Word from the Mouth: Senior Citizen Bowl! edition

Word from the Mouth: Senior Citizen Bowl! edition

Kevin Kousaie

Here we are midway point of the season and the final week of NFL. There was the Pro Bowl this week and they played flag for the second year in a row and just like when they have equipment on, the tackling sucked lollipops.

On Saturday before the football they had the Senior Bowl and I missed out because I totally forgot about it (ed’s note: you might say you had a…senior moment), but I was told that it was way better than what the NFL put out. I would have said that our games were better, but after seeing the amount of dropped balls and passes flying wild all over the place, I’m a bit hesitant to say that now.

This week is bash week (ed’s note: wut?) so let’s hope you didn’t muck it up and your emotionally able to handle it. If not, stop reading now. Now for the strong here we go.

 

Recap

 

Division 1

 

Tourists vs Villains (37-30)

I’m glad I got to watch this game as both teams are very athletic and I figured that should make for some great plays. Zach started at QB because Daniel was late, but that didn’t matter as Tourists scored on both possessions with a big 36-yard TD to Will and the second was a 4 yard to Guillaume wide open in the middle. Villains scored on their opening drive, but slowed down after that. Villains didn’t have any way of slowing Tourists down as they were able to score on every possession. Tourists are a very good team, now just imagine if they had a QB with experience and Daniel could play WR like he normally does. As for Villains, they need a game manager or coach of some sort to help guide them. In this game alone there were multiple mistakes made by them. For example, every time Jeremi went QB it was a run, 5 minutes left down 2 scores they take a TO instead of a delay of game eliminating an onside kick and a chance to tie it up or win the game.

 

Inlaws vs Red”not”Skins (36-13)

This was a game that Brad wished had started after his first 2 passes, since they were both over his receivers’ hands and into the waiting hands of Kris who only managed to catch 1 of them, but he did manage a second pick a bit later in the game. With Kris starting out on fire and Steve going to him, this allowed for Smuda to find open holes and turned that into 3 TDs on 10 catches. At one point I had to wonder what Red”not”Skins were doing on defense. Smuda ran a skinny post from the left slot and Nick ran a hook-on goal line and their defense jumped the hook (ed’s note: you gotta double cover Nick or Steve is just gonna force the ball to him all day) which left Smuda wide open and Steve just put it out there for an easy score. Red”not”Skins need to get their defense fixed if they want any shot at the playoffs.

 

Kiss my Pass vs Red Cats (19-13)

With who showed up for Red Cats I was wondering where Nick would be missed more at center or at rusher. Sorry buddy, but I don’t have a choice (ed’s note: what is happening right now?). During the week Jason messaged me about being rusty and Garfield creator Jim Davis (ed’s note: that is, in my opinion, my very creative replacement of a swear word) and how he was going to play better. Well, this week it looks like no one got oiled because the rust was shining through (ed’s note: I mean, Kevin. What? C’mon man, get it together). There were a lot of throws he wishes he had back. Victor was who Jason looked to when a play needed to be made. Ryan filled in at QB for Kiss my Pass since regular starter Mathieu was running late, in the end they stuck with Ryan. Ryan didn’t have any big, huge plays that I can remember, but he was consistent and able to drive the field. Both teams defenses stepped up getting a combined 2 sacks and 5 picks. But the stop that Kiss my Pass got late while Red Cats were in red zone was huge.

 

Division 2

 

Rockets D2 vs Cold TDs (6-20)

These two teams are a complete mind gentle kiss when you just look at their rosters. Rockets have every advantage except for experience, and yet they sit 3 games behind Cold TDs in the standings. This game started off rough for both QBs as they struggled to hit wide open receivers. Elijah looked like he figured it out on his second drive of the game leading a scoring drive capped off with a 22-yard TD by Felix. It took Simon until the last drive of the first half before they all got on the same page with Simon getting a big play from Ben for 26 yards, then Steve scored 2 plays later from 13 yards out. Second half Cold TDs started by driving for a TD. Simon’s greatest play in his long career in the MFL, he got a sack. It was pointed out that it happened, so I had to mention it. Just to clear things up Elijah wasn’t wearing a flag, so we added an asterisk beside the stat, so no one is confused and thinks Simon is an elite rusher and so his rating does explode into the high 90s.

 

Division 3

 

Blue Badgers vs Grizzlies (12-0)

Oliver was missing at QB for Blue Badgers, so Oliver filled in. I know some of you are confused, but they have 2 Olivers on the team. This was not the offensive game I was hoping to see. Grizzlies are a complete mess as they don’t have a QB, they don’t really run plays, and on defense they try to play man, but other teams figure it out and just run drags and they can’t keep up. With this Oliver at QB, Blue Badgers seemed more of a D3 team than normal. This game had very little offense in it with just 4 players out of 14 get catches and neither team getting 100 yards of passing. Oliver led 2 TD drives in the first half with pass to Pascal for 8 and Jeremie for 35. Second half nothing happened but punts and picks.

 

Studs & Duds

 

Yes, its that time of the week where I see if you made my list (ed’s note: wouldn’t we see if we made the list? You say that like you see your own list and you go “wow, can’t believe he made the list!”). Who balled and who failed? This week there were a bunch of games that multiple players balled out in, but you also had a few games where players and teams really struggled. Now to uncover my list.

 

Studs

 

Division 1

- Daniel Garcia went 7 of 13 for 111 yards, 3 TDs, 1 1-point convert, ran 2 times for 58 yards and 1 TD. On defense Daniel had 1 PD.

 

Division 2

- Gabriel Guérette made 6 catches for 89 yards, 3 TDs and 1 1-point convert.

 

Division 3

- Eliott Bourque made 5 catches for 103 yards, 3 TDs and had 1 tackle with 2 picks on defense.

 

Duds

 

Division 1

- Young Old Timers as a team for showing up without a QB and having to play musical chairs at the most important position.

 

Division 2

- Elijah for completing less than 50% of his passes, but the real reason is that Simon was close enough to you to be awarded a sack for reach.

 

Division 3

- Grizzlies as a team they are not the team they were last winter or even in the fall season. They need to figure it out fast.

