Edmonton has hosted the Grey Cup five times in its 118-year history: 1984, 1997, 2002, 2010, and now 2018. We’ve been reminiscing about our favourite Grey Cup moments and narrowed it down to this list.
Most Grey Cup Appearances
The Esks have had 24 appearances in the Grey Cup final, have won 14, and hold the second-most wins in the CFL, including 5 consecutive championships from 1978-1982.
Highest Grey Cup Attendance
In 1977, Montreal hosted the Grey Cup and set the record for highest gameday attendance ever: 68,318. Montreal beat the Esks 46-6.
Historic Touchdown
In the 2017 final game, Toronto Argonaut’s Ricky Ray connected with DeVier Posey for a 100-yard touchdown in the cold and snow—the longest passing play in Grey Cup history.
Setting Records
Anthony Calvillo played in the CFL from 1994 until 2013 and holds many records, including 455 touchdown passes and 125 300-yard games. Though he’s won only 3 Grey Cups, he retired as one of the CFL’s most decorated players.
A Model of Consistency
The Edmonton Esks’ streak of 35 straight years in the playoffs is record-setting among pro sports teams in North America.
Largest Comeback in Grey Cup History
In 1981, the Esks came back from 20-0 to beat the Ottawa Redblacks 26-23 with only three seconds left in the game!
What’s the Rush?
Roughrider’s Running Back Kory Sheets sets a Grey Cup record with 197 yards from scrimmage in the 101st Grey Cup.
Changing the Game
The Esks changed football in North America forever when they signed Warren Moon in 1978, as the first African American quarterback. Five straight CFL championships, along with a storied NFL career, has cemented Moon’s status as one of the greatest players in the CFL and NFL.
In 2015, the Montreal Alouettes signed Michael Sam, the first openly gay professional football player. According to the CFL, this sets a precedent of inclusivity within the league, which prides itself of working towards diversity.
Most Grey Cup Final Losses
The Saskatchewan Roughriders hold the record for the most Grey Cup Final Losses: 15.
Looking for a Keepsake?
Learn more about their exciting 120-year history, discover Wall of Honour players, coaches and staff, and explore the extensive collection of Esks photos and signed memorabilia in the Edmonton Eskimos collectors’ book, written by Terry Jones, published by Epic Legacies Inc. Get your copy here.
Even more Grey Cup Festival!
Looking for some of the thrilling activities and free entertainment? Or maybe an easy breakdown of the five-day itinerary? We’ve got those, too!
