Dominant from his debut, defensive end Mathieu Betts took some getting used to when he made his CFL debut in Edmonton in 2019, but he really shined this year in his second season with the BC Lions.
Betts broke the record for most sacks by a Canadian player in CFL history with 18. He beat out Brent Johnson, whose number 97 jersey hangs high at BC Place and who was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2018, and Jamaal Westermann of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Betts made history last Friday in a 41-16 loss to the Calgary Stampeders when he managed to reach Jake Maier.
“It’s a great personal achievement,” he said on Wednesday after the Lions practice, “but I’m not in celebration mode because, above all, I want to finish the season strong and start the playoffs off on a low note.” This record reflects the project 2022 reflected when I arrived in Vancouver. People had doubts about our defensive line, which had completely changed. I enjoy it, but I’m proud that our group is being highlighted.”
Difficult start in Edmonton
His first two seasons in Edmonton in 2019 and 2021 were not easy. His arrival in Vancouver was beneficial. With 18 sacks, Betts surpassed the nine he had in his first three campaigns.
“I didn’t question myself after the 2021 season, which was statistically zero, but I wasn’t happy,” he summarized. It’s been a frustrating year. I haven’t changed anything in my approach or preparation. My successes this year show that I always did the right things even when things were more difficult. I’m proud of my resilience and that I continue to believe in myself.”
“I could have done without those tough seasons,” Betts added, “but good things happen when you keep working. My goal now is to be as consistent as possible.”
We thank his coach and David Ménard
Former Alouettes star player John Bowman has been the Lions’ defensive coach for two years. “After 14 seasons in the CFL, he knows everything and gives us confidence by making us believe in our abilities,” Betts said. I saw the Alouettes when I was younger and John was an inspirational player. It’s special to be guided by this adopted Quebecer. I find myself in a positive environment, as was the case at Notre-Dame, Old Montreal and Laval.”
Betts also has good words for David Ménard, with whom he shares duties as a defensive winger and who has been back with the Lions since 2022 after a season with the Montreal Alouettes. “I benefit from his experience. His knowledge and preparation help me. We are not on a mission to represent Quebec football, but we are proud of our journey and it shows that football is healthy here.
“It’s impressive what Mathieu has achieved”
Defensive lineman David Ménard sat in the front row and witnessed Betts’ accomplishments during this historic season. He enjoyed every moment. “It’s impressive what Mathieu has done,” said the Lions’ fourth-round pick in 2014. “He hasn’t changed anything in his game. He used the same recipe, focusing on his speed, his vision of the game and his intensity.”
“He didn’t tell anyone about it but I think there was an extra fire burning to achieve what people thought he was capable of, which was to pursue the former Carabins player. from the University of Montreal.” Every day we had the same routine. He’s not a cocky guy and it was natural for him to be successful. It’s impressive that his attitude hasn’t changed.”
Two important honors
While all teams in the Ambrosie Circuit announced their most deserving players, the Lions today selected Betts as their defensive player of choice and top Canadian. The former Laval University Rouge et Or player recorded two or more sacks four times, including three against the Bombers on June 22, and led the Lions’ defensive linemen with 42 tackles.
“It’s an incredible honor because there are several good defensive players and Canadians here,” Betts said. It’s really flattering to be recognized among all these good players.”