Word from the Mouth: Week 2 In The Books

Word from the Mouth: Week 2 In The Books

Kevin Kousaie

Another week went by and what a beautiful day it was. We had lovely weather and no Jon. We will continue to do flag checks every week along with pocket checks. You guys need to be aware that a shirt not tucked into your shorts and covering your flags makes you touch and also prevents you from getting a holding call against you. Most of you have been around for a while and need to let your less experienced players know this. I know it might sound like a dumb rule, but it is one we all need to follow. We had a few really good games this week and we should have a few more this weekend. We are back to using 3 fields again so that means that games start at 9:30 like always, but will be done by 3:30. We are also looking into a way to fix up the field a little so that the middle isn’t so torn up. I’ll keep you all posted on that. 

 

Week 2 Recap 

Division 1 

Bitter Boys vs Revolucion (28-58)

Last week Revolucion got smoked and this week they did the smoking. This game was one sided from the start and not very fun to watch. Bitter Boys dropped a few balls that they should have caught. They also need to find a solid rusher as that would make a big difference for them as a team. New captain Gabe had found a new person to play QB for them this season, but that guy bailed before the season started and after his week 1 performance Raph is claiming to be hurt and is taking the rest of the season off (ed’s note: maybe). So Gabe did what he needed to and brought in Michael Roy (Div 2 QB of the Year, Top Rookie, & league MVP) to come fill in. What a job he did with 9 TD passes. This now gives Revolucion a legitimate chance at winning, that is if they can keep it up.

 

 

Outlaws vs Trollers (33-46)

This game was closer than what the score will tell you. It was a fight for both teams. I want to point out that Smuda wasn’t there so in my opinion the win doesn’t mean as much. Carmelo did a nice job of replacing him, but he ain’t Smuda. Outlaws couldn’t figure a way to stop the Trollers offense. JC went off with a spectacular game and 4 TDs. Ben was able to get behind the defense all day. I also will point out that Josh should have ended the game with 3 picks, that might have made the game more lopsided, except all day he wasn’t able to hold on to the ball whether it was on offense or defense. These teams will meet again and I expect it to be another tight game.

 

Division 2   

Raccoons vs Petit Phoques (15-16) OT

I want to say that Raccoons were without their starting QB Seb, but Phillipe did a good job of filling in. Raccoons were outplayed in this game and the only thing that saved them was the outstanding defense they played. Speaking of defense this game was won on a pick 1 in Overtime. I think that Petit Phoques will be a very difficult team to matchup against since most of them are division 1 players. I really feel that the league needs to step in and make a rule as to how many of them can be on the field at once (ed’s note: we are literally making this rule! We discussed it at the committee meeting!). Yes I understand that Vince is throwing and is new at the position, but when you look at the players he has all he needs to do is throw it 1 yard to almost anyone on the roster and they can score from anywhere. Jon look into and enforce a new rule, we all know how you’re not a fan of the young guys.

 

D#Nasty vs Centurions (25-14)

I said it last week that they were coming for revenge and it looks like they got it. I know a season win isn’t the same as a win in the playoffs, but you need to win in the season to get into the playoffs. That was a big win for D#Nasty since a loss would have put them at 0-2 on the season. So for how good Centurions defense was last season they weren’t able to get a stop with 2 minutes left in the game right after they took the lead. The pick 6 on last play doesn’t mean anything except stats as the game was already over at that point.

 

 

Joey’s Haters vs Space apes (19-25)

Joey and his handpicked players should have walked all over Space Apes from what it looks like on paper, but they will need time to gel. Space Apes are off to a good start of the season and if Charles can play this well all season they will be a really hard team to beat. Nick seems to be rushing for them which is fine since it’s very unlikely that he will ever be called for roughing the passer, he needs to ask Terry from Space Apes for a few pointers on how to be a more efficient rusher. Terry had 4 (ed’s note: 4 what?) on Saturday and probably led to a few bad passes from Steve.

 

Nice TDs vs Old School (39-6)

Nice TDs put an old school beating on Old School like they stole their lunch money or something. Old School needs to find a more efficient offense. Dahic can’t run every play. They need to catch and hold on to the ball, this was a problem last season and it looks like it has carried over to this one. Nice TDs looks to be unstoppable at this point. Demario has looked too good after 2 games to be allowed to throw in division 2. He might be the best player in the entire division. Andrew did what he normally does and that is dominate. They were without Kris today so that will be another weapon for them once he is back (ed’s note: I believe he’s off the team). The thing with Nice TDs is can they keep their composure all season.

