Cnotes 2019 Canadian Football League Picks - News - Trends !

[CNOTES]

Betting Recap - Week 1
Joe Williams


League Betting Notes


-- Favorites/underdogs went 2-2 SU in Week 1
-- Underdogs went 3-1 ATS in Week 1
-- Home/road teams posted a 2-2 SU record in Week 1
-- Away teams posted a 3-1 ATS record in Week 1
-- The 'Over' went 3-1 in Week 1


Analysis


Ottawa (1-0) picked up an impressive 32-28 road victory against Calgary (0-1), a little bit of revenge on their rivals' field after losing the Grey Cup to the Stampeders last November. 'Over' (50) bettors were in good shape after 49 points were on the board through three quarters. The fourth quarter was interesting, though, as the Stamps actually led 28-21 before getting blanked 11-0 in the first period.


Winnipeg (1-0) spent most of the week as an underdog, including opening as a two-point 'dog in Vancouver. The money came in on the Blue Bombers, and that was a wise investment. They won on the road against the BC Lions (0-1), taking a 33-23 decision. The game started off a bit slow with just three points on the board in the first quarter, but they posted 28 total points in the second quarter to snap things back on track.


In the first game of the weekend, Hamilton (1-0) got off on the right foot with a win and narrow cover against Saskatchewan (0-1), winning 23-17 as five-point favorite as the 'under' (48.5) connected.


We'll save the bad beat of the weekend for last, however. Edmonton (1-0) posted a 32-25 win against Montreal (0-1). It was bad for 'under' (49.5) bettors, who felt like they were in good shape with an 18-8 score on the board through three quarter. The teams combined for 31 points in the fourth quarter. Edmonton was covering for a majority of the game, but Montreal actually tied it up late before Edmonton picked up a touchdown with 1:07 to go.


Team Betting Notes


-- The Roughriders will look to cool off the RedBlacks in Week 2. Saskatchewan enters just 1-4 ATS in the past five road games, and they're 0-5 ATS in the past five Week 2 battles. They're also just 2-5 ATS in the past seven games in the month of June. In this series, Ottawa is 4-1 ATS in the past five meetings, with the 'over' 6-2 in the past eight.


-- Ottawa enters 5-1 ATS in the past six games, and 4-1 ATS in the past five outings at home. They're also 7-1 ATS in the past eight outings in the month of June, while going 4-0 ATS in the past four in Week 2.


-- The BC Lions travel to meet Edmonton on Friday night. The Lions are 0-4 ATS in the past four games overall, and they're 5-11 ATS in the past 16 road outings and 3-7 ATS in the past 10 in Week 2.


-- The Esks haven't been much better against the number, going 2-5 ATS in the past seven overall, including their bad beat non-cover in Week 1. They're also 1-4 ATS in the past five in Week 2, and 2-6 ATS in the past eight outings against teams with a losing overall record.


-- The over is 4-0-1 in the past five meetings between BC and Edmonton, and 4-1 in the past five meetings in Edmonton.


-- Toronto makes their 2019 regular-season debut, and they look to snap an 0-7 ATS against teams from the East to close out the 2018 campaign. The Tiger-Cats are 0-4 ATS in their past four against East teams, so something's gotta give.


-- Hamilton has destroyed Toronto in recent seasons, at least against the number, going 12-3 ATS in the past 15 meetings, and 8-2 ATS in their past 10 trips up the QEW. The over is 4-0 in the past four meetings, and 4-1-1 in the past six battles in TO.

 

[CNOTES]

CFL Betting Notes - Week 2
David Schwab


The CFL returned to action this past weekend and the favorites went 3-1 straight-up with an even 2-2 record ATS. Hamilton got things started on Thursday night with a 23-17 victory against Saskatchewan to cover as a 4 ½-point home favorite. On Friday night, Edmonton got past Montreal 32-25, but the Eskimos could not cover as eight-point favorites at home.


Saturday’s doubleheader of betting action started off with Ottawa stunning Calgary 32-28 as an 8 ½-point road underdog in a rematch of last season’s Grey Cup title game. Winnipeg scored another victory for the road teams with a 33-23 victory against British Columbia as a slight one-point favorite.


Thursday, June 20


Saskatchewan Roughriders (0-1 SU, 0-1 ATS) at Ottawa RedBlacks (1-0 SU, 1-0 ATS)
Point-spread: Ottawa -5 ½
Total: 48 ½


Game Overview


The Roughriders were hoping to make a run to the top of the West this season with a healthy Zach Collaros at quarterback, but an injury on his opening drive in Thursday’s loss brought an early end to his night.


Both Cody Fajardo and Isaac Harker saw playing time in his place and combined for 194 yards passing and zero touchdown throws against a pair of interceptions. One bright spot of the night was William Powell’s 104 yards rushing and one touchdown on 20 carries.


Ottawa got off to a solid start in defense of last season’s East Division title. Dominique Davis is the RedBlacks’ new starting quarterback and he did more damage with his legs than his throwing arm in Saturday’s big win in Calgary.


He ended that game with 276 yards passing, but he was picked off four times without finding the end zone through the air. He did run the ball five times for 10 yards with three of those rushing attempts going for scores. Mossis Madu ran the ball 24 times for 112 yards to highlight the running game.


Betting Trends


-- Ottawa has a 4-1 edge ATS in its last five games against Saskatchewan. The total has gone OVER in six of the last eight meetings in this inter-division tilt. The Roughriders have won four of their last six road games against Ottawa SU.




Friday, June 21


British Columbia Lions (0-1 SU, 0-1 ATS) at Edmonton Eskimos (1-0 SU, 0-1 ATS)
Point-spread: Edmonton -4 ½
Total: 55 ½


Game Overview


The much anticipated debut of Mike Reilly as BC’s new quarterback did not disappoint other than the final score of Saturday’s loss. He put the ball up 39 times and completed 22 passes for 324 yards and one touchdown throw. He was also picked off twice.


He completed passes to six different players including five throws to Bryan Burnham for 153 yards. The Lions’ ground game was non-existent with John White running the ball four times for four yards.


The Eskimos turned to Trevor Harris as their replacement for Reilly at quarterback. He made an even bigger splash with his new team by throwing for 447 yards and three scores with no interceptions. He put the ball up 41 times and completed 32 passes to seven different players.


Ricky Collins was the leading receiver with nine catches for 175 yards. Edmonton also got a strong effort from CJ Gable running the ball. He gained 154 yards rushing on 20 carries.


Betting Trends


-- Edmonton as a SU 7-3 edge against BC over the past 10 meetings, including a perfect 5-0 run at home. The Eskimos have covered in four of their last six home games against BC with the total going OVER in four of the last six meetings in Edmonton.




Saturday, June 22


Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1-0 SU, 1-0 ATS) at Toronto Argonauts (0-0 SU, 0-0 ATS)
Point-spread: Hamilton -2 ½
Total: 52


Game Overview


Expectations for the Tiger-Cats were running high heading in to Week 1 as favorites to win the East this season. Jeremiah Masoli threw for the second-most yards last year in the CFL and he started this season with 169 yards passing and one score while completing 17 of his 28 attempts in Thursday’s win.


Brandon Banks had a big game catching the ball with six receptions for 77 yards and a score. Hamilton gained just 63 yards on the ground while allowing 172 rushing yards on defense.


Saturday will be Corey Chamblin’s debut as Toronto’s new head coach. He was the defensive coordinator for the Argonauts in their run to the 2017 Grey Cup title. Following the team’s fall from grace to just four victories last season, there is definitely some work to be done to get back on track.


James Franklin will get the start at quarterback, but he could be on a short leash if things get out of hand early. One of his top targets should be wide receiver Derel Walker, who came to Toronto from Edmonton this past offseason.


Betting Trends


-- The Tiger-Cats have covered ATS in eight of their last 10 road games against the Argonauts and the total has gone OVER in five of the last six meetings in Toronto. Hamilton also has a 4-1 edge both SU and ATS in the last five meetings overall.

 

[CNOTES]

CFL
Long Sheet


Week 2


Thursday, June 20


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SASKATCHEWAN (0 - 1) at OTTAWA (1 - 0) - 6/20/2019, 7:30 PM
Top Trends for this game.
OTTAWA is 12-2 ATS (+9.8 Units) in June games since 1996.
SASKATCHEWAN is 86-61 ATS (+18.9 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1996.
SASKATCHEWAN is 141-104 ATS (+26.6 Units) as an underdog since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
OTTAWA is 4-1 against the spread versus SASKATCHEWAN over the last 3 seasons
OTTAWA is 3-2 straight up against SASKATCHEWAN over the last 3 seasons
3 of 5 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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Friday, June 21


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BRITISH COLUMBIA (0 - 1) at EDMONTON (1 - 0) - 6/21/2019, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 60-36 ATS (+20.4 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1996.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 39-23 ATS (+13.7 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points since 1996.
EDMONTON is 57-81 ATS (-32.1 Units) when playing on a Friday since 1996.
EDMONTON is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.

