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British Columbian Lions

As with several of the teams over in the East Division, this season may be one of transition and adjustment for the Lions, a side which has seen radical movement during the off-season. The Lions may well struggle to adapt successfully in the absence of Cameron Wake, who was the top defensive player in the CFL last season, and Rob Murphy, to name just two key players now plying their trade elsewhere.

The Lions' fans must hope that the talented crop of individuals left can find consistently good form, after underperforming somewhat last season. If the Lions want to start challenging for top position once more, they'll need versatile Paris Jackson, a former first-round draft pick, to fulfil his potential after an encouraging season last year.

With the weight of expectation finally relieved, at least partially, from the shoulders of the Lions, they may yet prove their critics wrong. However, all signs point to this being a season of transition rather than a season of triumph.

The Lions are currently available to back at [4.7] in the CFL 2009 Winner's Market.

Calgary Stampeders

Calgary's strength in depth simply cannot be overlooked at this stage and the stability which has dominated their off-season will stand them in good stead for success this year. Both the coaching staff and the key players fundamental to last season's Grey Cup victory have remained at the club and, despite several injuries which have caused head coach John Hufnagl some concern, the replacements ready to be brought in are more than capable.

It's been a while since a side has won back to back titles but Calgary are confident that they can become the first team to do so since Toronto back in 1997. Picking one player to keep a close eye on this season is difficult in a team as talented as this one; however, Ken-Yon Rambo and Nik Lewis should provide enough entertainment to be getting on with as the season gets underway.

The Stampeders are current favorites in the CFL 2009 Winner's Market and for good reason. They are available to back at odds of [3.5] and this could represent a really good pick for CFL bettors.

Edmonton Eskimos

The Eskimos, like the Lions, will need time to settle down after major alterations to their defence. A change in personnel may not be a bad thing, particularly after certain performances last season, but Eskimos' fans shouldn't expect familiarity between the new players, a talented bunch including Kitwana Jones, to culminate in success on the field too quickly.

This said, the influence of new head coach Richie Hall, who has brought with him significant experience with the Saskatchewan Roughriders defence, should not be underestimated.

The Eskimos are available to back in the CFL Winner's Market at odds of [4.6].

Saskatchewan Roughriders

The Edmonton Eskimos' gain in the form of new arrival Richie Hall, will almost certainly be Saskatchewan Roughriders' loss and the extent to which his departure will affect the Riders' defence could prove to be extremely detrimental to their chances this season.

All eyes are set to focus upon the performances of Darian Durant and head coach Ken Miller hasn't been afraid of voicing his desire for the young quarter-back to become a more prominent vocal leader during games.

Jason Clermont should also make an impact upon this team. Overall, it's relatively difficult to assess the chances of the Riders but a clearer picture should emerge after their first couple of games this season.

This uncertainty is reflected in the team's odds in the CFL 2009 Winner's Market, with Saskatchewan currently available to back at [10.0].