 

Deep Threats vs Dawgs (41-18)

This was a game that before it happened I figured that it was just going to be deep balls all game. It looks like JC might have finally realized that you don’t need to go deep on every play. He was throwing short consistently and once in a while would let it rip. This was the best game I have ever seen the Deep Threats play. It was a complete game. Dawgs were without their main man Max. Without Max being there Dave had to hold the ball an extra second or make multiple reads to find someone, Max is there and he hits him on every second play and they move the ball better. Dave did a nice job of not turning the ball over, when you are forced to punt as much as they were the score was going to get out of hand especially since you weren’t getting stops.

 

Division 3 

Gold Rush vs Beautes (29-27)

So I will say that Max, who is a division 1 QB, was throwing for Gold Rush which normally isn’t allowed except it was authorized by the league so that is that. I will also say that Max played horribly and he threw 3 picks and was sacked once for a safety. Travis killed it again this week with 3 TDs, 3 Picks, 3 sacks and a safety. Will anyone be able to stop him? At this point in the season he has to be the front runner for MVP. Brian is learning to play QB and should get better. A few pointers spread the ball around more and run a little less. You had 17 completions and only 3 players with catches you were a full roster. I feel like Beautes will get better with time and that Gold Rush might take a step back once their regular QB is back, I might be wrong but probably not.

 

Thunder Buddies vs Mustard Tigers (31-27)

Mustard Tigers got a great performance from Marilou and from Tom, so that should make Brian happy. Brian will still need to find a third player to step up if they want to start winning. Thunder Buddies will be fine once they work out a few kinks. Last year Terry was able to depend on Dave so losing him is a big loss, that was until he convinced Charles to come play with them. Charles might not be the same type of player as Dave, but in this division he is a good replacement. I’m just not sure who is calling defense for Thunder Buddies, but they will need to figure that out. This was a tough game for both teams and I can see this being a possible finals.

 

Picks & Why 

Division 1

Trollers vs Bitter Boys NA

After last weeks embarrassing loss Bitter Boys are going to look to rebound in a big way. Last season these teams only meet once and it was a very close game and I expect the same this week. 

Revolucion vs 4Simbas

So with the two new additions to the roster Revolucion finally looks like they will be able to compete in division 1. I think this will come down to a few plays and since I feel that Revolcuion is a calmer team they will be able to handle the adversity where it will tear 4Simba apart.

Henchmen vs Revolucion

I think Revolucion might be able to pull it off but after playing in the game right before I think they could be a little tired. I also don’t think Henchmen have a full roster yet so Jon might try and sneak a few studs onto his team.

 

Division 2 

Old School vs D#Nasty 

This one is simple: the roster of D#Nasty is better from top to bottom plus I think Kevin is a better QB than Dahic or at least his receivers are better.

Iron Wolves vs Nice TDs

All I have to say is Demario is better than every player on Iron Wolves. So if he wants to run he will, if he wants to pass it he’ll find the open receiver. Have fun trying to stop him. Suggestion, change the game time to 9:30 and don’t tell him then you might have a chance.

Joey’s Haters vs Deep Threats

So knowing that Max isn’t going to be there I figure it will be a long day trying to figure out how to stop Svetna. That is if he shows up. It should still be a close game. If Svetna doesn’t show up Joey’s Haters should walk all over Deep Threats.

Space Apes vs Deep Threats

Space Apes have been playing together for a while now so they know each other better and that will help them in this one. Charles will need to play well and keep the ball away from Svetna.

Petit Phoques vs Dawgs

They have way too many weapons and unless Jon is going to step in and put some restrictions on how many of the Gros Coqs are allowed on the field at once then they will walk all over Dawgs.

Division 3

Beautes vs Mustard Tigers

I feel that experience will win out in this one. I also think that Marilou will be able to stop Brian from running and force him into some bad passes. 

Thunder Buddies vs Professional Punters 

This is a perfect game for Thunder Buddies to try a few new things and see what can work for them. I also have to say with a name like Professional Punters you’re going to be punting a lot so you won’t be scoring many points. (ed’s note: I think that’s the joke…)

 

Power Rankings 

Division 1

#1- Outlaws

#2- Trollers 

#3- Revolucion (ed’s note: what world is this?!?)

Division 2

#1- Nice TDs

#2- Petits Phoques

#3- Space Apes 

Division 3

#1- Gold Rush 

#2- Thunder Buddies 

#3- Beautes

So those are my top 3 right now. With a few big games this week and teams taking the week off who knows where your team will be after this week. I know I’m going to get some grief from some of my Troller teammates about not being #1. Yes we beat the Outlaws, but they were without Smuda so to me that doesn’t count. 

Player of the Week sponsored by Les Spiritueux Iberville You can follow them on Facebook @spiritueuxiberville and on Insta @spiritueuxiberville Great alcohol with a great taste by one of MFL’s own Mario D’Amico. Help support a local business, go follow them and go pick up a bottle or two from the SAQ.

Now it is time for me to pick 1 player from each division who put up some great numbers and helped their team win. 

