07-08-2020, 05:57 PM
(This post was last modified: 07-10-2020, 01:17 PM by Fordhammer.)
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]X2 MEDIA BONUS, READY FOR GRADING[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]DSFL GAME OF THE WEEK
Week 4 Edition:
Minnesota Grey Ducks @ Myrtle Beach Buccaneers [/div]
Welcome to the fourth volume of my “Game of the Week” series, where we take a deeper look into one DSFL game each week. We just don’t analyze the box score, we evaluate lineups, formations, big drives, and big plays that lead to said big drives that ultimately proved to be the pivots, the inflection points, for one team to ascend to victorious highs and the other to sink to defeated woes. For those unfamiliar (most probably are) with how games are selected, here is the criteria:
1. Margin of Victory
2. Regulation versus Overtime
3. Total Points Scored
4. Lead Changes
5. Combined Win Percentage
6. Playoff Implications
7. Statistical Standouts
Let me first preface this piece by stating that I made a commitment to help my teammates out and I will not go back on my word but trying to do 14 of these is a tall task. I had one brief interruption and I doubt I will have time to catch up now. Instead I might switch to a cycle of pre-season review, mid-season review, and end of season review to better capture the flow of the season. Moreover, in an event where I have to step away for a few days or so, I will not have to worry about tight deadlines. I remember last month being strapped for money and needing help and now I’m returning the favor for the rookies that might be feeling the same way I did. The bottom line is, I need to get back adjusted to a routine and the extra time each week to put together 3 articles a week will be gone.
Otherwise, week 4 featured a great matchup between two teams that had became accustomed to seeing each other in the playoffs. Myrtle Beach and Minnesota feature two teams that manage to keep a handful of capped players on their roster, in addition to having some of the faster rosters in the league. When these two teams square off, the viewers are guaranteed to see an entertaining game. And I hope no one is superstitious because Myrtle Beach entered this game with a 66.66% win probability.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]
Myrtle Beach [/div]
Myrtle Beach enters this game after a hard-fought loss to Kansas City with a 2-1 record. As evidenced by last year, fast starts can be fool’s gold for the Buccaneers, and they hope this year provides a different story. The Buccaneers have been trying to find the optimal winning formula after losing so much defensive talent. They have switched to a 34 defense and have moved their safeties to the corner slots, including star standout – Dookmarriot. Mouseman can move back to a natural LB position, but the other young CB, Kennedy, has also moved into the LB role. Myrtle Beach hopes their speed can overcome defensive shortcomings up front and in the deep secondary by running blitz heavy packages on all short yardage situations.
Meanwhile, the offense has remained intact and consistent, with the RB tandem of Ayers and Jeffery leading the #1 rush offense. Myrtle Beach’s offense is loaded and versatile, as their RB’s will not only gash defenses in power sets, but half of their playbook is Spread formations where the two line up out wide as receivers. These two are not the only prolific runners as QB Cristiano Ramos also keeps the defenses on edge with his mobility on designed QB runs. After the defense settles all of that, they must still deal with the lethal threat on the edges in Leeroy Jenkins and Geraldo Despacito.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]
Minnesota [/div]
Minnesota, despite losing Tychon Hood and Jamar Lackson to the big leagues, still carries a potent offensive attack ---- led by the dual threat of Draymond Brooks and Kai Sakura whom are accompanied by the resurgence of veterans Sim Snowbow and Zed Keppler at QB and RB respectively. Minnesota does not have much depth behind any of their offensive players but they still manage the #2 rush offense with a normal tempo, RBBC, and a mix of power and vertical looks with varied run/pass ratios.
On defense, Minnesota suffered big losses to callups. Their barren roster returns one capped defensive player in stud CB Ray-Ray Jackson, playing the NCB slot this year. The rest of the defense is common with semi-active players, both old and new, but the users have at least put solid effort into their players. Newcomer Alejandro Chainbreaker, who should be named Gamebreaker with the countless big plays accredited to his name, infectious play has spread through Minnesota as the defense enters with 6 forced turnovers (4 INT / 2 FR). The Grey Ducks run the Base Nickel packages, but with Jackson on the inside and two Strong Safety bots occupying a CB and FS slot, the defense has been the worst at covering passes.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Tactical Breakdown of the Week[/div]
Minnesota is a rare DSFL team running a vertical offense package. Vertical offense, otherwise known as “Air Coryell” offense, puts a heavy emphasis on fast receivers (Minnesota has those), power running ability (Keppler), and a strong-armed QB. The Grey Ducks have 2/3 areas covered, but the third area is the most important to a successful vertical attack. There was a time when passing attacks were frowned upon and every offense looked like a typical DSFL offensive strategy where running came first, second, and third. Faster receivers, mobile tight ends, and running backs with catching ability allowed for the expansion of playbooks, coinciding with the development of Shotgun, Split Backs, and pre-snap motion in the late 60’s/early 70’s. Sid Gilliman had a vision to stretch defenses vertically to open up running lanes underneath which would then allow for long, deep throws over the top when the defense cheats in the box.
