FAT DADDY CA$H’S CORNER
Welcome to the first offering of FDC’s game breakdowns. These are designed to entertain and are just one man’s opinion. I hope they spark conversation, disagreements, good-natured trash talk and all that good stuff.
For those that were familiar with my write-ups from AAA#1, I’m going to be adding some new tweaks and twists. There will now be two parts to each week’s offering, one recapping the games just played (in brief, with highlights and Awards), the second part being the more traditional breakdown/prediction segment.
In order to make this the most interactive it can be, I’d like to add quotes, press releases or straight trash talk to the breakdowns. In order for that to happen, I need help from you guys. If you have something you want to add to the breakdowns, a quote you want to say (either as your player or agent or GM or owner), PM me and I’ll be sure to ad it. Otherwise, I fully intend to make a bunch of shit up.
Since it’s Week 1, there obviously won’t be any re-caps this week. Instead I’ve done a brief breakdown of each team and my overall assessment with how their off-season went.
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WEEK 1 GAME PREVIEWS
PARIS MUSKETEERS (0-0) at ROTTERDAM ROUGHNECKS (0-0)
The Musketeers
Despite their hot start last season, the Musketeers struggled against the top teams in Zeta and limped to a 9-7 finish that placed them outside of the playoff bubble. The only playoff team they managed to beat last year was in fact the Roughnecks in Week 2.
If the Musketeers are going to turn things around this year, they are going to need to get more production from their offense. The play at the QB position has been spotty at best as starter Christian Soldier only broke the 200-yard barrier twice. Key to improving the passing game will be the emergence of HB Johnny Flash. Flash “flashed” his talents at the end of Season 3 as he compiled 383 yards and 5 TDs during the final three regular season games. The good rushing continued in the preseason as Flash raced for 138 yards and 4 TDs in the opening scrimmage. The Musketeers are going to need Flash to be explosive this season and take pressure off the passing game, freeing up room for WR Terrell Owens and TE Golden Palace to operate. Central to this plan will be the play of the offensive line. As a whole, the Musketeers run a skeleton crew, with the bare minimum of depth. In order to avoid being worn out against the top opponents, Paris is going to have to play keep away and control the tempo. That will be impossible without a great season from Flash.
Defensively, the Musketeers have brought in three new starters to bolster their play. Defensive Tackles Tokin’ DaReefer and Gavin Rogus were plucked from the Free Agent pile to help stop the run. But the key prize in free agency was LB Steven Carp who had 94 tackles and 3 FF in USA AA#2 last season. Manning the LOLB position, Carp will be called upon to anchor the run defense of the Musketeers. Like the offensive side of the ball, the defense has little depth and will be at risk of wearing out if the new defensive pieces aren’t as good as advertised.
The Roughnecks
The Roughnecks relied on the arm of QB Corey Smith to earn a 10-6 record and a 7th seed in the playoffs last season. Despite a limited number of weapons, Smith lit up Zeta, compiling over 5,000 yards and 37 TDs. WRs Blake Smith had 14 of those TDs and over 1,800 yards receiving. Combined with WR Dennis Gentry, the Roughnecks rode roughshod over plenty of secondaries last season. HB Brady Smith did not have a great year on the ground as far as yardage is concerned, but he did account for 21 rushing TDs, helping the offense maintain some balance and preventing teams from focusing solely on stopping the Smith brothers.
Despite the highflying aerial assault launched by the Roughnecks in Season 3, they were prone to committing costly turnovers. Corey Smith’s gaudy TD numbers are dampened by the 29 INTs he tossed. Six of those INTs came during the Week 2 showdown with Paris last season. No doubt those numbers will be on the QB’s mind when he lines up against the Musketeers. If the Roughnecks are going to take the next step, they’re going to have to learn how to protect the football.
Defensively, DE Dadi Longstroke who’s coming off a 13-sack season leads the Roughnecks. The pressure applied by Longstroke helped bolster the pass defense as CB Brett McDonald racked up 10 INTs. If the defense can take another step forward, the Roughnecks could join the ranks of the elite teams in Zeta.
Prediction:
The Roughnecks have too much offense for the Musketeers to match. The new defensive additions won’t help Paris contain WR Blake Smith or the high-flying passing attack. With QB Christian Soldier being less than average, Paris won’t be able to keep up if the game turns into a shootout. Expect the Roughnecks to make a statement in this one as they roll to a 26-6 victory.
MULTIPLE SCORGASMS (0-0) at REYKJAVIK AGGIES (0-0)
The Scorgasms
The Scorgasms had a rough Season 3 as they compiled a 5-11 record and failed to challenge for a playoff birth.
A big part of the problem was located under center as QB Jo’ Moxon was atrocious in Season 3, throwing 42 INTs to just 11 TDs en route to a 47.1 QB rating. Moxon was so bad it shocked even him that he was asked to come back for Season 4. According to Moxon, “I kinda figured I’d be going back to work in the glue factory, but coach called and said I’m going to start again this season. I asked him twice if he was kidding. He wasn’t.” The front office of the Scorgasms is hedging their bets however. During the off-season, QB Greg Mcelroy was brought in from USA A#2 to challenge for the starting job.
QB wasn’t the only position the front office addressed this off-season. Determined to give Moxon the best shot they can, The Scorgasms landed a handful of offensive Free Agents designed to help out the horrific passing attack. The lynchpin of the free agent crop is TE Michael Howat who comes to WEPL from USA Pro. The receiving TE should give Moxon a target in the middle seam and help with edge blocking for HB Randy Watson. Trinton Sturdivant will be the new LT for the Scorgasms, coming from the Canadian Pro League. The mammoth free agent will be counted upon to keep Moxon off his back. FB T. Babs and WR Spider Man were also brought in to help bolster the offensive attack. Despite these additions, the key to changing the offensive fortunes of the Scorgasms lies upon Randy Watson’s shoulders. The skilled HB put up over 800 yards last season despite the ineptitude of the offensive unit. So far in the pre-season, Watson has looked the part, racking up over 200 yards in each outing. If Sturdivant and Babs can continue to open up more holes, Watson could help take the pressure off Moxon and help the team find some more Ws.
Defensively the Scorgasms return the same starting lineup from Season 3. Despite the 5-11 record, the defense was rather stout last season and should be able to improve in Season 4. The strength of the defense lies in the nifty LB corps. With the added defensive AI, the unit should be able to compensate for the lack of weapons on the offensive side of the ball and help control the tempo. Or at least, that’s the plan.
