Final Week Frenzy: The 2024 CFL Season’s Showdown
As the 2024 CFL season approaches its dramatic conclusion, the excitement in the air is palpable, especially in the West Division where the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the Saskatchewan Roughriders vie for the coveted title. With division supremacy still in play, this last week promises thrilling matchups and unbelievable twists. Prepare for a wild ride as we dive into the decider games and their implications on playoff seeding and betting odds.
A Crucial Week 21: West Division Title Under Spotlight
Kickoff for Week 21 arrives with the weighty anticipation that accompanies the West Division title chase. For the Blue Bombers and Roughriders, each game is not merely a contest but a battle to solidify their playoff positions and claim bragging rights. While the larger stakes loom over this matchup, several other games will feature teams looking to build some momentum heading into the postseason.
Game 1: Hamilton Tiger-Cats vs. Ottawa Redblacks
Game Preview:
- Spread: Redblacks -2.5, Tiger-Cats +2.5
- Over/Under: 50.5
- Money Line: Redblacks -135, Tiger-Cats +114
The Tiger-Cats have found their groove, winning four out of their last five outings. They recently showcased their prowess against the Calgary Stampeders, winning convincingly by 22 points. However, the Redblacks head into this game on the opposite end of the spectrum, suffering five consecutive losses, which includes a narrow defeat to the Toronto Argonauts.
Betting on the Redblacks feels like stepping onto shaky ground, especially considering their struggles. However, with a total set at 50.5, investing in the over seems prudent given recent high-scoring battles.
Game 2: Toronto Argonauts vs. Edmonton Elks
Game Preview:
- Spread: Argonauts -1.5, Elks +1.5
- Over/Under: 49
- Money Line: Argonauts -125, Elks +105
Toronto is riding high with three consecutive wins and has secured a playoff berth, making them a team to fear. Meanwhile, the Elks are desperate for a morale boost as they attempt to assess their quarterback situation with Tre Ford.
With the Argonauts somewhat easing into postseason prep—potentially resting some stars—this game presents an interesting landscape for betting, where Edmonton could cover, especially if they bring their ‘A’ game.
Game 3: Winnipeg Blue Bombers vs. Montreal Alouettes
Game Preview:
- Spread: Blue Bombers -4, Alouettes +4
- Over/Under: 47.5
- Money Line: Blue Bombers -218, Alouettes +180
The rematch from the season’s opening weekend does not hold the same fervor, as the Alouettes have already clinched the East Division top seed. The Bombers, however, are in a must-win situation to secure the West Division title and a major playoff advantage.
Expect Winnipeg to come out strong, particularly if the Alouettes decide to rest key players. With all the incentives riding on this game, a Bombers victory appears likely, and they should manage to cover the spread against potential second-stringers.
Game 4: Calgary Stampeders vs. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Game Preview:
- Spread: Roughriders -4, Stampeders +4
- Over/Under: 49
- Money Line: Roughriders -218, Stampeders +180
All eyes will be on the Roughriders, who might find themselves with extra motivation depending on how the Bombers fare against the Alouettes. If Winnipeg falters, Saskatchewan could emerge as West Division champions with a win. Conversely, the Stampeders are wrestling through a prolonged winless streak that stretches over two months.
There’s little doubt that the Roughriders’ offense will capitalize on Calgary’s defensive lapses, likely pushing the game score past the set over/under.
Final Thoughts
With the stakes high in this climactic week of the CFL season, each matchup carries significant weight, not just for the teams but for fans and bettors alike. Will the Bombers triumph in their quest for the West Division title? Can the Roughriders take advantage of potential slips from Winnipeg? This final week promises to deliver some breathtaking moments and thrilling outcomes as teams jockey for position leading into the playoffs.
As always, ensure to assess the betting landscape prudently and enjoy what is shaping up to be an electrifying finale in the CFL.
Stay tuned for updates as we hit the playoffs, and be sure to follow the action closely—because anything can happen in the world of football!
You can follow Anthony Miller on X @ByAnthonyMiller. Catch up with CFL on SI.com for the latest news.