 

Those are this week’s winners and losers for this week. I will send a warning to Stu though: you need to ball out this week or else you’re making the list. If you know why you know, if not stay tuned to next week’s article where you might find out what Stu did to make the naughty list when his team had the week off.

 

Predictions

 

Another week down and another week of getting snuggled by everyone who isn’t reading my articles and not following the script that Jon has made up (ed’s note: yeah, I put genuine effort into making that). Forget that last line, Jon is a very honest and great commissioner (ed’s note: lies!). Last week I went 7 of 12 which brings my season total to 47 out of 75 or 62.7%. This is bad, and I better pick it up. Now to this week’s picks and like always they are in bold.

 

Division 1

 

Villains vs Rockets D1 

- Defense

 

Double Dippers vs Red Cats

- Rusher

 

Pookie Bears vs The Tourists

- Athletic

 

Master Chiefs vs Practice Squad

- The Brothers

 

Division 2

 

Cold TDs vs Ball Hawks

- Speed

 

Show me Them TDs vs Rockets D2

- They score more

 

CIA Fusion vs Bandits

- Game management

 

Team Rocket vs Southsiders

- Their QB will be there

 

Division 3

 

Belloz in Business vs Action Squad

- Experience  

 

Phoenix vs Bleu Ballers NA

- Don’t pick my team’s games (ed’s note: or spell your opponent’s team names correctly)

 

Lumberjacks vs Cheetahs

- Better Athletes

 

Tropic Thunder vs Blue Badgers

- Oliver their QB

 

There you have it my picks for this week. Now people help me out and do whatever it takes for me to get all these picks right.

 

Power Rankings

 

Did your team do enough to make it into my top 3 or are you still on the outside looking in? Could your team have blown it and been booted out. Let’s look and see.

 

Division 1

#1- Master Chiefs

#2- Inlaws

#3- Rockets D1

 

Division 2

#1- City Boys

#2- Southsiders

#3- Cold TDs

 

Division 3

#1- Blue Badgers

#2- Action Squad

#3- Tropic Thunder

 

Well, D1 stayed the same, but it’s going look a lot different in a few weeks and I can promise you that. At least one if not two of those team might get moved. D2 had a few new entries this week. What must be the surprise team of the division is Cold TDs who made the list. As for D3, Blue Badgers are starting to look like the runaway team of the division, but second place is still up for grabs.

 

Final Thoughts

 

The Super Bowl is this weekend and I really don’t want either team to win. I hate the Chiefs, well what the NFL has done with them anyway, and the way the league is all over Mahomes and every little thing he does. I don’t want to hear about how great of an interception he threw no look behind his back, it was a pick. He lip glossed up! As for the 9ers, Purdy is crap and only gets by because of the roster around him. I also know a bunch of 9ers fans and don’t want to hear their crap. Yes, that include you, Barbara.

Before I let you go, remember we are all out here for fun and to get some exercise (ed’s note: I’m there for neither of those things). When you’re out there, remember it’s a game, so don’t take it too seriously and have fun. See you all Saturday.

Word from the Mouth: 30 - 18 = 6! edition

Word from the Mouth: 30 - 18 = 6! edition

Kevin Kousaie

(ed's note: that's not a factorial in the title, it's just the format I use for it!)

 

Welcome back to another fun filled week of me telling you what went down this past weekend.

The NFL is down to 2 teams and it’s the matchup that was least likely to happen based on the betting odds. The NFL got what they wanted with the Chiefs making it back for a fourth time in 5 years, it’s the new dynasty to fill the void after New England.

Will Lamar ever get over hump and perform in the playoffs or is it time to move on and get a guy who shows up in the playoffs?

Then there is Detroit who should have won the game by kicking a field goal to end the half. I also get that if you punch it in you make it more one sided, but points are points and you have to take them every chance you can.

 

Recap

 

Division 1

 

Inlaws vs Kiss my Pass (30-24 On site Actual score 30-18)

Dobbs opened the scoring for Kiss my Pass with a 24 yarder on fourth down. Then Steve got the ball and went to work finding holes and marching right down to score and after a successful convert were up 8-6. After both teams scored on their opening possession, the defense settled in with Outlaws getting a stop on downs before Dobbs picked off a pass from Steve. At the time it didn’t seem like it, but what turned out to be huge was the sack Adam got for a safety. With the safety and the 2 successful 2-point converts, Inlaws held a 6-point lead with 3:16 left on the clock. Now we get to see if Mathieu has the clutch gene in him to get it done with the game on the line. Mathieu was able to dink and dunk his way down the field to the red zone. On the last play of the game, the play by play shows JF as scoring a TD to make it a 30-24 game, but he was never in and got stopped on the 2-yard line on a tackle from Nick. (ed’s note: then your maths don’t work. You said Inlaws had a 6 point lead, but if the final was actually 30-18, I’m no mather, but that seems like a 12 point lead)

 

Division 2

 

Punks vs City Boys (6-26)

Punks came out and scored on their opening possession and with that start, I expect a tight game. Then City Boys got the ball and took one play for Jacob to connect with Gabriel for a 45-yard TD. After that it fell apart for Punks. The funny thing about this game is that Punks could hang with this team easily if they made one adjustment on defense, which is to take Gabriel out of the game or at least limit his impact. You can’t give up 5 catches for 124 yards with 3 TDs to one player with no one else have more than 1 catch on the team. Late in the game tempers started to flair up and the officials called the game early for player safety.

 

Cold TDs vs CIA Fusion (20-12)

This was a typical game from these 2 QBs: long drives, smart play calling, and not many big shots taken down field. Jon made his QB return after years away, and that new throwing motion doesn’t do it for me. Before I forget to mention it, Thomas dropped this easy rump pass for a first down earlier in the game, but then for redemption comes up with a crazy pick, where he had to turn, run, locate and track the ball then pulled in in over the shoulder. Nicest catch I saw all game. Both QBs were under pressure all game with Roxanne getting 2 sacks on Jon and Jenna getting 3 sacks on Simon. Jon scored late to make it an 8-point game leaving 4 plays. Jon knowing the rules declined the convert to save a play and attempted an onside kick. It failed, and the game ended. Now to explain the convert decline. With there being 4 plays left, by declining convert it saved them a play which meant if the onside kick had been good, they would have been left with 3 plays not 2. Since the game would be extended for the convert if they score on last play, it doesn’t hurt them. Saving the play on the convert is the right play. (ed’s note: it essentially gives you a free extra play, since the convert at the end is added even if you score on the last play. The negative is that you lose the chance to get a convert, but I felt the theoretical 3 plays after the onside, as opposed to 2, is a way bigger benefit).

