Season 3 Week 1 Rankings for USA #7 (Western Conference)
I could use some help doing these, so if any of the owners/GM's or even people on the team could PM me what you thought went right and wrong in your games (like what I've done here), it would save me a bunch of time. Thanks
Disclaimer: I am the owner of the New Brunswick n00bs and this is only my opinion based upon how the teams looked when I saw them
1. Silverymoon Elves
2. Waco Davidians
3. Buffalo Rangers
4. Great Plains Reapers
5. Las Vegas Stunners
6. Portland Hitmen
7. Scottsdale Sun Demons
8. New Brunswick n00bs
9. Spicewood Longhorns
10. Oakland Wizards
11. Dallas Red Raiders
12. Miami Cyclones
13. Grand Haven Mist
14. RGB Berzerk
15. Hartford Hellhounds
16. Carolina Bar Stars
1. Silverymoon Elves - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1663
What went right: Defensive Front 7 – While their offense was extremely potent, it was their defensive front seven that was the most impressive part of this game. They pretty much set up camp within Hartford’s offensive backfield, causing both pressure to the QB (19 hurries! 6 sacks!) and stuffing the HBs in the backfield with 8 TFLs. For other teams to score on the Elves, they’ll need to protect their backfields against the Elves’ superb front seven.
What went wrong: Kicker? – In reality, this game was a pretty major warning shot to the rest of the conference that they would be a tough team to beat. If there was one area in which it was a little disappointing, it would be the kicking. The kicker went 1 for 2 on FGs (missing a 41 yarder, making a 44 yarder) and was 6/7 in PATs. While those missed points were inconsequential, it could be a problem if they play a tougher team.
Recent Game: W 51-7 at Hartford
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 1
Next Game: vs RGB Berzerk
2. Waco Davidians - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1220
What went right: Pass Defense – While I don’t think the Red Raiders set it to 100% passing, they sure did pass it a lot again. Like last time, the Davidians’ secondary was ready and compiled 13 PDs and 4 INTs. If they can duplicate this success throughout the season, they could be unstoppable and could challenge for the top spot.
What went wrong: Red Zone Offense – This game was too close considering how dominant the Davidians’ defense was. This was due in large part to inability of the Waco offense to punch the ball into the endzone. They were stalled several times in the red zone and had to settle for field goals. They’ll need to figure out how to get into the end zone to send a more defiant message to the rest of the conference.
Recent Game: W 36-7 vs Dallas
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 2
Next Game: at Buffalo Rangers
3. Buffalo Rangers - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1702
What went right: Balanced Offense – The Rangers have now gotten their feet wet in this league and have showcased an extremely balanced offense that showed success in both the running and passing game gaining over 200 yards in each. They also proved that they could get into the endzone with ease, scoring 6 TDs (4 running, 2 passing) in their multiple trips to the red zone. If they can keep this up they’ll be a tough team to beat.
What went wrong: KR/PR – The actual averages were pretty solid, in fact the PR average was pretty exceptional, but there’s no use in having good averages if you can’t hold onto the ball. The returner just couldn’t secure the ball and ended up putting it on the ground 3 times, 2 of which were recovered by Miami’s ST unit. They got away with it this time, but the Rangers can’t afford to give up free field position like that many other opposing teams.
Recent Game: W 45-14 at Miami
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 3
Next Game: vs Waco Davidians
4. Great Plains Reapers - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1212
What went right: Rush Defense – While Oakland largely threw the ball, the Reapers forced them into it even more by stuffing up the running lanes and preventing them from moving the ball on the ground effectively. Out of the 16 rushes that the Wizards attempted, the Reapers’ defense stuffed them in the backfield 5 times, while only missing one tackle (what happened Miss Piggy?).
What went wrong: Pass Offense – If there wasn’t a 29 yd passing TD, the pass performance would have been considered a pretty bad one, but even with that TD, the pass offense was still pretty mediocre. With an INT and a not-so-impressive pass completion rate, the Reapers need to hope that their aerial attack will be more consistent against better opponents.
Recent Game: W 25-6 at Oakland
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 4
Next Game: at Dallas Red Raiders
5. Las Vegas Stunners - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1219
Contributor: sunder B
What went right: O-line – The Stunners played a great all-around game and the O-line was the foundation on which the offense built itself. With 28 pancakes, 4 TFLs and no hurries or sacks, the O-line really pushed around the Berzerk’s defense. With their O-line leading the way, the backs were able to stuff the ball into the endzone 4 different times. If their O-line can hold up like this against tougher competition, they’ll be able to move up and down the field at will.