Head-to-Head Series History
EDMONTON is 4-2 against the spread versus BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
EDMONTON is 4-2 straight up against BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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Saturday, June 22


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HAMILTON (1 - 0) at TORONTO (0-0) - 6/22/2019, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HAMILTON is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 3 seasons.
TORONTO is 22-45 ATS (-27.5 Units) in a home game where the total is greater than or equal to 52 since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
HAMILTON is 4-2 against the spread versus TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
HAMILTON is 4-2 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons

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CFL


Week 2


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


Thursday, June 20


Saskatchewan Roughriders
Saskatchewan is 3-6 ATS in its last 9 games
Saskatchewan is 9-4 SU in its last 13 games
The total has gone UNDER in 4 of Saskatchewan's last 6 games
Saskatchewan is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games on the road
Saskatchewan is 5-2 SU in its last 7 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Saskatchewan's last 6 games on the road
Saskatchewan is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Ottawa
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Saskatchewan's last 8 games when playing Ottawa
Saskatchewan is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Ottawa


Ottawa RedBlacks
Ottawa is 5-1 ATS in its last 6 games
Ottawa is 5-1 SU in its last 6 games
Ottawa is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games at home
Ottawa is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games at home
Ottawa is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Saskatchewan
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Ottawa's last 8 games when playing Saskatchewan
Ottawa is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Saskatchewan




Friday, June 21


British Columbia Lions
British Columbia is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
British Columbia is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
British Columbia is 5-11 ATS in its last 16 games on the road
British Columbia is 3-13 SU in its last 16 games on the road
British Columbia is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Edmonton
British Columbia is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing Edmonton
The total has gone OVER in 4 of British Columbia's last 5 games when playing Edmonton
British Columbia is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Edmonton
British Columbia is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Edmonton
The total has gone OVER in 4 of British Columbia's last 5 games when playing on the road against Edmonton


Edmonton Eskimos
Edmonton is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games
Edmonton is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Edmonton's last 6 games at home
Edmonton is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing British Columbia
Edmonton is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing British Columbia
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Edmonton's last 5 games when playing British Columbia
Edmonton is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against British Columbia
Edmonton is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against British Columbia
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Edmonton's last 5 games when playing at home against British Columbia




Saturday, June 22


Hamilton Tiger-Cats
Hamilton is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Hamilton is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Hamilton's last 12 games
Hamilton is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Hamilton is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Hamilton's last 5 games on the road
Hamilton is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Toronto
Hamilton is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Hamilton's last 5 games when playing Toronto
Hamilton is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 games when playing on the road against Toronto
Hamilton is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Hamilton's last 6 games when playing on the road against Toronto


Toronto Argonauts
Toronto is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games
Toronto is 1-9 SU in its last 10 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Toronto's last 9 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Toronto's last 7 games at home
Toronto is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Hamilton
Toronto is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Hamilton
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Toronto's last 5 games when playing Hamilton
Toronto is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games when playing at home against Hamilton
Toronto is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Hamilton
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing at home against Hamilton

 

[CNOTES]

CFL
Dunkel


Thursday, June 20


Saskatchewan @ Ottawa


Game 689-690
June 20, 2019 @ 7:30 pm


Dunkel Rating:
Saskatchewan
112.537
Ottawa
112.477
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Saskatchewan
Even
43
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Ottawa
by 5
45
Dunkel Pick:
Saskatchewan
(+5); Under




Friday, June 21


BC Lions @ Edmonton


Game 691-692
June 21, 2019 @ 9:00 pm


Dunkel Rating:
BC Lions
109.157
Edmonton
110.689
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Edmonton
by 1 1/2
53
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Edmonton
by 4 1/2
55 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
BC Lions
(+4 1/2); Under




Saturday, June 22


Hamilton @ Toronto


Game 693-694
June 22, 2019 @ 4:00 pm


Dunkel Rating:
Hamilton
113.535
Toronto
101.050
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Hamilton
by 12 1/2
54
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Hamilton
by 2 1/2
52
Dunkel Pick:
Hamilton
(-2 1/2); Over




**************************************




CFL
Armadillo's Write-Up


Week 2


Saskatchewan (0-1) @ Ottawa (1-0) (-5.5, 45.5)— RedBlacks won three of last four meetings; road team won five of last six series games- Roughriders won three of last four visits here, losing 40-17 (+2) LY. Six of last eight series games went over the total. Saskatchewan (+4) lost 23-17 in Hamilton LW, after leading 13-10 at half, giving up go-ahead TD on a punt return. Riders had a 366-232 edge in yardage, but were -2 in turnovers. Ottawa (+9) won 32-28 in Calgary LW, after trailing 18-6 in first quarter- they outscored Stampeders 9-0 in 4th quarter.


BC Lions (0-1) @ Edmonton (1-0) (-4, 55)— Home side won seven of last nine series games; Lions lost last four visits to Edmonton, last two by 19-11 points. Over is 4-0-1 in last five series games. Lions (even) lost 33-23 at home to Winnipeg LW, despite running kick back for a TD; BC was -2 in turnovers in Reilly’s first game against his old team. Eskimos scored with 1:30 left to edge Montreal 32-25 LW; Edmonton led 18-8 after three quarters, holding Alouettes to a single point in 2nd/3rd quarters- they had 35 first downs and gained 608 TY.


Hamilton (1-0) (-3.5, 52) @ Toronto (0-0)— Season opener for Toronto, downside of having a 9-team league. Ti-Cats won last three series games SU, by 14-11-14 points, covered 12 of last 15: they won last two visits here, 34-20/36-25. Winning side scored 34+ points in last five series games. Last six Hamilton-Toronto games went over. Hamilton held off Saskatchewan 23-17 LW, despite being outgained 366-232; they held Riders to four points in second half, after trailing 13-10 at halftime.

 

[CNOTES]

CFL Week 2

Saskatchewan (0-1) @ Ottawa (1-0) (-5.5, 45.5)— RedBlacks won three of last four meetings; road team won five of last six series games- Roughriders won three of last four visits here, losing 40-17 (+2) LY. Six of last eight series games went over the total. Saskatchewan (+4) lost 23-17 in Hamilton LW, after leading 13-10 at half, giving up go-ahead TD on a punt return. Riders had a 366-232 edge in yardage, but were -2 in turnovers. Ottawa (+9) won 32-28 in Calgary LW, after trailing 18-6 in first quarter- they outscored Stampeders 9-0 in 4th quarter.


BC Lions (0-1) @ Edmonton (1-0) (-4, 55)— Home side won seven of last nine series games; Lions lost last four visits to Edmonton, last two by 19-11 points. Over is 4-0-1 in last five series games. Lions (even) lost 33-23 at home to Winnipeg LW, despite running kick back for a TD; BC was -2 in turnovers in Reilly’s first game against his old team. Eskimos scored with 1:30 left to edge Montreal 32-25 LW; Edmonton led 18-8 after three quarters, holding Alouettes to a single point in 2nd/3rd quarters- they had 35 first downs and gained 608 TY.


Hamilton (1-0) (-3.5, 52) @ Toronto (0-0)— Season opener for Toronto, downside of having a 9-team league. Ti-Cats won last three series games SU, by 14-11-14 points, covered 12 of last 15: they won last two visits here, 34-20/36-25. Winning side scored 34+ points in last five series games. Last six Hamilton-Toronto games went over. Hamilton held off Saskatchewan 23-17 LW, despite being outgained 366-232; they held Riders to four points in second half, after trailing 13-10 at halftime.

 

[CNOTES]

SIZE=1]Armadillo: Thursday's six-pack


Odds to win Travelers Championship this week:


7-1— Brooks Koepka


10-1— Patrick Cantlay


16-1— Paul Casey, Jordan Spieth


18-1— Jason Day, Francesco Molinari


20-1— Justin Thomas


25-1— DeChambeau, Fleetwood, Leishman, Oosthuizen, Watson




**********


Armadillo: Thursday's List of 13: Doing some thinking out loud…….


13) Nationals 2, Phillies 0— Max Scherzer broke his nose Tuesday during bunting practice, but he pitched the nightcap of this twinbill a day later, though he looked like Rocky Balboa, with a blackened right eye.


Throwing seven shutout innings the day after you break your nose is excellent.


12) Newly-signed P Dallas Keuchel will make his 2019 debut for the Braves Friday night against Washington.


11) San Diego’s Manny Machado hit a high infield pop-up Wednesday; four Brewers stared at each other and the ball fell harmlessly to the ground between the mound and the first base line. No one touched it, so it was called a single, which drives me nuts.


