12-01-2021, 04:32 PM
(This post was last modified: 12-07-2021, 05:29 AM by .simo. Edited 1 time in total.)
In a slight analog to predicting which teams will make the playoffs, I’ve created a power rankings list for the Season 32 teams through week 11. We’ve got some very tight seeding at this point in the season, with the ASFC having all but one team with at least 5 wins. While the NSFC is a bit more top heavy, three teams are within one win of each other for the top seed. So, with 5 games to go, let’s see where they all stack up – REVERSE ORDER!
POWER RANKINGS
NUMBER 8
SARASOTA SAILFISH (5-6)
Sarasota, while sitting at a respectable 5-6, is 2 games behind third place in the NFSC. While the season has been a dogfight, the Sailfish have 3 of its 5 remaining games against teams with 5 or less wins. Although week 12 will be a tough ask as they travel to Colorado to face the 7-4 Yeti, if they can manage to find a way to win then we may see the ‘fish swim up the river.
Sarasota has preserved after starting the season 0-3, and though they were barely able to stave off a 3-game losing streak with a 7-point win against the floundering Baltimore Hawks, they’ll take what they can get. The main culprit of this up-and-down season has been the lack of playmaking from its offense. While QB Mike Boss Jr has stayed clear of turnovers and posted a solid if not spectacular 20:7 TD:INT ratio, his completion percentage and yards represent a lack of efficiency and big play threat. WR and Captain Jackson Kingston has been solid, posting top-5 receiving numbers, but outside of him, Sarasota is lacking explosiveness. Possession receivers Saleem Spence and Mario Messi have been solid, but the point remains. The run game has been below-par, averaging 3.9 yards per carry, tied for 3rd worst in the league. This despite an offensive line that has outperformed expectations.
Ultimately it’s been the aging but capable Sailfish defense that has buoyed this team. Thanks to timely sacks, forced fumbles, and interceptions, Sarasota has cobbled together something resembling its vaunted defenses of old. Kackpoo, and Lover have done it all, with Jackson and Goku providing edge threats. And then there’s the ageless one, 11-year veteran Cuco Clemente still making plays from his free safety position, including 3 interceptions and a TD. With the 4th-ranked defense in the league for points-against, this team still can lean on defensive playmakers in big games, and for that alone still remains a threat should they gobble up the last playoff spot.
NUMBER 7
COLORADO YETI (7-4)
Well even I have to admit I feel a bit like a fool here. Ranking a 7-4 team that is on a 3-game win streak and is one game out of first place as the 7th team on the power rankings. But here’s the problem. Colorado has only 2 wins against teams at or above .500 on the season, both of which were at home. While not necessarily the Yeti’s fault as the NSFC has only 2 other teams above .500, it tough to get a true feel for just how good this team is. Ultimately, what is clear about the Colorado Yeti, is they will go as far as superstar and MVP candidate Mattathias Caliban will take them. At nearly 4,000 yards and 32 touchdowns, he is the clear cut most dangerous man under center. Caliban utilizes his receiving core to the max, as he’s got two receivers in Delacour and Maxwell vying for top receiver in the league, with his 3rd receiver Asui sitting at second in the league with 11 receiving touchdowns. In total , the Yeti boast 4 receivers with at least 5 touchdowns!
Unfortunately for Caliban and his merry band of pass-catchers, this is a one-dimensional team. The Yeti are the only ISFL team without a running back with at least 100 carries. Moreover, they sit near last in the league in yards against and are middling in points against. While its easy to rail against the rest of the team and surmise that Caliban is being held back, the defense really is an enigma – one that could go in either direction within the next few weeks. As earlier stated, they give up tons of yards, and yet the Yeti have forced the most fumbles in the league at 18, and have the third-most sacks in the league. Is this the sign of a defense that’s been on the end of a lot of tough-luck drives and is ready to become an impact unit, or have they managed to hide some of their wins behind costly fumbles and inopportune sacks allowed from their opponents? There are arguments for both sides, but its linebacking core is undoubtedly one of the top-3 in the league today. If Melvin Murder-Moose and Rusty Rucker can continue to impose their wills on opposing offenses, there’s no doubt Caliban will make them pay on the other end. So the question for the Yeti is two-part: Not only can they prove they’re more than just a spray-and-pray offensive team, but can they win against good teams. Week 12 against Sarasota will be a good test-case for Colorado and will test the power rankings right away!
