Word from the Mouth: It's Getting Political! edition

Word from the Mouth: It's Getting Political! edition

Kevin Kousaie

Here we are, back after another week and once again only a few minor bumps in the road. With games starting at 3 on the dot, teams need to be there early roster submitted and pinnies with the right numbers on. The first two weeks of the season we have started the first games a little late then had to play catchup to get done before our time expires. Even with us starting late we still managed to finish up before time ran out.

With everything going on between Ukraine and Russia (ed’s note: I’ve been waiting for this thing to get political!) we need to take a minute and think of how this is going to cowabunga up the world more than it already is. Both sides need to get together and figure this out before WW3 happens and we are all really screwed. We are hopefully close to the end of Covid and now this.

From all the people I’ve spoken with this somehow is all related to Brady. First, he leaves New England, and we get Covid and now he retires, and we are on the brink of another World War. Gisele, if you get your hands on this, just let Tom play and reach out to me if you’re looking for a younger man. I know I don’t have his looks, money, or super bowl rings, but I still look better than he did coming out of Michigan.

 

Week 2 Recap

 

Here are this week’s recaps from what I saw and heard this week.

 

Division 1

 

Les Petits Phoques vs The Villains (16-40)

 

I just saw a few plays from this one and it didn’t look good at all for Petits Phoques. Villains look to be a really solid team and know what they are doing. Petits Phoques on the other hand should not be in this division and part of the problem is when the roster was submitted, they had a few players on it that aren’t on the team and because of that were moved from D2 up to D1. I think I heard that Jon might look into moving them if he is able to, but at this point I doubt that will happen.

 

Ataboy vs No Punt Intended (26-6)

 

I didn’t see this game, but I did hear that it wasn’t a good game from both teams. I spoke to JC afterwards and he said they won the game, but that it wasn’t a good performance from them. If you can beat up a good team like No Punt Intended like this on a bad game early in the year, what is going to happen when they play well? It will be interesting to see what Ataboy can do in the weeks ahead.

 

Pardon My Swag vs Bread and Circus (26-32)

 

This was by far the best game in this division this week. Pardon my Swag had Justin to rush for the first time this season, but were without Myles. I know both Myles and Justin and Pardon my Swag needed Myles there. He has played this team before and knows what to expect. Justin might beat everyone in the league in a race straight, but with Greg playing QB and being able to move around, Justin will struggle. Yes, Justin had two sacks, but how many did he miss and allow Greg to run. This game came down to the very end. Pardon my Swag had the ball after Bread and Circus tied it up at 26, they were unable to move the ball and gain a first down, turned the ball over on their 12-yard line, gave up a score, and had two plays to score to tie it up. On the last play of the game Brad threw it up hoping that one of his players would come down with it, but it was picked off and that was the game.

 

Division 2

 

Manitoboys vs Panaches (25-40)

 

I did not see this coming. I thought Manitoboys were going to walk all over Panaches. Manitoboys were without their two tall players and one of them is Simon their rusher. As a good team you should be able to handle missing a player or two. Felix led Panaches drive after drive and made it look easy. Other than a few drops, Panaches played a near perfect game. Once again Adam does what he does and looks to use his big arm to make deep throws instead of taking what the defense is giving him. On more than one play he had players open short, but decided to throw it deep where there was coverage. If Manitoboys want to win, Adam needs to start playing smarter football.

 

Bines vs 69ers (24-12)

 

I watched this game and by the score it looks like it was a close game, but it really wasn’t. 69ers dropped a bunch of balls like they did in week one and if you want to win then you can’t be doing that. The only bright spot for 69ers was “no thrills” Will who was also there as a sub. Albert was able to pick apart the 69ers defense with ease, guys were open all over the place. I know that 69ers were missing a few players so the defense wasn’t used to playing together, but they’re mostly veterans and should know what to do and where to be. I think Bines are a better team this season than they were in the fall season, with Albert at QB and Simon at WR.  

 

Westies vs Mean Machines (24-30)

 

This was the first time I got to see either team play since both are new to the league. I had to go over a few things with both teams through the game but the got it quickly. The two teams were very even, and the game went back and forth. The one thing I noticed, and this is true with most new teams, is that they like to throw it deep. William carried Mean Machines on offense and Justin took care of the defense for them. Both players are very good, and teams need to find out who they are. I wish I had time to talk to Westies QB Owen after the game. I want to know why with two plays left and needing a score to tie it did he throw it deep which fell incomplete and then on the last play of the game throw a short pass expecting his player to make everyone miss. Owen, next time try and get some yards on the second to last play this way you have a chance to throw it up and get it to the endzone.

