Word from the Mouth: Someone Call the Po Po 'cause We Just Hung Up a 5-0! edition

Word from the Mouth: Someone Call the Po Po 'cause We Just Hung Up a 5-0! edition

Kevin Kousaie

Folks, we made it to the seasons end. Last fall we got cut after four weeks so we had no champ. The season is over and now the real season is beginning, the playoffs (ed’s note: spoilers!).

I want to say thanks to everyone for making the season what it was. This season we saw a bunch of new teams and a few teams switching up the roster. I’m not sure about everyone else, but I am so glad we moved from Le Ber to Rosemont which actually has grass.

This week it looks like there might be rain over the weekend which means games are going to be sloppy and the earlier you pay the better the field will be. At this point of the year, we can’t really ask for better weather and we can all pray for another 2 weeks of good weather to finish off the season.  I personally hate playing in the rain, but will deal with it. I have a few tricks up my sleeve that will help me and my team.

This week we will only have round 1 of the playoffs which means its going to be an early day wrapping up and a little later start. First game will be played at 9:30 and the last game will be over by 3:30. I can’t wait to not get up and leave the house by 6 am. I know this week we will have only 10 games being played, but I can see at least one or two upsets happening.

I missed watching football all weekend, but in both the NCAA and NFL there were a few games that shocked everyone. I also have to wonder what the NCAA is doing with the first week of playoff rankings. How is Cincinnati not in the top 4? (ed’s note: wait, they are.) I agree with Georgia and Alabama, but having Michigan State and Oregon really, both those teams are crap. The PAC 12 is the worst conference out there and when you think Michigan State you think basketball or at least I do. When their playoffs are set, I can see it being Georgia, Alabama, Oklahoma and Cincinnati. This will only happen if Alabama beats Georgia in the SEC championship.

That’s it for now you all want to know which games I picked to cover and what I heard from all the other games this weekend, so here we go.

 

Weekly Recap

 

Division 1

 

Centurions vs Holy Trollers

 

Game 1 (26-38)

With playoffs on the line, Centurions had a few chances to get in. They need to win one of their two games and Gros Coqs lose or to win both of their games. In the first game of the day, both teams started out by scoring on their first three drives. Some of those scoring drives were because of big plays, but both teams seemed to be ok with working the ball and taking a shot when they had the chance and the player being open. With a minute left in the half the first change of possession happened and it was a punt from the Trollers, this was now the opportunity for Centurions to take the lead and with them starting the second half with the ball, put some separation between the teams. Well, it only took two plays for centurions to give the ball right back on a pick made by Max S. Max was able to punch it in before the half, but failed on the convert. The second half began, and Centurions went in to score and get their convert to hold a 1-point lead 26-25. Max then proceeds to eat up 7 plus minutes on the clock as he led the Trollers back down to score and take the lead. After Trollers scored Centurions tried to rush and get going, but threw their second pick on the day and with Max having a short field to work with he extended the lead and that was it after that Centurions were done.

 

Game 2 (12-24)

After just playing a game against each other there was going to be no feeling out the other team, it was straight to business. It took Centurions three drives before they were able to reach the end zone and once they did, they narrowed the score down to 12-6. Trollers scored not by the big plays, but by chunk plays all the way down. With the Trollers starting the second half with the ball, Max did something he normally doesn’t do and that was chew the clock. Trollers took almost 9 minutes off the clock while scoring again. At this point it felt like everyone knew the game was over and Centurions were going to be watching the playoffs from home this season. Centurions tried to make it a game by scoring quickly, but then the defense let them down by not being able to get a stop. With the score 24-12 Trollers and just under 7 minutes left no one was able to do much from this point on. Centurions needed to score twice, and Trollers just sat back and didn’t allow anything big and that ended up being the game. Trollers finish with the second seed and knew they would be facing Henchmen in round 1.

 

Division 2

 

Outlaws vs Tannantes (38-48)

 

In a must win game for Outlaws, they came out and screwed the pooch yet again. All season the Outlaws defense has given up play after play and nothing changed this week. The first half was all offense and no defense what so ever. What has been the big problem for Outlaws this season popped back up again in this game. Outlaws scored with 23 seconds on the clock and it looked like the half was going to end 20-21 Tannantes. Vincent had another idea and took 4 plays to go 45 yards and then convert on the convert all that and they still left time on the clock for Outlaws to get a shot, but that fell short. Half score was 28-20 Tannantes. Outlaws started second half and scored right away missed convert and then got a quick 4 and out, but couldn’t capitalize on it and were still down 2 points. It started to go back and forth until Simon picked the ball off and retuned it for a score. At that point the Outlaws pretty much knew it was over and any shot at repeating as D2 champs were gone. Outlaws not in the playoffs, who would have though that going into the season?

 

OG Panthers vs Vultures (35-18)

 

Before this game happened, everyone knew it was just for fun and meant nothing to either team. Also, before the game Terry somehow convinced Ben not to run in this game and it wasn’t fair. Terry just eliminated half the offense from Vultures in one little conversation. Once the game began and Ben wasn’t running his team was telling him he needs to, but he said that he wouldn’t and he didn’t run all game. What I didn’t think was cool about this game was that Charles was able to run and he did once for 1 yard. I told Terry that this game needs to become a forfeit since it wasn’t fair that Charles was running all over the place. About midway through the first half, if you saw the speed Terry was firing off the line from his rushing position you would have had to slow the film down just to see him, Oh wait, I meant speed it up. Slowest rush ever. The highlight of this game was when Terry went up the seam and was open and according to him the ball was way too high and uncatchable. Terry looked like he had never caught a ball before as it looked as if he was hugging air. I might not always agree with Jafar, but we both couldn’t stop laughing at him after that. We all know that if Ben played QB all season for Vultures they would have been in playoffs easily.