 

Team Rocket vs Rockets (12-0)

This game had a chance to be great and exciting and then it started. Team Rocket were without QB Guillaume who was either off getting drunk somewhere or hungover from the night before as per my source, so David St-Jean stepped in. I figured that David needed to run 15 times to give his team a chance. Instead, he came out and threw the ball short and only ran 4 times. Rockets QB Elijah had issues getting the snap with 3 or 4 being muffed and then when he did throw the ball it was off target, dropped, or picked off. In this game I saw the worst pass ever in MFL history. St-Jean was running to his left under pressure and tries to throw it, but not with 1 hand but 2 and the ball went high up in the air and far out of bounds from maybe 5 yards out. This game really should have been a name game where loser is forced to remover Rockets from their name.

 

Division 3

 

Phoenix vs Action Squad (19-20)

I stunk it up in this game and blew any chance my team had of winning this game. Phoenix started with the ball and it only took me 3 plays to throw a TD, only problem was that Jason was the one who scored on a pick. After that things went better on offense for Phoenix as they were able to move the ball and get a few scores in the game. Gold had his issues all day completing passing and getting first downs. If it wasn’t for his legs his offense wouldn’t have found the endzone twice. Late in the game Frank was able to pick off a convert and run it back for 1-point which turned out to be the game winner.

 

Hope you enjoyed the recap this week and remember that you can always send me tidbits about your game and I might use it like I have in the past. Thanks, and see you Saturday.

 

Studs & Duds

 

What a week it was in the MFL. Making my picks proved to be more difficult than I thought. Like always, I figured it out and put up the big dogs as well as the runts of the litter.

 

Studs

 

Division 1

- Victor Okoro had 5 catches for 95 yards, 3 TDs on defense he made 1 tackle and 1 pick.

 

Division 2

- David St Jean was 14 of 24 for 95 yards, 2 TDs and 1 pick. David ran 5 times for 25 yards, then made 2 picks on defense.

 

Division 3

- Eliott Bourque had 2 catches for 44 yards, 1 TDs. Then on defense he made 3 tackles had 2 picks and returned 1 for a TD.

 

Duds

 

Division 1

- David Mather threw 4 picks.

 

Division 2

- Dave Lepine I put you as the player to watchout for on this team and you go out and grab 1 ball for 5 yards. What is that crud? Pick it up because it’s making me look bad.

 

Division 3

- Kevin Kousaie for the 7 points he threw to the other team.

 

Those are your winners for this week. You want to see your name up here then ball the gummy bear out.

 

Predictions

 

One more week in the book and another week of me telling you who is going to win. Last week I stepped it up and went 8-3 and that takes my total up to 40 out of 63 or 63.5%. Sitting at 63.5% isn’t a sure thing, but it does mean I get more right than wrong. Now to my picks for this weekend like always they are in bold.

 

Division 1

Red”not”Skins vs Master Chiefs

- More top tier talent.

 

Red”not”Skins vs Inlaws

- Know what Steve will do.

 

Young Old Timers vs Rockets D1

- Speed and too much of it.

 

Tourists vs Villains

- Just a feeling I have.

 

Kiss my Pass vs Red Cats

- Better QB.

 

Division 2

 

City Boys vs Show me Them TDs

- Its what all the numbers are telling me.

 

Ball Hawks vs Bandits

- Everyone of them is an athlete.

 

Rockets D2 vs Cold TDs

- More speed.

 

Southsiders vs Punks

- Mentally stronger.

 

Division 3

 

Nomades vs Belloz in Business

- Younger and more athletic.

 

Blue Badgers vs Grizzlies

- Complete team.

 

Lumberjacks vs Blue Ballers

- Roster seems to be a bit stronger.

 

Those are my pick for week 5. If you want to help me out with my pick you can always drop a few passes, throw a ball to the wrong team and as the player is returning it you stop to yell at your receiver. I’m perfectly ok with you doing that if it means I get the W.

 

Power Rankings

 

Who is hot and moving up the charts and who fell off? Yes, it’s that time of the week where you can see if I think your team has done enough to make it into the top 3.

 

Division 1

#1- Master Chiefs

#2- Inlaws

#3- Rockets D1

 

Division 2

#1- City Boys

#2- Team Rocket

#3- Show me them TDs

 

Division 3

#1- Blue Badgers

#2- Belloz in Business

#3- Action Squad

 

That’s how I have my rankings after 4 weeks played. I know I only made a few changes, but there weren’t many games that could have flipped it around.

 

Final Thoughts

 

I’m running super late with this week’s article, so let’s keep this short and to the point (ed’s note: as always, too late).

No more Sunday games for the MFL which is fine by me. I would have said it gives me a chance to watch the NFL, but there are only 2 games left this season.

Please remember that in the MFL we are all here to have fun and play a game. This means there is no place for violence, and we won’t tolerate it. I must get back to work, but remember it’s a game we play so go have fun and don’t be a dick. Thanks and see you Saturday.

Word from the Mouth: 2000 Words! edition

Word from the Mouth: 2000 Words! edition

Kevin Kousaie

We are 3 weeks into our season and the NFL has 3 weeks left and a total of 4 games if you count the Pro Bowl, which most people don’t.

Growing up, the Pro Bowl was an honor (ed’s note: honour) and a free trip to Hawaii and players used to go and care about the game. I used to love the skill contest they did, then they marshmallow pied it all up by moving the game and it fell apart after that and now they play flag (ed’s note: which is better than any pro bowl they’ve ever played!).