What went wrong: Pass Offense? – With 3 TDs, it’s hard for the pass offense to be on the wrong side of things. But with 1 INT and a mediocre passing percentage of less than 60%, this could be one area in which the Stunners could get into trouble. All in all, this game was the type of game that every owner and GM would love to have.
Recent Game: W 51-9 at RGB
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 5
Next Game: vs Scottsdale Sun Demons
6. Portland Hitmen - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1211
Contributor: Farside
What went right: Red Zone Defense – While Spicewood out-gained Portland in yardage, it was Portland’s stiffened defense that prevent the Longhorns from optimizing the points that they could get. If Spicewood was able to score another touchdown, this game would have had the opposite result.
What went wrong: Run Offense – Everyone knows that Portland is a dangerous passing team, but in order for it to be utilized successfully they’ll need to be able to run the ball effectively. In this game, the Mists stuffed up the running lanes and tackled the Hitmen’s backs in the backfield 11 times. Portland needs to figure out how to get their running game going in order to set up the pass or else their one-dimensional offense could be their downfall.
Recent Game: W 21-19 vs Spicewood
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 11
Next Game: at Carolina Bar Stars
7. Scottsdale Sun Demons - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1225
What went right: Turnovers – When Grand Haven drove down the field late in the game, the Sun Demons’ secondary came through in a big way with 3 INTs in the second half. In this close game, that’s all that was needed to pull out the win. They’ll need to continue to manufacture these turnovers in their favor if they hope to pull of some upsets.
What went wrong: Red Zone Offense – While statistically the game was close, the Sun Demons should have been able to put more points up on the board. With multiple trips to the Mists’ 30 yd line, the Sun Demons’ offense only came away with 3 FGs and 1TD. They’re not always going to have such great opportunities to score and will need to learn how to capitalize on the turnovers.
Recent Game: W 16-7 vs Grand Haven
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 12
Next Game: at Las Vegas Stunners
8. New Brunswick n00bs - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1210
What went right: Defensive Secondary – What!? Isn’t this supposed to be one of the n00bs’ weaknesses? Either due to a poor opponent or improved personnel, the n00bs secondary exploded for 7 INTs and 2 forced fumbles. While they won’t be expected to have this performance against tougher passing squads, the fact that they showed some life bodes well for the overall offense.
What went wrong: Red Zone Offense -
Recent Game: W 42-0 vs Carolina
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 10
Next Game: vs Oakland Wizards
9. Spicewood Longhorns - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1214
What went right: Run Defense – The Longhorns were able to effectively stuff up the running lanes so that Portland’s backs couldn’t get very far. With 11 TFLs, the Longhorn’s defense showed that they’d be a tough team to run against and had the personnel to disrupt the backfield.
What went wrong: Red Zone Offense/Kicker – There were a lot of “what-ifs” in this game for Spicewood. The first of which is what if they had scored another TD instead of kicking a field goal. With so many great scoring opportunities, the Longhorns only got into the endzone once, which wasn’t very impressive. The other what-if question is what-if the kicker had made one of the two long FGs. The kicker could have been the hero in this game, but ultimately he could be considered the goat. With a close game raging he missed two FGs that could have won the game for the Longhorns. Alas, these are factors that the Longhorns need to address immediately if they hope to claw their way to the top.
Recent Game: L 19-21 at Portland
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 6
Next Game: vs Hartford Hellhounds
10. Oakland Wizards - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1215
What went right: Secondary? – This was a tough game for the Wizards to swallow. Hoping to avenge their loss to Great Plains last season, they got outplayed in almost every facet of this game. The one silver lining in this fiasco was that their secondary was very active. Although they gave up a big pass play, they kept the Reaper’s WRs in check for the most part and kept the pass completion percentage to an unimpressive 56%. This was aided in part by 17 deflected passes and an INT. If the Wizards can figure out how to turn more of those DPs into INTs, they could be a scary team to face.
What went wrong: KR/PR – Seriously, what is up with the returners this week? The Wizards certainly didn’t help themselves when their KR/PR turned the ball over twice. You can’t give good teams like Great Plains those free yards if you hope to beat them. The game should have been much closer, but the Wizards shot themselves in the foot too many times. Hopefully they figure out this issue quickly because these types of mistakes could spell doom in this competitive conference.
