The Edmonton Eskimos, the only team in the league boasting a perfect record, take over top spot in the CFL Power Rankings from the Calgary Stampeders.
Even though the Eskimos suffered a loss in their offensive backfield, and are still facing injury issues at linebacker, they have managed to avoid pitfalls in the early going, and that's been enough to get into the rankings penthouse.
As we get further into the season, there is a little room for movement, and a few teams shuffled spots this week. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers go from six to four after their win against Toronto, and the Montreal Alouettes jump from eight to six after upsetting Calgary.
Heading the other way, the still-winless Ottawa Redblacks drop from five to eight. They are better than their record indicates, but results have to show at some point.
Edmonton Eskimos
This Week: 1 | Last Week: 2 | Record: 3-0
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PF
76
-
PA
67
-
DIFF
+9
-
YDS/GM
378.3
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YDSA/GM
321.0
A two-point home win over Ottawa isn't exactly praise-worthy, so this isn't exactly moving to number one with a bullet, but the Eskimos have won all three of their games and got 124 yards from running back Travon Van, taking over for an injured John White in the backfield.
Key Injuries: LB Cory Greenwood (knee), J.C. Sherritt (Achilles), RB John White (knee), LB Adam Konar (calf).
B.C. Lions
This Week: 3 | Last Week: 3 | Record: 3-1
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PF
119
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PA
87
-
DIFF
+32
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YDS/GM
394.5
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YDSA/GM
374.0
For most teams in the league, losing the starting quarterback could be a devastating blow, but the Lions managed to keep on rolling with Travis Lulay, who completed more than 80% of his passes, for 436 yards and three touchdowns, and adding another on the ground. It's been five years since Lulay was throwing for 4,000-plus yards, but if he can keep the Lions afloat while Jennings is out, that's a luxury.
Key Injuries: QB Jonathon Jennings (shoulder).
Scott Cullen can be reached at scott.cullen@bellmedia.ca