1. Hamilton Tiger-Cats
The Cats had a masterful performance against the Argos at home Monday, dominating in all three phases of the game, including an on-side punt that flummoxed the Argos defenders. Unfortunately they lost both CJ Gable and Andy Fantuz to the six game injured list. Previous to this, the Cats didn't have much of a running game without Gable, but non-import running back Anthony Woodson was able to pick up yards with Gable gone early. Losing Fantuz definitely hurts, but the Cats have Luke Tasker back so the receiving game shouldn't totally drop off.
2. Edmonton Eskimos
Despite not having quarterback Mike Reilly, the Eskimos have been able to get it done with Matt Nichols as the quarterback. The Eskimos have Adarius Bowman having an excellent season as a receiver and a stellar defense, likely the best in the CFL.
3. Calgary Stampeders
The Stampeders don't seem to be as good as the 2014 edition, but they still keep winning games, including a close one versus Montreal at home. They have however lost non-import running back Jon Cornish which definitely hurts. The Calgary offensive line is also a patchwork unit of late, which is probably the main difference from 2014.
4. Toronto Argonauts
Sure the Argos weren't great at Tim Horton's Field on Monday, but they have effectively played five road games and won three of them. Trevor Harris can be argued to be one of the better quarterbacks in the league and Ricky Ray might not start whenever he comes back.
5. Winnipeg Blue Bombers
The Bombers are a decent team if quarterback Drew Willy stays healthy and a bad team with backup Brian Brohm in. Right now Willy is sort of healthy so the Bombers get an OK power ranking, although he could potentially get injured at any time.
6. Ottawa REDBLACKS
Ottawa had a bye week this week, but got back on track the previous week, winning at home. Ottawa is starting to take advantage of their off-season receiver signings and former Ticat Chris Williams is still one of the CFL's most dangerous weapons. How Ottawa does really depends on how well Henry Burris can play quarterback at an advanced age. At least he is healthy.
7. Montreal Alouettes
The Als lost a close one on the road in Calgary. Rakeem Cato would seem to have a lock on the quarterback position even if Jonathon Crompton returns. However Montreal overall just isn't that great and one wonders if the whole Michael Sam thing has been a distraction.
8. BC Lions
Travis Lulay is back and the Lions are very good. Andrew Harris has been good at running back, but the Lion defense lead by linebackers Eliminian and Bighill is just meh.
9. Saskatchewan Roughriders
Lost yet again (and probably out of the playoffs). Both Glenn and Durant are injured. Time to play for next year.
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