CFL releases 2024 regular-season schedule with Grey Cup rematch as opener

The CFL will kick off its 2024 schedule with a Grey Cup rematch.

The Grey Cup-champion Montreal Alouettes will open the campaign visiting the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on June 6, the CFL announced Thursday. The Als defeated the Bombers 28-24 in this year's final at Tim Hortons Field.

Scott Milanovich makes his debut at Tiger-Cats head coach the following night as Hamilton faces the Calgary Stampeders at McMahon Stadium. The could also feature the return of veteran quarterback Bo Levi Mitchell to the Alberta city.

Mitchell began his CFL career with Calgary in 2012, led the franchise to two Grey Cup titles as its starter (2014, 2018) and twice was named the league's outstanding player (2016, 2018). After the '22 season, the Stampeders dealt Mitchell's rights to Hamilton, which signed the veteran quarterback to a three-year, $1.62-million deal.

He struggled with injuries and played in just six games in his first season in Hamilton, and his future there is in question as the Ticats can opt out if his contract before he is reportedly due a significant six-figure roster bonus sometime in January.

WATCH | Alouettes stun Bombers to win Grey Cup:

The opening week of the '24 season will feature Saskatchewan facing the Edmonton Elks at Commonwealth Stadium on June 8 in Corey Mace's first game as Roughriders head coach. The Toronto Argonauts will entertain the B.C. Lions at BMO Field on June 9.

The Ottawa Redblacks, after an opening-week bye, will host Winnipeg on June 13.

On Aug. 31, B.C. will host Ottawa in Victoria in the Touchdown Pacific contest before the traditional Labour Day clashes between Saskatchewan and Winnipeg (on Sept. 1) as well as Hamilton-Toronto and Calgary-Edmonton (both Sept. 2).

The annual Hall of Fame game