NUMBER 6
NEW YORK SILVERBACKS (6-5)
HOT TAKE ALERT! A 6-win team sitting prettier than a 7-win team. This team has showed an ability to do a lot of things. Put up big points, play lock-down defense, beat the best. But what they haven’t done? Win on the road. And that worry may be something that costs them come playoff time since they’re currently sitting at 4th in the ASFC. Despite the less-than-ideal road record at 2-4, it is worth noting that its road schedule has been nothing short of brutal. It’s 4 losses on the road are to league best Honolulu, and three 7+ win teams in Austin, Arizona, and Colorado. What’s more, its last two road defeats were by a combined 2points. NY also boasts a road win over Berlin. So really it’s not as bad as it looks. It’s final two road games are against league-worst Orange County and 5-win San Jose. Now New York doesn’t really blow doors off when you look t the stat sheet, somehow they’re still sitting at 2nd in the league in points for, and first for yards. This all thanks to MVP candidate, Sam Howitzer. He’s only thrown 21 touchdowns, but he’s first with an incredible 69% completion percentage…nice! He’s also 3rd in yards, proving that his efficiency hasn’t stopped him from moving the ball at will. His favorite target? Tugg Speedman. The 7-year vet has come into his own, now leading the league in receptions and yards. Conversely, the Silverbacks have also defended the pass well. The issue for this team is a lack of a run game and an inability to stop the run. Its defense is sitting at 14th in the league in rush defense. Perhaps the defense is a bit of a mirage, as it has benefitted from recovering 17 fumbles on the year! The Silverbacks should be able to bring its win streak to 3 after a week 12 showdown with the 3-game-losing-streak Orange County Otters. Assuming they’re able to get right, they’ll be hosting the Austin Copperheads in what could be a game with large implications. Although Austin is a terrific team, they’ve lost 2-straight and host league-best Honolulu in week 12.
NUMBER 5
AUSTIN COPPERHEADS (8-3)
Tied for the second-best record in the league. 1 win out of first. Fifth on the playoff power-rankings list. Sound about right? Yes this is probably a terrible injustice, but why not take a few risks with your rankings? Not like anyone is going to read this anyways.
Austin came out sa-wiiing-ing this year. A home opener W, followed by a tough loss on the road to a terrific Honolulu team, culminated in a 7 game win streak that took them into week 10 sitting at 8-1. What a start to the season! The 8 wins included 4 40+ point performances. Daytona and the gang were unstoppable. That is, until they were.
Regardless of its ranking here, which is subjective, the stats are not. Austin ranks first in the league in points-for, first in rush defense, and then top-half of the league in most other statistical indicators. A team with clear strengths and very very few weaknesses. While the face of the team may be Jackie Daytona, with his dashing good looks and 26 TD’s (3rd in the league), the offensive engine has clearly been Zoe Watts. The 9-year vet out of Stanford is perhaps overlooked thanks to the performances of Goat Tank and Deadly Memes, but Watts has posted the 4th most rushing yards in the league along with an impressive 4.8 average. While no receivers have over 800 yards for Austin, Cowabunga (league leader in receiving TDs at 12) and The Vampire have combined for 18! TD catches. The highest total for a duo in the league. This formula of a ground and pound running game mixed with a dash of bigtime red-zone receiving threats keeps this team balanced and disciplined.
Again, another offensive powerhouse with an unknown commodity on defense. As a team, the numbers are impressive as I mentioned. But is this the product of a frontrunning team? Probably – to a degree. Austin puts up over 30 points per game. This has lead to other teams trying to keep or catch up. The result is a team that gives up only 77 yards on the ground and has 9 INT’s. Teams must throw! Austin has the fewest tackles and TFLs in the league, and are in the bottom handful in forced fumbles, and sacks. The secondary is tried and true, standing up to opposition despite little help from a pass rush. LB Tyler Mountain does Yeoman’s work, accounting for the vast majority of Copperhead tackles and sacks. This despite numerous double teams.
The issue here is, what is helping Arizona is what’s hurting Austin. Recency bias. Austin has lost its last two games, one to the middling San Jose SaberCats at home in which they gave up 36 points, and a week 11 blowout loss to Arizona, 43-7. In those two games, they gave up an average of 384 yards through the air, with 6 passing TDs against. The vaunted rushing defense wasn’t much better. Austin surrendered 272 yards on the ground at an average of 5.1 yards per carry. Though the offense was alright, it didn’t top 80 yards rushing in either game, with inconsistent play from Daytona. So while it would be unfair to not account for a slight letdown after such a fantastic start, Austin is looking very vulnerable right now and head into a week 12 matchup with Honolulu, followed by dates with NY and PHI. Austin must recapture it’s earlier magic, and it has to do it real soon.
NUMBER 4
PHILADELPHIA LIBERTY (7-4)
What can I say, I’m a Liberty boi myself. Of course I was going to be a bit bias. I will admit that number 4 on the power rankings may be a bit generous, but is it really? Is it really too generous to rank the best defensive team in the league at fourth? NO. I believe its not. And I will keep telling myself that.
