Expert Predicts Montreal and BC Advance to Grey Cup

SportsLine analyst Emory Hunt has placed his wagers on the two Canadian Football League finals scheduled for Saturday, November 7. He backs the Montreal Alouettes to defeat the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and the BC Lions to overcome the Edmonton Elks. The victors from these contests will meet for the 2026 Grey Cup.

Hunt views Montreal as an 8.5 point favorite in the Eastern Final. He argues that the Alouettes have operated as the league's best team throughout the regular season. Their ability to manage late-season competition gives them an edge in the postseason. Hunt believes Montreal possesses sufficient offensive balance to succeed even if one facet of their attack is neutralized. He specifically notes that if Winnipeg's ground game is stopped, the Blue Bombers lack the necessary passing threat to sustain a comeback.

In the Western Final, Hunt sides with BC as a 1.5 point favorite against Edmonton. The Lions arrived at the playoffs in strong form, as demonstrated by their semifinal victory over the Saskatchewan Roughriders. That game required BC to fight back from a deficit, showcasing their resilience. However, Hunt warns that the effort required in that opener may leave the Lions with less energy than the well-rested Elks.

The season series between BC and Edmonton has produced close results. Hunt anticipates a low-scoring affair that will likely be decided in the final moments. Despite his lean toward the Lions against the spread, he acknowledges the momentum behind the Elks. He stated, "I strongly feel the magical season for Edmonton continues for another week."

Hunt brings extensive experience to these picks. Born in New Orleans, he played running back at the University of Louisiana-Lafayette. He later coached high school football and launched the analysis site Football Gameplan. His betting record over the last three seasons stands at 132 wins, 111 losses, and 2 pushes in the NFL. In the CFL this season, he holds a 44-38 record on spread picks.

The Eastern Final pits the Alouettes against the Blue Bombers, who advanced by defeating the Toronto Argonauts. The Western Final features the Lions, who eliminated the reigning champion Saskatchewan Roughriders, against the Elks. All four teams are currently in contention for the national championship.