 

Idaho Udapimps vs Average Joes (6-18)

 

I’m just putting it out there that this week Jason wasn’t there and Average Joes won. Jason, are you getting replaced or have you been given the boot? Just playing, I know the guys love you and they wouldn’t do that. If it wasn’t for Brady picking off Avery three times on deep balls the score would have been way worse than it was. Idaho should never have been in this game as they were out matched and out played all game long. This was the first time Avery has played QB for Average Joes and he had guys open and just didn’t see them and most of the time it was on critical downs. Brady balled out on defense and that was the only bright spot for Idaho this week.

 

Division 3

 

Airborne vs Sneaky Snakes (13-27)

 

Before the game began, I was speaking to Marilou, it was brought up that they needed to draw up offensive plays as well as defensive alignments because people didn’t know what they were doing. I helped her out by sending her a PDF of routes and defensive alignments. This wouldn’t help them this week, but down the line it will. From the looks of it, Sneaky Snakes didn’t really run away with it when they could have and that was because the defense for Airborne played well. Later on in the day I spoke to Chris who mentioned that the offense didn’t play with much intensity and it seemed as if Guillaume wasn’t really into it today. Moving forward Airborne needs to play focused and with intensity.

 

Battlehawks vs Black Diamonds (12-25)

 

This looked like it was going to be a close game and it was until half, then it seemed like Black Diamonds made a few adjustments and Battlehawks didn’t. I will say teams better watch out with Black Diamonds; they are getting a hang of it quickly. It also helps that they have Jon, at least for now. Gabriel played superb on defense picking off Yann twice and Emy had two sacks before getting hurt. I hope you’re OK and heal up quickly. Battlehawks were again missing one of their better players with Julian being out and needed to rely on Manuel and was trying to force the ball into him. Last week Yann took what the defense gave him and this week he was trying to air it out. The biggest take away from this game was the running of Jon the commissioner leading both teams in rushing with one yard, rushing title here he comes. (ed’s note: 1 yard at a time!)

 

Primetime vs Phoenix (26-13)

 

Most of you have heard about trap games and this was a trap game for Phoenix. Last week Primetime looked bad all over, couldn’t complete a pass, couldn’t cover, it was a complete mess for them. This week I think they finally played up to the potential they have. They opened the game with a long drive to score, then they got a stop on downs due to a horrible pass by me. I threw it two yards in front of my receiver who was open for a first down. The turnover didn’t help them as they threw a pick almost right away. Then Kyle who was rushing picked off my pass and took off to the endzone. That time was another silly pass by me where I didn’t throw it in front of my receiver and allowed the rusher to easily undercut the route. After those plays, things settled down for Phoenix as we marched the field and scored right before half. Phoenix started with the ball in the second half and we were driving and I threw a post in Rob’s direction, but I didn’t lead him enough and this pass was picked off as well. Primetime threw a 5-yard hook at most to Kyle who turned on the jets running by everyone on Phoenix to take an 18-6 lead. Dan, Rob, and I all looked at each other and were like, damn, the boy has some speed. They went for two on the convert where Alijah one handed Mossed me for the convert. I will tell you that he did have his other hand on me, but really where we were in the end zone and how high that ball was coming, I didn’t think there was any chance in that ball being caught so I didn’t go all out, wish I had but I’m also glad it wasn’t caught on camera. (ed’s note: Kevin never really goes all out, since that would not be fair!) Phoenix drove down and again I threw another pick in the red zone (ed’s note: See? Not all out!). Phoenix needed a stop couldn’t get it and at this point we were just playing for pride. We scored and couldn’t get the stop we needed and on last play of the game threw it up hoping but it fell incomplete. I went into this one thinking Primetime was crap and I walked away thinking if they play like this every week, they might win it all.

 

Gold Star Performances

 

Last week I went a little overboard and ended up picking 15 players, which seems like a lot. Maybe I was being generous since it had been so long since we were able to get out there and play. This week it might be a bit harder to earn the gold star. Now let’s get to my list and see if you made it or if we have anyone who repeated.

 

Division 1

 

Les Petits Phoques vs The Villains

- Louis-David Lamarre 17 of 23 for 193 yards, 5 TDs 2 2-point converts to go with his 1 run for 16 yards. Then on defense he had 1 tackle and a pick.

 

Ataboy vs No Punt Intended

- Samuel Emilio Pelchat 3 catches 40 yards, 2 TDs, 4 tackles on defense and an interception.

 

Pardon My Swag vs Bread and Circus

- Francis Lanctot 3 catches 87 yards, 3 TDs and 1 tackle on defense.