You’d think that such a dominant unit that has easily surrendered the fewest points in the league would be maybe the team to beat in the league? This simply isn’t the case though. The Liberty have suffered through an extremely inconsistent season, made worse from its early success that saw it win 4 in a row to start the season. Turns out that was against 4 of the more less-than-competitive teams in the league. A mirage. In fact the more I write this, the more I believe I’ve stuck my head in the sand. Phili’s most marquee wins are two against Sarasota. That’s it. Zero wins against teams above .500. Ouch. Nevertheless, I believe 11 games is a decent enough sample size to legitimize the Liberty’s ranks as the best in points against, second best in yards against, and top-3 in pass and rush defense.
Ryan Negs is having a decent season, but it’s a step back from what he’s shown he’s capable of. He’s been average this year, though he’s protected the ball very well. The Liberty gameplan is to pound the rock. It sits fourth in the league in rushing yards and maintain a respectable 4.2 average. While these numbers seem solid, we have to remind ourselves that the competition hasn’t been top-tier. Ultimately what’s held this offense back is its inability to convert on third downs and move the chains, as well as failing to get in the end zone. Despite the lackluster team performances, the offense is quite capable. Jake Fencik is one of the league’s top receivers, Borgo San Lorenzo lead’s the ISFL in TE receptions, Lonnie Jackson is a top-10 running back plus is second in the league for RB receiving yards, and Ryan Negs can straight up cook.
Meanwhile, defensively the Liberty are fierce. Tied for second in forced fumbles, league leaders in sacks, second in interceptions, tied first in safeties. They do it all. Linebackers Goodman and Walls have combined for 25 sacks! Nose tackle Honky Tonk Haywood leads all defensive tackles in sacks, forced fumbles, and fumbles recovered. Goodman, Fieri, Roman, and Sonjack have all registered at least 2 INTs. And of course there is rookie impact, as Wilkins has amassed 6 sacks from his slot corner position.
But does it all translate?
In its most recent big test against Arizona, the answer was a resounding NO. Deadly Memes ripped off 167 yards on only 17 attempts in that game. Though the defense stabilized in weeks 10 and 11, giving up an average of 12 points and giving up less than 60 yards rushing in both.
Philadelphia’s rank here will be tested tonight as it matches up against Berlin. While not a “must-win,” Philadelphia desperately needs a statement game to rally behind, and still has work to do separating itself from Colorado and Sarasota.
NUMBER 3
ARIZONA OUTLAWS (7-4)
Don’t look now but here come the Outlaws, riding into town and looking to cause some problems. They’ve been vaulting up theoretical power rankings for a while now. After kicking its tires at 1-2, the Outlaws have won 6-8, including taking 3 out of 4 against a rough schedule in Colorado, Philadelphia, New York, and a recent drubbing of Austin. Although Arizona’s record of 7-4 doesn’t wow you, the power rankings favor teams playing their best football at time of publication. But I’d also be lying if I didn’t admit that Arizona’s past wasn’t factoring in a bit here as well. While quarterback Charlemagne Cortez has begun to look old this year, he’s thrown the second-fewest interceptions and allowed his offense to do what it does best – run the hell out of the ball. Lead by the beast that is Deadly Memes – flanked by eventual hall-of-famer Tatsu Nakamura – the Outlaws average a nutty 5.0 yards per carry. Amassing over 1,400 yards on just 286 attempts. Wiley vets Raimon and Darren Pama are the main targets thru the air – largely looking to move the sticks and to give Memes another few totes. While the offense is a bit one-dimensional, one thing that we know travels and can be done in weather is a good run game. The slow-tempo of this offense has helped to mitigate the exposure of a defense that may be just mediocre. Captain Tayshawn Crunk hasn’t quite been himself this year, but linebackers Smart and Burfict have picked up the slack. Those two, combined with the opportune recovery of a wild 20 fumbles has kept the defense ranked in the top-3 in points and yards against. Really the question is – how much of that is due to the ball bouncing around all over the turf?
So you may ask – why with all these questions does Arizona jump to number 3? The answer, to circle back, is Charlamagne Cortez. I mentioned AZ’s last 4 game tough stretch in which they went 3-1. In those games, Cortez threw for an average of 283 yards per game, with a 7:1 TD:INT ratio. Again – this against great competition and including 2 of the best defenses in the league. Borderline MVP-type numbers. If Cortez really has turned a corner, this may be an unstoppable offense. If they continue to get timely plays from its defense, mixed with a mini resurgence of Crunk as well, this team has Ultimus aspirations. Especially helpful will be its 3 of 5 games against New Orleans, Orange County, and Yellowknife.
NUMBER 2
HONOLULU HAHALUA (9-2)
Yep I’ve embraced the heel status. Best record in the league. Coming off an Ultimus title. Fewest points and yards allowed in the conference. Ranked 2nd in the power rankings. Let’s start with the negatives to get them out of the way, because this team deserves so much props.