Today at work people were complaining how can a kicker miss a kick when that’s all he does (ed’s note: I think this every time I see a soccer player miss the net). Buffalo has always been a ‘wide right’ kind of team, plus the league was never not going to disappoint all the Swifties out there.

The Bills aren’t the only fan base that wants their kickers head. In the Green Bay & San Francisco game, the Packers kicker missed another kick. When your coach says the kicker closes his eyes and hopes for the best every time he is sent out, it tells you it’s time to get a new kicker.

 

Recap

 

Division 1

 

Inlaws vs Practice Squad (42-30)

David started slow for Practice Squad, going 1 for 6 on their opening drive. With Steve under center, you know that his team is going to score, and they did on all 5 of their offensive possessions. JF had the only turnover of the game which he returned for 6 points and extended the Inlaws lead to 2 scores where it stayed for the rest of the game.

 

Red Cats vs Young Old Timers (19-12)

This game was not pretty or very fun to watch. Both QBs struggled to keep drives going, completing 27 passes between them for less than 200 yards. Jason was filling in for Victor and with his experience and knowledge, we all expected fireworks, but instead we got sparklers. You could see that Kris wasn’t having fun, he was open more than half the time. There were throws his way, but they needed to be a bit better placed. The biggest issue with Young Old Timers is consistency. They look like they figured it out on a drive then next time come out and look completely lost.

 

Rockets D1 vs Tourists (26-25) OT

After their first game Saturday, I spoke to a few Rocket players and all were under the impression that it’s not going to be too difficult for them to win a bunch of games this season. In this game they weren’t the more athletic team, they weren’t the faster team, but they were the more experienced team. Rockets had issues most of the game, but more so early trying to make tackles. Alexis opened the game with a nice deep ball to Andrew for a 40-yard TD, but what impressed me most about Alexis was his pocket presence and picked his opportunities to run. Andrew scored his third TD for Rockets to tie it with 3 plays left. A failed convert and 2 plays later we were heading to OT. In OT after both teams failed a few times, Rockets won when Marvin caught the ball in the middle of the endzone.

 

Division 2

 

Punks vs Rockets D2 (27-28) OT

Another game goes to OT, but how we got there is what you all want to know. Let me start by pointing out that Ali was a beast and the only offensive weapon for Rockets in this game as he amassed 103 yards, 3 TDs, and 1 1-point convert on 5 catches. For Punks, Mat was the guy moving the chains and keeping drives going, but when plays needed to be made they looked to Tarek to get it done. Late in the game, Punks were down 8 and George was able to get them in scoring range with 1 play left. George looked to run, but pulled up and threw a pass to Mat for the TD and now needed a 2-point convert to tie. Tarek lines up as QB and runs it in from 10 yards out to tie it. After each team had a few attempts, Leo on 1 knee is the hero catching the winning convert in OT.

 

Team Rocket vs Ball Hawks (42-22)

Knowing Team Rocket and having heard about Ball Hawks, I expected a close game where last possession wins and with the way it started it was looking that way. After the first possession, Ball Hawks had no way to stop David who scored 3 TDs, Guillaume threw 6 TDs and had 2 picks on defense. Dany threw a 45-yard TD to Samuel on his first pass of the game to give Ball Hawks the lead, but the rest of the first half was dominated by Team Rocket. Edvard had 5 sacks for Team Rockets and because of this, the ball was coming out fast and this led to his team getting 3 picks. Second half rolled around and Team Rockets knew it was in the bag and took their foot off the gas a bit.

 

Punks vs CIA Fusion (20-12)

For a second game in a row, Punks were the visiting team and had to flip their jerseys around to red. If you wanted offense and big plays this wasn’t a game you wanted to watch. What I found was Punks relied on misdirection plays and their athleticism. Whenever a play needed to be made, Kevin was the one to get it done, scoring 2 TDs on offense then sealing the game with a pick 6 with 2 plays left. CIA needs to figure something out at QB. I know Jason was hurt this week and couldn’t throw, but with Alex under center it hurts them at WR and at QB. Alex could have hit Barbara 15 times in this game, but instead he wants to dance around and look for the big plays. If Alex is going to play QB he needs to throw the ball and not run as much as he does.

 

Division 3

 

Phoenix vs Tropic Thunder (33-18)

Tropic Thunder were short a few players (Mark their rusher and Arthur their #1 target) in this one and it really hurt them. Connor played a good game at QB and gave his team a chance to win. All game long I was able to find open holes and spread the ball around. There were a few plays that made this game. With 2 plays left before half the 2 points convert by Akhil gave Phoenix a two score 9-point lead. The next key play came with just over 6 minutes. Phoenix was still up 9 and looking to gain a few first downs and end the game. Now for the controversy, Stu lined up as rusher at about 5-6 yards instead of 7. I pointed it out waited a second and snapped the ball. Stu got close and thinking I had a free play, I threw it up and hoped for the best. Ball was picked off by Louis and kept Tropic Thunder’s hopes alive. Connor moved his team inside the redzone and was looking to score and maybe go for an onside kick after that, except Trenton made a good break on the ball and picked it off. With little to no time left, Phoenix needed a first down to seal it, but ended up scoring a TD and just like that the game is over.

 

Studs & Duds

 

Now the section that everyone skips right to so they can see if they did enough to crack my list this week. Remember you ball out and put-up crazy stats or you just vegemite sandwich the bed is the only way to make my list. I will take bribes, but fees will be a case-by-case situation. Now for your big winners and your even bigger losers (ed’s note: damn…).

 

Studs

Division 1

- Benjamin Nolette made 4 catches for 40 yards, 3 TDs, 1 1-point convert. He also made 2 tackles and had 1 pick on defense.

 

Division 2

- Kevin Iuliano made 2 catches for 37 yards and 2 TDs. Kevin also made 1 tackle, made 2 picks and scored on 1 of them.

 

Division 3

- Zachary Lemaire only made 3 catches for 15 yard and 2 TDs on offense then had 4 tackles and 2 picks on defense. Oh, and how could I forget 1 run for 4 yards as well.

 

Duds

 

Division 1

- Josh Levine 1 catch, 6 yards & 2 tackles is not what you’re expected to do game in game out, these numbers are embarrassing.

