(S20) - Ultimus Week

[siddhus]

3) Revenge
Written: Write 200 words about a team you’d like to get revenge on next season and why. Did they knock you out of the playoffs? Blow you out?
Graphic: Create a graphic on why the stats back up that you’ll beat them next time.

I mean this one has to be obvious. We got blown out by the Grey Ducks in the Ultimini final. I think we were not even able to score one touchdown in the game. We were obviously the better team, in all regular season, and in the end, we just choked. I blame it completely on myself as a team captain. Their win was completely undeserved, and next season we will be coming to beat them. If I stay down next season, then I will be beating them up next season. If I get called up to the big leagues, then I will be cheering from the sideline to beat them up. That game was also special cause it was between me and Zach Vega who are both the top DSFL MVP Candidates this season. I think I can call me and Zach Vega officially rivals now. I respect him for leading Ducks to the last two ultimini wins. I mean, I know that I am going to be winning. So until next season, Minnesota is watching. ur back. Cause you never want to make a Buccaneer mad. This offseason will be watching lots of films and going to the weight room so that way the whole team is prepared for next season.

6) Expansion
Written: There have been a lot of new players entering the league recently. If you were in charge of a new expansion team for the NSFL or DSFL, how would you go about it?
Graphics: Create a design for your new team.

Well, as many people know I was one of the members that really wanted to be an expansion GM. Obviously things did not work out and I was not chosen but I am over it now. Just looking for the next opportunity to be general manager. Also a side note: If I was chosen, then I would probably be the youngest ever General Manager in the league, so that is pretty cool to be honest. Well, first off I would scout every draft prospect, no I do not care that there are 250 prospects in this draft, I will get questions to each and every one of them. I would write some scouting notes, but not leak them this time. I would be one step in front of the game constantly, answering questions and getting in good relations with all the rookies in the draft class. By doing this, I get friends, something a socially-depressed 14 year old like me needs, and also it is always good to have players that respect you because they are more likely to stay active and listen to you when you ask them to be active. Also me making a quarterback this draft class would be smart, no matter if i become DSFL or NSFL Expansion GM cause I know I can rely on myself to update in the arguably most important draft position. Also for logo stuff, I would probably ask around, as much as I want to ask Noka, I can't cause have no money to pay him for creating a logo. So instead, I would see if anyone would do for free. I also do not plan on picking a coGM and instead will have CoGM signups so that way I can see who is actually interested in getting me. For anyone reading this, I will become NSFL Expansion GM when they do it, so watch out, im going to the top.

10) 8) Scouting Report
Written: Write a scouting report for one of the incoming draftees in either the NSFL or DSFL.
Graphics: Create a graphic showing their stats or attributes.

Jim Waters | Quarterback | San Jose State | San Jose, California | Mobile QB
The eighteen-year-old quarterback coming from San Jose State University surprised some people last night by declaring late for the upcoming National Simulation Football League Draft. Even with thirteenth quarterbacks already in this draft, Jim is sure that he is able to be drafted in the top three rounds. There are four top quarterbacks in this upcoming draft, but he shows commitment to his game which should bring him over the others.

Pros
+ Speed - Jim is one of the fastest quarterbacks in this upcoming draft class. He competed in track in high school, so is very well-equiped with the tools, to succeed. He also took lessons from recently-retired running back Siddhu Sarvepally, so knowing that he should be able to use his skills next season. He runs a really fast 100 meter which will find out at the DSFL Combine taking place soon.
+ Intelligence - Jim has a quarterback's football IQ. He is able to find the holes, to either rush or too throws it to the open man. His intelligence is reported to be better than the other quarterbacks in his draft class, and arguably Intelligence is the most important attribute so he will look to be a high pick.

Cons
- Arm Strength - Water's Arm is below DSFL Standards, and in the latest Madden game, was given a 65. But for now, in the lower leagues, arm strength is not as important since it will lead to interceptions. And his Speed is good enough to make up for his lack of Arm Strength. But Arm will be something that he works on in the offseason.


13) Get Interviewed by a Fan
Written: Answer questions for an interview from a fan. You must answer at least four questions and at least three must relate to the league in some way. Link to the interviewer’s PT to receive credit. NOTE: THEY MUST POST THE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS FOR YOU TO GET CREDIT.