The offense is…good….ok. It’s got dimensions. More than I can say for some teams here. Cobra Kai is really the main ticket here though. 6th in the league in rushing yards with a great 4.6 yards per. He’s solid in the pass game and has broken one for a 74 yard TD catch. Joliet Christ Jr has proven more than capable, but has not jumped into the upper tier yet. It’s a possession offense that gives you nothing easy. It’s been solid enough to help the defending champs win 6 of its last 7. The issue here is that the strength of schedule wasn’t too impressive. The wins were over Chicago, San Jose, New Orleans, Baltimore, Sarasota, and OCO. The loss was against Berlin at home. As a result, the power rankings reflect that right here at #2 and #1.
Ok with that over with, let’s see what makes this team so special. Its two losses were against Arizona and Berlin, two fantastic teams. And it’s defense is so good that it’s right up there with Philadelphia despite playing and beating far tougher competition. Most tackles in the league, 2nd most sacks, 4th in forced fumbles. With 94 tackles and 14 sacks, it has arguably the biggest playmaker in the game in Big Slammu. Compatriots Frank, Fields, Beanman, and Montain all boast at least 5 sacks as well. Cornerback Davriel Lavigne is one of the best in the sport.
After becoming a Darkhorse champion last year, it wouldn’t of been too surprising to see Honolulu fade a bit from the spotlight. Including the playoffs, this team has won 17 of its last 20 games. (two of those to Arizona). Right now the Hahalua have positioned themselves well for a first round bye; however, the next two weeks are pivotal. On the road against Austin, followed by a date with dreaded Arizona. No more scheduling questions here. 1 win here will likely be enough to secure a bye for this team, but another loss to Arizona may be something to write its own post on.
NUMBER 1
BERLIN FIRE SALAMANDERS (8-3)
Man is it just me or is there no other team you prefer to see less on our schedule? I mean how can you not fear the team featuring a running back that broke the record for rushing yards in a game this year? Yeah in case you forgot, Goat Tank delivered a 20 carry, 312(!!!!!!!) yard performance against a good Yeti team back in week 3. He accounted for 347 yards on the day and 5 touchdowns. Insane. While his 16 yards per carry that day certainly helped his averages, the Tank leads the league in rushing with 1,100 yards on a 5.1 yard average. Not to be completely outshined, Dexter Zaylren has really impressed in just his fifth ISFL season. How about a 29:2 TD:INT ratio? Needless to say he’s running away with the league QBR, as he’s also matched his ratios with over 3,200 yards. Zaylren spread the ball, but his primary weapon is outspoken WR C’mon Skiuuup, who always puts up top-10 receiver numbers. These three have lead the way to a 414 yard average per game, split relatively well between air and ground. Not to be outdone, the defense ranks a respectable 5th in points against, although their splits are a bit worse.
Berlin is also playing really well right now. The Fire Salamanders have won 5 of its last 6, including three in a row. Those wins include a win over Phily and Honolulu. The loss, a 20-17 stunner at Austin, is still stinging today. Up 4 with 38 seconds left, the Fire Salamanders allowed a drive and then 42 yard game winning toss from Daytona to Cowabunga with no time left. While one would like to chalk that up to tough luck, it may be a glimpse into what could be a Berlin chink in the armor.
Berlin happens to be in the bottom-half of the league in many defense team statistical categories except interceptions. It begs the question – how are they 5th in the league in points against? Well a lot of that is thanks to its current hot streak. In it’s last 4 games, Berlin has given up an average of 17 points per game. Thanks in large part to 14 sacks in that time and 4 interceptions. This time period has seen the emergence of LB BamBam McMullet, who has somewhat entered himself into the defensive MVP conversation thanks to 4 forced fumbles and 11 sacks. The secondary also features Jeeroy Lenkins, the cornerback leader in tackles.
While the Fire Salamnaders have a tough matchup tonight against the Liberty, they still have the Hawks, Sailfish, and Butchers on the schedule, as well as another date with Goat Tank’s personal speedbump – the Yeti. I’d say the difference between Berlin at #1 and Austin at #5 is razor slim. But someone has to be the hero you all deserve and rank ‘em out.
And so here’s my expectations for the playoffs based on my rankings:
Quarterfinals:
SARASOTA (14) v. COLORADO (31)
ARIZONA (24) v. HONOLULU (22)
PHILADELPHIA (9) v. BERLIN (17)
NEW YORK (31) v. AUSTIN (37)
Semifinals:
COLORADO (24) v. ARIZONA (26)
AUSTIN (19) v. BERLIN (27)
Ultimus:
ARIZONA (14) v. BERLIN (18)
And there you have it, apparently I’m all about the Berlin Fire Salamanders! And to a lesser extent, the Arizona Outlaws. But then again, there are a few games to be played in a few hours, and they may completely destroy the nearly 4,000 words worth of media that I’ve typed here. Or maybe…just maybe…I’ve foreshadowed what’s to come tonight. Either way, I think it’s safe to say my fingers are about to fall off and I can’t think of any other ways to dance around fluffing up my media article for a bit more double payout dollars. So thank you for reading! Good luck in the last stretch of the season! And hopefully I’m not too far off on my ranking.
