1st and Now
Step inside the office of a professional football team and get an inside look at what goes on behind the scenes. Players, coaches & other special guests will join Matt Baker & Nik Kowalski in studio for a unique look at BC Lions football and other stories in the world of sports.
Episodes
Lions Return to BC Place! Previewing Toronto Matchup, Chase Brice at QB + Mike Hogan Interview
Matt, Moj & Nik recap a tough result in Edmonton and the Lions’ quest for a bounce-back against the Toronto Argonauts, as Chase Brice leads the offence into battle. The fellas speak with Argonauts play-by-play man Mike Hogan for a look at what the Boatmen have gone through so far this season. We wrap things up with a Brice-inspired version of trivia. Plus, we get you primed for a Pool Party on Sat
Previewing the Rematch with Edmonton + Morley Scott Interview
The Lions are back from a bye and their Kelowna adventure and now will get amped up for a huge nine-week stretch of games. It continues this week with a rematch in Edmonton. Matt, Moj & Nik talk about the keys to sweeping the Elks and bring on longtime Edmonton play-by-play man Morley Scott for a view from the other side. The boys also take part in another one of Kowalski’s famous trivia games, wh
Touchdown Kelowna Takeover + Colton Meikle Interview
We've taken over Kelowna, as Matt and Nik bring you this week’s episode from the lounge at Okanagan College. We recap a tough BC Lions loss to the Calgary Stampeders and bring you all of the latest news from practice ahead of a big test against the undefeated Edmonton Elks. Colton Meikle joins the guys in-studio to talk about his new chapter with the Okanagan Sun and much more! We wrap it up with
Gearing Up For Touchdown Kelowna + Mark Stephen Interview
Matt, Nik and MOJ bring you another edition of the podcast ahead of Saturday’s big battle with the Calgary Stampeders. The longtime voice of the Stamps, Mark Stephen, pays a visit to give a perspective from the other side after Calgary dropped a couple of close games to start their season. We get you primed for a big week in Kelowna, including some of the exciting festival details to look forward
Previewing Week 3 at Hamilton with Matt Bucknor
1st and Now is back with another jam-packed edition featuring Matt, Moj and Nik. The fellas recap a tough loss at Saskatchewan and start to look forward to another big battle brewing in Hamilton on Friday night. Matt Bucknor, a former BC Lion DB and current analyst on the Ticats Audio Network stops by for a Steeltown perspective on this matchup. We end it off with another segment of Kowalski’s fam
The Moj is Back + Week 2 Preview & Glen Suitor Interview
It’s our premiere 2026 regular season episode of 1st and Now! Bob “the Moj” Marjanovich joins Matt and Nik for another season of weekly shows. The fellas preview Saturday’s big opener in Saskatchewan with TSN’s Glen Suitor. We also recap what was a very exciting and productive bye week with the addition of our Pacific Frost road uniforms, a spiffy locker room upgrade and our Arrow Up training camp
Training Camp Week 3 With Neil McEvoy
In our latest Kamloops edition of 1st and Now, Matt & Nik are giving you all the latest Lion storylines! Neil McEvoy has been coming to training camp since 1998 and seen many different parts of the province. The club’s VP of Football Ops. gives his thoughts on the 2026 version and what has stood out from a management perspective. The boys also look ahead to Friday’s pre-season finale in Winnipeg a
Live From Kamloops with MOJ & Giulio | May 22
For the final time in 2026 Training Camp, Moj & Giulio bring you all of the latest with the Lions and a look ahead to Saturday's pre-season game in Langford. Hear from wide receiver Keon Hatcher Sr. and linebackers coach Mark Washington.
Live From Kamloops with Moj & Giulio | May 21
A star-studded Thursday show from Kamloops features Nathan Rourke, Michael Couture and newly-signed defensive lineman Casey Sayles as the squad continues with the Training Camp grind.
Live From Kamloops With Moj & Giulio | May 20
It's a solid Wednesday edition of Live From Kamloops! MOJ & Giulio speak with wide receiver Justin McInnis, rookie linebacker Ralen Goforth and defensive coordinator Mike Benevides on how his side of the ball has stacked up so far in training camp.
