A Dominant Performance in Calgary

CALGARY — Nathan Rourke and the BC Lions laid waste to the Calgary Stampeders, showcasing an incredible display of skill on enemy turf. In a stunning 52-23 victory, Rourke not only obliterated the competition but also etched his name into the CFL history books by breaking the record for passing yards by a Canadian in a single season.

Rourke's Hat Trick Highlights the Match

Rourke was nearly unstoppable, completing 20 of 24 passes for a whopping 331 yards, along with two stunning touchdown throws. But he didn’t just shine in the air—he rushed for three touchdowns himself, including a dazzling 26-yard sprint early in the first quarter, proving he’s a dual-threat quarterback.

Supporting Cast Steps Up

Keon Hatcher Sr. was Rourke’s favorite target, snagging eight receptions for 147 yards. Not to be outdone, rookie running back Zander Horvath filled in capably for the injured James Butler, rushing for 152 yards and a touchdown, capped off by a breathtaking 72-yard run late in the game that sealed the deal for the Lions.

Defensive Dominance

The BC defense was relentless, forcing two early interceptions off Calgary’s Vernon Adams Jr. The Stampeders struggled to find their rhythm, only managing to score two touchdowns and failing to find the end zone in the first half. Adams Jr., who faced a tough reunion against the Lions after being traded, was sidelined due to an injury after tossing two picks.

A Record-Breaking Beginning

The game started with a bang as Rourke quickly reached a milestone. After a couple of impressive completions to Hatcher Sr. and Justin McInnis, Rourke connected for a record-breaking 33-yard pass to Hatcher Sr., leading to his first rushing touchdown of the night, giving BC an early lead.

Unstoppable Offense

The Lions weren’t done. After getting a takeaway from Adams Jr., they scored again with a 14-yard pass from Rourke to Mascoli, bringing the score to 14-0. Rourke's dazzling 26-yard rush followed, extending their lead to 21-0.

Stampeders Manage a Response

Calgary finally responded with a nine-play drive that ended in a field goal, but the momentum didn’t last long. The Lions quickly answered back, with Rourke throwing a 35-yard touchdown to McInnis, making it 28-3.

Injuries and Setbacks

The second half saw a significant shake-up as Adams Jr. left the game after a head injury. Despite this setback, the Stampeders managed to fight back with a touchdown from Quincy Vaughn, but it was too little, too late.

The Lions Keep Roaring

Rourke wasn’t finished either. He rushed for his third touchdown of the night, bringing the score to 35-14. The Lions continued to dominate, adding a field goal and later another touchdown from McInnis, plus a staggering 70-yard score from Horvath, solidifying their commanding victory.

Looking Ahead

As the Stampeders gear up to face the Alouettes next week in Montreal, the BC Lions will be seeking to continue their winning streak against the Toronto Argonauts at home. With Rourke at the helm, the future looks bright for BC.