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TOPIC: REPORT CARDS |
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| Mel Kiper Jr.
October 20, 2008
7:45:55 PM
Entry #: 2954912
| MID SEASON REPORT CARD:
With interleague play completed, teams are ready for the stretch run and a chance at the title. Although the SOUTH was dominate (15-1), with the NFL playoff format, it's still anyones game.
YOUNG GUNZ(7-0): A
The defending State tournament and Spring CHAMPS look poised to continue their run of dominance through CT. The same nucleaus since day one is bolstered by the return of some college studs (Quilles and monster O-lineman) and a few free agent pickups (Black and Sosa). Bam has found his groove, hooking up with Black and Quilles at will and using the option with E to keep the D honest. Defensively, they boast the leagues top defense giving up less than a TD a game.
Bottom line: It will take a near perfect game to dethrone the champs, as they are the favorite to repeat.
STEELERS(6-1): A-
Despite numerous injuries (Swin and Rocket) and missing Big Joe, the STEELERS are still at the top of the league and the major threat to regain their crown from the boys from New Britian. With the return of the Mike(Calovito) and numerous weapons (Pig, Rocket, Chris, Darnell and Tylee), they can put up points in a hurry. On the other side of the ball, CB Jamal, comtinues to be the bench mark for a physical cover man and the D-line always brings the HEAT!
Bottom line: Despite alot of injuries, it will be hard to pick against the STEELERS when the money's on the line.
BULLDOGS(5-2): B
League newcomer and 8-man powerhaouse BULLDOGS have adjusted well to the 9-man game. Led by great overall team play, and some excellent individual talent(QB Cervezzi, WR/DB Calvin), the BULLDOGS will be tough out come playoff time. The biggest key may be if they can get more than 10 guys for the stretch run. Either way, they've got enough to play with the proven vet's.
Bottom line: Any time you have 10-12 guys that have played together as long as these guys you have to warch out. It's not always the most talented team, but the best TEAMWORK that wins the BIG ones.
OILERS(4-3) B-
Cleary the team to beat in the NORTH, the OILERS are deep and talented.. Two veteran QB's and a physical defense have keyed the OILERs success so far. Although coming up short vs the SOUTH, they have what it takes to pull the upset.
Bottom Line: Any Given Sunday, don't sleep on these boys as they are a near shoe-in for the chip.
..........TO BE CONTINUED...............
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| Mel Kiper Jr.
October 20, 2008
9:10:07 PM
Entry #: 2955034
| MID SEASON REPORT CARD (continued...)
I've given you the BEST, now here are the REST!
CHARGERS(3-4): D+
This is probably the hardest team to grade or scout, because of the new/changing personnel. The core of the teams is strong (OL,DL,TE), and there is talent, but it seems like there are never the same skill guys from week to week. New QB(AJ) has been solid against the big teams and great against the NORTH, but will be tested in the final 3 weeks. Defensively, there are major issues... they need help at DB desperately and would benefit from having the same 6 guys each week.
Bottom line: Seem to be getting better each week and played the top 4 teams to within a TD, with solid OL/DL they will be in every game. Just too many new guys to pull it off, but will be a tough draw
RAIDERS(2-5): D
Although not as bad as their record, you never know what team is gonna show. They have alot of team speed and 2 capable QB's, but rarely seem to play as a TEAM. With practice and another playmaker they could hang with the OILERS but I can't see an upset happening.
Bottom line: They have the basis of a solid team(solid QB,decent line, speed), they need to stick together for a while and pay their dues before they will be a contender.
COWBOYS(1-6): D-
I have to admit, this team has been a big disappointment to me. I expected them to atleast test the top half of the league and beat the lower half, but that has not been the case. Very young, but talented... they are their own worst enemy. With the weapons they have (TE#2,WR,DE#94) they should be better than this.
Bottom line: Fellas, the best thing you can do is find 2 or 3 veteran players to come in and provide some leadership... show you guys how to handle adversity and stick together. You do that and the sky is the limit.
FALCONS(0-7): F
What can I say, it's been ugly so far. The positives are that week in, week out, the numbers are always there and there seems to be some vet's that half everyone's attention. Another team with alot of speed, but lacks any SIZE whatsoever. If you can't find beef create it... start feeding some players double cheeseburgers, Whatever it takes!
Bottom line: Nowhere to go from here but UP. Keep playing together, listen to the coaches and FIND SOME LINEMAN.
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