Word from the Mouth: Have You Ever Seen the Rain?! edition

Wednesday, November 17th Kevin Kousaie

We have made it this far and we just have the last week of the playoffs left. I can tell you I was super glad that I played early this weekend. I know people hate early games but at this time of the year it’s better to play when the fields are fresh and haven’t been torn up all day long.

This week it rained on and off all day, but nothing major until the last game of the day when it was bad. The three players I feel for the most when it’s like that are the QB, the rusher, and the snapper. It’s next to impossible to get a good snap off, especially when you are using a synthetic ball. The QB has the same issues with the ball, but he also must deal with bad footing and trying to avoid the rusher. For the rusher the biggest problem is running into the QB, well, really sliding into the QB, since even when you try to stop short you still have a chance of hitting him.

So far it seems like it will be decent weather next week, but we are looking into moving the games up the street in order to play on synthetic, but nothing is decided yet.

I want to give everyone some possible good news about next season. On Sunday, Jon and I went to Le Ber to fix up the field by putting down some seed and we were going to fill in some holes and level it out. George was there since the Pee-Wee Aces were playing their final game of the year for the championship. George let us know that the city has reached out to him about bringing in some dirt and leveling off the whole field early next year, which will keep the field good for years we hope. Even with the last few weeks off from playing at Le Ber the field looks way better and should be great when we start up next season, hopefully in April or May 2022. Also, in case you are looking to play in the winter, spots are filling up quickly for individuals and if you have a complete team you need to let Jon know ASAP or it might be too late. (ed’s note: we have space for 16 teams and we have 14 already!)

Playoff Recap

Division 1

I will be leaving D1 alone since both Terry and Will played in these games. I will just say one quick thing about each game and what I saw. (ed’s note: that is how Kevin defines “leaving a subject alone”, just not talking about it as much)

Outlaws vs Gros Coqs (35-34) OT

What I heard about this game was that Terry threw a dart to Jafar on a 2-point convert and Marvin who had been quiet all game made the play when it mattered.

Holy Trollers vs Henchmen (13-6)

This was a slow and very boring game to watch. Other than Lesniak looking like a young Ray Lewis making tackles all over the field, the biggest play of the game came when Phil picked the ball off towards the end of the game, it was bound to happen since Rossie started out working field, but then went back to trying to get the big plays.

Division 2

Tannantes vs OG Panthers (32-20)

This was a very good game to watch as it had some offense some defense and even a big play on a convert. OG started great scoring on their first possession then it got away from them. OG had a chance to tie it before half and couldn’t. Tannantes started with the ball in the second half and scored to make it a 2-score game. OG fought back to tie it at 20 on a pass from Simon to Gab for the two-point convert. Being down 6 points with 3:30 left in the game Charles was able to avoid the safety, but not the sack by Fabrice. Now sitting on their own 1-yard line, Charles drops back, throws a quick hook towards Terry, and out of nowhere Phil steps in front of it and is in the endzone for 6 and with that the game was over.

KOLB vs Joey’s Haters (40-33)

This game was a little wilder with big plays all over the place. In last week’s article I didn’t give Haters any shot at winning this one and they came out and tried to prove me wrong. After the game I not sure who exactly came up to see me from KOLB and asked me not to pick them to win so easily next time, because this game was a battle right up to the end. I just saw the stats and how does Max throw 5 picks and only lose by 1 score with a chance at the end to tie it or win it all with a 2-point convert? I wish I had seen this game. Both teams scored right away, and it looked like whoever was better on converts would win this game. The Haters defense stepped up in the first half, not with turnovers, but forcing a few punts. Max took advantage of this and built up a 27-13 halftime lead. At half KOLB made a few adjustments and made Max and the Haters pay. It took KOLB all of 6 minutes to tie the game at 27. After 3 straight turnovers from the Haters, they were finally able to punch one in and take a 33-27 lead that lasted a full 9 seconds, with Jon hitting Vince for the 45 yards score and with a successful convert KOLB were up 1 point. Down 1 with plenty of time on the clock, Max threw a deep pass that was picked off by Christian. With the lead and the ball, Jon led KOLB for their final score of the game and with a 7-point lead they missed the convert to seal the game. On a last-ditch effort Max heaves one up and it is picked off by Jon and just like that KOLB gets to move on.

Division 3

Jagerbomb vs Mustard Tigers (36-19)

I know nothing of this game other than what a few players from Mustard Tigers told me and that was that they got destroyed. I’m sure Terry will have some better info then I will since he is on a team with half of the guys from Jagerbomb. Yes, the score was 3 scores away from being tied, but it was closer than it looks at one point. The thing that gave the game away for Mustard Tigers was allowing Jagerbomb to score in under a minute after you made the score 18-12 them. This also happened to be right before half and Jagerbombs started with the ball in the second half and were able to score making it a 30-12 lead and at this point all Jagerbomb had to do was not screw up and the game was theirs. Really the score was 36-19, but Jagerbomb gave up a TD on the last play of the game.

RawSauce vs Panaches (21-20) OT

I’m not sure how this happens, but it did. Panaches dominated the first half and it looked like they were going to carry that all the way through, but at half RawSauce talked it over and figured it out. The play of the game, or I should say the mistake of the game, came with Panaches up 20-14 with 30 seconds left in. I heard this from the ref afterwards, that on third down Thomas had gone out of bounds and then came back in to play and was the first to touch the ball resulting in a penalty and the clock being stopped. This is where knowing the rules and the situation pays off. Felix should have just thrown the ball away and had one of his players stay on the defensive side of the line of scrimmage until the clock was at zero, then Panaches could have punted with no time left on the clock. Just so everyone is aware the ref can not blow the play in until everyone from the offense and the ball are behind the line of scrimmage. I know it seems like cheating, but at the end of the day a win is a win and who cares how you got it, use the rules to your advantage. In OT it took a few tries before Ludovic hit Antoine for the successful convert. Panaches had an opportunity to tie it but the ball fell incomplete.