 

Division 2

 

Manitoboys vs Panaches

- Felix Gerin-Lajolie 13 of 18 for 200 yards 6 TDs, 2 1point converts, 1 2point convert, 2 runs 15 yards and 1 pick thrown on offense, on defense He had 3 tackles.

- Guillaume Turnblom 4 catches for 54 yards, 2 TDs, 1 1point convert as well as 2 tackles and an interception on defense.

 

Bines vs 69ers

- Albert Nguyen 14 of 19 for 169 yards, 4 TDs, he also ran 3 times for 3 yards.

- Mathieu Roy-Caissy 4 catches for 24 yards, but 3 TDs as well as 3 tackles on defense.

 

Westies vs Mean Machines

- William Landuydt 3 catches for 83 yards, 3 TDs and 2 tackles.

- Justin Johnstone 2 tackles, 1 sack and 2 picks

 

Idaho Udapimps vs Average Joes

- Brady Ohanessian 12 of 25 for 113 yards 1 TDs, 1 run for 13 yards and 1 pick thrown. Brady isn’t here for his offense when you get 3 picks on defense, you’re going to make my list.

 

Division 3

 

Airborne vs Sneaky Snakes

- Felix Lalonde 4 catches for 50 yards and 1 TD. Defensively he had 3 tackles to go with 1 pick which he took back for 6 as well as a pick 2 on a convert.

- Marilou Cote-Noel 7 tackles 2 sacks and a pick on defense. That is to go along with her 2 catches for 7 yards and a 1point convert.

 

Battlehawks vs Black Diamonds

- Gabriel Boucher 2 catches for 26 yards on offense and 2 picks on defense.

 

Primetime vs Phoenix

- Kyle Young 3 catches for 86 yards, 1 TD, 1 run for 7 yards. On defense Kyle had 1 tackle and 1 pick he ran back for 6 points.

 

Those are my picks for who gets a gold star. Last week we had 15 players and this week I cut it down to 14 players. Guess it’s not that big of a difference, it’s just hard to leave some players off the list even when their team takes the loss. It’s still early so you still have plenty of time to still make it onto my list so just keep playing and putting up numbers and you might see your name up here soon. Congratulations to all who have made it and for the rest of you better luck in the upcoming weeks.

Predictions and Power Rankings Week 1

Predictions and Power Rankings Week 1

Kevin Kousaie

Predictions

 

With last week being week one and not knowing a few of the teams, I was still able to pick 6 out of 9 games correct. It’s not great, but it’s not horrible either. This week, let’s see if your team can help me get them all right.

 

Division 1

 

Les Petit Phoques vs Villains

I think they rebound after last week’s embarrassing loss and win by two scores. I also think that this week they will have more of their team out there.

 

Ataboy vs No Punt intended

Right now, I think Ataboy are the team to beat but they might have looked good last week as they played a team missing a bunch of players. Ataboy should also have Josh and JC this week.

 

Pardon My Swag vs Bread and Circuses

Myles has seen Bread and Circuses play enough to know how to stop them and where to attack them. This won’t be close.

 

Division 2

 

Manitoboys vs Panaches

I can see this being a very close game and coming down to the last few plays. Adam is a better QB then Felix, at least throwing. Manitoboys need a big game from Simon at rush if they want to win.

 

Bines vs 69ers

Last week’s Bines got lucky with a few bad throws that they turned into turnovers. This week Rob won’t make those same bad throws and be playing it safe. With a game under their belt and the rust banged off look to see 69ers score a few times on long drives.

 

The Westies vs Mean Machines

Both teams are new and I haven’t seen either of them play yet. I ended up picking Westies based off of lasts week’s games. They scored more points and gave up less than Mean Machines, so that’s why I picked them this week. 

 

Idaho Udapimps vs Average Joes

I expect Average Joes to be well above average this week and I also expect them to be out in full force with everyone on time.

 

Division 3

 

Airborne vs Sneaky Snakes

I thought long and hard about this game and who was going to win before I made my pick. I think Guillaume will struggle this week after not playing in so long. I also think that Sneaky Snakes will play better than they did last week.

 

Battlehawks vs Black Diamonds

Black Diamonds looked decent last week and with a few catches being made might have even won. This week they get their first win of the year. I also picked them since I got a hot tip involving this game.

 

Primetime vs Phoenix NA

I don’t pick my teams games.

 

There you have it, my picks for the week. Once another week or two goes by I should have a chance to see everyone play and making my picks will become easier. It’s always tough to makes my picks early in the year and most of the time it’s based off players I know on those teams.

