On Saturday, two second-placed squads from their divisions clash, both aware that catching up to the leaders is a long shot. This season, both teams have shown glimpses of exceptional play.
BC Lions @ Montreal Alouettes
When these teams last clashed in Vancouver during week 5, it was the Lions who triumphed, decimating their opponents 35-19 while throwing seventh sacks onto Cody Fajardo. The upcoming game might see Montreal fortifying their offensive line, leveraging their home advantage to snatch a victory, considering the Lions' mixed 3-3 away record and a slightly weaker stance against the East Division.
Winnipeg Blue Bombers @ Saskatchewan Roughriders
The Blue Bombers approach the Labour Day weekend with a clear target: secure another year in the playoffs. Their Sunday showdown is with the Roughriders, who have enjoyed decent performances at home, albeit shaky away matches.
Back in week 2 at Mosaic Stadium, it was the Blue Bombers who emerged victorious, sealing the game 45-27 despite only having a slender lead as they entered the final quarter. Although potential upsets from a resolute home team are possible, the Bombers will walk in as the expected favorites to clinch the victory.
Toronto Argonauts @ Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The first of the Labour Day Classic pair promises intensity. With only one loss this season, the Argonauts arrive in Hamilton for Monday’s match against a Tiger-Cats squad struggling horribly at home with just a solo win—an alarming sign for any rivals, with the Argos poised to seize the opportunity.
Should Montreal sweep things on Saturday while Hamilton stumbles, hoping second place in the East Division could vanish for the Tiger-Cats. Pride will drive their team talk while the Argos, sensing vulnerability, prepare to pounce.
The Elks have finally added victories to their tally, and their upcoming visit to Calgary could be timely. With only three wins so far, the Stampeders slightly edge Edmonton despite being close rivals in the battle of Alberta for the bottom spot in the West Division.
Edmonton Elks @ Calgary Stampeders
Though the Elks’ successes have all been against Eastern teams, there's no moment like now for a win against a Western adversary. Calgary battled toe-to-toe with Toronto last week until the fourth quarter, which boosts their resolve for the must-win game.
In Major League Soccer action, one Canadian team lights up the Labour Day weekend schedule at home. Toronto’s face-off with Philadelphia Union on Thursday is beyond this coverage cutoff. However, Vancouver takes a trip to NYC right after Montreal’s Thursday clash in the Big Apple.