Hellen Keller Watch: Let us have a moment of silence because it seems that Hellen Keller has left USA A7 for new adventures. We are grateful to have been graced with her presence and pray to the GLB gods that she is well equipped to face the world with her fully functional sonar appendages.
Recent Game: L 6-25 vs Great Plains
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 8
Next Game: at New Brunswick n00bs
11. Dallas Red Raiders - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1217
Contributor: Modok
What went right: Red Zone Defense – All things considered, the Red Raiders’ defense did an admirable job containing the Waco offense. With one of the TDs coming on a PR for a TD, the Red Raiders defense only allowed 2 TDs on Waco’s 6 trips to the red zone. Take away that PR for a TD and the INTs and this would have been a completely different game.
What went wrong: Turnovers – 2 words: Déjà vu. Hoping to erase the memory of last season’s debacle, the Red Raiders laid another egg. With 5 turnovers (4 INTs, 1 lost fumble) it’s tough to beat a solid team, much less last season’s regular season champ. The Red Raiders are in desperate need of a QB who doesn’t wilt under pressure and will need the QBs to pick themselves up and improve for their next game.
Recent Game: L 7-36 at Waco
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 7
Next Game: vs Great Plains Reapers
12. Miami Cyclones - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1955
What went right: Receivers – Considering how much the ball was thrown to them, 2 drops isn’t that bad especially considering that the players who dropped the balls were a TE and HB. With the bulk of their yards being gained through the air in this game, the Cyclones needed all the help they could get and the receivers did the job asked of them. Unfortunately, the odds were stacked too heavily against them and it was a futile effort in this game. However, people shouldn’t write them off and should be cognizant of their receivers.
What went wrong: O-line – There was a lot of things wrong in this game, but the one concern was the lack of protection for the QB. With 5 hurries and a sack, it’s no wonder that the QBs had 3 INTs, no QBs confidence can save them from so many demoralizing plays. Also, the backs got stuffed up in the backfield 6 times resulting in a truly sub-par running performance. If the O-line continues to struggle, the Cyclones’ could be in trouble.
Recent Game: L 14-45 vs Buffalo Rangers
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 9
Next Game: at Grand Haven Mists
13. Grand Haven Mist - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1222
Contributor: Valhalla
What went right: Linebacking Corp – In this game, the defense kept the Mists within striking distance and at the core of their defensive performance was the linebacking corp. They accrued 5 TFLs and over 20 tackles to keep the Sun Demons’ offense at bay, especially in the red zone. If they can continue to hold teams to FGs instead of TDs, they’ll be able to pull out some wins.
What went wrong: QB play – While their protection was quite poor, their performance put the defense in some tough spots with a bevy of incompletions and 3 INTs. If they had cut down on their errors, the Mists would have had a fighting chance to knock off the Sun Demons. They’ll need the QBs to perform better if they hope to coax enough offense to beat other teams.
Recent Game: L 7-16 at Scottsdale
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 13
Next Game: vs Miami Cyclones
14. RGB Berzerk - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1223
What went right: Receiving Corp – In a pretty dreary game, the one shining beacon for the Berzerks were their receivers. Out of 27 passes thrown near them, they reeled in 25 of them, which is a pretty impressive feat considering that there were 10 different receivers, 9 of which caught the ball. If their QB becomes more accurate, teams will need to work about the Berzerk’s aerial attack.
What went wrong: Dark Gable and Joey Ligs – As the RGB fans return home, they will have nightmares about these two players. Gable single-handedly gave the RGB QBs all they could handle by tallying up 5 INTs!! (read that again…5…), while Ligs stretched the Berzerk’s secondary past its breaking point with 3 long TDs (16, 31.5, and 74.5 yd long).
Recent Game: L 9-51 vs Las Vegas
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 14
Next Game: at Silverymoon Elves
15. Hartford Hellhounds - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1216
What went right: Punter – In a game in which they were thoroughly out-leveled, this was one of the few areas in which the Hellhounds performed better than the Elves. Their punter, Carry Ball, was probably Hartford’s biggest defensive weapon averaging over 36 yds/punt helping to make the field a little bit longer for the Elves.
What went wrong: Missed Tackles – Against one of the top teams, Hartford needed to play mistake-free football. In this game that did not happen and one of the biggest areas of concern was the plethora of missed tackles. With 18 missed tackles, the Hellhounds allowed the Elves to gain extra yards that they couldn’t afford. If the Hellhounds can’t figure out how to wrap-up on their tackles, then this will be a long season.
