SPORTS WITH HARP: BC Lions Stumble Early, Can’t Complete Comeback vs. Saskatchewan

22 July 2025

The Saskatchewan Roughriders play the BC Lions at BC Place — The Saskatchewan Roughriders play the BC Lions in their CFL game at BC Place on July 19 in Vancouver. (Photos by Jeff Vinnick/BC Lions)

BY HARPREET PANDHER

Broadcaster on Hockey Night in Canada Punjabi and

BC Lions Football Punjabi

IG/X/TikTok: @harppandher

VANCOUVER: The BC Lions slow start proved costly in a 33-27 home loss to the Saskatchewan Roughriders Saturday at BC Place. The Leos trailed 17- after 1 quarter. Despite a second-half comeback attempt led by quarterback Nathan Rourke, the Lions couldn’t overcome a 22-point deficit and now find themselves 3-4 on the season, sitting fourth in the West Division.

It was a night where the Lions were forced to play catch-up after Saskatchewan set the tone early with an explosive offensive performance. Roughriders quarterback Trevor Harris picked up right where he left off last week, once again shredding a defense for nearly 400 passing yards. Harris and the Riders built a commanding lead through big gains and sharp execution, punishing the Lions’ defense with quick reads and well-timed throws.

Ayden Eberhardt was a standout target, finishing with a pair of touchdown grabs, while Stanley Berryhill III added a TD. He now leads the Lions with 5 TDs on the season. Defensively, the Lions had their hands full containing Harris, who connected consistently with his receivers and made quick reads to avoid pressure. Linebackers Ben Hladik and Micah Awe led the team in tackles. Awe hit a milestone with his 500th CFL tackle.

Now at 3-4, the Lions find themselves needing answers. The talent is evident — from Rourke at QB to the depth at receiver — but the inconsistency on both sides of the ball continues to haunt them. The West Division is as competitive as ever, and slipping below .500 makes the road ahead even steeper.

Still, there were positives in the second-half surge. The Lions proved they have the ability to battle back and go toe-to-toe with one of the league’s top teams. But moral victories don’t count in the standings.

The Lions will now turn their attention to next week, knowing that if they can put together a complete game, they can beat anyone in the league. But they’ll need to do it soon, or risk losing ground in a crowded playoff race.

Up next for the Lions is a matchup with the 4-2 Hamilton Tiger-Cats this Sunday, July 27th 4pm at Save on Foods Field at B.C. Place Stadium

Fans can also kick off game day early at the BC Lions Backyard presented by PlayNow, starting at 12 p.m. As part of the Family Traditions Game, the Backyard features live music from DJ Rock’N’Beau, roaming mascots, face painting, and more — the perfect way to start your Lions game day.