For the first time in weeks — or even months — Chris Streveler finds himself back under center in a meaningful game.
After fully recovering from a knee ligament injury, Streveler will take the reins for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers this Thursday against the BC Lions at Mosaic Stadium in Regina.
He steps into the starting role with Zach Collaros suspended for failing to respond to an offseason drug test request — a surprising twist heading into the Bombers’ season opener.
“I appreciate these opportunities more than ever,” Streveler said recently. “Getting to start games, getting to play football — I just love it that much more.”
It’s not how he imagined his 2025 season kicking off, but for Streveler, it’s a chance to prove he belongs.
Blue Bombers Look to Rebound After Grey Cup Heartbreak
Winnipeg enters the new season with plenty of pressure to repeat as West Division champions after going 11-7 in 2024.
They also have something to prove after falling to the Toronto Argonauts in last year’s Grey Cup — a loss still fresh in the minds of players and fans alike.
Though Collaros threw four interceptions in that game, star running back Brady Oliveira was unstoppable, scoring a touchdown and finishing the season with league-high totals in rushing yards (1,353) and total scrimmage yards (1,829). He did it all while earning both Most Outstanding Player and Most Outstanding Canadian honors.
Now, without their veteran quarterback, the Bombers will lean heavily on Oliveira to set the tone — especially if Streveler struggles to find rhythm early.
BC Lions Come Out Swinging
The Lions started the season strong with a convincing 31-14 win over the Edmonton Elks last Saturday.
Nathan Rourke looked sharp, completing 27 of 36 passes for 324 yards and three touchdowns , while also rushing for 54 yards . His chemistry with wide receiver Justin McInnis — who led the CFL in receiving yards last season — was on full display, as McInnis hauled in five catches and a score.
Rourke wasn’t shy about acknowledging the challenge ahead, especially facing a rival team twice in a short span.
“I’ve always admired how Winnipeg approaches the season — they focus on growth over time,” Rourke said. “That’s something I want to adopt this year — learning every week and peaking later.”
What to Watch For in Thursday’s Game
This isn’t just a regular-season opener for the Blue Bombers — it’s a statement game.
With Collaros sidelined and key offensive pieces like Kenny Lawler gone via free agency, questions remain about how well the offense will gel under Streveler.
Meanwhile, the Lions’ defense looks stacked, led by standout edge rushers Matthieu Betts and Kemoko Turay , who dominated Edmonton’s offensive line in Week 1.
If BC can pressure Streveler early and force him into uncomfortable decisions, the Bombers could find themselves playing catch-up all night.
Betting Insights: Game Odds & Picks
- Spread: BC Lions -2.5 (-115)
- Moneyline: BC -138 | Winnipeg +100
- Over/Under: 48.5
With a mobile QB coming off injury and stepping into a high-pressure situation, Streveler’s debut may be rocky . The Lions are coming off a confident win and have shown they can move the ball effectively.
Our pick: BC Lions cover the spread , and we lean toward the under unless Streveler surprises with quick adjustments.
A Defining Night for Streveler
Thursday’s matchup is more than just a season opener — it’s a defining moment for Chris Streveler.
Whether he can silence doubters and lead the Bombers to victory remains to be seen. But one thing’s for sure: all eyes will be on him.
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