The Edmonton Elks head to the nation's capital on Friday to face the Ottawa Redblacks.
Ottawa will be missing starting quarterback Dru Brown, which is why my Elks vs. Redblacks predictions are betting on a lower-scoring game.
Here are my best free CFL picks for August 22.
Elks vs Redblacks prediction
My Elks vs Redblacks pick: Under 53.5 (-110 at BET99)
The Edmonton Elks have a brutal pass defense, but the Ottawa Redblacks won't be able to take advantage with quarterback Dru Brown sidelined by a knee injury.
Backup QB Dustin Crum is mobile and was solid in relief last week, but he isn't a good downfield passer. Ottawa has also struggled to establish the run behind a banged-up line. That doesn't bode well for the Redblacks against an Elks defensive front that's been solid against the run and generated pressure last week.
Edmonton's offense has been more efficient since Cody Fajardo took over at pivot. That said, the Elks have a weak WR corps and poor pass protection, which has led to them relying on short passes to RB Justin Rankin.
A lack of big plays downfield and a slower tempo have resulted in the Under cashing in five straight games for Edmonton. With the Under also hitting in Ottawa's last three games at home, the total looks too high at 53.5.
Elks vs Redblacks same-game parlay (SGP)
Under 53.5
Elks ML
This line has swung 4.5 points from the opening line of Elks +1.5. I'm not sold on the Elks as a -3 fave, but I think they come away with the win.
After all, they are trending in the right direction and have the superior QB in Fajardo. They are also much healthier than the Redblacks, who are dealing with multiple injuries on the offensive line and in their secondary.
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Elks vs Redblacks odds
Elks vs Redblacks live odds
Elks vs Redblacks opening odds
- Spread: Edmonton +1.5 | Ottawa -1.5
- Moneyline: Edmonton +100 | Ottawa -130
- Over/Under: Over 53.5 | Under 53.5
Elks vs Redblacks trend
The Under is 5-0 in Edmonton's last five games.
How to watch Elks vs Redblacks and game info
| Location | TD Place Stadium, Ottawa, ON |
| Date | Friday, August 22, 2025 |
| Kick-off | 7:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | TSN |
Elks vs Redblacks key injuries
Elks: Nick Anderson LB (Out), Devodric Bynum DB (Out).
Redblacks: Dru Brown QB (Out), Bralon Addison WR (Out), Eric Starczala C (Out), Peter Godber C (Out), Zack Pelehos RT (Out), Devonte Dedmon RB/KR (Out), Adrian Frye DB (Out), Bennett Williams S (Out), Robert Priester DB (Out), Amari Henderson DB (Out).
Elks vs Redblacks weather
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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