1st and Now
153 episodes - English - Latest episode: 3 days ago - ★★★★★ - 2 ratingsStep 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 in studio for a unique look at BC Lions football and other stories in the world of sports.
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Episodes
A Watermelon Smash Week Episode Featuring Chase Brice
July 11, 2024 03:41 - 53 minutes - 49.5 MBMatt and Nik are back to preview Saturday's 1st place battle with Saskatchewan and some of the exciting plans for our second annual Watermelon Smash. Quarterback Chase Brice joins the fellas to talk about his memories of Clemson, his friendship with Trevor Lawrence and adjustments to life in the Canadian Football League.
Special Episode On Help Starts Here Program With BC Government & Lions Alumni
July 09, 2024 21:46 - 29 minutes - 27.3 MBMatt & Nik bring you a special 1st and Now with Lion legends Jamie Taras, Angus Reid and Honourary Jennifer Whiteside, Minster of Mental Health And Addiction. The roundtable discusses the Help Starts Here Program and how people battling mental health and addictions can seek help.
Talking Ticats With Hamilton Football Staple Steve Milton
July 04, 2024 01:18 - 1 hour - 58.9 MBIt's Hamilton week as the Lions are back at work in search of a fourth straight win this Sunday. Matt and Nik are thrilled to be joined by Steve Milton, formerly with the Hamilton Spectator and now with Ticats.ca. 'Uncle Milty' gives a thorough breakdown of what has plagued the Ticats in their 0-4 start while giving credit to how well Bo Levi Mitchell has performed despite their record.
Another Elk Hunt Beckons
June 26, 2024 12:45 - 50 minutes - 46 MBIt's another rivalry week as Matt and Nik look ahead to Thursday Night Football against the Edmonton Elks. The boys speak with Elks' radio analyst Dave Campbell on the 0-3 start, how the offence has looked under McLeod Bethel-Thompson and a little check- in on the Alberta Capital after a long Stanley Cup run.
Andrew Harris On Running Back Relentless Doc & Great Lion Memories
June 20, 2024 18:00 - 39 minutes - 36.2 MBA special bonus episode of the podcast this week as BC Lions legend Andrew Harris makes his 1st and Now debut. The 2011 Grey Cup Most Valuable Canadian discusses the documentary ‘Running Back Relentless’ which chronicles his eventful and sometimes turbulent path to pro football. Harris also re-lives some of his best memories in Lion colours.
Winnipeg Week & Previewing Canada's Quest For Another Gold At Worlds
June 19, 2024 16:32 - 49 minutes - 45 MBMatt and Nik recap a special Concert Kickoff home opener against Calgary and a big divisional win. The fellas also look forward to another big divisional test in Winnipeg against a depleted Bombers team. The boys are also excited to welcome Team Canada head coach Warren Craney ahead of this weekend's World Junior Championships in Edmonton where Canada goes for a third straight gold medal.
Previewing Concert Kickoff & A Chat With Joshua Archibald
June 13, 2024 02:17 - 53 minutes - 49.5 MBMatt and Nik tee up Saturday’s much anticipated Concert Kickoff featuring 50 Cent and the keys to taking down the Stampeders. Defensive lineman Josh Archibald joins the show to discuss how much he’s grown in three years while giving an in -depth review of his first career sack in Toronto which had a historical result.
Ayden Eberhardt On Year Two With Lions, Memories Of Wyoming And Love Of Denver Sports
June 06, 2024 00:01 - 45 minutes - 41.9 MBLions' receiver Ayden Eberhardt joins the show to talk about his goals for year two with the squad. He also breaks down some of his great Wyoming memories which included some great stories about quarterback Josh Allen. Matt and Nik also look ahead to the week one opener in Toronto, break down the other three CFL games and recap what has been a busy and exciting week in the city with Lions football grabbing plenty of headlines.
Kyle Nelson On Lions Camp Life, CFL Bloodlines & Memories of the San Francisco 49ers
May 29, 2024 02:56 - 50 minutes - 46.1 MBA conversation with a CFL lifer. Matt and Nik sit down with new long snapper Kyle Nelson who dishes on life in Kamloops and his rich Canadian bloodlines. Plus, Bakes gets some insight on his time with the 49ers which included a memorable Super Bowl clash.
