Best CFL Betting Sites in Canada

Are you seeking the best Canadian Football League betting sites that cater to your unique needs? Well, prepare to embark on an exhilarating CFL betting journey, where the stakes are high and the rewards are even higher.

Here at MansionBet, we have meticulously searched the vast expanse of the internet to present to you the top CFL betting sites that offer an array of exceptional strengths and offerings. Ranging from unparalleled coverage of the CFL to a bilingual betting site and user-friendly interface, we have left no stone unturned in our quest to provide you with the best options available.

Top CFL Betting Sites

1
Betovo
Betovo
5.0
Deposit $100, Play with $200
2
spinoli
Spinoli
5.0
100% Up To C$150
3
Lucky Koala
5.0
Welcome Sport Bonus 100% up to C$150
4
RoyalGame
5.0
100% Up To $150
5
Cashed
Cashed
5.0
100% Up To $100
6
Talismania
Talismania
5.0
100% UP TO $150
7
Betsafe
Betsafe
5.0
100% UP TO €25 + €10 FREE BET
8
GGBET
5.0
500% Welcome Bonus on First 3 Deposits up to C$4,700
9
Bodog
Bodog
5.0
$400 Welcome Bonus
10
Dreambet
Dream.bet
5.0
100% UP TO C$300 WELCOME BONUS
11
Dolfwin
DolfWin
5.0
100% Welcome Sports Bonus 100% Up To C$150
12
Betonic
5.0
100% up to C$150
13
Select.Bet
Select.Bet
5.0
100% Up To C$150 Welcome Bonus
14
Slotuna
Slotuna
5.0
100% UP TO $150
15
PowBet
Powbet
5.0
First Deposit Bonus 100% Up To €100
16
PowerPlay
4.9
100% Bonus on First Deposit up to $500
17
Sports Interaction
Sports Interaction
4.9
125% Welcome Bonus up to $250
18
GreatWin
GreatWin
4.9
100% UP To $750 + 200 FS
19
TonyBet
4.7
100% Up To C$350
20
LeoVegas Canada
LeoVegas
4.7
$50 In Free Bets When You Bet $25

CFL betting sites

Football is one of the most beloved sports worldwide, and Canada is no exception. In fact, the Canadian Football League (CFL) has been a staple of Canadian sports culture for over 100 years, providing thrilling entertainment and fierce competition for fans across the country.

But the excitement doesn't end on the field, as for many Canadians, the CFL offers an opportunity to bet on their favourite teams and potentially score big wins. That's why we've put together a comprehensive review of the top CFL betting platforms available. 

From the global reputation of 888Sport to the award-winning mobile platform of LeoVegas, we've examined each site in detail to provide readers with the most up-to-date and informative review possible.

So, recline and unwind, for we are about to unveil the premier CFL betting sites that are guaranteed to satisfy the cravings of Canadian bettors who are seeking the ultimate sports betting experience.

How We Choose the Bookmakers

Selecting the right sports betting site can be quite a daunting task. With so many options out there, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. But if you’re a fan of the Canadian Football League (CFL), then you need to pay extra attention to the factors that make a bookmaker stand out when it comes to CFL betting. 

In this section, we’ll delve into the key factors that we scrutinize when reviewing sports betting sites, and help you find the ideal CFL bookmaker that caters to your specific betting needs. The most crucial factors we consider include: 