Blackout vs Thunder Buddies (20-38)

Ok, I will start by saying that Blackout came late and were down 12 points with the clock running before they had 5 players to take the field. Once Blackout were there and the game was being played it was a close game. I will point out that Steve was playing QB this week and not Terry. After the game Blackout complained about it, but it was too late to do anything about it. I will let Terry go into more details since he was playing in this game.

Division 4

Phoenix vs Airborne (27-12)

From playing in this game, I will tell you the score makes it seem closer than it really was (ed’s note: Jeez…). I will tell you that Guillaume started out great and made me a little nervous. Guillaume marched just past midfield before stalling. With my first possession I had a receiver wide open behind the defense and when I went to throw the ball it started to slip from my hand and it looked like I was shot putting the ball, which ended up getting picked off. After that I was able to settle in and start moving the ball, but so was Guillaume who came close a few times to scoring on drives, but with dropped balls of passes just out of reach couldn’t keep drives going. On both of Airborne TDs they were short plays that the defense just missed tackles multiple times. I would like to know what the defense on Airborne were thinking when I was inside the red zone where I can’t run, but was coming to the line they allowed Gab to get behind them for a score that some people were amazed that she was able to turn around and keep her feet in bounds (ed’s note: it’s on the highlight video!). I also have to give a shout out to Nick who played fantastic defense and was able to knock down 4 passes with a few of them on fourth down and 1 was in the end zone for a score.

Manitoboys vs Spin Doctors (38-21)

I know I give Ralp (ed’s note: I’m leaving this in. That’s not even close to his name, Kevin) a hard time and a lot of shit, but since he left Spin Doctors this team just hasn’t been the same. This week they decided to have Avery play QB instead of Rob and it made no difference, it might have even hurt them more by doing that. Knowing what I knew before the game I knew this wasn’t going to be close, but deep down I wanted to see Spin Doctors pull it off. Other than Rob and Ryan no one did much in the game. For Manitoboys it was just another day for them on the field. Adam did what he does and puts up points and the defense made their presence felt with 5 picks and returned 1 for a score.

Idaho Udapimps vs Sneaky Snakes (38-0)

This game was called with time still left in the game. I want to know how a team like Sneaky Snakes who people thought would win it all in this division after starting out the season 5-0 went 1-5 after starting down the stretch and were blown out in 4 of those games. Idaho is a good team, but they lacked experience coming into the season and now know the game a little. In this game Brady balled out and showed that even in the rain the deep ball is his go to. Even throwing 6 TDs and picking off 2 balls Brady was still out done by his own teammate who, like Madonna and Prince, only has one name and that name is Harris. This just shows you that when Harris is there you better know where he is on the field at all times.

Top Performances of the Week

With only 10 games being played last week I feel like picking 2 players per division is just a waste and not really cool, so I am going with 1 player per division. This will mean that the player I picked made an impact on both sides of the ball or maybe the key play of the game. When I was thinking about who I should put up here I had a few good players for each division and had to really go in and look at those stats to figure out who earned it the most.

Division 1

I hate to do this and it will make his head even bigger, but this week I have to give Marvin Steinberg a little bit of respect. Big Marv went out and put up below average numbers for him, but was still able to make some plays. Marvin caught 9 passes for a total of 35 yards, yes 35 yards, 3 TDs and the game winning extra point in OT. On defense he managed 3 tackles and 1 pick. Not bad for a guy we all hate, LOL Marvin you know we all love and want you on our team.

Division 2

I hate having to give this award to a QB because normally all they do is play offense and they still need their receivers to make plays. This week Jonathan Plourde made plays in every aspect of the game, with his arm, legs and defense. This wasn’t Jonathan’s best week on the stat sheet and with the weather you can’t blame him. All Jon did was go 16 of 30 for 183 yards, 5 TDs, 2 1point converts as well as 1 2point convert. With his legs he had 37 yards on 6 carries and 1 TD. When he was on for defense, he only made 1 tackle but picked off 2 passes.

Division 3

The best rusher in the division this week showed up and wanted to show everyone he can be a stud on offense as well. Antoine Theroux came this week to play. He grabbed 4 balls for 60 yards, 2 TDs, and a 1point convert. For defense he managed to get 2 tackles and only 1 sack. You probably are wondering why I picked him this week, right. Antoine hauled in the game tying 45-yard TD with 19 seconds left in the game and then in OT caught the convert to win the game for RawSauce. If that isn’t making an impact, then I don’t know what is.

Division 4

This was a relatively easy pick to make. I gave it to a player with no last name. If you read above you know that I’m talking about Harris. He balled out and made huge plays all game or at least until the game was called with 5:18 left. Harris made 5 catches for 123 yard and 4 TDs. The man made not a single tackle on defense this weekend, I guess when you pick off all 3 passes that comes your way you really can’t make any tackles.

There you have it, my top ballers of the week. Next week is the final week of the season, so if your team is still playing and you want to see your name up here you better ball out and win your last game of the season. Good luck to everyone this championship weekend.

Playoff Predictions and All Star Teams

Thursday, November 11th Kevin Kousaie

Predictions

After 9 weeks of the season and 165 picks for Jon and myself and Terry and Will making 155 picks, it was declared that I was the winner of the media picks this season (ed’s note: I picked some non-MFL games as well, mostly Korean baseball, to get the extra 10 picks). It was a rough start to the season for me after week 1 where I only had 46% of my games picked right, but coming down the stretch I was able to finish at 72%. Terry liked to point out that last season he won with 73% of his games correct, which is true, but Terry won last season by 1 game whereas this season I won by a few more.

Last season we did spreads for the playoffs, but this season we are not doing that except for maybe the finals. Here are how the standings finished and then you will see my picks for round 1 of the playoffs, in bold like always.

Division 1

Outlaws vs Gros Coqs

Outlaws have been dominating all season long and that shouldn’t stop this week. I don’t think it will be a completely one-sided game due to weather, but if Outlaws are to lose it will be because of the running from Dom.

