The Canadian Press
TORONTO — The second-biggest upset of the season saw the Argos take down the Eskimos — an 85 per cent favourite — in Week 13.
This week offers plenty more upset potential with three heavy favourites as the Bombers, Argos and Lions are can’t-miss picks in the eyes of Pick ‘Em players and writers.
Then there’s the marquee matchup, as the Riders look to finally solve the league-leading Calgary Stampeders.
Can anyone pull off the upset? Our writers weigh in with their picks.
CFL Pick ‘Em is back in 2017 with more than $130,000 in combined cash and prizes are up for grabs*. Pick 30 in a row, win $30,000; pick 40, win $40,000; think you can pick 50 straight? You’re looking at $50,000. *View rules regarding streaks and prizing.
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OTT @ WPG
With Drew Tate unlikely to play, the REDBLACKS turn to their third-string quarterback and a relative unknown in Ryan Lindley. Suffice to say, Investors Group Field, against one of the CFL’s top playmaking defences over the last two seasons, is not the ideal place to make your first career CFL start.
If Ottawa can steal a game or two without its top two QBs in the lineup, a third straight East Division title will be possible. That will be difficult against a Bombers team that is well-rested coming off the bye and looking to shrink the gap between themselves and the West Division-leading Stampeders.
PICK
Writers: 100% Winnipeg
Fans: 91% Winnipeg
HAM @ BC
While they’re 2-9, the Ticats are very much alive in the East Division playoff race. However, there’s a very slim margin for error. Three wins in four games would give Hamilton fans reason for optimism.
The Lions are hoping for more consistency from Jonathon Jennings, who threw three interceptions in a loss to the Stampeders. On defence, Alex Bazzie’s return could boost an already-potent defence. In short, the second game of Friday’s double-header features two last-place teams that need to start winning or their post-season hopes will fade.
PICK:
Writers: 100% BC
Fans: 88% BC
MTL @ TOR
The first time these teams met, the Argos couldn’t find the end zone with backup quarterbacks Cody Fajardo and Jeff Mathews. In the rematch, with Ricky Ray under centre, the Boatmen had the game won by halftime.
With the growing divide between the top-two and the bottom-two in the East, Saturday’s rubber match at BMO Field will go a long way in determining playoff spots in the CFL East Division.
PICK
Writers: 100% Toronto
Fans: 91% Toronto
CGY @ SSK
Sunday’s matinee finishes off Week 14 with a clash of the CFL’s two hottest teams, as the Riders have won four of five while the Stampeders have taken eight straight. While the Riders struggled in their first clash, the scene shifts to new Mosaic Stadium, where they’re 4-1 this season.
Kevin Glenn is back while the Riders’ recent additions of Elie Bouka and Marc-Olivier Brouillette will make their debuts in Green and White. And in the end, something’s got to give, whether it’s Saskatchewan’s high-flying offence or DeVone Claybrooks’ smothering Calgary defence.
PICK
Writers: 57% Calgary
Fans: 66% Calgary
