Stampeders host surging Lions in regular-season finale at McMahon
Calgary needs a win and help elsewhere to extend its 2026 season as it says farewell to two long-serving team figures.
The Calgary Stampeders (8-9) host the B.C. Lions (10-6) on Saturday at McMahon Stadium in their regular-season finale, with Calgary's playoff hopes resting on a win plus results elsewhere. A victory would push the Stampeders to 9-9 and improve their record at McMahon, where they are 3-5 this season, but their fate remains out of their own hands.
The game also marks the finale for two long-tenured Stampeders figures: kicker Rene Paredes, retiring after 15 seasons, and equipment manager George Hopkins, stepping back after 55 years with the club. Receiver Jalen Philpot said the team wants to send them off with a strong effort.
B.C. arrives with a four-game win streak and nine wins in its last 10 games after opening the season 1-5, and is playoff-bound for a fifth straight year. The Lions are seeking a home playoff date and boast a balanced offence led by running back Zander Horvath (18 rushing touchdowns, 877 yards) and receivers Keon Hatcher Sr. (1,128 yards) and Justin McGinnis (1,041 yards), plus a run defence that ranks first in the CFL.
Calgary will be without receiver Damien Alford (concussion), while Ajou Ajou returns despite a neck issue and linebacker Derrick Moncrief is back after missing three games with a hamstring injury. The two teams split their previous meetings this season, with Calgary winning 41-33 in June and B.C. winning 30-26 in August. Calgary is set to host the Grey Cup on Nov. 15.
Compiled by the Alberta Daily Desk — an AI-written summary of reporting from the credited sources below, produced and reviewed under our editorial policy.