How the bleep can the pitcher be penalized for that? Next guy walked, next guy hit a home run and he gets nailed for three earned runs? That rule has to change; just plain stupid.


10) Milwaukee TV analyst Bill Schroeder, who is very good, ripped Machado for not being on second base when the ball fell, which ignites a different debate.


That ball gets caught 99 times out of 100; do you want your players sprinting when there is a 1% chance of getting an extra base, as opposed to a higher chance of pulling a muscle? I can see both sides of this argument.


9) Memphis Grizzlies traded PG Mike Conley to Utah for Kyle Korver, Jae Crowder and Grayson Allen, as well as two draft picks. Conley scored 21.1 ppg LY; he played the first 12 years of his NBA career with the Grizzlies.


8) Braves 7, Mets 2— Nick Markakis had played in 240 consecutive games, longest active streak in the major leagues; he didn’t start this game, but had a 2-run pinch single in the 8th inning to extend his streak to 241.


7) Baseball stuff:
— Braves put P Sean Newcomb on 7-day concussion IL.
— Tampa Bay put 3B Yandy Diaz (hamstring) on IL.


6) Random movie/TV trivia: actress Shera Danese, who played Vicky, the 2nd hooker in Risky Business, was married to Peter Falk (Columbo) for 34 years until he died in 2011. She appeared in six of the Columbo movies, from 1976-97.


5) College basketball transfer portal:
— F Karrington Davis bolts from Nebraska to Southern Illinois.


4) Alex Meruelo, who owns the SLS Las Vegas hotel/casino, was approved to become the owner of the NHL’s Arizona Coyotes. SLS has the smallest rooms I’ve ever stayed in in Las Vegas, but it was a cool place. Good food places there.


3) Detroit Lions’ QB Matthew Stafford played last season despite “tiny fractures in his back”; he was listed as questionable in Weeks 14-16, but started all three games.


2) Lakers and Pelicans are reportedly set to complete the Anthony Davis trade July 6; had they waited until July 30 to make the deal, LA would’ve saved $9M in cap space, and that difference could prevent them from pursuing another free agent for a max contract. No bueno.


1) Told you few days ago about this terrific new book “Then One Day” that I am reading now. Written by Chris Andrews, who runs the sportsbook at SouthPoint in Las Vegas, it is filled with stories from the gambling world over the last 40 years. An example……..


Have you ever played Keno in a casino? Keno is Chinese in origin; the guy who introduced it in Nevada casinos a long, long time ago got the idea by talking to Chinese immigrants who were working on the railroad in Montana, where the guy lived at the time.


I’ve never played Keno myself, but you always see people playing it in casinos. Knowing how it became a thing in Nevada, coming from China, is pretty interesting.[/SIZE]

 

[CNOTES]

CFL Week 2 preview, odds, picks and predictions: Argonauts add more weapons
Rohit Ponnaiya


James Wilder Jr. should play a major role for the Toronto Argonauts as they take on the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in their CFL season opener on Saturday.


We went 2-2 in our betting predictions to kick off Week 1 of the CFL, which is kind of like ordering a salad in a steakhouse, sufficient but disappointing. We head back to the board for the matchups in Week 2 with Mike Reilly making his return to Edmonton and Toronto playing its season opener against next-door neighbor Hamilton.


What did we learn from Week 1? Underdogs still rule early in the season with 'dogs going 3-1 ATS. Overs, on the other hand, went 3-1 reversing a trend which saw them go 1-3 in Week 1 during each of the last two years. We break down the odds and give you our best bets and predictions for the three games in Week 2 of the CFL.


Week 1 Picks: 2-2


SASKATCHEWAN ROUGHRIDERS AT OTTAWA REDBLACKS


Line: Ottawa -5.5, O/U 44
Time: Thursday, June 20, 7:30 p.m. ET


The O/U for this game opened at 49.5 and has already plummeted to 44. The Riders defense proved they were legit last week, holding Hamilton's high-powered offense to a combined 232 passing and rushing yards. They failed to pull off the win though, with their offense also sputtering after quarterback Zach Collaros was sidelined following a vicious hit to the head early in the opening quarter.


Collaros had a history of concussion problems prior to getting knocked out of that game, and has been placed on the 6-game injured list. Riders coach Craig Dickenson is still undecided on who will start at QB on Thursday between Cody Fajardo and Isaac Harker.


The Redblacks stunned prognosticators - including yours truly - last week by shocking the defending champion Stampeders with a fourth-quarter comeback in Calgary. Ottawa lost a plethora of key players on offense from last year but were still able to put up points thanks to new starters in Mossis Maddu (112 rushing yards) and QB Dominique Davis who ran for three touchdowns and passed for 276 yards (making up for the four picks he threw).


I would have backed the Under for this game at anything above 46, but the current total of 44 is giving me pause. That said, the Riders' situation under center is an absolute mess; Harker was probably the better passer in Week 1 but he's a rookie from the Colorado School of Mines (raise your hand if you think that sounds fake).


Whoever plays QB will be in trouble against a Redblacks defense that returns 11 of 12 starters from last year and held the Stamps to 318 combined rushing and passing yards last week. I'm laying the points with Ottawa.


PICK: Ottawa -5.5




BC LIONS AT EDMONTON ESKIMOS


Line: Edmonton -4, O/U 55.5
Time: Friday, June 21, 9:00 p.m. ET


The marquee matchup of Week 2 features a head-to-head battle between star QBs Mike Reilly and Trevor Harris, with Reilly making his return to Edmonton after six years as the Eskimos starter. Harris fit in seamlessly in his first game with Edmonton racking up 447 passing yards and three TDs in the opener. Reilly threw for 324 yards in his BC debut but completed less than 57 percent of his passes and was picked off twice. That said, Edmonton played against woeful Montreal while the Lions played against a Blue Bombers squad that might be the best in the league.


Despite the stellar signal-callers, both of these teams showed flaws on offense in Week 1. Edmonton outgained Montreal 608-325 in terms of combined passing and rushing yards but won by just seven points because of sloppy turnovers. BC had a one-dimensional offense against the Bombers, running the ball just four times (that's not a typo they had FOUR freaking carries all game). However, expect the Lions to play with more balance on Friday against a Esks run defense that was gashed for 134 yards on 17 carries against the Alouettes.


The difference-maker could be the Lions' superior return unit led by Brandon Rutley. They piled up 457 kickoff return yards versus the Bombers, including a 108 yard touchdown. I faded the Lions in Week 1 and felt they were a bit overrated going into the season but they are flying a bit under the radar for this game. Back BC and the points.


PICK: BC +4




HAMILTON TIGER-CATS AT TORONTO ARGONAUTS


Line: Hamilton -2.5, O/U 52
Time: Saturday, June 22, 4:00 p.m. ET


The Argonauts will play their first game of the season on Saturday. After winning the Grey Cup in 2017 they tied for the fewest wins in the league last year, going 4-14. All four of those wins came at home, but they took the L in both of their home tilts with the Ti-Cats, losing 36-25 in September and 34-20 in October.


Hamilton QB Jeremiah Masoli had a rough start to the season, completing 17 of 28 passes for 169 yards. But we predicted as much since he was going up against a tough Saskatchewan defense that shut him down in two games last season as well. This is still the same QB that threw for 5209 yards for the No. 1 rated offense in 2018 and Hamilton's offense has stayed more or less intact - which is a rare sight in a league with as much offseason turnover as the CFL.


The Argos allowed a league-worst 560 points last year and despite adding DB Kevin Fogg will likely not be much better. Masoli struggled against some of the better defenses in the league last year but absolutely tore up the Argos, averaging 343.3 yards through the air and tossing 12 TDs in three games.


On offense, Toronto should be improved from the unit that scored the second-fewest points in the league last year at 20.5 per game. They added WR Derel Walker (875 receving yards in just 11 games in 2018), RB Tyrell Sutton and former Florida Gator speedster Chris Rainey ( 452 rushing and receiving yards with an additional 2,112 yards on returns), along with first overall draft pick OL Shane Richards from Oklahoma State.


Argo running back James Wilder Jr, one of the top HS recruits in the U.S. class of 2011, is expected to play after leaving Toronto to deal with a family issue. Wilder has been on the verge of a breakout campaign for a couple seasons and missed five games with various ailments in 2018. Quarterback James Franklin also played with more consistency towards the end of last season. Take the Over.

PICK: Over 52

 

[CNOTES]

THURSDAY, JUNE 20
GAME TIME(ET) PICK UNITS


SSK at OTT 07:30 PM


OTT -4.5


U 43.5

 

[CNOTES]

GAME RECAP


DOMINANT DOMINIQUES: DAVIS, RHYMES CLOSE OUT RIDERS
CFL.CA STAFF


OTTAWA – In what many thought would be a defensive battle, turned into a shootout as the Ottawa REDBLACKS outlasted the Saskatchewan Roughriders Thursday with a 44-41 win at TD Place in their home opener.


