RecordLast WeekThis WeekGame Picks2-238-28Player Props0-09-9Total2-247-37
Every game matters. It’s nice to be in playoff mode knowing this is true. My regular-season record took a bit of a hit trying to guess which teams would be making every effort as the schedule worked its way to the final whistle. Davis Alexander indicated that he would play last week, regardless of whether the East Division title was on the table. In hindsight, it should have been obvious that Jason Maas would do the right thing and not risk it, even if what he said led us astray. But enough about last week. The second season begins Saturday.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers at Montreal Alouettes
The Bombers won last week’s backup bowl to finish the regular season with a W in the W. But if they hope for another one of those, they will have to become the first crossover team to reach the big game. This year’s Grey Cup is in Winnipeg, and the team has been gearing up for one last kick at the can after five straight Grey Cup appearances. Unfortunately, I fear the dynasty will be deprived of the chance to bookend this era with a ring. As I write this, I remember the last six years. What if a fluke finger injury to Zach Collaros could have been avoided in last year’s Grey Cup? What if… that’s a game that doesn’t end. Saturday’s playoff weather is one thing that should benefit the Bombers, and if they hope to advance, or even cover the 6.5 points, it’ll be in large part because of Brady Oliveira. Bank on the Bombers trusting their star running back in any game script.
THE PARLAY: BRADY OLIVEIRA 50+ RUSHING YARDS + ALOUETTES MONEYLINE (-103)
Calgary Stampeders at BC Lions
Vernon Adams has been underwhelming in his previous two opportunities at revenge. He threw five interceptions in two starts against the Lions during the regular season. The Stamps lost those meetings by an average of more than 21 points. There’s an argument to be made that the Stamps were an easy meal in the midst of their late season swoon and that they’ve since gained strength. You could also say that the Lions sent them spinning. Nathan Rourke and company are on a 6-game win streak entering the playoffs and this year’s MOP finalist is poised to put on a show in his first playoff start. His previous taste of playoff football has come behind Adams. In front of Adams and against the Stamps this season, Rourke has racked up 745 total yards and 9 total touchdowns.
THE PICK: LIONS -4.5
PLAYER PROP: KEON HATCHER OVER 89.5 RECEIVING YARDS
It’s a big number but it’s hard to imagine the league’s leading receiver and Rourke’s favourite target being held in check. The Lions also have the league’s 3rd leading receiver in Justin McInnis so it’s not as though they can exclusively focus on Hatcher’s side of the field. Hatcher totaled 15 catches for 259 yards and 2 touchdowns in two games against the Stamps this season, easily going over 100 yards each time.