Recent Game: L 7-51 vs Silverymoon
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 15
Next Game: at Spicewood Longhorns
16. Carolina Bar Stars - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=734
What went right: Red Zone Defense – Considering that there were so many turnovers, the Bar Stars did an extremely respectable job limiting the n00bs offense from scoring more points. The fact that they forced the n00bs to kick 8 FGs while only allowing 3 TDs shows that in the red zone the Bar Stars’ defense clamps down.
What went wrong: Turnovers – It’s very hard to score points, much less win a game if you turn the ball over 9 times. The 7 INTs were a demoralizing blow to the offense and really stymied their offensive production. Whether it was computer forced or intentional, the heavy stress on passing hurt them in this game.
Recent Game: L 0-42 at New Brunswick
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 16
Next Game: vs Portland Hitmen
Offensive Player of the Week:
QB Alex Johnson Silverymoon – 30/44 (68.2% completion), 337 yds passing, 5 TDs, 1 INT, 119.2 passer rating
Defensive Co-Players of the Week:
CB Dark Gable Las Vegas – 7 tackles, 1 PD, 5 INTs (for 8 yds), 0 missed tackles
FS Ball Hawk Dawk New Brunswick – 2 tackles, 4 INTs (for 13 yds), 0 missed tackles
Special Teams Player of the Week:
K David Allison New Brunswick – 3/3 PATs, 7/8 FGs (missed: 19 yd, made: 26, 26, 35.5, 42, 43.5, 50, 50 yds)
CB Marty Motallico Waco – 1 KR for 28 yds, 3 PRs for 101 yds (33.7 yd avg) with a 85.5 yd PR for a TD (not to mention 2 tackles and an INT on defense)
Games of the Week:
Originally posted by Gold Star Game
#2 Waco at #3 Buffalo
Coming off of impressive wins, these two heavyweights are meeting to see who can challenge the Elves for the top spot. These two teams are similar in the fact that their offenses are diverse and are hard to gameplan against. However, they have never faced each other before, so it’ll be interesting to see how they utilize the results of past games.
Prediction: This one will be a very close game, but the edge goes to Waco because I don’t think that Buffalo has faced a defense quite as solid.
Predicted Score: 28-24 Waco
#4 Great Plains at #11 Dallas
This is another tough match-up for both these teams. Last season Dallas pulled a shocking upset and put a dent in the Reapers’ bid for a higher seeding. There is a lot on the line for both teams. For Dallas, they need a win to prevent plummeting morale from dooming them in their tough schedule, while for Great Plains, they’re out for revenge and hope to win to stay in the hunt for a home playoff game. The outcome of this game will be hinged upon how well Dallas bounces back from their loss to Waco.
Prediction: There are a few soft spots in the Reapers’ secondary that Dallas will be able to exploit. I believe that Dallas will be able to find a way to win this game again and shake up the early rankings.
Predicted Score: 24-19 Dallas
#5 Las Vegas vs #7 Scottsdale
In a battle of the southwest, Scottsdale hopes to build on its momentum bolster its resume for a playoff spot, while Las Vegas needs to keep on winning in order to challenge for a home playoff berth. With so many solid teams in this conference, neither team has the luxury of resting on their laurels and will need to secure a win here.
Prediction: In their beat-down of RGB, the Stunners showed why they are a team to be feared. While the rankings are close together, the talent gap is larger than indicated due to the disparity in their previous opponents. Las Vegas shouldn’t have a problem dispatching Scottsdale.
Predicted Score: 34-13 Las Vegas
#12 Miami at #13 Grand Haven
For Grand Haven this is a very important game. After losing to a fellow bubble team in Portland, they need to prove to the conference that they’re not the same old Grand Haven team that could be taken lightly. Sitting in the 13th slot, they still have a chance to make a play for a playoff spot, but they’ll need to beat teams like Miami to get there. For Miami, they need to be able to bounce back from a demoralizing loss to the Rangers.
Prediction: Miami’s beatdown was unforeseen (by me anyways) and is an extreme cause for concern. Why did they lose? Bad builds? Bad tactics? Who knows, but after getting burned by picking them for the first set of games, I will need proof that they have fight in them. Grand Haven showed more fight in their game. I think they will pull out the win in an ugly affair.