![[Image: image0.png]](https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/723275979736219698/728052908893143054/image0.png)
Meanwhile, a coach at San Diego State would soon transform this vision of a true pass first offense into a staple of modern NFL offenses. After 1976, the NFL instituted the “Mel Blount” rule which flagged contact on receivers past 5 yards, 2 seasons later, Donald “Don” Coryell would move back to San Diego to overhaul the Chargers and the NFL in general. With Dan Fouts under center, the Chargers would lead the league in passing offense for 6 straight seasons. Along with James Brooks and tiny Lionel James, carrying on the tradition set by Terry Metcalf in St. Louis, establishing the role of the all-purpose back, racking up all-purpose yards in bundles. The biggest change that lead to the Chargers leading in total offensive yards for 3 straight seasons came from tight end Kellen Winslow Sr. who re-defined the tight end position, often playing as nimble and quick as an outside receiver with such a massive frame.
![[Image: VO_1.PNG]](https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/719307383376969731/730542812940206141/VO_1.PNG)
The Vertical offense relied on pre-snap motion to get reads on the defense so the offense could maintain timing and rhythm while keeping the defense off balance and in a constant state of re-adjustment. Like the West Coast offense, the receivers ran various route trees and the QB would throw to a spot and not at the player. The strengths of the vertical offense come from fast receivers to keep the secondary backpedaling which would then open up lanes for running backs to gash through for big runs. The running backs must also be able to catch passes out of the backfield if the offense breaks down. The “Vertical” Tight End is a crucial threat that can always find a hole in the mid-range territory and provide a unique blend of size and speed to play on the outside and provide mismatches on slower LB’s or smaller DB’s. The extra attention at the line of scrimmage allows for WR’s to avoid double teams and shaded coverage on the outside and run their routes with precision so the QB can deliver to the spot and not need to make several reads. The QB has to have a big arm, like Fouts, Marino, Bledsoe, Gannon, et al, which is why I’m curious to see how this package works in the DSFL when the QB’s skills are limited and Snowbow in particular has more emphasis on mobility than arm power.
![[Image: image0.jpg]](https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/723275979736219698/728052995018981418/image0.jpg)
Joe Gibbs also used a bruiser version of the Vertical Offense, where he utilized two te’s as blockers and receivers to keep defenses on edge. His “Hogs” o-line could open up lanes against almost any front four and it allowed him to run more singleback sets with three WR’s (The “Posse”) so his backs could run for days. Gibbs backs were more known as “F-Backs”, not fullbacks, but backs that could run, block, split wide, or pass catch out the backfield. The weakness of the vertical offense came from relying on 5-7 step dropbacks and long developing routes, ergo a lethal pass rush could stop the QB and force him to move out the pocket and re-scan his reads and throw off his timing with his receivers. Likewise, smart, run-stopping DB’s could force a vertical attack into becoming one-dimensional and allow the defense to set up for throws in obvious passing situations.
![[Image: image0.jpg]](https://cdn.discordapp.com/attachments/723275979736219698/728052926672666694/image0.jpg)
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]First Quarter[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]QB Snowbow[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Heights DE[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]RB Keppler[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Out NT[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]TE End (Bot)[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Woof (GM) DE[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]FL Martins[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Zelos OLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]X Brooks[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Mouseman SLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Z Sakura[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Woods WLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]OL Jones[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Kennedy (CB) OLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]OL Thunder[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Bear (SS) CB1[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Dookmariot (SS) CB2[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]O’Donnell (GM) (CB) FS[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Mouse SS
[/div]
Minnesota opens with the ball and we notice that they are using semi-active backup rb Martins as the flanker. Minnesota’s offense is top heavy, and the lack of depth shows in their opening formation. However, they do boast two human o-line players and their active players are all certified playmakers. In fact, Brooks started the game with a 29- yard kick return, possible a positive sign for the Grey Ducks down south on the beach. The Buccaneers, now in a regular 34 defense, have their linebackers in their natural positions, but their lack of defensive depth shows as they have to use both of their CB’s out of position and hope that they can stop everything at the first level and not become susceptible to passing plays in short yardage situations.
