CFL pick tonight with analysis

sherwood · Jun 16, 2006

Saskatchewan +4 over BRITISH COLUMBIA
From our viewpoint the Saskatchewan Roughriders look like the team to beat this year. After Ottawa folded in the off-season, the Roughriders were the team that benefited the most from the dispersal draft acquiring QB Kerry Joseph and receiver/kick returner Jason Armstead. That should really help this group that was stagnant on offense last year but likely won’t be this year. To go along with the additions is an offensive line that’s unmatched in this league, a running game that led the league last year and a defense, especially the secondary, that’s simply outstanding. The Roughriders are the most complete team in the West and any points here have to be considered a gift. The Lions, meanwhile, will have to go back to aging QB Dave Dickerson. Dickerson was benched in favor of Casey Printers last year but Printers moved onto greener pastures in Kansas City. Dickerson didn’t play much at all last year but did appear in the Grey Cup game and looked horrible. The Lions offensive line is considered a weak spot and that does not bode well here against this enemy. The money line of +1.58 is tempting but the four points are too juicy to pass up and thus, we’ll play it that way instead. Play: Saskatchewan +4 (Risking 2.10 units to win 2).

thirdperson · Jun 16, 2006

I agree with Saskatchewan+4. These 2 teams tend to play close games against each other especially in 5 previous encounters. However I feel more confidence with total under because 5 of 6 previous meetings have been low scoring and both teams have solid defenses. Afterall, Dickenson is still a better quarterback than Kerry Joseph and BC seems to have better special teams. Quarterback sacks are overrated because strong offenses are still productive despite allowing plenty of sacks. Also normally, BC plays better than Saskatchewan in first half of season.

randolph · Jun 16, 2006

Yes there's no doubt they have a habit of playing close encounters but the spread of -4 is there for a reason and it just may be to lure Regina cash. However with all the changes to the teams for the coming season, what the heck do the books know that we don't? :missingte

randolph · Jun 16, 2006

Sherwood where are you getting +4 for Saskatchewan? Everywhere I look, I'm seeing +2.5 on the board.

AFLGuru · Jun 16, 2006

Spread was 4 up until this morning, then steamed to 2.5 and 3

billsfan · Jun 16, 2006

Thanks for the pik. I know nothing about the CFL, but willing to give it a shot.....thanks for the write up

AFLGuru · Jun 16, 2006

Saskatchewan giving the whole team effort to start the game. Defense goes 2 drives and is about to be down 14-0 and the offense went 2 and out... stellar.

ppeter · Jun 17, 2006

looks like everyone went down hard on this game, it was never close.

BC's passing game looked unstoppable.

Vancouverfan · Jun 17, 2006

I realize its a day late but some info from a Lion's fan here,, Dickenson actually played a fair amount last year and had an unheard of pass completion percentage of 75% for the season, Printers struggled with injuries and didn't get near the playing time he did in 2004 when he won the CFL's MVP.. Only question with Dickenson is his health,, he is up there in age and holds on to the ball for a long time , not a good combo with an O-line with problems.. They brought in two new American players to play the tackle positions on the O-line this year and their hoping that helps.. Former Ohio St O-lineman Rob Murphy is guarding Dickenson's blindside and stood up to the task last night.. a good sign for Lion fans.. Dickenson was fantastic again last night,, if he can stay healthy all season,, could be a great season for the Lions.. I actually have a friend who I lived with in college thats a starter on the Lion's O-line, from what he was telling me,, the team is much better off without the mouthy Printers there and a QB controversy ,, most of those guys on the o-line are all buddies with Dickenson anyways