Pro Football Insights

provocative NFL and CFL analysis

CFL POWER RANKINGS

* WEEK 1 *

1) B.C. Lions (Last Week: 1) Dave Dickenson won offensive player of the week honours in Week 1 for his sensational command of the Lions’ offense in their game winning drive against the Argonauts. The Lions should be concerned, however, about how easily the Argos were able to move the ball through the air in the second half. (Next: Bye)

2) Montreal Alouettes (3) On a big night for Als current and former, the Als overcame a sluggish first half where they struggled solving the hybrid looks of the Ti-Cats defense, to rebound and look simply unstoppable in the second half of the contest. In the latest twist to the running back saga, Eric Lapointe starts this week, backed up by Robert Edwards. (Next: @ Ottawa)

3) Edmonton Eskimos (4) Thanks in part to excellent receiver play, Ricky Ray looked sensational in his return to the CFL. Their front four of Montford, Alston, Scott, and Jeanty simply humiliated the Renegades offensive line. And LB Steven Marsh, a speedy and intense defender, played an impressive game at his linebacking position. (Next: @ Winnipeg)

4) Toronto Argonauts (2) A lack of discipline and a series of dropped balls cost the Argonauts the victory against B.C. It was almost painful to watch Mike Clemons’ sideline reaction as his team continued to blast itself in the foot at crucial points of the game. Damon Allen’s ability to sense the rush and avoid the sack is still uncanny. (Next: @ Calgary)

5) Saskatchewan Roughriders (6) Everything went well for the Riders after the lightning stopped in Regina. Nealon Greene showed no rust, and Corey Holmes was a one-man wrecking crew, contributing over 300 yards in total offense. So why aren’t the Riders ranked higher? Quality of opponent. Come Week 3 at Toronto, we’ll know if they’re for real. (Next: @ Hamilton)

6) Calgary Stampeders (5) The CFL’s great unknown got the early bye week. They will be tested this week, however, when the Argos come to town, still stinging after victory was wrenched from their hands in the last minute. Henry Burris will look to carry forward his world-beating play from last year’s playoffs into the new year. (Next: vs. Toronto)

7) Hamilton Ti-Cats (7) Despite very good protection from a reconstituted offensive line, Danny Mac’s deliveries were inconsistent against the Alouettes and second half calls for Marcus Brady do not bode well for the ageless veteran. LB Renard Cox played a heck of a second half and seemed like the only Ti-Cats defender with a pulse. (Next: vs. Saskatchewan)

8) Winnipeg Blue Bombers (8) Not much to like from a team that got into a deep hole early and seemed shell-shocked most of the night. The Bombers went away from Charles Roberts too soon, negating their most dangerous weapon. On the bright side, Keith Stokes gave notice that he's still perhaps the most dynamic return man in the league. (Next: vs. Edmonton)

9) Ottawa Renegades (9) Another embarrassment for Joe Paopao's team Friday night. Kerry Joseph had no chance to showcase his skills, as he was running for his life from the onset, absorbing 7 sacks behind his sieve-like offensive line. The team's terrible showing obscured a brilliant night by all-purpose wide receiver/returner Jason Armstead. (Next: vs. Montreal)