For years, the Battle of Alberta felt less like a rivalry and more like a reminder of how far the Edmonton Elks had fallen. Calgary was the better run and dependable team for a decade or more. Edmonton kept changing coaches and quarterbacks while the losses piled up.

After what happened on Labour Day, I think that balance is starting to sway in Edmonton's favour.

The Elks looked finished when they fell behind early in the first half at McMahon Stadium. Instead, they stormed back to win 38-28, scoring 24 unanswered points over the final quarter. That was not just another win. It was the kind of comeback we used to expect from the Green & Gold teams of old.

Cody Fajardo did not have his best passing game, finishing 17/31 for 181 yards, 2 touchdowns and 1 interception. However, he found a way to make an impact in this clash, rushing for 76 yards. Justin Rankin supplied the biggest play of the night, breaking loose for a massive touchdown in the fourth quarter. Nick Anderson led the defence with 12 tackles and 1 sack.

Those numbers tell the story of a team that refused to fold. If this was the Elks team from the last few seasons then they likely would have been finished by half-time.

One win against Calgary does not mean that Edmonton owns this rivalry again. Calgary dominated much of the game. The Elks need to keep beating the Stampeders, especially at Commonwealth Stadium today, and prove this success can last beyond one game or even one season.

But for the first time in years, Edmonton is not simply trying to keep up. The Elks are 9-3, leading the West Division and playing with confidence. The Elks can clinch a playoff spot with a win today.

Have they completely reclaimed the Battle of Alberta? Maybe not yet. But after that Labour Day comeback, it feels like a real rivalry again. The Elks are no longer doormats to their southern neighbour.