Vernon Adams Jr. delivered a record-tying performance with six touchdown passes as the Calgary Stampeders defeated the Toronto Argonauts 58-36 in the Stampede Bowl at McMahon Stadium on Thursday night. The victory improved Calgary's record to 2-2, while the Argonauts also fell to 2-2 on the CFL season.
Adams Jr. Ties Franchise Record
Adams Jr. matched a franchise record previously set by Dave Dickenson on July 28, 2000, when Dickenson threw six touchdowns in a win over the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The Stampeders' last 50-point performance came on Sept. 10, 2022, when they scored 56 points in the Labour Day Rematch in Edmonton.
Adams Jr. completed 20 of 25 passes for 405 yards without an interception, adding a rushing touchdown on a 22-yard scramble in the fourth quarter. His six touchdown passes included four in the first half alone.
First-Half Fireworks
The Stampeders opened the scoring on their first drive with a touchdown strike to Jalen Philpot. In the second quarter, Adams Jr. connected with Tevin Jones for a 73-yard catch-and-run major, added a 20-yard pass to Dejon Brissett, and found Philpot again on a one-yard goal-line throw. That gave Calgary a commanding lead at halftime.
"He managed the game exceptionally well," said head coach Dave Dickenson, who praised Adams Jr.'s decision-making and lack of turnovers. Adams Jr. entered the game without throwing an interception all season, a significant improvement from his previous CFL career.
Second-Half Dominance
In the third quarter, Adams Jr. hit Clark Barnes on a 43-yard touchdown pass over the top. Later, Quincy Vaughn added a one-yard quarterback keeper to extend the lead to 42-24. In the fourth quarter, Adams Jr. found Dejon Brissett for his second touchdown of the night, and the Stampeders' defense held firm to secure the victory.
The Argonauts managed 36 points but could not keep pace with Calgary's explosive offense. The Stampeders' eight majors on the night highlighted their offensive firepower.
Key Takeaways from the Stampede Bowl
Adams Jr.'s performance was the centerpiece of the win, but the Stampeders also showcased depth with contributions from multiple receivers. The offensive line provided solid protection, allowing Adams Jr. to pick apart the Toronto defense. The victory ended a two-game losing streak for Calgary and kept them in the thick of the West Division race.
According to the Calgary Herald, the last time a Stampeders quarterback threw for six touchdowns in a game was Dave Dickenson in 2000. Adams Jr. now has 10 touchdown passes and zero interceptions through four games this season.