On the second play, Minnesota shifts to the Spread and Sakura breaks an in route for 17 yards and on the next play, Minnesota shows their versatility by calling an FB Fly route that allows Brooks to break deep for a 24 yard reception. With Myrtle Beach reeling, the Grey Ducks call a QB run and catch the Buccaneers is a Cover 4 and Snowbow weaves his way through defenders for a 26-yard touchdown run to finish the drive in 4 plays and 1:49 while covering 67 yards. Snowbow starts off hot against the weak Buccaneers pass defense with 41 yards on 2/3 attempts and the 26-yard scamper. [7-0] MGD
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]QB Joestar[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Brooks DE[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]RB Jeffrey[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Ranger DT[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]TE1 Mo[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Exotic DT[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]TE2 Despacito (WR)[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Mamba DE[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]X Matthews[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Sackson SLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Z Bodenhammer[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Chainbreaker WLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]OL Krishna[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Jackson NCB[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Hillard CB1[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Valve (GM) (SS) CB2[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Tee (BOT) (SS) FS[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Stein SS[/div]
Myrtle Beach’s first drive sees them open in a Two TE set and we see Despacito being a team player as he lines up on the line of scrimmage as a second tight end. Joestar also is in as he is being groomed to be the aerial threat whereas Ramos will remain the runner who can occasionally toss the ball around. For Minnesota, their defense is very depleted, and the burden relies on Chainbreaker and Jackson to keep the Ducks’ defense from drowning. Since most teams do not put their best receiver in the slot, Jackson is being used in run support, but so far, the trade off has caused the Ducks to have the worst pass defense up to this juncture. Despite a 33-yard return by Jeffrey, the Grey Ducks stand tall and force a 3 and out and are rewarded again with a 31-yard punt. The two teams exchange 3 and outs as Minnesota falls short with three runs, no thanks to Mouseman and his two tackles, and Myrtle Beach attempts to burn Minnesota early with three Shotgun looks, but they all come up short.
On Minnesota’s next drive, we see them resort to their power run to set the drive right as Keppler gallops for 18 yards on the first two plays. Still in Pro-Set, Brooks works his man 1-on-1 and moves the chains with a 16-yard reception. After Zelos stops the next play, the Buccaneers dial up a Mike Down blitz, but Martins takes the counter right for ten yards to get to the 2-yard line. Martins then utilizes another counter play to get the 2-yard TD to wrap up the 6 play (5 run / 1 pass), 54-yard drive in 2:40. [14-0] MGD
Looking to answer, Bodenhammer sets up Myrtle Beach with a 32-yard return and a Minnesota penalty adds an extra 15 yards. On the 3rd play of the drive, Myrtle Beach, lined up in Shotgun, beat the safety blitz and dials Despacito’s number for 21-yards. On the next third down, Jeffrey rumbles for 8 yards out of I-Formation as the Myrtle Beach Bus has no intention of stopping until they reach the endzone. Two plays later, Brooks makes a key TFL but 2 straight Minnesota penalties gives Myrtle Beach first and goal. Myrtle Beach comes out in Shotgun with Ramos under center with one intention, and Ramos boots right and gets the 1-yard TD to end the 12 play (7 run / 2 pass), 3:22, 78-yard drive in which 26 came from penalties. [14-7] MBB
Minnesota drives down the field again, but Keppler missed the first 5 plays of the drive and their drive stalled with two incompletions intended for Sakura and to double-down, another futile (32 yard) punt ends the drive and the quarter.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Second Quarter[/div]
Minnesota’s defense came out ready to prove they would not be rolled over this game as Tee picks up a sack which is followed up by a false start. Ranger and Tee pile up 2 tackles apiece to force Myrtle Beach to a putrid 30-yard punt. On Minnesota’s first second quarter possession, they get to 3rd and 2 and Mouseman is beat on the edge for the first down. On the next third down, he comes back to stop Keppler short and force the punt. Jenkins has a critical penalty that stalls the Buccaneers next drive and Minnesota gets the ball back but two incompletions after their third first down forces them to punt.
Myrtle Beach gets the ball back with 5:05 in the second at their own 13-yard line. They initially move 46 yards with ease but then burn 2 minutes in their last 3 plays after having 2:57 on the clock with two timeouts. Despite being 3 for 4 for 25 yards and 3 first downs, they called 5 runs out of 8 plays. On the last play of the drive, Mo makes it to the 2-yard line but is stripped from behind after a 19-yard catch and Myrtle Beach is unable to get points on the board.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Third Quarter[/div]
On the first play of the second half, Myrtle Beach comes out in Shotgun to pass, but Brooks sets the tone with a 10-yard sack. Myrtle Beach comes right back in Spread and a TE Quick Out call allows Jenkins to break free for 15-yard catch on the edge. After a 9-yard run by Ayers, Exotic makes a huge tackle for no gain and an incompletion on 3rd down forces Myrtle Beach to punt. Minnesota, still looking for a boost from the rushing game, still have a potent passing attack to rely on as Brooks opens the drive with a 14-yard reception. On 3rd and 6, Hands pops up for a crucial 8-yard catch, but on the next third down, Kennedy stops Keppler one yard short as Minnesota searches for ways to spring Keppler for the big play.
On the ensuing Myrtle Beach drive, the crazy meter is turned up to eleven. On 3rd and 10, a max protect call allows Bodenhammer enough time to break for a 17-yard catch, after methodically driving down the field for 6 plays, Jenkins takes a post pattern for 17 yards to the Minnesota 8-yard line. At this point Ayers has 5 attempts for 31 yards, Joestar is 2/2 for 34 yards, but everyone knows Myrtle Beach’s redzone offense. Chainbreaker makes his 5th tackle of the drive after he sniffs out the all-too-familiar QB bootleg. On the next play, Ramos fumbles on the QB draw and Ranger recovers to end the 10 play (8 run / 2 pass), 72-yard drive that only took 3:40.