 

Division 3

 

Blackout vs Thunder Buddies (0-25) Forfeit

 

Ok, so right off the bat, Blackout didn’t show up or at least most of the team didn’t come. Ryan was the only one to show up. I asked Terry what he wanted to do, and he said he wanted to play to get some reps. That was fine by me, but now I had to find 5 players to play with Ryan. It wasn’t hard and I had 4 players from KOLB in D2 and Manu from D4 to play. Once it was arranged, Jafar decided he wasn’t going to play. Luckily for Terry, Vultures showed up early and Ben and his center decided to play with them. They were only going to play half, so with under a minute left Terry asked to me to allow him to finish his drive so I stopped the clock every play and they scored got the 2point convert, but still lost by 2 points. In this game Terry looked good on a few deep throws that none were caught. I know Nick dropped one and so did Dave, if I remember correctly, and they both were surprised the ball got there with such a good spiral on the ball and not hanging up in the air. Both probably should have caught the ball or at least Nick should have.

 

Mustard Tigers vs Panaches (25-26) OT

 

Both these team were in the playoffs before it began, and it was just a matter of where they would finish. I’m not sure how, but Mustard Tigers jumped out to a 12-0 lead and looked like they were just going to cruise for the win. Felix and Panaches had other plans. They were able to fight back and take the lead 13-12 going into half. Second half began and Panaches started with the ball went down and scored fast and it stayed that way for a while. Mustard Tigers scored with under 7 minutes left, but failed on the convert. Panaches scored once they got the ball and here is where it gets questionable. Why go for 1 when you’re up 7 instead of going for 2 to make it a 2-score game? (ed’s note: to make it a one score game with a 2-point conversion requirement to tie. It all depends on how confident you are in your 1 and 2-point convert plays) It’s not like Panaches are inexperienced, but you need to know these things. Panaches got it to make take an 8-point lead. Brian had 1:46 on the clock and needed to score and get the 2 point convert just to force OT. Brian was able to get it done and left just seconds on the clock for Panaches. They went to OT and Felix led Panaches to score with their first possession and Mustard Tigers who used all their luck on scoring to tie the game just couldn’t get it done and lost the game.

 

Division 4

 

Phoenix vs Drama Club (50-25)

 

This game meant more to Drama Club then it did for Phoenix. Drama Club need to win and get help to make playoffs, where Phoenix were in and just battling for placement. Phoenix jumped out to a 12-0 lead before Drama Club woke up. Nico led them on a drive that was 2 plays and got help from a blown coverage. Then Vezina picked the ball off and ran it back to tie the game. Nico got the convert. I was asked by Manu if he could take a shot at QB and he marched the field, but we couldn’t score. Drama Club did nothing with their last possession before half. Second half began and that’s when it fell apart for Drama Club. Nico threw 3 or 4 picks back-to-back to start the second half and that’s what cost them any shot at the win. Simon was talking a lot of crap about me getting replaced as a QB, but that wasn’t the case as I allowed the other players to take a shot at it and they all ended up throwing a TD pass as well. Second half Phoenix went out had some fun and just played relaxed. At the end of the day with the win and fewer points given up Phoenix was able to finish second in the division.

 

Idaho Udapimps vs Manitoboys (30-32)

 

This was the most intriguing game of the weekend from my standpoint. I needed Manitoboys to win, but it didn’t look like it was going to get done. Idaho jumped up 14 points and looked like they were going to run away with it. Adam brought his team back and made it 14 all very quickly and right after tying it up Brady was able to hit Kyle on a deep throw down the sideline and as he hauls it in the trailing defender missed the flag and Kyle walked in for a 45-yard score. This is where it should have been over. Adam was sacked by James for the safety. Now the score is 23-20 with 1:28 left, but Brady threw a pick to Marco on his second pass. This gave Adam a short field and a chance to make it a closer game. Manitoboys scored and made it 23-20 Idaho at half. The second half started, and the game was all Manitoboys from here on out. Adam took his team to score on the opening possession of the half and never looked back after that. This was the first time I saw Simon play for Manitoboys and he is an absolute beast.

 

There you have it the final week of the season recap and the last time a few teams will get any coverage until next season.

 

Top Performances of the Week

Last chance for some players to make my list. This past week we had great weather for the first week of November. A bunch of you balled out this week and won you game as well, but for teams who needed to win if you put the team on your back and made it happen, you’re getting bonus points towards making my list and if you lost you most likely you won’t see your name up here. Here are this week’s winners.

 

Division 1

 

Offense

I had a few players to choose from, but I came to the conclusion that even with Max Rosenfeld playing 2 games that he need to be given this weeks pick. Max went 57 of 77 for 444 yards, 10 TDs, threw 1 pick and had 2 1point convert. Max also ran twice for 5 yards (ed’s note: I dream of rushing numbers like that).

 

Defense

I would normally be giving this player love for his offense, but this week Gros Coqs had Dom Lefort play rusher and he finished the day with 3 tackles that just happened to be all sacks. Someone mentioned to me that if Dom continued to rush all game that Gros Coqs were going to win, and they did.

 

Division 2

 

Two-Way Player

People hate blowout and so do I, but when you bust your ass wearing a pink shirt you get some love. Kerano Johnson made everyone on the field this week look like they were children. KJ only made 7 catches for 96 yards and a total of 5 TDs. Well on defense this man made 5 tackles to go along with his 4 interceptions and KJ also took one of his picks back for a TD. When you play like that and looked that good doing it, you’re going to get my nod.

 

Division 3

 

Offense

It was a hard choice to make this week but it came down to putting the team on your back and stepping up when he needed to, that is why this week’s winner is Jeremy Trudel. Jeremy had 5 catches for 89 yard, 2 TDs and 2 1point converts. He was also the person who scored the game winning convert in OT.

 

Defense

This week was really hard to pick a winner since so many of you guys play in higher divisions. This is the first time I see this player balling out, but I’m sure it won’t be the last time someone says Pengyi Liaos name. Pengyi made 2 tackles and both of them were sacks.

 

Division 4

 

Offense

I picked this player after seeing him play for the first time this week and I have been told that he is a beast by a few of his teammates. Simon Dumas played twice this week and made a big impact in both games. Simon made 14 catches for 162 yards, 4 TDs and 1 1point convert. Simon is tall, fast and you can’t miss him on the field.

 

Defense

The player I went with here is a player that was added to my teams roster a few weeks ago to replace a player that won’t be able to make it for playoffs. If I had known that Manu Allard-Roy was such a baller I would have added him weeks ago. This week Manu made 1 tackle and had 2 picks he was also able to take one of them back for 6 points.