Go Philly!
POWER RANKINGS
NUMBER 8
SARASOTA SAILFISH (5-6)
Sarasota, while sitting at a respectable 5-6, is 2 games behind third place in the NFSC. While the season has been a dogfight, the Sailfish have 3 of its 5 remaining games against teams with 5 or less wins. Although week 12 will be a tough ask as they travel to Colorado to face the 7-4 Yeti, if they can manage to find a way to win then we may see the ‘fish swim up the river.
Sarasota has preserved after starting the season 0-3, and though they were barely able to stave off a 3-game losing streak with a 7-point win against the floundering Baltimore Hawks, they’ll take what they can get. The main culprit of this up-and-down season has been the lack of playmaking from its offense. While QB Mike Boss Jr has stayed clear of turnovers and posted a solid if not spectacular 20:7 TD:INT ratio, his completion percentage and yards represent a lack of efficiency and big play threat. WR and Captain Jackson Kingston has been solid, posting top-5 receiving numbers, but outside of him, Sarasota is lacking explosiveness. Possession receivers Saleem Spence and Mario Messi have been solid, but the point remains. The run game has been below-par, averaging 3.9 yards per carry, tied for 3rd worst in the league. This despite an offensive line that has outperformed expectations.
Ultimately it’s been the aging but capable Sailfish defense that has buoyed this team. Thanks to timely sacks, forced fumbles, and interceptions, Sarasota has cobbled together something resembling its vaunted defenses of old. Kackpoo, and Lover have done it all, with Jackson and Goku providing edge threats. And then there’s the ageless one, 11-year veteran Cuco Clemente still making plays from his free safety position, including 3 interceptions and a TD. With the 4th-ranked defense in the league for points-against, this team still can lean on defensive playmakers in big games, and for that alone still remains a threat should they gobble up the last playoff spot.
NUMBER 7
COLORADO YETI (7-4)
Well even I have to admit I feel a bit like a fool here. Ranking a 7-4 team that is on a 3-game win streak and is one game out of first place as the 7th team on the power rankings. But here’s the problem. Colorado has only 2 wins against teams at or above .500 on the season, both of which were at home. While not necessarily the Yeti’s fault as the NSFC has only 2 other teams above .500, it tough to get a true feel for just how good this team is. Ultimately, what is clear about the Colorado Yeti, is they will go as far as superstar and MVP candidate Mattathias Caliban will take them. At nearly 4,000 yards and 32 touchdowns, he is the clear cut most dangerous man under center. Caliban utilizes his receiving core to the max, as he’s got two receivers in Delacour and Maxwell vying for top receiver in the league, with his 3rd receiver Asui sitting at second in the league with 11 receiving touchdowns. In total , the Yeti boast 4 receivers with at least 5 touchdowns!
Unfortunately for Caliban and his merry band of pass-catchers, this is a one-dimensional team. The Yeti are the only ISFL team without a running back with at least 100 carries. Moreover, they sit near last in the league in yards against and are middling in points against. While its easy to rail against the rest of the team and surmise that Caliban is being held back, the defense really is an enigma – one that could go in either direction within the next few weeks. As earlier stated, they give up tons of yards, and yet the Yeti have forced the most fumbles in the league at 18, and have the third-most sacks in the league. Is this the sign of a defense that’s been on the end of a lot of tough-luck drives and is ready to become an impact unit, or have they managed to hide some of their wins behind costly fumbles and inopportune sacks allowed from their opponents? There are arguments for both sides, but its linebacking core is undoubtedly one of the top-3 in the league today. If Melvin Murder-Moose and Rusty Rucker can continue to impose their wills on opposing offenses, there’s no doubt Caliban will make them pay on the other end. So the question for the Yeti is two-part: Not only can they prove they’re more than just a spray-and-pray offensive team, but can they win against good teams. Week 12 against Sarasota will be a good test-case for Colorado and will test the power rankings right away!