Minnesota was lucky to have a 3 and out on their next drive after two Zelos tackles and Kennedy forced a fumble that Minnesota was able to recover. After a towering 60-yard punt, Myrtle Beach looks to finally tie the game. A second down blitz again allows Myrtle Beach to find a receiver in the holes of the coverage, this time Despacito takes in the 19-yard catch. After a self-inflicted penalty, Myrtle Beach only runs for 7 yards on 4 straight plays, but on the 8th play, Ramos breaks for 18 yards and recovers his own fumble after Chainbreaker lays the steel on him. These plays of fortune or misfortune would characterize the game heading into the 4th quarter.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Fourth Quarter[/div]
Chainbreaker, determined to get his team the win, comes up with three consecutive tackles, but on the 10th play of the drive, Myrtle Beach flares their RB out the backfield and a prevent defense call allows Joestar to find Jenkins in single coverage again for the 6-yard TD to tie the game after a 11 play (7 run / 2 pass), 64 yard drive in 3:30. [14-14] MBB
Minnesota suffers a huge first down drop and Woods blows up two straight runs to get the ball back to Myrtle Beach and on the second play of their drive, Ramos scrambles for 11 yards, continuing his deadly duality under center. On 3rd and 8, in Shotgun, Ramos finds Despacito for 11 yards against a prevent look. A famous coach once said, “The only thing a prevent defense prevents is your team from winning.” On the 8th play, Chainbreaker again pops the ball loose on 3rd and 3 and Jackson recovers.
On the very next play, Sakura shakes and breaks loose for a 25-yard catch and run. Three plays later, Myrtle Beach’s penalty issues rear their head again as they provide Minnesota a free 15 yards on 3rd down. 4 plays later, on 3rd and 5, in I-Form, Snowbow connects on the FB Fly route. The back and forth continues as two plays later, Zelos comes up with the monstrous 11-yard sack to set up 3rd and 21 at Myrtle Beach’s 22-yard line. Minnesota manages to reach the 6-yard line for 4th and 5 but they miss the 23=yard field goal. Myrtle Beach slowly drives down the field, but on play 6 with 3rd and 8 at their own 18-yard line, Ramos connects with his main man, Jenkins, for the 25-yard catch and run. After a timeout and two offsetting penalties, Brooks stuffs Ayers two consecutive plays. Myrtle Beach still has a chance to get in field goal range but two drops by Mo forces them to go for it on 4th down. Minnesota gets the stop and another 15-yard Buccaneer penalty puts the ball at the Buccaneer 41-yard line. After lining up for the 53-yard field goal with 25 seconds left, Minnesota misses again, and the game goes to overtime.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Overtime[/div]
Minnesota, a victim of self-inflicted wounds, gets their drive kick-started by 31-yad Sakura return. On the first play of OT, The Buccaneers call a Man Spy while Minnesota is in Two TE and Snowbow’s target is double-covered and Mouse comes up with the incredible interception to put Myrtle Beach at the Minnesota 30-yard line. The Buccaneers again leak their back out on a pass route and Bodenhammer is able to haul in a 9-yard reception on the outside. Chainbreaker, in super-saiyan mode at this point, deflects the pass on the next play. Myrtle Beach resorts back to their reliable Shotgun formation and Mo is able to take his TE Deep Out route for 10 yards under the Cover 2 blanket. Mo, set to avenge his two big drops, come back on the next play and slips loose for the game-winning 6-yard touchdown.
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Ramos 12/19 160 yds 7 att, 30 yds, 1 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Brooks 4 rec, 65 yds, 3 KR, 62 yds[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Joestar 10/16, 89 yds, 2 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Chainbreaker 12 TCK, 2 TFL, 2 FF, PD[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Ayers 28 att, 123 yds[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Stein 11 TCK, FF[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Jenkins 6 rec, 80 yds, 1 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Brooks 4 TCK, 2 TFL, SCK[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Mo 5 rec, 44 yds, 1 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Simpson 4 TCK, 2 TFL, SCK[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Zelos 10 TCK, 1 TFL, 1 SCK[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Sakura 3 rec, 48 yds[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Mouse 2 TCK, 1 PD, 1 INT[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Team 4 FF, 2 FR[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Total YDS
MB 460 – MIN 314
Passes
MB 35 – MIN 24
Rushes
MB 50 – MIN 35[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Looking Ahead[/div]
Both teams struggled to get their rushing attack rolling. Neither team could average over 4 ypc, but both teams were successful in the air. Myrtle Beach averaged 5.5 yards in the air and Minnesota average 6.5 yards in the air. Both teams averaged over 7 yards per play on 3rd down pass plays. Myrtle Beach only averaged under 4 yards per play on 1st down and Minnesota averaged a whopping 8.2 yards on 11 first down passes while only 3.1 yards on first down runs.
