CFL Week 16 (defeat looming)

[PassTheBuck]

With a big loss looming in CFL futures (Winnipeg U7.5 wins), I am picking a spot here to try and turn things around. On Sunday afternoon, in the late game, you get two teams heading in the same direction, as both BC and Winnipeg are on a tear lately. With BC going to Winnipeg, and having been beaten down last week, it might almost seem like this should be a no-play or a bet on Winnipeg.

There are several reasons I like the Lions to prevail over the Bombers. First is difficulty of schedule. The Lions have been getting it done (and staying close) against some of the top talent in the league, while the Bombers' 3 game win streak comes against the three biggest slumping teams in the league right now. Second is strategy, and by this i mean that Winnipeg has become a passing team. No longer are they trying to pound it on the ground, but they prefer to let Bishop let it loose. This fits in nicely with a BC team that has a great secondary.

Finally, I like the QB match to favour BC. Buck Pierce must really be feeling the heat that is Casey Printers, because he has put up two consecutive 300+ yard games. This will give BC a much more balanced attack against arguably the worst secondary in the league. Michael Bishop is also airing it out, but this guy is always a threat to be picked, as he loves to make dangerous throws. He has been picked off 3 times in the past 2 weeks, while the Lions have 3 INTs in the last 2 weeks. They key to this game will be the Lions taking advantage of turnover opportunities, and not forgetting about Fred Reid.

If the Lions win, they can all but assure themselves a playoff birth. Lose, and they may not even get a crossover spot. Big game.

British Columbia Lions Pick'em (-110)

 

[thirdperson]

This game is a toss-up between two evenly matched teams. There are reasons favoring either side. Common sense suggests that home teams win more often than not when even teams meet. Also when a team has a big victory away at opponent's home, that team usually win at home too.

On the other hand, you are right about BC superiority in passing and pass defense. But takeaways-giveaways favor Winnipeg this season although BC seems improved lately. In the past, BC won at Winnipeg in 5 of 6 previous meetings. Recent line movement favors Winnipeg but BC often wins ATS as underdog.

 

[PassTheBuck]

Thanks for the info. I know there are some solid arguments that can be made for Winnipeg, but I see a better team in BC going against a Winnipeg team that has been lucky to have Bishop at top form and to play some weaker opponents.

GL