The Canadian Football League (CFL) is one of the world’s premier professional football leagues, enjoyed by millions every year. As we look ahead to what this year could hold for the CFL, several teams have emerged as favorites.
Toronto Argonauts: Dominant Regular Season Performance
The Toronto Argonauts were the best team in the CFL last year throughout the regular season. They went 16-2, dominating everyone in their path. Despite falling short of their Grey Cup dreams, they are still expected to have a massive season this year according to most sportsbooks in Canada.
Toronto is led by quarterback Chad Kelly, who showed himself to be a superstar last season. However, the CFL suspended him for at least nine games following an investigation into a lawsuit filed by a former strength and conditioning coach against both the player and club.
Kelly was also suspended for Toronto’s two preseason games for violating its gender-based violence policy. Cameron Dukes has taken over under center. The team also revamped their running game after some losses, but a top-notch wide receiver room and defensive players like Folarin Orimolade will make them a threat to run through the league once again.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers: Consistent Excellence
The Winnipeg Blue Bombers have turned into the most consistently excellent franchise in the CFL over the past several years. Over the past four seasons, they have made the Grey Cup all four times, winning it twice. Last year, they lost a heartbreaker in the Grey Cup, but they have the ability to dominate this year once again.
They are led by quarterback Zach Collaros, who has been the best player in the CFL over the past several seasons. After making some surprise appearances in the offseason, Collaros will return to football ready to dominate. Despite some offseason losses, the Blue Bombers have the talent to support him and continue their winning ways.
BC Lions: High-Flying Offense
The BC Lions had a big season last year, going 12-6 and making a run to the West Final. Their high-flying offense really delivered, and they are set to run it back this year. Many sportsbooks have high odds for the Lions to return to the big stage, driven by their explosive offensive capabilities.
A major reason for this is the play of quarterback Vernon Adams, who was one of the top players in the league last year. The Lions extended Adams after he had career highs in several categories for the team. While they’ll look for him to reign in the interceptions, more of his game-changing play will be needed for this offense-oriented group.
Montreal Alouettes: Defending Grey Cup Champions
You might be a little surprised to see the Montreal Alouettes, the defending Grey Cup champions, ranked this low. But sportsbooks don’t appear too high on this team. The Alouettes had a miraculous run last season, beating the Argonauts and the Blue Bombers to return to glory.
They were led by the duo of Cody Fajardo and Austin Mack. Mack has left the CFL to try and earn a place in the NFL, but Fajardo is back to try and help this team repeat. While they have lower odds than many of the other top teams, don’t sleep on this Alouettes roster. They have a solid defense and an offense that can surprise, even after losing leading rusher William Stanback.
Edmonton Elks: Can They Experience an Offensive Resurgence?
The Edmonton Elks, coming off their first win of the season on Saturday (42-31 against the Saskatchewan Roughriders on the road), with running back and return specialist Javon Leake playing a big part, as he ran for 169 yards and three touchdowns on 12 carries. Leake, who played college at Maryland and won the 2019 Big Ten Return Specialist of the Year award, is also a one-time Grey Cup champion (with the Toronto Argonauts in 2022). His success has not gone unnoticed by the Terrapin community, as many Fanatics Sportsbook Maryland members continue to support his progress.
Calgary Stampeders: Disappointing Season and Future Hopes
Calgary fans are passionate about their CFL team, which suffered a highly disappointing season last year. They went 6-12, making it one of their worst seasons of the past few years. Many expect them to bounce back this season.
Jake Maier returns this season, and fans are hoping to see improved play from the young QB. Reggie Begelton showed why he’s a star last year, and he’s back to help put this roster over the top. The Stampeders can creep up on a lot of people this year. However, in a challenging West, it is difficult to project whether they will earn a shot at the Grey Cup.
Factors Influencing Success
Key factors for these teams include staying healthy, finding consistency, and getting strong performances from their key players. With the right combination of factors, any team can become a contender in the CFL.
The 2024 CFL season is an exciting one, with several teams vying for the Grey Cup. The Toronto Argonauts, Winnipeg Blue Bombers, BC Lions, Montreal Alouettes, and others all have the potential to make deep runs and compete for the championship.
Fans can look forward to thrilling games, standout performances, and the drama that makes the CFL one of the most beloved leagues in professional football. As the season unfolds, the question remains: who will emerge as the ultimate champion?
Every game will be a battle, with teams striving to secure their place in the playoffs and ultimately the Grey Cup. The intense competition, combined with the passion of the fans, will make this CFL season one to remember. With so much at stake, each team will need to bring their best to the field every week.