Holy Trollers vs Henchmen

I think that the Trollers roster is a little bit better overall and they are the better team. I can see Henchmen falling apart if the game doesn’t start out right for them and it will just go downhill from there.

Division 2

OG Panthers vs Tannantes

I just can’t see how OG will be able to stop or even slow down Phil and it will be a long day for them trying. OG can win this game, but they need the defense to really step up and get some short fields for Charles to work with.

Joey’s Haters vs KOLB

Haters have no chance in this game whatsoever. KOLB have too many players that can make plays at any moment. Haters, just don’t show up and avoid getting rained on all day. At home it’s nice and dry and you can always look back 10 years from now and be like, “what could have been if it was nicer weather out and if we had a better team”.

Division 3

Mustard Tigers vs Jagerbomb

This is a rematch from week 1 where it went to OT. This week it’s not about setting your season up, it’s win or go home. Jagerbomb have the better team from top to bottom and with a few Mustard Tigers no longer on the team, Jagerbomb should win with ease.

Panaches vs RawSauce

I wanted to go Panaches, but then I was looking over the rosters and couldn’t do it. RawSauce have the best player on the field in Yves, they have the better rusher in Antoine, and I would say that Panaches has the better QB, but only because he can run. Normally you’d go with the team with the better QB, well not in this case.

Thunder Buddies vs Blackout

I took the underdog in this game. Last week Blackout didn’t even show up for their game and I hope they come out this week, but even if they do, with the roster Terry put together I can see them winning, but it being tough.

Division 4

Airborne vs Phoenix NA

I don’t pick my team’s games.

Spin Doctors vs Manitoboys

Manitoboys are a solid team and as long as they play decently, they should beat Spin Doctors. Spin Doctors have become a mess over the last few weeks and have decided to move on from Rob at QB and have Avery play this week in the playoffs.

Sneaky Snakes vs Idaho Udapimps

Sneaky Snakes started the season great, but finished like crap and after losing a few players from the roster they aren’t the same team anymore. Idaho is a good team and if they play like they did last week they should be able to pull off the win.

There you have my picks for the week. Let’s remember that this is who I think will win, but it is playoffs and everyone has a chance (ed’s note: except Joey’s Haters, apparently).

Power Rankings

At this point of the year power rankings don’t mean snuffle-bugs, so I am scrapping them for another section that I do every year at this point of the season.

All-Star Team

Here is how it will go. You can only make the All-Star team for 1 position and it must be in you highest division you play. Now let’s see who makes my All-Star team.

Division 1

Offense

QB- Stephen Harripersaud

WR1- Kevin Smuda

Slot1- Phil Pharand

Center- Laurent Foucault

Slot2- Hinsley Adams

WR2- Guillaume Roberts

Defense

Rusher- Felix Bergeron

Corner1- Ariel Librati

Middle- Dilan Daoust

Corner2- Alexander Noel

Saftey1- Marvin Steinberg

Saftey2- Simon-Pierre Laferriere

Division 2

Offense

QB- Michael Roy

WR1- Kerano Johnson

Slot1- Simon Anctil

Center- Frederik Cespedes Dionne

Slot2- Anthony Drysdale

WR2- Dominic Stiplosek

Defense

Rusher- Jonathan Lavoie

Corner1- Tristan Lessard

Middle- Oliver Mathieu

Corner2- David Marcotte

Saftey1- James Langshaw

Saftey2- Justin Salonga

Division 3

Offense

QB- Jason Armenti

WR1- Alex Morin

Slot1- David Brisson

Center- Thomas Znoj

Slot2- Jason Edwards

WR2- Benjamin Denis

Defense

Rusher- Antoine Theroux

Corner1- Thomas Plante

Middle- Jean-Hugues Lefebvre

Corner2- William Plante

Saftey1- Nick Egley

Saftey2- Ryan McSweeny

Division 4

Offense

QB- Adam Gozen

WR1- Julian Sablowski

Slot1- Marco Gavita

Center- Kyle Daniels

Slot2- Marilou Cote Noel

WR2- Simon Dumas

Defense

Rusher- Francis Crevier

Corner1- Felix Lalonde

Middle- Nicolas Poitevin

Corner2- David Michaud

Saftey1- Simon Beaudoin

Saftey2- Brady Ohanessian

There you have it, my 2021 fall season All-Star teams. Congratulations to everyone who made the cut. Just so you know MS, you just made the cut, and it took some convincing to put you up here. It was between you and the air and you won by a 3-2 vote.

Final Thoughts

When I started to write this week article, I was thinking to keep it under 4000 words, well that won’t happen. I will be over by a couple hundred at least, but for the final article of the regular season it isn’t bad.

I’m not sure who watched the Monday night game this week, I only caught bits and pieces of it, and boy do the refs suck. I’m a Packers fan so when the refs were allowing Fields to get hit repeatedly when it should have been a penalty is fine by me, but if that was Brady those flags would have been flying all day long. The best call of the game was the taunting penalty by the Bears for looking at the Steelers sideline while the punt team was coming out. The NFL has become a joke the last few seasons and it doesn’t look to get better any time soon. Its time for the MFL to move their games to Sunday, so Saturday we can watch real football and by that, I mean the NCAA. I know that will never happen since Brossard is Sunday, but it would be nice.

OK enough about that and time for all the playoff teams to be thinking about this week’s game plan. This is also the time where anything can happen, and you need to bring your A game. I know we are playing a game and we are all out to have fun, but now is where taking it easy isn’t acceptable. Go out, bust your ass, and leave it all out on the field and if you’re lucky enough to win, you can play next week and if you lose you know you gave it your all.

Best of luck to everyone playing this week and be prepared for rain and pray for it to be like last week (ed’s note: shouldn’t be much rain!). See you all Saturday.