Predicted Score: 13-10 Grand Haven
Current “Game of the Week” Record: 3-1
If you have a different opinion of the players of the week, have a “play of the week” or have a prediction of the “Game of the Week” post below. Let’s see how this season turns out and good luck in week 2
I could use some help doing these, so if any of the owners/GM's or even people on the team could PM me what you thought went right and wrong in your games (like what I've done here), it would save me a bunch of time. Thanks
Disclaimer: I am the owner of the New Brunswick n00bs and this is only my opinion based upon how the teams looked when I saw them
1. Silverymoon Elves
2. Waco Davidians
3. Buffalo Rangers
4. Great Plains Reapers
5. Las Vegas Stunners
6. Portland Hitmen
7. Scottsdale Sun Demons
8. New Brunswick n00bs
9. Spicewood Longhorns
10. Oakland Wizards
11. Dallas Red Raiders
12. Miami Cyclones
13. Grand Haven Mist
14. RGB Berzerk
15. Hartford Hellhounds
16. Carolina Bar Stars
1. Silverymoon Elves - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1663
What went right: Defensive Front 7 – While their offense was extremely potent, it was their defensive front seven that was the most impressive part of this game. They pretty much set up camp within Hartford’s offensive backfield, causing both pressure to the QB (19 hurries! 6 sacks!) and stuffing the HBs in the backfield with 8 TFLs. For other teams to score on the Elves, they’ll need to protect their backfields against the Elves’ superb front seven.
What went wrong: Kicker? – In reality, this game was a pretty major warning shot to the rest of the conference that they would be a tough team to beat. If there was one area in which it was a little disappointing, it would be the kicking. The kicker went 1 for 2 on FGs (missing a 41 yarder, making a 44 yarder) and was 6/7 in PATs. While those missed points were inconsequential, it could be a problem if they play a tougher team.
Recent Game: W 51-7 at Hartford
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 1
Next Game: vs RGB Berzerk
2. Waco Davidians - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1220
What went right: Pass Defense – While I don’t think the Red Raiders set it to 100% passing, they sure did pass it a lot again. Like last time, the Davidians’ secondary was ready and compiled 13 PDs and 4 INTs. If they can duplicate this success throughout the season, they could be unstoppable and could challenge for the top spot.
What went wrong: Red Zone Offense – This game was too close considering how dominant the Davidians’ defense was. This was due in large part to inability of the Waco offense to punch the ball into the endzone. They were stalled several times in the red zone and had to settle for field goals. They’ll need to figure out how to get into the end zone to send a more defiant message to the rest of the conference.
Recent Game: W 36-7 vs Dallas
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 2
Next Game: at Buffalo Rangers
3. Buffalo Rangers - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1702
What went right: Balanced Offense – The Rangers have now gotten their feet wet in this league and have showcased an extremely balanced offense that showed success in both the running and passing game gaining over 200 yards in each. They also proved that they could get into the endzone with ease, scoring 6 TDs (4 running, 2 passing) in their multiple trips to the red zone. If they can keep this up they’ll be a tough team to beat.
What went wrong: KR/PR – The actual averages were pretty solid, in fact the PR average was pretty exceptional, but there’s no use in having good averages if you can’t hold onto the ball. The returner just couldn’t secure the ball and ended up putting it on the ground 3 times, 2 of which were recovered by Miami’s ST unit. They got away with it this time, but the Rangers can’t afford to give up free field position like that many other opposing teams.
Recent Game: W 45-14 at Miami
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 3
Next Game: vs Waco Davidians
4. Great Plains Reapers - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1212
What went right: Rush Defense – While Oakland largely threw the ball, the Reapers forced them into it even more by stuffing up the running lanes and preventing them from moving the ball on the ground effectively. Out of the 16 rushes that the Wizards attempted, the Reapers’ defense stuffed them in the backfield 5 times, while only missing one tackle (what happened Miss Piggy?).
What went wrong: Pass Offense – If there wasn’t a 29 yd passing TD, the pass performance would have been considered a pretty bad one, but even with that TD, the pass offense was still pretty mediocre. With an INT and a not-so-impressive pass completion rate, the Reapers need to hope that their aerial attack will be more consistent against better opponents.
Recent Game: W 25-6 at Oakland
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 4
Next Game: at Dallas Red Raiders
5. Las Vegas Stunners - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1219
Contributor: sunder B
What went right: O-line – The Stunners played a great all-around game and the O-line was the foundation on which the offense built itself. With 28 pancakes, 4 TFLs and no hurries or sacks, the O-line really pushed around the Berzerk’s defense. With their O-line leading the way, the backs were able to stuff the ball into the endzone 4 different times. If their O-line can hold up like this against tougher competition, they’ll be able to move up and down the field at will.