NUMBER 6
NEW YORK SILVERBACKS (6-5)
HOT TAKE ALERT! A 6-win team sitting prettier than a 7-win team. This team has showed an ability to do a lot of things. Put up big points, play lock-down defense, beat the best. But what they haven’t done? Win on the road. And that worry may be something that costs them come playoff time since they’re currently sitting at 4th in the ASFC. Despite the less-than-ideal road record at 2-4, it is worth noting that its road schedule has been nothing short of brutal. It’s 4 losses on the road are to league best Honolulu, and three 7+ win teams in Austin, Arizona, and Colorado. What’s more, its last two road defeats were by a combined 2points. NY also boasts a road win over Berlin. So really it’s not as bad as it looks. It’s final two road games are against league-worst Orange County and 5-win San Jose. Now New York doesn’t really blow doors off when you look t the stat sheet, somehow they’re still sitting at 2nd in the league in points for, and first for yards. This all thanks to MVP candidate, Sam Howitzer. He’s only thrown 21 touchdowns, but he’s first with an incredible 69% completion percentage…nice! He’s also 3rd in yards, proving that his efficiency hasn’t stopped him from moving the ball at will. His favorite target? Tugg Speedman. The 7-year vet has come into his own, now leading the league in receptions and yards. Conversely, the Silverbacks have also defended the pass well. The issue for this team is a lack of a run game and an inability to stop the run. Its defense is sitting at 14th in the league in rush defense. Perhaps the defense is a bit of a mirage, as it has benefitted from recovering 17 fumbles on the year! The Silverbacks should be able to bring its win streak to 3 after a week 12 showdown with the 3-game-losing-streak Orange County Otters. Assuming they’re able to get right, they’ll be hosting the Austin Copperheads in what could be a game with large implications. Although Austin is a terrific team, they’ve lost 2-straight and host league-best Honolulu in week 12.
NUMBER 5
AUSTIN COPPERHEADS (8-3)
Tied for the second-best record in the league. 1 win out of first. Fifth on the playoff power-rankings list. Sound about right? Yes this is probably a terrible injustice, but why not take a few risks with your rankings? Not like anyone is going to read this anyways.
Austin came out sa-wiiing-ing this year. A home opener W, followed by a tough loss on the road to a terrific Honolulu team, culminated in a 7 game win streak that took them into week 10 sitting at 8-1. What a start to the season! The 8 wins included 4 40+ point performances. Daytona and the gang were unstoppable. That is, until they were.
Regardless of its ranking here, which is subjective, the stats are not. Austin ranks first in the league in points-for, first in rush defense, and then top-half of the league in most other statistical indicators. A team with clear strengths and very very few weaknesses. While the face of the team may be Jackie Daytona, with his dashing good looks and 26 TD’s (3rd in the league), the offensive engine has clearly been Zoe Watts. The 9-year vet out of Stanford is perhaps overlooked thanks to the performances of Goat Tank and Deadly Memes, but Watts has posted the 4th most rushing yards in the league along with an impressive 4.8 average. While no receivers have over 800 yards for Austin, Cowabunga (league leader in receiving TDs at 12) and The Vampire have combined for 18! TD catches. The highest total for a duo in the league. This formula of a ground and pound running game mixed with a dash of bigtime red-zone receiving threats keeps this team balanced and disciplined.
Again, another offensive powerhouse with an unknown commodity on defense. As a team, the numbers are impressive as I mentioned. But is this the product of a frontrunning team? Probably – to a degree. Austin puts up over 30 points per game. This has lead to other teams trying to keep or catch up. The result is a team that gives up only 77 yards on the ground and has 9 INT’s. Teams must throw! Austin has the fewest tackles and TFLs in the league, and are in the bottom handful in forced fumbles, and sacks. The secondary is tried and true, standing up to opposition despite little help from a pass rush. LB Tyler Mountain does Yeoman’s work, accounting for the vast majority of Copperhead tackles and sacks. This despite numerous double teams.
The issue here is, what is helping Arizona is what’s hurting Austin. Recency bias. Austin has lost its last two games, one to the middling San Jose SaberCats at home in which they gave up 36 points, and a week 11 blowout loss to Arizona, 43-7. In those two games, they gave up an average of 384 yards through the air, with 6 passing TDs against. The vaunted rushing defense wasn’t much better. Austin surrendered 272 yards on the ground at an average of 5.1 yards per carry. Though the offense was alright, it didn’t top 80 yards rushing in either game, with inconsistent play from Daytona. So while it would be unfair to not account for a slight letdown after such a fantastic start, Austin is looking very vulnerable right now and head into a week 12 matchup with Honolulu, followed by dates with NY and PHI. Austin must recapture it’s earlier magic, and it has to do it real soon.
NUMBER 4
PHILADELPHIA LIBERTY (7-4)
What can I say, I’m a Liberty boi myself. Of course I was going to be a bit bias. I will admit that number 4 on the power rankings may be a bit generous, but is it really? Is it really too generous to rank the best defensive team in the league at fourth? NO. I believe its not. And I will keep telling myself that.
You’d think that such a dominant unit that has easily surrendered the fewest points in the league would be maybe the team to beat in the league? This simply isn’t the case though. The Liberty have suffered through an extremely inconsistent season, made worse from its early success that saw it win 4 in a row to start the season. Turns out that was against 4 of the more less-than-competitive teams in the league. A mirage. In fact the more I write this, the more I believe I’ve stuck my head in the sand. Phili’s most marquee wins are two against Sarasota. That’s it. Zero wins against teams above .500. Ouch. Nevertheless, I believe 11 games is a decent enough sample size to legitimize the Liberty’s ranks as the best in points against, second best in yards against, and top-3 in pass and rush defense.