Nathan Rourke Training Camp Edition
With almost two weeks of training camp in the books, Matt and Nik are joined by reigning Most Outstanding Player and Outstanding Canadian Nathan Rourke in Kamloops. Rourke talks about camp life, the ups and downs of daily battles against an improved Lion defence and how he holds himself to a high standard, no matter what happened on the previous play. We also talk more about the Tournament Capital
Live From Kamloops With MOj & Giulio | May 19
MOJ & Giulio bring you another solid show from training camp, as general manager Ryan Rigmaiden, Most Outstanding Defensive Player Mathieu Betts and rookie wide receiver Nate Demontagnac all stop by in a big hour of Lions talk!
Live From Kamloops With MOJ & Giulio | May 18
This week, we're bringing you some bonus content! MOJ & Giulio are on location at BC Lions Training Camp. Monday's show features Buck Pierce, James Butler and newcomer Darnell Sankey as our broadcast crew brings you all the latest news from Kamloops.
Training Camp Week 1 + Player Performance Talk With Tanner Care
Matt and Nik are back, this time from the beautiful boardroom backdrop of Canada’s Tournament Capital in Kamloops, B.C. Along with giving the goods on the first few days of training camp, the fellas welcome in Tanner Care, the Lions’ Director of Player Performance, to talk about the Lions' strength and conditioning. How much has S&C changed over the years? Tanner shares his insight and breaks down
Training Camp Preview + Farhan Lalji Interview
It’s camp week at last! Matt & Nik are back to take a look at some of the more exciting position battles to look forward to in Kamloops. TSN’s Farhan Lalji stops by to give his takes on how the Lions look heading into a season with high expectations and also weighs in on the new CFL playoff format coming in for 2027. The boys also scroll through the Summer Series and Friday Night Lions game themes
Draft Recap with J.C. Abbott & 1st-Round Pick Nate DeMontagnac
It was a busy couple of days in Lions land, as the club landed a total of nine new prospects in the Canadian and Global Drafts. 3DownNation’s J.C. Abbott joins Matt & Nik in-studio for a thorough breakdown of all the Lions’ selections. The boys also debate the big news of a new playoff format and schedule for 2027. Wide receiver Nate DeMontagnac joins the podcast to discuss his excitement for goin
Head Coach Buck Pierce ‘Running’ Into Year Two At The Helm
How does the head coach see this Lions squad heading into 2026? Matt and Nik welcome Buck Pierce into the studio for a look at the overall roster, Nathan Rourke’s quest for bigger things and the organization’s quest to take the next step. Buck also talks about what has kept him busy away from the office this winter. The fellas also preview special teams, next week’s Canadian and Global Drafts and
Chase Brice & Stanley Berryhill Interviews + Lions Defence Preview
With just over four weeks to go until all hands are on deck in Kamloops, Matt & Nik break down the Lions’ coaching staff announcements and preview what should be an intense defensive competition in camp. With Nathan Rourke set to begin a few days of offensive workouts, we speak with quarterback Chase Brice and wide receiver Stanley Berryhill in studio. We wrap it up as always with some trivia and
CFL Combine Season Loading + Assistant GM Rob Ralph Interview
With just over six weeks until all hands are on deck for training camp in Kamloops, Matt and Nik are back to preview this week’s CFL Combine and Draft season with Assistant General Manager Rob Ralph. The boys talk with Rob on what the brass looks for at these events and how the process of evaluating draft prospects continues to evolve. We also begin to preview camp with a deep dive into the offenc
Casey Sayles On Excitement For Moving West
The off-season MARCHES on, as Matt & Nik bring you the latest in BC Lions land. Defensive tackle Casey Sayles joins the show to talk about his decision to move West and how it’s a perfect fit for him and his family. Sayles is excited to be re-united with defensive line coach Randy Melvin and a couple of former teammates. We also bring you a special version of BC Lions trivia after Bakes surpassed
Touchdown Kelowna, Free Agent Signings & James Butler + Patrice Rene Interviews
Matt & Nik catch up with James Butler and Patrice Rene, two key players on the field and in the community. Along with looking ahead to a big 2026 season, the fellas talk about the importance of being community ambassadors and about the specific school programs they take part in, including Be More Than A Bystander sponsored by BCMEA. We also continue to hype up Touchdown Kelowna and some of the big
2026 Roster Building & Free Agency Talk With GM Ryan Rigmaiden
With Kowalski on assignment at Super Bowl XL in the Bay Area, Baker is flying solo on this special weekend edition of 1st and Now. General manager Ryan Rigmaiden joins the show to discuss a variety of topics with our football team, including the re-signing of a few key veterans, the backup quarterback position, the pending departures of Jarell Broxton and Ayden Eberhardt, and a timeline for naming