 

There you have it my picks for this week. I’m sure next week everyone will be balling out which will make me make these picks even harder and lets all remember next week if you lose your season is over.

Predictions and Power Rankings Week 8

Predictions and Power Rankings Week 8

Kevin Kousaie

Predictions

 

Going into the last week of the season it is a tight race for the top spot between Terry and myself. For the first time in a few weeks, I wasn’t the winner. This past week Jon stole the show. It seems too late for him to take the title, but he should be able to beat Will and not finish last. Here are the standings going into the last week of the season, followed by my picks in bold like always.

 

 

Division 1

 

Centurions vs Holy Trollers

They have the stronger roster and the better QB.

 

Centurions vs Holy Trollers

They have the stronger roster and the better QB.

 

Henchmen vs Gros Coqs

Gros Coqs haven’t had a complete team the last few weeks so I expect the same this week, plus Henchmen are a good team with a very strong roster.

 

Outlaws vs Honor Game

After the beating Outlaws gave to them last week expect to see the same this time as well.

 

Division 2

 

Redzone vs D#Nasty

Mike will have this team ready to go as they gear up for what could be a long playoff run.

 

D#Nasty vs KOLB

KOLB have too many weapons that D#Nasty won’t be able to keep up with.

 

Outlaws vs Tannantes NA

I don’t pick my teams games.

 

Vultures vs Joey’s Haters

I just can’t see the Haters being able to keep up with all the athletic players on Vultures, plus who is going to stop Ben from running wild on them?

 

Iron Wolves vs RedZone

In the battle for first place and an easier shot at reaching the finals I think Jon finds a way to pull this off.

 

OG Panthers vs Vultures

This was the hardest pick for me to make in the division, but I went with the team that I feel has the better QB and that is Ben.

 

Division 3

 

Mustard Tigers vs Panaches

I’m not sure why I am taking Mustard Tigers. I just have a feeling that they get it done, plus I think their offense is a tad better and doesn’t need big plays as much. (ed’s note: then you do know why you’re taking them…)

 

Average Joes vs Iron Wolves

If Jason is smart with the ball and avoids Marvin as much as possible then they should win.

 

Blackout vs Thunder Buddies

They are a bit too strong for Thunder Buddies to deal with and I can’t see how they should lose this game.

 

Panaches vs RawSauce

RawSauce has been slipping these last few weeks and this week they get back on track if their QB shows up.

 

Jagerbomb vs Flamboyant Flamingos

Jagerbomb is a very good team and this week they will beat up the Flamingos and it shouldn’t even be close.

 

Chiefs vs Petits Phoques

I will go with Chiefs because this season Petit Phoques have been a complete mess with players missing and not having a steady QB.

 

Average Joes vs Flamboyant Flamingos

Average Joes continue their perfect season with a win that will keep the train rolling into the playoffs.

 

Division 4

 

Idaho Udapimps vs Manitoboys

I have played both teams and I just feel that Manitoboys are a little bit better as a team.

 

Spin Doctors vs Gold Rush

Spin Doctors with all the new additions have to be able to pull this one off.

 

Manitoboys vs Sneaky Snakes

With the players that Sneaky Snakes have lost over the course of the season it will be too much for them to overcome in this game.

 

Bines vs Spin Doctors

They are the top team for a reason. They will walk all over Spin Doctors this week.

 

Drama Club vs Phoenix NA

I don’t pick my teams games.

 

Gold Rush vs Airborne

They are the better team and have the better QB plus Guillaume finds a way to squeak into the playoffs.

 

Mimosa Crew vs Idaho Udapimps

This is a horrible matchup for Mimosa. Idaho has too many good athletes that Mimosa won’t be able to stop.

 

There you have my picks for the week and I hope it will be enough to get the overall title and the money that the media team bet. If you all want to help me win, just check above and if you are picked to win get it done and if I picked you to lose you can always phone it in or not even show up. Good luck to everyone this week.

 

Power Rankings

 

This week we had a few games that affected the rankings. This will also be the last rankings of the season since no one cares about where they are once playoffs start and anything can happen then. Ill post my rankings with an explanation at the end.

 

Division 1

1) Outlaws

2) Holy Trollers

3) Henchmen

 

Division 2

1) Iron Wolves (ed’s note: wat?!?)

2) RedZone

3) KOLB

 

Division 3

1) Average Joes

2) Blackout

3) Jagerbomb

 

Division 4

1) Bines

2) Idaho Udapimps

3) Phoenix

 

D1- Must stay the same as those are the best teams and in that order.

 

D2- I just flipped 1 and 2 around, but I was very close to putting a team with a losing record up on my list this week.

 

D3- Right now those are the best teams with Mustard Tigers being a very close fourth.

 

D4- After Manitoboys lost this week to Phoenix, I kicked them off the list and moved up Idaho Udapimps to number 2 and inserted Phoenix at number 3. You might want to argue that Phoenix got beat up by Bines in their match up, but if you ignore the first 5 minutes of that game Phoenix would have won. (ed’s note: I always say if you just ignore each individual second where the opposing team scored, we would have won)

 

There you have my final rankings on the season. I know it’s not perfect, but this is how I see it and with the season over there is no way to prove your team needed to be up here on my list.

 

Final Thoughts

 

We have made it to the last week of the season and a few might be able to finish undefeated. Does it really matter if you went undefeated if you don’t win it all? I think not. Playoffs are a different game where anything can happen. It is starting to get colder out, but this week it looks to be nicer out, but you never know, it’s only Tuesday right now. I hope that everyone didn’t go to crazy eating all the Halloween candy they could get their hands on. I know I didn’t. (ed’s note: Good for you. Good for you.)

This week was the trade deadline in the NFL and two teams made big moves. The Rams picked up Von Miller from Denver for next to nothing and then the Chiefs went and got Melvin Ingram from Pittsburg. Both those trades should help both teams who acquired pass rushers. If you could make one trade in your division who would you want and what would you be willing to give up? For me I’m not trading anyone off my team for no one. (ed’s note: yes, generally you should make trades for someone) I like my team and making a trade now would just ruin the chemistry that we have built over the season.

