive performance.
Injuries: Justin Pace (Foot). Several other players are questionable.
Ottawa RedBlacks vs. Edmonton Elks Prediction
Edmonton already defeated Ottawa once this season and has advantages at quarterback, running back, and on defense. The Elks have been more consistent on both sides of the ball, while Ottawa continues to struggle defensively despite recent offensive improvement. Edmonton is also playing at home, where it has covered the spread in six of its last seven games, and its balanced offensive attack should create enough big plays to control the tempo throughout the night. Final Score Prediction: Edmonton Elks win and cover ATS 32-22.
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Best Picks
- Edmonton Elks -6
- Under 57.5
