99th Grey Cup

Winnipeg Blue Bombers (10–8) vs. B.C. Lions (11–7)
B.C. Place Stadium
Vancouver, British Columbia
Line: Lions by 8

Odds Courtesy of OddsShark.com


This CFL season was the most competitive in recent memory. With both divisions undecided until the last week of the season, it wasn’t clear who would play in Canada’s biggest football game. When the dust settled, the B.C. Lions turned out to be the clear winner, awarded with what is, in essence, a home game.

B.C. makes only their 10th appearance in the Grey Cup final. The Lions were locked in a three way race with Edmonton and Calgary all season long. They finally broke through in the final game of the season, destroying Montreal 43-1. Their led by third year starter Travis Lulay, who played his ball at Montana State. He was second in the league in passing with over 4,800 yards this season. His main target is Geroy Simon, the eleven year veteran out of Maryland. Simon was second in the league in receiving with over 1,300 yards and 8 TD’s. Arland Bruce of Minnesota is another option, as he also had 8 TD’s this season. On defense, they rely on Solomon Elimimian, the Nigeria native who played his ball in Hawaii and was second in tackles with 98. Massachusetts own Keron Williams is also a big play maker on “D” as he was in the top five in sacks with 11.

Winnipeg is in their 24th Grey Cup final, the most in league history. They beat out two-time defending champion Montreal for the East regular season title. With a bye, they easily dispersed the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the Eastern championship. The Blue Bombers starting QB is Buck Pierce. The former New Mexico State standout was cut last year by B.C. after injuries and inconsistent play knocked him from the starting lineup. His offensive play was solid enough to keep the starting job, despite throwing for 18 interceptions during the season. His offense consists of Georgia’s Terrence Edwards, who led the team in receiving yards (1,124) and Clarence Denmark of Arkansas-Monticello who had 5 TD’s this season. On defense, the Blue Bombers depend on a strong offensive line and pass defense. They’re led by defensive end Odell Willis, who played his football at West Georgia and led the league in sacks (18) and defensive back Jovon Johnson of Iowa who led the league in interceptions (8).

Analysis – B.C. Place Stadium will be packed to the rafters in a sea of orange and black. But like a few years ago in Montreal, having the championship game in your own house doesn’t guarantee a victory. But with the inconsistent play of Pierce, Winnipeg’s only hope is to stop the offense and score early. It’s going to be a hard task.

Smooth’s Pick – B.C. (36-15)