It’s not how you start; it’s how you finish.
The 2011 BC Lions proved that mantra right, going from last place in the West to Grey Cup champions... and the 2026 edition is quickly following suit.
Set as short road chalk in Calgary, my Lions vs. Stampeders predictions and CFL picks break down why BC will make it five straight wins, clinching a home playoff game in the process.
Kickoff is set for 7 p.m. ET at McMahon Stadium, with the game airing on TSN.
Who will win Lions vs Stampeders: Lions moneyline (-135)
After starting the season 1-5, the BC Lions have quickly found their footing, emerging as the hottest team in the CFL with just two weeks remaining in the regular season.
BC has rattled off nine wins in its last 10 contests, and its high-powered offence features both reigning MOP Nathan Rourke and a two-headed rushing attack led by Zander Horvath and James Butler.
That ground game will torch a Calgary Stampeders defence surrendering a league-high 5.9 yards per carry. BC is also averaging 7.8 yards per play on first down, second only to Montreal, while Calgary has been incredibly undisciplined this season, taking 8.5 penalties per game, the worst mark in the league.
Taking the Leos on the moneyline is playable to -150.
COVERS INTEL: BC's last five wins have come by an average margin of 13.5 points, scoring 40+ points in two of those contests.
Lions vs Stampeders total prediction: Over 64.5 (-115)
Both the Lions and Stampeders are averaging more than 30 points per game this season, and with Calgary surrendering the second-most points per game in the league (33.8), expect a shootout at McMahon.
BC’s defence also ranks No. 1 in limiting opponents’ rushing yards per game, so Calgary should be airing it out early and often, especially in a game-trailing script.
Playable to -120.
Lions vs Stampeders same-game parlay
BC has prevailed in five of the last six meetings between these two teams, and the Leos have also won two straight in Calgary.
With Rourke and Vernon Adams Jr. both boasting passer ratings above 110.0, expect each quarterback to find success through the air in favourable conditions.
Lions vs Stampeders SGP
- Lions moneyline
- Over 64.5
Lions vs Stampeders weather
Calgary is expected to see clear skies Saturday night, with temperatures around 13°C at 7 p.m.
Any chance of rain is unlikely.
Lions vs Stampeders odds
- Spread: Lions -1.5 (-115) | Stampeders +1.5 (-105)
- Moneyline: Lions -135 | Stampeders +115
- Over/Under: Over 64.5 (-115) | Under 64.5 (-105)
Lions vs Stampeders key injuries
Lions: LB Woodly Appolon, DL Levi Bell, RB James Butler, WR Nick Cenacle, DB Jett Elad, DL David Gusta, K Mark McNamee, DB Garry Peters, FB Riley Pickett, LB Max Rouyer, OL Chris Schleuger, DL Matt Spatny, DL Jonah Tovai.
Stampeders: WR Ajou Ajou, WR Damien Alford, OL Bradley Ashmore, WR Reggie Begelton, WR Dejon Brissett, OL D'Antne Demery, DB Adrian Greene, DL Elijah Hills, DB Derrick Moncrief, LB R.J. Moten, DB Godfrey Onyeka, LB Eric Rascoe, OL Zack Williams.
Lions vs Stampeders trend
Dating back to 2023, BC is 7-3 SU in the last 10 head-to-head matchups.
How to watch Lions vs Stampeders and game info
| Location | McMahon Stadium, Calgary, AB |
| Date | Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026 |
| Kick-off | 7 p.m. ET |
| TV | TSN |
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
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