How Many Cfl Teams Are There A Detailed Guide To Canadian Football League Teams

Ed Bradley

2 min read

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27-03-2025

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The Canadian Football League (CFL) boasts a unique and exciting brand of football, captivating fans across the country. But how many teams make up this thrilling league? The answer is nine. This guide provides a detailed overview of each team, their history, and their current status.

The Nine Teams of the CFL

The CFL is divided geographically into two divisions: the East and the West. This division structure impacts playoff seeding and matchups.

East Division:

• Montreal Alouettes: A storied franchise with a rich history, the Alouettes have won seven Grey Cups. Their dedicated fanbase and passionate play make them a consistently exciting team to watch.

• Ottawa Redblacks: Established in 2014, the Redblacks represent the nation's capital. Despite their relative youth, they’ve quickly become a competitive force in the East Division, showcasing exciting and evolving gameplay.

• Toronto Argonauts: One of the league's oldest and most successful teams, the Argonauts boast a remarkable 17 Grey Cup championships. Their long history and strong fan base make them a cornerstone of the CFL.

• Hamilton Tiger-Cats: Founded in 1869, the Tiger-Cats hold the distinction of being one of the oldest professional football teams in North America. Their long-standing rivalry with the Toronto Argonauts adds extra spice to their games.

West Division:

• BC Lions: Representing British Columbia, the Lions have eight Grey Cup victories under their belt and consistently provide thrilling games for their devoted fans.

• Calgary Stampeders: Based in Calgary, Alberta, the Stampeders are known for their strong defense and passionate following. Their consistent success in the West makes them a formidable opponent.

• Edmonton Elks: The Elks, formerly known as the Eskimos, have a storied past with 14 Grey Cup titles. Their rich history and dedicated fans ensure their place as a significant part of the CFL landscape. Their recent name change reflects a commitment to inclusivity.

• Saskatchewan Roughriders: Arguably possessing the most passionate fanbase in the CFL, the Roughriders' games are legendary for their electric atmosphere. Their strong connection with the community makes them a prominent force in Canadian football.

• Winnipeg Blue Bombers: The Blue Bombers, hailing from Winnipeg, Manitoba, have claimed a respectable 11 Grey Cups. Their consistent playoff appearances underscore their competitive nature and ability to deliver exciting football.

Understanding the CFL's Unique Structure

The CFL differs from the NFL in several key aspects, including the field dimensions, the number of players on the field, and the rules of the game. These differences contribute to the fast-paced, high-scoring nature of CFL games, creating a unique and exciting viewing experience.

Conclusion

The Canadian Football League's nine teams represent a diverse tapestry of history, tradition, and passionate fan bases. Each franchise contributes to the league's captivating atmosphere, ensuring a consistently thrilling season for fans across Canada and beyond. Their distinct identities and rivalries make the CFL a truly unique and compelling sporting league.