The Edmonton Elks have changed their mind when it comes to their kicking situation, as the inconsistent Boris Bede will be back in the lineup for Saturday’s rematch with the Calgary Stampeders.
The Elks paid a significant sum to bring in the 34-year-old East Division all-star on a two-year contract this offseason, but he was named a healthy scratch in the Labour Day Classic after missing a critical kick in a tight Week 12 loss to the Montreal Alouettes. Through 11 games, Bede has connected on just 18-of-25 field goal attempts and his 72 percent conversion rate is the worst in the CFL, as well as the lowest in his career since 2016.
37-year-old Global kicker Dean Faithfull will return to the practice roster after handling the duties last week, going one-for-two with a make of 41 yards and a miss from 29 yards out. The former British soccer player was the Elks’ primary placekicker as a rookie last year, connecting on 22-of-28 attempts for a conversion rate of just 78.6 percent.
Also absent from the lineup this week will be rookie American defensive end Noah Taylor (shoulder), who has been placed on the six-game injured list. Through seven games, the UNC product has 12 defensive tackles and two sacks. Global linebacker Les Maruo will fill the vacant spot in the lineup.
The Edmonton Elks (4-8) will host the Calgary Stampeders (4-7) on Saturday, September 7 at 7:00 p.m. EDT.