Minnesota’s most success came from the I-Formation whereas Myrtle Beach had their most success in Shotgun. However, the Buccaneers largest negative plays also came out of Shotgun despite 4 of their 6 biggest plays being from Shotgun.
Next Game: MBB @ NOR POR @ MGD
Credit:
50% @The_Kidd / 15% @Thor for sim help / 35% @Z-Whiz for pics and format help
WC: 3643
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]DSFL GAME OF THE WEEK
Week 4 Edition:
Minnesota Grey Ducks @ Myrtle Beach Buccaneers [/div]
Welcome to the fourth volume of my “Game of the Week” series, where we take a deeper look into one DSFL game each week. We just don’t analyze the box score, we evaluate lineups, formations, big drives, and big plays that lead to said big drives that ultimately proved to be the pivots, the inflection points, for one team to ascend to victorious highs and the other to sink to defeated woes. For those unfamiliar (most probably are) with how games are selected, here is the criteria:
1. Margin of Victory
2. Regulation versus Overtime
3. Total Points Scored
4. Lead Changes
5. Combined Win Percentage
6. Playoff Implications
7. Statistical Standouts
Let me first preface this piece by stating that I made a commitment to help my teammates out and I will not go back on my word but trying to do 14 of these is a tall task. I had one brief interruption and I doubt I will have time to catch up now. Instead I might switch to a cycle of pre-season review, mid-season review, and end of season review to better capture the flow of the season. Moreover, in an event where I have to step away for a few days or so, I will not have to worry about tight deadlines. I remember last month being strapped for money and needing help and now I’m returning the favor for the rookies that might be feeling the same way I did. The bottom line is, I need to get back adjusted to a routine and the extra time each week to put together 3 articles a week will be gone.
Otherwise, week 4 featured a great matchup between two teams that had became accustomed to seeing each other in the playoffs. Myrtle Beach and Minnesota feature two teams that manage to keep a handful of capped players on their roster, in addition to having some of the faster rosters in the league. When these two teams square off, the viewers are guaranteed to see an entertaining game. And I hope no one is superstitious because Myrtle Beach entered this game with a 66.66% win probability.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]
Myrtle Beach [/div]Myrtle Beach enters this game after a hard-fought loss to Kansas City with a 2-1 record. As evidenced by last year, fast starts can be fool’s gold for the Buccaneers, and they hope this year provides a different story. The Buccaneers have been trying to find the optimal winning formula after losing so much defensive talent. They have switched to a 34 defense and have moved their safeties to the corner slots, including star standout – Dookmarriot. Mouseman can move back to a natural LB position, but the other young CB, Kennedy, has also moved into the LB role. Myrtle Beach hopes their speed can overcome defensive shortcomings up front and in the deep secondary by running blitz heavy packages on all short yardage situations.
Meanwhile, the offense has remained intact and consistent, with the RB tandem of Ayers and Jeffery leading the #1 rush offense. Myrtle Beach’s offense is loaded and versatile, as their RB’s will not only gash defenses in power sets, but half of their playbook is Spread formations where the two line up out wide as receivers. These two are not the only prolific runners as QB Cristiano Ramos also keeps the defenses on edge with his mobility on designed QB runs. After the defense settles all of that, they must still deal with the lethal threat on the edges in Leeroy Jenkins and Geraldo Despacito.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]
Minnesota [/div] Minnesota, despite losing Tychon Hood and Jamar Lackson to the big leagues, still carries a potent offensive attack ---- led by the dual threat of Draymond Brooks and Kai Sakura whom are accompanied by the resurgence of veterans Sim Snowbow and Zed Keppler at QB and RB respectively. Minnesota does not have much depth behind any of their offensive players but they still manage the #2 rush offense with a normal tempo, RBBC, and a mix of power and vertical looks with varied run/pass ratios.
On defense, Minnesota suffered big losses to callups. Their barren roster returns one capped defensive player in stud CB Ray-Ray Jackson, playing the NCB slot this year. The rest of the defense is common with semi-active players, both old and new, but the users have at least put solid effort into their players. Newcomer Alejandro Chainbreaker, who should be named Gamebreaker with the countless big plays accredited to his name, infectious play has spread through Minnesota as the defense enters with 6 forced turnovers (4 INT / 2 FR). The Grey Ducks run the Base Nickel packages, but with Jackson on the inside and two Strong Safety bots occupying a CB and FS slot, the defense has been the worst at covering passes.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Tactical Breakdown of the Week[/div]
Minnesota is a rare DSFL team running a vertical offense package. Vertical offense, otherwise known as “Air Coryell” offense, puts a heavy emphasis on fast receivers (Minnesota has those), power running ability (Keppler), and a strong-armed QB. The Grey Ducks have 2/3 areas covered, but the third area is the most important to a successful vertical attack. There was a time when passing attacks were frowned upon and every offense looked like a typical DSFL offensive strategy where running came first, second, and third. Faster receivers, mobile tight ends, and running backs with catching ability allowed for the expansion of playbooks, coinciding with the development of Shotgun, Split Backs, and pre-snap motion in the late 60’s/early 70’s. Sid Gilliman had a vision to stretch defenses vertically to open up running lanes underneath which would then allow for long, deep throws over the top when the defense cheats in the box.