  • CFL Promotions and Bonuses: One of the most important aspects we evaluation when rating sports betting sites is the availability and quality of promotions and bonuses for CFL betting. Whether it’s a sign-up bonus or a special offer for a particular CFL game, we seek out bookmakers that go above and beyond to reward their customers.
  • CFL coverage: To us, CFL coverage is a non-negotiable when it comes to rating bookmakers. We look for sites that provide extensive CFL coverage, including a broad range of markets such as moneylines, player props, and futures. We also assess the quality of the insights and analysis provided by the bookmaker to help bettors make informed betting decisions.
  • Odds and Lines: At MansionBet, odds and lines are the lifeblood of sports betting, and we scrutinize them to ensure that our readers get the best possible value for their CFL bets. We compare CFL odds and CFL lines across multiple sites and look for discrepancies that could give bettors an edge.
  • Mobile Betting: The mobile revolution has transformed sports betting, and as a result, we take into account the quality of the bookmaker’s mobile app and mobile site. We strive to recommend bookmakers that provide a seamless user experience on both desktop and mobile devices, so that CFL bettors can place their wager anytime, anywhere.
  • Payment Options: Finally, we evaluate the payment options available to CFL bettors, as it’s critical to have a variety of safe and secure options to deposit and withdraw funds. At MansionBet, we only recommend bookmakers that offer a range of payment options, including credit cards, e-wallets, and cryptocurrencies, to cater to the diverse need of modern sports bettors.

Best CFL Betting Sites

Are you ready to step up your CFL betting game and hit the jackpot this season? Don’t waste your time searching for the best sites, because we’ve done all the hard work for you! These top-rated CFL betting sites are sure to ignite your passion for football and sports betting and satisfy your thirst for winning big.

Betting Site

Best for

888Sport

888Sport

Best for banking variety

LeoVegas

LeoVegas

Best for mobile betting

Sports Interaction

Sports Interaction

Best for Canadian sports betting

PointsBet

PointsBet

Best for unique features

Betway

Betway

Best for bonuses and promotions

Bet99

Bet99

Best for competitive odds

888Sport

888sport

888Sport is a reputable online sportsbook that provides a plethora of sports betting options, including live betting and a mobile app that’s easy to use. Although their coverage of the CFL may not be as extensive as other sportsbooks, they still offer a good selection of CFL betting options that can cater to the needs of Canadian bettors.

  • Strengths: Global reputation, frequent promotions, intuitive mobile app, and a wide range of accepted payment methods.
  • Weaknesses: No live chat, doesn’t accept cryptocurrency.
  • Features: Live betting, live streaming, mobile betting, and early cash-out.
  • Apps: iOS and Android Mobile App
  • Deposit Methods: Visa/MasterCard, PayPal, ApplyPay, Skrill, MuchBetter, Neteller, ecoPayz, Trustly, Interac, Pay4Fun, iDebit, Bank Transfer.
100% Bonus Up to $300 +$10 Casino Bonus on Your First Deposit

LeoVegas

LeoVegas Canada

LeoVegas is a trendy sportsbook that boasts an outstanding user interface and a fantastic range of sports betting options. While they predominantly focus on soccer and basketball, their coverage of the CFL is still quite impressive and competitive compared to other Canadian sportsbooks.

  • Strengths: Award-winning mobile betting platform, competitive odds, 24/7 live chat, and weekly promotions.
  • Weaknesses: High wagering requirements for the welcome bonus and limited banking options.
  • Features: Live betting, live streaming, mobile and early cash-out.
  • Apps: iOS and Android mobile apps.
  • Deposit Methods: Visa/MasterCard, MuchBetter, Interac, InstaDebit, iDebit, Paysafecard.
$50 In Free Bets When You Bet $25

Sports Interaction

Sports Interaction

Sports Interaction is a well-known Canadian bookmaker that offers a range of sports betting options, including live betting and a quality mobile app. They are recognized for their exceptional coverage of the CFL, as well as other popular Canadian sports like hockey and basketball.

  • Strengths: Unique CFL promotions, Great sports coverage, and 24/7 customer support.   
  • Weaknesses: Outdated site design, and doesn’t accept cryptocurrency.
  • Features: Live betting, early cash-out, mobile betting, and SIA analysis with weekly insight on betting strategies.
  • Apps: iOS and Android mobile app.
  • Deposit Methods: Visa/MasterCard, iDebit, Interac, MuchBetter, InstaDebit, eCheck, Paysafecard, ecoPayz, Instant Payments. 
125% Welcome Bonus up to $250

PointsBet

PointsBet is an exceptional sportsbook that offers a unique array of betting options, including their renowned points spread betting and various bonuses and promotions. As a sportsbook that primarily caters to the Canadian market, their CFL coverage ranks near the top among sports betting sites in the country. 