 

Power Rankings

 

With so few teams in each division, it kind of seems pointless to only do the top 3 teams so I will just rank the entire division. This will let you know how I feel about your team and where I see compared to the other teams.

 

Division 1

1- Ataboy

2- Pardon My Swag

3- No Punt Intended

4- The Villains

5- Bread and Circus

6- Les Petit Phoques

 

Division 2

1- Bines

2- Manitoboys

3- Average Joes

4- Panaches

5- Idaho Udapimps

6- 69ers

7- The Westies

8- Mean Machines

 

Division 3

1- Phoenix

2- Sneaky Snakes

3- Airborne

4- Black Diamonds

5- Battlehawks

6- Primetime

 

Those are the rankings after week 1 and I do expect to see lots of changes over the next few weeks while teams are trying to figure it out.  I know you and your team might not like where I ranked you, but all you can do is play better and start collecting a few wins and you place will change quickly.

 

Final Thought

 

I don’t have anything I can think of to rant about at this time. I was rather surprised that last week everyone showed up to play. When I left at 2:15 to get there you couldn’t see 20 feet in front of you and I thought for sure that at least a few teams were going to be playing only 5 if they didn’t have to forfeit.

The best part about Saturday that I remember was how fast my food came once I got home and ordered it. When they tell you it will be like an hour, and it shows up 20 minutes later, it’s almost as good as winning the game that you don’t remember playing.

When did the MFL become soft and start caring about their players? Jon gets one girlfriend and now he has feelings (ed’s note: I have had more than one girlfriend!). I remember coming off the sideline just over a week after shoulder surgery and playing in a game. It was one hands and only for a few minutes, but I still got a pick in that game and threw a TD pass as well. (ed’s note: that was a real roundabout way to get to a very odd brag)

Then there was the time that I played with a completely torn PCL in my knee and that was OK, but you get knocked down once and bump your head and they won’t let you back in the game or even drive home. If I wanted to play in a soft league I would have singed in the NFL.

It’s now Tuesday night and I still have a headache. Lights bother me as well as being a bit loopy. Concussion or not, I’m still going to be out there playing this week with my team, you can count on that. I’m hard-headed if you didn’t already know.

Let’s all remember that this is a game (ed’s note: interesting segue…), and we are all out here to have fun. Relax, don’t kill anyone, and have fun. Hope to see everyone out there this week.

Word from the Mouth: I Don't Remember! edition

Word from the Mouth: I Don't Remember! edition

Kevin Kousaie

Week one is in the bags and went off with only a few minor hiccups. We ended up with a lot of close games and one complete blowout. I know teams aren’t used to the way the game clock is run for winter season and will take some time to adjust, but teams need to figure it out quickly. Time management in winter season is key.

Some teams wanted to go out and use as little time as possible while some of the teams choose to use as much as they can. Both strategies are fine, but both can burn you at the end.

Let’s not forget about having five plays once the clock hits zero. I hope that all the team captains have their roster submitted and numbers up on the site by this week as I know that from week three on teams that don’t have it all set up will be penalized to start the game.

Captains, let’s get this done and please have your teams there at least ten minutes before the game so they have time to get ready, this will also give you a chance to get flags or pinnies if you need them. With the season underway it was nice to finally get out get some exercise and see a bunch of people other than family and coworkers.

 

Week 1 Recap

 

This week the recaps are going to be short since I remember very little about Saturday and have to go from stats and a few plays I remember. (ed’s note: Kevin had a little trip at the end of his game and may or may not be severely concussed. Literally impossible to tell with Kevin, though he was talking slightly less, which is the main sign for him.)

 

Division 1

 

No Punt Intended vs Pardon My Swag (25-26)

 

This was a game that went back and forth all game long. Neither team punted and there was only one turnover and that was on downs. When Pardon My Swag scored with only a few plays remaining in the game they needed to get their convert to take the lead and avoid overtime. Myles caught the convert and now it was up to their defense to end the game. Ben was able to get a few yards with his legs to start the drive, on second down the pass was incomplete. It all came down to the last play of the game Ben threw it to Dave who came up a few yards short of the endzone (ed’s note: He was literally inside the 1-yard line!). Pardon My Swag wins the week 1 matchup in a nail bitter.

 

The Villains vs Bread and Circus (16-6)

 

I didn’t see MacGuffins in this game, but my guess is that Bread and Circus came out throwing deep and Villains were ready for it. What I think is funny about this game is both teams when they started with the ball were able to go and score relatively easily, then both teams struggled after that. I’m very surprised by the outcome of this game as I thought Bread and Circus would have performed better. This also tells me that you shouldn’t overlook Villains this season.

