Nathan Rourke and the BC Lions showcased their offensive potential in Week 1, and the Leos are in great position to keep the momentum going against a Winnipeg Blue Bombers offense missing Zach Collaros.
My Lions vs. Blue Bombers predictions break down why Rourke & Co. should make it two straight wins to start the season when these Western rivals lock horns in Winnipeg.
Find out more in my CFL picks for Thursday, June 12, with kickoff set for 8:30 p.m. ET on TSN.
Lions vs Blue Bombers prediction
My Lions vs Blue Bombers pick: Lions -2.5 (-115 at BET99)
It wasn’t the prettiest first half for the BC Lions in their Week 1 home opener, but Nathan Rourke & Co. still found a way to take care of the Edmonton Elks, cruising to a 31-14 victory.
Despite turning the ball over on downs on their first two drives of the game (both failed short-yardage attempts by backup quarterback Chase Brice), the Leos' offense delivered in the second half, with Rourke throwing for three touchdowns and the BC defense allowing just one score.
The Leos’ defensive line was dominant all night, with 2023 CFL Defensive Player of the Year Matthieu Betts and former Indianapolis Colts edge rusher Kemoko Turay constantly pressuring Tre Ford and forcing him to scramble.
That kind of front-seven disruption should do wonders against Winnipeg Blue Bombers backup QB Chris Streveler, whose game relies far more on mobility than pure pocket passing.
Given Winnipeg gunslinger Zach Collaros is suspended after failing to appear for an offseason drug test, BC holds a clear advantage — especially with the Blue Bombers coming off the awkward timing of a Week 1 bye. Add in the Bombers losing WR No. 1 Kenny Lawler during the offseason, and the Leos should be able to hone in on running back Brady Oliveira.
Meanwhile, there’s no doubt Winnipeg made some solid additions to their front seven, bringing in established defensive end James Vaughters and linebacker Jonathan Jones. However, a lack of familiarity with defensive coordinator Jordan Younger's system could result in some early growing pains.
With the Lions' stop-unit already firing on all cylinders, Back BC to cover and improve to 2-0 on Thursday night.
Lions vs Blue Bombers same-game parlay (SGP)
I've already touched on the Lions' front four wreaking havoc in their win over the Elks, but it's also important to highlight the secondary doing their part.
The Leos surrendered just 178 passing yards in their win over Edmonton, and Streveler could be in for a long night after starting in just one game last season, completing only 13 of 21 attempts for 127 yards in Week 5 against Ottawa.
With Winnipeg expected to employ a run-heavy game script in the first half, it'll be tough for the Bombers to eclipse their team total of 23.5.
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Lions vs Blue Bombers odds
Lions vs Blue Bombers live odds
Lions vs Blue Bombers opening odds
- Spread: BC -2.5 (-110) | Winnipeg +2.5 (-110)
- Moneyline: BC -138 | Winnipeg +100
- Over/Under: Over 48.5 (-118) | Under 48.5 (-118)
Lions vs Blue Bombers trend
The Under has cashed in seven of the last 10 head-to-head matchups. Find more CFL betting trends for Lions vs Blue Bombers.
How to watch Lions vs Blue Bombers and game info
Location | Investors Group Field, Winnipeg, MB |
Date | Thursday, 6-7-2025 |
Kick-off | 8:30 p.m. ET |
TV | TSN |
Lions vs Blue Bombers key injuries
Lions: Adam Auclair LB (Out), Jeremy Lewis LB (Out), Maxime Rouyer LB (Out), Deshawn Stevens LB (Out), Josh Woods LB (Out).
Blue Bombers: Peyton Logan RB (Out), Jake Kelly DB (Out), Enock Makonzo DB (Out), Josh Hagerty DB (Out), Eric Lofton OL (Out), Pat Neufeld OL (Questionable).
Find our latest CFL injury reports.
Lions vs Blue Bombers weather
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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