Division 1

- Michael Roy from Revolucion. In his first game with the team he went out and dominated Bitter Boys. Throwing for 9 TDs and 318 yards and he ran for 43 yards as well. 

Division 2 

- In his first game Back JC was able to do something I never thought was possible: not throwing it deep on every play. JC was almost perfect on the day going 20 of 24 for 147 yards and 5 TDs with no picks. He also contributed on defense with 3 tackles and 1 pick.

Division 3

- Travis from Gold Rush was a 1 man wrecking crew on Saturday. He had 6 catches for 99 yards, 3 TDs and 2 converts. For some people that is a great day, but oh wait, there is more. His defensive numbers are off the wall as well, 9 Tackles, 3 sacks and 3 picks.

All 3 of the players chosen are well deserving of a Bottle of alcohol from our sponsor Les Spiritueux Iberville, but we can only have 1 winner and that winner is Michael Roy from Revolucion. So Michael come see me before or after your game and as long as I remember to contact Mario on Friday I will have a bottle of Alcohol for you. You can share it with your teammates or take it home and do whatever you want with it.

Q - How was it out there playing with a bunch on new guys for the first time?

A – It was great, at the D1 level, it’s usually not hard to have instant chemistry based on the talent. The guys know how to run a route, and read the defense.

Q – Are you going to be the saviour for Revolucion and get them into the playoffs and possibly their first ever title? 

A – First and foremost, it’s a team effort. I call the plays, the WR run the routes. It’s up to all of us to be on the same page. I’d say our season is looking up. Our goal is to make the playoffs, and from there, anything can happen.

Q – I know you play in another league with a field that is wider than ours how have you adjusted to the narrower field?

A – To be transparent, I don’t notice it much. Maybe just in the end zones. Other than that, it’s not much of a difference. If anything, it’s a bit harder as there isn’t as much room on the field compared to the other league.

Q – Since you’re a QB let me ask you what is more important: arm strength, technique, or brains?

A – Well essentially, having the mind to read a defense and make adjustments is the number one factor. In all my years playing this sport, some of the best QB’s didn’t have the greatest arm of the fastest feet. Of course having those things as well will set you way apart from the rest.

Q – Since you’re the most ripped guy in the league, is it possible that you keep your shirt on its making the rest of us look bad? I almost had to go out and join a gym.

A – Lol, actually Shawn Haney is a bit more ripped than me! I take off my shirt to get some sun, that’s the reason. Otherwise I’d be shirtless for games too!!!!

 

Final Thoughts 

That is it for my article this week, I hope you all enjoyed it. I’m sure some of you did and others are like “what is this crap”. Just because you didn’t make my top 3 or weren’t chosen to be player of the week this should just motivate you to play harder and make more plays. Anyone who doesn’t like it just needs to suck it up a deal with it. Remember we are all out here to play and have fun. So play hard, be safe, and have fun, we all have work or go to school on Monday. Well not this week since it is labor day so everyone enjoy your long weekend.

 

Word from the Mouth: Week 1 Recap

Word from the Mouth: Week 1 Recap

Kevin Kousaie

Week 1 went off without any problems. That was expected since all the officials are top notch. Moving forward captains are needed to go to scorekeeper and let them know who is there and who isn’t along with correct jersey numbers. They will also need to have their team line up for pocket and flag checks before the game starts. As a player you are required to tuck you shirt into your shorts, if your shirt is covering the flags in any way you will be down when someone reaches for you. (ed’s note: Also note that if your shirt is not tucked in holding calls will not be called against any player grabbing the shirt!)

 

This is just one of those rules that we are going to start enforcing going forward. On another league note we will be adding player ratings and a hard team cap at some point. It might not be in full swing this season but it will be by next spring. Right now we only have a 1-5 rating system for the player overall, eventually I’d like to see one for offense, defense, and QB. This way when you are looking to add players you can specify look for the best player that will meet your team cap. I know we might be far from that, but we will get there. When the league first started we were only 6 teams (ed’s note: 4 teams!) in 1 division, now we are 22 teams across 3 divisions (ed’s note: and we were 26 in the spring!), oh and we have 6 teams out in our Brossard league. So you can see that we are growing and getting a better game than when we started. I hope to see us get to at least 50 teams one day, with all of you bringing 1 or 2 guys a year we can be there in no time.

 

Week 1 Recap 

 

Division 1

Outlaws vs Revolucion (55-18)

So this one wasn’t a game as La Revolucion got beat like there was no tomorrow. Revolucion was supposed to have someone new throwing for them this season then the person couldn’t commit, so they ended up going back to Raph. I have a good joke for everyone, I asked Raph after their game when they were practicing if I found them a QB would he want him and Raph asked me who and I told him Michael Roy from Red Raiders and his response was I’m better than him you need to give me more respect than that. I then had to walk away.