Getting Interviewed from a fan

[toivo]

SHL PT

Task 5) Armchair GM
We’re going to give Stan Francisco the tools he needs. We’re drafting running backs, signing receivers, going to get some hog mollies for the o-line. The Second Line will give Stan Francisco the tools to set him up for the best season an NSFL quarterback has ever had. Francisco is going to smash single-game records, single-season records, career records; with the moves we’ll pull in this off-season. I won’t name names to avoid tampering, but I have my targets I’d go after if I was the GM. I’d add speed and good hands. They say if a defender had good hands he’d be an offensive player. We’ll focus on offense and controlling the ball so much that we won’t have to boost our defense. The current defense group is top-tier and ready to carry us to the promised land. Stan Francisco is a great quarterback, but even great quarterbacks need a supporting cast. He’s going to get that this off-season, owner of the Second Line, put me in Mr. Boss man. I’m ready to go to the draft and wheel and deal. Trade picks in the future for top players now. We’re getting that best offense, or I’ll be damned. And we’re going to keep literally everyone, no one is allowed to leave.

Task 8) Scouting Report
Hailing from the University of Cape Town, the 6’4” and 247 lbs linebacker, Kal Solarin! Solarin is best described as a Speed Rusher, think like Von Miller or Vic Beasley. This player has a good reputation among scouts who note his dedication in other ventures. The linebacker is quick, his speed being his biggest strength at this point in development. The South African is also described as a strong and agile tackler. His intelligence isn’t anything to write home about yet, but expect that to improve as he progresses to the play in North America. Solarin has a good reputation that will likely boost his stock in the upcoming draft. The young draftee likes to wear #88 on his jersey and is left handed. His endurance is up there in this draft class. Expect him to put in several quarters in a game. He’s been training hard and banking that experience. He’ll offload it before the season starts and be much improved. We’re looking at possibly the best player to emerge out of this draft. In a deep draft, scouts note that Kal Solarin has some of the most hype surrounding him. Once he comes over, he’ll have a lot to prove, but scouting reports describe him as motivated and ready to go.

Task 10) Reform
It’s a darn shame that it’s tough to get by week to week as a professional football player. I don’t seek out all the means to earn some money, but I’m going to complain anyways. When you’re a multi-sport athlete and play in several leagues, there’s not enough time to spread across every league and take up jobs or do the odd media piece. Therefore, you’re dependent on your contract. My contract isn’t all that great, $2 million a season, and that’s my bad for not being a better player that can demand more. I tried going to free agency to start a bargaining war, but my services weren’t desired by any other teams, it was a lonely week when no teams called. Something about either raising the cap or lowering the prices for training and equipment, or offering paid point tasks like the pro baseball experience does would be beneficial. It’s time that the wealth doesn’t sit at the top and trickles at an ever so slow trickle. We need to spread the NSFL bucks far and wide and make it easier for players to train and progress. As a growing league, being casual friendly is a must. You don’t have to make it GOMHL easy, but a little more relaxed would be for the best.

[muse316]

20. Ultimus Ad:

Open to a dark, empty stadium. One light in the home team’s tunnel turns on, silhouetting 12 men with white jerseys on. The camera zooms into the tunnel, but the only things truly recognizable are the 12 white jerseys, no name, no number, no logo. Slowly, the 12 men walk out of the tunnel into the field.

As the 12 men walk towards the 50-yard line, sounds start becoming noticeable. The audience begins to hear the steps of the men. Sounds of breathing become noticeable. Audience cheering begins to be heard, with cheering and mocking interspersed. As the sound becomes louder, the field begins to light up, and the white jerseys of the men begin to saturate with color, although you can’t quite make out the faces. The colors of the Baltimore Hawks flash across one player’s jersey; the Arizona Outlaws across another, the Orange County Otters, the San Jose Sabercats, The Colorado Yetis. All 8 teams across 12 jerseys. The sounds get louder, the flashing of the teams across the jerseys becomes faster, until the climax, when all 12 players get to the 50-yard line.

Suddenly, all colors and sounds stop. The light pans up to the faces of the 12 players, and you finally see that they are the s22 quarterback draft class. All of the lights on the stadium turn on as a voice over says
“Are you ready for next year?”


12. Interview a Star:

Hi Easton! I am a fan and wanted to interview you and your thoughts about the league.

1. Congratulations on your amazing year (10 rushes in a game?!). What did you focused on this year that really pushed you into excelling this season?