 

Division 2

- Alexandre Szalipszki for having as many rushing yards as passing and not getting Barbara at least 10 catches for how open she was all game.

 

Division 3

- Louis Vranderick you can’t throw 5 picks in a game and not get your name up in writing.

 

Those are my picks for this week. You know what to do if you want to make it moving forward.

 

Predictions

 

After 2 weeks of making my picks, I was sitting 19 of 35, this week I went 13 of 17 which brings my total 32 of 52 or 61.5% on the season. I’m sure it will keep getting better as teams start to show who they are and what they are made of. Now to my picks and in case you didn’t know, my picks are in bold.

 

Division 1

 

Inlaws vs Kiss my Pass

- Chemistry

 

Rockets D1 vs Practice Squad

- QB skill set

 

Young Old Timers vs Double Dippers

- Experience

 

Red Cats vs Pookie Bear

- Someone has to score 3 TDs and win this game

 

Division 2

 

Punks vs City Boys

- Discipline

 

Cold TDs vs CIA Fusion

- Alex and his speed

 

Team Rockets vs Rockets D2

- More Chemistry plus Guillaume is a beast

 

Division 3

 

Phoenix vs Action Squad NA

- Don’t pick my teams games

 

Tropic Thunder vs Cheetahs

- Ability to run

 

Grizzlies vs Action Squad

- Pressure from Shermika

 

Belloz in Business vs Blue Badgers

- The Olivers are too good

 

Lumberjacks vs Nomads

- Stronger QB

 

There you have it my picks for week 4. Good luck to everyone playing this weekend.

 

Power Rankings

 

Who is on the move this week? Did your team do what it needed to in order to crack my top 3? Probably not, but you’ll have to read below to find out. Here are the rankings going into week 4.

 

Division 1

#1- Master Chiefs

#2- Inlaws

#3- Kiss my Pass

 

Division 2

#1- City Boys

#2- Team Rocket

#3- SouthSiders

 

Division 3

#1- Blue Badgers

#2- Belloz in Business

#3- Blue Ballers

 

Those are how I have my rankings sitting right now, but there are still lots of weeks left in the season and plenty of time for my list to switch.

 

Final Thoughts

 

My goal was to keep this under 2000 words while leaving 1800 corrections for Jon (ed’s note: close on both!).

I can’t believe after this week is played that a quarter of the season is out of the way.

Last week I warned players not to tell me about the Packers game and no one ruined it for me except myself. When I got home Saturday night, I flipped the TV on and right there was the score of the game. Thanks everyone for not ruining it this week and there is no chance of any of the games getting ruined for me since the two games are being played on Sunday.

Before I run out of words, remember that we are playing a game for fun, so go out have some fun and don’t kill anyone. Have a good rest of the week and see most of you Saturday night.

Word from the Mouth: Please Keep Me Informed About the Packers Game! edition

Word from the Mouth: Please Keep Me Informed About the Packers Game! edition

Kevin Kousaie

NFL playoffs started this weekend and once again the mighty Cowboys fail to get out of round 1. I also have an issue with them moving the Buffalo and Pittsburgh game from Saturday to Monday night because of the snow. We all know the NFL is soft now that you can’t hit a player (ed’s note: yes, the fact that we don’t have career ending injuries in every game is such a shame), but now we are moving games because of the snow? Why don’t they move games that are played in a heat wave when it’s hot? To me football needs to be played outside in all weather conditions no matter what.

This bring me to my question of the week, grass or turf? Indoors or outdoors? Growing up, when I played tackle football it was always played on grass and outside. Both have their advantages though. On turf the field conditions stay the same no matter what weather you’re playing in, but your body takes more wear and tear on it. Playing on grass as the day goes on the conditions get worse, but your body will like you better. After thinking about it, I feel football needs to be played outside on grass in all conditions (ed’s note: the NFLPA would agree with the grass part).

 

Recap

 

Division 1

 

Red Cats vs The Tourists (12-13) OT

I’m not going to lie and tell you this was a very good game when it wasn’t. Both teams had issues moving the ball all game long. If it wasn’t for Nick getting a pick and running it back to the 6-yard line, which allowed Victor to run it in for the score, it would have been 0-0 at half. Second half Tourists made a change at QB from Zachary to Vincent and it paid off as they were able to score 2 TDs. This game went to OT tied at 12 and OT took 15 turns at it before Vincent was able to connect with Guillaume for what turned out to be the winning points.

 

The Tourists vs Double Dippers (39-20)

New game for Tourists, different QB. After having 2 different QBs in their first game, Tourists went with Daniel to start the game and after seeing the results they might stick with him the rest of the way. After struggling in their first game, this time they had no issues. Daniel threw 5 TDs (2 to Xavier, 2 to Vincent, and 1 to Jonathan), not bad for a first-time thrower (ed’s note: is he?). The big takeaway from this game should be that Double Dippers are not the team that I thought they would be, their defense has been the issue giving up too many big plays.

 

The Practice Squad vs Red ”not” Skins (32-35)

In the first half Brad led Red ”not” Skins on a scoring drive giving them a 14-7 lead. On their first play after the score Dave was sacked by Myles for a safety, giving them a 16-7 lead and possession of the ball with only a few plays left in the half. Red ”not” Skins scored on the last play of the half taking a 22-7 lead into halftime. Second half both teams went back and forth until Marshall picked off one of Brad’s passes to give Practice Squad a chance being down 35-26. Dave connected with Marshall for the 22-yard score. After a failed convert, Practice Squad attempted an onside kick which failed and ended the game.

 

Inlaws vs Master Chiefs (42-49)

Ashton and Jeremy were missing for Master Chiefs and yet their offense kept rolling. Vinny was almost perfect with over 300 yards and he wasn’t even their top performer in the game. Nigel had 3 TDs, a few converts, and 94 yards receiving on 7 catches. Then there was Mike who only had 4 catches, with just 77 yards, and 3 TDs. It was the moves that did it for me, he left men grabbing air. Inlaws offensively did what they always do and moved the ball and scored points. The defense was what let them down, too many times they missed tackles and once or twice there was a blown coverage.

