Lions’ Canadian QB Rourke named CFL top performer for second time in three weeks

Jun 28, 2022 | 9:14 AM

TORONTO — B.C. Lions quarterback Nathan Rourke has been named the CFL’s top performer of the week for the second time this season.

The Victoria-born pivot headlined the league’s top performers for Week 3 after throwing for 436 yards — a CFL single-game record for passing yards by a Canadian quarterback — and four touchdowns in the Lions’ 44-3 thrashing of visiting Toronto on Saturday.

Rourke was also the top performer in Week 1 after throwing three touchdowns and rushing for two more in a 59-15 rout of Edmonton. The Lions had a bye in Week 2.

Rourke has passed for 748 yards and completed 87.8 per cent of his passes with seven touchdowns to no interceptions so far this season.

Calgary receiver Malik Henry and Winnipeg defensive lineman Willie Jefferson were also honoured by the CFL on Tuesday.

Henry caught six passes for 173 yards — both career highs — and had a touchdown in the Stampeders’ 30-23 win over the rival Edmonton Elks on Saturday.

Jefferson returned an interception 30 yards for a touchdown and had three tackles and a sack as the Blue Bombers downed Hamilton 26-12 on Friday.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published June 28, 2022.

The Canadian Press