 

Henchmen vs Bitter Boys (39-28)

This game was a showcase of two players, one being Demario for Henchmen and the other being Guillaume for Bitter Boys. Everyone else played poorly. Patrick had a decent game and Kris had 2 picks. The rest of you need to step it up if you guys expect to make an impact this season. (ed’s note: sorry, what did I do wrong?)

 

Division 2

Petits Phoques vs D#Nasty (25-20)

Let me start by saying D#Nasty was without their starting QB. I now will say that Vincent was playing his first game as a QB. With the experience that D#Nasty has I would have expected them to win easily. Vincent did a good job for a first time thrower, except he will have to rely less on Dom and Bresse and get everyone involved if they want to keep winning. I would like to see this matchup in a few weeks once Vince is more comfortable and Kevin is there for D#Nasty.

 

Raccoons vs Iron Wolves (19-14)

This was a very close game and with a full roster Iron Wolves could have won. It was nice to see the newly married Seb back for Raccoons and it didn’t take long for him to get reacquainted with the team. Raccoons were missing their rusher, even with him not there Alexandre did a great job filling in, as he managed 2 sacks and constant pressure. Both teams should get better as the season goes along.

 

Old School vs Deep Threats (21-18)

I’m glad to see Deep Threats come back this fall season. I also heard that they are still up to the same old trick of going deep on almost every play. Old School was aware of this and took it away. Old School was missing their best player and QB Dahic this weekend, but were able to find a decent replacement in Steve from Outlaws. It was nice for Old School to get off to a good start this season since it will be a long hard fight to get back to where they want to be. Deep Threats need to learn a more balanced attack if they want to win.

 

Nice TDs vs Dawgs (26-18)

Dawgs look to be on their way to a respectable season. Ya, they might have lost but they played well and once everyone shows up then they should be fine. I want to say that Demario looks to be one of the top QBs in the division. I know it’s just one game, but sometimes you can tell. I also want to say that people who are trying to do the dip move better learn how to do it properly or you will be flagged for leading with your shoulder. Nice TDs was saying that it really wasn’t a challenge this game yet they only won by 8 points. 

 

Division 3

Professional Punters vs Beautes (20-21)

This game was long and slow or at least the first little bit of it was. Neither team was able to complete a pass so it was punt after punt. I saw this game and both QBs struggled. Professional Punters were without Matt their rusher who would have eliminated what Brian did best which was run. This game was won by a convert by the least likely of all people Manon even she was shocked that the ball came to her and she caught it. That was her only stat in the game, but the one that mattered the most.

 

Thunder Buddies vs Gold Rush (20-26)

Nick wasn’t there this week to throw so they brought Jon in to throw which is an obvious down grade. Terry stunk out there on Saturday as the reigning MVP should have been able to take this game over easily. I will say that Charles really made an impact in his first Division 3 game. After Charles other players need to step up. For Gold Rush Travis killed, but what else did you expect, he is the best player on the team. Out of all the teams in the division I think Gold Rush will be the surprise team this season.

 

Picks and Reasons Why

 

Division 1 

Bitter Boys vs Revolucion 

I had to go and pick Bitter Boys in this one. There are multiple reasons so here is the list why. Raph is playing QB, fancy new uniforms for Bitter Boys, Guillaume & Patrick, and last but most important Bitter Boys are the better team.

 

Outlaws vs Trollers NA

So I won’t pick a winner in this game for a few reasons. I will say that it will be a close game that will come down to the last few plays just like it did twice last season.

 

Division 2 

Petits Phoques vs Raccoons 

I just think that Petits Phoques have too many weapons on defense and Raccoons are going to turn it over too much. I also think Raccoons have never had to deal with as player like Dom before. I just hope that Vince doesn’t get too rattled by the Raccoons defense which is still one of the top in the division.

 

D#Nasty vs Centurions 

I only have one word as to why I picked D#Nasty to win: REVENGE. Centurions knocked them out last season and this time it’s payback. This needs to be a statement game for them after last weeks loss.

 

Joey’s Haters vs Space Apes

I know this is a new team, but I have seen the roster and they have way too many weapons to be stopped. This team is mostly made up of Division 1 players. I will say that having Francis does lower the teams skill way down. 

 

Nice TDs vs Old School

I’m not a fan of Nice TDs. I think that they are like preppy high school kids that are entitled. I picked them to win since Demario should be able to pick them apart and take over the game.

 

Deep Threats vs Dawgs

I don’t think that Dawgs will be able to stop Svetna. He is faster than all of them and can out jump them with ease. I would much rather see Dawgs win, but I just don’t see that happening. 

 

Division 3 

Gold Rush vs Beautes 

I think Gold Rush have a very solid team and I think it will take Brian a few more weeks to get decent at playing QB. That is why I chose Gold Rush.