The Aggies
Reykjavik nabbed a 5th seed with a 12-4 record in Season 3, but after a first round defeat to the Billy Goats, they are not content with just making the playoffs this season.
Offensively, the Aggies are led by their dual HBs Andre Rudzinski and Super the Squirrel. Together the star HBs amassed over 2,500 yards rushing and 32 TDs despite a below average passing attack. The front office of the Aggies made some moves this off- season to supplement the offensive attack, bringing in Van Horne to man the LT position and a new stud WR, Ronnie McKraken. The Aggies hope that McKraken will improve on his 1,170 yard 7 TD season last year in South America AAA#2. Truth is, if McKraken can just match those numbers, it will do wonders for the Aggies’ offense. The more weapons QB Josh McNamara has at his disposal, the more room Rudzinski and Squirrel will have to run.
Three new starters on the defensive side of the ball represent the key to the Aggies’ season. DT Fat Bahstard joins DE Boozer Williams on what was already a stout defensive line. The two new linemen will be called upon to eat up blockers, allowing the Aggies’ LBs to roam free and make tackles. The third, and most prized free agent addition, is CB Beavis Cox who logged 94 tackles and 12 INTs in Canadian AAA#2 last season. The addition of Cox is welcome news to stud CB Lemar Houston who racked up 10 INTs last year. With Beavis in the lineup, teams will not be able to avoid Houston and thus he should get even more balls thrown his way this season and have more chances to make plays.
The additions on defense add plenty of bite to an already impressive group. The added depth and talent should serve the Aggies well in Season 4 as they look to not only make the playoffs, but challenge for a trophy.
Prediction:
The Scorgasms have scored points in bunches in the pre-season, displaying a newfound appreciation for the running game. However, the pre-season is just that – pre-season. When the real bullets start to fly, things change. The Aggies are far more balanced and have the ability to take away the Scorgasm rushing attack. If Watson is shut down, how reliable is Moxon? My guess, not so reliable. Still, the Scorgasms will make a game of it but ultimately the Aggies will win a closer than expected game, 24-13.
OSLO BERSERKERS (0-0) at BARI BARRACUDAS (0-0)
The Berserkers
Oslo turned in a 9-7 season last year, good enough for the 8th seed. However, due to a lack of depth and the reliance of CPU players at several key spots, the Berserkers will have serious trouble exceeding or even matching their record from Season 3.
Offensively, the Berserkers signed HB Edgerrin Jones-Drew to be their new running back. The rookie put up 807 yards and 6 TDs in South America AAA#1 last season and will be counted on to exceed those numbers in WEPL. It’s a tall order to fill, but a necessary one as the Berserkers will need a sound running game to take pressure off of QB Chad Bennett who tossed an alarming number of INTs last year (33). Though, with the lack of weapons at WR, it’s hard to fault Bennett. The front office has done a poor job of finding the necessary bodies and talent to fill out the roster – a mistake that will not only cost the offense, but the team as a whole.
The lack of offensive weaponry is matched only by the lack of bite in the Berserker defense. With zero human Defensive Ends on the roster and only two human CBs, the Berserkers are in for a long season. The defense boasts only two stars, LOLB Devin Polizzotti and CB Darnell Hood. In order for the Berserkers to have any hope of shutting opponents down this season, they are going to have to rely on extraordinary performances from these two players as well as Vince Lombardi level coaching from their Defensive Coordinator. Based on their performance in the pre-season so far, that’s asking for a lot.
It’s going to be a long season in Oslo.
The Barracudas
Bari struggled through a painful 4-12 Season 3, one rich with internal strife and sabotage. Despite the hard times, the front office has launched a mighty effort to rebuild the Barracudas and it should pay dividends this season.
Offensively, the changes started at the top. A new QB, Shane Falco Jr., will lead the Barracudas onto the field while new HB Clinton Portis will split time with hold over Mack Jones. C Ken Norton Jr. will be the new pivot man and will add much needed pop to the offensive line that includes new G Bryan Brickwall. The final piece of the offensive makeover is the addition of explosive WR Michael Westbrook who racked up 1,134 yards and 9 TDs last season in Southeast Asia Pro. The key to the offensive success will rest on Falco’s transition. In USA BBB last season he threw 23 INTs and only 10 TDs – numbers that will have to improve dramatically in order to be competitive in WEPL. But with plenty of targets to throw to and two good HBs, Falco will have no excuses not to improve on those numbers.
Much of the defensive rebuilding began mid-season last year, but the front office completed the transformation with three key signings. DT Hang Tulo, MLB Daniel Ruettiger and CB Deion Sanders all join the Barracudas from Southeast Asia Pro and will be counted on to bolster the fortunes of the entire unit. Ruettiger is coming off a solid 71-tackle season wherein he racked up 2 sacks and 2 INTs. But the star of the crop is Sanders who had 104 tackles, 8 INTs and 30 PDs. If the three amigos from SEAP can match their efforts from a year ago, the Barracudas will pack a much more powerful bite in Season 4.
Prediction:
Last season the Berserkers rolled to a 48-7 victory over the depleted Barracudas. This time, the Barracudas are loaded and the Berserkers are the ones who are depleted. The Barracudas are far more talented on paper, however they have a serious chemistry problem due to the wholesale changes made over the past several weeks. Still, the talent on the field should be enough to get by this week. Barracudas start the season off right with a 19-0 win.
VALENCIA BILLY GOATS (0-0) at DFOOLS ALLSTARS (0-0)
The Billy Goats
Valencia capped off a 12-4 regular season by advancing to the Conference Championship game, upsetting the number 1 seeded HEAT along the way. Despite the deep playoff run, the Billy Goats still have a bad taste in their mouths after Korb pounded them 34-7 in the Championship game.
Not satisfied with sitting still, the Billy Goats made it a priority to upgrade the passing attack by adding star WR Double Notted. Notted is coming off of a fabulous season in which he put up 2,435 yards and 23 TDs. The speedster joins an already potent WR corps led by Hroth Gar and Gren Del. WR Tinkle Pants is yet another new addition to the WR group and should provide plenty of depth. The final piece of the offensive puzzle is newly acquired TE Kaiser Soze who, with Dingus Jabronie, should give QB Beo Wulf plenty of help in the middle zones. The new free agents will not only make Wulf’s life easier, but they should help HB Tazmanian Devil improve his own numbers. The HB hit pay dirt 17 times last season but only managed 962 yards rushing. With an improved passing attack, expect those numbers to escalate.
