CFL Week 18 Power Ratings and Matchup Preview

As we enter Week 18 of the 2024 CFL season, teams are jockeying for playoff positions and hoping to gain momentum in the closing weeks. This week’s matchups offer plenty of intrigue, with several teams showing distinct trends based on their recent performance. Let’s dive into the power ratings and analyze the key games.

1. Winnipeg Blue Bombers (9-6) at Hamilton Tiger-Cats (6-9)

• Date: October 4, 2024 | Time: 7:00 PM | Stadium: Tim Hortons Field
• Forecast: Winnipeg 28.1, Hamilton 22.87

The Blue Bombers have been riding a hot streak, winning seven straight games straight up (SU) and four of their last five against the spread (ATS). Winnipeg is a force both SU and defensively, as evidenced by their 3-12 Over/Under (O/U) record, signaling the ability to keep games low-scoring. Their chances of winning (C.O.W) are 67.33%, and they have a bullish value indicator (V.I.C.), making them a favorite in this matchup.

Hamilton, on the other hand, comes into this game with some momentum of their own, winning four straight SU and five straight ATS. The Tiger-Cats have been involved in high-scoring affairs with an 11-4 O/U record, including four of their last five games hitting the over. However, their C.O.W of 31.68% suggests they will face an uphill battle against a red-hot Winnipeg squad.

Odds: Winnipeg -4.5, Total O/U 50
Edge: Winnipeg (Bullish) | Lean: Under 50

2. Calgary Stampeders (4-9-1) at British Columbia Lions (7-8)

• Date: October 4, 2024 | Time: 10:00 PM | Stadium: BC Place Stadium
• Forecast: BC 29.62, Calgary 20.7

The Stampeders continue to struggle, dropping their last four SU and ATS. Calgary’s offensive woes are evident, and their streak of six ATS losses compounds their issues. With a C.O.W of just 22.73%, they head into BC as clear underdogs.

The Lions, meanwhile, have hit a rough patch of their own, losing their last two games SU and ATS. However, BC remains in playoff contention with a solid power rating of 29.62 and a C.O.W of 81.25%, suggesting a strong likelihood of rebounding at home. Despite their recent struggles, they are favored by 7.5 points, and their neutral value indicator suggests this might be a bounce-back spot.

Odds: BC -7.5, Total O/U 53
Edge: BC (Neutral) | Lean: Under 53

3. Saskatchewan Roughriders (7-7-1) at Edmonton Elks (5-10)

• Date: October 5, 2024 | Time: 7:00 PM | Stadium: Commonwealth Stadium
• Forecast: Saskatchewan 28.54, Edmonton 24.35

Saskatchewan has found form with two straight SU and ATS victories, positioning themselves in the thick of the playoff race. With a C.O.W of 66.67%, they look well-situated to continue their winning streak. The Roughriders are 9-6 O/U this season, making totals betting intriguing.

Edmonton, on the other hand, has dropped their last two games SU and ATS, but they’ve shown resilience with a 3-2 ATS record in their last five. Despite this, their power rating of 24.35 and C.O.W of 46.67% indicate they will be underdogs at home.

Odds: Saskatchewan -2.5, Total O/U 50.5
Edge: Saskatchewan (Neutral) | Lean: Under 50.5

Summary:

• Winnipeg continues their dominant run and looks poised to cover against Hamilton.
• BC Lions are likely to right the ship against the struggling Calgary Stampeders.
• Saskatchewan could continue their winning ways with a solid performance over Edmonton.

With playoff implications on the line, expect Week 18 to be critical for the teams battling for position. Keep an eye on defensive trends, as several of these matchups may favor the under.