2. The league has gained a lot of new members this year. Do you think the league should expand to include more teams to include more players, or do you think that maintaining the current number of teams allows teams to be selective in choosing top quality players?

3. Outside of the Cooperheads, which team do you think has the hardest defense to beat?

4. Do you have any advice for the QB's in the incoming draft class of S22? Anything they should focus on in the league to improve?

Thank you for your time,
Luke Skywalker


Well Luke,

First off, happy to hear from you!

As for your questions:

1. There wasn't much for me to focus on this time around. I had been training a lot the last few years, and finally everyone on my team really caught up to me. I have some God-given talents that just can't be duplicated. But one thing i worked on a LOT more was my Endurance. Upping that really helped me in terms of rushing the ball to give our offense another dynamic garbage teams like New Orleans weren't ready for.

2. The league MUST expand for it to survive. The whole point of a giant draft class like S22 is going to be is for making the user base larger exponentially, and we've done that! We need at least two, maybe four new teams sooner than later!

3. That Yellowknife defense was really good last season, they're always a tough out. We definitely were the better team in the Ultimus, but we had a few things go our way as well. New Orleans, i give them some crap a lot, but they can just straight up PLAY as well sometimes. Those two for sure.

4. My advice for the incoming QB's? Switch positions. These QB jobs are hard to come by in the league, and you need to be a god damned superstar like Easton Cole to get one. If you stick at QB, don't expect to be in the big leagues right away. Focus on your arm and your intelligence, that's for sure.


8. Scouting report for Luke Skywalker:

Strengths:
High throwing accuracy
Good internal clock
Advanced field vision
Excellent decision-maker
Good height
Fiery leadership
Student of the game
Great preparation skills
Hard worker

Weaknesses:
Not as mobile
Could improve footwork
Could improve mechanics

Skywalker is a player whose name is well known amongst the NCAA, but we can always run through his background. Skywalker grew up in Philadelphia and dominated at Parkland High School before starting his college career at Lehigh University. During his freshman year, he served as backup to Tyler Monaco before he transferred to the University of Michigan. There, he served backup to Shea Waterson until he replaced and injured Waterson during the third quarter of the Ohio state game. He went 16-of-21 for 190 yards and two touchdowns while running for 15 yards.

In his junior year at Michigan, Skywalker completed 74 percent of his passes for 3970 yards, setting a school record, and throwing 38 touchdowns and 3 interceptions, leading the Wolverines to their first Rose Bowl game (and win) in 7 years. His final year, Skywalker led the pack with a completion percentage of 75 percent, throwing for 3860 yards and running for 100. He led the Wolverines to their first College Championship playoffs, where the Wolverines lost to the Crimson Tide in the championship game.

Skywalker is an excellent fit for the current NSFL and looks like he could become a quality starter early in his career. While he still needs to work on his footwork and speed, his ability to read the defense and react accordingly is highly praised by both his teammates and his coach, Jim Harbaugh. Skywalker is also steady in the pocket, a good thrower with excellent accuracy. He comes high recommended, and has the potential to be an elite quarterback capable of leading his team to the Ultimus Bowl.



6. New Team:

[Modern_Duke]

2) League Milestone
For the most thrilling playoff game of the past couple of seasons, I will have to go with the Season 16 Ultimus, between the Arizona Outlaws and the Philadelphia Liberty, which was actually also one of the first games I had ever seen as a new user to the site. This was a very unlikely match up for an Ultimus, with both teams finishing with 7-6 records and barely making the playoffs in the first place. Amazingly, three teams finished with 10 wins that season, but none of them reached the championship game.

As for the game itself, both teams reached the endzone in the first quarter, leaving the score tied at 7-7 after 15 minutes. Arizona then fired with two quick strikes to take a 21-7 lead. After trading field goals to close out the first half, the score was 24-13 at halftime. However, Philly began its tremendous comeback and finally took over the lead at 30-27 with just under 8 minutes left in the game. Outlaw veteran quarterback coolly lead the team back to retake the lead with 1:30 left on the clock. With the championship trophy on the line in a classic two-minute offense situation, the Liberty started their drive by interestingly running the ball. After another quick play to pick up 15 yards, the Liberty were at about midfield. Falconi found Vander Jones down the left sideline with room to run. However, Arizona's Lucas Knight was quick on his tale and made the game saving tackle at the 12 yard line as time expired to clinch the Ulitmus.