Word from the Mouth: Someone Call the Po Po 'cause We Just Hung Up a 5-0! edition

Tuesday, November 9th Kevin Kousaie

Folks, we made it to the seasons end. Last fall we got cut after four weeks so we had no champ. The season is over and now the real season is beginning, the playoffs (ed’s note: spoilers!).

I want to say thanks to everyone for making the season what it was. This season we saw a bunch of new teams and a few teams switching up the roster. I’m not sure about everyone else, but I am so glad we moved from Le Ber to Rosemont which actually has grass.

This week it looks like there might be rain over the weekend which means games are going to be sloppy and the earlier you pay the better the field will be. At this point of the year, we can’t really ask for better weather and we can all pray for another 2 weeks of good weather to finish off the season. I personally hate playing in the rain, but will deal with it. I have a few tricks up my sleeve that will help me and my team.

This week we will only have round 1 of the playoffs which means its going to be an early day wrapping up and a little later start. First game will be played at 9:30 and the last game will be over by 3:30. I can’t wait to not get up and leave the house by 6 am. I know this week we will have only 10 games being played, but I can see at least one or two upsets happening.

I missed watching football all weekend, but in both the NCAA and NFL there were a few games that shocked everyone. I also have to wonder what the NCAA is doing with the first week of playoff rankings. How is Cincinnati not in the top 4? (ed’s note: wait, they are.) I agree with Georgia and Alabama, but having Michigan State and Oregon really, both those teams are crap. The PAC 12 is the worst conference out there and when you think Michigan State you think basketball or at least I do. When their playoffs are set, I can see it being Georgia, Alabama, Oklahoma and Cincinnati. This will only happen if Alabama beats Georgia in the SEC championship.

That’s it for now you all want to know which games I picked to cover and what I heard from all the other games this weekend, so here we go.

Weekly Recap

Division 1

Centurions vs Holy Trollers

Game 1 (26-38)

With playoffs on the line, Centurions had a few chances to get in. They need to win one of their two games and Gros Coqs lose or to win both of their games. In the first game of the day, both teams started out by scoring on their first three drives. Some of those scoring drives were because of big plays, but both teams seemed to be ok with working the ball and taking a shot when they had the chance and the player being open. With a minute left in the half the first change of possession happened and it was a punt from the Trollers, this was now the opportunity for Centurions to take the lead and with them starting the second half with the ball, put some separation between the teams. Well, it only took two plays for centurions to give the ball right back on a pick made by Max S. Max was able to punch it in before the half, but failed on the convert. The second half began, and Centurions went in to score and get their convert to hold a 1-point lead 26-25. Max then proceeds to eat up 7 plus minutes on the clock as he led the Trollers back down to score and take the lead. After Trollers scored Centurions tried to rush and get going, but threw their second pick on the day and with Max having a short field to work with he extended the lead and that was it after that Centurions were done.

Game 2 (12-24)

After just playing a game against each other there was going to be no feeling out the other team, it was straight to business. It took Centurions three drives before they were able to reach the end zone and once they did, they narrowed the score down to 12-6. Trollers scored not by the big plays, but by chunk plays all the way down. With the Trollers starting the second half with the ball, Max did something he normally doesn’t do and that was chew the clock. Trollers took almost 9 minutes off the clock while scoring again. At this point it felt like everyone knew the game was over and Centurions were going to be watching the playoffs from home this season. Centurions tried to make it a game by scoring quickly, but then the defense let them down by not being able to get a stop. With the score 24-12 Trollers and just under 7 minutes left no one was able to do much from this point on. Centurions needed to score twice, and Trollers just sat back and didn’t allow anything big and that ended up being the game. Trollers finish with the second seed and knew they would be facing Henchmen in round 1.

Division 2

Outlaws vs Tannantes (38-48)

In a must win game for Outlaws, they came out and screwed the pooch yet again. All season the Outlaws defense has given up play after play and nothing changed this week. The first half was all offense and no defense what so ever. What has been the big problem for Outlaws this season popped back up again in this game. Outlaws scored with 23 seconds on the clock and it looked like the half was going to end 20-21 Tannantes. Vincent had another idea and took 4 plays to go 45 yards and then convert on the convert all that and they still left time on the clock for Outlaws to get a shot, but that fell short. Half score was 28-20 Tannantes. Outlaws started second half and scored right away missed convert and then got a quick 4 and out, but couldn’t capitalize on it and were still down 2 points. It started to go back and forth until Simon picked the ball off and retuned it for a score. At that point the Outlaws pretty much knew it was over and any shot at repeating as D2 champs were gone. Outlaws not in the playoffs, who would have though that going into the season?

OG Panthers vs Vultures (35-18)

Before this game happened, everyone knew it was just for fun and meant nothing to either team. Also, before the game Terry somehow convinced Ben not to run in this game and it wasn’t fair. Terry just eliminated half the offense from Vultures in one little conversation. Once the game began and Ben wasn’t running his team was telling him he needs to, but he said that he wouldn’t and he didn’t run all game. What I didn’t think was cool about this game was that Charles was able to run and he did once for 1 yard. I told Terry that this game needs to become a forfeit since it wasn’t fair that Charles was running all over the place. About midway through the first half, if you saw the speed Terry was firing off the line from his rushing position you would have had to slow the film down just to see him, Oh wait, I meant speed it up. Slowest rush ever. The highlight of this game was when Terry went up the seam and was open and according to him the ball was way too high and uncatchable. Terry looked like he had never caught a ball before as it looked as if he was hugging air. I might not always agree with Jafar, but we both couldn’t stop laughing at him after that. We all know that if Ben played QB all season for Vultures they would have been in playoffs easily.

