CFL Playoffs: Semi-Finals Recap & Finals Preview

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The 2025 CFL Playoffs are in full swing, and last weekend proved why fans love three-down football. The semi-finals brought fireworks, heartbreak, and just enough chaos to remind us that no lead is ever safe in the CFL. So before we start making Finals picks, let’s break down what just happened — and what’s coming next.

🧨 East Semi-Final: Montreal Alouettes 42 – Winnipeg Blue Bombers 33

This one had Grey Cup energy from kickoff. Winnipeg, crossing over from the West, came to play — but Montreal wasn’t having it. The Als’ offense was relentless, answering nearly every Winnipeg surge with a quick strike of their own.

In the end, Montreal’s playmakers did what they do best: turned opportunities into touchdowns. Winnipeg’s late push kept it interesting, but the Alouettes held firm, earning their ticket to the Eastern Final.

Key takeaway: You can’t spot Montreal field position and expect to live through it.

🦁 West Semi-Final: BC Lions 33 – Calgary Stampeders 30

So even though Calgary jumped onto my radar early in the season, neither one of these teams really excited me. But was this game boring? Not even close.

This defensive slugfest saw the Lions grind it out against a Calgary team that was just a little bit outplayed. BC’s front seven brought the heat, forcing the Stamps to play catch-up all night — and the Stamps never quite caught up.

Key takeaway: BC looks playoff-ready. Maybe next year Stamps

🔜 Eastern Final: Montreal Alouettes @ Hamilton Tiger-Cats

📅 Saturday, Nov. 8 – 3:00 PM ET

Hamilton had the luxury of rest, but Montreal has the momentum. The Ti-Cats’ defense will have its hands full with Montreal’s air attack, and this could turn into a track meet if Hamilton’s offense finds its rhythm.

It’s experience versus energy — and no matter which side you’re on, you’re going to get a show.

🌾 Western Final: BC Lions @ Saskatchewan Roughriders

📅 Saturday, Nov. 8 – 6:30 PM ET

Saskatchewan’s sitting at home waiting for Lions to show up. The Roughriders have been consistent all year, but the Lions’ confidence after that defensive performance could shake things up.

Expect loud crowds, harder hits, and the kind of playoff football that makes you forget what temperature it is outside.

🏆 Grey Cup 2025

📅 Sunday, Nov. 16 – 6:00 PM ET
📍 Location: Winnipeg, MB

We’re still one step away, but you can feel it — the road to the Grey Cup just got real. Who’s it going to be hoisting the trophy this year? Montreal’s explosive offense? Hamilton’s home-field grit? Saskatchewan’s steady hand? Or will BC’s surge keep rolling all the way to the big stage?

Grab your printable Grey Cup bracket below and lock in your picks.

CFL 2025 Grey Cup Semi Finals Series Matchup

More CFL Playoffs 2025 Coverage: Semi-Final Previews, Picks & Analysis

“Everything you need to know ahead of Division Semi-Finals” — Canadian Football League (CFL.ca) CFL

“Get the full breakdown of the Eastern and Western semi-final match-ups, key players, and storylines for the 2025 playoffs.”

“CFL East Semifinal preview: What you need to know about Blue Bombers vs. Alouettes” — Sportsnet Sportsnet.ca

“A deep dive on how the crossover team (Winnipeg) stacks up against Montreal — history, stats, and playoff pressure.”

“CFL picks straight-up & against the spread: East & West Semi-Finals” — 3DownNation 3DownNation

“Analyst predictions and betting insights for the semi-final matchups — useful for understanding which teams are catching fire.”

Spread the Game Day Vibes 🏈🏒⚾🏀

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