Mike Reilly's return proves key to Eskimos' streak-snapping win over Stamps

Thirteen proved to be a lucky number indeed for the Edmonton Eskimos Saturday; they finally won against their provincial rivals from Calgary, snapping a 12-game losing streak against the Stampeders with a 27-16 victory, and they largely did so because of the return of #13. That would be quarterback Mike Reilly, starting his first game since he left the season opener with a knee injury. Reilly built on the positive momentum he created in a second-half relief appearance in Monday's loss to the Stampeders, turning in a great showing despite awful weather conditions, and together with another strong defensive effort, that proved more than enough to finally let Edmonton beat Calgary.

Reilly was simply dazzling in this one, completing 22 of 40 passing attempts for 352 yards and three touchdowns without an interception. Those numbers would be solid under most circumstances, but they're particularly impressive in a game that saw rain pouring down for most of the evening, making passing exceptionally difficult. He also used his mobility to good advantage, evading pressure to make throws and picking up eight rushing yards on three carries. Yes, the 55 per cent completion mark could use some improvement, but it wasn't bad considering the conditions and that this was Reilly's first full game back. If he can keep putting up the numbers he did Saturday, the Eskimos might have a great offence to go with their defence.

Of course, Reilly had substantial help. Receivers Kenny Stafford (three catches for 109 yards and a touchdown) and Adarius Bowman (six for 103 yards and two touchdowns) made plenty of remarkable plays to help out their quarterback. Running back Shakir Bell made the ground game a viable threat, collecting 63 yards on 11 carries while also shining in the passing game, where he picked up 73 yards on four catches. The defence also delivered another incredible performance, led by Cauchy Muamba and his two picks. Holding Calgary to 16 points two weeks in a row is a terrific feat.

On Monday, though, that defensive effort didn't prove to be enough, as the Eskimos could only marshal seven points of their own and couldn't keep drives alive. There was always a thought this week's game at home might be a bit easier, both with the home-field advantage and with Reilly's full return, but there were still real questions to be asked about if Edmonton could actually produce enough offence to win. Thanks to Reilly, that's exactly what they did. This is just one game, so we shouldn't draw too many conclusions from it yet, but it's a tremendously encouraging sign for the Eskimos. If they can match this kind of offensive play with the defensive dominance they've shown for much of this year, they'll be a fearsome opponent down the stretch. They've certainly shown that they're not a guaranteed win for Calgary any more, and they can't be written off by anyone else either.