Division 3

Blackout vs Thunder Buddies (0-25) Forfeit

Ok, so right off the bat, Blackout didn’t show up or at least most of the team didn’t come. Ryan was the only one to show up. I asked Terry what he wanted to do, and he said he wanted to play to get some reps. That was fine by me, but now I had to find 5 players to play with Ryan. It wasn’t hard and I had 4 players from KOLB in D2 and Manu from D4 to play. Once it was arranged, Jafar decided he wasn’t going to play. Luckily for Terry, Vultures showed up early and Ben and his center decided to play with them. They were only going to play half, so with under a minute left Terry asked to me to allow him to finish his drive so I stopped the clock every play and they scored got the 2point convert, but still lost by 2 points. In this game Terry looked good on a few deep throws that none were caught. I know Nick dropped one and so did Dave, if I remember correctly, and they both were surprised the ball got there with such a good spiral on the ball and not hanging up in the air. Both probably should have caught the ball or at least Nick should have.

Mustard Tigers vs Panaches (25-26) OT

Both these team were in the playoffs before it began, and it was just a matter of where they would finish. I’m not sure how, but Mustard Tigers jumped out to a 12-0 lead and looked like they were just going to cruise for the win. Felix and Panaches had other plans. They were able to fight back and take the lead 13-12 going into half. Second half began and Panaches started with the ball went down and scored fast and it stayed that way for a while. Mustard Tigers scored with under 7 minutes left, but failed on the convert. Panaches scored once they got the ball and here is where it gets questionable. Why go for 1 when you’re up 7 instead of going for 2 to make it a 2-score game? (ed’s note: to make it a one score game with a 2-point conversion requirement to tie. It all depends on how confident you are in your 1 and 2-point convert plays) It’s not like Panaches are inexperienced, but you need to know these things. Panaches got it to make take an 8-point lead. Brian had 1:46 on the clock and needed to score and get the 2 point convert just to force OT. Brian was able to get it done and left just seconds on the clock for Panaches. They went to OT and Felix led Panaches to score with their first possession and Mustard Tigers who used all their luck on scoring to tie the game just couldn’t get it done and lost the game.

Division 4

Phoenix vs Drama Club (50-25)

This game meant more to Drama Club then it did for Phoenix. Drama Club need to win and get help to make playoffs, where Phoenix were in and just battling for placement. Phoenix jumped out to a 12-0 lead before Drama Club woke up. Nico led them on a drive that was 2 plays and got help from a blown coverage. Then Vezina picked the ball off and ran it back to tie the game. Nico got the convert. I was asked by Manu if he could take a shot at QB and he marched the field, but we couldn’t score. Drama Club did nothing with their last possession before half. Second half began and that’s when it fell apart for Drama Club. Nico threw 3 or 4 picks back-to-back to start the second half and that’s what cost them any shot at the win. Simon was talking a lot of crap about me getting replaced as a QB, but that wasn’t the case as I allowed the other players to take a shot at it and they all ended up throwing a TD pass as well. Second half Phoenix went out had some fun and just played relaxed. At the end of the day with the win and fewer points given up Phoenix was able to finish second in the division.

Idaho Udapimps vs Manitoboys (30-32)

This was the most intriguing game of the weekend from my standpoint. I needed Manitoboys to win, but it didn’t look like it was going to get done. Idaho jumped up 14 points and looked like they were going to run away with it. Adam brought his team back and made it 14 all very quickly and right after tying it up Brady was able to hit Kyle on a deep throw down the sideline and as he hauls it in the trailing defender missed the flag and Kyle walked in for a 45-yard score. This is where it should have been over. Adam was sacked by James for the safety. Now the score is 23-20 with 1:28 left, but Brady threw a pick to Marco on his second pass. This gave Adam a short field and a chance to make it a closer game. Manitoboys scored and made it 23-20 Idaho at half. The second half started, and the game was all Manitoboys from here on out. Adam took his team to score on the opening possession of the half and never looked back after that. This was the first time I saw Simon play for Manitoboys and he is an absolute beast.

There you have it the final week of the season recap and the last time a few teams will get any coverage until next season.

Top Performances of the Week

Last chance for some players to make my list. This past week we had great weather for the first week of November. A bunch of you balled out this week and won you game as well, but for teams who needed to win if you put the team on your back and made it happen, you’re getting bonus points towards making my list and if you lost you most likely you won’t see your name up here. Here are this week’s winners.

Division 1

Offense

I had a few players to choose from, but I came to the conclusion that even with Max Rosenfeld playing 2 games that he need to be given this weeks pick. Max went 57 of 77 for 444 yards, 10 TDs, threw 1 pick and had 2 1point convert. Max also ran twice for 5 yards (ed’s note: I dream of rushing numbers like that).

Defense

I would normally be giving this player love for his offense, but this week Gros Coqs had Dom Lefort play rusher and he finished the day with 3 tackles that just happened to be all sacks. Someone mentioned to me that if Dom continued to rush all game that Gros Coqs were going to win, and they did.

Division 2

Two-Way Player

People hate blowout and so do I, but when you bust your ass wearing a pink shirt you get some love. Kerano Johnson made everyone on the field this week look like they were children. KJ only made 7 catches for 96 yards and a total of 5 TDs. Well on defense this man made 5 tackles to go along with his 4 interceptions and KJ also took one of his picks back for a TD. When you play like that and looked that good doing it, you’re going to get my nod.

Division 3

Offense

It was a hard choice to make this week but it came down to putting the team on your back and stepping up when he needed to, that is why this week’s winner is Jeremy Trudel. Jeremy had 5 catches for 89 yard, 2 TDs and 2 1point converts. He was also the person who scored the game winning convert in OT.

Defense

This week was really hard to pick a winner since so many of you guys play in higher divisions. This is the first time I see this player balling out, but I’m sure it won’t be the last time someone says Pengyi Liaos name. Pengyi made 2 tackles and both of them were sacks.

Division 4

Offense

I picked this player after seeing him play for the first time this week and I have been told that he is a beast by a few of his teammates. Simon Dumas played twice this week and made a big impact in both games. Simon made 14 catches for 162 yards, 4 TDs and 1 1point convert. Simon is tall, fast and you can’t miss him on the field.