 

Ataboy vs Les Petits Phoques (40-16)

 

I said last week that Petits Phoques were going to struggle, and they did. I spoke to Vince prior to their game and the biggest issue with them is you never know who will show up each week. If they had been placed in D2 and their full roster shows up then they would dominate and when they play in D1 with players missing they get smoked. I know in years past we have made a few stipulations so they can all play together, but that didn’t happen this season. I know Ataboy balled out all over the place and were even missing players this week. Did they really need Marvin to sub for them this week? I know he didn’t do much, but his presence makes you look the other way, then asking to have him join the team full time afterwards just seems like you’re trying way too hard just to win.

 

Division 2

 

69ers vs Panaches (7-20)

 

To me this has to be the biggest surprise of the week. I never would have thought it would have turned out this way. I know Rob was telling me before the game he was rusty, but there is rust and then there was this performance, at least it can only go up from here for him. I know Panaches is a good team and Felix keeps getting better, but I figured if they won it would have been on a last-ditch effort with no plays left. I only saw one play from this game, and it was a deep pass from Rob where the ball just didn’t get there.

 

Average Joes vs Bines (18-19)

 

I remember this be close and Average Joes having the ball at the end of the game and failing to convert on fourth down to keep the game going. I also remember a bunch of deep balls from both teams that were just a step or two away from going for TDs. When these two teams play again, I expect to see a lot more completed passes as well as converts.

 

Mean Machines vs Idaho Udapimps (6-22)

 

I happened to see the boys in pink prior to their game, but with the time restrictions I couldn’t ask them how it went. From the looks of it both teams were rusty and neither QB really spread the ball around. I guess after being off for so long and one team being new it will take them a few weeks to get going. What is surprising is that Idaho had two safeties in this one game. I wonder was that just a great rush or did it have to do with Mean Machines having someone who never played QB before and was holding onto the ball too long.

 

The Westies vs Manitoboys (8-19)

 

For a team that went to the finals in D4 last fall I was expecting more out of them. Maybe they decided to play like they did in that finals and hope for the best. I can tell you that from what I saw in this game I wasn’t impressed at all by either team. Yes, Manitoboys won, and it seemed easy for them, but not everyone will be a new team. Adam needs to do a better job of spreading the ball around and not going deep as much.

 

Division 3

 

Sneaky Snakes vs Black Diamonds (12-6)

 

I watched this game and the one thing that stuck out to me the most was Black Diamonds and how they looked. It looks to me that in due time they should be a good team. The players seemed to pick up the defensive side of the ball and with Jon playing QB for now should be fine on offense once they learn how to catch the ball better. Sneaky Snakes have a few new players, but really Dave needs to step up and play better.

 

Primetime vs Airborne (20-0)

 

I have no clue what to tell you about Primetime. They played the same way they did last time. It was very soft coverage on defense and taking deep shots most of the game. Jacob needs to learn to take what the defense is giving him. Five completions won’t get you in the win column. As for Airborne, Guillaume wasn’t there this week and Kris Hope filled in and it was a huge upgrade. I got a few words from Kris and we were both surprised at how Primetime played so far off and his guys were still able to beat them over the top. Just imagine if all of Airborne could catch, it might have been 40 points on the board.

 

Phoenix vs Battlehawks (18-12)

 

I don’t really remember much from this game, but what I can tell you is that Phoenix used every second of the clock every play. To me the biggest surprise was how little Nick who isn’t so little anymore played at his new position of safety. Nick ended up batting two balls away one of those leading to the only interception of the game by Rob. I also remember Rob making a great catch in the back corner of the endzone for a TD. On the Battlehawks side, Kayla was the one real bright spot for them. If she can keep doing this week in and week out teams will have to pay plenty of attention to her. (ed’s note: for those who saw the game, it was really all about star wideout Jon Evans and his “hands of gold”)

 

Gold Star Performances

 

I would normally do player of the week here, but I ended up with an order of gold stars at home (ed’s note: what is “an order of gold stars” and how would you “end up” getting an order of them?) and have decided to have a little fun with them. I would only pick one player of the week, but I have decided to pick at least one player per game who stood out and have made everyone show them some respect. Winning or losing you can make this list.  I will also be keeping track of who gets how many stars on the season and will be giving the player with the most stars per division some sort of prize when the season ends.

 

Division 1

 

No Punt Intended vs Pardon My Swag

- Alex Joltopuf- 5 catches 73 yards 1 TD 2 tackles on defense.

- Ben McMahon 14 of 16 for 185 yards 4 TDs 1 1point convert and 1 tackle.