Nathan Rourke Is Here To Stay & Catching Up With Adam Konar, Chris Schleuger & Jonah Tavai
It’s a great time of the year for CFL talk! Matt and Nik break down Nathan Rourke’s multi-year contract extension and what it means for both the Lions franchise and quarterback record books. With the free agency period less than two weeks away, we discuss a busy time for key transactions and speak with Adam Konar, Chris Schleuger and Jonah Tavai on their respective new deals. And as always, we wra
2026 Season Premiere with Paul LaPolice
Matt and Nik are back for another year of fun and hard-hitting BC Lions talk! On our maiden voyage of 2026, we recap Holiday activities and a busy couple of weeks of signings. TSN analyst and Canada Flag Football head coach Paul LaPolice stops by to talk about his Lions outlook for this season and how the squad is looking to build off of a solid bounce-back campaign. Lapo also gives an update on C
Schedule Breakdown and Around The CFL With Justin Dunk
It was an early Holiday present for BC Lions and CFL fans, as the 2026 schedule was dropped this week! In their finale of 2025, Matt and Nik break down some of the more exciting games of our 72nd season filled with big matchups. Justin Dunk from 3DownNation stops by to talk schedule, the Lions hanging on to Keon Hatcher Sr. and his website’s exciting news of the past week. To wrap it up, we have s
Jacob Bond’s Journey From BCFC To The Lions + Touchdown Kelowna News, Grey Cup Week Recap
Matt and Nik are back on what has been an exciting couple of days in Lions land. The fellas recap Monday’s Touchdown Kelowna announcements and look ahead to the two pivotal matchups with Calgary and Edmonton next summer. Jacob Bond knows a thing or two about the Apple Bowl from his time with the Okanagan Sun, The fullback recaps his rookie season and looks ahead to year two with the squad, which i
End Of Season Roundtable With The Moj & Giulio
The boys welcome in the dynamic duo of The Moj & Giulio for a post-mortem on the Lions’ 2025 season and Western Final loss at Saskatchewan. While the ending wasn’t what we wanted, the fellas all agree that the future is bright with Buck Pierce and Nathan Rourke at the helm. They also discuss what needs to be done this off-season to get over the hump. Matt and Nik also look ahead to both Rourke’s a
BC at Saskatchewan: Previewing Saturday's Western Final
The BC Lions have one last obstacle in front of them for the 112th Grey Cup. On this week’s episode of 1st and Now, Matt, MOJ & Nik zero in on the key areas to focus on against the Saskatchewan Roughriders. The boys also re-hash a thrilling and sometimes stressful win over Calgary in the Western Semi-Final and salute the awesome Lions fans for being noisy and making it fun.
TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 - In
Calgary vs BC: Previewing Saturday's Western Semi-Final
Playoffs? Talking about Playoffs?! The boys are back to break down all you need to know about Saturday’s Western Semi-Final. We have no shortage of storylines, as the Lions look to take down Calgary in November for a third time in four seasons. What key areas are most important? We have you covered. To cap it all, Nik’s famous trivia takes a look at the storied playoff history between these two W
BC Lions Playoff Race + Interview with TSN's Matthew Scianitti
Saskatchewan week! The Lions look for a sixth straight win and home field advantage in the Western Semi-Final, but will face a test against the league-leading Roughriders. TSN’s Matthew Scianitti joins the show to help preview this matchup and give some insight on the race for CFL Most Outstanding Player. Trivia takes us down crossover memory lane and the boys wrap it up with Cam Tucker from BCLC
Jarell Broxton Interview LIVE From Surrey’s Brownsville Pub
It’s been a big year for the offensive line! Left tackle Jarell Broxton joins the program LIVE from Surrey’s Brownsville Pub to discuss just that and the keys to a recent turnaround for the Lions. The boys also preview Friday’s big game with Edmonton, break down all of the crazy playoff scenarios and wrap up the program with some Survivor-style trivia and gaming lines to watch for with Cam Tucker
Battle for 2nd in the West + Jevon Cottoy's Africa Trip & 6K Walk for Water
It’s another Calgary week! Matt, MOJ and Nik get you primed for The Gravy Bowl, as Saturday’s bash with the Calgary Stampeders comes with plenty at stake. Wide receiver Jevon Cottoy joins the show to talk about his pending return from injury, the keys to the recent turnaround and about his role as the Club’s World Vision ambassador and this Sunday’s 6K Walk For Water that will raise money for buil
CFL Rule Changes + Riley Pickett & Carl Meyer Interviews LIVE From Boston Pizza Guildford
The fellas were LIVE on location at Boston Pizza Guildford for a jam packed show. We recap a very busy week for the CFL and break down the CFL rule changes set to take effect next season. We are also joined by Lions fullback Riley Pickett and punter Carl Meyer, who break down the upcoming matchup with the Toronto Argonauts.