 

Inlaws vs Villains (29-26)

The first half of this game was controlled by Villains with them jumping up 13-0 at half. Second half starts and a few plays in Josh scored on a 31-yard reception. Josh then picked off a pass which led to another score for Inlaws who are now up by 1 point. Now being down, Will took 4 plays to get them into the endzone and the lead back. On their next drive Steve was faced with a 4th & 10 on his 5-yard line and took a timeout. At the time I’m thinking they would punt hope to get a stop, but if not they could try to score quickly and try an onside kick and hope for the best. Nope, not Steve who runs Smuda on an out at the first down. Smuda makes his break at the line, gets separation, and Steve puts the ball a little behind him and yet Smuda pulled it in and prevented the defender from knocking it away. Inlaws scored on this drive, but allowed Villains to come right back down to take the lead with 5 plays left. Meis made a very difficult catch for 25 yards which gave Inlaws a great shot at getting the game winning score. Game on the line Steve went to Mr reliable Smuda on back-to-back plays. Villains conceded the convert giving them 1 play to score and win the game, but they couldn’t get the ball all the way down the field.

 

Division 2

 

I didn’t catch any of the Division 2 games this week and I also didn’t hear much about what went on in this division, but I’m hoping to get a game or two this week so I can talk about what happened.

 

Division 3

 

Action Squad vs Belloz in Business (13-24)

Before the game started, Belloz didn’t know who was going to be playing QB for them. After a quick discussion they went with Vincenzo, which seems like the right choice now. Vincenzo had a good day throwing 4 TDs to 1 pick. He relied heavily on George and Giovani who pulled in 14 passes for 114 yards with George scoring 3 TDs. On the Action Squad side of the ball, Gold struggled to complete passes and move the chains other than his long TD run. He threw 2 picks to Stefano. The bright spot for Action Squad was Shermika getting 5 sacks along with 26 yards and a TD on her 2 catches.

 

Phoenix vs Free Agent #1 (18-32)

I’m sure everyone was surprised to see these results and don’t worry, so am I. Phoenix was able to score on their opening 3 drives and then couldn’t do much after that. Cooper completed 6 passes for 88 yards with 2 TDs, he also ran 3 times for 15 yards and 1 TD. There were a few plays that made a difference in the game starting with me hurting both my quads on the opening drive, but none were bigger than Anthony getting a pick 6 at the start of the second half to tie the game at 18. That was what started their dominance of the second half.

 

That’s all I have for you this week. I know not every team can get coverage every week, but I will try to make sure to cover every team at least once. If you have any info or a big play or two that happened in your game, you can always send me a message and I might include it in my article.

 

Studs & Duds

 

It’s that time again where you get to see if you did enough to make my Stud list, but more importantly that you didn’t make my Dud list. While we had a bunch of players who balled their tuchusses off and of course there were a few players that had an accident in the bed. Now the unveiling.

 

Studs

 

Division 1

- Michael Roy pulled in 4 balls for 77 yards and 3 TDs.

 

Division 2

- Jeremy Bastien played 2 games and went 30 of 46 for 301 yards, 8 TDs and 2 pick thrown. Jeremy also ran 5 times for 30 yards and on defense made 4 tackles with 1 sack.

 

Division 3

- Shermika Bartley had 5 sacks to go along with her 2 catches for 26 yards and 1 TD.

 

Duds

 

Division 1

- Red Cats & The Tourists special teams, going 1 for 18 on converts in OT. It’s embarrassing.

 

Division 2

- Jason McAleer 3 picks thrown.

 

Division 3

- Goldrick Noël for completing only 33% of his passes.

 

Congratulations for everyone who made the Stud list and for those who made the Duds list, you better step up your game if don’t want to see your name up there again. We’re only 2 weeks in so everyone has plenty of time to make it up there, but you’ll have to ball out and hope it was enough.

 

Predictions

 

I hate making picks at the start of the season as it can go either way, you get lucky and get a bunch of wins or you suck snots and struggle. After 2 weeks I’m somewhere in between and sit with a record of 19 of 35 for the season after going 8 of 17 last week. This week I’ll try and do better. Now to my picks which are in bold as always.

 

Division 1  

 

Practice Squad vs Inlaws

- Experience.

Tourist vs Master Chiefs 

- Stronger roster.

Red Cats vs Young Old Timers

- QB Play.

Rockets D1 vs Pookie Bears

- Experience.

Double Dippers vs Practice Squad

- Better Offense.

Kiss my Pass vs Villains

- Athleticism.

Tourist vs Rockets D1

- Stronger roster.

 

Division 2

 

Punks vs Rockets D2

- QB is set unlike Rockets D2.

Cold TDs vs Bandits

- Preparation.

Show me Them TDs vs Bandits

- Best player on field Jesse.

Team Rocket vs Ball Hawks

- Better QB.

Punks’ vs CIA Fusion

- Younger, Faster, Stronger oh and they don’t have any niners fans on their roster.

Ball Hawks vs Show me Them TDs

- More Athletic.

Southsiders vs Rockets D2

- QB is set unlike Rockets D2.

 

Division 3

 

Nomades vs Cheetahs 

- Speed.

Tropic Thunder vs Phoenix NA

- I don’t pick my teams games.

Grizzlies vs Free Agent #1

- Corey & Zack.

Blue Ballers vs Nomades

- Mattei doing enough to get the win.

 

There you have it my picks for week 3. Good luck to everyone playing this weekend.

 

Power Rankings

 

After 2 weeks of play, some teams have already put it out there that they are the team to beat. In most cases it’s just that team or player talking out their rear ends, but occasionally they are right and that could be the case this season even if it is still early.

 

Division 1

#1- Master Chiefs

#2- Inlaws

#3- Red "Not" Skins

 

Division 2

#1- City Boys

#2- Ball Hawks

#3- Team Rocket

 

Division 3

#1- Blue Badgers

#2- Belloz in Business

#3- Blue Ballers

(ed’s note: That’s a lot of B words!)