Defense

The player I went with here is a player that was added to my teams roster a few weeks ago to replace a player that won’t be able to make it for playoffs. If I had known that Manu Allard-Roy was such a baller I would have added him weeks ago. This week Manu made 1 tackle and had 2 picks he was also able to take one of them back for 6 points.

There you have it my picks for this week. I’m sure next week everyone will be balling out which will make me make these picks even harder and lets all remember next week if you lose your season is over.

Predictions and Power Rankings Week 8

Thursday, November 4th Kevin Kousaie

Predictions

Going into the last week of the season it is a tight race for the top spot between Terry and myself. For the first time in a few weeks, I wasn’t the winner. This past week Jon stole the show. It seems too late for him to take the title, but he should be able to beat Will and not finish last. Here are the standings going into the last week of the season, followed by my picks in bold like always.

Division 1

Centurions vs Holy Trollers

They have the stronger roster and the better QB.

Centurions vs Holy Trollers

They have the stronger roster and the better QB.

Henchmen vs Gros Coqs

Gros Coqs haven’t had a complete team the last few weeks so I expect the same this week, plus Henchmen are a good team with a very strong roster.

Outlaws vs Honor Game

After the beating Outlaws gave to them last week expect to see the same this time as well.

Division 2

Redzone vs D#Nasty

Mike will have this team ready to go as they gear up for what could be a long playoff run.

D#Nasty vs KOLB

KOLB have too many weapons that D#Nasty won’t be able to keep up with.

Outlaws vs Tannantes NA

I don’t pick my teams games.

Vultures vs Joey’s Haters

I just can’t see the Haters being able to keep up with all the athletic players on Vultures, plus who is going to stop Ben from running wild on them?

Iron Wolves vs RedZone

In the battle for first place and an easier shot at reaching the finals I think Jon finds a way to pull this off.

OG Panthers vs Vultures

This was the hardest pick for me to make in the division, but I went with the team that I feel has the better QB and that is Ben.

Division 3

Mustard Tigers vs Panaches

I’m not sure why I am taking Mustard Tigers. I just have a feeling that they get it done, plus I think their offense is a tad better and doesn’t need big plays as much. (ed’s note: then you do know why you’re taking them…)

Average Joes vs Iron Wolves

If Jason is smart with the ball and avoids Marvin as much as possible then they should win.

Blackout vs Thunder Buddies

They are a bit too strong for Thunder Buddies to deal with and I can’t see how they should lose this game.

Panaches vs RawSauce

RawSauce has been slipping these last few weeks and this week they get back on track if their QB shows up.

Jagerbomb vs Flamboyant Flamingos

Jagerbomb is a very good team and this week they will beat up the Flamingos and it shouldn’t even be close.

Chiefs vs Petits Phoques

I will go with Chiefs because this season Petit Phoques have been a complete mess with players missing and not having a steady QB.

Average Joes vs Flamboyant Flamingos

Average Joes continue their perfect season with a win that will keep the train rolling into the playoffs.

Division 4

Idaho Udapimps vs Manitoboys

I have played both teams and I just feel that Manitoboys are a little bit better as a team.

Spin Doctors vs Gold Rush

Spin Doctors with all the new additions have to be able to pull this one off.

Manitoboys vs Sneaky Snakes

With the players that Sneaky Snakes have lost over the course of the season it will be too much for them to overcome in this game.

Bines vs Spin Doctors

They are the top team for a reason. They will walk all over Spin Doctors this week.

Drama Club vs Phoenix NA

I don’t pick my teams games.

Gold Rush vs Airborne

They are the better team and have the better QB plus Guillaume finds a way to squeak into the playoffs.

Mimosa Crew vs Idaho Udapimps

This is a horrible matchup for Mimosa. Idaho has too many good athletes that Mimosa won’t be able to stop.

There you have my picks for the week and I hope it will be enough to get the overall title and the money that the media team bet. If you all want to help me win, just check above and if you are picked to win get it done and if I picked you to lose you can always phone it in or not even show up. Good luck to everyone this week.

Power Rankings

This week we had a few games that affected the rankings. This will also be the last rankings of the season since no one cares about where they are once playoffs start and anything can happen then. Ill post my rankings with an explanation at the end.

Division 1

1) Outlaws

2) Holy Trollers

3) Henchmen

Division 2

1) Iron Wolves (ed’s note: wat?!?)

2) RedZone

3) KOLB

Division 3

1) Average Joes

2) Blackout

3) Jagerbomb

Division 4

1) Bines

2) Idaho Udapimps

3) Phoenix

D1- Must stay the same as those are the best teams and in that order.

D2- I just flipped 1 and 2 around, but I was very close to putting a team with a losing record up on my list this week.

D3- Right now those are the best teams with Mustard Tigers being a very close fourth.

D4- After Manitoboys lost this week to Phoenix, I kicked them off the list and moved up Idaho Udapimps to number 2 and inserted Phoenix at number 3. You might want to argue that Phoenix got beat up by Bines in their match up, but if you ignore the first 5 minutes of that game Phoenix would have won. (ed’s note: I always say if you just ignore each individual second where the opposing team scored, we would have won)

There you have my final rankings on the season. I know it’s not perfect, but this is how I see it and with the season over there is no way to prove your team needed to be up here on my list.

Final Thoughts

We have made it to the last week of the season and a few might be able to finish undefeated. Does it really matter if you went undefeated if you don’t win it all? I think not. Playoffs are a different game where anything can happen. It is starting to get colder out, but this week it looks to be nicer out, but you never know, it’s only Tuesday right now. I hope that everyone didn’t go to crazy eating all the Halloween candy they could get their hands on. I know I didn’t. (ed’s note: Good for you. Good for you.)

This week was the trade deadline in the NFL and two teams made big moves. The Rams picked up Von Miller from Denver for next to nothing and then the Chiefs went and got Melvin Ingram from Pittsburg. Both those trades should help both teams who acquired pass rushers. If you could make one trade in your division who would you want and what would you be willing to give up? For me I’m not trading anyone off my team for no one. (ed’s note: yes, generally you should make trades for someone) I like my team and making a trade now would just ruin the chemistry that we have built over the season.