TIMESTAMPS:
0:00 - Intro
3:22 - Week 16 at Calgary recap
8:43 - CFL rule
Nathan Rourke vs. Vernon Adams Jr. with Stamps reporter Natasha Staniszewski
Matt, MOJ & Nik preview Friday’s HUGE showdown for the BC Lions against the Calgary Stampeders. They break down the key storylines, including the Nathan Rourke/Vernon Adams Jr. QB matchup, with Stamps reporter Natasha Staniszewski. The fellas also talk about the impact of some newcomers on the defence and other key areas to watch for Friday night. We wrap it up with Cam Tucker from BCLC giving us
Previewing Friday's Rematch with Ottawa & All Things Campus Clash + Mike Sutherland Interview
With a big rematch with Ottawa on the horizon, Matt, MOJ and Nik recap the shocking turn of events on Friday and what needs to be done to turn this Lions ship around with six games to play. REDBLACKS radio analyst Mike Sutherland joins the show to talk about how last week may have turned their fortunes around and how the squad has rallied behind quarterback Dustin Crum. We also have a college-them
Bye Week Recaps, Lineup Changes & Ottawa Preview + Lucky Whitehead Interview
The boys are back to preview a big Friday night battle in Ottawa and some possible lineup changes as the Lions look to get back on track. Lucky Whitehead joins the show from Virginia to talk about his life coaching high school football and raising chickens! Lucky also looks back on some of his best memories as a Lion, including touchdowns from Nathan Rourke and his famous stadium entrances. They w
Montreal Win Recap, Toronto Preview, & Lions OL Talk with 3DownNation's J.C. Abbott
It’s Toronto week! Matt, Nik and the MOJ break down the matchup with 3DownNation’s J.C. Abbott, who also gives his thoughts on Nathan Rourke and a very much improved Lions offensive line through 11 games. Kowalski is back with his world famous trivia featuring some star receivers of the past from both the Lions and Boatmen. We wrap it up with BCLC's Cam Tucker and our weekly Between the Lines segm
Emmanuel Arceneaux Interview LIVE From Boston Pizza Central City
It’s another alumni special as Emmanuel 'Manny' Arceneaux joins the show LIVE from Boston Pizza Central City. Manny talks about his current life as a dad and youth coach, along with going down memory lane for some of his career highlights with the Lions. President Duane Vienneau stops by for a preview of what to expect at Saturday’s Show N’ Shine and all the exciting things happening at our expand
Catching Up With Travis Lulay as BC Lions Invade The Hammer
We are getting you primed for a big rematch in Hamilton! Matt, MOJ and Nik talk about keys to taking down the Ticats. 2011 Grey Cup champion Travis Lulay makes a guest appearance to talk about his thoughts on Nathan Rourke, former teammate Buck Pierce’s transition to head coach, and takes a trip down memory lane. Kowalski’s world-famous trivia returns, featuring Lion players with the longest names
Memory Lane With Bryan Burnham
We are getting you primed for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats and a special Family Traditions game this Sunday! Matt, MOJ and Nik talk about the keys to a Lions bounce-back, plus the group is excited to welcome legend Bryan Burnham to the show for two segments. Burnham looks back on some of the big catches of his career and what he loved most about suiting up in black and orange. The boys also talk to Cam
Watermelon Smash Preview with CFL on TSN's Glen Suitor
It’s Watermelon Smash week! The boys break down all of the key elements to watch for in Saturday’s home battle with the Saskarchewan Roughriders. The CFL on TSN’s Glen Suitor stops by for a preview and recaps a crazy weekend in Regina with the weather delays. Suits also discusses a hot start by the Calgary Stampeders in what is shaping up to be a crazy battle in the West. We wrap it all up with BC
Nathan Rourke and Josh Woods Interviews LIVE From Good Co.