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6) Expansion
Funny that you ask this question, because it turns out I actually am in charge of an expansion team! So now I just have to figure out what the hell I'm doing and then I will have an answer for you. Just kidding. Obviously the first step was to figure out what our team would be called and where we would be located. Franchet and I wanted to do something kind of different, so we looked at a map of where all of the current NSFL and DSFL teams are located and saw unoccupied spaces in Florida and most of Canada. But we also had the thought of going even further out there, and quickly turned our focus to Europe. From there London seemed like an obvious choice, and the Royals name came naturally.

As for the actual work of putting a team together, we are obviously going through scouting prospects now, so I don't want to give away too much, but Franchet and I agree that the key to success is having players who are active and interested in getting better. And we know that the best way to keep players active is to create an environment that they want to be in. That is why our main focus is on people, not players.

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19) OL or K/P Appreciation
To celebrate an unsung hero, I want to explore the special teams play of Austin Copperheads kicker/punter Alfredo "Thighmaster" Crisco during this playoffs and see how much of an impact he had. Crisco had a solid regular season, missing only one extra point and three field goal, and finished with the most points scored in the league. Most notably, Crisco famously broke the league record for longest field goal in the Copperheads Week 6 victory over San Jose with an astonishing 65 yarder. Alfredo also performed well as a punter, leading the league by a decisive margin with an average of 50.0 yards per punt, and the longest punt of the season, a 78 yarder.

In the semifinal against New Orleans, Alfredo made his only field goal attempt, and made all three of his extra point attempts. He also averaged 49.9 on 8 punts, including one downed inside the opposing 20 yard line. In the Ultimus, Alfredo was perfect again, hitting all three of his field goal attempts and all four of his extra points, as Austin cruised to an easy victory. While the Copperhead's Ultimus victory did not directly rely on Crisco's performance, such success is a lot easier to manage if you are not worried about leaving points on the field.

---

16) Dynasty
The Colorado Yeti are now firmly in their window of becoming the next great dynasty. On the offensive side of the ball, quarterback Wolfie McDummy was coming off a breakout season in season 19, and did not disappoint in the follow up. Wolfie is still young and has several seasons of prime production left. Running back Ashley Owens continued to be a huge addition to the offense particularly in the passing game, where he proved himself once again to be one the best receiving threats out of the backfield in the league. Lazslo Fourty-Two and Jim McMahon proved to be a formidable duo in the receiving corps.

Things are possibly even more exciting on the defensive side of the ball. Mo Berry is possibly the most talented linebacker in the league and is a surefire bet to be named defensive player of the year for season 20. Meanwhile, defensive tackle Bubba Thumper may be Berry's biggest competition for the award. In the secondary, the Yeti will again feature on of the most talented defensive back corps in the league, with three top cornerbacks in Alex Hornbacher, Quentin Sinclair, and Louisiana Purchase, not to mention star safety Pete Parker entering his prime as well.

[QuirkyTurtle]

1. Playoff Review

The Ultimini battle was one that was highly anticipated as both Minnesota Grey Ducks and Myrtle Beach Buccaneers finished the regular season at 12-2. The 1st quarter had fans in the stands increasingly frustrated as it a was a punt fest with 0 points put on the board by either team. However, starting the 2nd quarter the Minnesota Grey Ducks went on a tear that begun with their defence as Bubba Twatford secured 12 tackles, 1TFL and a big-time sack for a 7-yard loss. On the back of this, Grey Duck running backs, Austin Brehio, Baby Yoda and Skuff just could not be stopped. They were able to run it up constantly while none for a super long play but consistently and effectively marching their offense down the field. In total the 3 RBs racked up 214 rushing yards and 3 Touchdowns. On the other side of the ball the Myrtle Beach Buccaneers just could get anything going. Their offense just couldn’t stay on the field long enough to give their defence a rest and it took a large toll. By the start of the 4th, Bucs fans had begun to leave the stadium which was a sad sight as Myrtle Beach have a lot to be proud of after an outstanding 12-2 season and making it to the Ultimini. Great things loom for these two franchises, and Grey Ducks celebrate winning back to back Ultiminis! (236 Words)


6. Expansion (GFX)


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#TURTLEGANG[/span]