 

Thunder Buddies vs Mustard Tigers

This is a match up I could see happening in the finals. That is a long ways from now so I’ll just tell you why I picked Thunder Buddies to win this game. I think that Thunder Buddies need to rebound after last weeks loss or they might find themselves in some trouble. Terry is the best player on the field in this game and he needs to show why he was last seasons MVP.

 

Power Rankings 

Division 1

#1- Outlaws

#2- Henchmen (ed’s note: What?!?)

#3- Trollers (ed’s note: What?!?)

 

Division 2

#1- Nice TDs

#2- Petits Phoques

#3- Old School

 

Division 3

#1- Gold Rush 

#2- Beautes 

#3- Mustad Tigers 

 

As you can see I put teams that won in my top 3. It is early on in the season and as weeks go by things will change as teams start to separate from one another. I do my picks by your latest performance and what you have done against other teams that are on the list. You don’t necessarily need to win by 50 to get up here, it can help, but you need to beat the better teams in a convincing manner.

 

Player of the Week sponsored by Les Spiritueux Iberville You can follow them on Facebook @spiritueuxiberville and on Insta @spiritueuxiberville Great alcohol with a great taste by one of MFL’s own Mario D’Amico.

 

In this new section which is now being sponsored by Les Spiritueux Iberville I will be picking one player from each division and then I will have some help picking the league player of the week. To be the player of the week you need to help your team win and have some good stats. You might be able to get it with just stats, but those better be some ridiculous stats that you have. I would also love to do a quick little interview with the winner either by message of maybe live on camera at the field the following week. 

 

Division 1 

- Demario from Henchmen this guy did it all for his team. The guy had 9 grabs for 159 yards and 4 scores, and that was on offense alone. He was also able to pick off 3 balls, ran 1 back for 6, plus had 2 tackles.

Division 2

- Nick from Old School. I picked this guy cause all anyone cares about is offense. Nick helped on offense with 8 catches 70 yards 2 score and a convert. Where Nick made a bigger impact was on defense with his 4 picks and he helped Old School win.

Division 3  

- Travis from Gold Rush was the man this week. He hauled in 6 balls for 96 yards, 2 scores, and a convert, which makes him the top receiver in the division in multiple categories. He also made a difference on defense getting 2 tackles and 1 sack which makes him tied for the season lead.

 

The Week 1 winner is Travis from Gold Rush. On Saturday he will be awarded his choice of alcohol that was provided by Mario over at Les Spiritueux Iberville.

 

Q. How does it feel to be first ever player of the league award sponsored by Les Spiritueux Iberville?

A. I am honored to be the first player of the week league wide, sponsored by Les Spiriteux Iberville. I put extra pressure on myself to perform for my friends joining their first ever flag football game.

 

Q. What is the difference from last season to this one goals expectations?

A. The big difference between last season and this season is sponsors. I guess we're getting to the big leagues. Seriously the difference to me would be that Division 3 feels a little closer in competition and this year I think I may have recruited some good hands out on the field. I also feel like getting last season under our belt gave us lots of experience and we're starting to learn and understand.

 

Q. What would you prefer more winning a title or being named MVP?

A. I would honestly prefer that my team win a title this year than any personal accomplishments. Stats and awards are nice but winning more than half your games would be a nice feeling, I imagine. Winning a title with all my friends so we can talk about our accomplishments till we're old and grey sounds more satisfying to me than just MVP for a season. Is it too much to ask for both? 

 

Q. Do you set season goals or are you just out to have fun?

A. Well since we've been pegged as the fun team since last season, but I think that we could change it up a bit and start winning. What's more fun than winning right? Honestly I'm just hoping to get things more fine-tuned since we struggle with the fundamentals and basics since we're all relatively new. That would make me very happy this season to say we've got the basics down 

 

Q. On a lighter note how is it being Katy's chauffeur? Does she treat you right if not you can always try out for the Alouettes.

A. Being Katy’s chauffeur is as just as good as it sounds. Sometimes she lets me choose which way we're getting to the park on that day. We can even engage in conversation if she permits it, but I must remain looking forward. I do not question it because she introduced me to this league. I am forever grateful for this and must repay her anyway I can.

 

Final Thoughts

Now that week 1 has come and gone we can all gear up for week 2 and getting out there and playing. I know a few teams had last week off so it will be the first game for some. We have a few big matchups this week that should be exciting. We will also be Jon free so it’s a good week for everyone. This past week Ben put out his top 10 which was cool. Hopefully this could become a weekly thing. I feel that this season will end up better than in seasons past with most games being competitive all the way to the end. In the early going of the league the finals were not good games, but last season we had 2 go right down to the end. Will we end up that way again this season, let’s hope so. So this week remember play hard, have fun, and be safe. 