Defensively, their great LB corps and the dynamic playmaking of CB Ghost Buster lead The Billy Goats. The secondary’s depth is a strong suit that will give plenty of offensive coordinators nightmares this season. The only weak link on the unit is their lack of depth on the DL. Still, the game plan for the Billy Goats will clearly be to put up enough points on offense that their opponents won’t be able to wear down the men in the trenches with a sustained rushing attack. The Billy Goats have all the pieces in place for another deep playoff run.
The Allstars
Season 3 was not kind to DFools as they barely avoided relegation with a 4-12 record. The front office has made little changes to the roster, instead relying on developing their own players to turn around the franchise’s fortunes.
Improvement needs to begin under center with QB Shane Tessem. Last season the QB was accurate in compiling close to 3,000 yards but was only able to find the end zone 9 times. Improving on those numbers will be the key to a successful season. Unfortunately, that goal will be difficult to accomplish with only three quality receivers on the roster. The lack of targets will put even more pressure on HBs Shaun Curry and Emilio Cabral. Both HBs played well last season but need to improve their production even more to give the Allstars a fighting chance.
Defensively, the best player on the roster is SS Oliver Tullock. Tullock had a brilliant season last year on a doomed defense. He racked up 5 INTs while amassing 108 tackles. Sadly, when your SS leads the team in tackles, you know you’ve had a rough year. With an alarming amount of sub-par players on the defensive side of the ball, the Allstars are going to have problems stopping teams and avoiding relegation. It’s going to be a long, long season for the Allstars.
Prediction:
This is the tale of two cities. The Billy Goats are a legitimate title contender while the Allstars are just pretenders. Expect the Billy Goats to make a statement in this one as they roll to a 35-0 win.
ROHRHEIM STAMPEDE (0-0) at STOCKHOLM MEATBALLS (0-0)
The Stampede
Rohrheim’s 13-3 season came crashing down in the first round of the playoffs against the eventual Conference champion Destroyers. The 19-3 defeat still gives the Stampede nightmares and they are anxious to get back on the field and get the monkey off their backs.
Last season the Stampede was efficient but not explosive offensively. During the off-season, the front office made two key moves to address that deficiency. WR Sebastian Jackson was brought in to add a kick to the Stampede’s passing attack. Jackson will be expected to draw coverage away from fellow WRs Shawn Wellington and Floyd Smirts, allowing QB Gunn Slinger the opportunity to improve on his numbers from Season 3. The second addition was HB Hugh Janus who rushed for over 1,000 yards and had 9 TDs last season. Janus will join HB Ironhead Hayes in the backfield and hopefully give the Stampede more diversity in their offensive attack.
There weren’t many teams better defensively than the Stampede last season, and this year should be more of the same. Anchored by two nifty DEs John Abraham and Dan DanVoi, the defensive front seven is lethal to opposing rushing attacks. The secondary is equally as deep and disruptive, able to put 6 quality CBs on the field at any given time, allowing the defensive coordinator to take more risks with the blitz packages. The depth and talent on the defensive side of the ball will make the Stampede a tough team to beat for anyone in WEPL.
The Meatballs
Stockholm makes their debut in WEPL after closing out a 15-1 season with the AAA#1 Championship trophy.
Offensively the Meatballs are anchored by their powerful offensive line and triple headed rushing attack. C Snot Dangler takes pride in not only dominating opposing NTs, but in his ability to eat his own body weight in wings before every game. The development of QB Tyrone Slothrop in Season 3 allowed the Meatballs to expand offensively and keep opponents off guard. If they are going to have success this season, they will need Slothrop to continue his development and get similar performances from TE Brick Esshaus and WR Willie Banks.
The Meatballs bread and butter however is found in the stout play of their defense. Last season they terrorized AAA#1 with a fierce pass rush and spectacular secondary. DT Jock Strap and DE Gut Maximus will look to improve upon their Pro Bowl numbers from last season while MLB Jack Diesel sets the tone in the middle. With depth at nearly every position, the Meatballs can get rested players on the field at all times, allowing them to take advantage of their opponents’ mistakes. They’ll need that trend to continue if they hope to make the playoffs in WEPL.
Prediction:
Both teams match up well on paper. With both teams boasting powerful defenses, it should be a good, old-fashioned brawl in The Meatball Pan this week. Both teams have the element of surprise on their side as neither is familiar with the other, but the Meatballs have a lot more to prove to the Conference than the Stampede. Expect a low scoring affair that will boil down to a timely turnover. In the end, I have to give the edge to the veterans. The Stampede win a close one, 13-9.
SANDFORD POLICEMAN (0-0) at OXFORD EAGLES (0-0)
The Policeman
After a 3-13 season, the Policeman have been gutted and new team owner Rodin will bring over his USA BBB#3 Experience to WEPL. With a massive rebuilding process ahead, there’s not much to be optimistic about or to write, as relegation seems to be the most likely outcome this season. Still, we wish Rodin and the Policeman (or whatever they soon will be named) good luck. Hopefully it won’t be too painful of a process.
The Eagles
Oxford finished last season 8-8 and looking in from the outside on the playoff picture.
Offensively, the front office of the Eagles bolstered the trenches by adding new LT Randy Anchor. The powerful tackle should provide plenty of protection for QB Max Wagner as he looks to improve on his 17 TD season. HB Big Fakecanz was also signed this past off-season to bolster the rushing attack. Together with Willy Wanker and Donald Williams, the Eagles will now have three HBs capable of carrying the load. WR Nick Speedyfast was a late addition to the WR corps, providing the Eagles with a solid 4th option. It will be interesting to see what sort of offensive identity the Eagles forge this season, but the success or failure of the unit rests on Wagner’s shoulders. They will only go as far as he can carry them.
On the defensive side of the ball, LB Rocky Hornsucker will continue to set the tone. The LB was dominant last season, amassing 125 tackles and 3 INTs. With the help of Fractured Life and Fredo Corleone, Hornsucker will lead one of Zeta’s most talented LB corps into battle every week. The rest of the defense is solid as well as the Eagles boast two good defensive ends and a playmaker in the secondary in the form of CB Cock Blocker. SS Freak McNasty will be counted on to build upon the great numbers he put up last season and help take the Eagle’s defense to the next level.
While the defense looks solid, the Eagles aren’t sure what they have on offense just yet. If the new pieces fit together as nicely as they should, they could improve upon their record from last season.
Prediction:
Against a rebuilding team, the outcome isn’t in doubt. The Eagles will win and it will be ugly. The real season begins in Week 2 when Oxford travels to Troll Cave.