8. Scouting report (GFX)



11. Playoff MVP

The Ultimus Playoff MVP isn’t too hard to see in my honest opinion. While he’s not immune to the odd pick here and there, they really don’t matter when you lead the team to a victory with 322 yards and 4 TDs in the biggest game of the league. Easton Cole is your Ultimus playoff MVP. He knew he had doubted entering playoffs, but on the inside... nobody could see the fire burning. He was so ready for this moment, and he knew it was going to take everything he had, and man did he deliver. Not only was he a sight to behold in the throwing game, but he rushed 10 times for an additional 71 yards on the ground. That’s what makes an offence great. When the QB has the vision and intelligence to know when to burst through a gap into the open and when to check it down and when to thread the needle deep. While Cole deserves all this credit, his teammate also deserves some praise too. Wide receiver Rod Tidwell lit up the field with an impressive 117 yards and 2 Touchdowns on 6 catches. What a fiery duo they are in this league. (200 words)

[UpperNet]

6) I am a Expansion GM for my new team! Firstly I get my branding together cause that's a important aspect of a team. Next I get my locker room together and ready with the important channels since there's no player in my team it will be good to invite some friends and prospects to get that Lockeroom vibe down and get the channels ready. Next is where the fun begins with all the scouting first I'll probably draft the best player available possibly In most of the rounds and possibly going QB down early to get that position locked up cause they most likely going to stay down for a couple of season so naturally that's a position you need to hit on as for the other positions it's a mystery. Possibly RB is staying down too but you never know just make sure you get some active dudes the first season to build up what you Locker room culture want to be because in my opinion that's one of the more important aspects of GMing a team. My third or fourth season I'll probably do more thinking for my scouting and drafting cause unlike my first where I'll be going alot of BPA I'll probably be filling some holes and it's good to prepare early on that.

16) After that perfect performance in the ultimus game the austin copperheads proved that will be the next dynasty taking away OCO Crown away get use to seeing The copperheads on top of the ASFL for decades both dominate on offense and defense. First we have Cole after watching his performance at the ultimus there's no doubt he is the top QB in this league. He had 322 yards in his ultimus game while also throwing 4 TDs and he will only get better this next few seasons. Next we have Tidwell with contant big games all season long and proving he is consistent when it comes to big games tidwell is 3rd in receiving yards in the league while also catching 13 TDs. Next we have our big yards man in Mendonca 1052 yards this season he looking like he will be the work horse back for austin for a long time. And while we on offense let's talk about the young receivers in Net and clay. Clay may not have alot of yards but he dominate in the red zone with 8 TDs. CBs fear him when we are in the red zone and net snatched 877 yards this season proving he can be a contant number two option. After looking at the Austin's offense we can be safe to say that AUS will be the beast for seasons to come

2). The most thrilling and exciting game of the playoffs is of course go to be the playoffs game. I bet nobody expected the copperheads to even get here. I've seen contant predictions putting us last and I am sure that the only people who put us swimming the ultimus is people in the Austin Lockeroom! But I get why people would do that. A new expansion team 5 seasons ago literally nobody was expecting us to get this far and beat wraiths who constantly gets to the ultimus. With a shocking surprise the Austim copperheads destroyed the wraiths! Everybody on the team went off. Cole threw for 322 yards and 4 TDs. Tidwell had 117 yards and 2 TDs. Mendonca exploded with 81 yards. The whole team is on point. On defense henson leaded with 14 tackles and of course okura made a clutch int like always. This team had a flawless performance making for a beautiful blow out. After this game austin shown how dominate the team can be and hopefully the Austin copperheads will have many Ultimus appearance in the future. We builder a house and the next step is to build a big shining city. Hiss on austin!

8) Miller the big man coming out of NOR is looking to be one of the top Defensive lineman prospects for this upcoming draft. This season Miller racked up 45 tackles, 9 TFL and 4 sacks! Let's dive into this scouting report and see what he is good at and what he struggles with in his game!

Strength: At 310lbs he sure knows how to use his size! Miller is very good and pushing the line and using his big body and brite strength to push thought the line!

Miller despite his height and size is pretty quick with his first step giving opposing Offensive lineman something to fear about! He may not be quick as other Defensive ends in this class but quick enough for his size to cause damage!

Miller excels at creating double team situations and despite that overpowering them with hai monster strength! This guy is probably one of the strongest prospects I see in a while. Looking at his strength is a site to see!

Miller knows how to us this hands nicely with his signature Bull push and when he succeeds at that there no stopping him for coming towards the QB!