Ryan Negs is having a decent season, but it’s a step back from what he’s shown he’s capable of. He’s been average this year, though he’s protected the ball very well. The Liberty gameplan is to pound the rock. It sits fourth in the league in rushing yards and maintain a respectable 4.2 average. While these numbers seem solid, we have to remind ourselves that the competition hasn’t been top-tier. Ultimately what’s held this offense back is its inability to convert on third downs and move the chains, as well as failing to get in the end zone. Despite the lackluster team performances, the offense is quite capable. Jake Fencik is one of the league’s top receivers, Borgo San Lorenzo lead’s the ISFL in TE receptions, Lonnie Jackson is a top-10 running back plus is second in the league for RB receiving yards, and Ryan Negs can straight up cook.
Meanwhile, defensively the Liberty are fierce. Tied for second in forced fumbles, league leaders in sacks, second in interceptions, tied first in safeties. They do it all. Linebackers Goodman and Walls have combined for 25 sacks! Nose tackle Honky Tonk Haywood leads all defensive tackles in sacks, forced fumbles, and fumbles recovered. Goodman, Fieri, Roman, and Sonjack have all registered at least 2 INTs. And of course there is rookie impact, as Wilkins has amassed 6 sacks from his slot corner position.
But does it all translate?
In its most recent big test against Arizona, the answer was a resounding NO. Deadly Memes ripped off 167 yards on only 17 attempts in that game. Though the defense stabilized in weeks 10 and 11, giving up an average of 12 points and giving up less than 60 yards rushing in both.
Philadelphia’s rank here will be tested tonight as it matches up against Berlin. While not a “must-win,” Philadelphia desperately needs a statement game to rally behind, and still has work to do separating itself from Colorado and Sarasota.
NUMBER 3
ARIZONA OUTLAWS (7-4)
Don’t look now but here come the Outlaws, riding into town and looking to cause some problems. They’ve been vaulting up theoretical power rankings for a while now. After kicking its tires at 1-2, the Outlaws have won 6-8, including taking 3 out of 4 against a rough schedule in Colorado, Philadelphia, New York, and a recent drubbing of Austin. Although Arizona’s record of 7-4 doesn’t wow you, the power rankings favor teams playing their best football at time of publication. But I’d also be lying if I didn’t admit that Arizona’s past wasn’t factoring in a bit here as well. While quarterback Charlemagne Cortez has begun to look old this year, he’s thrown the second-fewest interceptions and allowed his offense to do what it does best – run the hell out of the ball. Lead by the beast that is Deadly Memes – flanked by eventual hall-of-famer Tatsu Nakamura – the Outlaws average a nutty 5.0 yards per carry. Amassing over 1,400 yards on just 286 attempts. Wiley vets Raimon and Darren Pama are the main targets thru the air – largely looking to move the sticks and to give Memes another few totes. While the offense is a bit one-dimensional, one thing that we know travels and can be done in weather is a good run game. The slow-tempo of this offense has helped to mitigate the exposure of a defense that may be just mediocre. Captain Tayshawn Crunk hasn’t quite been himself this year, but linebackers Smart and Burfict have picked up the slack. Those two, combined with the opportune recovery of a wild 20 fumbles has kept the defense ranked in the top-3 in points and yards against. Really the question is – how much of that is due to the ball bouncing around all over the turf?
So you may ask – why with all these questions does Arizona jump to number 3? The answer, to circle back, is Charlamagne Cortez. I mentioned AZ’s last 4 game tough stretch in which they went 3-1. In those games, Cortez threw for an average of 283 yards per game, with a 7:1 TD:INT ratio. Again – this against great competition and including 2 of the best defenses in the league. Borderline MVP-type numbers. If Cortez really has turned a corner, this may be an unstoppable offense. If they continue to get timely plays from its defense, mixed with a mini resurgence of Crunk as well, this team has Ultimus aspirations. Especially helpful will be its 3 of 5 games against New Orleans, Orange County, and Yellowknife.
NUMBER 2
HONOLULU HAHALUA (9-2)
Yep I’ve embraced the heel status. Best record in the league. Coming off an Ultimus title. Fewest points and yards allowed in the conference. Ranked 2nd in the power rankings. Let’s start with the negatives to get them out of the way, because this team deserves so much props.
The offense is…good….ok. It’s got dimensions. More than I can say for some teams here. Cobra Kai is really the main ticket here though. 6th in the league in rushing yards with a great 4.6 yards per. He’s solid in the pass game and has broken one for a 74 yard TD catch. Joliet Christ Jr has proven more than capable, but has not jumped into the upper tier yet. It’s a possession offense that gives you nothing easy. It’s been solid enough to help the defending champs win 6 of its last 7. The issue here is that the strength of schedule wasn’t too impressive. The wins were over Chicago, San Jose, New Orleans, Baltimore, Sarasota, and OCO. The loss was against Berlin at home. As a result, the power rankings reflect that right here at #2 and #1.