The boys were LIVE on location at Good Co. Granville to recap a clutch win in Montreal. MOJ is FIRED UP this week! Linebacker Josh Woods talks about his return to the lineup and life with the Lions in year five with a new coaching staff. Nathan Rourke makes an appearance to talk about the victory and just how much fun he has had in 2025 thus far! Kowalski’s world famous trivia and Between The Line
Tackling The Montreal Alouettes With Joey Alfieri
The BC Lions are getting some potentially good news on the injury front ahead of Montreal on Saturday! The fellas discuss that and break down a big test with the East-leading Alouettes as Joey Alfieri from their content squad joins the program. This week’s trivia once again features an award-themed segment while we get some early week five lines from BCLC’s Cameron Tucker in Between The Lines.
TI
All Things Lions-Riders with Rod Pedersen
We’re onto Saskatchewan. Matt, Moj and Nik get your primed for the BC Lions' crucial Week 4 test against the undefeated Saskatchewan Roughriders. Veteran broadcaster Rod Pedersen joins the show to set the mood from Riderville as the Watermelon-heads are off to a 3-0 start. Nik’s famous trivia takes a look at the Most Outstanding Canadians of the past quarter century as Canada Day is just around th
Back Home For Rematch with Winnipeg Blue Bombers + Davis Sanchez Interview
Matt, Nik and The MOJ are back to tee up Saturday’s big rematch with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and what the BC Lions need to do in order to earn a split in the season series. The CFL on TSN’s Davis Sanchez joins the show for an overall look at both the Lions and the entire CFL through two weeks of action. We wrap up with Nik Kowalski’s famous trivia and a look at some of the betting lines to watch
Winnipeg Week! Darrin Bauming Helps Preview Massive Week Two Tilt
It’s Winnipeg week! Matt, Nik and MOJ start by recapping the big win over Edmonton last Saturday, which was another banger of a Concert Kickoff! MOJ is fired up over one key element of Thursday’s Bomber clas,h while the fellas also welcome in Darrin Bauming from Bonfire Sports for a look at what they’re saying in Manitoba ahead of this matchup. Nik’s famous trivia is Buck Pierce-themed as the head
Keon Hatcher and James Butler LIVE From Good Co.
Matt, Nik and The MOJ were LIVE at Good Co. on Main St. for a jam-packed week one edition of 1st and Now! Wide receiver Keon Hatcher and running back James Butler joined the show to look back at a solid training camp and discuss the excitement to chase a Grey Cup in 2025. The fellas get you primed for Saturday’s Concert Kickoff clash with the Elks and it all wraps up with the return of Kowalski’s
Bob Marjanovich Breaks Down Camp & Upcoming Pre-Season Finale
As we get set for the final couple of days in Kamloops, the fellas bring in Lions play-by-play man Bob “The Moj” Marjanovich for an overall look at training camp and what to expect for our pre-season clash in Edmonton later this week. The boys also have some fun with their road trip city rankings! We welcome back Cam Tucker from BCLC & PlayNow.com for a look at some new pre-season wagering lines
Looking Back At Langford & Key Camp Storylines With Rob Ralph
We have a game to recap! Matt and Nik are back on campus in Kamloops following 24 hours of fun at Bear Mountain Resort and Starlight Stadium. The fellas talk about solid performances in the pre-season opener and what to look forward to for the final 10 days of training camp. Assistant GM Rob Ralph joins the show to talk camp and what he sees from the Lions’ rookie Canadians so far. As always, we h
A Look At Camp Battles & 2025 Roster Construction With Neil McEvoy
One week into the Kamloops fun, Matt and Nik break down key camp battles shaping up and react to the exciting news of Snoop Dogg performing 2025 Concert Kickoff. VP of Football Operations Neil McEvoy joins the show to give a perspective on how the roster is shaping up and some camp memories from years past with the team. The fellas also bring our always-entertaining 'Go For It Or Punt' and 'They N
Boots On The Ground In Kamloops With Nathan Rourke
