CFL Playoffs, Semi-Finals Round

Ottawa Redblacks/Toronto Argonauts: after a four-year period which saw no less than 3 Grey Cup appearances, the Redblacks fell on hard times and failed to make the playoffs for several years. But 2024 saw them regroup formidably and ecstatically enable victorious momentum, leading them back to the CFL postseason to face the stalwart Toronto Argonauts. They faced each other twice this year and came to a split decision, this Saturday's matchup the lauded determinate rubber elastic inaugural gateway. Toronto's seen success as of late and played rather well last year, but came up short versus the resurgent Alouettes who then gracefully ascended to Grey Cup contention. The Argos no doubt seek to make up for that surprising disappointing loss, they were indeed the heavy favourites, and fell far short of rudimentary expectations. But Ottawa has luck on its side and the unabashed fortunes of maverick maelstroms. I'll pick them in a close thrilling vacuum. Where either team has plenty of opportunity. 

B.C Lions/Saskatchewan Roughriders: the B.C Lions are coming off back-to-back wins in the Semi-Finals round versus the Stampeders, seeking to once again play for the Cup which they haven't hoisted since 2011. Things have been grim for the Lions since embracing victory over a decade ago, with only 3 playoff wins since that championship they're no doubt excessively fraught and liturgically ravenous. The Roughriders have missed the playoffs for two years which is rather surprising, considering their dedication the best fans in the league (outside of Montreal and Hamilton) an organization that seeks destined paramount ascendency. They played twice in 2024 splitting their matchups like Ottawa and Toronto, but Saskatchewan dominated in their most recent meeting with a commanding 39 to 8 crafty blowout. Further, B.C picked up 5 of its 9 wins by the end of week 6 way back when in the summer, only 4 wins thereafter, that's not an awe-inspiring total. The Roughriders have won 4 of their last 5 and they're playin' at home with no dome creature comforts. It's not lookin' good for the heralded Lions. Hopin' it's close. Pickin' Saskatchewan.