What went wrong: Pass Offense? – With 3 TDs, it’s hard for the pass offense to be on the wrong side of things. But with 1 INT and a mediocre passing percentage of less than 60%, this could be one area in which the Stunners could get into trouble. All in all, this game was the type of game that every owner and GM would love to have.
Recent Game: W 51-9 at RGB
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 5
Next Game: vs Scottsdale Sun Demons
6. Portland Hitmen - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1211
Contributor: Farside
What went right: Red Zone Defense – While Spicewood out-gained Portland in yardage, it was Portland’s stiffened defense that prevent the Longhorns from optimizing the points that they could get. If Spicewood was able to score another touchdown, this game would have had the opposite result.
What went wrong: Run Offense – Everyone knows that Portland is a dangerous passing team, but in order for it to be utilized successfully they’ll need to be able to run the ball effectively. In this game, the Mists stuffed up the running lanes and tackled the Hitmen’s backs in the backfield 11 times. Portland needs to figure out how to get their running game going in order to set up the pass or else their one-dimensional offense could be their downfall.
Recent Game: W 21-19 vs Spicewood
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 11
Next Game: at Carolina Bar Stars
7. Scottsdale Sun Demons - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1225
What went right: Turnovers – When Grand Haven drove down the field late in the game, the Sun Demons’ secondary came through in a big way with 3 INTs in the second half. In this close game, that’s all that was needed to pull out the win. They’ll need to continue to manufacture these turnovers in their favor if they hope to pull of some upsets.
What went wrong: Red Zone Offense – While statistically the game was close, the Sun Demons should have been able to put more points up on the board. With multiple trips to the Mists’ 30 yd line, the Sun Demons’ offense only came away with 3 FGs and 1TD. They’re not always going to have such great opportunities to score and will need to learn how to capitalize on the turnovers.
Recent Game: W 16-7 vs Grand Haven
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 12
Next Game: at Las Vegas Stunners
8. New Brunswick n00bs - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1210
What went right: Defensive Secondary – What!? Isn’t this supposed to be one of the n00bs’ weaknesses? Either due to a poor opponent or improved personnel, the n00bs secondary exploded for 7 INTs and 2 forced fumbles. While they won’t be expected to have this performance against tougher passing squads, the fact that they showed some life bodes well for the overall offense.
What went wrong: Red Zone Offense -
Recent Game: W 42-0 vs Carolina
Record: 1-0
Previous Rank: 10
Next Game: vs Oakland Wizards
9. Spicewood Longhorns - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1214
What went right: Run Defense – The Longhorns were able to effectively stuff up the running lanes so that Portland’s backs couldn’t get very far. With 11 TFLs, the Longhorn’s defense showed that they’d be a tough team to run against and had the personnel to disrupt the backfield.
What went wrong: Red Zone Offense/Kicker – There were a lot of “what-ifs” in this game for Spicewood. The first of which is what if they had scored another TD instead of kicking a field goal. With so many great scoring opportunities, the Longhorns only got into the endzone once, which wasn’t very impressive. The other what-if question is what-if the kicker had made one of the two long FGs. The kicker could have been the hero in this game, but ultimately he could be considered the goat. With a close game raging he missed two FGs that could have won the game for the Longhorns. Alas, these are factors that the Longhorns need to address immediately if they hope to claw their way to the top.
Recent Game: L 19-21 at Portland
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 6
Next Game: vs Hartford Hellhounds
10. Oakland Wizards - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1215
What went right: Secondary? – This was a tough game for the Wizards to swallow. Hoping to avenge their loss to Great Plains last season, they got outplayed in almost every facet of this game. The one silver lining in this fiasco was that their secondary was very active. Although they gave up a big pass play, they kept the Reaper’s WRs in check for the most part and kept the pass completion percentage to an unimpressive 56%. This was aided in part by 17 deflected passes and an INT. If the Wizards can figure out how to turn more of those DPs into INTs, they could be a scary team to face.
What went wrong: KR/PR – Seriously, what is up with the returners this week? The Wizards certainly didn’t help themselves when their KR/PR turned the ball over twice. You can’t give good teams like Great Plains those free yards if you hope to beat them. The game should have been much closer, but the Wizards shot themselves in the foot too many times. Hopefully they figure out this issue quickly because these types of mistakes could spell doom in this competitive conference.
Hellen Keller Watch: Let us have a moment of silence because it seems that Hellen Keller has left USA A7 for new adventures. We are grateful to have been graced with her presence and pray to the GLB gods that she is well equipped to face the world with her fully functional sonar appendages.