It’s the last week of season and a bunch of teams are fighting for those few spots left, but let’s not forget that we are playing a game and here to have fun. Go out and play hard, have fun, and at the end of the day see if you did enough to play the following week.

 

Word from the Mouth: Dancing in the Dark! edition

Word from the Mouth: Dancing in the Dark! edition

Kevin Kousaie

This week was Halloween and I hope everyone with young children took them out and that they had fun and got lots of candy.

It looks like the MFL has found a new home at Rosemont College for the remainder of the season. This week we played two games there and 2 games across the street at Sainte-Bernadette. The only issue we had with the two locations was players having games at one field and then having to walk over to the other field, it was the same with the refs.

This week we will have all four at the college.

This was also the first time that we played a game in the dark or at least with very poor lighting (ed’s note: it was actually a really fun game!). That was the only time it will happen as this week we have a full schedule of games starting at 8am and last game at 330pm. We should be done by 5pm and home by 630 at the latest or at least I will be. (ed’s note: this is very useful information for people who are stalking Kevin and useless information for anyone else)

Another thing that needs to be brought up is that captains need to do a better job with their rosters and who is eligible to play and who isn’t. Just because the player is on your roster doesn’t mean they can play in any game. We ended up having a few teams that won games, but broke the rules and had their games overturned and now that win is a loss. I know it doesn’t seem like a big deal, but with teams all battling for the playoffs, teams shouldn’t be getting an advantage.

Initially it was supposed to rain all day this past Saturday and it only drizzled for a few moments, which was great for Saturday games. Sunday wasn’t the same. I had a game in the morning then headed over to Brossard for the finals. Let me tell you being the third ref and having to stand in the field of play wasn’t pretty, I stood in two to three inches of water all game long (ed’s note: it was worse on the sidelines, ya big baby). The best thing about being there on Sunday was seeing Nico doing his best ballerina impersonation, it was great making the rusher slide right by him and then completing the pass.

 

Weekly Recap

 

Division 1

 

Holy Trollers vs Gros Coqs (39-15)

 

This was supposed to be a great game on paper with all the history between them. Both teams stated out well exchanging scores on their first possessions and then it slowly fell apart for Gros Coqs, who again were only 3 or 4 roster players. After both teams had the ball Trollers started to pull away and nothing Gros Coqs did seemed to work. We did a quick half and it looked like Gros Coqs talked and figured out how to move the ball and scoring to open up the second half. Trollers were like, ok you scored, and they went down and punched it in again to take a 33-15 lead. At this point the game was all but over for Gros Coqs, they weren’t able to get a stop on defense. On the next possession Dom ended up throwing a pick to Phil who ran it in for a score and then Gros Coqs called the game with 10:30 left. I know Trollers weren’t happy about that, since they wanted to practice more (run up score and get stats). As a player I wouldn’t be too happy about it either, but really the game was already over, and Dom had somewhere to be right after the game so I don’t blame them for ending it. Not cool, but I understand why.

 

Division 2

 

D#Nasty vs Tannantes (32-54)

 

This game was all offense very little defense. Tannantes had a QB subbing this week and he was very good. He made a throw where Phil was covered tight and he placed the ball low and inside and Phil running full sped in stride reaches out and grabs the ball as he goes the rest of the way for the score. I look at defender, he looks at me and I go next time be closer to him and by that, I mean all over him. The defender had no chance at that ball or even trying to defend it. I asked Fred after that throw where he had played before and he told me a bunch of places and the Carabins were one of those places, but he added that he was the backup QB only. That wasn’t his only amazing throw of the day as he hit Simon on a deep route that was between two defenders and Simon only needed to put his hands up as the ball hit him perfectly and looked like a hard catch, but Simon said he made no adjustments the ball was just there. Any other week D#Nasty wins this game. Everyone on the team played lights out on offense, on defense they could have played a little better a few dropped picks, but really it was a good game for D#Nasty even though they lost.

 

Vultures vs Redzone (43-32)

 

I know very little about this game, but from what I heard it was poor converts from Redzone and the pick before half and then the score on last play of half from Vultures was what decided the game. When I was picking up after their game, I asked Ben if they won and he looks at me and goes what kind of question is that. Then said to ask him a real question, of course they won. For the last few weeks Vultures have been giving teams trouble and are now in a position to make a run in the playoffs.

 

Division 3

 

RawSauce vs Mustard Tigers (19-25)

 

I was playing at the same time as this game and I only saw a few things from it. RawSauce were without their QB so Alexander stepped in and did a decent job. I also want to know how Antoine made the catch along the sideline and fully extended out of bounds and was able to keep his feet in. I tried to remind Antoine that rushers aren’t supposed to have hands like that. Last thing about RawSauce, how or why was Yves on the bench for what seemed like half the game? For Mustard Tigers how are you going to replace Jie since he is done for the season to allow his injuries to heal up? I wonder if that is what Mustard Tigers are telling me or did Jie enjoy Ottawa so much he decided to stay for an extended period of time.

 

Iron Wolves vs Flamboyant Flamingos (19-20)

 

Let me start by saying we all hope that Chris heals up fast and that you didn’t get hurt too badly. Also, this was the first time we played a late game with no lights. Jon didn’t throw and he let Iggy take a shot and Iggy did a good job, ball placement was nice, he had good zip on the ball and made good reads. Flamingos were playing for Chris after he got hurt and every time they made a play they would scream this is for Chris. I didn’t see many big plays or memorable plays from the first half and once the second half started it was getting dark and everything was short, and teams had to drive the field to score. After surrendering the lead with 2 minutes left Iron Wolves had the ball with a chance to go down and win the game. Iron wolves got the ball all the way into the red zone with time for two plays the first one was knocked away by Brandon and on the last play Iggy threw it up to Marvin running a corner route. Marvin went up and came down with his toes on the line. I know I might bust Marvin’s balls all the time, but the guy has some great hand eye coordination. How was he even able to see that ball coming in yet alone catch it. If I had just rounded off the back goal line, he would have been the hero, and everyone would have carried I’m off on their shoulders. I know for that to happen we would have needed the fans to be chanting “Marvin, Marvin” so he could feel like Rudy.