 

The Villains vs Bread and Circus

- Jeremi Thompson O’Reilly 3 catches 32 yard 1 TD 1 tackle and 2 picks.

 

Ataboy vs Les Pettits Phoques

- Nicolas Blais 18 of 20 for 177 yards 6 TDs 2 2point converts 1 run 7 yards and 7 tackles.

- Samuel Emilio Pelchat 4 catches 51 yards 2 TDs 2 tackles and 1 pick.

 

Division 2

 

69ers vs Panaches

- Thomas Gerin-Lajoie 3 catches 27 yards 2 TDs and 1 tackle.

 

Average Joes vs Bines

- Thomas Cote-Parent 4 catches 30 yards 2 TDs and 1 pick.

- Avery Kilmas 2 catches 29 yards 1 TD 1 tackle and a pick.

 

Mean Machines vs Idaho Udapimps

- Kyle Daniels 6 catches 61 yards 1 TD 1 tackle a sack which was for a safety.

 

The Westies vs Manitoboys

- Muamba Luboya 4 catches 24 yards 1 TD and a pick.

 

Division 3

 

Sneaky Snakes vs Black Diamonds

- Massil Messaoud-Nacer 6 catches 53 yards a TD 3 tackles and 1 sack.

 

Primetime vs Airborne

- Kevin Dickey 3 catches 26 yards 1 TD 1 tackle and 1 pick.

 

Phoenix vs Battlehawks

- Nick Kousaie 6 catches 30 yards 2 TDs 2 tackles.

- Rob White 6 catches 41 yards 1 TD 2 tackles 1 pick.

- Kayla Gauthier 5 catches 43 yards 1 TD and 3 tackles.

 

There you have it, the players I felt made big impacts in this week’s games. We will have to wait and see if we get to see these names again or if it was just beginner’s luck.

Word from the Mouth: We're back, baby! edition

Word from the Mouth: We're back, baby! edition

Kevin Kousaie

After weeks and weeks of being in lockdown and our season being delayed, the government is finally allowed adults to get back to playing sports.

This is great timing since this past weekend was the last week of the NFL. Once again, the refs decide to make calls with the game on the line. Reminds me of Jaf last fall in the playoffs. He knows what I’m talking about and don’t worry about it, I don’t hold a grudge (ed’s note: clearly…).

I also want to point out that Monday was Valentine’s Day (ed’s note: this day shall only be known as Jon’s birthday, thank you very much) and the same day as gyms reopening. I would love to see how many people choose to go to the Gym rather than spend it with their significant other.

This season with Covid regulations being in place the MFL is asking that all their players follow the rules set up by the facility.

-      You are only allowed to show up 10 minutes before your game and must leave as soon as your game is over.

-      You will have to wear a mask when entering the site as well as needing to provide proof of vaccine along with ID to enter the facility.

-      You are not allowed to spit on the field and if you are seen doing this you will be asked to leave the building immediately.

Just follow those rules and we will be fine and can get back to playing.

The MFL is changing a few things up for the winter season. No more coin toss, the home team picks what they want: offense or defense. The team that will start on offense will always be going away from the entrance wall. This is to speed things up, so we don’t run out of time. I hope you all understand, winter season is a little more time conscientious since games will last under an hour. If I was a captain, I’d go look at the rules, so I know what is going on.

 

Preseason Predictions

 

This is where I would talk about what happened last week, but since this is week one, I will tell you how I think your team will do this season, and since most rosters are in it makes it a little easier for me.

 

Division 1

 

Bread and Circuses

This team is moving over from Brossard where they won it all in the fall season. They are very athletic and if their QB can work the field and not just go deep as much as he can, they should finish at least 6-4 on the season.

 

Free Agent Team

This team hasn’t picked a name yet and I’m not sure if Dave or Ben will be playing QB, but if I’m in this division pray that it is Dave throwing. You don’t want ben under center, because at any point he can take off and score using his legs. The good thing about this roster is that Franchise is their worst player and he isn’t half bad at least on defense. (ed’s note: that may be the nicest thing Kevin has ever said about Francis)

 

Les Petit Phoques

This looks like their roster from all the other years. They all can play the thing over the past few seasons have been guys showing up. With Dom always giving his team a chance to win games, I never count them out, except this season I think they might be a little over their heads this time around.

 

Pardon My Swag

It looks like Brad is bringing his team from a different league to play and they all know what they are doing and are all solid players. I see this team wrecking the division and I also can see a few QBs getting knocked around a few times. I will say now that they would be my pick to win it all this season if Brad is playing QB.