  • Strengths: 24/7 customer support, live same-game parlays, unique sports betting features, and a well-designed platform.
  • Weaknesses: Limited live streaming, and no phone support. 
  • Features: Live betting, early cash-out, live same-game parlay, and PointsBetting.
  • Apps: iOS and Android mobile app.
  • Deposit Methods: Visa/MasterCard, Maestro, PayPal, Bank Transfer, eCheck, cash and prepaid cards.
✓ Sport-specific bonus offers ✓ Second chance bets if your first doesn’t hit

Betway

Betway Canada

Betway is an established sportsbook that offers an extensive range of sports betting options, including live betting, mobile betting, and early cash out on bets. They also offer reliable coverage of the CFL, in addition to popular international sports like soccer and tennis.

  • Strengths: Tons of ongoing promotions, 24/7 live chat customer support, modern betting platform, and rewarding loyalty program.
  • Weaknesses: Weekly withdrawal limits, doesn’t accept cryptocurrency.
  • Features: Live betting, live streaming, mobile betting and early cash-out.
  • Apps: iOS and Android mobile app.
  • Deposit Methods: Visa/MasterCard, Maestro, Interac, InstaDebit, iDebit, Paysafecard, NeoSurf, MuchBetter, eCheck.
100% Deposit Bonus Up to $200

Bet99

Bet99

Bet99 is a fairly new sportsbook that offers an excellent selection of sports betting options, including live betting, live streaming, and a user-friendly interface. Although their CFL coverage may not be as comprehensive as some other betting sites, they more than make up for it with their competitive odds and unwavering commitment to ensuring customer satisfaction. 

  • Strengths: Easy to navigate, bilingual betting site (French/English), variety of player props, focused on the Canadian market.
  • Weaknesses: No phone support, limited banking options.
  • Features: Live betting, live streaming, mobile betting, and major sponsorships with big brands.
  • Apps: No dedicated app.
  • Deposit Methods: Visa/MasterCard, Interac, MuchBetter, InstaDebit, iDebit, ecoPayz, Flexepin
First Bet Encore up to $1,000

How to Open an Account at a CFL Betting Site?

Opening an account at one of the aforementioned CFL betting sites is incredibly easy and straightforward, but to help you get started, I’m here to guide you through the process. 

  • Step 1: Choose a Betting Site - Before you can open an account, you need to choose a betting site that suits your needs. Check out our list above of the top CFL betting sites or do your own research to find one that stands out to you. 
  • Step 2: Click “Sign Up” or “Register” - To bet on CFL games, you must officially register with the chosen site. Simply click on either “Sign Up” or “Register”, depending on the site, to initiate the registration process. 
  • Step 3: Provide Your Personal Information - You will then be taken to a page where you need to fill in your personal details, such as your name, address, date of birth, and contact information. Make sure you fill in all the fields accurately as you will likely need to verify your account later. 
  • Step 4: Create a Username and Password - Choose a unique username and password that you can easily remember. Your password should be strong and contain a combination of letters, numbers, and symbols to ensure your account stays secure. 
  • Step 5: Verify Your Account - Before you can start to bet on CFL events, you’ll need to verify your account. The betting site will usually send you an email or text message with the verification link. Click on it to confirm your account. 
  • Step 6: Make Your First Deposit - Now that your account is verified, you can make your first deposit. Most CFL betting platforms offer a range of payment methods, such as credit cards, debit cards, e-wallets, or bank transfers. Choose the one that works best for you and follow the on-screen instructions to make your deposit.  

Congratulations! You have successfully opened an account at a CFL betting site and are ready to start placing bets on your favourite teams. Remember to claim any welcome bonuses that may be applicable when you go to make your first deposit and set your preferred currency on the site, which would be CAD if you live in Canada.