The duo of Dominique Davis and Dominique Rhymes combined for 11 completions for 168 yards and a touchdown in the win. Davis, who took some heat last week despite the win was stellar, completing 30 of 39 passes for 354 yards and three touchdown passes in the vicotry.


The matchup was made of two teams with two very different storylines surrounding the quarterback spot after Week 1.


Davis had an adventurous Week 1 but despite throwing four interceptions, was able to orchestrate a game-winning touchdown drive in the final minutes to upset the defending Grey Cup Champion Calgary Stampeders.


A stark contrast to the Riders who lost starter Zach Collaros after he was hit late by Hamilton’s Simoni Lawrence in a loss to the Tiger-Cats. Both Cody Fajardo and Isaac Harker saw time in relief, with the former getting the nod versus the REDBLACKS.


Head coach Craig Dickenson mentioned during the week that Harker could see some action despite Fajardo getting the start. The best way to keep Harker pinned to the bench was to put points on the board early and that is exactly what the fourth-year pivot did.


On his second possession as a starter, Fajardo gave the Riders a 7-0 lead after delivering a strike to RB Marcus Thigpen on a post for a 19-yard touchdown. The score was aided by a 41-yard pass interreference call.


The lead – although critical for Fajardo’s confidence – was short lived however as the REDBLACKS promptly answered. Davis completed a first down strike to SB rad Sinopoli and got a 15-yard run from RB Mosis Madu before laying in a perfect toss to Rhymes in the corner of the endzone for a 20-yard major. A successful two-point conversion followed by a single on the ensuing kickoff gave the REDBLACKS a 9-7 lead as the first quarter came to a close.


The Riders would answer with massive 57-yard field goal off the foot of Brett Lauther to keep the lead swing going. In doing so, his kick tied for fifth longest in Roughriders history.


As the second quarter got underway, the REDBLACKS offence came alive led by Davis who was absolutely locked in each possession of the quarter.


First, Davis went play-action and found JC Beaulieu in the endzone for a 23-yard major after Ottawa forced a turnover on special teams deep in Riders territory.


The next possession, the REDBLACKS got a 42-yard punt return from Ryan Lankford which allowed Davis to spot Seth Coate down the sidelines for a 43-yard gain before finishing the drive with an 8-yard TD to RJ Harris.


Before the Roughriders could catch their breath, they were down 25-10 and in need of an answer for the Davis and the Ottawa offence which was stretching the field and doing so at a rapid pace.


A 55-yard kick return from Marcus Thigpen helped flip the field and the Riders stopped the bleeding when William Powell dodged his way into the endzone for a 9-yard score. Fajardo helped his cause by spotting Kyran Moore down the seam for a 39-yard gain to set up the score.


Somewhat lost in the leadup to the game amidst the Riders QB situation was Powell’s return to Ottawa for the first time since signing as a free agent in Saskatchewan. The former CFL rushing leader finished the night with 11 carries for 45 yards and a major against his former mates.


With the half winding down and the REDBLACKS having added another field goal, Fajardo showed some moxie headed into the locker room, completing another 20+ yard pass to Moore before throwing a ball over the top of the Ottawa secondary and connecting with Shaq Evans for a 44-yard major with four seconds remaining in the second quarter.


The teams combined for 55 points in the first half and the third quarter began with the REDBLACKS up 31-24.


They would quickly add to that lead as DL Avery Williams punched the football from Powell on the Riders first possession to set up a 30-yard Ward field goal.


The Riders would respond with a field goal of their own before Ward added another one – good for his 55th consecutive make dating back to last season.


Despite facing a REDBLACKS offence that was rolling, the Riders continued to hang around however. Down 41-27, with just over five minutes remaining, the Riders gambled on third-and-three and converted a 27-yard pass from Fajardo to Moore who set up a 6-yard Thigpen major.


Moore’s reception put him up over 100 yards receiving on the day and aided the Riders in cutting the Ottawa lead to 8.


As the game hit the three-minute warning, Davis and Rhymes once again took it upon themselves to put the game away, connecting on a 38-yard reception. It not only set up a field goal to extend the lead to 11 but put the lid on what was an offensive showcase in Week 2.


The Riders return to Regina to host the Toronto Argonauts on Canada Day in their home opener next week. The REDBLACKS will head into their first bye week before returning to host the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in Week 4.

 

[CNOTES]

Friday, June 22, 2018
Time (ET) Away Home
7:00 PM Winnipeg Blue Bombers Montreal Alouettes
10:00 PM Hamilton Tiger Cats Edmonton Eskimos


Saturday, June 23, 2018
Time (ET) Away Home
7:00 PM Calgary Stampeders Toronto Argonauts




***********************************




CANADIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE BEST BETS AND OPINIONS


DATE W-L-T % UNITS RECORD


06/20/2019 0-2-0 0.00% -11.00
06/15/2019 2-2-0 50.00% -1.00
06/13/2019 1-1-0 50.00% -0.50


Totals...............3-5-0 37.50% -12.50




******************************




BEST BETS:




DATE........................ATS................... ..UNITS..................O/U..................UNITS.............TOTAL


06/20/2019.............0 - 1.....................-5.50..................0 - 1....................-5.50..............-11.00
06/15/2019.............1 - 1.....................-0.50..................1 - 1....................-0.50..............-1.00
06/13/2019.............0 - 1.....................-5.50..................1 - 0....................-0.50..............-0.50




Totals..................... 1 - 3.....................11.50.................2 - 2....................-1.00.............-12.50

 

[CNOTES]

Friday’s 6-pack


Updated spreads for Week 1 NFL games:


— Packers @ Bears (-3.5, 45.5)


— Falcons @ Vikings (-4, 47)


— Redskins @ Eagles (-8.5, 46.5)


— Bills @ Jets (-3, 38.5)


— Ravens (-4.5, 37) @ Dolphins


— 49ers @ Buccaneers (-1, 49)


Quote of the Day
“……..he looks around the league and he sees all these guys who are less accomplished than him getting general manager jobs, probably making more money than him. He’s been here 19 years, he’s restless. He wants to go be a general manager. And the Houston job, while I do think it’s a lateral move, is obviously a good setup for him.”
Writer Ben Volin, talking about Patriots’ personnel guy Nick Caserio


Friday’s quiz
Which famous ex-college football coach played QB for the 1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who went 0-14 in their first season in the NFL?


Thursday’s quiz
Over the last 25 years, Chipper Jones hit the most home runs against the Mets.


Wednesday’s quiz
56 ballplayers have hit 400+ major league home runs.


****************************


Friday’s List of 13: Wrapping up a busy Thursday……..


13) I’m not fond of how the NBA runs it draft; when a pick gets traded (the #4 pick got traded twice), they still have the team who originally had the pick posted as the team making that pick. It is nonsensical.


Lakers had the #4 pick; they traded it to New Orleans, who traded it to Atlanta; everyone in the damn country knows this, so post it on your graphics and announce it as Atlanta’s pick— how freaking difficult can that be?


12) One of the most interesting teams in the NBA next season will be Cleveland, since 66-year old John Beilein will be a rookie NBA coach, after having been a great college coach.


Cavaliers took PG Darius Garland with the #5 pick; he only played four college games at Vandy before getting hurt, which wound up costing his college coach his job, since the team went in the ashcan without their point guard.


Cleveland already has Collin Sexton, so maybe they foresee a backcourt like Portland’s, with McCollum, Lillard.


11) Miami Heat traded three 2nd-round picks to Indiana for the 32nd pick, then took 6-10 KZ Okpala from Stanford; this from a scout: “Didn’t always have the defensive impact you might expect, particularly off the ball. Lacks a degree of physicality and toughness at times.”


Three 2nd round picks is a high price, so Miami must see a lot of potential.


10) New Orleans Pelicans traded the #4 pick, the #57 pick and Solomon Hill to Atlanta for the #8 and #17 picks, giving the Pelicans three first round picks.


With the #4 pick, the Hawks took De’Andre Hunter, who helped lead Virginia to the national title this past spring.


New Orleans took big guy Jaxson Hayes (Texas) and Nickeil Alexander-Walker (Virginia Tech) with the picks they got in the deal.


9) Oklahoma City took Chuma Okeke with the 16th pick; this is the kid from Auburn who tore his ACL during the NCAA tournament, so he won’t be any help this coming season, but Thunder must figure the knee will be fine. This pick was largely panned by the TV experts.


8) Gonzaga’s Rui Hachimura, Brandon Clarke both got taken in the first 21 picks, first time ever the Zags have had two first round draft picks in the same year.