MA TROLLS (0-0) at RIVALS MAINBOARD PIMPS (0-0)
The Trolls
A 13-3 record was good enough to lock up the 2nd seed last season for the Trolls. But after a first round victory over Rotterdam, the Trolls’ season came to an end at the hand of the Destroyers.
QB JJ Flicker had a monster year, passing for 4,538 yards and 27 TDs while leading one of the most explosive offenses in Zeta. Rather than rest on their laurels, the front office of the Trolls went out to improve upon their already top-notch passing attack signing star WR Jeremy Mann who put up over 1,200 yards and hauled in 10 TDs in Oceania Pro last season. The addition of Mann should make the passing attack even more potent. While Mann will step into the starting role, the Trolls added another WR to their stable when they signed Smoky Miracle. Miracle will provide depth to an already deep position. With all these new toys at his disposal, Flicker has to feel like a kid left alone in Santa’s workshop. But he’s not alone in his joy. HB Victor Stagnetty has to be drooling at the prospects of facing less 8 man fronts this season as the improved passing attack should allow him to exceed the 14 TDs he racked up last season.
Defensively, it starts up front for the Trolls with their star DEs Drako BA and Capn Crunch who combined for 35 sacks last season. New additions to the LB and CB corps should provide depth and playmaking ability. Both LB Solnos Vintas and CB Leman Russ join the team from Oceania Pro and should provide even more depth for a deep defensive unit. Boasting great depth and balance, the Troll defense should be able to utilize the new Defensive AI to strengthen what was already one of the Conference’s top defensive units. If the offensive additions live up to the hype, expect the Trolls to take a massive step forward this season, as their defense is already championship caliber.
The Pimps
Brats. Cocky. Troublemakers. Defiant. Unruly. Foul-mouthed. All these are labels that have been (unjustly) thrust upon the Pimps by many in WEPL forums. However, there’s one adjective that is often overlooked: Champions. The Pimps come into WEPL carrying the AAA#2 Championship trophy on their backs and an attitude to match. Despite what those quick to judge posters of WEPL may think, the Pimps don’t just talk the talk, they walk the walk.
The Pimps literally walked through opponents last year as their dual headed rushing attacked combined for 3,275 yards and 34 TDs. HBs Graig Cooper and Lee Suggs will look to continue their dominance in the pros – however it won’t be up to them. Rather, it will be up to the Pimps’ gargantuan offensive line. With great depth throughout the line, the Pimps record rests in the ability of the big men up front to be as dominant as they were in AAA. Due to the astounding lack of depth on the D-Lines that most WEPL teams are sporting this season, the Pimps should be able to pimp-slap most opposing defenses this year.
Just as they do on offense, the men on the line dominate the Pimps’ defense. Their three Defensive Ends combined for 33 sacks last season while the deep DT rotation kept blockers from reaching the second level, allowing the Pimp LBs to make clean tackles. With the new tweaks to the AI, the Pimps’ should be able to take advantage of the new system and continue their dominance in the trenches. This will position them nicely for a deep playoff run.
Prediction:
This is a match up of two of the deeper teams in Zeta and should provide plenty of fireworks – and not all of them from T-Noles’ mouth. The Pimps secondary will be tested as QB Flicker looks to get his new weapons involved early. However, this game will be won in the trenches. Unfortunately for the Trolls, that’s where the Pimps are the strongest. Expect a close game but ultimately a Pimps’ victory, 19-17.
***GAME OF THE WEEK***
KORB DESTROYERS (0-0) at FRANKFURT HEAT (0-0)
The Destroyers
After winning the Conference title as the 6th seed last year, Korb’s stock is at an all time high. Just as they did in AAA#2 two seasons ago, the Destroyers laid back in regular season only to play their best when the games counted the most.
Despite lacking any superstar playmakers, the Korb offense scored points in bunches towards the end of last season – a trend that carried them through a tough playoff draw. Anchored by a terrific offensive line, the Destroyers found ways to score, keeping defenses off balance with their ability to pass and run. This off-season, the offense added a new HB to the mix, Liquid Motion. The speed back had trouble holding onto the football in Oceania AAA#1 last season, something the Destroyers hope he has cured. Motion will spell starting back Hot Runner who will be looking to improve upon his 868 yard 11 TD season.
Stout defensive play has been the Destroyer hallmark for the past two seasons and one that should continue in Season 4. Led by the dynamic playmaking of CBs Blanket Coverage and Nick Windgassen (26 INTs combined last season), Korb boasts a deep defensive unit with sideline-to-sideline speed. The new defensive tactics should play into all of Korb’s strengths, making them an even more imposing defensive foe this season.
The HEAT
A 15-1 debut performance in WEPL wasn’t enough to satisfy the championship hungry HEAT. After a heartbreaking second round playoff loss, the HEAT are out to finish the job in Season 4.
Like the other successful AAA teams, the HEAT learned to rely upon great depth along the offensive line to create a successful offense. While the solid quarterbacking of Jimmy Jimmy Clausen gets most of the press, it’s the blocking of the O-Line that really keeps the chains moving in Frankfurt. Last season the HEAT relied upon ball control and consistency to pile up the wins. The tweaks to the offensive AI should allow the HEAT to continue their style of play with great results.
DE Ed Stinson dominated opposing offensive lines last year as he compiled 25 sacks all by his lonesome. Meanwhile, big plays were turned in by CB Dee Morely who led the team with 12 INTs and 33 PDs. Behind the two superstars, the rest of the HEAT defense is solid and deep. A strong secondary and relentless pass rush should provide the D with plenty of opportunities to cause turnovers and game changing plays. A deep CB corps will allow the defense to take chances with blitzes and newly designed plays without having to worry about getting burned deep. This defensive freedom should help the HEAT mount another run at the trophy.
Prediction:
Most prognosticators are ready to hand Korb yet another Zeta trophy before the season even begins, and they may not be wrong. The HEAT have managed to slip down people’s charts and off some people’s radars – this would be a mistake in my book. The HEAT are still a dangerous team with great coaching and management. To me, these are the two best teams in Zeta right now and the winner of this game will gain a big leg up on clinching the number 1 seed.
With both teams relying on their defense to set the tone, expect a low scoring affair. Both teams are still tinkering with the new AI and playbooks meaning that this game could boil down to one timely turnover or mistake. Call me crazy, but I like the HEAT in this one. Korb is still a team to be reckoned with, but I see the HEAT pulling out a defensive win, 16-6.
