It was a beauty day for some football last Saturday. Some teams are starting to show that they might be real competitors and some are looking like duds. We have a few teams that are undefeated and a few still looking for that first win. I am starting to wonder if we will have any team go undefeated or have a winless team. I know it’s early to be thinking that but it’s my article and these are my thoughts.
Game Recaps
Krakens vs KOLB
This one had all the makings of being a great game from what was seen the previous week. Both teams have a high scoring offense which always makes for an exciting game. Everyone knows what the Krakens bring to the table and people are really unsure about KOLB. The game was close to start off each team took their first possession down and scored, then both teams defense stepped up with Carmelo getting an interception off of Jon who recently got a haircut, missed that last week should have been breaking news. Even with the extra possession the Krakens weren’t able to take advantage. Both teams punted back and forth, but on the next drive the Krakens had the ball and Max was able to step in front of a pass and took it back for 6 to give KOLB the lead. The Krakens were able to get there sh*t together and started rolling after that wake up call. KOLB did not know what to do about Carmelo on defense. Keep the ball away from him, he had not 1, not 2, but 3 interceptions! Yes, one of those balls was under thrown and another was on the last play of the game, but come on this is your third game back after 2+ years away and you still got 3. Way to go Carmelo! Huge addition for the Krakens this off season. For KOLB, between Max and Vincent they had 11 catches for 121 yards with 1 TD. If they want to keep on winning they will need to find a third guy or someone else needs to step up. For the Krakens even without Smuda being there you have 3 guy with at least 5 catches and over 60 yards. Only 2 guys scored but had 5 TDs. Good job guys, it was a real close game up until half time when Krakens were able to make a few adjustments. That will come with experience for KOLB.
OG Panthers vs Pirates
Yes, I was there to watch this one and it wasn’t even close, but the Pirates did fight hard right up to the last whistle. I want everyone to know that, yes, the Pirates aren’t that good of a team right now, but they play hard and surprisingly have a decent defense. These guys are new to the game and I commend them on trying to play in Division 1, but you need to find a young stud that can be your workhorse and play all game long. As for OG, they came out and played a solid game. Charles was able to put up good numbers 6 TDs with 1 interception. His favourite target was Dufour with 8 catches for 112 yards and yes 4 TDs. He also seemed to want to get the ball to Dagher, who had 7 catches for 88 yards with 1 TD. On the other side, Joel had a very tough day out there 6 interceptions. The guy hasn’t found his comfort zone yet, he needs to find out who his go to guy is. I have noticed that when he throws the ball it looks a little more like he is shot putting the ball then allowing the ball to come out of his hand smoothly. Defensively for OG it was an all-around performance: 2 Sacks from Terry, 2 INTs each from Dagher & Love, 1 pick from Joel & Simon each for a total of 6. Pirates have a lot of guys that swarm so they seem to know how to tackle well, if these guys had some more speed I feel a few of those tackles could have been turned into picks. I still think in a few weeks these guys won’t be half bad. The question I have about his game is: OG are they this good or was it just a good game against the Pirates. If OG is this good, will they be able to keep it up all year? Should Pirates be this bad it will be a long season that I hope teams won’t run up the score since it’s all about having fun. Pirates, you can and maybe should ask for a few pointers from some of the guys that have been around for a while. Good luck need week guys.
Next Week’s GotW: OG Panthers vs Revolucion
This one is a matchup between two 1-1 record teams going in opposite directions. OG coming off an impressive victory while Revolution coming off a disappointing loss. What intrigues me is who will be playing QB for Revolucion. Will it be Ben or Raph? Both bring something different to the table. If I’m Terry I would much rather rush Ben as he is more stay in the pocket but takes the snap really far back. From a team stand point both are equally good, but Raph has the legs to get outside and force guys to come up which leaves someone open in the back. OG needs to keep an eye on JC he is their best player but that doesn’t mean the rest of them are slouches except maybe Raph. LOL. As for Revolucion, JC will need to get after the QB quickly and not allow Charles to get to his 2nd and 3rd read. Dufour is the guy to watch, but there are a few other guys who can hurt you. Dagher, Terry some of the guys from last season haven’t put up big numbers yet but they are solid so don’t sleep on them. I really hope I get to see this one first hand it will be a fun one to watch.
Crystal Ball (Picks of the Week)
In case anyone isn’t keeping track, I went 3 for 4 again last week. For the season I’m at 6 for 8, 75% isn’t so bad soon I see it getting to 100% (Ed’s note: literally impossible).
Krakens vs Locomotion Krakens
Pirates vs Trollers No pick
Outlaws vs KOLB KOLB (upset pick)
Revolucion vs OG Panthers Revolucion
Gros Coqs vs Deep Threat Gros Coqs
With my final thought this week let’s keep it classy and act like you’ve been there before. As a ref we don’t want to be throwing unsportsmanlike penalties and an ejection on last plays of the game. It doesn’t look good for you when that happens, doesn’t matter how well you played during the game this will always overshadow what you have done. Don’t be that guy. That’s a reputation you don’t want to get. Remember go out and have fun and good luck to every team on Saturday.