Matt and Nik made it to Kamloops and are fired up for the start of another BC Lions training camp. Nathan Rourke sits down with the fellas to talk about a productive off-season of training, film study and being an ambassador for the club's community programs. Nathan also breaks down being with younger brother Kurtis on the night the San Francisco 49ers called his name at the NFL Draft. The boys pr
A Closer Look At The Re-Tooled Defence
With ONE WEEK remaining until we hit the field in Kamloops, Matt and Nik recap a productive CFL Draft and take a look at the BC Lions' defence heading into 2025. Hear from linebackers coach Glen Young on his football philosophy, history as a player that includes a Super Bowl appearance and his other talents. Ryan Phillips joins the show to discuss his new role on the coaching staff and how he see
Special Teams Coordinator Cory McDiarmid On Being Back With Lions After 25 Years
With less than two weeks to go until the Kamloops heat, Matt and Nik bring you a jam-packed episode of 1st and Now. We bring in special teams coordinator Cory McDiarmid for a stroll down memory lane from his first stint and a breakdown of the Lions’ important pieces on teams. The fellas also discuss their favourite game themes coming up this season and get ready for next Tuesday’s CFL and Global D
One Month Out | We Introduce You To A Trifecta Of New Assistant Coaches
Matt and Nik are back and getting giddy with inside 30 days remaining until our first training camp practices in Kamloops. With the coaching staff trickling into the office, the fellas speak with offensive line coach Paul Charbonneau, running backs coach Kristian Matte and receivers coach/passing game coordinator Kevin Bourgoin. The boys also take a closer look at the offence and bring you our reg
Getting to Know Micah Awe and Deontai Williams
Matt and Nik are joined by a couple of off-season additions to the 2025 BC Lions roster. First, linebacker Micah Awe joins the show to talk about returning to the Lions, approaching 100 CFL games, playing at Texas Tech, and the different aspects of the state of Texas. Next, defensive back Deontai Williams discusses why he signed with BC, his father Roosevelt’s NFL and CFL playing days, and how Coa
March Madness, BC Lions Style with GM Ryan Rigmaiden
The Madness is just beginning! Matt and Nik preview this week’s CFL Combine and look ahead to some of the key training camp battles on the horizon. General manager Ryan Rigmaiden joins the show to talk about some of the things the squad is looking for in the Draft along with his expectations for training camp in Kamloops. 0:00 - Intro
8:11 - Rob Ralph promoted to assistant general manager
11:43 -
Putting The Bow On A Busy February with TSN's Farhan Lalji
What happens in Vegas doesn't stay in Vegas. The boys are back and Bakes is playing hurt after a few days of fun in Sin City. He and Nik bring you all the latest stories from Lions land, including an overall look at free agency and intriguing camp battles with TSN's Farhan Lalji. Our Go For It Or Punt and They Not Like Us segments go heavy on the 4 Nations Faceoff!
0:00 - intro
4:05 - Kristian Ma
Free Agent Additions, Nik and Moj's New Orleans Escapades with Bob Marjanovich
The boys are back to recap a busy first couple of days on the free agent front for your BC Lions. Bob "The Moj" Marjanovich stops by to talk about the new additions, the new coaching staff and what training camp battles he is excited about. The fellas also recap an eventful Super Bowl week where MOJ and Nik had boots on the ground in New Orleans, a city that Bakes is also quite familiar with. This
Free Agency Preview With Giulio Caravatta
The offseason has kicked into high gear as free agency is just around the corner. Lions' analyst Giulio Caravatta joins Matt and Nik to break down the key re-signings so far and what the squad might look to address when the market opens. Giulio also gives a solid account of the current state of Canadian quarterbacks. The fellas also discuss their favourite parts of the 2025 schedule and branch out
Special Episode With Bo Lokombo As He Reflects On Career And What's Next
Bo Lokombo joins Matt and Nik on the heels of his retirement from football to recap some of his fondest memories as a Lion, both on and off the field. The linebacker leaves a lasting legacy as both a player and someone who gave back to his community, most recently as a proud ambassador for World Vision Canada.