Recent Game: L 6-25 vs Great Plains
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 8
Next Game: at New Brunswick n00bs
11. Dallas Red Raiders - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1217
Contributor: Modok
What went right: Red Zone Defense – All things considered, the Red Raiders’ defense did an admirable job containing the Waco offense. With one of the TDs coming on a PR for a TD, the Red Raiders defense only allowed 2 TDs on Waco’s 6 trips to the red zone. Take away that PR for a TD and the INTs and this would have been a completely different game.
What went wrong: Turnovers – 2 words: Déjà vu. Hoping to erase the memory of last season’s debacle, the Red Raiders laid another egg. With 5 turnovers (4 INTs, 1 lost fumble) it’s tough to beat a solid team, much less last season’s regular season champ. The Red Raiders are in desperate need of a QB who doesn’t wilt under pressure and will need the QBs to pick themselves up and improve for their next game.
Recent Game: L 7-36 at Waco
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 7
Next Game: vs Great Plains Reapers
12. Miami Cyclones - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1955
What went right: Receivers – Considering how much the ball was thrown to them, 2 drops isn’t that bad especially considering that the players who dropped the balls were a TE and HB. With the bulk of their yards being gained through the air in this game, the Cyclones needed all the help they could get and the receivers did the job asked of them. Unfortunately, the odds were stacked too heavily against them and it was a futile effort in this game. However, people shouldn’t write them off and should be cognizant of their receivers.
What went wrong: O-line – There was a lot of things wrong in this game, but the one concern was the lack of protection for the QB. With 5 hurries and a sack, it’s no wonder that the QBs had 3 INTs, no QBs confidence can save them from so many demoralizing plays. Also, the backs got stuffed up in the backfield 6 times resulting in a truly sub-par running performance. If the O-line continues to struggle, the Cyclones’ could be in trouble.
Recent Game: L 14-45 vs Buffalo Rangers
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 9
Next Game: at Grand Haven Mists
13. Grand Haven Mist - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1222
Contributor: Valhalla
What went right: Linebacking Corp – In this game, the defense kept the Mists within striking distance and at the core of their defensive performance was the linebacking corp. They accrued 5 TFLs and over 20 tackles to keep the Sun Demons’ offense at bay, especially in the red zone. If they can continue to hold teams to FGs instead of TDs, they’ll be able to pull out some wins.
What went wrong: QB play – While their protection was quite poor, their performance put the defense in some tough spots with a bevy of incompletions and 3 INTs. If they had cut down on their errors, the Mists would have had a fighting chance to knock off the Sun Demons. They’ll need the QBs to perform better if they hope to coax enough offense to beat other teams.
Recent Game: L 7-16 at Scottsdale
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 13
Next Game: vs Miami Cyclones
14. RGB Berzerk - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1223
What went right: Receiving Corp – In a pretty dreary game, the one shining beacon for the Berzerks were their receivers. Out of 27 passes thrown near them, they reeled in 25 of them, which is a pretty impressive feat considering that there were 10 different receivers, 9 of which caught the ball. If their QB becomes more accurate, teams will need to work about the Berzerk’s aerial attack.
What went wrong: Dark Gable and Joey Ligs – As the RGB fans return home, they will have nightmares about these two players. Gable single-handedly gave the RGB QBs all they could handle by tallying up 5 INTs!! (read that again…5…), while Ligs stretched the Berzerk’s secondary past its breaking point with 3 long TDs (16, 31.5, and 74.5 yd long).
Recent Game: L 9-51 vs Las Vegas
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 14
Next Game: at Silverymoon Elves
15. Hartford Hellhounds - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=1216
What went right: Punter – In a game in which they were thoroughly out-leveled, this was one of the few areas in which the Hellhounds performed better than the Elves. Their punter, Carry Ball, was probably Hartford’s biggest defensive weapon averaging over 36 yds/punt helping to make the field a little bit longer for the Elves.
What went wrong: Missed Tackles – Against one of the top teams, Hartford needed to play mistake-free football. In this game that did not happen and one of the biggest areas of concern was the plethora of missed tackles. With 18 missed tackles, the Hellhounds allowed the Elves to gain extra yards that they couldn’t afford. If the Hellhounds can’t figure out how to wrap-up on their tackles, then this will be a long season.
