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They took a roundabout route through hills and valleys but the Winnipeg Blue Bombers ended up more or less where they expected to be.

The Bombers are in the playoffs just six weeks after falling to last place in the CFL’s West Division and are looking very much like the Grey Cup contenders they were pegged to be a the beginning of the season.

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You could say they’ve taken a bit of a step back, given that they hosted a playoff game last season and will have to go on the road this year, but right now it’s clear the Bombers are playing their best football.

They extended their winning streak to five games on Friday night, beating the Calgary Stampeders for the first time in nine years in Winnipeg and ensured themselves a spot in the playoffs with a complete performance.

Photo by John Woods / THE CANADIAN PRESS

“We’ve been saying all year that we feel like we have the talent-level here and the leadership and the coaching to beat anyone,” Bombers quarterback Matt Nichols said. “As long as we come out and play the way we’re capable of, we are in good shape. Sometimes, it’s easier said than done. We’ve got to continue to do this week in and week out and we’ve got to do it at least three more times.”