Recommendations

If you’re looking to open an account at a CFL betting site, here are some recommendations to keep in mind: 

  • Choose a trustworthy operator: Don’t trust any old site with your hard-earned money, do your research and find a site with a good reputation, proper licensing, and positive reviews from other users.
  • Read the fine print: Before you sign up, make sure to read the terms and conditions. This will give you a better understanding of the platform’s rules, fees, and requirements. Nobody likes surprises, especially when it comes to their money.
  • Score some bonuses: The majority of CFL betting sites offer bonuses and promotions to new users, such as free bets or deposit bonuses. Be sure to take advantage of these offers, but also make sure you understand the terms and conditions that come with them.
  • Secure your payment method: Always use a secure payment method, like PayPal, Skrill, or a credit/debit card, when making deposits and withdrawals. This way you can be sure that your financial information is always protected.
  • Bet responsibly: Gambling should be fun and entertaining, not a cause for stress or financial hardship. Set limits on your CFL bets and don’t chase losses. Remember, it’s all about having fun and enjoying the game!

CFL Betting Promotions and Bonuses

The top-tier CFL betting sites will always look to reward their customers with ongoing promotions and special bonuses. Here are some of the most common types of promotions you can expect to come across:

  • Welcome Bonus - This is one of the most popular types of promotions offered by bookmakers. It’s typically a percentage of your initial deposit that the bookmaker will match up to a certain amount.

    For example, if the bookmaker offers a 100% welcome bonus up to $100, and you deposit $100 into your betting account, you’ll receive an extra $100 to use on CFL bets. If you’re a new user, this is definitely a promotion worth taking advantage of, as it can give you more money to bet with right off the bat. 

  • Free Bets - Another common type of promotion is free bets. This is when a CFL betting site gives you a certain amount of money to bet with, without requiring you to make a deposit.

    For example, the sportsbook might offer a $10 free bet when you first sign up to use their platform. While free bets can be a great way to test out a new betting site and place some bets without risking your own money, they usually come with some restrictions as well, such as reduced odds or expiration dates. 

  • Boosted Odds - Boosted or enhanced odds promotions are when the bookmaker offers better CFL odds than usual on certain games or outcomes. For example, they might offer odds of +500 for a particular team to win, when the normal odds are only +250.

    While these promotions can be a great way to increase your potential payout, it’s important to remember that they often come with restrictions or limitations as well. 

  • Cashback Promotions - Cashback promotions are when the bookmaker gives you a portion of your losses back as bonus funds.

    For example, they might offer a 10% cashback promotion on all CFL bets placed over a certain period of time. Even though this can be a nice way to recoup some of your losses, it’s important to note that you’re still losing money in the first place.

CFL Structure

Are you ready to dive into the exciting realm of CFL football? Before you place your CFL bets, it is important to understand the structure of the league. So, sit back, relax, and let me take you on a quick journey through the CFL season. 

The CFL regular season runs from June to November, with each of the nine teams playing 18 games. The teams are divided into two divisions - the East and the West. The East Division is made up of the Toronto Argonauts, Hamilton Tiger-Cats, Ottawa Redblacks, and Montreal Alouettes. Meanwhile, the West Division is composed of the Calgary Stampeders, Edmonton Elks, Saskatchewan Roughriders, BC Lions, and Winnipeg Blue Bombers. 

After the regular season, the top three teams from each division advance to the playoffs, along with two wild-card teams. The wild-card teams are the two teams with the best records that did not finish in the top three of their respective divisions. 

The playoffs are split into two rounds, with the first being the divisional semi-finals. In this round, the second-place team from each division hosts the third-place team from the same division. The winners of these games move on to the divisional finals, where they face the first-place team from their respective divisions.

The winners of the divisional finals then face off in the Grey Cup, which is the CFL’s championship game and one of the most prestigious sporting events in Canada. Following the end of the season, the CFL also hosts a number of events, including the CFL Draft and the CFL Combine. 

CFL Betting Markets and Betting Types

When it comes to CFL betting, there are several popular betting markets and types to choose from. And as you can likely imagine, understanding how to read CFL betting odds and CFL betting lines is key to making informed wagers. So, without further ado, let’s get into it!

  • Moneyline Bets - The most popular betting market for the CFL is the moneyline, where you simply bet on which team will win the game outright. CFL betting odds for the moneyline are represented by a plus or minus sign, indicating the favourite and underdog respectively.

