Lions beat Elks 36-24 for first CFL win of the season

7/5/2026

B.C. Lions beat Elks as James Butler runs for 135 yards and two TDs See how Rourke, Horvath and a clutch defense sealed B.C.'s first win

James Butler led the B.C. Lions to their first win of the CFL season on Saturday, rushing for 135 yards and two touchdowns in a 3624 victory over the previously unbeaten Edmonton Elks at the Apple Bowl in Kelowna, British Columbia. Nathan Rourke passed for more than 300 yards, while Zander Horvath added two scores and Sean Whyte kicked three firsthalf field goals to help B.C. build a halftime lead. The Lions improved to 13 and head into their bye week with momentum after a balanced offensive performance. Edmonton quarterback Cody Fajardo threw three touchdown passes but also had three interceptions, and the Elks were held to a field goal in the second half. B.C. also made key defensive plays late, including a goalline interception by Darnell Sankey, to secure the win in front of a sellout crowd.