Posted at 11:00 AM EST. Odds are subject to change.

Winnipeg -110 over Calgary

9:00 PM EST. The Blue Bombers slipped a bit by their lofty standards last season, but let's not lose sight of the fact that this remains one of the CFL's model franchises. Winnipeg has posted nine straight double-digit win seasons, reached five consecutive Grey Cups, and enters 2026 with something to prove after an uncharacteristic early playoff exit. More importantly, the organization recognized that changes were needed and acted aggressively. New offensive coordinator Tommy Condell was brought in to inject life into a passing attack that had stagnated, while the Bombers added impact players at key positions, including Tim White, Tommy Nield and offensive tackle Jarell Broxton. This is not a team standing still.

Everything starts with Zach Collaros. The veteran quarterback endured one of the toughest seasons of his career in 2025, but there are plenty of signs pointing toward a bounce-back campaign. By all accounts, Collaros looks refreshed, motivated, and fully engaged in the new offense. Winnipeg's passing game has more weapons, better protection, and a coordinator who understands how to maximize his quarterback's strengths. If Collaros returns anywhere close to the level that made him a two-time Most Outstanding Player, the Bombers immediately become one of the most dangerous teams in the league again.

Calgary swept Winnipeg last season, and that fact is being repeated everywhere this week. Fair enough. But bettors often place too much weight on what happened last year and not enough on what has changed since. The Stampeders have improved, but they also enter the season with some uncertainty. Reggie Begelton is out, Rene Paredes may not kick, and Calgary is relying on several new pieces to step into important roles immediately. Vernon Adams Jr. gives the Stamps a chance every week, but Winnipeg's defense remains one of the league's most physical and experienced units, led by Willie Jefferson and a front seven that still knows how to disrupt opposing quarterbacks.

Week 1 is often about identifying teams whose stock is pointing upward before the market catches on. We believe Winnipeg fits that description. The Bombers have upgraded their offense, retained their championship core, and enter the season carrying a chip on their shoulder after last year's disappointment. Calgary will have its moments this season, but this number feels heavily influenced by last year's results rather than this year's reality. Winnipeg is the better team, and we're willing to lay the point and a half and back the Blue Bombers to start the season with a statement win.

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