Favorites
The Toronto Argonauts headline the favorites after a dominant campaign last year, boasting balance on both sides of the ball. Their veteran leadership and explosive offense make them a top pick in outright Grey Cup markets. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers, perennial contenders in recent seasons, remain a powerhouse thanks to quarterback Zach Collaros and a defense that consistently delivers. In the West, the BC Lions continue to rise, powered by their strong passing game and aggressive style. These teams will likely control the early lines in win totals and Grey Cup futures.
September 05, 2025: BC Lions wide receiver Justin McInnis (18) celebrates with teammates after scoring a touchdown during the CFL game between the BC Lions and Ottawa Redblacks held at TD Place Stadium in Ottawa, Canada. Daniel Lea/CSM. (Credit Image: © Daniel Lea/Cal Sport Media) (Cal Sport Media via AP Images)
Dark Horses
The CFL has a history of surprise contenders, and this season should be no different. The Montreal Alouettes, who stunned many by lifting the Grey Cup last year, bring confidence and a young core that thrives in pressure games. The Calgary Stampeders, though in transition, still possess the structure and coaching pedigree to challenge favorites. Meanwhile, the Saskatchewan Roughriders could deliver value plays in divisional matchups, especially if they capitalize on home-field advantage at Mosaic Stadium.
Key Storylines
Quarterback play always defines the CFL season. Collaros continues to chase legacy with Winnipeg, while Toronto looks to maintain its offensive rhythm. The development of emerging quarterbacks, particularly in Ottawa and Edmonton, could reshape the league’s balance of power. Another storyline is whether Montreal can prove that last year’s Grey Cup triumph was no fluke or if it was simply a Cinderella run. Additionally, roster turnover and the integration of new American imports add volatility, creating betting opportunities for those who spot value early.
Betting Outlook
For bettors, the CFL’s distinctive rules often lead to higher-scoring games, making over totals a frequent target, especially with teams like BC and Toronto. Defensive juggernauts like Winnipeg and Calgary, however, can grind games toward the under, particularly in colder late-season matchups. Futures markets remain enticing: Winnipeg and Toronto are safer bets, but long-shot Grey Cup plays on teams like Montreal or Saskatchewan could pay off at generous odds. Week-to-week, bettors should monitor travel schedules and back-to-back road games, as fatigue can significantly affect performance in such a condensed league.
The 2025 CFL season is set to balance tradition and unpredictability. The established giants like Toronto and Winnipeg are expected to dominate, yet the parity of the league means that surprises are always possible. With dynamic offenses, physical defenses, and the Grey Cup awaiting in November, fans and bettors alike can expect another season full of drama, momentum swings, and new storylines shaping the rich history of Canadian football.
