VANCOUVER, BC (Eagle News) — It was fan appreciation night at BC Place Stadium as the BC Lions hosted the Edmonton Elks. The Lions took down the Elks 43-10 in what was the final game of the season for both of the non playoff clubs.
The Lions were spectacular in all facets of the game tonight, but lets start with the offense. Rookie Quarterback Nathan Rourke started for the Lions and he practically dominated all night. Aside from the two interceptions he threw, Rourke accounted for 23 completions on 34 attempts, 359 yards and a touchdown. He also added three rushing touchdowns of his own. But despite the amazing performance in his 2nd career start, in typical quarterback fashion, he reflected on some of the mistakes he made during the game.
“It wasn’t a perfect performance by any means,” said Rourke. “There were two interceptions and you can’t have that in the CFL, teams are too good.”
On the defensive side of the ball, the Lions accounted for five interceptions, three pass knockdowns and two sacks. Defensive back T.J. Lee had two interceptions of his own and when asked what this game meant to the team after a disappointing season, he let everyone know what the team was playing for.
“This is where everything came to fruition. We made a lot of plays on the ball, we gave our all and it ended up being a great result at the end of the game,” said Lee. “You’re playing for a lot of things. You’re playing for your last name.
There weren’t many punt or kick returns from the Lions special teams tonight due to all of the interceptions, but when there was, they made it count. One of the most electrifying players in the CFL, Lucky Whitehead returned punt for the lions for a 79-yard touchdown. As he crossed into the endzone, Whitehead was seen throwing up a peace sign. He was asked what that meant.
“That’s peace out, you’re not gonna catch me,” said Whitehead.
When asked if that meant he won’t be back with the Lions next season, he said, “I haven’t made that decision.”
The Lions finish the season a disappointing 5-9 but with the way the squad played tonight, there is a ton of optimism going into the offseason, and hopefully into next season.
(Eagle News Service)