 

Division 4

 

Phoenix vs Manitoboys (26-25) OT

 

This ended up being a great game, but it didn’t start that way. At least not for Phoenix. I threw a pick on Phoenix’s first possession right into the hands of Richie rich. Manitoboys were able to score easily with the short field. That was all the offense or at least scoring from Manitoboys in the first half. I was able to lead Phoenix on scoring drives their next two possessions. Manitoboys got very lucky right before half when I beat their rusher, rolled to the left, was about to take off running and saw one of my teammates open and when I threw it, I didn’t put it outside enough and Adam came over and made a pick. Everyone knows if that ball was outside another two feet it was a TD (ed’s note: many passes, if in different locations from where they were, would be TDs. That’s science). At half it was a 13-7 game. With Manitoboys starting the second half with the ball, both teams exchanged scores, but it was two to one for them making it 19 all. Manitoboys had the lead with 3:25 left in the game and now it was time to see if Phoenix could march down and score to tie and get the convert to win. I hit Vince on a deep route where made someone miss and thought he was just going to walk in and score easily, but speedy jogged and was caught a few yards short. At the time I thought it was a good thing so I could waste more time, but worried we wouldn’t score as well. We scored on the next play and missed on the convert. Manitoboys had a few plays, but they were 2 incompletes followed by an interception by Julien with enough time for two plays. I took two shots at the end zone first was incomplete and the second was a pick in the end zone. We go to OT. It was a few times of back and forth before I was able to hit Manu for the game winning score. I’m glad that the few calls that might have been iffy and took 8 points off the board for Phoenix didn’t cost us the game.

 

Phoenix vs Bines (20-39)

 

This is going to be short and right to the point. This game was over 5 minutes into it. I threw 3 of 4 picks right away and the score was 27-0 at that point. After the horrible start the game was pretty even after that. Bines are a really good team, but they are beatable. I also missed a few throws that would have put points on the board and I also know Simon plans on trying to steal that play from me. At half I told my team we just need to go out and win the second half and we did. I would like to play them again and hope for a better start.

 

Spin Doctors vs Airborne (18-19)

This wasn’t the type of game you want to be your first game under center. With Raph gone, Rob was given the reins. He did good in leading his team to an 18-6 half time lead. Second half didn’t go as well. Neither team could do much until Airborne scored with just over 5 minutes left to make it 18-12. With Rob marching Spin Doctors to score and seal the game he was picked off by Jeremy with 2 minutes left and gave Guillaume a chance to win the game. Guillaume was able to find Greg for the score with zero on the clock. Convert would be last play as Guillaume found Isaac for the game winning convert. Spin Doctors had 5 picks off Guillaume, but the one they missed was the one that cost them the game. From what I heard on the TD the ball went through the hands of Ryan who in the game had 3 TDs and 2 picks. Yes, Ryan balled out, but couldn’t make the play when it mattered.

 

There you have my recaps for this week.

 

Top Performances of the Week

 

With the move to the new location and the fields having grass, a lot of people were able to make cuts and dance around players. I had a few hard choices to make this week, but managed to pick out most of the studs this week. I know no matter what I do, unless I picked you then you will be upset, but here we go with who I know balled out and earned their spot on my list.

 

Division 1

 

Offense

I almost made this a two-way player award then I went back and looked over the stats and made up my mind that not Giving Yves Dejardins respect would be foolish. Yves only made 5 catches but had 136 yards, 4 TDs and 1 1point convert.

 

Defense

This person might not be a household name but after you set the singe game interception record in one game everyone will know who Ariel Librati is. Ariel played two games this week and managed to make 13 tackles and had 6 picks, 5 of them were in one game.

 

Division 2

It was hard to pick here with players playing multiple games and teams only winning one of those two games, but I managed to pick players that I felt balled out enough to be recognized here for the division.

 

Offense

This person might not have the big name or the flashy stats, but this week he showed that he shouldn’t be overlooked. David Marcotte played twice this week and all he did was haul in 8 balls for 149 yards, 4 TDs and 4 1point converts.

 

Defense

It was hard to pick a player for this week on defense. No one had jaw dropping stats and a bunch of players had two games and went one and one. I was able to narrow it down to one person and that was Alexandre Vallieres. Alexandre played two games and managed to get 5 tackles which were all sacks.

 

Division 3

 

Offense

This player helped his team win both their games and has given his team a shot at making the playoffs going into the last week of the season. Alex Morin is someone everyone in the lower divisions know and fear even his own team now. This week Alex had 15 catches for 177 yards, 2 TDs and 1 2point convert.

 

Defense

It’s very rare when a player does what Anthony Hotte-Mateo did this week. Anthony racked up 3 tackles, 2 sacks and a pick. When was the last time a rusher made a sack and had a pick in the same game? I couldn’t tell you.

 

Division 4

 

Offense

This player has dealt with injuries all season long, but when its time to make plays and fight for that final playoff spot Curren Dewan shows ups. Curren didn’t put up great number maybe not even good numbers, but he did what it took to get the win. Curren was 11 of 30 for 132 yards, 3 TDs and a 1point convert. He also ran 9 times for a total of 49 yards and 1 TD.

 

Defense

This pick is a player that has been in the league for years and is considered 1 of the better rushers. Greg D’Alesio grabbed 5 flags and had 3 sacks on the day. Greg was able to show up today and help his team try to get that last playoff spot in the division.

 

There you have my picks for the week. With the last week of the season next week, it will be the last chance for some players to see their names up here on my list. You all know what you must do to make my list, win your game, ball out and you might see your name up above next week.

Predictions and Power Rankings Week 7

Predictions and Power Rankings Week 7

Kevin Kousaie

Predictions

 

Here we go again, where I get to tell you who I like this week and tell you why I have your team winning. With only 2 weeks left the race is tight for the lead at least between Terry and myself with Will and Jon battling not to be last. Here are the standings followed by my picks in bold like always.

 

Kevin 20-3 last week (overall 91-32)

Jon 17-6 last week (overall 79-46)

Will 16-6 last week (overall 75-42)

Terry 16-7 last week (overall 82-36)

 

Division 1

 

Henchmen vs Bitter Boys

Henchmen have a far superior roster and would look like fools if they lost this one.

