CFL Power Rankings: Where every team stands after Labour Day

1. Toronto Argonauts (9-1)

Previous rank: 1

The Boatmen handled the Tiger-Cats on Monday with relative ease, the latest piece of evidence that Toronto appears to have the inside track as it challenges for back-to-back Grey Cups. The Argos continue to stockpile wins with big contributions in all three phases. Quarterback Chad Kelly is among the leaders in the MOP race, Robertson Daniel has been a playmaking ball hawk on defense, and Javon Leake is in the midst of an all-time season as a punt returner.

2. Winnipeg Blue Bombers (9-3)

Previous rank: 3

Winnipeg (31.2) and Toronto (34.1) are the only teams averaging more than 30 points per game this season, and that prolific scoring is what keeps Winnipeg near the top of our rankings. Zach Collaros has been a top-three passer, but Brady Oliveira has been the Blue Bombers' engine. He entered Week 13 with an outstanding 902 rushing yards - next on the rushing leaderboard was Hamilton's James Butler with 629. Defensively, Demerio Houston entered Labour Day weekend with an astounding seven interceptions.

3. Saskatchewan Roughriders (6-5)

Previous rank: 5

The return of receiver Kian Schaffer-Baker has done wonders for the Roughriders' confidence. Knocking off the Blue Bombers over Labour Day weekend is the highlight of this squad's year so far, and this team could make some noise in the playoffs if it can capture that momentum. The Roughriders will need that momentum with road trips to Winnipeg and Vancouver, and a home contest against the Argos, still on the schedule.

4. BC Lions (8-4)

Previous rank: 2

"All or nothing" has been a theme for this team in 2023. The Lions endured back-to-back losses, including a 30-13 drubbing from Hamilton in Week 12, before getting back in the win column against the Alouettes this week. When the Lions are on their game, they're borderline unstoppable, in large part thanks to a defense allowing a league-best 20.2 points per game. But when things are off, this looks like a team destined to disappoint in the playoffs. Quarterback Vernon Adams Jr.'s health and consistency will determine the Lions' fate.

5. Montreal Alouettes (6-5)

Previous rank: 4

Consecutive losses hurt heading into back-to-back games against the Argos, but sitting above .500 with a positive point differential is still a good spot to be in after Labour Day. Austin Mack has been an explosive playmaker for Montreal, ranking inside the top five of most receiving metrics, and should remain in the conversation for the receiving-yard crown through the end of the year. After the contests with Toronto, the Alouettes have a matchup with the Stamps, two dates with the Redblacks, and a meeting with the Elks before closing the season against the Ticats, setting the team up well for a late push.

6. Calgary Stampeders (4-8)

Previous rank: 6

Calgary is the first team in these rankings with a losing record, and the Stampeders will face an uphill battle trying to change that. Matchups against the Lions and Bombers to close the season will likely cement this as a down year for the club, but quarterback Jake Maier and receiver Reggie Begelton won't go down without a fight; they showcased that resolve in their comeback win over Edmonton on Monday. The two are among the CFL's best when it comes to yardage, targets, and completions. Micah Awe's strong season shouldn't be ignored either.

7. Edmonton Elks (2-10)

Previous rank: 9

Edmonton has found late life with Canadian pivot Tre Ford taking the snaps. A push for a playoff spot is unlikely, but playing for the future and building hope are very much on the table, even after Monday's loss. Closing out the season will be tough with contests against the Lions, Argos, and Blue Bombers making up three of the Elks' final four games. A.C. Leonard's chase for the league lead in sacks is the most interesting storyline left in the Elks' season.

8. Ottawa Redblacks (3-8)

Previous rank: 7

Ottawa has dealt with a myriad of issues this season. From multiple quarterbacks going down with injury to five losses in one-score games, nothing has gone quite to plan for the Redblacks. Dustin Crum and Justin Hardy are doing their best to keep a below-average roster afloat, but it might be time to look ahead to the 2024 season with an 0-5 record in games against East Division opponents.

9. Hamilton Tiger-Cats (4-7)

Previous rank: 8

The Tabbies have struggled to consistently put points on the board and their record reflects that. Hamilton still has matchups against the Lions, Argonauts, and Bombers on the docket, which could put this team in contention to finish with the worst record in the league. James Butler has been one of the few bright spots during this campaign, having entered Week 13 as the second-leading rusher in the CFL.