Ok with that over with, let’s see what makes this team so special. Its two losses were against Arizona and Berlin, two fantastic teams. And it’s defense is so good that it’s right up there with Philadelphia despite playing and beating far tougher competition. Most tackles in the league, 2nd most sacks, 4th in forced fumbles. With 94 tackles and 14 sacks, it has arguably the biggest playmaker in the game in Big Slammu. Compatriots Frank, Fields, Beanman, and Montain all boast at least 5 sacks as well. Cornerback Davriel Lavigne is one of the best in the sport.
After becoming a Darkhorse champion last year, it wouldn’t of been too surprising to see Honolulu fade a bit from the spotlight. Including the playoffs, this team has won 17 of its last 20 games. (two of those to Arizona). Right now the Hahalua have positioned themselves well for a first round bye; however, the next two weeks are pivotal. On the road against Austin, followed by a date with dreaded Arizona. No more scheduling questions here. 1 win here will likely be enough to secure a bye for this team, but another loss to Arizona may be something to write its own post on.
NUMBER 1
BERLIN FIRE SALAMANDERS (8-3)
Man is it just me or is there no other team you prefer to see less on our schedule? I mean how can you not fear the team featuring a running back that broke the record for rushing yards in a game this year? Yeah in case you forgot, Goat Tank delivered a 20 carry, 312(!!!!!!!) yard performance against a good Yeti team back in week 3. He accounted for 347 yards on the day and 5 touchdowns. Insane. While his 16 yards per carry that day certainly helped his averages, the Tank leads the league in rushing with 1,100 yards on a 5.1 yard average. Not to be completely outshined, Dexter Zaylren has really impressed in just his fifth ISFL season. How about a 29:2 TD:INT ratio? Needless to say he’s running away with the league QBR, as he’s also matched his ratios with over 3,200 yards. Zaylren spread the ball, but his primary weapon is outspoken WR C’mon Skiuuup, who always puts up top-10 receiver numbers. These three have lead the way to a 414 yard average per game, split relatively well between air and ground. Not to be outdone, the defense ranks a respectable 5th in points against, although their splits are a bit worse.
Berlin is also playing really well right now. The Fire Salamanders have won 5 of its last 6, including three in a row. Those wins include a win over Phily and Honolulu. The loss, a 20-17 stunner at Austin, is still stinging today. Up 4 with 38 seconds left, the Fire Salamanders allowed a drive and then 42 yard game winning toss from Daytona to Cowabunga with no time left. While one would like to chalk that up to tough luck, it may be a glimpse into what could be a Berlin chink in the armor.
Berlin happens to be in the bottom-half of the league in many defense team statistical categories except interceptions. It begs the question – how are they 5th in the league in points against? Well a lot of that is thanks to its current hot streak. In it’s last 4 games, Berlin has given up an average of 17 points per game. Thanks in large part to 14 sacks in that time and 4 interceptions. This time period has seen the emergence of LB BamBam McMullet, who has somewhat entered himself into the defensive MVP conversation thanks to 4 forced fumbles and 11 sacks. The secondary also features Jeeroy Lenkins, the cornerback leader in tackles.
While the Fire Salamnaders have a tough matchup tonight against the Liberty, they still have the Hawks, Sailfish, and Butchers on the schedule, as well as another date with Goat Tank’s personal speedbump – the Yeti. I’d say the difference between Berlin at #1 and Austin at #5 is razor slim. But someone has to be the hero you all deserve and rank ‘em out.
And so here’s my expectations for the playoffs based on my rankings:
Quarterfinals:
SARASOTA (14) v. COLORADO (31)
ARIZONA (24) v. HONOLULU (22)
PHILADELPHIA (9) v. BERLIN (17)
NEW YORK (31) v. AUSTIN (37)
Semifinals:
COLORADO (24) v. ARIZONA (26)
AUSTIN (19) v. BERLIN (27)
Ultimus:
ARIZONA (14) v. BERLIN (18)
And there you have it, apparently I’m all about the Berlin Fire Salamanders! And to a lesser extent, the Arizona Outlaws. But then again, there are a few games to be played in a few hours, and they may completely destroy the nearly 4,000 words worth of media that I’ve typed here. Or maybe…just maybe…I’ve foreshadowed what’s to come tonight. Either way, I think it’s safe to say my fingers are about to fall off and I can’t think of any other ways to dance around fluffing up my media article for a bit more double payout dollars. So thank you for reading! Good luck in the last stretch of the season! And hopefully I’m not too far off on my ranking.
Go Philly!
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