Word from the Mouth: Fall Preview edition!

Word from the Mouth: Fall Preview edition!

Kevin Kousaie

Here we are start of the fall season. Normally in my first article I write up a little about every team in every division. I’m not doing that this time around. I’m going to write one article this week for the entire league. I dislocated my shoulder on Sunday so it is difficult to type. No one needs to worry, I will still be there telling everyone how it is and yes I’m still playing. If I was able to play the same day it happened, I will definitely play next week since my team has a bye. 

 

For the fall season we have three divisions again. In the spring season we had Outlaws winning division one with a last play bat down by Smuda. Division two had Red Raiders winning on the last play of the game with a double half back pass. Division three was a blowout by the Ninja Turtles.

 

Division 1

This season we only have five division one teams, it is down from spring, but it should be more competitive since teams are closer is skill.

- Outlaws are back and have what looks to be the strongest roster in the division by far. It will be interesting to see who is able to give them a run for their money. 

- Trollers are looking to fill out their roster with a few key guys leaving.

- Revolucion are back but they are always up in the air as to how they will finish.

- Bitter Boys are back with what looks like the same roster and will be able to compete with most if not all the teams.

  • Henchmen are back with a few guys from last season and who knows who else.
  •  

Week 1 Picks & Why

Revolucion vs Outlaws 

Outlaws have a top roster from top to bottom and unless Revolucion found someone else to throw it will be Raph and he isn’t the same guy as years ago. That is why Outlaws will walk all over Revolucion on the way to try and repeat.

Bitter Boys vs Henchmen

I picked Bitter Boys since they came on really strong at the end of last season. Jon will be throwing for Henchmen so there is no real need to worry about the deep ball. Bitter Boys also have Guilliaume who is one of the top players in the division.

 

Division 2 

For the fall season we have a total of eleven teams with most of them coming back from last season.

- Raccoons are back with a solid defense. The bigger question is who is throwing for them.

- D#Nasty is back with the same roster looking to avenge last seasons early playoff loss. 

- Old School is back with pretty much the same roster adding Adam which might mean Dahic can go back to playing receiver, which makes them that much better.

- Joey’s Haters has some really good division one players on it and depending on who else they get they could be very dangerous. 

- Dawgs have four guys on the roster at the moment. One of them is a QB so they don’t have to worry like last season and they also have a stud in Max. (ed’s note: They are already at 7 players!)

- Space Apes are back with their same roster so they will be a solid team. It will come down to how Charles plays at QB. (ed’s note: It’s a very different roster! Mix of Space Apes and 7th Rounders. Very strong team!)

- Deep Threats are back after taking a season off. I just hope that they learned last time that you can’t win games just going deep even if you have Svetna there.

- Iron Wolves what can I say that won’t make the editor add some stuff to make his team look better. Jon is the greatest QB of all time (ed’s note: finally, some sense!). That should make him skip over this next part. Iron Wolves are an average team there is no one that stands out to me. (ed’s note: I sort of tuned out after the greatest QB of all time comment, but I’m sure everything else Kevin said was glowing admiration of me and the team)

- Petit Phoques is a team made up of a few Gros Coqs that couldn’t handle division one anymore so they decided to try division two. No really, with the few guys I do know they should have no problem winning a few games, it comes down to who will throw and how are all the new players they brought in to play with them. (ed’s note: I think Vince is throwing)

- Nice TDs are back with the exact same roster. From what I was hearing last weekend they have a new QB in Demario. I have never seen him throw, supposedly QB is his natural position. Guess we need to wait and see how that goes and if he shows up to games.

- Centurions are back and this time looking to win the title. Last season they had the best defense in the division and they look to improve on that. The offense got better every week and Guillaume will try to improve over last season.

This is going to be the best division in the league and anyone will be able to win any week. 

 

Week 1 Picks & Why

Petit Phoques vs D#Nasty

D#Nasty will win this one since there are too many unknowns about Petit Phoques. Not saying it will be a blowout I just don’t know enough about Petit Phoques to put my reputation on the line. Plus Dom makes me think too much about how to spell his team names, next time pick something a little more simple.

Raccoons vs Iron Wolves

Iron wolves were picked because of the QB. You have Jon the great vs who knows. I really think the Raccoons have the better team, just not sure of QB situation.

Centurions vs Deep Threats 

This was an easy one for me to pick. Defense Defense Defense. Deep Threats will have to work for everything they get and deep passes won’t work plus this will be their first game in a while. That is why I picked Centurions to win.

Nice TDs vs Dawgs

I loved Dawgs last season all they needed was a QB. This year they have one so things should be different. I still think Nice TDs will win since they have more Chemistry. 

Centurions vs Old School 

I really like Centurions and what they did last season. Old School in the week off made a huge pick up in Adam. He is a solid defender and if he is playing QB then that means Dahic can go back to being a receiver. Even if he doesn’t that gives them another weapon on offense.