    For example, if the Toronto Argonauts are listed at -150, it means that they are the favourites and you would need to bet $150 to win $100. On the other hand, if the Ottawa Redblacks are listed as +200, they are the underdogs and a $100 bet would win you $200. 
  • Point Spread Bets - Another popular bet type is the point spread, which involves betting on the margin of victory for a particular team. In CFL betting, the point spread is usually listed as a half-point, such as -3.5 or +7.5.

    For example, if the Saskatchewan Roughriders are listed at -3.5, they would need to win the game by at least four points for you to win the bet. Conversely, if the BC Lions are listed at +7.5, they could lose the game by up to seven points and you would still win your bet.
  • Prop Bets - CFL betting also offers prop bets, which are wagers on specific events or occurrences within a game. For example, a prop bet may be offered on the total number of passing yards for a particular quarterback or which player will score the first touchdown of the game.
  • Exotic Bets - Exotic bets are another type of betting that offers unique and interesting wagers beyond the traditional moneyline and point spread.

    For example, a futures bet may allow you to wager on which team will win the Grey Cup at the end of the season, while a parlay bet, where you combine multiple bets into one, can offer higher payouts but requires all bets to win in order for you to cash in.

    When it comes to reading CFL betting lines, it’s important to understand how to interpret the plus and minus signs, as well as the numbers associated with them. A plus sign indicates the underdog and the amount you can win by betting $100, while a minus sign indicates the favourite and the amount you would need to bet to win $100.

    Prop and exotic bets can be a bit more complex, but the concept remains the same. Odds are listed alongside the wager, and you will need to read them in order to make an informed and educated bet.

Where to Find the Best CFL Odds?

As a bettor, you should always be on the hunt for the best CFL betting odds. After all, who doesn’t want to maximize their winnings?

Now, when it comes to point spread and total points bets, the odds are usually -110 across the board. However, the line might vary slightly from one bookmaker to another. So, if you’re betting on the under for total points, it’s wise to choose a betting site that has the line at 48.5 instead of another one that has it at 48. Every half-point counts, my friend! 

Moneyline odds are another story, however, in that they can vary significantly between different CFL betting sites. Some bookies might lean towards one team, while others might offer more generous odds overall. Therefore, before joining a betting site, you should take a gander at the CFL markets you’re interested in and compare the odds with other bookmakers. If a site has higher odds for both teams on all games, it’s a sign that their CFL odds are just better.

Simply put, finding the best CFL betting odds can be an absolute game-changer. Don’t settle for subpar odds when you could be raking in the dough!

CFL Betting Features

When it comes to CFL betting, the best sites are those that provide a variety of features to enhance the overall betting experience and increase your chances of winning. Some of the top features to consider are: 

  • Competitive CFL Odds: The most crucial aspect of any betting site is the odds it provides. The best CFL betting sites offer competitive odds that allow bettors to get the most value for their wagers. Sports Interaction, in particular, is recognized for its competitive CFL odds.
  • Live Betting: Live betting is an excellent feature that enables bettors to place wagers on CFL games while they are being played. This feature is particularly useful for CFL betting because games can be fast-paced and full of surprises. Live betting allows bettors to react to the game as it unfolds and make informed decisions based on what they are seeing. 888sport is regarded as one of the top betting sites that offer live betting options for CFL games.
  • CFL Betting Bonuses and Promotions: The best betting sites provide bonuses and promotions that can give bettors an edge in the game. These bonuses can take the form of free bets, deposit matches, or other types of incentives. For instance, Bet99 each offer a different welcome bonus that can help you win more money, but they may not be equal in value.
  • Mobile Betting: Mobile betting is another critical feature for bettors who want to place wagers on the go. The best CFL betting sites offer mobile betting apps that are user-friendly and provide a seamless betting experience. For example, BetWay is one of the top betting sites that has an excellent mobile betting app, allowing bettors to place wagers on CFL games directly from their smartphone or tablet.