2025 Loading: Signings, Trades & Coaches, Oh My! Plus Josh Woods Interview
In the 2025 season premiere of 1st and Now, Matt & Nik have plenty to talk about! From key player transactions to the coaching staff being assembled by Buck Pierce, the season prep. is in full force. The boys also talk with linebacker Josh Woods on both his injury recovery and the tragic fire situation in Los Angeles. To close it out, it’s an NFL-themed version of both ‘Go For It Or Punt’ or ‘They
Holiday Edition? You Can Place Your 'Betts' On It!
Matt and Nik bring you the final episode of 2024 which happens to come on the same day 2023 Most Outstanding Defensive Player Mathieu Betts signed for two more years. The boys break that and a few other transactions down, talk about their favourite Christmas gifts of all time and have some fun with our 'Go For It Or Punt' and 'They Not Like Us' segments! Happy Holidays to all of our great listener
Buck Pierce Era Begins
It's been a big week for the BC Lions as Buck Pierce was officially sworn in as the team's 28th head coach. Buck joins this week's episode to reflect on arriving in Canada nearly 20 years ago, his greatest Lion memories, rising through the coaching ranks in Winnipeg and he also answers questions from fans in our latest mailbag. Matt and Nik also give their thoughts on the hire and branch out in ou
Lions Changes & A Grey Cup Recap With Ben Grant
Matt and Nik break down the Lions' big week of moves while saluting Rick Campbell's job one day after he left the organization. The boys also recap an exciting and fulfilling Grey Cup week for Vancouver and discuss the Argonauts' victory with Ben Grant from XsandArgos, TSN 1050 and Three Down Nation.
BC Lions Off-Season Begins
Matt and Nik return with some post-mortem as the Lions fell short once again in their quest for a seventh Grey Cup. The fellas look back at key moments in the loss to Saskatchewan and look ahead to this weekend's division finals plus set the stage for what will still be a fun week of festivities as Vancouver gets set to host the 111th Grey Cup.
We Love Regina In November
It’s s jam-packed edition of the podcast as Matt and Nik preview all of the key storylines for Saturday’s Western Semi-Final in Saskatchewan. Hear from Lions analyst Giulio Caravatta, head coach Rick Campbell, defensive back Garry Peters plus a discussion with CJME Regina’s Jamie Nye. November in the CFL has arrived!
0:00 - Intro
1:34 - Week 20 vs Montreal, regular season recap
5:21 - Rick Camp
(Regular) Season Finale With Alex Hollins, Vernon Adams & More
Matt and Nik bring you the final regular season podcast of 2024 before the playoff fun begins in two weeks! The fellas break down the quarterback change and keys to entering the playoffs on a high and also speak with Alexander Hollins on the vibe following last week's loss in Regina. Plus, Vernon Adams Jr, Nathan Rourke
and Rick Campbell make post-practice appearances.
Ramping Up For Regina And Huge 2nd Place Battle
Matt and Nik are extra fired up after a victory and ready to go into hostile territory as the Lions prepare for a big tilt with the Saskatchewan Roughriders on Saturday. You will hear from head coach Rick Campbell and defensive lineman Mathieu Betts on the keys to victory and the fellas also preview three other games across week 19 in the CFL. The fun wraps up with our always-entertaining 'Go For
Serving Up A Gravy Bowl Preview As Lions Look To Get Back On Track
Matt and Nik tee up Friday's big battle against the Stampeders and what to expect in some key areas as we prepare for another eventful Gravy Bowl. The fellas also discuss the two transactions this week and how the impact the active roster on Friday. Hear from Rick Campbell and Nathan Rourke on the keys to victory along with some spicy takes in 'Go For It Or Punt.'
TSN's Glen Suitor Discusses The Upcoming Stretch Drive And Previews Friday Night Football Against Hamilton
Matt and Nik are back after a bye week to preview the four-game stretch drive with TSN's Glen Suitor. 'Suits' breaks down what he likes about this Lions squad, the decision to go with Nathan Rourke and the differences between a Hamilton team that has found some juice since the last time we faced them.