7) You feel bad for kids who show up in Brooklyn for the draft and then slide down the draft board; has to be humbling. Oregon’s 7-3 C Bol Bol sat there for four hours before he wound up with the Denver Nuggets, the 44th player taken.


Bol is 7-foot-3 with a standing reach of 9’7.5, shot 52% from the arc, is an elite rim protector, averaged 21.0 ppg, 9.6 rpg, 2.7 bpg in nine games. Doesn’t turn 20 until November, but teams have questions whether he really loves basketball, which would be a serious problem.


6) Former Today Show host Matt Lauer put his Hamptons mansion on Long Island up for sale for about $44M, now that his divorce is final.


People say athletes are overpaid, and most are, but a guy hosting a 7am news show owning an estate worth $44M? Damn. Just for the record, Lauer bought the estate from Richard Gere for $36.5M in 2016.


5) Mets fired their pitching coach/bullpen coach Thursday; not sure what the bullpen coach did to get fired, unless he doesn’t answer the bullpen phone fast enough.


The new bullpen coach is Ricky Bones, who was bullpen coach last year but got the boot after the season.


4) Your tax dollars at work in the Tar Heel State:


Pinecrest HS in North Carolina lost the ACT test answer sheets for their entire junior class — that’s everyone who took the ACT on February 20 and March 13. All 440 answer sheets.


School administrators “have no idea” where the answer sheets are; kids will get re-tested when they go back to school this fall. Not good!!!!


3) Baseball stuff:
— Rockies put SS Trevor Story (thumb) on the IL.
— Rockies’ 3B Nolan Arenado (foot) left Thursday’s game early.


2) An executive with the New England Patriots decided to leave the team after owner Robert Kraft was charged with two counts of soliciting this past winter; the guy moved on to a similar job with Houston, then created a mess when he tried to recruit Nick Caserio to join him with the Texans. That is tampering, so Caserio remains in Foxboro.


How much will all this affect Caserio’s work this season? His contract is up after the 2020 draft; will he move on to Houston then?


1) Tampa Bay Rays got permission from MLB to explore splitting their home games between St Petersburg and Montreal; the mayor of St Pete wasn’t pleased.


“I believe this is getting a bit silly. After 12 years of indecision… I am tired of the games that are being played related to getting a new stadium built.”

 

[CNOTES]

PREVIEW


REILLY RETURNS TO EDMONTON AS ESKS HOST LIONS
CFL.CA STAFF


EDMONTON — It’s a homecoming of sorts for BC Lions quarterback Mike Reilly.


Reilly will play against his former teammates for the first time as his Lions take on Edmonton Friday night at The Brick Field at Commonwealth Stadium.


The Lions dropped their season opener against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers last Saturday, losing 33-23, while the Esks defeated the Montreal Alouettes 32-25 at The Brick Field.


Reilly expects a mixed reception when he takes to the field Friday night.


“Most of them will cheer and be appreciative of the time that I spent there right until the game starts. Then after that they’ll probably boo me every second,” Reilly laughed, talking to the media on Monday. “Which I would expect nothing else of an opposing team’s fan base, especially a great fan base like Edmonton.”


Reilly first came to Edmonton in 2013 after spending three seasons as a backup in BC. The Washington native went on to win a Grey Cup and a Grey Cup Most Valuable Player honour in 2015, a Canadian Football League All-Star selection in 2017, and that year’s Most Outstanding Player honours. The 34-year old then left for the Lions in the off-season, signing a four-year contract.


Former teammate and Edmonton defensive tackle Almondo Sewell was all business when he fielded questions about the departed signal-caller.


“Business is business,” Sewell said. “He had to do what he had to do. We’ve got Trevor (Harris) right now. We’ll just concentrate on what we have here.”


“It’s getting a bit too much, but that’s alright.” Sewell added, when asked whether he was tired of answering questions about Reilly.


Harris joined Edmonton during the off-season after spending the last three seasons as the REDBLACKS starter, winning a Grey Cup in 2016. In his first regular season against Montreal last week, the Ohio native threw three touchdowns for 447 yards. Edmonton had over 600 yards of offence against Montreal, but Harris gave all credit to his offensive line and running back CJ Gable.


“The truth of the story is, it’s our offensive line,” Harris said. “Those guys up front dominated the offensive line, the line of scrimmage. CJ was able to get some free open spaces and when he does that, he’s going to make the first guy miss.”


Despite the strong start, Edmonton will have to soldier through with a number of injuries. In addition to offensive lineman SirVincent Rogers being out indefinitely with torn triceps, receiver Anthony Parker and defensive back Don Unamba now find themselves on the six-game injured list.


“It’s never a good thing when you’re putting your starters on the bench, or on the injured six-game list.” Edmonton head coach Jason Maas said. “But like we’ve said in the past it’s the ‘next man up’ mentality. We talked about it early in training camp. Everybody who made our team better be ready to play, because at a moments notice you’re going to be called upon.”


The Esks will have previously injured receiver DaVaris Daniels in the lineup. He was on the one-game injured list and missed the Alouettes contest. The 26-year-old spent the last three seasons with the rival Calgary Stampeders before joining Edmonton in the off-season.


As for BC, they don’t have as many walking wounded, but Canadian running back Wayne Moore won’t be available for the team and he’s been placed on the six-game injured list after reportedly hurting his left shoulder against Winnipeg last week.


Head coach DeVone Claybrooks will get another crack at earning his first-ever win as head coach against a tough West Division opponent.


“I would say any team in the west is a rival in the sense. It’s going to be such a dog fight,” Claybrooks said. “Every week, you want to get the team’s best effort. So you just make sure that you come out, be ready to play, and be mentally in every game.”


BY THE NUMBERS


607 — The number of net offence yards registered by Edmonton in their opening week victory over the Montreal Alouettes


154 — The amount of rushing yards piled up by Esks running back CJ Gable versus the Alouettes last week, leading all running backs.


4 — Trevor Harris now has four 400-yard passing games after passing for 447 yards against Montreal


153 — Lions receiver Bryan Burnham picked up that many receiving yards for BC last week against Winnipeg, giving him 12 career 100+ yard games.


243 — The amount of combined yards amassed by Brandon Rutley of the BC Lions last week versus Winnipeg. 226 of those yards came off kickoff returns.


You can watch Friday night’s game on TSN, RDS, and ESPN2 at 9:00 p.m. ET.

 

[CNOTES]

CFL Betting Notes - Week 2

Friday, June 21


British Columbia Lions (0-1 SU, 0-1 ATS) at Edmonton Eskimos (1-0 SU, 0-1 ATS)
Point-spread: Edmonton -4 ½
Total: 55 ½


Game Overview


The much anticipated debut of Mike Reilly as BC’s new quarterback did not disappoint other than the final score of Saturday’s loss. He put the ball up 39 times and completed 22 passes for 324 yards and one touchdown throw. He was also picked off twice.


He completed passes to six different players including five throws to Bryan Burnham for 153 yards. The Lions’ ground game was non-existent with John White running the ball four times for four yards.


The Eskimos turned to Trevor Harris as their replacement for Reilly at quarterback. He made an even bigger splash with his new team by throwing for 447 yards and three scores with no interceptions. He put the ball up 41 times and completed 32 passes to seven different players.


Ricky Collins was the leading receiver with nine catches for 175 yards. Edmonton also got a strong effort from CJ Gable running the ball. He gained 154 yards rushing on 20 carries.


Betting Trends


-- Edmonton as a SU 7-3 edge against BC over the past 10 meetings, including a perfect 5-0 run at home. The Eskimos have covered in four of their last six home games against BC with the total going OVER in four of the last six meetings in Edmonton.




************************************




CFL
Long Sheet


Week 2


Friday, June 21


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

BRITISH COLUMBIA (0 - 1) at EDMONTON (1 - 0) - 6/21/2019, 9:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 60-36 ATS (+20.4 Units) as an underdog of 3.5 to 9.5 points since 1996.
BRITISH COLUMBIA is 39-23 ATS (+13.7 Units) as a road underdog of 3.5 to 7 points since 1996.
EDMONTON is 57-81 ATS (-32.1 Units) when playing on a Friday since 1996.
EDMONTON is 0-8 ATS (-8.8 Units) in home games when playing against a team with a losing record over the last 3 seasons.


