Punishing running backs, terrorizing quarterbacks and creating havoc for opposing offensive coordinators; just another day at the office for veteran linebacker Solomon Elimimian as he collects CFL Player of the Month kudos for September.
Averaging 10 tackles per game over three outstanding defensive performances during CFL Weeks 11 through 14, Elimimian is playing some of the best football of his career including a record-setting effort in Toronto on August 31 with 14 tackles in the club’s 16-13 win over the Argos. “I’m very blessed. Obviously it’s all about the team and my teammates, the d-line has been doing a good job, but as long as we win and keep winning, that’s all that matters to me,” Elimimian says.
Following his season-ending Achilles injury last August, the 2014 CFL Most Outstanding Player has no doubt returned to the elite form that has made him one of the league’s top defenders. “You’ve to to keep getting better and not forget everything you’ve been through. It wasn’t easy, but it was something that helped fuel me, gave me motivation to be better and quiet the naysayers that didn’t think I could. I just want to keep winning and get this Grey Cup.”
Ranked second among all defenders with 87 defensive stops on the year to date, Elimimian is on track for one of his best seasons since earning Outstanding Player and Outstanding Defensive Player awards in 2014 as well as the second 100+ tackle season of his career.
The Lions are currently in second place in the West Division with an 8-4 record. Elimimian and his teammates play the Ottawa REDBLACKS on Saturday night at 7:00 pm presented by Tim Hortons. Saturday’s game also features a special halftime performance by the University of Washington Husky Marching Band.