Meanwhile, a coach at San Diego State would soon transform this vision of a true pass first offense into a staple of modern NFL offenses. After 1976, the NFL instituted the “Mel Blount” rule which flagged contact on receivers past 5 yards, 2 seasons later, Donald “Don” Coryell would move back to San Diego to overhaul the Chargers and the NFL in general. With Dan Fouts under center, the Chargers would lead the league in passing offense for 6 straight seasons. Along with James Brooks and tiny Lionel James, carrying on the tradition set by Terry Metcalf in St. Louis, establishing the role of the all-purpose back, racking up all-purpose yards in bundles. The biggest change that lead to the Chargers leading in total offensive yards for 3 straight seasons came from tight end Kellen Winslow Sr. who re-defined the tight end position, often playing as nimble and quick as an outside receiver with such a massive frame.
The Vertical offense relied on pre-snap motion to get reads on the defense so the offense could maintain timing and rhythm while keeping the defense off balance and in a constant state of re-adjustment. Like the West Coast offense, the receivers ran various route trees and the QB would throw to a spot and not at the player. The strengths of the vertical offense come from fast receivers to keep the secondary backpedaling which would then open up lanes for running backs to gash through for big runs. The running backs must also be able to catch passes out of the backfield if the offense breaks down. The “Vertical” Tight End is a crucial threat that can always find a hole in the mid-range territory and provide a unique blend of size and speed to play on the outside and provide mismatches on slower LB’s or smaller DB’s. The extra attention at the line of scrimmage allows for WR’s to avoid double teams and shaded coverage on the outside and run their routes with precision so the QB can deliver to the spot and not need to make several reads. The QB has to have a big arm, like Fouts, Marino, Bledsoe, Gannon, et al, which is why I’m curious to see how this package works in the DSFL when the QB’s skills are limited and Snowbow in particular has more emphasis on mobility than arm power.
Joe Gibbs also used a bruiser version of the Vertical Offense, where he utilized two te’s as blockers and receivers to keep defenses on edge. His “Hogs” o-line could open up lanes against almost any front four and it allowed him to run more singleback sets with three WR’s (The “Posse”) so his backs could run for days. Gibbs backs were more known as “F-Backs”, not fullbacks, but backs that could run, block, split wide, or pass catch out the backfield. The weakness of the vertical offense came from relying on 5-7 step dropbacks and long developing routes, ergo a lethal pass rush could stop the QB and force him to move out the pocket and re-scan his reads and throw off his timing with his receivers. Likewise, smart, run-stopping DB’s could force a vertical attack into becoming one-dimensional and allow the defense to set up for throws in obvious passing situations.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]First Quarter[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]QB Snowbow[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Heights DE[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]RB Keppler[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Out NT[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]TE End (Bot)[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Woof (GM) DE[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]FL Martins[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Zelos OLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]X Brooks[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Mouseman SLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Z Sakura[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Woods WLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]OL Jones[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Kennedy (CB) OLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]OL Thunder[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Bear (SS) CB1[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Dookmariot (SS) CB2[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]O’Donnell (GM) (CB) FS[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Mouse SS
[/div]
Minnesota opens with the ball and we notice that they are using semi-active backup rb Martins as the flanker. Minnesota’s offense is top heavy, and the lack of depth shows in their opening formation. However, they do boast two human o-line players and their active players are all certified playmakers. In fact, Brooks started the game with a 29- yard kick return, possible a positive sign for the Grey Ducks down south on the beach. The Buccaneers, now in a regular 34 defense, have their linebackers in their natural positions, but their lack of defensive depth shows as they have to use both of their CB’s out of position and hope that they can stop everything at the first level and not become susceptible to passing plays in short yardage situations.
On the second play, Minnesota shifts to the Spread and Sakura breaks an in route for 17 yards and on the next play, Minnesota shows their versatility by calling an FB Fly route that allows Brooks to break deep for a 24 yard reception. With Myrtle Beach reeling, the Grey Ducks call a QB run and catch the Buccaneers is a Cover 4 and Snowbow weaves his way through defenders for a 26-yard touchdown run to finish the drive in 4 plays and 1:49 while covering 67 yards. Snowbow starts off hot against the weak Buccaneers pass defense with 41 yards on 2/3 attempts and the 26-yard scamper. [7-0] MGD
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]QB Joestar[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Brooks DE[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]RB Jeffrey[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Ranger DT[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]TE1 Mo[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Exotic DT[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]TE2 Despacito (WR)[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Mamba DE[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]X Matthews[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Sackson SLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Z Bodenhammer[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Chainbreaker WLB[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]OL Krishna[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Jackson NCB[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Hillard CB1[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Valve (GM) (SS) CB2[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Tee (BOT) (SS) FS[/div]
OL [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Stein SS[/div]
Myrtle Beach’s first drive sees them open in a Two TE set and we see Despacito being a team player as he lines up on the line of scrimmage as a second tight end. Joestar also is in as he is being groomed to be the aerial threat whereas Ramos will remain the runner who can occasionally toss the ball around. For Minnesota, their defense is very depleted, and the burden relies on Chainbreaker and Jackson to keep the Ducks’ defense from drowning. Since most teams do not put their best receiver in the slot, Jackson is being used in run support, but so far, the trade off has caused the Ducks to have the worst pass defense up to this juncture. Despite a 33-yard return by Jeffrey, the Grey Ducks stand tall and force a 3 and out and are rewarded again with a 31-yard punt. The two teams exchange 3 and outs as Minnesota falls short with three runs, no thanks to Mouseman and his two tackles, and Myrtle Beach attempts to burn Minnesota early with three Shotgun looks, but they all come up short.