Head-to-Head Series History
EDMONTON is 4-2 against the spread versus BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
EDMONTON is 4-2 straight up against BRITISH COLUMBIA over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------




CFL


Week 2


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




Friday, June 21


British Columbia Lions
British Columbia is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games
British Columbia is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games
British Columbia is 5-11 ATS in its last 16 games on the road
British Columbia is 3-13 SU in its last 16 games on the road
British Columbia is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing Edmonton
British Columbia is 3-7 SU in its last 10 games when playing Edmonton
The total has gone OVER in 4 of British Columbia's last 5 games when playing Edmonton
British Columbia is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Edmonton
British Columbia is 0-5 SU in its last 5 games when playing on the road against Edmonton
The total has gone OVER in 4 of British Columbia's last 5 games when playing on the road against Edmonton


Edmonton Eskimos
Edmonton is 2-5 ATS in its last 7 games
Edmonton is 8-1 SU in its last 9 games at home
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Edmonton's last 6 games at home
Edmonton is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing British Columbia
Edmonton is 7-3 SU in its last 10 games when playing British Columbia
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Edmonton's last 5 games when playing British Columbia
Edmonton is 4-2 ATS in its last 6 games when playing at home against British Columbia
Edmonton is 5-0 SU in its last 5 games when playing at home against British Columbia
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Edmonton's last 5 games when playing at home against British Columbia




***************************




CFL
Dunkel




Friday, June 21


BC Lions @ Edmonton


Game 691-692
June 21, 2019 @ 9:00 pm


Dunkel Rating:
BC Lions
109.157
Edmonton
110.689
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Edmonton
by 1 1/2
53
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Edmonton
by 4 1/2
55 1/2
Dunkel Pick:
BC Lions
(+4 1/2); Under




*****************************




CFL
Armadillo's Write-Up


Week 2




BC LIONS AT EDMONTON ESKIMOS


Line: Edmonton -4, O/U 55.5
Time: Friday, June 21, 9:00 p.m. ET


The marquee matchup of Week 2 features a head-to-head battle between star QBs Mike Reilly and Trevor Harris, with Reilly making his return to Edmonton after six years as the Eskimos starter. Harris fit in seamlessly in his first game with Edmonton racking up 447 passing yards and three TDs in the opener. Reilly threw for 324 yards in his BC debut but completed less than 57 percent of his passes and was picked off twice. That said, Edmonton played against woeful Montreal while the Lions played against a Blue Bombers squad that might be the best in the league.


Despite the stellar signal-callers, both of these teams showed flaws on offense in Week 1. Edmonton outgained Montreal 608-325 in terms of combined passing and rushing yards but won by just seven points because of sloppy turnovers. BC had a one-dimensional offense against the Bombers, running the ball just four times (that's not a typo they had FOUR freaking carries all game). However, expect the Lions to play with more balance on Friday against a Esks run defense that was gashed for 134 yards on 17 carries against the Alouettes.


The difference-maker could be the Lions' superior return unit led by Brandon Rutley. They piled up 457 kickoff return yards versus the Bombers, including a 108 yard touchdown. I faded the Lions in Week 1 and felt they were a bit overrated going into the season but they are flying a bit under the radar for this game. Back BC and the points.


PICK: BC +4




*****************************




FRIDAY, JUNE 21
GAME TIME(ET) PICK UNITS


BC at EDM 09:00 PM


EDM -3.0


O 55.5

 

[CNOTES]

GAME RECAP
HARRIS, ELLINGSON LEAD ESKS TO BIG WIN OVER LIONS
CFL.CA STAFF


EDMONTON — The Eskimos scored 17-straight points and spoiled Mike Reilly’s return to Edmonton by beating the BC Lions 39-23 on Friday night. Quarterback Trevor Harris continued his hot start to the season by completing 25 of 33 passes for 294 yards and three touchdowns while leading the Green and Gold to a 2-0 record. Harris also rushed for another touchdown and at one point completed 14 straight passes.


Receiver Greg Ellingson shined bright for Edmonton with his first big performance as an Eskimo, racking up 174 receiving yards and two crucial touchdowns on nine catches.


Reilly started off strong by leading BC to a touchdown on the opening offensive drive, but the veteran passer faced relentless pressure for most of the game and ended the night with just 149 passing yards to go along with a touchdown, a two-point convert and an interception. The Esks’ defensive front seemed to get stronger as the game went on, forcing multiple two-and-outs while getting to Reilly for an incredible seven sacks.


C.J. Gable had another strong game on the ground and provided balance for Edmonton’s offence by carrying the ball 23 times for 111 tough yards.


Kickers Sergio Castillo and Sean Whyte were both perfect on the night for their respective teams, with Castillo making five field goals and Whyte making three.


GAME RECAP
HARRIS, ELLINGSON LEAD ESKS TO BIG WIN OVER LIONS
SHARE


CFL.CA STAFF
EDMONTON — The Eskimos scored 17-straight points and spoiled Mike Reilly’s return to Edmonton by beating the BC Lions 39-23 on Friday night. Quarterback Trevor Harris continued his hot start to the season by completing 25 of 33 passes for 294 yards and three touchdowns while leading the Green and Gold to a 2-0 record. Harris also rushed for another touchdown and at one point completed 14 straight passes.


Receiver Greg Ellingson shined bright for Edmonton with his first big performance as an Eskimo, racking up 174 receiving yards and two crucial touchdowns on nine catches.


Reilly started off strong by leading BC to a touchdown on the opening offensive drive, but the veteran passer faced relentless pressure for most of the game and ended the night with just 149 passing yards to go along with a touchdown, a two-point convert and an interception. The Esks’ defensive front seemed to get stronger as the game went on, forcing multiple two-and-outs while getting to Reilly for an incredible seven sacks.


C.J. Gable had another strong game on the ground and provided balance for Edmonton’s offence by carrying the ball 23 times for 111 tough yards.


Kickers Sergio Castillo and Sean Whyte were both perfect on the night for their respective teams, with Castillo making five field goals and Whyte making three.


RELATED
» By the Numbers: View Boxscore
» Images: Lions at Eskimos
» Watch: Reilly scores on first drive back in Edmonton







Reilly was under fire early on as Edmonton’s defensive front applied pressure from all angles, but the veteran passer found a way to complete a 33-yard strike to receiver Bryan Burnham that put the Lions in the red zone on the opening drive of the game. Reilly capped off the 12-play, 83-yard drive with an accurate seven-yard touchdown pass to receiver Lemar Durant to grab the early lead for BC.


The Lions opted to go for two points after the score, and Reilly successfully completed the convert by scrambling to his right and finding receiver Shaq Johnson in the back corner of the end zone.


Harris and the Esks’ offence struggled to find an answer for the Lions’ defence in the opening quarter, and another quick defensive stop opened up the door for BC to add to its early lead. Reilly and company did not waste the opportunity, as a big 27-yard gallop from John White followed by a 38-yard catch from Johnson set up the first field goal attempt for the Leos.


Castillo knocked the 30-yard field goal through the uprights to give the Lions an early 11-0 lead.


The Esks managed to get on the board in the final minute of the opening quarter with a 45-yard field goal from Whyte. The kick was set up by a big 27-yard catch-and-run from Ellingson.


Defensive penalties hindered the Esks to start the second quarter, as a roughing the passer penalty helped put the Lions in position to add to their lead once again. But Edmonton’s defence held strong and forced the Lions to settle for a a 25-yard field goal from Castillo.


BC’s defence notched a turnover on the ensuing drive when defensive tackle Claudell Louis knocked the ball out of the arms of Gable to force the fumble. Davon Coleman quickly recovered the ball for BC, and the Leos converted the turnover into points on Castillo’s third field goal of the opening half, a 36-yard kick that made the score 17-3.


But the Green and Gold continued to keep things close by adding another field goal of their own soon after. Whyte came through again for the Esks with a 46-yard field goal to make it a 17-6 game after Harris helped put his team in position with key completions to receivers Tevaun Smith and Kenny Stafford.


Momentum began to fully shift as Harris started getting things going on offence in the final minutes of the first half, and Edmonton scored its first touchdown of the night when Harris found Smith for his first career CFL touchdown catch. The six-yard score was set up by two big catches from Ellingson, and Whyte kicked the extra point to bring the Esks within a touchdown.


Edmonton found itself in a position to grab its first lead of the game after defensive back Tyquwan Glass picked off Reilly to quickly give the ball back to the offence with under a minute left to go in the half.


Harris wasted zero time finding Ellingson for three more key connections, including a three-yard touchdown pass that put the Esks ahead. Whyte added the convert to make it 17-straight points for Edmonton, giving the team a 20-17 lead heading into half time.


BC battled back to tie the game up to start the second half, as Castillo showed off his impressive leg strength by making a 50-yard kick and fourth field goal of the game.


But Edmonton continued to keep things moving on offence and quickly climbed back on top after Harris led a scoring drive that was capped off by a one-yard quarterback sneak touchdown. Gable put together two solid runs to go along with big plays from Smith and Ricky Collins to put Harris in position to score the go-ahead rushing touchdown and make it a 27-20 game.


Castillo added a 45-yard field goal in the final minutes of the third quarter to keep BC within a touchdown score, but the Esks answered back and extended their lead on the final play of the third quarter with a 54-yard touchdown bomb from Harris to Ellingson. Whyte added the extra point to give Edmonton a 34-23 lead heading into the final frame.