 

Centurions vs Outlaws

Outlaws are the cream of the crop and won’t lose to a middle of the pack team.

 

Honor Game vs Bitter Boys

I’m going with Honor Game winning just like last week, but this time by more than one point.

 

Gros Coqs vs Holy Trollers

I wanted to go Gros Coqs, but I am unsure of who will show up and I know Trollers are going to be there to play.

 

Outlaws vs Honor Game

I can’t pick against the best team in the division.

 

Division 2

 

D#Nasty vs Tannantes

I can’t see who on D#Nasty is going to be able to stop or even slow down Phil.

 

Iron Wolves vs Tannantes

Iron Wolves are rolling and have enough studs to beat a Tannantes team that revolves around Phil.

 

OG Panthers vs Joey’s Haters

I think this will be a good close game but I can’t see the Haters losing 3 games in a row.

 

KOLB vs OG Panthers

KOLB have too many weapons and OG won’t have enough to take them all out.

 

KOLB vs Iron Wolves

I feel that with this being Jon’s third game of the day, his arm will be dead and the ducks will be flying all over the place.

 

Vultures vs Redzone

It will be a long day for RedZone’s defense, but they step up and help win the game.

 

Division 3

 

Mustard Tigers vs Thunder Buddies

Thunder Buddies have too many good players to lose to Mustard Tigers who are mostly average players.

 

Thunder Buddies vs Jagerbomb

There is no way Thunder Buddies have enough to pull this one off, Jagerbomb are a better team from top to bottom.

 

Petits Phoques vs Panaches

I know that Panaches will have their QB at the game, I can’t say the same for Petits Phoques.

 

RawSauce vs Mustard Tigers

Brian will be in trouble all day long with Antoine after him, I can see 4 sacks and 3 picks from the RawSauce defense.

 

Blackout vs Iron Wolves

Blackout have the best trio of players (Omar, Quaysie and Ryan) in the division. Marvin, Meis and Iggy don’t even come close. It won’t be a blow out, but it won’t be interesting to watch. Jon needs to use every second of the clock to have any chance.

 

Flamboyant Flamingos vs Chiefs

I’m going with Flamingos because that’s what came up on the coin I flipped. I don’t really have much confidence in either team, but since we can’t have ties, I had to pick one.

 

Flamboyant Flamingos vs Iron Wolves

A pack of hungry wolves can take out a flock of flamingos any day. Marvin, Meis and Iggy will be too much for the Flamingos to handle.

 

Division 4

 

Manitoboys vs Phoenix NA

I don’t pick my teams games.

 

Drama Club vs Mimosa Crew

Both teams have been playing poorly this season, but Drama Club seems to be able to score and Mimosa can’t.

 

Phoenix vs Bines NA

I don’t pick my teams games.

 

Spin Doctors vs Airborne

In their first game with new QB Rob the team should be able to win the game, but it might not be pretty.

 

There you have my predictions for the week. If you have been following, I have stepped up with my picks the last few weeks and everyone won’t be happy about my picks, but just follow suit and do as I wrote. Thanks, and good luck to everyone, especially the teams I picked to win.

 

Power Rankings

This week we didn’t have too many big games or games that made huge impacts on my top 3, but look and see what I did. I have included a little explanation on the bottom.

 

Division 1

1) Outlaws

2) Holy Trollers

3) Henchmen

 

Division 2

1) Redzone

2) Iron Wolves

3) KOLB

 

Division 3

1) Average Joes

2) Blackout

3) Jagerbomb

 

Division 4

1) Bines

2) Manatoboys

3) Idaho Udapimps

 

D1- With Trollers beating Henchmen I Just flipped their spots.

 

D2- I’m going to leave this division how it is for now. I could have flipped 1 and 2 but I just think Redzone has played the better teams so far.

 

D3- Average Joes are the top team there in no arguing that. The second and third spots are debatable. I put Blackout at 2 because of that roster and I include Jagerbomb at 3 for two reasons, they lost to the top two teams and I have given them a pass for that week 1 lose.

 

D4- I’m going to leave D4 how it is for now, but things can easily change after this week.

 

There was only 1 new team added into my top 3 this week and I might not have it right in your opinions, but this is how I see it.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Only 2 weeks left for the regular season we still have so many big games to play. I want everyone to remember that we have changed locations from Le Ber to Saint Bernadette and Rosemount High. Your team captain should have all the info for you since they were sent emails about this on Wednesday, so if you haven’t been told by them ask them and if they don’t get back to you message me or Jon and we will help you out. 

This week we are starting at 8am and the last game should be 5pm if we have lights. Again, this week it looks like rain, but how much no one knows. Also, at both these fields where we will be playing, they won’t have the yard lines and I don’t want players complaining about missing a yard or two.

I went over us moving fields, covered the rain and pretty much told Marvin to not cry about his missing stats, think I covered what I wanted to.

Even with it being the last few weeks let’s all remember that we are playing a game and her to have fun. Go out have fun and try not to kill anyone. That was to reminder Bitter Boys and Honor Game that we are playing flag football and not tackle. I’m just glad I don’t have to be there for this week’s rematch. See you all out there on Saturday.

 

Word from the Mouth: We Killed the Field! edition

Word from the Mouth: We Killed the Field! edition

Kevin Kousaie

Here we go! Teams have 2 or 3 games left in the season and most playoff spots are still up for grabs. This is great for the league, since it means that most teams are in the right division and that every game still matters at this point. We all know that the field last week was horrible by the end of the day, so we have decided to move the games to Parc Sainte Bernadette and the Rosemount high school soccer field. It is very simple to get to and you really can’t miss it if you are on the right street. When Jon and I went to see it a few weeks ago we were able to put all 4 fields down so if the field isn’t like Le Ber, we will be able to get some proper footing and not slide everywhere.

Saturday night I was able to catch a bit of the Notre Dame vs USC game and at the end of the first half, with seconds on the clock USCs QB runs the ball and gets the first down (which stops the clock until the chains are moved) and with 3 seconds left lines up in shotgun to spike the ball and he does it, but with zeros on the clock. He should have been under center to give them 1 second left to attempt a field goal. I like this rule and I tried to get it passed in the MFL where in the final minute clock stops until bags are set and play is blown in. It was a no go.