CFL Betting Tips and Strategy

Ah, sports betting - the art of risking money on the outcome of a game. It's a pastime enjoyed by millions around the world, and when done right, it can be a lucrative source of income. So, how do you build a successful sports betting strategy? Well, allow me to give you some tips that might be particularly relevant to CFL betting.

  • Do your research - First and foremost, do your research. In order to make informed bets, you need to have a good understanding of the CFL, the teams, the players, and their past performances. You can't just blindly bet on your favourite team and hope for the best. Look at the stats, follow the news, and stay up-to-date on injuries and suspensions.
  • Consider the odds - Next, consider the odds. The odds are a reflection of the probability of a particular outcome, as determined by the bookmakers. They are not always accurate, but they are a good place to start. If the odds are heavily in favour of one team, it may be wise to bet on the underdog. On the other hand, if the odds are even or close to it, it may be better to avoid that game altogether.
  • Bankroll management - Another important factor to consider is bankroll management. This means setting a budget for yourself and sticking to it. Don't bet more than you can afford to lose, and don't try to recoup your losses by making bigger and riskier bets. It's all too easy to get caught up in the excitement of a game and forget about your budget, but trust me, it's not worth it.
  • Consider all possibilities - In sports, anything can happen. A team may be on a winning streak, but that doesn't mean they will continue to win. Likewise, a team may be struggling, but they could still pull off an upset. There are a lot of variables that can affect the outcome of a game, and it's important to take them into account when making your bets.

Singles vs Parlays

Both single bets and parlays involve risking money on the outcome of one or more games. In both cases, you are hoping to win money by correctly predicting the outcome of the game(s) you bet on, and, of course, both can be a lot of fun!

A single bet, as the name suggests, is a bet on a single game. You are betting on the outcome of that game, and if you win, you get paid out based on the odds of that particular bet. If you lose, well, you lose your bet.

A parlay, on the other hand, is a bet on multiple games. In a parlay, you are combining two or more bets into one, and in order to win, you need to correctly predict the outcome of all the games in the parlay. The payout for a parlay is usually higher than that of a single bet, but the odds of winning are lower since you have to get every single bet correct.

So, when should you use each one? Well, it depends on your betting strategy and your personal preferences. Single bets are generally considered safer since you are only betting on one game, so you have a better chance of winning. They are also good for beginners who are just getting into sports betting and want to start small.

On the other hand, parlays are great for those who are looking for bigger payouts and are willing to take on more risk. If you have a good understanding of the games you are betting on and are confident in your ability to make accurate predictions, a parlay can be a great way to maximize your winnings.

Let's look at some examples. Say you want to bet on a CFL game between the Toronto Argonauts and the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. A single bet would be betting on the outcome of that one game - say, betting on the Ti-Cats to win. If they do win, you get paid out based on the odds of that bet.

Now, let's say you want to make a parlay bet. You could combine that Toronto vs. Hamilton game with another CFL game - say, a game between the Saskatchewan Roughriders and the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. You could bet on the Ti-Cats and the Roughriders to win, and if they both do, you get paid out at a higher rate than if you had made two separate single bets.

In the end, the choice between a single bet and a parlay comes down to your personal preferences and your betting strategy. Both can be fun and profitable, but it's up to you to decide which one works best for you.

How to Bet on the CFL from an NFL Perspective?

Just like in the NFL, you can bet on the point spread, moneyline, and over/under for each CFL game. However, there are a few differences to keep in mind. For one, CFL games tend to have higher scores due to the larger field and the fact that teams only have three downs instead of four. So, you may need to adjust your expectations for over/under bets.

Another difference to note is that the CFL playoffs consist of three rounds of best-of-three series instead of a single-elimination tournament like the NFL. This can impact your approach to betting on the CFL postseason, as you may want to look for teams better suited to a multi-game series.

One strategy for CFL betting is to focus on home-field advantage. Home teams have historically performed better in the CFL, so they may have a bit of an edge in your bets. Additionally, you should pay attention to which teams are coming off a long road trip since CFL teams often have to travel long distances for away games.
Lastly, the CFL has a unique rule called the "rouge," which awards a single point to a team that kicks the ball into the opposing end zone and the ball is not returned out of the end zone. Keep in mind how the rouge can impact the final score of a game.