The Lions were forced to concede a safety after relentless pressure from BC left zero room for Reilly and the offence to operate, and Whyte would add another field goal for Edmonton near the end of the game to give the Green and Gold a 16-point advantage that sealed the victory.


Week 3 will see the unbeaten Edmonton Eskimos travel on the road to face the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on Thursday, June 27, while the BC Lions will look to secure their first victory of the season when they face the Calgary Stampeders on Saturday, June 29.

 

[CNOTES]

Saturday, June 23, 2018
Time (ET) Away Home
7:00 PM Calgary Stampeders Toronto Argonauts




***********************************




CANADIAN FOOTBALL LEAGUE BEST BETS AND OPINIONS


DATE W-L-T % UNITS RECORD


06/21/2019 2-0-0 100.00% +10.00
06/20/2019 0-2-0 0.00% -11.00
06/15/2019 2-2-0 50.00% -1.00
06/13/2019 1-1-0 50.00% -0.50


Totals...............5-5-0 50.00% -2.50




******************************




BEST BETS:




DATE........................ATS................... ..UNITS..................O/U..................UNITS.............TOTAL


06/21/2019.............1 - 0....................+5.00..................1 - 0...................+5.00.............+10.00
06/20/2019.............0 - 1.....................-5.50..................0 - 1....................-5.50..............-11.00
06/15/2019.............1 - 1.....................-0.50..................1 - 1....................-0.50..............-1.00
06/13/2019.............0 - 1.....................-5.50..................1 - 0....................-0.50..............-0.50




Totals..................... 2 - 3.....................6.50.................3 - 2....................-+4.00..............-2.50

 

[CNOTES]

Saturday’s 6-pack


Updated spreads for Week 1 NFL games:


— Chiefs @ Jaguars (-3.5, 51.5)


— Titans @ Browns (-5.5, 45.5)


— Rams (-3, 51) @ Panthers


— Lions (-1.5, 48) @ Cardinals


— Bengals @ Seahawks (-8.5, 43.5)


— Colts @ Chargers (-3, 47.5)

Quote of the Day
“I just felt with the Giants I was just stuck at a place that wasn’t working for me anymore. I felt like I wasn’t going to be able to reach my full potential there; mentally, physically, spiritually, everything I felt capable of doing, I just couldn’t see it happening there.”
Odell Beckham Jr


Saturday’s quiz
When the Buccaneers came into the NFL in 1976, what other team joined the league with them that season?


Friday’s quiz
Steve Spurrier played QB for the 1976 Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who went 0-14 in their first season in the NFL.


Thursday’s quiz
Over the last 25 years, Chipper Jones hit the most home runs against the Mets.


***************************


Saturday’s Den: Looking at some Pac-12 football trends…….


Arizona— Wildcats are 22-28 SU last four years; since ’13, they’re 5-16 ATS as road underdogs. Average total in their last five bowls (3-2) is 76.2. Senior QB Tate has 20 career starts; they don’t play Washington State this year- they lost 69-28 to the Coogs LY.

Arizona State— Sun Devils lost four of last five bowls, giving up 38.8 ppg; they’re 10-4-1 in last 15 games as an underdog. Last two years, ASU is 7-2-1 vs spread coming off a loss; they’ll have a new QB this year, playing behind an experienced OL.


California— Golden Bears made only 2nd bowl since 2011 LY; they’ve got only 4 starters back on offense this year. Cal lost to arch-rival Stanford last five years, by average score of 32-19 (1-4 vs spread). Under Wilcox, Cal is 11-5 ATS as an underdog, 2-5-1 as a favorite.


Colorado— Last year’s 5-0 start turned into an injury-riddled 5-7 debacle that cost MacIntyre his job. Buffs have been to one bowl since 2007; their last bowl win was 33-28 over UTEP in the 2004 Houston Bowl. Mel Tucker is a long-time DC; this is his first head coaching job.


Oregon— This is first time since 2016 that Ducks have same HC two years in row; they lost three of last four bowls, winning LY’s bowl 7-6 over Michigan State. Last three years, under three HCs, Oregon is 1-7-1 ATS as a road underdog.


Oregon State— Last four years, Beavers are 9-39 SU, 6-11 ATS as a home underdog, 9-13-1 as a road dog- their last bowl was in 2013, when Mike Riley was HC. In their last 25 games, OSU is -24 in turnovers; they’re very experienced this year, should show improvement.


USC— Trojans were 5-7 LY; they’re 3-9 vs spread in last 12 games as a home favorite. USC is 3-2 in its last five bowls, scoring 45-45-52 in the wins, 21-7 in losses. Since 2012, Trojans are 3-12 as a road underdog.


Stanford— Won 8+ games every year for last decade; their last three bowls (2-1) were decided by total of five points. Cardinal is 8-3 in last 11 games as a road favorite; over last decade, they’re 5-0 ATS as a home underdog.


UCLA— Bruins are 13-24 SU the last three years; since 2014, they’re 8-15 as a home favorite. Over last decade, they’re 39-53 ATS (42.4%) in Pac-12 games. In their last three bowls, UCLA allayed 35-37-35 points, losing two of three.


Utah— Last two years, Utes are 8-2 vs spread as home favorites; since 2014, they’re 11-2 as a road underdog. Whittingham is 11-2 SU in his career in bowl games. Senior QB Huntley has 19 career starts.


Washington— Huskies are 32-9 SU last three years, but went 0-3 in bowls; they’ll have a new QB this year (Georgia transfer Eason- 13 starts for Dawgs). Washington has + turnover ratio the last seven years, going +51 the last five years.


Washington State— From 2009-14, Coogs were 19-54; from 2015-18, they’re 37-15; Mike Leach is a damn good coach. Since 2013, WSU is 16-5 ATS as a road underdog. This year’s QB is Gage Gubrud, a grad transfer from I-AA Eastern Washington.

 

[CNOTES]

PREVIEW
TABBIES, BOATMEN RENEW TENSIONS AT BMO FIELD
CFL.CA STAFF


TORONTO – One of the CFL’s most storied rivalries heads to the shores of Lake Ontario, as the Hamilton Tiger-Cats pay the Toronto Argonauts a visit at BMO Field Saturday afternoon.


While the Ticats look to start their season 2-0, the Argos play their 2019 season opener, with plenty of intrigue on both sides of the ball.


Two newly-minted head coaches are set to square off – Orlando Steinauer won his CFL head coaching debut in Week 1, while Corey Chamblin is at the helm of a CFL franchise for the first time since 2015.


There is no shortage of similarities between Steinauer and Chamblin – both head coaches are regarded as defensive gurus, both had stints as the Argos defensive coordinator, and both helped Toronto to Grey Cup victories while the DC.


“We let the men know it’s going to be a hostile environment,” Steinauer told Ticats.ca. “I love the road trips, it’s a chance to bond and overcome some adversity, be in an unfamiliar situation and territory.”


Hamilton Tiger-Cats quarterback Jeremiah Masoli has had success in the past against the Argos. Fresh off being named his team’s nominee for Most Outstanding Player and cementing himself as a dependable option under centre, Masoli owns a 5-1 career record against Toronto.


The Tabbies offence was largely limited by a stingy Saskatchewan Roughrider defence last week. Hamilton notched a mere 232 yards of total offence in Week 1, with Masoli passing for 169 of them. That was his lowest total in a single game since he became the Hamilton starter midway through 2017.


The Tiger-Cats were able to pull out the victory against the Riders by a 23-17 score. They were aided by Saskatchewan starter Zach Collaros being knocked out of the game after the first play from scrimmage.


The man who delivered the hit that ended Collaros’s night, linebacker Simoni Lawrence, is in the lineup against Toronto. The eight-year veteran was handed a two-game suspension for his hit on Collaros, but has appealed the suspension and will suit up for Week 2.


Saturday afternoon will be the first opportunity for Argos fans to get a look at off-season acquisition Derel Walker. The 27-year-old receiver arrives in Toronto after spending four years with the Edmonton Eskimos. Walker struggled with injuries last season, but the Argonauts are hoping to see him return to the form that saw him earn back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons in 2015 and 2016.


“I’m ready to get it rolling,” Walker told Argonauts.ca. “It’s going to be an exciting year. We’ve been putting in a lot of preparation, so we get to go against another opponent. I’m looking forward to this year and playing with this new team – we’ve got a lot of great guys on the team.”


Walker’s day won’t be an easy one, as he is expected to be matched up with Delvin Breaux, widely regarded as one of the best shutdown corners in the CFL. The Argos have a number of weapons at wide-out though, was Walker joins a receiving core that already includes S.J. Green and Armanti Edwards.


Charged with getting Walker the ball is James Franklin, who is looking for a statement season in 2019. Franklin was named the starter after Ricky Ray went down for the season in Week 2 a year ago, but failed to hang on to the gig, with McLeod Bethel-Thompson taking over.