Welcome to the first offering of FDC’s game breakdowns. These are designed to entertain and are just one man’s opinion. I hope they spark conversation, disagreements, good-natured trash talk and all that good stuff.
For those that were familiar with my write-ups from AAA#1, I’m going to be adding some new tweaks and twists. There will now be two parts to each week’s offering, one recapping the games just played (in brief, with highlights and Awards), the second part being the more traditional breakdown/prediction segment.
In order to make this the most interactive it can be, I’d like to add quotes, press releases or straight trash talk to the breakdowns. In order for that to happen, I need help from you guys. If you have something you want to add to the breakdowns, a quote you want to say (either as your player or agent or GM or owner), PM me and I’ll be sure to ad it. Otherwise, I fully intend to make a bunch of shit up.
Since it’s Week 1, there obviously won’t be any re-caps this week. Instead I’ve done a brief breakdown of each team and my overall assessment with how their off-season went.
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WEEK 1 GAME PREVIEWS
PARIS MUSKETEERS (0-0) at ROTTERDAM ROUGHNECKS (0-0)
The Musketeers
Despite their hot start last season, the Musketeers struggled against the top teams in Zeta and limped to a 9-7 finish that placed them outside of the playoff bubble. The only playoff team they managed to beat last year was in fact the Roughnecks in Week 2.
If the Musketeers are going to turn things around this year, they are going to need to get more production from their offense. The play at the QB position has been spotty at best as starter Christian Soldier only broke the 200-yard barrier twice. Key to improving the passing game will be the emergence of HB Johnny Flash. Flash “flashed” his talents at the end of Season 3 as he compiled 383 yards and 5 TDs during the final three regular season games. The good rushing continued in the preseason as Flash raced for 138 yards and 4 TDs in the opening scrimmage. The Musketeers are going to need Flash to be explosive this season and take pressure off the passing game, freeing up room for WR Terrell Owens and TE Golden Palace to operate. Central to this plan will be the play of the offensive line. As a whole, the Musketeers run a skeleton crew, with the bare minimum of depth. In order to avoid being worn out against the top opponents, Paris is going to have to play keep away and control the tempo. That will be impossible without a great season from Flash.
Defensively, the Musketeers have brought in three new starters to bolster their play. Defensive Tackles Tokin’ DaReefer and Gavin Rogus were plucked from the Free Agent pile to help stop the run. But the key prize in free agency was LB Steven Carp who had 94 tackles and 3 FF in USA AA#2 last season. Manning the LOLB position, Carp will be called upon to anchor the run defense of the Musketeers. Like the offensive side of the ball, the defense has little depth and will be at risk of wearing out if the new defensive pieces aren’t as good as advertised.
The Roughnecks
The Roughnecks relied on the arm of QB Corey Smith to earn a 10-6 record and a 7th seed in the playoffs last season. Despite a limited number of weapons, Smith lit up Zeta, compiling over 5,000 yards and 37 TDs. WRs Blake Smith had 14 of those TDs and over 1,800 yards receiving. Combined with WR Dennis Gentry, the Roughnecks rode roughshod over plenty of secondaries last season. HB Brady Smith did not have a great year on the ground as far as yardage is concerned, but he did account for 21 rushing TDs, helping the offense maintain some balance and preventing teams from focusing solely on stopping the Smith brothers.
Despite the highflying aerial assault launched by the Roughnecks in Season 3, they were prone to committing costly turnovers. Corey Smith’s gaudy TD numbers are dampened by the 29 INTs he tossed. Six of those INTs came during the Week 2 showdown with Paris last season. No doubt those numbers will be on the QB’s mind when he lines up against the Musketeers. If the Roughnecks are going to take the next step, they’re going to have to learn how to protect the football.
Defensively, DE Dadi Longstroke who’s coming off a 13-sack season leads the Roughnecks. The pressure applied by Longstroke helped bolster the pass defense as CB Brett McDonald racked up 10 INTs. If the defense can take another step forward, the Roughnecks could join the ranks of the elite teams in Zeta.
Prediction:
The Roughnecks have too much offense for the Musketeers to match. The new defensive additions won’t help Paris contain WR Blake Smith or the high-flying passing attack. With QB Christian Soldier being less than average, Paris won’t be able to keep up if the game turns into a shootout. Expect the Roughnecks to make a statement in this one as they roll to a 26-6 victory.
MULTIPLE SCORGASMS (0-0) at REYKJAVIK AGGIES (0-0)
The Scorgasms
The Scorgasms had a rough Season 3 as they compiled a 5-11 record and failed to challenge for a playoff birth.
A big part of the problem was located under center as QB Jo’ Moxon was atrocious in Season 3, throwing 42 INTs to just 11 TDs en route to a 47.1 QB rating. Moxon was so bad it shocked even him that he was asked to come back for Season 4. According to Moxon, “I kinda figured I’d be going back to work in the glue factory, but coach called and said I’m going to start again this season. I asked him twice if he was kidding. He wasn’t.” The front office of the Scorgasms is hedging their bets however. During the off-season, QB Greg Mcelroy was brought in from USA A#2 to challenge for the starting job.
QB wasn’t the only position the front office addressed this off-season. Determined to give Moxon the best shot they can, The Scorgasms landed a handful of offensive Free Agents designed to help out the horrific passing attack. The lynchpin of the free agent crop is TE Michael Howat who comes to WEPL from USA Pro. The receiving TE should give Moxon a target in the middle seam and help with edge blocking for HB Randy Watson. Trinton Sturdivant will be the new LT for the Scorgasms, coming from the Canadian Pro League. The mammoth free agent will be counted upon to keep Moxon off his back. FB T. Babs and WR Spider Man were also brought in to help bolster the offensive attack. Despite these additions, the key to changing the offensive fortunes of the Scorgasms lies upon Randy Watson’s shoulders. The skilled HB put up over 800 yards last season despite the ineptitude of the offensive unit. So far in the pre-season, Watson has looked the part, racking up over 200 yards in each outing. If Sturdivant and Babs can continue to open up more holes, Watson could help take the pressure off Moxon and help the team find some more Ws.
Defensively the Scorgasms return the same starting lineup from Season 3. Despite the 5-11 record, the defense was rather stout last season and should be able to improve in Season 4. The strength of the defense lies in the nifty LB corps. With the added defensive AI, the unit should be able to compensate for the lack of weapons on the offensive side of the ball and help control the tempo. Or at least, that’s the plan.
