The 2025 CFL Eastern Final between the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and Montreal Alouettes is set to be an electrifying showdown with a trip to the Grey Cup on the line.
The Tiger-Cats finished first in the East with an 11-7 record, narrowly edging Montreal by two points. Hamilton’s home-field advantage at Tim Hortons Field, combined with a 12-0 playoff home record against Montreal teams, gives them a historical edge. Led by Most Outstanding Player finalist QB Bo Levi Mitchell and breakout running back Greg Bell, the Tiger-Cats boast one of the most dangerous offences in the league.
Montreal, however, brings momentum from a dominant 42-33 win over the crossover Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the East Semi-Final. Quarterback Davis Alexander, who missed earlier games against Hamilton due to injury, has been a game-changer since his return, leading the Alouettes to six wins in seven outings. The Als’ balanced attack features strong rushing from Stevie Scott III and a well-coordinated defence masterminded by defensive coordinator Noel Thorpe.
Eastern Final best bet
Tiger-Cats +3 spread
It’s a little surprising that the Tiger-Cats are now three-point home underdogs in this clash given that they took both of the previous meetings with Montreal during the regular season and have had an extra week to rest and prepare for this matchup by virtue of winning the East Division title. Yes, the Alouettes dealt with significant injuries all season long and have some serious momentum coming into the Eastern Final, but this should be a very close game that comes down to the wire. Take the field goal spread and back the home team in what should be an absolute nail-biter that could come down to a late field goal either way to win it.
Alouettes vs. Tiger-Cats odds
| Team | Moneyline | Spread | Total |
| Alouettes | -160 | Als -3 (-105) | o52.5 (-110), u52.5 (-110) |
| Tiger-Cats | +135 | Ticats +3 (-115) | o52.5 (-110), u52.5 (-110) |
Game context
Head-to-head this season, Hamilton won both matchups convincingly, with the Als missing Alexander in both contests. The Alouettes, confident with their fully healthy roster, consider themselves a different team now and pose a significant threat. Defensive stalwarts like Najee Murray and Darnell Sankey are expected to challenge Hamilton’s offensive rhythm, making this contest a true test of resilience and strategy.
Special teams and crowd energy will also play vital roles in this high-stakes battle. The Eastern Final crowd is notoriously passionate, and Tiger-Cats fans are expected to create a hostile environment for the visitors. Montreal must overcome this to capitalize on their recent form while Hamilton needs to avoid complacency given historical playoff context.
The Alouettes’ strong finish and playoff pedigree suggest this game could be tighter than the line indicates. Sharp bettors should watch injury reports closely, monitor weather conditions, and consider key player matchups when evaluating spreads and prop bets.
In summary, the 2025 Eastern Final promises a clash of top-tier offence and stifling defence, veteran leadership, and playoff intensity. Whether backing the Tiger-Cats’ home dominance or Montreal’s potent resurgence, this is an unmissable contest for CFL fans and bettors alike.