Recent Game: L 7-51 vs Silverymoon
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 15
Next Game: at Spicewood Longhorns
16. Carolina Bar Stars - http://goallineblitz.com/game/team.pl?team_id=734
What went right: Red Zone Defense – Considering that there were so many turnovers, the Bar Stars did an extremely respectable job limiting the n00bs offense from scoring more points. The fact that they forced the n00bs to kick 8 FGs while only allowing 3 TDs shows that in the red zone the Bar Stars’ defense clamps down.
What went wrong: Turnovers – It’s very hard to score points, much less win a game if you turn the ball over 9 times. The 7 INTs were a demoralizing blow to the offense and really stymied their offensive production. Whether it was computer forced or intentional, the heavy stress on passing hurt them in this game.
Recent Game: L 0-42 at New Brunswick
Record: 0-1
Previous Rank: 16
Next Game: vs Portland Hitmen
Offensive Player of the Week:
QB Alex Johnson Silverymoon – 30/44 (68.2% completion), 337 yds passing, 5 TDs, 1 INT, 119.2 passer rating
Defensive Co-Players of the Week:
CB Dark Gable Las Vegas – 7 tackles, 1 PD, 5 INTs (for 8 yds), 0 missed tackles
FS Ball Hawk Dawk New Brunswick – 2 tackles, 4 INTs (for 13 yds), 0 missed tackles
Special Teams Player of the Week:
K David Allison New Brunswick – 3/3 PATs, 7/8 FGs (missed: 19 yd, made: 26, 26, 35.5, 42, 43.5, 50, 50 yds)
CB Marty Motallico Waco – 1 KR for 28 yds, 3 PRs for 101 yds (33.7 yd avg) with a 85.5 yd PR for a TD (not to mention 2 tackles and an INT on defense)
Games of the Week:
Originally posted by Gold Star Game
#2 Waco at #3 Buffalo
Coming off of impressive wins, these two heavyweights are meeting to see who can challenge the Elves for the top spot. These two teams are similar in the fact that their offenses are diverse and are hard to gameplan against. However, they have never faced each other before, so it’ll be interesting to see how they utilize the results of past games.
Prediction: This one will be a very close game, but the edge goes to Waco because I don’t think that Buffalo has faced a defense quite as solid.
Predicted Score: 28-24 Waco
#4 Great Plains at #11 Dallas
This is another tough match-up for both these teams. Last season Dallas pulled a shocking upset and put a dent in the Reapers’ bid for a higher seeding. There is a lot on the line for both teams. For Dallas, they need a win to prevent plummeting morale from dooming them in their tough schedule, while for Great Plains, they’re out for revenge and hope to win to stay in the hunt for a home playoff game. The outcome of this game will be hinged upon how well Dallas bounces back from their loss to Waco.
Prediction: There are a few soft spots in the Reapers’ secondary that Dallas will be able to exploit. I believe that Dallas will be able to find a way to win this game again and shake up the early rankings.
Predicted Score: 24-19 Dallas
#5 Las Vegas vs #7 Scottsdale
In a battle of the southwest, Scottsdale hopes to build on its momentum bolster its resume for a playoff spot, while Las Vegas needs to keep on winning in order to challenge for a home playoff berth. With so many solid teams in this conference, neither team has the luxury of resting on their laurels and will need to secure a win here.
Prediction: In their beat-down of RGB, the Stunners showed why they are a team to be feared. While the rankings are close together, the talent gap is larger than indicated due to the disparity in their previous opponents. Las Vegas shouldn’t have a problem dispatching Scottsdale.
Predicted Score: 34-13 Las Vegas
#12 Miami at #13 Grand Haven
For Grand Haven this is a very important game. After losing to a fellow bubble team in Portland, they need to prove to the conference that they’re not the same old Grand Haven team that could be taken lightly. Sitting in the 13th slot, they still have a chance to make a play for a playoff spot, but they’ll need to beat teams like Miami to get there. For Miami, they need to be able to bounce back from a demoralizing loss to the Rangers.
Prediction: Miami’s beatdown was unforeseen (by me anyways) and is an extreme cause for concern. Why did they lose? Bad builds? Bad tactics? Who knows, but after getting burned by picking them for the first set of games, I will need proof that they have fight in them. Grand Haven showed more fight in their game. I think they will pull out the win in an ugly affair.
Predicted Score: 13-10 Grand Haven
Current “Game of the Week” Record: 3-1
If you have a different opinion of the players of the week, have a “play of the week” or have a prediction of the “Game of the Week” post below. Let’s see how this season turns out and good luck in week 2