Betting on the Grey Cup

Betting on regular season games is a fantastic way to introduce yourself to the exciting world of CFL betting. However, if you want to up the ante and add even more thrill to the game, then betting on the Grey Cup is the way to go. But how does it work? Don’t worry, I’ve got your back with all of the juicy details!

When you place a bet on the Grey Cup, you can bet on various things like the winning team, the point spread, and the total score, as well as some enticing player and team prop bets. You’re basically just trying to predict what will happen in the game and betting on it. 

Nowadays, most people place their bets online through a reputable sportsbook. Although, if you’re old-school, you can still go to a retail site in person. Just remember to check the legitimacy of the bookmaker before you hand over your money. 

Once you’ve found your preferred sportsbook, it’s time to make your move. You can choose from a variety of different betting options and shop around different bookmakers to find the best CFL odds. 

But hold your horses, cowboy! Before you bet, make sure to research thoroughly. Aside from shopping for the best CFL lines and odds, you should also look into the teams’ past performances and other factors that could influence the outcome of the game, such as injuries and weather conditions. This will help you make an informed decision and increase your chances of winning.

Grey Cup Betting vs. Super Bowl Betting

The CFL and the NFL are the two biggest American football leagues in the world, and as such, they share a multitude of similarities. With that being said, they do also have some major differences, even in their respective championship games - the Super Bowl and Grey Cup. Here are some of the biggest differences and similarities between the two: 

Differences: 

  • Big picture: The Super Bowl is an international phenomenon that garners a global audience, while the Grey Cup is primarily a Canadian affair. In other words, the Super Bowl is like a Hollywood blockbuster, while the Grey Cup is more like a critically acclaimed indie movie that only plays in Canada (that doesn’t mean you can’t profit from it though!).
  • Timing: The Grey Cup is often played in less-than-ideal weather conditions in late November, while the Super Bowl takes place in February when the weather is a little bit more predictable.
  • Halftime show: The Super Bowl halftime show is generally quite over-the-top and features A-list celebrities, with millions of dollars poured into it every year. While the Grey Cup halftime show is more modest and showcases local Canadian talent instead. For example, the Super Bowl halftime show has featured world-renowned artists like Jennifer Lopez and Shakira shaking it up, while the Grey Cup has featured iconic Canadian artists like The Tragically Hip and Shania Twain.
  • Rules and gameplay: The CFL and NFL have different rules and styles of play, which leads to unique gameplay in the Grey Cup and Super Bowl. Most notably, the CFL has a larger field and more players on the field, which means more room for big plays and explosive action. The NFL on the other hand has stricter player safety rules, which can often lead to a more strategic game with fewer high-risk plays.

Similarities: 

  • Trophy: Both events award the winning team with a prestigious trophy. The Grey Cup is a beautiful silver chalice, while the Super Bowl trophy is a shiny football on a pedestal.
  • Fan enthusiasm: Fans of both the Grey Cup and Super Bowl are incredibly passionate and love to gather to cheer on their teams. This has led to some of the most passionate fanbases in sports, with both leagues featuring historic franchises that carry generations of fans.
  • Betting: Both events are major betting events each and every year, with millions of dollars changing hands on everything from the coin toss to the final score of the game.
  • Pre-game festivities: Both the Super Bowl and Grey Cup have extensive pre-game festivities, including concerts, fan zones, and tailgate parties, to get fans pumped up and excited for the big game. 

Overall, while the Grey Cup and Super Bowl may have their differences, they are united in the fact that they are both massive events that bring people together to celebrate the game, the players, and the culture surrounding football.

Top CFL Teams and Players

As a league that’s been around for more than 60 years, the CFL has seen plenty of all-world talent walk through its gates. In fact, thanks to its fast-paced games, unique rules, and talented players, the CFL has a reputation for being one of the most exciting and unpredictable football leagues in the world. But if you’re a fan of the CFL (or just curious about the league), you’re probably wondering who the top teams and favourite players are. 

