The 2026 CFL season's opening week was a thrilling affair, with several teams showcasing their potential and setting the stage for an exciting season ahead. The AMSOIL Power Rankings reflect the early excitement, with some teams maintaining their top positions and others rising to the challenge. Here's a breakdown of the rankings and the key takeaways from the week's action.
The Top Contenders
Saskatchewan Roughriders: The Roughriders dominated the rankings last season, and their continuity and experienced core make them the team to beat. Their Week 2 matchup against the BC Lions, a rematch of last year's Western Final, will be a true test of their mettle.
BC Lions: The Lions, led by Nathan Rourke, are eager to make a statement after last year's playoff defeat. Their Week 2 game against the Roughriders promises to be a high-stakes affair, with both teams aiming to assert their dominance early.
Montreal Alouettes: Jason Maas' team showed resilience in their overtime victory over Hamilton. The offence, particularly Davis Alexander and the receiving duo of Tyson Philpot and Tyler Snead, is a force to be reckoned with. The Alouettes are poised to contend for the top spot.
Rising Stars and Surprises
Winnipeg Blue Bombers: The Blue Bombers' late-game heroics against Calgary showcased their clutch gene. Brady Oliveira's scoring prowess and the addition of Jake Ceresna, forming a formidable pass-rushing duo with Willie Jefferson, make them a Western Conference threat.
Edmonton Elks: Justin Rankin's performance against Ottawa was a clear indicator of his potential to be a top player. The Elks' road win over the REDBLACKS is a significant step towards ending their playoff drought.
Calgary Stampeders: Despite the loss to the Blue Bombers, Vernon Adams Jr.'s leadership and the emergence of Dedrick Mills and Jalen Philpot as a dynamic trio bode well for the Stampeders' future.
East Division Contenders
Ottawa REDBLACKS: The REDBLACKS showed glimpses of promise in their Week 1 loss to Edmonton. Daniel Adeboboye's performance and their determination to battle until the end are positive signs for the team.
Toronto Argonauts: The Argonauts, with a Week 2 bye, will make their season debut against the Alouettes. Mike Miller's team has added talent, and a strong performance against Montreal could shake up the rankings.
The Bottom of the Rankings
- Toronto Argonauts: The Argonauts' bye week gives them a chance to prepare for their season opener against the Alouettes. A strong performance in this game could propel them up the rankings.
Looking Ahead
The second week of the season promises to be even more intriguing, with several teams aiming to make their mark. The AMSOIL Power Rankings will continue to evolve as the season progresses, but for now, these teams are setting the tone for an exciting CFL campaign.
In my opinion, the early rankings are a reflection of potential and recent performances. However, the CFL is a league of surprises, and the season is far from over. The true test of these teams will come as the season progresses, and the battle for the top spot will be fierce.