Weakness:

Millers is not that quick outside of his first step and can easily get losses when running after a QB when free.

Doesn't have alot of techniques other then his bull rush makes him predictable and easy for opposing O linemen to know what he is thinking. Needs more moves but im sure he can learn new moves with a NSFL coach!

Relies to much on his pysique traits to win against O linemen with his strength and can get sloppy when he is against o linemen with similar strength.

[Ephenssta]

1. Playoff Reviews:

In what was slated to be a heavyweight matchup between the two dominant DSFL teams in the Ultimini game, the Grey Ducks proved to be too much for the Myrtle Beach Buccaneers to handle. The Grey Ducks were dominant on both sides of the ball, turning the game into a blowout in the second half and winning by an impressive margin 28-3. Neither offense had an impressive day through the air as Myrtle Beach racked up 113 passing yards with Ramos throwing 10/21. Vega and Jack combined for a slightly better 122 yards, but a worse completion percentage by going 13/29. The biggest difference here was that Ramos threw two interceptions. Brehio picked up 100 yards and a pair of Touchdowns, earning the title of Championship MVP. Sarvapally was putting up similar numbers by averaging nearly 5 yards per carry, but received fewer touches and couldn’t manage to sniff out the endzone. Myrtle Beach was hampered by penalties all game, giving up 15 for 156 yards. The Grey Ducks appeared far more disciplined, committing only five offenses for 35 yards. As a result, Myrtle Beach was held to 3/13 on 3rd downs. It’s hard to establish an offense when you’re constantly facing third and long. A holding penalty on the quarterback, though, seems to be a new low for the Beach Boys. Congrats to the Grey Ducks, DSFL champions.

7: Next Year

Philly missed out this year. Their season simply wasn’t great. Next year, though, I’ll be there with them. With a couple players being called up and the draft upcoming, Hallmonitor will finally look to clinch a spot in the playoffs, and the chances are good. With an upcoming star joining the ranks at linebacker and some draft magic in the works, it’s likely that the Liberty will be coming on strong this season. Their quarterback would be hard pressed to play much worse, although ending the year with 420 attempts is pretty nice… The 77.8 rating Phoenix put up is second to last among NSFL QBs and his yards were dead last. He also threw the fewest touchdowns. Fortunately, though, he threw relatively few interceptions, so there is some good news there. If Phoenix can improve on his numbers and the team can find a way to get some more points on the board, Philly’s defense should be able to hold their end down and the team might just be competitive. Maybe this is the year Hallmonitor finally shines on the D-line and leads his team on a playoff run. It’s got to happen eventually, it may as well happen this season. He can’t keep getting this unlucky…right?

10. Reform:

Were I managing the league, the first thing I would have done this offseason was remove a commissioner who covered up evidence during a tampering investigation. What’s done is done, though, so it’s time to look forward to the future. As we look towards a large influx of players due to the reddit draft class, I would begin aggressively expanding the teams responsible for grading our point tasks and trivia responses. These teams are already perceived as working a bit slowly and this is only likely to get worse as the league grows. Expansion could be done either by hiring more staffers or by expanding intern programs. I prefer the option of expanding intern programs, since that allows people to participate meaningfully but in more of a learner and supporting role instead of feeling that they have to take on a massive responsibility. I believe adding intern programs would open the door to more involvement and help get some people more familiar with the inner workings of the league, making them more suitable for management positions later down the road. Developing talent in this way is a good way to ensure you have good people in leadership positions down the road. I would also like to see championship games played at a neutral site.

17. Robbed:

Myrtle Beach was robbed in several ways this season. In the last game of the regular season, the Seawolves took the lead against the Grey Ducks late in the fourth quarter. The Grey ducks went three and out, giving the ball back to Norfolk with 5:20 left on the clock. A win for the Seawolves would clinch homefield advantage through the playoffs for Myrtle Beach. They went three and out after Sunrise dropped a pass on third down and punted. The following drive started disastrously for Minnesota, as they took a too many men penalty on first down and Vega was sacked for a loss of six on second, setting up a 3rd and 17. Which they converted. In the final 3 minutes of the game, the Seawolves took two too many men penalties, giving Minnesota shorter distances on their eventual game winning drive. With 37 seconds left in the game, the Seawolves choked the game away, giving Minnesota homefield advantage in the Ultimini.