The Aggies
Reykjavik nabbed a 5th seed with a 12-4 record in Season 3, but after a first round defeat to the Billy Goats, they are not content with just making the playoffs this season.
Offensively, the Aggies are led by their dual HBs Andre Rudzinski and Super the Squirrel. Together the star HBs amassed over 2,500 yards rushing and 32 TDs despite a below average passing attack. The front office of the Aggies made some moves this off- season to supplement the offensive attack, bringing in Van Horne to man the LT position and a new stud WR, Ronnie McKraken. The Aggies hope that McKraken will improve on his 1,170 yard 7 TD season last year in South America AAA#2. Truth is, if McKraken can just match those numbers, it will do wonders for the Aggies’ offense. The more weapons QB Josh McNamara has at his disposal, the more room Rudzinski and Squirrel will have to run.
Three new starters on the defensive side of the ball represent the key to the Aggies’ season. DT Fat Bahstard joins DE Boozer Williams on what was already a stout defensive line. The two new linemen will be called upon to eat up blockers, allowing the Aggies’ LBs to roam free and make tackles. The third, and most prized free agent addition, is CB Beavis Cox who logged 94 tackles and 12 INTs in Canadian AAA#2 last season. The addition of Cox is welcome news to stud CB Lemar Houston who racked up 10 INTs last year. With Beavis in the lineup, teams will not be able to avoid Houston and thus he should get even more balls thrown his way this season and have more chances to make plays.
The additions on defense add plenty of bite to an already impressive group. The added depth and talent should serve the Aggies well in Season 4 as they look to not only make the playoffs, but challenge for a trophy.
Prediction:
The Scorgasms have scored points in bunches in the pre-season, displaying a newfound appreciation for the running game. However, the pre-season is just that – pre-season. When the real bullets start to fly, things change. The Aggies are far more balanced and have the ability to take away the Scorgasm rushing attack. If Watson is shut down, how reliable is Moxon? My guess, not so reliable. Still, the Scorgasms will make a game of it but ultimately the Aggies will win a closer than expected game, 24-13.
OSLO BERSERKERS (0-0) at BARI BARRACUDAS (0-0)
The Berserkers
Oslo turned in a 9-7 season last year, good enough for the 8th seed. However, due to a lack of depth and the reliance of CPU players at several key spots, the Berserkers will have serious trouble exceeding or even matching their record from Season 3.
Offensively, the Berserkers signed HB Edgerrin Jones-Drew to be their new running back. The rookie put up 807 yards and 6 TDs in South America AAA#1 last season and will be counted on to exceed those numbers in WEPL. It’s a tall order to fill, but a necessary one as the Berserkers will need a sound running game to take pressure off of QB Chad Bennett who tossed an alarming number of INTs last year (33). Though, with the lack of weapons at WR, it’s hard to fault Bennett. The front office has done a poor job of finding the necessary bodies and talent to fill out the roster – a mistake that will not only cost the offense, but the team as a whole.
The lack of offensive weaponry is matched only by the lack of bite in the Berserker defense. With zero human Defensive Ends on the roster and only two human CBs, the Berserkers are in for a long season. The defense boasts only two stars, LOLB Devin Polizzotti and CB Darnell Hood. In order for the Berserkers to have any hope of shutting opponents down this season, they are going to have to rely on extraordinary performances from these two players as well as Vince Lombardi level coaching from their Defensive Coordinator. Based on their performance in the pre-season so far, that’s asking for a lot.
It’s going to be a long season in Oslo.
The Barracudas
Bari struggled through a painful 4-12 Season 3, one rich with internal strife and sabotage. Despite the hard times, the front office has launched a mighty effort to rebuild the Barracudas and it should pay dividends this season.
Offensively, the changes started at the top. A new QB, Shane Falco Jr., will lead the Barracudas onto the field while new HB Clinton Portis will split time with hold over Mack Jones. C Ken Norton Jr. will be the new pivot man and will add much needed pop to the offensive line that includes new G Bryan Brickwall. The final piece of the offensive makeover is the addition of explosive WR Michael Westbrook who racked up 1,134 yards and 9 TDs last season in Southeast Asia Pro. The key to the offensive success will rest on Falco’s transition. In USA BBB last season he threw 23 INTs and only 10 TDs – numbers that will have to improve dramatically in order to be competitive in WEPL. But with plenty of targets to throw to and two good HBs, Falco will have no excuses not to improve on those numbers.
Much of the defensive rebuilding began mid-season last year, but the front office completed the transformation with three key signings. DT Hang Tulo, MLB Daniel Ruettiger and CB Deion Sanders all join the Barracudas from Southeast Asia Pro and will be counted on to bolster the fortunes of the entire unit. Ruettiger is coming off a solid 71-tackle season wherein he racked up 2 sacks and 2 INTs. But the star of the crop is Sanders who had 104 tackles, 8 INTs and 30 PDs. If the three amigos from SEAP can match their efforts from a year ago, the Barracudas will pack a much more powerful bite in Season 4.
Prediction:
Last season the Berserkers rolled to a 48-7 victory over the depleted Barracudas. This time, the Barracudas are loaded and the Berserkers are the ones who are depleted. The Barracudas are far more talented on paper, however they have a serious chemistry problem due to the wholesale changes made over the past several weeks. Still, the talent on the field should be enough to get by this week. Barracudas start the season off right with a 19-0 win.
VALENCIA BILLY GOATS (0-0) at DFOOLS ALLSTARS (0-0)
The Billy Goats
Valencia capped off a 12-4 regular season by advancing to the Conference Championship game, upsetting the number 1 seeded HEAT along the way. Despite the deep playoff run, the Billy Goats still have a bad taste in their mouths after Korb pounded them 34-7 in the Championship game.
Not satisfied with sitting still, the Billy Goats made it a priority to upgrade the passing attack by adding star WR Double Notted. Notted is coming off of a fabulous season in which he put up 2,435 yards and 23 TDs. The speedster joins an already potent WR corps led by Hroth Gar and Gren Del. WR Tinkle Pants is yet another new addition to the WR group and should provide plenty of depth. The final piece of the offensive puzzle is newly acquired TE Kaiser Soze who, with Dingus Jabronie, should give QB Beo Wulf plenty of help in the middle zones. The new free agents will not only make Wulf’s life easier, but they should help HB Tazmanian Devil improve his own numbers. The HB hit pay dirt 17 times last season but only managed 962 yards rushing. With an improved passing attack, expect those numbers to escalate.