It’s the last week of season and a bunch of teams are fighting for those few spots left, but let’s not forget that we are playing a game and here to have fun. Go out and play hard, have fun, and at the end of the day see if you did enough to play the following week.

Word from the Mouth: Dancing in the Dark! edition

Wednesday, November 3rd Kevin Kousaie

This week was Halloween and I hope everyone with young children took them out and that they had fun and got lots of candy.

It looks like the MFL has found a new home at Rosemont College for the remainder of the season. This week we played two games there and 2 games across the street at Sainte-Bernadette. The only issue we had with the two locations was players having games at one field and then having to walk over to the other field, it was the same with the refs.

This week we will have all four at the college.

This was also the first time that we played a game in the dark or at least with very poor lighting (ed’s note: it was actually a really fun game!). That was the only time it will happen as this week we have a full schedule of games starting at 8am and last game at 330pm. We should be done by 5pm and home by 630 at the latest or at least I will be. (ed’s note: this is very useful information for people who are stalking Kevin and useless information for anyone else)

Another thing that needs to be brought up is that captains need to do a better job with their rosters and who is eligible to play and who isn’t. Just because the player is on your roster doesn’t mean they can play in any game. We ended up having a few teams that won games, but broke the rules and had their games overturned and now that win is a loss. I know it doesn’t seem like a big deal, but with teams all battling for the playoffs, teams shouldn’t be getting an advantage.

Initially it was supposed to rain all day this past Saturday and it only drizzled for a few moments, which was great for Saturday games. Sunday wasn’t the same. I had a game in the morning then headed over to Brossard for the finals. Let me tell you being the third ref and having to stand in the field of play wasn’t pretty, I stood in two to three inches of water all game long (ed’s note: it was worse on the sidelines, ya big baby). The best thing about being there on Sunday was seeing Nico doing his best ballerina impersonation, it was great making the rusher slide right by him and then completing the pass.

Weekly Recap

Division 1

Holy Trollers vs Gros Coqs (39-15)

This was supposed to be a great game on paper with all the history between them. Both teams stated out well exchanging scores on their first possessions and then it slowly fell apart for Gros Coqs, who again were only 3 or 4 roster players. After both teams had the ball Trollers started to pull away and nothing Gros Coqs did seemed to work. We did a quick half and it looked like Gros Coqs talked and figured out how to move the ball and scoring to open up the second half. Trollers were like, ok you scored, and they went down and punched it in again to take a 33-15 lead. At this point the game was all but over for Gros Coqs, they weren’t able to get a stop on defense. On the next possession Dom ended up throwing a pick to Phil who ran it in for a score and then Gros Coqs called the game with 10:30 left. I know Trollers weren’t happy about that, since they wanted to practice more (run up score and get stats). As a player I wouldn’t be too happy about it either, but really the game was already over, and Dom had somewhere to be right after the game so I don’t blame them for ending it. Not cool, but I understand why.

Division 2

D#Nasty vs Tannantes (32-54)

This game was all offense very little defense. Tannantes had a QB subbing this week and he was very good. He made a throw where Phil was covered tight and he placed the ball low and inside and Phil running full sped in stride reaches out and grabs the ball as he goes the rest of the way for the score. I look at defender, he looks at me and I go next time be closer to him and by that, I mean all over him. The defender had no chance at that ball or even trying to defend it. I asked Fred after that throw where he had played before and he told me a bunch of places and the Carabins were one of those places, but he added that he was the backup QB only. That wasn’t his only amazing throw of the day as he hit Simon on a deep route that was between two defenders and Simon only needed to put his hands up as the ball hit him perfectly and looked like a hard catch, but Simon said he made no adjustments the ball was just there. Any other week D#Nasty wins this game. Everyone on the team played lights out on offense, on defense they could have played a little better a few dropped picks, but really it was a good game for D#Nasty even though they lost.

Vultures vs Redzone (43-32)

I know very little about this game, but from what I heard it was poor converts from Redzone and the pick before half and then the score on last play of half from Vultures was what decided the game. When I was picking up after their game, I asked Ben if they won and he looks at me and goes what kind of question is that. Then said to ask him a real question, of course they won. For the last few weeks Vultures have been giving teams trouble and are now in a position to make a run in the playoffs.

Division 3

RawSauce vs Mustard Tigers (19-25)

I was playing at the same time as this game and I only saw a few things from it. RawSauce were without their QB so Alexander stepped in and did a decent job. I also want to know how Antoine made the catch along the sideline and fully extended out of bounds and was able to keep his feet in. I tried to remind Antoine that rushers aren’t supposed to have hands like that. Last thing about RawSauce, how or why was Yves on the bench for what seemed like half the game? For Mustard Tigers how are you going to replace Jie since he is done for the season to allow his injuries to heal up? I wonder if that is what Mustard Tigers are telling me or did Jie enjoy Ottawa so much he decided to stay for an extended period of time.

Iron Wolves vs Flamboyant Flamingos (19-20)

Let me start by saying we all hope that Chris heals up fast and that you didn’t get hurt too badly. Also, this was the first time we played a late game with no lights. Jon didn’t throw and he let Iggy take a shot and Iggy did a good job, ball placement was nice, he had good zip on the ball and made good reads. Flamingos were playing for Chris after he got hurt and every time they made a play they would scream this is for Chris. I didn’t see many big plays or memorable plays from the first half and once the second half started it was getting dark and everything was short, and teams had to drive the field to score. After surrendering the lead with 2 minutes left Iron Wolves had the ball with a chance to go down and win the game. Iron wolves got the ball all the way into the red zone with time for two plays the first one was knocked away by Brandon and on the last play Iggy threw it up to Marvin running a corner route. Marvin went up and came down with his toes on the line. I know I might bust Marvin’s balls all the time, but the guy has some great hand eye coordination. How was he even able to see that ball coming in yet alone catch it. If I had just rounded off the back goal line, he would have been the hero, and everyone would have carried I’m off on their shoulders. I know for that to happen we would have needed the fans to be chanting “Marvin, Marvin” so he could feel like Rudy.

