Last week was a bit of a funny week for CFL betting with all of the road teams showing up in a big way, none more so than Toronto which won at B.C. The Argos will look to keep the good times rolling in this rare week that sees four days of action beginning on Wednesday night. As you will see, there are no big spreads this week. In the first three games, the road team is a small favorite. B.C. was not given that level of respect as they look to rebound in Regina against a winless Saskatchewan team.
Wednesday July 13
Ottawa RedBlacks vs. Toronto Argonauts
Odds: Ottawa -1
The Argos had the stunner of last week with their win at BC. However, they are still a point behind Ottawa in the East as the RedBlacks had a rare tie last week at home against Calgary. Even though Toronto got the 11-point victory, they still have to be concerned that the offense is struggling to make it into the end zone. Kicker Lirim Hajrullahu made six field goals last week. Though they did not outgain the Lions last week, they were able to control the clock thanks to an effective ground game. Even though Ottawa wide receiver Chris Williams has set a record for most receiving yards through three games with 493, it was not enough to get the RedBlacks over the hump against Calgary last week. By all rights, the home side should have won the game, outgaining the Stampeders by more than 100 yards in front of a sold out crowd. Their defense was strong too making Lions RB Jerome Massam a non-factor.
CFL Betting Pick: Ottawa
Thursday July 14
Edmonton Eskimos vs. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
Odds: Edmonton -3.5
The Eskimos and Blue Bombers are both coming off wins last week. Edmonton was given more of a game than expected by the visiting Roughriders, needing overtime to dispatch them. It was the return of coach Chris Jones to Edmonton and perhaps his former charges were not in the right emotional state. The numbers show the game was not as close as it appeared on the scoreboard. Meanwhile, Winnipeg was a surprise road winner over Hamilton. Their offense was sharp in the first half, building a 22-10 lead, and then they hung on for the victory. Winnipeg was able to force Hamilton quarterback Jeremiah Masoli into a couple of interceptions that were key in getting the victory. Running back Andrew Harris ran well too with 63 yards on just 13 carries.
CFL Betting Pick: Edmonton
Friday July 15
Hamilton Tiger-Cats vs. Montreal Alouettes
Odds: Hamilton -1
Hamilton has to be disappointed that they find themselves in last place in the East, tied with Montreal. They were kind of embarrassed last week losing to Winnipeg, a game they should have won handily. Last week was a game where they definitely would have liked to have had starting quarterback Zach Collaros under center. There is still no definitive date for his return and coach Kent Austin had indicated Masoli will start this week. They should be able to win either way. Montreal was off last week and so they should be well prepared. Not much is expected of this team, though. Through a couple of games, they have yet to muster much offense. Odds are Hamilton would be about a touchdown favourite if they were coming off a win instead of a loss, so this looks like a buying opportunity.
CFL Betting Pick: Hamilton
Saturday July 16
BC Lions vs. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Odds: Pick’em
Both of these teams lost last week. B.C. was a surprise loser at home while Saskatchewan showed a strong fighting spirit nearly beating the Eskimos on the road. Alas, the Roughriders still seek their first victory of the season. B.C. is not going to give it to them. The Lions are seeking to grind out games with a strong running game and defense. They lead the CFL in time of possession and rushing yards, and will challenge Saskatchewan to methodically move the ball down the field. Saskatchewan is not strong in either of those categories, nor are they by any other measure – at least not so far. It looks like they will have to wait at least another week before their faithful can celebrate a win. Another great opportunity for bettors to take advantage with a team coming off a loss.
CFL Betting Pick: BC