Defensively, their great LB corps and the dynamic playmaking of CB Ghost Buster lead The Billy Goats. The secondary’s depth is a strong suit that will give plenty of offensive coordinators nightmares this season. The only weak link on the unit is their lack of depth on the DL. Still, the game plan for the Billy Goats will clearly be to put up enough points on offense that their opponents won’t be able to wear down the men in the trenches with a sustained rushing attack. The Billy Goats have all the pieces in place for another deep playoff run.
The Allstars
Season 3 was not kind to DFools as they barely avoided relegation with a 4-12 record. The front office has made little changes to the roster, instead relying on developing their own players to turn around the franchise’s fortunes.
Improvement needs to begin under center with QB Shane Tessem. Last season the QB was accurate in compiling close to 3,000 yards but was only able to find the end zone 9 times. Improving on those numbers will be the key to a successful season. Unfortunately, that goal will be difficult to accomplish with only three quality receivers on the roster. The lack of targets will put even more pressure on HBs Shaun Curry and Emilio Cabral. Both HBs played well last season but need to improve their production even more to give the Allstars a fighting chance.
Defensively, the best player on the roster is SS Oliver Tullock. Tullock had a brilliant season last year on a doomed defense. He racked up 5 INTs while amassing 108 tackles. Sadly, when your SS leads the team in tackles, you know you’ve had a rough year. With an alarming amount of sub-par players on the defensive side of the ball, the Allstars are going to have problems stopping teams and avoiding relegation. It’s going to be a long, long season for the Allstars.
Prediction:
This is the tale of two cities. The Billy Goats are a legitimate title contender while the Allstars are just pretenders. Expect the Billy Goats to make a statement in this one as they roll to a 35-0 win.
ROHRHEIM STAMPEDE (0-0) at STOCKHOLM MEATBALLS (0-0)
The Stampede
Rohrheim’s 13-3 season came crashing down in the first round of the playoffs against the eventual Conference champion Destroyers. The 19-3 defeat still gives the Stampede nightmares and they are anxious to get back on the field and get the monkey off their backs.
Last season the Stampede was efficient but not explosive offensively. During the off-season, the front office made two key moves to address that deficiency. WR Sebastian Jackson was brought in to add a kick to the Stampede’s passing attack. Jackson will be expected to draw coverage away from fellow WRs Shawn Wellington and Floyd Smirts, allowing QB Gunn Slinger the opportunity to improve on his numbers from Season 3. The second addition was HB Hugh Janus who rushed for over 1,000 yards and had 9 TDs last season. Janus will join HB Ironhead Hayes in the backfield and hopefully give the Stampede more diversity in their offensive attack.
There weren’t many teams better defensively than the Stampede last season, and this year should be more of the same. Anchored by two nifty DEs John Abraham and Dan DanVoi, the defensive front seven is lethal to opposing rushing attacks. The secondary is equally as deep and disruptive, able to put 6 quality CBs on the field at any given time, allowing the defensive coordinator to take more risks with the blitz packages. The depth and talent on the defensive side of the ball will make the Stampede a tough team to beat for anyone in WEPL.
The Meatballs
Stockholm makes their debut in WEPL after closing out a 15-1 season with the AAA#1 Championship trophy.
Offensively the Meatballs are anchored by their powerful offensive line and triple headed rushing attack. C Snot Dangler takes pride in not only dominating opposing NTs, but in his ability to eat his own body weight in wings before every game. The development of QB Tyrone Slothrop in Season 3 allowed the Meatballs to expand offensively and keep opponents off guard. If they are going to have success this season, they will need Slothrop to continue his development and get similar performances from TE Brick Esshaus and WR Willie Banks.
The Meatballs bread and butter however is found in the stout play of their defense. Last season they terrorized AAA#1 with a fierce pass rush and spectacular secondary. DT Jock Strap and DE Gut Maximus will look to improve upon their Pro Bowl numbers from last season while MLB Jack Diesel sets the tone in the middle. With depth at nearly every position, the Meatballs can get rested players on the field at all times, allowing them to take advantage of their opponents’ mistakes. They’ll need that trend to continue if they hope to make the playoffs in WEPL.
Prediction:
Both teams match up well on paper. With both teams boasting powerful defenses, it should be a good, old-fashioned brawl in The Meatball Pan this week. Both teams have the element of surprise on their side as neither is familiar with the other, but the Meatballs have a lot more to prove to the Conference than the Stampede. Expect a low scoring affair that will boil down to a timely turnover. In the end, I have to give the edge to the veterans. The Stampede win a close one, 13-9.
SANDFORD POLICEMAN (0-0) at OXFORD EAGLES (0-0)
The Policeman
After a 3-13 season, the Policeman have been gutted and new team owner Rodin will bring over his USA BBB#3 Experience to WEPL. With a massive rebuilding process ahead, there’s not much to be optimistic about or to write, as relegation seems to be the most likely outcome this season. Still, we wish Rodin and the Policeman (or whatever they soon will be named) good luck. Hopefully it won’t be too painful of a process.
The Eagles
Oxford finished last season 8-8 and looking in from the outside on the playoff picture.
Offensively, the front office of the Eagles bolstered the trenches by adding new LT Randy Anchor. The powerful tackle should provide plenty of protection for QB Max Wagner as he looks to improve on his 17 TD season. HB Big Fakecanz was also signed this past off-season to bolster the rushing attack. Together with Willy Wanker and Donald Williams, the Eagles will now have three HBs capable of carrying the load. WR Nick Speedyfast was a late addition to the WR corps, providing the Eagles with a solid 4th option. It will be interesting to see what sort of offensive identity the Eagles forge this season, but the success or failure of the unit rests on Wagner’s shoulders. They will only go as far as he can carry them.
On the defensive side of the ball, LB Rocky Hornsucker will continue to set the tone. The LB was dominant last season, amassing 125 tackles and 3 INTs. With the help of Fractured Life and Fredo Corleone, Hornsucker will lead one of Zeta’s most talented LB corps into battle every week. The rest of the defense is solid as well as the Eagles boast two good defensive ends and a playmaker in the secondary in the form of CB Cock Blocker. SS Freak McNasty will be counted on to build upon the great numbers he put up last season and help take the Eagle’s defense to the next level.
While the defense looks solid, the Eagles aren’t sure what they have on offense just yet. If the new pieces fit together as nicely as they should, they could improve upon their record from last season.
Prediction:
Against a rebuilding team, the outcome isn’t in doubt. The Eagles will win and it will be ugly. The real season begins in Week 2 when Oxford travels to Troll Cave.