Damon Allen Talks 2000 Grey Cup Ahead Of The Squad's Wall Of Fame Induction
The fellas catch up with Lions' all-time passing leader and 2000 Grey Cup champion Damon Allen ahead of Legends Night when the squad gets inducted to our Wall of Fame. Allen shares great stories and a few nuggets on how that team pulled together to win it all. Matt and Nik also recap the big win in Montreal and break down the keys to sinking the Boatmen this Friday.
0:00 - Intro
1:21 - Week 14 a
Previewing The Alouettes, Some Lion Award Candidates & Victoria Memories
An episode so jam-packed, no guest was required! Matt and Nik recap an unforgettable Touchdown Pacific including their favourite off-field moments and a dominant win over Ottawa. It’s Montreal week and the fellas zone in on some key storylines against the Alouettes. With one-third of the season to go, they also go over some highs and lows of 2024 thus far while taking a look at some Lions award ca
Touchdown Pacific & A Breakdown With Veteran Sukh Chungh
It's a big week in Lions land as the squad is set to embark on Victoria and our Touchdown Pacific rematch with Ottawa. Matt and Nik recap Saturday's loss to the Redblacks and bring in offensive lineman Sukh Chungh for a fun interview on football, food and much more. The boys wrap it up by previewing OK Tire Labour Day Weekend in the CFL and with the always popular 'go for it or punt' segment.
Set To Invade R Nation
Matt and Nik are back in a jampacked week to recap Nathan Rourke's return and another tough loss to the Blue Bombers. Now it's all about a special home-and-home series with the Ottawa REDBLACKS with round one Saturday in the nation's capital. REDBLACKS radio voice A.J. Jakubec stops by for a preview of the game and a look at the tenth anniversary of football's return to Ottawa which will be celebr
Harpreet Pandher On Sunday's Winnipeg Battle & Impact Of Lions Radio Punjabi Broadcasts
It’s buzzin’ inside Lion headquarters this week as Matt and Nik talk about Nathan Rourke’s return, Sunday’s pivotal showdown with Winnipeg, and around week 11 of the CFL with some juicy matchups in store. The boys also welcome Lions Radio Punjabi broadcaster Harp Pandher to talk about the news of the week and his path to broadcasting Punjabi games for football and hockey.
Special Episode | Beyond Borders Kenya Expedition with World Vision
In this special episode of 1st & Now, Matt Baker & Nik Kowalski welcome BC Lions' linebacker Bo Lokombo, Senior VP of Business George Chayka, ex-CFLer & co-host of The Waggle, Henoc Muamba and Kyla Findlay from World Vision following a life-changing trip to East Africa. From visits to schools and youth centres, to playing ball in one of the largest refugee camp in the world, the crew talks about t
Talking Defence, Tre Ford Challenge & Women's Flag Football With Tanya Henderson
Matt & Nik are back after a long weekend of fun and adventure for each guy. Now it's all about football once again as the fellas recap what went wrong in Winnipeg and discuss the keys for a bounce back in Edmonton this Sunday. Assistant defensive backs coach Tanya Henderson talks about the Elks challenge, Lions defence and promotes next week's women's flag football clinic in Surrey.
0:00 - Intro,
Bakes & Nik Celebrate 100 Episodes Of 1st and Now
This week on the podcast, Matt & Nik pay tribute to 100 episodes recorded dating back to March 11, 2022 when we re-launched the podcast with Rick Campbell as our guest. There have been many laughs, stories, recaps of wins and losses and other great memories along the way! Strap in and join us as we look back at some of our best interviews and look ahead to the next 100!
0:00 - intro
1:42 - Rick C
Breaking Down The Bombers With Winnipeg's Own Hustler Paterson
Matt and Nik are jacked up after a bye week and ready for our 5th trip to Winnipeg in the last 13 months. Along with previewing the Blue Bombers with Hustler Paterson from Winnipeg Sports Talk, Matt and Nik ring in their 100th episode together by going around the CFL in what is shaping up to be an exciting week of action across the league.
Giulio Caravatta on the 5-1 start, what makes Vernon Adams Jr. an elite QB and preview of Calgary
Lions analyst Giulio Caravatta joins the podcast to give an assessment on the squad after six games and help preview Sunday’s big matchup in Calgary and what to expect from a Stampeders squad that has lost two in a row. Giulio also breaks down what makes Vernon Adams Jr. the elite player he is. Matt and Nik also go around the CFL while recapping last week’s impressive victory over Saskatchewan tha