On Minnesota’s next drive, we see them resort to their power run to set the drive right as Keppler gallops for 18 yards on the first two plays. Still in Pro-Set, Brooks works his man 1-on-1 and moves the chains with a 16-yard reception. After Zelos stops the next play, the Buccaneers dial up a Mike Down blitz, but Martins takes the counter right for ten yards to get to the 2-yard line. Martins then utilizes another counter play to get the 2-yard TD to wrap up the 6 play (5 run / 1 pass), 54-yard drive in 2:40. [14-0] MGD
Looking to answer, Bodenhammer sets up Myrtle Beach with a 32-yard return and a Minnesota penalty adds an extra 15 yards. On the 3rd play of the drive, Myrtle Beach, lined up in Shotgun, beat the safety blitz and dials Despacito’s number for 21-yards. On the next third down, Jeffrey rumbles for 8 yards out of I-Formation as the Myrtle Beach Bus has no intention of stopping until they reach the endzone. Two plays later, Brooks makes a key TFL but 2 straight Minnesota penalties gives Myrtle Beach first and goal. Myrtle Beach comes out in Shotgun with Ramos under center with one intention, and Ramos boots right and gets the 1-yard TD to end the 12 play (7 run / 2 pass), 3:22, 78-yard drive in which 26 came from penalties. [14-7] MBB
Minnesota drives down the field again, but Keppler missed the first 5 plays of the drive and their drive stalled with two incompletions intended for Sakura and to double-down, another futile (32 yard) punt ends the drive and the quarter.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Second Quarter[/div]
Minnesota’s defense came out ready to prove they would not be rolled over this game as Tee picks up a sack which is followed up by a false start. Ranger and Tee pile up 2 tackles apiece to force Myrtle Beach to a putrid 30-yard punt. On Minnesota’s first second quarter possession, they get to 3rd and 2 and Mouseman is beat on the edge for the first down. On the next third down, he comes back to stop Keppler short and force the punt. Jenkins has a critical penalty that stalls the Buccaneers next drive and Minnesota gets the ball back but two incompletions after their third first down forces them to punt.
Myrtle Beach gets the ball back with 5:05 in the second at their own 13-yard line. They initially move 46 yards with ease but then burn 2 minutes in their last 3 plays after having 2:57 on the clock with two timeouts. Despite being 3 for 4 for 25 yards and 3 first downs, they called 5 runs out of 8 plays. On the last play of the drive, Mo makes it to the 2-yard line but is stripped from behind after a 19-yard catch and Myrtle Beach is unable to get points on the board.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Third Quarter[/div]
On the first play of the second half, Myrtle Beach comes out in Shotgun to pass, but Brooks sets the tone with a 10-yard sack. Myrtle Beach comes right back in Spread and a TE Quick Out call allows Jenkins to break free for 15-yard catch on the edge. After a 9-yard run by Ayers, Exotic makes a huge tackle for no gain and an incompletion on 3rd down forces Myrtle Beach to punt. Minnesota, still looking for a boost from the rushing game, still have a potent passing attack to rely on as Brooks opens the drive with a 14-yard reception. On 3rd and 6, Hands pops up for a crucial 8-yard catch, but on the next third down, Kennedy stops Keppler one yard short as Minnesota searches for ways to spring Keppler for the big play.
On the ensuing Myrtle Beach drive, the crazy meter is turned up to eleven. On 3rd and 10, a max protect call allows Bodenhammer enough time to break for a 17-yard catch, after methodically driving down the field for 6 plays, Jenkins takes a post pattern for 17 yards to the Minnesota 8-yard line. At this point Ayers has 5 attempts for 31 yards, Joestar is 2/2 for 34 yards, but everyone knows Myrtle Beach’s redzone offense. Chainbreaker makes his 5th tackle of the drive after he sniffs out the all-too-familiar QB bootleg. On the next play, Ramos fumbles on the QB draw and Ranger recovers to end the 10 play (8 run / 2 pass), 72-yard drive that only took 3:40.
