CFL best bets: Lawler continues to be a baller

After a much-needed bye week following their second shutout loss of the season, the 0-8 Edmonton Elks play a Thursday night game for the fourth time in just over a month. But their chances of enjoying a first victory are severely hampered by having to face the 6-2 Winnipeg Blue Bombers, who have risen to the top of most power rankings. The disparity between these teams proved profitable for us three weeks ago, and we’re again backing a player on the favored side for our top prop:

The bet: Over 75½ receiving yards for Winnipeg Blue Bombers wide receiver Kenny Lawler (FanDuel)

Because of immigration issues stemming from an impaired-driving conviction, Lawler couldn’t participate in any of his team’s first six games this season. But he is determined to atone for his mistake — as evidenced by his ambitious goal of reaching 2,000 yards — and he has quickly reestablished himself as the top target of reigning two-time Most Outstanding Player Zach Collaros.

Lawler was pleased to rejoin the Bombers after spending last season in Edmonton, and he promptly torched the Elks for 93 receiving yards in his season debut. Then he went nuclear against the former league-leading pass defense of the BC Lions, delivering a 200-yard performance in last week’s 50-14 demolition. What’s more, he would have flirted with 300 if a long reception hadn’t been negated by a dubious penalty for offensive pass interference.

With Collaros as his quarterback in 2021, Lawler paced all CFL receivers by averaging 78 yards per game. Although his current mark of 147 yards isn’t sustainable, the prolific connection should keep clicking against an Elks defense that allows the highest passing efficiency in the league.