Scouting Life With Jim Jauch As Camp Kicks Into High Gear
May 21, 2024 05:53 - 46 minutes - 42.8 MBMatt and Nik recap the Lions' first camp scrimmage this past weekend plus sit down with director of US Scouting Jim Jauch. Jim talks about the routine of scouting and how his year-round schedule dictates who the team brings into camp.
Scouting Life With Jim Juach As Camp Kicks Into High Gear
May 21, 2024 05:53 - 46 minutes - 42.8 MBMatt and Nik recap the Lions' first camp scrimmage this past weekend plus sit down with director of US Scouting Jim Jauch. Jim talks about the routine of scouting and how his year-round schedule dictates who the team brings into camp.
Training Camp Talk With Ryan Phillips and Jason Tucker
May 16, 2024 06:23 - 59 minutes - 54.5 MBMatt and Nik break down the training camp storylines and position battles plus take a deep dive into the 2011 Grey Cup champion Lions. The boys also talk to Ryan Phillips and Jason Tucker about their camp experience and life in Kamloops.
Talkin' about draft picks, Christian Covington and a 2006 Grey Cup Recap
May 03, 2024 00:24 - 1 hour - 63.2 MBWith one week to go until first-year Lions hit the training camp grind in Kamloops, Matt and Nik recap the 2024 draft class with 3 Down Nations's JC Abbott. Offensive lineman and round- one selection George Una also stops by. The boys also break down a huge week of signings headlined by the addition of local boy Christian Covington and continue the Grey Cup recap series by breaking down a dominant 2006 squad.
Welcoming 2000 Champs To Wall Of Fame With Jamie Taras & Sean Millington
April 18, 2024 15:57 - 1 hour - 60 MBMatt & Nik are back with a deep dive on the 2000 Grey Cup win as that year's unforgettable squad will enter the Wall Of Fame later this year. Jamie Taras and Sean Millington join the show for a look back on some of the best memories from the championship season, including an intense battle in the backfield with Millington and Robert Drummond. The fellas also preview special teams as 2024 training camp draws even closer.
Big Play VA Joins The Show
April 03, 2024 19:56 - 1 hour - 61.1 MBMatt and Nik catch up with Vernon Adams Jr. from his home in Tacoma. VA talks about his motivation for the 2024 season, the role he played in helping recruit key free agents to the den and his thoughts on March Madness! The boys also continue their Grey Cup recaps with a look at the unforgettable 1994 championship.
Combine Memories, Travel Talk & Gearing Up for 2024 With David Menard
March 21, 2024 17:22 - 56 minutes - 51.7 MBDefensive lineman David Menard joins the fellas from his offseason training hub in Montreal. Menard talks about the mindset and goals ahead of his 10th CFL season, how the Combine process has changed since he worked out for CFL teams in 2014 and much more. Matt and Nik also continue our 70th Season Grey Cup recaps by breaking down the performance of our 1985 champions and a big win over Hamilton.
Game Themes, Grey Cup Throwback & Coach Tanya on International Women's Day
March 08, 2024 18:20 - 42 minutes - 39 MBMatt and Nik dish out their favourite Lions home game themes of 2024 plus begin their deep dives into our Grey Cup championship teams with a look at the 1964 squad! Tanya Henderson also joins the fellas to talk about an exciting new flag football venture as we honour International Women’s Day.