Minnesota was lucky to have a 3 and out on their next drive after two Zelos tackles and Kennedy forced a fumble that Minnesota was able to recover. After a towering 60-yard punt, Myrtle Beach looks to finally tie the game. A second down blitz again allows Myrtle Beach to find a receiver in the holes of the coverage, this time Despacito takes in the 19-yard catch. After a self-inflicted penalty, Myrtle Beach only runs for 7 yards on 4 straight plays, but on the 8th play, Ramos breaks for 18 yards and recovers his own fumble after Chainbreaker lays the steel on him. These plays of fortune or misfortune would characterize the game heading into the 4th quarter.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Fourth Quarter[/div]
Chainbreaker, determined to get his team the win, comes up with three consecutive tackles, but on the 10th play of the drive, Myrtle Beach flares their RB out the backfield and a prevent defense call allows Joestar to find Jenkins in single coverage again for the 6-yard TD to tie the game after a 11 play (7 run / 2 pass), 64 yard drive in 3:30. [14-14] MBB
Minnesota suffers a huge first down drop and Woods blows up two straight runs to get the ball back to Myrtle Beach and on the second play of their drive, Ramos scrambles for 11 yards, continuing his deadly duality under center. On 3rd and 8, in Shotgun, Ramos finds Despacito for 11 yards against a prevent look. A famous coach once said, “The only thing a prevent defense prevents is your team from winning.” On the 8th play, Chainbreaker again pops the ball loose on 3rd and 3 and Jackson recovers.
On the very next play, Sakura shakes and breaks loose for a 25-yard catch and run. Three plays later, Myrtle Beach’s penalty issues rear their head again as they provide Minnesota a free 15 yards on 3rd down. 4 plays later, on 3rd and 5, in I-Form, Snowbow connects on the FB Fly route. The back and forth continues as two plays later, Zelos comes up with the monstrous 11-yard sack to set up 3rd and 21 at Myrtle Beach’s 22-yard line. Minnesota manages to reach the 6-yard line for 4th and 5 but they miss the 23=yard field goal. Myrtle Beach slowly drives down the field, but on play 6 with 3rd and 8 at their own 18-yard line, Ramos connects with his main man, Jenkins, for the 25-yard catch and run. After a timeout and two offsetting penalties, Brooks stuffs Ayers two consecutive plays. Myrtle Beach still has a chance to get in field goal range but two drops by Mo forces them to go for it on 4th down. Minnesota gets the stop and another 15-yard Buccaneer penalty puts the ball at the Buccaneer 41-yard line. After lining up for the 53-yard field goal with 25 seconds left, Minnesota misses again, and the game goes to overtime.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Overtime[/div]
Minnesota, a victim of self-inflicted wounds, gets their drive kick-started by 31-yad Sakura return. On the first play of OT, The Buccaneers call a Man Spy while Minnesota is in Two TE and Snowbow’s target is double-covered and Mouse comes up with the incredible interception to put Myrtle Beach at the Minnesota 30-yard line. The Buccaneers again leak their back out on a pass route and Bodenhammer is able to haul in a 9-yard reception on the outside. Chainbreaker, in super-saiyan mode at this point, deflects the pass on the next play. Myrtle Beach resorts back to their reliable Shotgun formation and Mo is able to take his TE Deep Out route for 10 yards under the Cover 2 blanket. Mo, set to avenge his two big drops, come back on the next play and slips loose for the game-winning 6-yard touchdown.
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Ramos 12/19 160 yds 7 att, 30 yds, 1 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Brooks 4 rec, 65 yds, 3 KR, 62 yds[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Joestar 10/16, 89 yds, 2 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Chainbreaker 12 TCK, 2 TFL, 2 FF, PD[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Ayers 28 att, 123 yds[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Stein 11 TCK, FF[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Jenkins 6 rec, 80 yds, 1 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Brooks 4 TCK, 2 TFL, SCK[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Mo 5 rec, 44 yds, 1 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Simpson 4 TCK, 2 TFL, SCK[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Zelos 10 TCK, 1 TFL, 1 SCK[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Sakura 3 rec, 48 yds[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Mouse 2 TCK, 1 PD, 1 INT[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Team 4 FF, 2 FR[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Total YDS
MB 460 – MIN 314
Passes
MB 35 – MIN 24
Rushes
MB 50 – MIN 35[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Looking Ahead[/div]
Both teams struggled to get their rushing attack rolling. Neither team could average over 4 ypc, but both teams were successful in the air. Myrtle Beach averaged 5.5 yards in the air and Minnesota average 6.5 yards in the air. Both teams averaged over 7 yards per play on 3rd down pass plays. Myrtle Beach only averaged under 4 yards per play on 1st down and Minnesota averaged a whopping 8.2 yards on 11 first down passes while only 3.1 yards on first down runs.
Minnesota’s most success came from the I-Formation whereas Myrtle Beach had their most success in Shotgun. However, the Buccaneers largest negative plays also came out of Shotgun despite 4 of their 6 biggest plays being from Shotgun.
Next Game: MBB @ NOR POR @ MGD
Credit:
50% @The_Kidd / 15% @Thor for sim help / 35% @Z-Whiz for pics and format help
WC: 3643