The other thing that got me was the TD taken off the board in the Iowa State vs Oklahoma state game for a guy changing his running style (high stepping) a few yards from the endzone. It was one step, and no one was around. Rules are rules in the NCAA. (ed’s note: the rule he’s referring to is taunting being a spot foul, meaning if you taunt on your way into the endzone, the touchdown comes off the board. I like the rule, but it was a terrible call in this game. This is the rule in the MFL, by the way!) When Sunday rolled around I was once again in Brossard where Willie almost pulled a horse shoe out of his ass trying to upset the top team. I got home and was able to see Mahomes playing like banana split and Brady throwing his 600th TD pass. The funny thing about the Brady’s pass was Mike Evans gave the ball to a fan not knowing it was a huge deal. Brady got the ball back after a person from Tampa Bay organization went over and spent a few minutes making a deal. I’m not sure what that person got, but it probably wasn’t enough. For how much sport memorabilia goes for, what would you have asked for or would you have kept the ball? For me it would have cost Brady an arm and a leg plus a date with his wife (ed’s note: literally the joke the announcer made!). Okay, just an arm, forget his leg or the date with Giselle, neither of them would do me any good. Also, at what point does Miami end up pulling off a trade for Watson and what is it going to cost them? Two seasons ago it was “suck for Tua” and now Miami want to move on from him already. There is my weekly rant on what I saw this weekend in sports.

 

Weekly Recap

 

Division 1

 

Outlaws vs Gros Coqs (56-19)

 

Let me start by saying that this really wasn’t a game and that Gros Coqs were missing almost everyone. The game started late since we were waiting for a few players for Gros Coqs to show up, but once they did it got ugly really fast. There were only a few things that stuck out to me in this game and the big one is that Marvin really only cares about himself (ed’s note: dayum!). Marvin thinks he can do it all. They made Marvin sit out a few plays on offense and Steve decided to throw a pass to Terry on a play that was made for Marvin and he started asking how you going to throw Terry the ball on a play made for him? After all his hard work of trying to chase Dom down, Terry allowed Marvin to take a few snaps at rusher and of course he had to complain about it and asked why it had to be against Dom. With the game way out of reach, Steve took his last drive because he is trying to get Smuda the single season TD record. Steve throws a short pass to Marvin who runs it all the way for a score even with his team telling him to go out. Marvin might have been happy, but the rest of the team was a little annoyed. On a final note, Marvin shape up or start running upside down because that might be the only way we see you smiling while on the field. (ed’s note: what did Marvin do to you, Kevin?)

 

Bitter Boys vs Honor Game (41-42)

 

In a matchup we all expected to be physical, we never expected it to be this close. From what I heard and saw there was more than one instance where it looked like a fight was going to break out. One of those times it was Dave running down the sideline and getting hit in the chest or rib area once he was out of bounds. I’m not sure if it was from the player or because he landed on something. This was late in the game and Dave had asked for Lambert to be thrown out of the game on a few plays earlier in the game and nothing was done. Now with all the pushing and shoving out of the way let’s get to what happened while the game was being played. Guillaume scored 5 times for Bitter Boys on 7 catches. I know Guillaume is good, but was anyone even covering him. On the other side of things Dave spread the ball around between two players. Dilan had a low 10 catches for 63 yards and 2 TDs, but Laurent had 16 catches for only 89 yards and 1 TD. I’m not sure if either team knew what to do on defense. How can 3 players on the two teams do all the damage. After that no one did much of anything.

 

Division 2

 

Outlaws vs OG Panthers (6-24)

 

OG came into this game needing a win and had a great game plan. They knew who they were facing and how to go about beating them. The offense for Outlaws was horrible in this game all around. Steve started 0-9 in his passing attempts, and it wasn’t all on him. Outlaws dropped way too many balls or couldn’t keep their feet inbounds. Steve was getting mad, the players were getting annoyed, and nothing good came from it. The real big issue was Outlaws couldn’t get separation on any of the OG defenders when they were in man and it was at least 90% of the time. The final score was 24-6 but it really didn’t feel that way. To me it felt much worse and everyone on that Outlaws team needs to think about how poorly they played and how to fix it. For OG, Charles played a decent game, but was able to exploit what was open and that was the short underneath stuff all day long. Both teams are battling for a playoff spot, but OG now have the tiebreaker over Outlaws since they swept the season games 2-0.

 

Outlaws vs Joey’s Haters (40-27)

 

This was a must win for both teams if they wanted to make the playoffs (Narrator: it was not). Both teams have fallen so far from where they were supposed to be at to start the season. Both teams were supposed to be favorites to win it all and now there is a possibility that neither make the playoffs. There were too many mental mistakes all game by both teams. Outlaws were able to score with 30 seconds left in the half to take a 20-12 lead. Two plays later Justin picked the ball off and it looked like Outlaws were destined to blow this game wide open, but did nothing with the few seconds left on the clock. Outlaws started with the ball second half and marched all the way into the red zone, but then a stupid penalty pushed them back as well as taking points off the board. Haters went down and scored and got their convert to take the lead. Both teams then traded scores. With under 4 minutes left, Outlaws were down and needed to score to take the lead and hopefully seal the game. Steve drove the field chewing up clock before punching it in and leaving under a minute left. Max was able to complete a pass on his first throw, but that was it on his next three throws it was all Outlaws as two were knocked away and the last one was picked off by Justin and taken in for 6. That is how it ended with Outlaws winning by two scores, but it was a really tight game that came down to the final whistle.

 

Division 3

 

Panaches vs Blackout (8-28)

 

This was a hard game to watch. Both teams have solid rosters, but both teams QBs struggled in this one. Felix played great last season and this season he just seems to be struggling. Last season he was able to run all over the place and the field might be funky monkey these last few weeks, but you have to do something. Quaysie has stepped up to fill the QB role for Blackout, but he is a way better receiver and I noticed a few tells with him playing QB. Even when Quaysie tries to run, he can’t seem to turn it up and get into that second gear. There are far too many times that he is getting tackled for a short gain or a loss when he has space in front of him. There were a few good plays made on both sides like the pick 6 by Connor who read the play in front of him, jumped the route and took the ball in for 6. Gabriel had 4 sacks, and none were bigger than on the fourth and one where if he didn’t make that tackle it could have easily gone in for 6. Next week when Omar is back, I want to know how a team plans on stopping Blackout. That will give them two solid receivers and a defense that won’t give up points. This game was never close, and Panaches should be lucky it was even this close.