Those are your rankings after 2 weeks of play and I know that my list isn’t perfect, but a few teams made it hard to pick who should get seeded where. We all know that next week most of my list is going to change, so no need to worry if your team hasn’t made my list yet. Keep winning and eventually I’ll have no choice but to include you and your team up here.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Only a few weeks left of the NFL season and Jon was careless in his selection of times for everyone by having games played on Sunday in the middle of the day so we miss the second half of the early game and the first half of the second game, oh and how could we forget the games we miss on Saturday as well. The one good thing is that it’s the last week for Sunday games so we can all rest easy and know that.

With our games being played while the NFL playoffs are going on, it’s been so hard not finding out the scores while it’s going on, but I have managed to do it by turning my notifications off and giving warnings out.

So here goes nothing. I’m a Packer’s fan and my team is playing on Saturday night while we are playing, I am forewarning players and teams I do not want to hear anything about the game as I will be watching the Packers smack the Niners around once I get home that night. I will be throwing flags for unsportsmanlike and ejecting players if they ruin it for me.

Don’t worry even if Terry or Jon tell you I don’t have the power to do that they have no clue what they are saying. They are probably drunk (ed’s note: I take offense to the word “probably”!), so just trust me on this one.

That’s all I want to say and just remember we play football for fun. It’s a game, so go out and enjoy the time you have on the field before it becomes too late and you’re old and brittle. (ed’s note: like someone’s quads…)

Word from the Mouth: Pick Up Your Trash! edition

Word from the Mouth: Pick Up Your Trash! edition

Kevin Kousaie

After 8 weeks off we finally got back out there starting on Friday night, though most teams had their season start on Saturday.

Best part of this weekend was seeing everyone who I haven’t seen since the fall season ended in November. With the season starting there are bound to be a few hiccups (Jon not bringing the phones (ed’s note: I know…), refs mixing up the difference rules for the winter season), but even with that happening, it was great being back out there.

Well, it was until Sunday morning waking up and realizing that I’m not as young as I used to be. It’s now Monday and I still can’t walk properly, but it was worth it.

NFL playoffs start up this weekend and if you know any Cowboys fans, get ready to hear the excuses for why they lost.

This week one playoffs start, and the NCAA College Playoffs wrap up tonight with what I hope is a Michigan trampling of Washington. (ed’s note: you got your wish)

 

Recap

 

Division 1

 

Pookie Bears vs Red”not”Skins (27-26) OT

This game wouldn’t have been close if we were playing with summer rules and not having 5 extra plays, since Lucas was able to get them in the endzone to end both halves (ed’s note: but the games are longer in the summer, so he would have had even more time…). With 4 minutes left Lucas needed to drive the field, score, and get a 1-point convert to tie it and go to OT.  Lucas had plenty of time and was able to pick up chunk yards on a few plays before the defense stepped up and made them earn what they got. Lucas was able to hit Sandro for a 4-yard TD and that got followed by Rafaë scoring the convert to tie it up. Red”not”Skins had 3 plays, but did nothing on first play and got screwed by refs bad call the next 2 plays (ed’s note: sorry boys), so we went to OT. Pookie Bears started with the ball and needed to go for 1 which was good on a pass to Josue. Winter rules state that the second team must go for 2 points if the first team is successful. Brad was not able to connect with his receiver and that’s how the game ended.

 

The Villains vs Young Old Timers (12-24)

Villains are using Will at QB this season and it will be an adjustment for them. Last season Villains were more athletic than most teams and in this matchup, both teams were even. Every time a Villain player caught the ball there were 2 or 3 defenders right there to prevent YAC. The big difference in this game was Gerry, he was decisive with the ball and didn’t force any bad throws into coverage. Gerry relied on a combination of Sam and Ali who had 10 catches  132 yards and 3 TDs between them.

 

Division 2

 

Southsiders vs CIA Fusion (18-13)

I watched this game and after looking at the stats it seemed like CIA was going to win a close game that statistically wasn’t as close as the score shows (ed’s note: from beginning to end of this sentence, I have no idea what he’s trying to say). Southsiders scored on their opening drive and forced a quick punt from CIA. On their very first play of their second drive Zachary threw 1 of his 3 picks on the day to Alex. With a 13-12 lead and 4 minutes or so left CIA went for it on fourth down, but were stopped on the play. This gave Southsiders a chance to drive the field and win the game. On the drive, CIA had Southsiders on third twice and couldn’t stop them from getting the first. With the clock winding down and right before there were 5 plays left, Zach hit Adam for the 4 yard TD. This left Jason and CIA only a few plays to score and win the game. After moving the ball past half with the last play of the game Jason threw the ball, but it was batted away by Samuel to seal the win for Southsiders.

 

City Boys vs Southsiders (25-8)

Southsiders had much more trouble in this game. Zach couldn’t connect with his receivers and after throwing 3 picks he pulled himself and put Adam in at QB. Jeremy looked good at QB for City Boys and his primary target was Gabriel who had 6 catches for 92 yards and 3 TDs. The big difference in this game was experience and the play calling from the QBs. Southsiders were looking for big plays where City Boys were just taking what was open. Both teams need to improve if they want to compete for a championship at the end of the season.

 

Division 3

 

Cheetahs vs Action Squad (26-21)

The game started calmly in a first half where each team had a punt and a touchdown. It was in the second half that it played out where each possession ended with a touchdown. On the one hand, the Cheetahs changed QB (even if the stats don't show it) and on the other Action Squad started to exploit the deep zones. With 2 minutes left, Cheetahs managed a 22-yard run to then on the next play reached Xavier who stopped at the 1-yard line because he thought he had lost a flag. Luckily for them, they got the touchdown on the next play as well as the convert to take a one-point lead with 5 plays to go. On the 3rd play, Goldrick managed to get rid of the rusher before throwing a 25-yard pass to Frank for the touchdown that would give them the victory.