The nightmare for the Buccs was just beginning, though. They would go on to take 156 penalty yards in the Ultimini game, including a holding call on their quarterback. It’s hard to feel bad about the season the Myrtle Beach Buccs had, but the ending was certainly disappointing.

[RamboHampster]

4) Rivalry

Atlas Quin might be the single worst person to ever associate themselves to the NSFL/DSFL. He's a descpicable narcissist who feeds on misery and preys on the inherent goodness in humans. In our high school matchup, he targeted our QB and destroyed his ACL on a late hit. As we carted him off the field I looked over as Atlas and his teammates cheered and their coach went over to pay him. If his terrible attitude and demeanor was not enough of a blemish on this league, don't look at his stats. He was a complete non-factor for Norfolk this past season having been unable to even record 5 tackles in a single game. Watching his coverage is like watching a two-legged puppy attempt to fetch an anvil. It's completely uncordinated, pathetic, and makes you wonder how a god could be so cruel as to allow it to exist. Atlas Quin is that for the DSFL and unfortunately soon the NSFL. The only thing enjoyable about his game is watching his opponents completely carve up and embarrass him on a weekly basis. If he didn't happen to play for the most obnoxious team in the DSFL one could safely assume he would be cast back to the island of dog-shit football players and out of our esteemed league.

WC 218

[FurFurFurson]

8) Scouting Report (Buck Thornton)

Buck is a wild card.

Strengths:

Winner. In his three years as a starter at Central Washington, the Wildcats went 33-8 including an undefeated DII national championship his senior year. Buck expects to win.

Natural leader. With three younger brothers, Buck has been a leader his entire life. He captained his college defense for two years. Under Buck’s leadership, CWU fielded their best defenses in history. He expects his teammates to give their all and makes it known that he will accept nothing less.

Work rate. Coaches have praised his work rate throughout his career. Buck is always one of the best conditioned players on the field. He never gives up on a play and has been known to wear down opponents late in games.

Good size. At 6’1” 224lbs, Thornton holds his own as a run-stopping safety. His weight matches up to the larger running backs while not being too tall to meet them low to the ground. While in pass coverage, Buck relies on his physicality but is not completely overmatched in the height department.

Weaknesses:

Inexperienced. Buck has only played football for six years and only three as a strong safety. While he has been an impact player, scouts are nervous about his ability to read the game at a high level.

Unproven against the highest competition. Buck attended a Division II school for college. Despite his dominant performance, scouts are very aware that Thornton’s competition was not at the level of other S22 prospects.

Short wingspan. Standing 6’1”, Buck only sports a 5’10” wingspan. Scouts are worried that Buck’s undersized wingspan will be an issue in pass coverage.

Long-term durability. Thornton enjoys hitting. He likes to hit often and hard. Some scouts are worried that his body might not hold up over several seasons in the NSFL.


Ceiling: Troy Polamalu

Impeccable motor and work rate. Hard hitter and tone setter. Instinctive, physical, explosive. Excellent in run support. Makes receivers hear footsteps.

Floor: Perennial practice squad player

What if DII to the DSFL is too big of a jump? Is six seasons of competitive football enough experience? Thornton may never see the field during an NSFL game.



9) Brotherly Love

This off season it has been a common sight for reporters and scouts to see Chester Sweets and Buck Thornton training together for the upcoming DSFL season. The pair of S22 NSFL DB prospects met at a high school all-star game and immediately formed a friendship.

"We just fed off each others' energy," said Thornton. "We both like hitting people. Sweets brings a physicality to the game that's contagious."

Some have commented on the unlikelihood of their friendship with almost polar opposite personalities and backgrounds. Sweets, coming out of SDSU, plays loud and proud at cornerback. Thornton though, normally a soft-spoken strong safety, had plenty of thoughts about Sweets.

“Yeah, he talks a lot,” said Buck, “but he backs it up on the field, so I don’t have a problem with it. Sweets is a really smart dude. People don’t realize that when you meet him on the street, but the guy baits QBs better than any other corner in our class.”

The two have bonded over their commitment to their families. Sweets told reporters, “We both got a lot of people back home depending on us. We have fun playing hard and bringing the pain to pretty-boy wide receivers, but, at the end of the day, this is a way for us to give our families a better life.”

Sweets and Thornton have not hid their desire to play together at the next level. “If you want quality, physical play, Chester’s your guy,” said Buck. “Put him next to me and watch what we can do.”