Free Agent Additions, Vegas Stories & Key Camp Battles Ahead
February 15, 2024 22:35 - 43 minutes - 40.3 MBMatt and Nik recap a busy week of Lions free agent activity while looking ahead to some exciting battles brewing for 2024 training camp in May. Matt has strong takes on watching big games around big crowds while Nik is about to jump on the Taylor Swift bandwagon. Intro - 0:00 BC Lions re-signings - 7:54 Free agency signings - 10:45 Early team positional battles - 25:02 Victoria Play with the Pros trip - 31:18 Go for It or Punt - 33:39
Chopping Wood With Tibo Debaillie| The Boys Head To Belgium & Look Ahead To Super Bowl LVIII
February 01, 2024 21:08 - 48 minutes - 44.1 MBMatt and Nik speak with newly re-signed DL Tibo Debaillie on life in Belgium and his path to Canada. The fellas also break down some other key Lions signings and give their thoughts on Super Bowl 58 between Kansas City and San Francisco. Nik is also jacked for his first trip to Las Vegas! 0:00 - intro 2:54 - weekly BC Lions news 13:35 - CFL news 15:46 - Arrow Up talk 18:42 - Tibo Debaillie interview 36:27 - Go For it or Punt 44:06 - Super Bowl talk
2024 Season Premiere With Ryan Rigmaiden
January 19, 2024 20:10 - 58 minutes - 53.9 MBMatt and Nik are back with our opening episode of 2024 as we recap a busy week of key Lions signings and also chat with assistant GM Ryan Rigmaiden on the talent evaluation process. The fellas also look ahead to the NFL Divisional Playoffs and talk television and football overtime rules in our 'Go For It Or Punt' segment. 0:00- Intro 4:06- Lions player news and signings 21:58- Ryan Rigmaiden, Lions assistant GM 40:53- Go For It Or Punt 50:22- General Sports Talk
Schedule Breakdown, Holiday Traditions & And A Talk With RP
December 14, 2023 19:14 - 53 minutes - 49.1 MBMatt and Nik are here with the final show of 2023! The boys do a deep dive into the 2024 regular season schedule and talk favourite road cities while discussing a few special holiday traditions. Plus, Ryan Phillips joins the show to talk about his new coaching role and excitement for his 16th season with the Lions organization.
Talking Touchdown Pacific And A Lookahead To Free Agency With Giulio Caravatta
December 01, 2023 23:28 - 48 minutes - 44.9 MBThe offseason may be underway, but that doesn't exist for Matt and Nik! The boys break down an exciting Touchdown Pacific announcement and also talk about some important work ahead with Lions radio analyst Giulio Caravatta.
Live From Lions Den In Hamilton | Sean Whyte & Neil McEvoy
November 18, 2023 20:01 - 34 minutes - 31.9 MBMatt and Nik are back from Lions Den in Hamilton at the 110th Grey Cup! Sean Whyte joins the program to break down his stellar All-Star season while Co-GM Neil McEvoy talks Grey Cup week, puts a wrap on the 2023 Lions campaign, and looks ahead to another off-season process.
Live From Lions Den In Hamilton | Mathieu Betts
November 17, 2023 22:53 - 23 minutes - 21.4 MBThe boys are LIVE from 2023 Lions Den in Hamilton! Most Oustanding Defensive Player Mathieu Betts talks about winning his award, motivation for next season, and the love and support from his fiancee Camile who was in attendance.
Come On Down To Winnipeg| Western Final Preview
November 08, 2023 00:52 - 39 minutes - 36.7 MBBack to Winnipeg for another Western Final showdown! Matt and Nikl talk with "Hustler" Paterson from Winnipeg Sports Talk for an overview of this game from a Bomber perspective. The fellas also recap a special Saturday at BC Place in the Western Semi-Final, and how Vernon Adams Jr. rose to the occasion in his first Lion playoff start.
A Western Semi-Final Smorgasbord | Previewing Saturday Playoff Tilt
October 30, 2023 23:24 - 1 hour - 58.4 MBIt's playoff week! Matt and Nik are back to preview Saturday's Western Semi-Final with the resurgent Calgary Stampeders. The boys speak with both Farhan Lalji from TSN and long-time Stampeders' radio man Mark Stephen. The fellas also recap a productive weekend on social media and discuss the team's award nominees in 2023.
And Then There Was One | Previewing Final Playoff Dress Rehearsal
October 17, 2023 01:57 - 28 minutes - 25.7 MBMatt and Nik recap an impressive win in Hamilton and look ahead to the final regular season tilt on Friday with Calgary. The boys also recap some of their favourite memories of this season to date and break down all of the scenarios as the Lions are still alive in the battle for first in the Western Division.
Short Term Setback For a Long Term Comeback
October 10, 2023 05:13 - 33 minutes - 30.7 MBThe boys recap Friday's crazy clash against Winnipeg and keys to bouncing back against a resurgent Tiger-Cat squad in Hamilton this week. Hear from wide receiver Jevon Cottoy on his career year and linebackers coach Travis Brown who breaks down his solid position group heading into the final two weeks before the playoffs arrive.