 

Action Squad vs Blue Badgers (19-20)

In this game, Blue Badgers started out strong by getting into the red zone, but they couldn’t score. The Action Squad offense wasn't doing much, so it was thanks to an interception by Justin that they were able to gain good field position and then score the first touchdown of the game. Olivier kept his calm and then went to score on each of his possessions. The turning point was the last long possession where the Blue Badgers went for a touchdown and a convert. At this point, Action Squad was on their own 5 yard line and losing by 1 with only 1 play left. The key to this game was the converts, because even though the QBs had the same number of touchdowns, it was the converts that made the difference to the Blue Badgers' advantage.

 

Phoenix vs Blue Badgers (6-31)

Blue Badgers were the better team. The game could have been a bit closer, but Phoenix had issues catching the balls (ed’s note: that’s some leadership from your QB) as well as not being able to play defense. When you give up 3 TDs to 1 player in the first half you know its not your day. Oliver Quinn the new addition to their team scored 3 TDs on 7 catches to go along with his 98 yards. The other Oliver played great as well going 14 of 19 for 155 yards 4 TDs while also running 3 times for 60 yards and a score.

 

Phoenix vs Grizzlies (13-6)

The score was close, but the game wasn’t. The only score Grizzlies had was a pick 6 by Jared on the opening drive for Phoenix. In the game Phoenix was able to move the ball up and down the field all game long they just struggled getting the ball into the endzone. If Phoenix had done a better job of catching (ed’s note: nailing it, captain!), the score would have been much different. With 2 minutes left Grizzles got the ball back after a turnover on downs with a chance to go down score and either tie it up or take the lead with a 2-point convert. Jason did what he needed to and moved the ball close to endzone before Marianela picked off the pass. Now Phoenix needed a first down to end the game which they got on second down. In this game Phoenix had their defense step up with 3 picks and 3 sacks. Kevin Clarke was the star of the game coming up just short of 100 yards as a receiver and also managed 3 sacks on defense.

 

That’s it for my recaps this week. Hope you enjoyed and I know its hard to see and hear everything that happens at the field, but if you want to message me about what happened in your teams’ games, I’ll make sure to add it into my article. Right now, the only player that messages me is Gold and that’s why his team was mentioned this week.

 

Studs & Duds

 

This is where I get to pick out who balled out and who should have stayed home. Let me go over the criteria of making my list, though it’s very simple. You can only win Stud of the week for the highest division you play in unless you play a different position in another division, but to win Dud of the week you can get it no matter how many divisions you play in and it doesn’t have to be the highest division you play in. Hope that clears it up for everyone. Now to this week’s winners and losers.

 

Studs

 

Division 1

- Vinny Gualano in his 2 games went 41 of 58 for 406 yards, 9 TDs, 3 1point converts, 2 2point converts and ran once for 8 yards. On defense he made 2 tackles and had 1 sack.

 

Division 2

- Gabriel Guérette caught 6 passes for 92 yards and 3 TDs. On defense he made 2 tackles and had 1 pick.

 

Division 3

- Olivier Watier played 2 games and was 37 of 56 for 337 yards, 7 TDs, 3 1point converts. He also ran 3 times for 60 yards and 1 TD. On defense Oliver made 1 tackle which was a sack.

 

Duds

 

Division 1

- David Brisson for only scoring 12 points in each of your games when last year you averaged 35 a game.  

 

Division 2

- The entire defense for CIA Fusion for giving up a late TD drive after not giving up any yards most of the game.

 

Division 3

- Jason De Barros who threw 3 picks, no TDs, and completed 8 of 15 passes for 65 yards.

 

Those are the winners for week 1. You still have plenty of time to crack my list, but remember you must ball out and put up some crazy numbers or just come out and lollipop snuggle the bed. I’ll leave it up to you.

 

Predictions

 

Here we go again where I get to tell you who is winning this week. Last week I went 11 of 18 which really isn’t bad considering it’s week 1. Now for this week’s picks and as always my picks are in bold.

 

Division 1

 

Red Cats vs The Tourist

- Loads of Experience

 

Red’not’Skins vs Young Old Timers

- Better chemistry

 

The Tourist vs Double Dippers

- Can’t afford to go 0-3

 

Kiss my Pass vs Pookie Bears

- Experience

 

Practice Squad vs Red’not’Skins

- Knowledge and Experience

 

Master Chiefs vs Inlaws

- More top end talent

 

Inlaws vs Villains

- Consistency

 

Division 2

 

City Boys vs Bandits

- Stronger roster

 

Cold TDs vs Team Rocket 

- Speed

 

CIA Fusion vs Show mw them TDs

- Experience

 

Southsiders vs Cold TDs

- QB play

 

City Boys vs Ball Hawks

- Athleticism

 

Show Me Them TDs vs Punks

- Youth and energy

 

Division 3

 

Blue Ballers vs Tropic Thunder

- Experience

 

Les Nomades vs Blue Badgers

- Roster (ed’s note: Damn)

 

Action Squad vs Belloz in Business

- Best player on field

 

Phoenix vs Free Agent #1 NA

- I don’t pick my team’s games

 

Grizzlies vs Cheetahs

- McSweeny

 

Good luck to everyone playing this week.

 

Power Rankings

 

Going into the season and not know every team my rankings for the first few weeks will be all over the place until I get to know the teams better or a team really separates themselves from the rest.

 

Division 1

#1- Master Chiefs

#2- Inlaws

#3- Practice Squad

 

Division 2

#1- Team Rocket

#2- Ball Hawks

#3- City Boys

 

Division 3

#1- Blue Badgers

#2- Tropic Thunder

#3- Action Squad

 

Those are my rankings after week 1 being played. We all know that next week my list will be different.

 

Final Thoughts

 

I’m going to keep this short and right to the point. With the wintertime rules in effect, to save time at the start of the game captains should have their roster set so we can start on time. My suggestion for teams is to have your team show up 15 minutes before the game starts so you aren’t running around looking for players at the last minute.

This week I did get a chance to speak with the staff over at Stinger dome while they were picking up garbage left behind. Every season (Spring, fall or Winter) we tend not to pick up our empty bottles and just assume someone else will do it for us and that’s not cool. Pick up your own trash, we are all adults.

Now for my weekly reminder. We are playing a game, so go out and have fun. Just because you dominate a flag game on a Saturday night no one is showing up to offer you a contract. Go have fun and see you all Saturday. 

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