Division 4

Phoenix vs Manitoboys (26-25) OT

This ended up being a great game, but it didn’t start that way. At least not for Phoenix. I threw a pick on Phoenix’s first possession right into the hands of Richie rich. Manitoboys were able to score easily with the short field. That was all the offense or at least scoring from Manitoboys in the first half. I was able to lead Phoenix on scoring drives their next two possessions. Manitoboys got very lucky right before half when I beat their rusher, rolled to the left, was about to take off running and saw one of my teammates open and when I threw it, I didn’t put it outside enough and Adam came over and made a pick. Everyone knows if that ball was outside another two feet it was a TD (ed’s note: many passes, if in different locations from where they were, would be TDs. That’s science). At half it was a 13-7 game. With Manitoboys starting the second half with the ball, both teams exchanged scores, but it was two to one for them making it 19 all. Manitoboys had the lead with 3:25 left in the game and now it was time to see if Phoenix could march down and score to tie and get the convert to win. I hit Vince on a deep route where made someone miss and thought he was just going to walk in and score easily, but speedy jogged and was caught a few yards short. At the time I thought it was a good thing so I could waste more time, but worried we wouldn’t score as well. We scored on the next play and missed on the convert. Manitoboys had a few plays, but they were 2 incompletes followed by an interception by Julien with enough time for two plays. I took two shots at the end zone first was incomplete and the second was a pick in the end zone. We go to OT. It was a few times of back and forth before I was able to hit Manu for the game winning score. I’m glad that the few calls that might have been iffy and took 8 points off the board for Phoenix didn’t cost us the game.

Phoenix vs Bines (20-39)

This is going to be short and right to the point. This game was over 5 minutes into it. I threw 3 of 4 picks right away and the score was 27-0 at that point. After the horrible start the game was pretty even after that. Bines are a really good team, but they are beatable. I also missed a few throws that would have put points on the board and I also know Simon plans on trying to steal that play from me. At half I told my team we just need to go out and win the second half and we did. I would like to play them again and hope for a better start.

Spin Doctors vs Airborne (18-19)

This wasn’t the type of game you want to be your first game under center. With Raph gone, Rob was given the reins. He did good in leading his team to an 18-6 half time lead. Second half didn’t go as well. Neither team could do much until Airborne scored with just over 5 minutes left to make it 18-12. With Rob marching Spin Doctors to score and seal the game he was picked off by Jeremy with 2 minutes left and gave Guillaume a chance to win the game. Guillaume was able to find Greg for the score with zero on the clock. Convert would be last play as Guillaume found Isaac for the game winning convert. Spin Doctors had 5 picks off Guillaume, but the one they missed was the one that cost them the game. From what I heard on the TD the ball went through the hands of Ryan who in the game had 3 TDs and 2 picks. Yes, Ryan balled out, but couldn’t make the play when it mattered.

There you have my recaps for this week.

Top Performances of the Week

With the move to the new location and the fields having grass, a lot of people were able to make cuts and dance around players. I had a few hard choices to make this week, but managed to pick out most of the studs this week. I know no matter what I do, unless I picked you then you will be upset, but here we go with who I know balled out and earned their spot on my list.

Division 1

Offense

I almost made this a two-way player award then I went back and looked over the stats and made up my mind that not Giving Yves Dejardins respect would be foolish. Yves only made 5 catches but had 136 yards, 4 TDs and 1 1point convert.

Defense

This person might not be a household name but after you set the singe game interception record in one game everyone will know who Ariel Librati is. Ariel played two games this week and managed to make 13 tackles and had 6 picks, 5 of them were in one game.

Division 2

It was hard to pick here with players playing multiple games and teams only winning one of those two games, but I managed to pick players that I felt balled out enough to be recognized here for the division.

Offense

This person might not have the big name or the flashy stats, but this week he showed that he shouldn’t be overlooked. David Marcotte played twice this week and all he did was haul in 8 balls for 149 yards, 4 TDs and 4 1point converts.

Defense

It was hard to pick a player for this week on defense. No one had jaw dropping stats and a bunch of players had two games and went one and one. I was able to narrow it down to one person and that was Alexandre Vallieres. Alexandre played two games and managed to get 5 tackles which were all sacks.

Division 3

Offense

This player helped his team win both their games and has given his team a shot at making the playoffs going into the last week of the season. Alex Morin is someone everyone in the lower divisions know and fear even his own team now. This week Alex had 15 catches for 177 yards, 2 TDs and 1 2point convert.

Defense

It’s very rare when a player does what Anthony Hotte-Mateo did this week. Anthony racked up 3 tackles, 2 sacks and a pick. When was the last time a rusher made a sack and had a pick in the same game? I couldn’t tell you.

Division 4

Offense

This player has dealt with injuries all season long, but when its time to make plays and fight for that final playoff spot Curren Dewan shows ups. Curren didn’t put up great number maybe not even good numbers, but he did what it took to get the win. Curren was 11 of 30 for 132 yards, 3 TDs and a 1point convert. He also ran 9 times for a total of 49 yards and 1 TD.

Defense

This pick is a player that has been in the league for years and is considered 1 of the better rushers. Greg D’Alesio grabbed 5 flags and had 3 sacks on the day. Greg was able to show up today and help his team try to get that last playoff spot in the division.

There you have my picks for the week. With the last week of the season next week, it will be the last chance for some players to see their names up here on my list. You all know what you must do to make my list, win your game, ball out and you might see your name up above next week.

	Teams	GP	W	L	D	PTS
1	OUT	0	0	0	0	0
2	IW	0	0	0	0	0
3	BSH	0	0	0	0	0
4	ATM	0	0	0	0	0
5	CHF	0	0	0	0	0