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- calendar_today November 6, 2026
B.C. Lions Prepare for High-Stakes West Final
The B.C. Lions, led by quarterback Nathan Rourke, are focused as they gear up for the CFL’s West Division final on Saturday against the Edmonton Elks. This marks the fourth time in five years that the Lions have advanced to this stage, but the team is intent on achieving a different outcome than in recent attempts.
Nathan Rourke Emphasizes Present Moment
Despite previous disappointments in the West final, Rourke is maintaining a forward-looking approach. “I think every moment deserves your full attention, and so I think we’re looking at it from that perspective,” Rourke explained. He acknowledged the strength of the Elks, who finished the season with a 13-5 record, and expressed that the Lions (10-8) are aware of the challenge ahead: “(Edmonton) is a very good football team who’s earned their right to be in the position that they are in, and we’ve got to get through them.”
Learning from Past Experiences
The Lions have reached the West final multiple times in recent years but have fallen short of victory. Last year, a narrow 24-21 defeat by the Saskatchewan Roughriders ended their playoff run, with the Roughriders going on to win the Grey Cup. In 2023, it was the Winnipeg Blue Bombers who stopped B.C.’s advance. Reflecting on those outcomes, Rourke commented, “I think we can definitely look at experiences of the past to try to learn from them. But at the same time, I think we’ve got to realize that you can never step in the same river twice. Things have changed, and I think you’ve got to accept each moment as it is.”
B.C. Lions’ Momentum from West Semifinal
B.C. heads into the matchup with momentum on their side. In the West semifinal, the Lions overcame a 14-point deficit to defeat the Saskatchewan Roughriders 33-26. Rourke delivered a strong performance, completing 21 of 32 passes for 366 yards and three touchdowns, contributing significantly to the comeback victory.
Looking Ahead to the West Final
With Saturday’s game taking place in Edmonton, the Lions face a formidable opponent in the Elks. The Lions’ focus remains on the immediate challenge rather than dwelling on previous seasons. The outcome of the West final will determine who advances to compete for the Grey Cup, adding to the high stakes and intensity of the upcoming matchup.
Source: globalnews.ca.