 

Ataboy

This is JCs team, and he must be one of if not the fastest player in the division. With the arm Nico has, you can’t let him get behind you or it will be 6 all day long. With Josh and Ben on the team as well it should take these guys long to get the team working as one on both sides of the ball. That will be their biggest issue this season, winning games shouldn’t be.

 

The Villains

I know absolutely nothing about this team other than they are all new to the league and asked to be put in D1 and have some sort of football experience. I hope its flag experience and not tackle because they are two totally different games. This team will struggle most of the year, but will get a win or two by seasons end and have the experience for the spring if they come back.

 

Division 2

 

Average Joes

This is two teams that came together, it is half Average Joes and half Chiefs. This team will be an above average team once they learn how to play together. It is also required Jason to move on from last fall’s debacle. (ed’s note: nice of you not to remind him of it)

 

Bines

Last fall’s division 4 champs from my understanding have lost Simon who was by far their best player as well as their QB. Unless they found someone to play QB, they will struggle, but should be able to sneak out a few wins either way. It looks like Simon might have rejoined the team and if that’s the case see them challenging for the title again.

 

Idaho Udapimps

This team was just learning the game last fall and did surprisingly well. They should be able to build from last season. This team are just a bunch of guys looking to have fun and they do. I want to say after asking to know what Harris’s last name is, it has finally been put on the site. This team will be fine, but need to use the whole field not just chuck it up.

 

Manitoboys

This is the same team that made it to the finals of D4 last fall and were walked all over in that game. It is pretty much the same team with one new player added. I feel they should be fine and can compete for the title. It will depend on their defense and if Jeremy can stop jumping when rushing. He also needs to get a new number. I know you want to be me, but I could never look that ugly. Jeremy knows I’m just joking and if not, it’s for all those gimme calls you got last season.

 

Les Panaches

This team has been up and down for the last few seasons. It’s the same roster they have always had and it’s just a matter of which team shows up. To me I see this team being a little out of place and will struggle. If they can win four games, I’d call it a good season for them.

 

Mean Machines

I know nothing about anyone on this team so making an assessment will be hard. Most new teams struggle for the first few weeks, but if they have never played and don’t learn quick it will be a long season for them.

 

The Westies

It’s great to see a few new teams join the league, but I can see this team like most of the new teams struggling all season long.

 

69ers

This is a new team that formed up, but they all have experience or at least most of them do. I will tell you now that if Rob can still throw like he did a few years ago he will be the best QB in the division and it won’t even be close. Big E should lead the division in catches if Rob still plays the way he uses to. This team will be fine and could win it all once they learn to play together on defense.

 

Division 3

 

Airborne

Guillaume has been playing with most of the guys on this team for years now and should have a leg up on everyone at the start of the season. They will only go as far as Guillaume takes them. If we get good Guillaume, then they might win it all, but if we get bad Guillaume then see them struggle and not have much fun.

 

Battlehawks

Manuel and Julian might be the best two players in the division and can they carry the rest of the team with them. I am unsure who will be throwing for them. I have heard that it might be Yann or Manuel. This is something that we will have to wait and see. Once they get everything in order, they should be ok but have to worry about their weak spots getting exploited.

 

Free Agent Team

Most of this team is new and have no experience, which means they will struggle. Jon will be helping out playing QB for the first few weeks, but unless they are all athletic and fast learners it won’t matter.

 

Phoenix

This is my team, and I don’t want to give too much insight on what we will be doing. This team is a mix of players that have all played before and shouldn’t take long to gel and play as a unit. If we can use our experience to our advantage will be fine and could be playing for a title at seasons end.

 

Sneaky Snakes

I love watching and playing against this team. They are a lot of fun and most of the time the games are close. Half the team is back from the fall and the other half are players I don’t know. Marilou has played enough flag and it shouldn’t take her long to get this team rolling. I see this team having a chance at winning it all.

 

Primetime

This looks like the same team that played in the winter finals back in 2020. All I can remember about them is they were young, quick and very athletic. They were also the same team without a real QB and weren’t organized at all. If they can figure those two things out, they will be a team to look out for.

 

There you have it my thoughts on the upcoming season. I want to wish everyone good luck on the season and just have fun.

 

Predictions

 

Every week I will be doing my picks and telling you why I am picking that team to win the game. I’m not sure if anyone will be picking against me. If not, I might just flip a coin and see who gets more games right. My picks will be in bold.

 

Division 1

 

The Villains vs Bread and Circuses

I had to go with the team that I know and have seen played before. This could be a close game, but my bet is Bread and Circuses win by two scores.