 

Iron Wolves vs Mustard Tigers (18-33)

 

I knew this wasn’t going to be a close game, but it was closer than I expected it to be. With all the experience Iron Wolves have they should have been able to stop Mustard Tigers, especially since they only had Tom and Dave making plays on offense. Jon did a respectable job on offense, but he had too many guys running bad routes or dropping balls and the one player that was making plays early got hurt and took himself out of the game. Brian was able to pick apart the Iron Wolves defense by attacking the weak links or the open zones. It also helped that Brian was able to hit Tom over the middle with little to no resistance. All he had to do was throw it high and not too deep to avoid Marvin and it was an easy completion. I also saw Tom pick a ball off where it looked like the receiver was open behind him but when he raised his hands the ball was right there for him. The second half went quick, Iron Wolves tried to get chunk plays that weren’t working and Mustard Tigers just wore the clock down every time they had the ball.

 

Division 4

 

Phoenix vs Airborne (22-13)

 

This game was closer than I would have liked it to be. I made 2 bad throws, and both were picked off. Kris was on the sideline watching and when I threw the second one, I knew it right away and he looks at me and says all arm no hips which I already knew. I was going to say in all the years of playing I have never faced Airborne, but since last fall was the first time we were in the same division, it makes sense. Guillaume is a good QB, but needs to find more weapons to help him. I went in expecting to score 40 easily, but they are a better team than their record. Dave made a huge pick off me as it looked like we were going in to score. This week, like last week, Kat stepped up for Phoenix. Last week she filled in to snap for an injured Yann and this week she filled in at rusher. She started the game with no cleats which made it impossible to cut, I then gave her my spare pair and she ended up sealing the game with her only sack that was for a safety. The final score of this game should have been at least 30 to 6. Airborne scored on a play where the entire Phoenix defense stopped since we all thought Greg had touched the sideline. Therefore, everyone needs to play until the whistle. Greg kept going and the defense just stood there.

 

Spin Doctors vs Sneaky Snakes (19-13)

 

In what is Raph’s final game of the season, he pulled out a win in what seemed like an upset. The game was very boring and took forever to open up the scoring. Spin Doctors added a few new players to replace the ones they lost, but now all they are in a Chiefs team with a different QB at least for now. It wasn’t until 5 minutes left in the first half before someone scored and it was spin Doctors on a pass from Raph to new acquisition Ryan for a 14-yard TD. Spin Doctors started the second half with the ball and scored on their opening possession. That was followed up by an interception which didn’t take Raph long to find the endzone again. That was it for scoring from Spin Doctors. Raph had 18 completions and 15 went to 3 players with 5 each, but only 2 of them had any real yards. A few weeks ago, Sneaky Snakes were all the talk and now they look mediocre at best. They can’t seem to score and can’t stop anyone. A few weeks ago, Terry had Dave penciled in as the division MVP, not anymore. I know Sneaky Snakes were missing a player or two, but you shouldn’t struggle this much, especially down the stretch. I hope Jie will be back from his exciting vacation to Ottawa by next week or they might lose again. Also, who takes a vacation to Ottawa?

 

That is, it for my recap of week 7, only 2 weeks left.

 

Top Performances of the Week

 

With the weather being nicer this week, and by that I mean not raining, the field conditions still sucked, but the numbers went up and making my picks a little bit harder. I hope no one got used to playing without the rain because it looks to be back this weekend. Here are the players that I felt balled out this week.

 

Division 1

 

Offense

Last season was Phil Pharand’s first time in the league, but a few players knew who he was before then and by now everyone knows who he is. This week Phil made 12 catches for 173 yards and 4 TDs, not bad for a guy who was in D3 last season.

 

Defense

I’m not going to sugarcoat it at all here. This week I think everyone in D1 forgot how to play defense. That includes this week’s winner Kevin Smuda. His stat line has to be the worst ever for one of my picks. Kevin had 1 tackle and 1 pick which he scored on.

 

Division 2

 

Offense

I’m sure that Jonathan Plourde has won this award before, but if not, he got it this week (ed’s note: I mean, he got it this week whether or not he got it before). Jonathan was 20 of 28 for 225 yards, 6 TDs, 1 1point convert, 2 2point converts and threw 1 pick. On the ground he ran 7 times for 37 yards.

 

Defense

When players talk about good solid rushers in the division you never hear them mention Carlo Lopez. All Carlos did this week was make 3 tackles which just happened to be all sacks. If Carlos keeps this us everyone in the division will know his name or at least the QBs will.

 

Division 3

 

Two-way player

After looking over all the stats and trying to figure it all out I came to only one conclusion and that was that I couldn’t pick an offensive player or a defensive player, but I was able to pick one player that balled out on both sides of the ball. That person would be Ryan Dobbs-Garnett. Ryan played 2 games this week and had some impressive numbers. Ryan made 17 catches for 156 yards, 5 TDs and 2 2-point converts. On Defense Ryan made 1 tackle and picked off 4 passes. Not bad for a guy last summer in Brossard was told he couldn’t catch. Yes, I’m everywhere and I hear all.

 

Division 4

 

Offense

I ended up having to pick between two receivers with similar numbers except one did it in one game and it took the other two games. I went with the guy who only played one game this week and that was Marco Gavita. Marco made 4 catches for 88 yards, 4 TDs and 1 1point convert.

 

Defense

This player is better known as a passer, not a guy who plays great defense. This week Adam Gorzen played well on both sides, but really stood out on defense where he picked off 3 passes.

 

There you have it my players of the week. With only 2 weeks left your time is running out to show everyone you’re a top dog. Go out, bust your ass, put up good great numbers, and make sure you do all this while helping secure a victory for your team and you might make my list in the next two weeks.

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
Winter Div 1
Winter Div 2
Winter Div 3
Winter Women
Aces Flag Football