MA TROLLS (0-0) at RIVALS MAINBOARD PIMPS (0-0)
The Trolls
A 13-3 record was good enough to lock up the 2nd seed last season for the Trolls. But after a first round victory over Rotterdam, the Trolls’ season came to an end at the hand of the Destroyers.
QB JJ Flicker had a monster year, passing for 4,538 yards and 27 TDs while leading one of the most explosive offenses in Zeta. Rather than rest on their laurels, the front office of the Trolls went out to improve upon their already top-notch passing attack signing star WR Jeremy Mann who put up over 1,200 yards and hauled in 10 TDs in Oceania Pro last season. The addition of Mann should make the passing attack even more potent. While Mann will step into the starting role, the Trolls added another WR to their stable when they signed Smoky Miracle. Miracle will provide depth to an already deep position. With all these new toys at his disposal, Flicker has to feel like a kid left alone in Santa’s workshop. But he’s not alone in his joy. HB Victor Stagnetty has to be drooling at the prospects of facing less 8 man fronts this season as the improved passing attack should allow him to exceed the 14 TDs he racked up last season.
Defensively, it starts up front for the Trolls with their star DEs Drako BA and Capn Crunch who combined for 35 sacks last season. New additions to the LB and CB corps should provide depth and playmaking ability. Both LB Solnos Vintas and CB Leman Russ join the team from Oceania Pro and should provide even more depth for a deep defensive unit. Boasting great depth and balance, the Troll defense should be able to utilize the new Defensive AI to strengthen what was already one of the Conference’s top defensive units. If the offensive additions live up to the hype, expect the Trolls to take a massive step forward this season, as their defense is already championship caliber.
The Pimps
Brats. Cocky. Troublemakers. Defiant. Unruly. Foul-mouthed. All these are labels that have been (unjustly) thrust upon the Pimps by many in WEPL forums. However, there’s one adjective that is often overlooked: Champions. The Pimps come into WEPL carrying the AAA#2 Championship trophy on their backs and an attitude to match. Despite what those quick to judge posters of WEPL may think, the Pimps don’t just talk the talk, they walk the walk.
The Pimps literally walked through opponents last year as their dual headed rushing attacked combined for 3,275 yards and 34 TDs. HBs Graig Cooper and Lee Suggs will look to continue their dominance in the pros – however it won’t be up to them. Rather, it will be up to the Pimps’ gargantuan offensive line. With great depth throughout the line, the Pimps record rests in the ability of the big men up front to be as dominant as they were in AAA. Due to the astounding lack of depth on the D-Lines that most WEPL teams are sporting this season, the Pimps should be able to pimp-slap most opposing defenses this year.
Just as they do on offense, the men on the line dominate the Pimps’ defense. Their three Defensive Ends combined for 33 sacks last season while the deep DT rotation kept blockers from reaching the second level, allowing the Pimp LBs to make clean tackles. With the new tweaks to the AI, the Pimps’ should be able to take advantage of the new system and continue their dominance in the trenches. This will position them nicely for a deep playoff run.
Prediction:
This is a match up of two of the deeper teams in Zeta and should provide plenty of fireworks – and not all of them from T-Noles’ mouth. The Pimps secondary will be tested as QB Flicker looks to get his new weapons involved early. However, this game will be won in the trenches. Unfortunately for the Trolls, that’s where the Pimps are the strongest. Expect a close game but ultimately a Pimps’ victory, 19-17.
***GAME OF THE WEEK***
KORB DESTROYERS (0-0) at FRANKFURT HEAT (0-0)
The Destroyers
After winning the Conference title as the 6th seed last year, Korb’s stock is at an all time high. Just as they did in AAA#2 two seasons ago, the Destroyers laid back in regular season only to play their best when the games counted the most.
Despite lacking any superstar playmakers, the Korb offense scored points in bunches towards the end of last season – a trend that carried them through a tough playoff draw. Anchored by a terrific offensive line, the Destroyers found ways to score, keeping defenses off balance with their ability to pass and run. This off-season, the offense added a new HB to the mix, Liquid Motion. The speed back had trouble holding onto the football in Oceania AAA#1 last season, something the Destroyers hope he has cured. Motion will spell starting back Hot Runner who will be looking to improve upon his 868 yard 11 TD season.
Stout defensive play has been the Destroyer hallmark for the past two seasons and one that should continue in Season 4. Led by the dynamic playmaking of CBs Blanket Coverage and Nick Windgassen (26 INTs combined last season), Korb boasts a deep defensive unit with sideline-to-sideline speed. The new defensive tactics should play into all of Korb’s strengths, making them an even more imposing defensive foe this season.
The HEAT
A 15-1 debut performance in WEPL wasn’t enough to satisfy the championship hungry HEAT. After a heartbreaking second round playoff loss, the HEAT are out to finish the job in Season 4.
Like the other successful AAA teams, the HEAT learned to rely upon great depth along the offensive line to create a successful offense. While the solid quarterbacking of Jimmy Jimmy Clausen gets most of the press, it’s the blocking of the O-Line that really keeps the chains moving in Frankfurt. Last season the HEAT relied upon ball control and consistency to pile up the wins. The tweaks to the offensive AI should allow the HEAT to continue their style of play with great results.
DE Ed Stinson dominated opposing offensive lines last year as he compiled 25 sacks all by his lonesome. Meanwhile, big plays were turned in by CB Dee Morely who led the team with 12 INTs and 33 PDs. Behind the two superstars, the rest of the HEAT defense is solid and deep. A strong secondary and relentless pass rush should provide the D with plenty of opportunities to cause turnovers and game changing plays. A deep CB corps will allow the defense to take chances with blitzes and newly designed plays without having to worry about getting burned deep. This defensive freedom should help the HEAT mount another run at the trophy.
Prediction:
Most prognosticators are ready to hand Korb yet another Zeta trophy before the season even begins, and they may not be wrong. The HEAT have managed to slip down people’s charts and off some people’s radars – this would be a mistake in my book. The HEAT are still a dangerous team with great coaching and management. To me, these are the two best teams in Zeta right now and the winner of this game will gain a big leg up on clinching the number 1 seed.
With both teams relying on their defense to set the tone, expect a low scoring affair. Both teams are still tinkering with the new AI and playbooks meaning that this game could boil down to one timely turnover or mistake. Call me crazy, but I like the HEAT in this one. Korb is still a team to be reckoned with, but I see the HEAT pulling out a defensive win, 16-6.
Last edited Aug 2, 2008 00:24:35
Great work.
