David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports

CFL best bets: Affection for an unlikely connection

By John Dudley | Last updated Jul 28, 2023 10:50 AM ET

Having already started four different quarterbacks over their first six games, the Ottawa Redblacks could almost be forgiven for going through the motions. But former Kent State signal-caller Dustin Crum has been a revelation, winning both of his first two starts in overtime to even the team’s record at 3-3. As Ottawa plays host to the 2-4 Hamilton Tiger-Cats on Friday night, Crum’s emerging favorite target is the subject of our top prop:

The bet: Over 44½ receiving yards for Ottawa Redblacks wide receiver Nate Behar (FanDuel)

Since returning to the city where he played collegiately for Carleton University, Behar has progressively made a bigger impact. He averaged 56 receiving yards per game last year — his third with the Redblacks — and that number figures to climb this season based on the rapport he has developed with his new quarterback.

In each of the previous two games, Behar has seen double-digit targets and turned them into more than 80 yards. He has accumulated 18 receptions over that span and 29 on the season, which puts him just three catches behind the league leader. Crum has also shown a tendency to look Behar’s way in crucial situations, connecting with him three times on two-point conversions.

Meanwhile, the Ti-Cats surrender a generous 292 passing yards per game, and they’ve allowed seven different opposing receivers to clear this number in the last two weeks. With the chemistry continuing, Behar should add his name to the list.

John Dudley

A longtime writer and sports bettor, John Dudley has been dubbed the “King of Props” for his proficiency with proposition wagers. Research is the key that routinely unlocks success, and his selections are always backed by sound reasoning. John can be followed on Twitter @JohnDudley85

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