Brady Oliveira is back in the lineup for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers just in time for their matchup against the Calgary Stampeders. The standout running back, who earned CFL’s Most Outstanding Player and Top Canadian honours last season, will start Thursday after missing two games with a shoulder injury.
Oliveira went down early in Winnipeg’s season-opening win over B.C., after rushing for 49 yards on just two carries. In his absence, rookie Matthew Peterson stepped up, posting 130 yards and a touchdown in a solid showing.
The Bombers haven’t slowed since. Their defence forced four turnovers in a 27-14 win over B.C., and last week, quarterback Zach Collaros threw for 334 yards and three touchdowns in a 36-23 victory over Edmonton. Nic Demski, who was questionable with an ankle issue, hauled in five receptions for 97 yards and two touchdowns in that game.
Meanwhile, the Calgary Stampeders return from a bye looking to bounce back after a 20-12 loss to Ottawa in tough weather conditions. The Redblacks rushed for 239 yards, and Calgary’s offence struggled, despite leading the CFL in net yardage.
Quarterback Vernon Adams Jr. has yet to throw a touchdown pass this season. He finished 17-of-32 for 218 yards against Ottawa but committed two turnovers in the fourth quarter. Running back Dedrick Mills led the way with 96 rushing yards.
Pick: Winnipeg
Other Week 4 matchups:
Hamilton at Toronto (Friday)
Bo Levi Mitchell led Hamilton past Montreal with two touchdowns and 247 yards. Toronto’s Nick Arbuckle will make his fifth straight start after helping the Argos to a 29-16 win over Ottawa.
Pick: Hamilton
B.C. at Montreal (Saturday)
Montreal may again rely on veteran McLeod Bethel-Thompson, with several key players still limited in practice. B.C. could get a boost if Nathan Rourke returns.
Pick: Montreal
Ottawa at Edmonton (Sunday)
Still winless, the Elks will look to capitalize on home field. Ottawa’s starting quarterback remains uncertain, with Dru Brown questionable due to injury.
Pick: Edmonton
Last week: 2-2 | Overall: 10-6
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Brady Oliveira rushes during a preseason game with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers against the Saskatchewan Roughriders, May 24, 2025.