 

Ataboy vs Les Petits Phoques

I think this game will come down to the wire. I have a feeling that Nico will have an easier time finding the weak spots on Petits Phoques defense. The challenge for Ataboy will be containing Dom and not letting him run wild.

 

Free Agent team vs Pardon My Swag

This is my pick for game of the week in the division. I think Pardon My Swag have the edge since they have played together before. The Free Agent team is loaded with talent, but is a team that will be together for the first time and will take some time to gel. I still wonder who is QBing for them and that is why I picked Pardon My Swag.

 

Division 2

 

69ers vs Les Panaches

I’m going with 69ers since Rob is the better QB here. The thing I can see being an issue in this game is banging off all the rust for 69ers. I think for Panaches to have any chance Felix needs to play great at QB. He can at times, but for a complete game after all this time off I don’t see that happening at least not this week.

 

Mean Machines vs Idaho Udapimps

I’m going with the team I know and have confidence in. Idaho is a solid team and if Mean Machines don’t figure the game out quickly it might turn into a long day for them.

 

Average Joes vs Bines

This was a hard pick for me to make. I think Average Joes have the advantage, but I’m not sure if Simon is there for Bines. This game is up to the QBs to win. Jason needs to be calm and not worry if he throws a bad ball and move on to the next play. If Simon is there for Bines do what you did all last fall use your legs and find the open player when you’re running around.

 

The Westies vs Manitoboys

I must go with the team that ended my fall season last year since I know what I’m getting. I will point out that Adam needs to step it up and play better and take what the defense gives him.

 

Division 3

 

Sneaky Snakes vs Free agent

Sneaky Snakes will win this game easily. With a new team with little to no experience, Jon will need to slow the game way down and hope that he can keep it under a three-score game. (ed’s note: thanks for the vote of confidence!)

 

Airborne vs Primetime

I went back and forth on this pick. I was going to go with Primetime since I can’t see how Airborne will deal with their speed, but then I remembered that Primetime didn’t have a QB last time and were very disorganized. Guillaume, if he plays smart, shouldn’t have a hard time picking the defense apart but he needs to be smart with the ball.

 

Phoenix vs Battlehawks NA

Everyone needs to know that I never pick my teams games and that won’t change this season. (ed’s note: everyone needs to know this!)

 

There you have it my picks for week number 1. I hope everyone read this far and will follow through and help me get all my picks right.

 

Final Thoughts

 

I’m glad that we can finally play this winter, I was getting worried that Jon was going to be forced to cancel the season and we were going to wait until spring to get back out there again. The best part about this season compared to other winter seasons is that the games are in Lachine and that we are in the main building and not the dome which means it will be a lot warmer and there is also a parking lot, so no more spending a bunch of time looking on Sherbrook or De Maisonneuve. I’m just looking to get out, sling the ball around, try a few new things, and get ready for the spring season.

I know most of us are huge football fans and that’s why we play the game, but did anyone watch the pathetic pro bowl 2 weeks ago. At this point the way the game is going, just do skill competitions for each position and play a game of flag or something. (ed’s note: they really should! It would be fun!) At least a few years back they use to get a trip to Hawaii. Now they just pick a random city and that’s where it is. Yes, Vegas is cool, but look at all the problems that happened there this season. Then you add what happened with Alvin Kamara the Saturday night before the game. I will say the NFL was on top of it and allowed him to play then get him locked up after the game was over. Like seriously, if he committed a crime and put the guy in the hospital, then why let him play.

I have always thought the NFL was above the IOC (International Olympic Committee) but it doesn’t seem that way. I know I’m probably missing something here, but how was the American sprinter Sha’Carri Richardson not allowed to compete in Tokyo for failing a drug test (smoking weed) and figure skater Kamila Valieve from Russia who are already not allowed to compete under the Russian flag (for doping their athletes) allowed to still compete for a failed drug test back in December for a banned substance. This is complete bull sprinkles. I will point out that Jon did have to implement something like this back when the league first started because I used to smoke weed while I was on the field and played with one hand and it was giving me an advantage. It wasn’t like I wasn’t better than most when the league first began. Maybe not anymore with age and a combination of injuries, but I am working on get back close to where I was ten years ago, so just consider this everyone’s warning now: spring season you better watch out.

With all that off my chest, let’s all remember that this is a game, and we are all out here to have fun. Relax, don’t kill anyone and have fun. Hope to see everyone out there this week.

Leagues
Montreal Flag Football League
Division 1
Division 2
Division 3
Division 4
Division 5
Women's Division
Brossard Div 1
Brossard Div 2
Laval Div 1
Laval Div 2
Winter Div 1
Winter Div 2
Winter Div 3
Winter Women
Aces Flag Football