CBC's Doug Dirks on countdown to the Cup

Another busy Grey Cup Friday in Toronto.

Early morning radio hits with the CEO's David Gray from the CBC broadcast centre, and Nathan Phillips Square. Managed to squeeze in CFL commissioner Mark Cohon's state of the league news conference at the Royal York Hotel.

He says TV ratings have increased 100 per cent since he took over the helm five years ago. The exclusive contract with TSN expires at the end of 2013 season and Cohon says they will explore all options, which means the CFL could be returning to CBC in some form in 2013.

The league would consider adding a 10th franchise when Ottawa returns, he says. Moncton, Halifax and Quebec City all viable candidates, but they all have "stadium challenges."

The Hamilton Ticats have an issue of their own next season while they wait for new Pan-Am games venue to replace Ivor Wynne. They'll play some games at the University of Guelph, one or two in Moncton, and their Labour Day Classic against the Argos may be played at Rogers Centre.

Stampede breakfasts

It’s also another busy day for the Calgary Grey Cup committee.

Now that "horsey gate" is over, they can concentrate on feeding hungry fans. They're expecting hundreds to show up today and tomorrow at Nathan Phillips Square for their traditional Stampede breakfasts.

Members of the committee, Stampede royalty and their band entertained kids today at Toronto's inner-city school St Michael's.

It’s an annual tradition and they try to pick a school in each community that has a diverse population.

The Stampeders hit the practice field this afternoon at the Rogers Centre for their final full length work out before the big game Sunday.

It'll give me a chance to ask the CFL's Most Outstanding Player Jon Cornish if he really did manage to postpone his victory celebration until after he's done playing in the 100th Grey Cup.

Be sure to tune in to the Homestretch on CBC Radio One this afternoon at 3:15, 4:15 and 5:15 MT. You can also see me on the CBC Calgary News at 5:05, 5:35, 6:05 and 11:05. I'll try to squeeze in a little "research" at Stamps House in between my TV appearances this evening.