The 2025 CFL Playoffs delivered thrilling performances, led by the dynamic Philpot twins, Tyson and Jalen, whose talent and chemistry lit up the field. Fans can only hope to one day see them face off in a Grey Cup showdown.
In the Western Semi-Final, the BC Lions edged out the Calgary Stampeders 33-30 in a hard-fought contest. Quarterback Nathan Rourke credited special teams for the victory, calling it their best performance of the year. A 95-yard kick return touchdown by Robert Carter Jr. and a crucial late-game fumble recovery by Kieran Poissant, forced by Adam Auclair, proved decisive. While Rourke admitted it wasn’t the offence’s best outing, he expressed pride in how the team found new strength in adversity, saying, “We’re more well-rounded than even we thought.”
Meanwhile, in the Eastern Semi-Final, Montreal Alouettes quarterback Davis Alexander silenced any doubts about his ability to perform under playoff pressure. The young pivot threw for 384 yards and a touchdown while adding another on the ground in a 42-33 win over the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Despite a shaky moment that saw the Bombers erase a 19-point deficit, Alexander showed composure and leadership, guiding his team back to victory. Head coach Jason Maas praised his quarterback’s competitiveness, saying, “There’s a belief in him that’s unnatural. He believes he can make something happen—and he does.” Alexander’s own words summed up his mindset: “In the most humble way possible, I feel like I’m built for this league.”
For Calgary, quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. was left wishing he could turn back time. Just before halftime, he extended a play too long instead of securing a field goal, costing his team valuable points in the narrow loss. “That’s on me,” he admitted, taking responsibility for the decision. Head coach Dave Dickenson acknowledged the mistake but defended his quarterback’s overall effort, saying, “Vernon had a hell of a game. I don’t want to pile on any one decision.”
Back in Montreal, running back Stevie Scott III has officially arrived as a force to be reckoned with. After dealing with a minor knee issue during practice, Scott powered through with 133 rushing yards, two touchdowns, and several big runs that kept the Alouettes’ offence alive. He also added 29 receiving yards, showing off his versatility and resilience. “He’s turned into a monster,” said Alexander, impressed by his teammate’s growth and confidence.
Perhaps Scott’s most memorable play came late in the fourth quarter—a seven-yard touchdown that looked more like a rugby scrum than a football run. Pushed back by a Winnipeg defender at the three-yard line, Scott was soon surrounded by his offensive line, who collectively muscled the pile across the goal line. The play embodied teamwork, grit, and determination, proving that sometimes it truly takes a village to score a touchdown.
As the playoff picture sharpens, the storylines are rich with redemption, resilience, and rising stars. From Davis Alexander’s breakout performance to BC’s all-around team strength and Stevie Scott III’s unstoppable energy, the road to the Grey Cup promises more unforgettable moments.