Top Teams

  • Edmonton Elks (formerly Eskimos) - Edmonton has won more Grey Cups than any other franchise in the CFL since the merger in 1958 with a total of 11. They had a dynasty in the late 1970s and early 1980s, winning five championships in a row from 1978 to 1982. They also won back-to-back titles in 1954 and 1955 and again in 2015 and 2016. Edmonton is historically known for its strong defensive play and has produced many CFL legends, including Warren Moon and Jackie Parker.
  • Toronto Argonauts - The Argonauts have the most Grey Cup wins since its introduction in 1909 with a grand total of 18. They have had success throughout their storied history, winning championships in every decade from the 1940s to the 2020s. They won back-to-back championships in 1996 and 1997 and again in 2017 and 2018. The Argonauts have also produced numerous CFL greats, including Pinball Clemons and Damon Allen.
  • Winnipeg Blue Bombers - The Blue Bombers have won 12 Grey Cups, including most recently in 2019 and 2021 and they were even runners-up in 2022. They too had a successful stretch in the 1950 and 1960s, winning four championships in five years from 1958 to 1962. The Blue Bombers are known for their passionate fan base and have had many iconic players, including Bud Grant and Milt Stegall.
  • Calgary Stampeders - The Stampeders rank fourth on the list of Grey Cup wins with eight, tied alongside the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Calgary has been consistently competitive throughout its history, including recent championships in 2014 and 2018, as well as successful stretches in the 1990s. The Stampeders are known to produce a high-powered offence and have been home to several CFL stars, including Doug Flutie and Allen Pitts.

Favourite Players

  • Doug Flutie - Flutie is a former quarterback who played in the CFL from 1990 to 1997. During his time in the league, he won three Grey Cups and was named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player six times. He was known for his strong arm, quick feet, and ability to make plays under pressure. Flutie is widely regarded as one of the best QBs in CFL history.
  • Warren Moon - Moon played for the Edmonton Eskimos from 1978 to 1983 before going on to have a successful career in the NFL. While in the CFL, Moon won five Grey Cups with the Eskimos and was named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Player in 1983. He too is widely regarded as one of the greatest quarterbacks and players in CFL history.
  • Michael “Pinball” Clemons - Clemons is a former player and coach who was known for his dynamic personality and positive attitude. He played for the Toronto Argonauts for 12 seasons and won three Grey Cups. He also served as the Argonauts’ head coach and was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2008.
  • George Reed - Reed, who played for the Saskatchewan Roughriders from 1963 to 1975, is one of the most beloved players in CFL and Canadian sports history. Most notably, he is the Roughriders’ all-time leading rusher and third on the CFL’s all-time rushing list. He was also a seven-time CFL All-Star and won a Grey Cup with the franchise in 1966.

CFL vs. NFL

Now, you might be thinking, “Hey, wait a second! I know what football is, but what’s the difference between the CFL and the NFL?” Great question! While both leagues are focused on football, there are some notable differences between the two. 

For starters, the NFL is a behemoth compared to the CFL. With 32 teams, the NFL has a much larger audience and a higher revenue compared to the CFL’s nine teams. It’s essentially like comparing a grizzly bear to a polar bear - they’re both bears, but one is just a lot bigger. 

Another key difference between the CFL and NFL is the style of play. CFL football tends to be a faster-paced and high-scoring game, thanks to its larger field and fewer downs. The NFL, on the other hand, is a bit more safety-conscious with stricter rules and regulations around player safety, such as concussion protocols and helmet-to-helmet contact penalties. 

Despite their differences, both the CFL and NFL have dedicated fans and nail-biting finishes. Both leagues have also had their fair share of talented players who have become legends in their own right, like Warren Moon and Joe Montana. So, whether you’re cheering on your hometown Ottawa Redblacks or looking to explore the wild world of NFL football, you’re in for an electrifying experience.

FAQs

Can I bet on other Canadian sports besides the CFL?

Yes, many Canadian betting sites offer betting options for a variety of sports, including hockey, basketball, and baseball, to name a few.