While Franklin did regain the starting role in the back half of 2018, Bethel-Thompson is still lurking as QB2.


With both teams having well-established aerial attacks (on paper), the game may well be decided on the ground. James Wilder Jr. of Toronto will match up with Canadian Sean Thomas Erlington of the Tiger-Cats.


Thomas Erlington was limited to 68 yards rushing in Week 1, but the entire Ticats offence was quiet as well. This is the Université de Montréal alum’s first year as a starter, and he’ll be looking to prove he belongs among the league’s best rushers, while playing against one of the league’s best rushers.


Wilder Jr. is coming off a disappointing 2018 by his lofty standards. The 27-year-old rushed for over 100 yards only once. That was in Week 4 against Edmonton, which was also the only game in which he was handed the ball more than 20 times. With Chamblin at the helm, Wilder Jr.’s workload could increase.


The Tabbies offence will face the Argos on Saturday without dependable receiver Luke Tasker, who is on the one-game injured list. Canadian offensive lineman Mike Filer will get the start at centre for Hamilton, after last week’s starter Demetrius Rhaney missed a week of practice for personal business.


Saturday afternoon will be the CFL debut of Argos lineman Shane Richards. The first-overall pick in the 2019 CFL Draft is slated to start at right guard for the Boatmen. He is one of two 2019 draft picks making their debut, the other being Hamilton full-back Nikola Kalinic.


BY THE NUMBERS


232 – Total yards for the Tabbies in their win over the Riders; the fewest of any CFL team in Week 1.


0 – Wins in three tries for the Argos against Hamilton last year, including two defeats at BMO Field.


13 – Games with over 300 passing yards for Jeremiah Masoli in 2018, three of which came against the Argos.


875 – Derel Walker’s receiving yards at the time of his injury last season – third at the time in the CFL.


The Argos will honour CFL legend Ricky Ray prior to kickoff. Ray announced his retirement this off-season and remains the CFL’s fourth all-time leading passer.


Kickoff is at 4:00 p.m. ET and can be seen on TSN, RDS and ESPN+, and followed live via CFL.ca Game Tracker.

 

[CNOTES]

Hamilton (1-0) (-3.5, 52) @ Toronto (0-0)— Season opener for Toronto, downside of having a 9-team league. Ti-Cats won last three series games SU, by 14-11-14 points, covered 12 of last 15: they won last two visits here, 34-20/36-25. Winning side scored 34+ points in last five series games. Last six Hamilton-Toronto games went over. Hamilton held off Saskatchewan 23-17 LW, despite being outgained 366-232; they held Riders to four points in second half, after trailing 13-10 at halftime.

 

[CNOTES]

CFL Betting Notes - Week 2
David Schwab




Saturday, June 22


Hamilton Tiger-Cats (1-0 SU, 1-0 ATS) at Toronto Argonauts (0-0 SU, 0-0 ATS)
Point-spread: Hamilton -2 ½
Total: 52


Game Overview


Expectations for the Tiger-Cats were running high heading in to Week 1 as favorites to win the East this season. Jeremiah Masoli threw for the second-most yards last year in the CFL and he started this season with 169 yards passing and one score while completing 17 of his 28 attempts in Thursday’s win.


Brandon Banks had a big game catching the ball with six receptions for 77 yards and a score. Hamilton gained just 63 yards on the ground while allowing 172 rushing yards on defense.


Saturday will be Corey Chamblin’s debut as Toronto’s new head coach. He was the defensive coordinator for the Argonauts in their run to the 2017 Grey Cup title. Following the team’s fall from grace to just four victories last season, there is definitely some work to be done to get back on track.


James Franklin will get the start at quarterback, but he could be on a short leash if things get out of hand early. One of his top targets should be wide receiver Derel Walker, who came to Toronto from Edmonton this past offseason.


Betting Trends


-- The Tiger-Cats have covered ATS in eight of their last 10 road games against the Argonauts and the total has gone OVER in five of the last six meetings in Toronto. Hamilton also has a 4-1 edge both SU and ATS in the last five meetings overall.




*************************




CFL
Long Sheet


Week 2




Saturday, June 22


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


HAMILTON (1 - 0) at TORONTO (0-0) - 6/22/2019, 7:00 PM
Top Trends for this game.
HAMILTON is 3-11 ATS (-9.1 Units) when playing on a Saturday over the last 3 seasons.
TORONTO is 22-45 ATS (-27.5 Units) in a home game where the total is greater than or equal to 52 since 1996.

Head-to-Head Series History
HAMILTON is 4-2 against the spread versus TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
HAMILTON is 4-2 straight up against TORONTO over the last 3 seasons
4 of 6 games in this series have gone OVER THE TOTAL over the last 3 seasons


--------------------------------------------------------------------------------


CFL


Week 2


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Trend Report
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




Saturday, June 22


Hamilton Tiger-Cats


Hamilton is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games
Hamilton is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games
The total has gone OVER in 9 of Hamilton's last 12 games
Hamilton is 2-3-1 ATS in its last 6 games on the road
Hamilton is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games on the road
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Hamilton's last 5 games on the road
Hamilton is 4-1 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Toronto
Hamilton is 4-1 SU in its last 5 games when playing Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Hamilton's last 5 games when playing Toronto
Hamilton is 8-2 ATS in its last 10 games when playing on the road against Toronto
Hamilton is 4-2 SU in its last 6 games when playing on the road against Toronto
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Hamilton's last 6 games when playing on the road against Toronto


Toronto Argonauts
Toronto is 1-5 ATS in its last 6 games
Toronto is 1-9 SU in its last 10 games
The total has gone OVER in 6 of Toronto's last 9 games
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Toronto's last 7 games at home
Toronto is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 games when playing Hamilton
Toronto is 1-4 SU in its last 5 games when playing Hamilton
The total has gone OVER in 4 of Toronto's last 5 games when playing Hamilton
Toronto is 2-8 ATS in its last 10 games when playing at home against Hamilton
Toronto is 2-4 SU in its last 6 games when playing at home against Hamilton
The total has gone OVER in 5 of Toronto's last 6 games when playing at home against Hamilton


------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------




CFL
Dunkel




Saturday, June 22


Hamilton @ Toronto


Game 693-694
June 22, 2019 @ 4:00 pm


Dunkel Rating:
Hamilton
113.535
Toronto
101.050
Dunkel Team:
Dunkel Line:
Dunkel Total:
Hamilton
by 12 1/2
54
Vegas Team:
Vegas Line:
Vegas Total:
Hamilton
by 2 1/2
52
Dunkel Pick:
Hamilton
(-2 1/2); Over




*****************************


CFL Week 2 preview, odds, picks and predictions: Argonauts add more weapons
Rohit Ponnaiya


HAMILTON TIGER-CATS AT TORONTO ARGONAUTS


Line: Hamilton -2.5, O/U 52
Time: Saturday, June 22, 4:00 p.m. ET


The Argonauts will play their first game of the season on Saturday. After winning the Grey Cup in 2017 they tied for the fewest wins in the league last year, going 4-14. All four of those wins came at home, but they took the L in both of their home tilts with the Ti-Cats, losing 36-25 in September and 34-20 in October.


Hamilton QB Jeremiah Masoli had a rough start to the season, completing 17 of 28 passes for 169 yards. But we predicted as much since he was going up against a tough Saskatchewan defense that shut him down in two games last season as well. This is still the same QB that threw for 5209 yards for the No. 1 rated offense in 2018 and Hamilton's offense has stayed more or less intact - which is a rare sight in a league with as much offseason turnover as the CFL.


The Argos allowed a league-worst 560 points last year and despite adding DB Kevin Fogg will likely not be much better. Masoli struggled against some of the better defenses in the league last year but absolutely tore up the Argos, averaging 343.3 yards through the air and tossing 12 TDs in three games.


On offense, Toronto should be improved from the unit that scored the second-fewest points in the league last year at 20.5 per game. They added WR Derel Walker (875 receving yards in just 11 games in 2018), RB Tyrell Sutton and former Florida Gator speedster Chris Rainey ( 452 rushing and receiving yards with an additional 2,112 yards on returns), along with first overall draft pick OL Shane Richards from Oklahoma State.


Argo running back James Wilder Jr, one of the top HS recruits in the U.S. class of 2011, is expected to play after leaving Toronto to deal with a family issue. Wilder has been on the verge of a breakout campaign for a couple seasons and missed five games with various ailments in 2018. Quarterback James Franklin also played with more consistency towards the end of last season. Take the Over.


PICK: Over 52

 

[CNOTES]

SATURDAY, JUNE 22
GAME TIME(ET) PICK UNITS


HAM at TOR 04:00 PM


HAM -3.5


O 52.5