2016 marked a drastic turnaround for the British Columbia Lions. After finishing 7-11 in 2015, the BC Lions were able to buckle down, put the pedal to the metal, and finished the 2016 season with a 12-6 record. Not only that, the franchise managed to qualify for the postseason for the 20th consecutive year, making them the holders of second longest streak in the Canadian Football League. Heading into the playoffs, this team’s hopes were higher than ever and a win against the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Division Semi-Finals sent CFL betting fans who favor the Lions hopes through the air.
Destined for Greatness
With that win, the best sportsbooks began to feel that BC was destined for greatness. After all, they were one game away from competing for the 104th Grey Cup. But that sentiment was quickly snuffed when the Lions fell short against the Calvary Stampeders 42-15. The defiant defeat marked a heartbreaking loss for Lions fans, but in the end the team can be extremely proud of a successful season.
BC Lions History
The BC Lions are the proud holders of the oldest professional sports franchise in city of Vancouver, which lies in the historic province of British Columbia. With that heritage and longstanding history, the Lions are expected to live up to a certain standard. With all things considered, the Lions have been doing an outstanding job of doing so. Although they failed to win the Grey Cup this year, they came dangerously close to winning the hallowed title, which was a vast turnaround from the first round finish they acquired in 2015.
Impending Success
At the start of the season the football betting odds weren’t convinced of the Lions impending success, but under Wally Buono’s 9th year as head coach, the club was able to make its way to the playoffs for the 20th consecutive year. Buono has been serving as BC’s general manager for 14 years, which is quite surprising to see someone serve as both coach and general manager throughout his tenure (at least from the point of view of an NFL fan). But in the end, one can’t argue with such a defiant postseason finish, especially one that defies the football betting odds. But now that the Lions have been eliminated from the playoffs, fans are left wondering; what’s next for BC?
Jonathon Jennings
Considering that Jonathon Jennings, the Lions’ quarterback, was third in the league for passing yards, it’s safe to say that BC doesn’t need to address their passing game. However, they were outscored by 27 points in their final game of the season, so it’s clear that something needs to be addressed. Whether they choose to make changes to the secondary or boost up their skill positions is unknown but one thing is for certain; the football betting odds will have to start taking BC seriously next year.