Pass The Gravy: Previewing Thanksgiving Weekend Showdown With Bombers
October 03, 2023 00:51 - 42 minutes - 38.9 MBMatt and Nik are back to tee up Friday's critical first-place showdown with the Blue Bombers and break down the case for Vernon Adams Jr. to get more Most Outstanding Player consideration. Plus. you will hear from former Bomber Michael Couture on being on the Lion side of this solid rivalry.
RP, 'Batman' and Lions Regain A Little Swagger Ahead Of Rider Matchup
September 26, 2023 00:51 - 41 minutes - 38.4 MBMatt and Nik are back to break down what they loved about the Lions' playoff-clinching win in Edmonton and how the defence did a great job neutralizing Tre Ford. Ryan Phillips and Alex Hollins join the show to give their respective thoughts and tee up Friday's big matchup with Saskatchewan.
Comeback Kids Invade Edmonton
September 21, 2023 00:10 - 29 minutes - 26.9 MBMatt and Nik recap the wild comeback win over Ottawa and how they each viewed Terry Williams' touchdown return as it happened. The fellas also preview Friday's clash against an improved Elks team as the Lions look to nail down a playoff berth for a second straight season.
And Then There Were Six: Previewing Ottawa, Reviewing Beyonce & Much More
September 13, 2023 00:20 - 39 minutes - 36.5 MBMatt and Nik are back after a bye week to tee up the regular season stretch drive as Saturday presents a home challenge against the Ottawa REDBLACKS. Hear from defensive lineman Josh Banks on the keys to containing Ottawa's attack, plus running backs coach Trysten Dyce on the play of his position group and going up against his father's team this weekend. Nik is also a big fan of Beyonce's concert this week.
Labour Of Love: Looking Ahead To Montreal Clash
August 30, 2023 22:47 - 42 minutes - 38.6 MBMatt and Nik look ahead to the Labour Day weekend clash in Montreal! Hear from Vernon Adams Jr. on facing his old team plus defensive linemen Josh Archibald and David Menard who make the return to their home province. The fellas also look ahead to eating some good poutine this weekend.
Back Home For a Hammerfest & A Chat With Garry Peters
August 23, 2023 23:51 - 30 minutes - 27.7 MBMatt and Nik look back at a tough physical battle in Saskatchewan and break down the keys to a bounce back at home against Hamilton this week. The fellas also talk with defensive back Garry Peters about a friendly wager with an ex-teammate now in Black and Gold.
Mid-Season Awards, Preparing For Regina & A Talk With Tuck
August 16, 2023 00:55 - 34 minutes - 31.9 MBMatt and Nik recap a dominating win over Calgary and a special Wall of Fame night. You will also hear from wide receivers coach Jason Tucker while the fellas hand out midseason awards for the 7-2 Lions who get set to invade Saskatchewan.
The West Gauntlet Continues With Calgary
August 09, 2023 23:46 - 42 minutes - 38.8 MBIt's a Wall of Fame edition of the podcast as Matt and Nik look ahead to Saturday's home contest where the Lions look to wrap up the season series and move eight points clear of the Stampeders. We will also hear from Wally Buono and offensive lineman Andrew Peirson who breaks down the tough test against another division rival.
Battling The Bombers | Matt and Nik Preview Week 9 Tilt
July 31, 2023 23:05 - 29 minutes - 27.3 MBNo guest this week as Matt and Nik recap another historic defensive performance in Edmonton and preview their biggest test of the year thus far which takes place in Winnipeg on Thursday. Both the Lions and Blue Bombers will have more key players available than in the last meeting in week three.
The Prez Duane Vienneau Stops By
July 27, 2023 00:50 - 46 minutes - 42.5 MBMatt and Nik look ahead to Dane Evans and the Lions' quest for a win in Edmonton on Saturday. President Duane Vienneau also joins the show to talk about our exciting 2023 home game themes and the success of last week's Watermelon Smash.