Those are my picks for the week.

 

Division 3 

This season we only have five teams with four coming back and the fifth being a combination of a few players from different teams last season. This division will be more competitive than last season. There is still the chance of a few blowouts though. 

- Guillaume & Lakshmi is the newly formed team. So not much is known about them except they might have the best rusher in the division in Matt. It will take a few games for them to get rolling, you have to crawl before you walk.

- Les Beatues. Last season they didn’t have a QB and kept trying new guys almost every week I hope that it isn’t more of the same this season. Last season they had a hard time as any team would without a QB. I am not sure who it will be this season so it could end up as more of the same like last season. (ed’s note: I believe Brian Tinning is taking the reins at QB)

- Thunder Buddies lost Dave their best receiver and defender. That is fine as he was too strong for the division anyways. They have brought in Charles from Space Apes to replace him and he should be a good fix for them.

- Gold Rush came back and should be sporting the Gold Pinnies again. They have a lot of solid players on this roster. I wonder if Nick will be throwing again this season. Last season they didn’t have problems on offense it was that they had no defense. Come see me before or after your game I have something that can help you with that. (ed’s note: Steroids. It’s going to be steroids)

  • Mustard Tigers came back for another season. I hope Brian enjoyed his trip to Europe. This is a very good team from top to bottom and when the season ends I can see them playing for the title. What bothers me about this team is that I wasn’t asked to join, now I’m going to look like a liar to my family when we don’t go to Disney. Thanks a lot guys and girls I’m picking against you all season and that includes your bye week.

 

Week 1 Picks & Why

Guillaume & Lakshmi vs Beautes 

I picked them because of Matt. Without knowing who will be playing QB for Beautes I have to figure Matt will do what he does and eat QBs for lunch. 

Gold Rush vs Thunder Buddies

Thunder Buddies have way too much experience to lose this one. Terry will run whenever he wants to in this one. I just think that there are too many weapons for Gold Rush to stop.

Mustard Tigers vs The Bye

The Bye week is going to knock a few of the Mustard Tigers out so that they won’t be able to make it the following week where I will pick them to lose again.

 

Final Thoughts

So we are about to start another ten weeks of football which could turn into being twelve weeks if you happen to make it to the finals. So you all know, don’t do what I did and get hurt in a meaningless game on the day you have two finals and can only play in one of them. You aren’t me and probably can’t deal with the same amount of pain as I can, so play safe and try not to get hurt. I will do to you what my other league wouldn’t and drag you off to the sideline and keep playing. We are on a schedule and it needs to be kept. Just so you know we won’t drag you off that’s why we have extra cones you will become out of bounds. No I’m just joking we will take all precautions to make sure you are ok and not seriously hurt. Best of luck to everyone out there. Remember right now you are all undefeated after Saturday not all of you will be able to say that. So go ball out and have fun. (ed’s note from Kevin: Jon is the greatest QB of all time)

Word from the Mouth: Week 11 - Finals! edition!

Word from the Mouth: Week 11 - Finals! edition!

Kevin Kousaie

It is final week and we have the top two teams from the season playing each other. I think this might be the first time in league history that number one is playing two in the finals. I’m glad about this matchup as it should be a good one. I’m fed up of seeing blowout in the finals. Between the two teams they have 5 titles, Trollers with four and Outlaws with one. I hope that everyone is as pumped about the matchup as I am. Now let’s see how both teams made it to the finals.

 

Semifinals recap

 

Outlaws vs Gros Coqs (33-32)

So I said last week that both teams have a hard time stopping the other teams best weapon and that stayed true again in this game. Dom was able to run all over the Outlaws defense and Remy only managed 1 sack, 2 if you count the one at the end of the game on the convert. Dom still ran for 80 yards on 11 carries and was able to score once. Smuda had 7 catches for 84 yards and 2 scores. The biggest factor in the game was Shyanne, the guy just balled out and was unstoppable: 9 grabs, 73 yards, 3 scores, 2 converts, and 1 passing TD as well. This game went back and forth all game long. The big turning point of the game had to be the TD pass from Shyanne to end the first half. Gros Coqs have been around and should have known a jump ball was going to happen, they should have had two guys on Smuda along with having Dom rush so that the QB wouldn't have time to throw it the length of the field. That pass gave Outlaws all the confidence in the world knowing they could beat Gros Coqs with a prayer. I don’t know exactly what happened at the end of the game, but Gros Coqs were stopped on fourth down except there was a penalty on the play that kept the drive going. Gros Coqs went on to score and make it a one point game. With a big decision Gros Coqs went for two and the lead. We all saw Dom running around buying time until Remy dove and came up with the flag to seal the game for them. That was it, Outlaws off to the finals.

