Rookie QB Taylor Cornelius to start for Elks in Week 9 vs. Redblacks

Photo courtesy: Edmonton Elks

The Edmonton Elks will start rookie quarterback Taylor Cornelius for their Week 9 game against the Ottawa Redblacks, according to 630 CHED’s Dave Campbell.

The Oklahoma State product made his first career start in the team’s Week 7 loss to the Winnipeg Blue Bombers, completing 19-of-33 pass attempts for 243 yards and three interceptions. He also rushed twice for 23 yards, though he lost a fumble that was returned for a touchdown.

Cornelius showed impressive arm strength in his debut and made a few key throws, though he obviously had an issue with turnovers. He seems to have developed chemistry with Canadian receiver Mike Jones, completing five passes to him for 60 yards. He targeted star wideout Derel Walker nine times, though they connected just twice.

There is still no timeline for the return of quarterback Trevor Harris, who pulled himself from practice last week due to a neck injury. He remains on the club’s six-game injured list.

The Elks and visit the Redblacks on Sept. 28 for a rare Tuesday night regular season CFL game. Ottawa enters the contest on a five-game losing streak with their lone win coming in a Week 1 upset of the Elks at Commonwealth Stadium.