Terry Williams Joins The Show As Fellas Tee Up Watermelon Smash
July 20, 2023 00:21 - 39 minutes - 35.8 MBMatt and Nik look ahead to the beginning of a big five-game stretch for the Lions against Western opponents. It starts this Saturday with Saskatchewan in town. The boys are also joined by return specialist 'Scary' Terry Williams who talks about his path from junior college to the pro ranks.
Guinness Record Holder Bobby Dubeau On CFL Stadium Odyssey
July 10, 2023 22:26 - 44 minutes - 41 MBMatt and Nik break down some impressive elements of the club's 4-1 start and also hear from Bobby Dubeau after completing his quest to visit all nine stadiums in 15 days to set a new Guinness World Record!
On To Montreal
July 07, 2023 00:45 - 40 minutes - 37.4 MBMatt and Nik break down some of the more impressive stats for Vernon Adams Jr. and the offence despite a loss in Toronto, plus preview Sunday's home game against Montreal with Alouettes content man extraordinaire Joey Alfieri.
On To The Argos As We Tee Up Week 4 With Davis Sanchez
June 29, 2023 00:04 - 41 minutes - 37.8 MBMatt and Nik look ahead to a big test against the defending Grey Cup champion Argonauts on Monday. Also, CFL on TSN panelist and former Lion Davis Sanchez breaks down what he likes about his old squad.
Talking Beatdown Of Bombers And A Visit With Game Host Katie Hamilton
June 23, 2023 19:23 - 41 minutes - 38.2 MBMatt and Nik are back just hours after landing from Winnipeg. The boys recap an impressive statement win over the Blue Bombers plus talk with Lions' in-game host Katie Hamilton on her role with the team, what prompted her to pursue a career in sports and much more.
TSN's Kate Beirness Recaps Week 1, Looks Ahead To Panel's Vancouver Visit
June 13, 2023 00:42 - 33 minutes - 30.3 MBCFL on TSN Panel host Kate Beirness joins the show to recap week one, look ahead to the Panel's Vancouver visit and discuss overall life working with some of the talented folks at Canada's Sports Leader.
Previewing Season Opener, LL Cool J And A Visit From Sarah Said
June 02, 2023 22:55 - 37 minutes - 34 MBMatt and Nik break down the end of training camp in Kamloops, discuss LL Cool J performing at the June 17 Concert Kickoff plus go around the CFL with Sarah Said from Showtime Digital.
Lucky Whitehead And Dom Rhymes On Kamloops Camp Life
May 17, 2023 00:17 - 36 minutes - 33.2 MBMatt and Nik speak with the dynamic receiving duo of Lucky Whitehead and Dom Rhymes from The Den Cafe in Kamloops. The duo breaks down the first couple of days of camp and discusses 2023 goals with the Lions. The fellas also answer social media questions.
Giulio Caravatta Tees Up 2023 Camp And Breaks Down Key Roster Questions
May 10, 2023 00:44 - 31 minutes - 28.7 MBMatt and Nik have you covered on the eve of Training Camp in Kamloops. The boys welcome in Lions analyst Giulio Caravatta for a deep dive on some key training camp questions plus a look around the CFL as the quest for the Grey Cup beckons.
First-Round Pick Francis Bemiy Joins The Show As Kamloops Beckons
May 05, 2023 00:04 - 40 minutes - 36.9 MBWith less than a week to go until the start of first-year player camp in Kamloops, the fellas recap Tuesday night's CFL Draft plus interview first-round pick Francis Bemiy Jr. who is expected to compete for a spot on the defensive line. Matt and Nik also talk Stanley Cup playoffs.
Punters Are People Too
April 25, 2023 22:47 - 44 minutes - 40.6 MBMatt and Nik welcome in Lions punter Stefan Flintoft for a chat about the upcoming Lions season, his love of golf and the companionship with teammates plus some best memories of his time at UCLA.
Previewing The CFL Draft, '23 Training Camp With Neil McEvoy
April 20, 2023 20:38 - 46 minutes - 42.4 MBCo-GM Neil McEvoy joins the fellas as excitement heats up for another season. Neil looks ahead to the May 2 CFL Draft and discusses the breakdown of the roster as we get closer to training camp. Matt and Nik also break down last week's exciting jersey launch plus talk a little hockey and Major League Baseball.