 

Trollers vs Henchmen (20-0)

This was a very boring game there weren’t any big plays other than JCs pick 6. Henchmen had another hard time holding onto the ball this week. They had lots of drops that really hurt their team. I thought going in this was going to be a lot closer game, but that never happened. Trollers kept getting stops and had short fields all game long. I think the only time they started with the ball on their side of midfield was when they started with the ball in the second half. The score at half was 20-0. At halftime I told my team to look over at the Henchmen bench and you could see they knew the game was over they all had their heads down and they looked demoralized. Second half was more of the same boring slow football, there were only 3 drives in the second half. Both QBs couldn’t get over 100 yards throwing, guess when you play a great defense that could happen, it also doesn’t help that Trollers were always on the other side of half when they got the ball. So the Trollers are going back to a very familiar spot, the finals that is.

 

Finals 

Trollers vs Outlaws

Previous Matchups Week 4 25-20 Trollers, Week 5 27-18 Outlaws


So you can see that these two teams have a history against each other. This will be just like the rest, a tight game that will come down to who makes less mistakes. The first game came down to a bad route run by Eric at center on last play of the game. The second game was decided by a pick in the end zone as Trollers were going in to score and take the lead. So you know it will come down to one or two plays that will decide the championship.

 

QB- This season Max is having a great year. He has been making all the right reads and throwing the ball on time. He hasn’t turned the ball over much this season. He is no longer that guy that only looks one way and if needed would take off and run. Don’t get me, wrong he can still run he just doesn’t do it as much anymore. Max has also improved as the season went along making the reads and finding open guys. Steve is still Steve. Very smart at running plays where someone will be open and getting the ball out of his hands quickly. Steve doesn’t throw many bad passes unless there is pressure in his face. Since Steve doesn’t run around a lot he needs to get rid of ball quick. I have played with both of these guys for years now and I love both of them, they both have a different skill set. Steve is calmer and Max at times can get a little flustered. This season Max has been the better QB so with that being said I’ll give the advantage to Trollers.

 

WR- Outlaws have tons of weapons that haven’t been used much this season. Yes, they might have the best receiver in the league in Smuda and Shyanne might be in top 5, but after that what have any of them done. Eric is used as a safety valve in case the play breaks down. So, unless the other guys get a bunch of targets it should be another heavy dose of Smuda and Shyanne with Eric underneath. Trollers have been a little more balanced this season. Ben and JC can both take the top off the defense with Josh being used as an intermediate guy. The ball seems to be spread better with the Trollers and that is what makes them harder to stop. In seasons past it was Just Ben and Josh, it is no longer like that and with that being said the advantage has to go to the Trollers.

 

Defense- In years past this was an easy one and it would have been Trollers all the way, but this season things seemed to change a bit. Trollers were without their top rusher Andre for most of the season, they weren’t getting picks like in years past and they gave up too many points to weaker teams. Trollers still managed to get 5 sacks, 20 picks, 1 pick 6 and batted 37 balls away. That was for the season, then they buckled down last week and gave up 0 points in a playoff game. Outlaws have had a great rush all season no matter who was doing it. I think the Outlaws finished with the best points against at season end. As a team they managed to get 17 sacks, 5 safeties, 14 picks, 1 pick 6 and batted 36 balls away. Both teams have similar numbers except for the sacks, but I will also point out that only two players on Outlaws have picks. Even with that last bit of information, I still have to give the advantage to Outlaws. If the two teams had similar sack numbers I would have gone with Trollers. 

 

X-Factors

- For Outlaws the X-factor will be Remy. If he is able to get after Max all game and not let him get to his second and third reads then Outlaws have a very good chance at winning this game. Remy will also need to be more involved in the offense. Steve can’t depend on two players to win the game. 

- Trollers X-factor will end up being Cano. With Andre most likely missing Cano will fill in at rush. He will need to do what he did last time against them and get constant pressure on Steve and make the passing lanes close quickly. Cano should also end up with a big part of the offense as he is replacing Lesniak. 

Those are the two players that should determine the outcome of the game. It won’t end up being one of the stars on the team it will be a guy who shows up and plays his ass off every week.

 

Final Thoughts

We made it through another season. This week we will be crowning a new champion. I would like to say thank you to all the teams that tried really hard all season and better luck next year. Everyone should come out and watch the finals as it will be a good game. I have been thinking about bringing out the BBQ for a few weeks now and what a better time than at the finals. I will be bringing hotdogs, burgers, just your regular BBQ items. I might even get some veggie burgers for Jon and myself since we both don’t eat meat. So best of luck to both teams in the finals, you guys played hard all season and deserve to be there. Play hard have fun and have a beer and stick around after to watch the division 2 semifinals and finals. I’ll be back next season writing and since the fall season starts next week you won’t have to wait long.

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