SPORTS WITH HARP: Lions Back to .500 with Statement Win in Edmonton

15 July 2025

BY HARPREET PANDHER

Broadcaster on Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi and

BC Lions Football Punjabi

IG/X/TikTok: @harppandher

THE BC Lions delivered their most complete performance of the season Sunday night, powering past the Edmonton Elks 32-14 at Commonwealth Stadium to even their record at 3-3. The victory also clinches the season series over the Elks, with one meeting still to come on October 17 in Vancouver.

Fast Start Fuels Road Win
Quarterback Nathan Rourke was in complete command from the outset, completing 26 of 30 passes for 345 yards, two touchdowns, and one interception. He spread the ball efficiently, with Keon Hatcher Sr. leading the way with nine catches for 130 yards. Stanley Berryhill III hauled in six receptions for 80 yards and a touchdown, while Jevon Cottoy added six grabs for 74 yards and a score of his own.

James Butler carried the load on the ground with a career-high 30 carries for 172 rushing yards and a touchdown, also chipping in with three receptions for 35 yards to cap off a dominant night for the Lions’ balanced offence.

On defence, Garry Peters anchored the secondary with five tackles and a key interception. Defensive end Mathieu Betts recorded a sack to go along with two tackles, while linebackers Micah Awe and Josh Woods combined for five tackles. Robert Carter chipped in with two tackles as the Lions’ defence limited Edmonton to just one offensive touchdown.

Aside from a first-half interception that led to the Elks’ only major, the Lions played clean, complimentary football on both sides of the ball. Even a costly illegal block that erased a punt return touchdown by Seven McGee didn’t slow them down, as BC responded with a 101-yard touchdown drive to close out the half.

Looking Ahead – Watermelon Smash at BC Place
Now sitting at 3-3, BC remains firmly in the West Division playoff picture, just behind Calgary and Saskatchewan at 4-1. They’ll look to build on this momentum with a massive showdown at home against the Roughriders next Saturday — and it’s not just any game.

It’s the event of the summer: the BC Lions Watermelon Smash! Riders fans will be showing up in droves, and Lions fans are encouraged to do the same for what’s always a thrilling rivalry matchup. From the pregame BC Lions Backyard Bash on Terry Fox Plaza to the on-field fireworks, this is a night you won’t want to miss.

For the first time ever, fans can smash watermelons deemed unfit for stores — all in support of the Surrey Food Bank. In return for a donation, you can join in the melon-smashing fun before the game. And don’t worry, nothing goes to waste — the smashed melons will be donated to local farms to feed some happy pigs!

Tickets start at just $19, so grab your gear and bring the energy. Kickoff is set for next Saturday July 19^th at BC Place.