12) Interview a Star (Kyle Idlewyld, Copperheads DE)

FurFur: With all these incoming prospects, what would you tell them is the most important thing to make the jump from the DSFL to the NSFL?

Idlewyld: The jump from the DSFL to the NSFL was in my experience actually quite easy. I loved The Tijuana Luchadores locker room when I was there and I was unsure how I would feel about my new locker room in Austin. Fortunately for me the Copperheads locker room is full of great personalities that have experience in this league and are always willing to help. So I wouldn't be too worried, it's the same fun but with tougher competition.

FurFur: You’re fresh off a championship in your rookie season. What do the Copperheads need to do in order to ensure another championship run next season?

Idlewyld: Well the entire core of the squad will still be here next season and only three players are old enough to begin regressing in talent so I think a solid draft would not only cover our losses but improve the team greatly. I'm a little biased as a Defensive End but I think our main target should be Dline followed by linebacker. Strengthening the number one defense in the league is a surefire way to make it back to the Ultimus.

FurFur: As the first pick in the NSFL draft last season, did you feel any pressure to succeed? And how did you deal with that?

Idlewyld: I without a doubt felt the pressure but It was outweighed by the confidence that being first instills. I won awards in the DSFL and Adam and Joe were confident enough in me to say they had their minds made up even before the end of the season. So like I said earlier, I just had to continue doing what I was doing in the DSFL.

FurFur: What’s your guilty pleasure?

Idlewyld: haha I'm not sure I have a guilty pleasure, I'm a pretty straight forward person with everything I do. I guess the closest thing I have to a guilty pleasure is how often I listen to Billy Eilish.



13) Get Interviewed by a Fan (Jay_Doctor interviewing Buck Thornton)

Jay_Doctor: By now, most of us have seen your ability to blitz and light running backs up. Can we expect that right away in the DSFL, or do you think it will take some time to adjust?

Thornton: Obviously the level of play will be higher. The backs are bigger, stronger, faster, and so are the linemen. It’s going to take a lot of work in order to compete. This off season is not really an off season. There’s a lot of work to be done in order to get myself ready to be as effective in the DSFL as I was in college.


Jay_Doctor: Are there any players you try to model your game after?

Thornton: Growing up in Alaska, we didn’t watch a ton of football. But everyone knows Ray Lewis. We’d see him on SportsCenter and I loved the tenacity and energy he brought to the game. You could feel his presence as soon as he hit the field.

But when I started playing football I was wrestling at 182lbs, so I played safety instead of linebacker. By then we were living in Washington state and were watching the Legion of Boom every Sunday. I loved watching Kam Chancellor. You could see wide receivers get scared running across the middle through his zone. He loved to hit guys, and I do too, so I try to emulate him a lot.


Jay_Doctor: Are there any secondary players in your class that you would love to team up with?

Thornton: Cornerback Chester Sweets coming out of San Diego State. He and I met at a High School All Star game and have kept in touch since. He's super smart and is good at getting in receivers' heads. Likes to play physical too. Reminds me of Richard Sherman, one of my favorite cornerbacks.


Jay_Doctor: When you're not playing football, what do you like to do?

Thornton: Honestly, I’m in the gym a lot. I like to train non-football sports, especially martial arts.

If I’m not in the gym or on the field I’m probably at the shooting range with my brothers. We just spend a lot of time at mom’s house too. We do family dinners as often as we can.

[Jonny2x]

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11) I don’t know that there was a true playoff most valuable player in the sense that anyone dominated the entire playoffs. My nod for playoff most valuable player would have to go to Easton Cole of the Austin Copperheads. Despite two very ugly team wins in which he played barely above average himself, the team arrived in the Ultimus versus the Yellow Knife Wraiths. They then proceeded to completely dismantle the Wraiths without leaving the outcome in doubt for hardly one minute. They were most certainly led to this all important Ultimus victory with a smashing game from their leader Cole Easton. He finished the contest 21 of 31 for 322 yards and 4 touchdowns. He also ran the ball ten times for 71 yards. Cole started his career in the league pretty early and has played for the expansion Austin Copperheads his entire career meaning he took many lumps early on. He persevered and has come out on the other side of it now with an Ultimus victory under his belt. I wish him the best and he certainly deserves the nod of playoff most valuable player with his spectacular game play in the championship. It will be interesting to see if it was a Cinderella run or the success can be repeated next season.

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