Word from the Mouth: The Last Word For Now! edition

Word from the Mouth: The Last Word For Now! edition

Kevin Kousaie

Here we go, it’s my last article for the Fall 2021 season. This season we ended up changing locations twice since Le Ber was not in good shape after playing on it in the rain, but we managed to get through it by playing at Rosemont and doing the finals up the street at Etienne-Desmarteau, which was great for the finals. I wasn’t a huge fan of moving the games over to synthetic, but after setting up the one field on grass and seeing how hard it was, no way could we have played on grass all day long. The first game you would not be able to cut because the ground is frozen and once the ground started to thaw it would just be muddy and players would slide all over the place. Overall, it was the right decision to make.

It was cold Saturday, but it was also bearable and I’m a little pissed the heater I brought was missing an attachment and was useless and a waste to bring. 

Going into Saturday we had two teams looking to end the season perfect and at least one team trying to show they shouldn’t be overlooked. If you weren’t there Saturday Here is what went down.

 

Division 1

 

Outlaws vs Holy Trollers (57-51)

 

I could talk about this game, but I will let Terry and Will talk about it in their last Podcast of the season.

 

Division 2

 

Semifinals

 

RedZone vs Tannantes (37-43)

 

From what I saw and heard, RedZone weren’t able to stop the big plays from Tannantes and had to work for everything they got. This was a huge problem for RedZone as all season they were able to make plays and never really needed to panic. What was an issue all season for RedZone were players not catching balls when they were open and it hits them in the hands. That was evident in this game. I know Mike throws a hard ball and it was a little chilly, but at this point of the season and being the number 1 seed, you need to catch those balls and makes plays on defense. Tannantes were able to get quick scores and big plays all day long. When RedZone had the ball before half being down two scores and not being able to punch it in, it became what ended up costing them the game.

 

Iron Wolves vs KOLB (13-43)

 

I did pick KOLB to win this game, but never expected it to be this lopsided. I looked over the stats and spoke to a few players from Iron Wolves and they said it wasn’t a pretty game. Well, when the Commish throws 5 picks ain’t no way you can call that pretty. I won’t blame it all on Jon, KOLB have mad crazy athletes who probably baited him into a few bad throws. Other than James and Jon Lavoie, it didn’t seem like any of the Wolves wanted to be there and no one else showed up to play. KOLB’s defense showed up though, getting 5 picks and taking 2 back for scores, but that doesn’t surprise me what does is the fact that Alexander only had 1 sack. I guess Jon had a short field all day and that’s why he didn’t put up big numbers, but all that matters is that they won and got to move on to the finals and a chance at the title.

 

D2 Finals

 

KOLB vs Tannantes (37-31)

 

This was the type of game that everyone loved to see. You had offense, defense and even a few special teams plays. Just from the way these two teams played all season you know it wasn’t going to be over until the final whistle. The game started and I know it takes a few minutes to feel each other out, but both teams scored almost right away. Both of the picks thrown from Jon lead to Tannantes scores and the one that looked to seal the game was with seconds left in the first half and Tannantes scored on the last play of the half to hold a 24-12 lead at halftime.

KJ is normally making plays all game long, but this game he really stepped up on defense when his team needed him to. KJs first pick ended up leading to the game getting tied. His second pick came when Tannantes were marching the ball and looking for the go ahead score. With under 2 minutes left Jon had his chance to finally get his team the lead. Jon was smart with the clock and the ball and was able to find Alexandre for the game winning score with 14 seconds left.

I really thought that might have been too much time left especially when you have Phil who seems to be unstoppable. Vincent hit Phil on a short pass and was hoping that he’d make someone miss and take it to the house. That didn’t happen and it was just a gain of 7 and with their next two plays Vincent threw it deep and both times the ball fell incomplete and the game was over. KOLB came from two scores back and won the D2 title.

 

Division 3

 

Semifinals

 

Average Joes vs Thunder Buddies (32-44)

 

This was a game that both Terry and Will were playing, and I will let them talk about it on the Podcast.

 

Jagerbomb vs RawSauce (31-15)

 

I was there for this game and got to see it all and I really don’t remember much about this game at all. I do remember it was a very close game in the first half, then the second half started and it fell apart for RawSauce. At half it was 18-15 Jagerbomb and this looked like it was going to end with a team driving down on their last possession to win the game. With just under nine minutes left in the second half and the score still being 18-15, Jagerbomb’s defense stepped up and sealed the game with 2 pick sixes on back-to-back drives from RawSauce. Loic had the first one and then JF had the second one and at this point being down 16 points and a little over six minutes left RawSauce knew they were done and Jagerbomb were moving onto the finals.

 

D3 Finals

 

Jagerbomb vs Thunder Buddies (44-32)

 

This game will get covered by Terry and Will in their podcast. I say the smartest move made in this game was Jagerbomb switching rushers.

 

Division 4

 

Bines vs Idaho Udapimps (47-27)

 

I will tell you that this game was ugly right from the start. Idaho were missing Harris and Kyle who left for vacation and were also missing 2 other players who were only getting back from vacation on Sunday. With Brady missing his top two targets I’m a little surprised they even put up 27 points. In all honesty, both Harris and Kyle were probably missed more on defense and had they been there maybe giving up 47 points wasn’t going to happen. Bines came this week with what seemed to be a massive roster and Simon was able to get everyone involved in the game. Simon was a beast out there going 20 of 30 for 250 yards. I will say I was expecting him to run a little bit more, but I guess with the way he was passing and guys being open almost all day he decided to air it out. There was a lot of big plays in this game and Idaho looked to stay with Bines early, but then died out as the game went along. Being only 6 hurts and really wears you out after time. I think the better team won and even if Udampimps were a full roster, I still think they would have lost.

 

Phoenix vs Manitoboys (34-35) OT

 

This was the second time these two teams have met and this is the second time that it went to OT. There were a few plays that ended up being huge in this game. Manitoboys were up 19-12 driving the ball and time running very low on third and fourth down Adam looked to his big, tall receiver Simon in the endzone and on both plays I was able to knock it away for incomplete passes (ed’s note: superstar!). That kept the game at 19-12 going into half.

Phoenix started with the ball in the second half and took it right down the field to tie it at 19. With Manitoboys getting the ball back it was time for the Phoenix defense to step up and Gab took it into her own hands and got 2 huge sacks and forced a punt.

Last time we played I threw a pick to Rich and felt “why not do it again?”. Manitoboys scored on that drive easily from the 4-yard line.

After a punt from Phoenix, Adam was called for intentional grounding and Gab was awarded another sack (ed’s note: it doesn’t work like that…), but this time it was for a safety. Now this is where the ref makes a call that everyone on both teams knows was BS.

I was called for a hand guard and was sacked outside the endzone and it was called a safety. I think it was a hand guard call, but my issues with that call are: one, I wasn’t in the end zone and two, was how can you call a hand guard when my throwing arm is going forward? After the game Manitoboys were all telling me how it wasn’t a safety. It is what it is and I’m not mad at the ref (ed’s note: clearly…) we still had a chance to win it.

After Manitoboys got the ball after that they went in and scored to take a 34-21 lead with 4:37 left in the game.

Phoenix went no huddle and scored really fast leaving just over 3 minutes and a small chance for Phoenix to complete the comeback. Manitoboys got a first down and just needed to waste the last minute and a half to win. First play Adam threw a pass that was bobbled and touched 4 different players before Nick picked it off and almost returned for the score. Phoenix scored, got the convert, and then played defense for the last few seconds. On the last play of the game Manitoboys went trips right and left Simon 1 on 1 with me and they attempted a jump ball, but it was a badly thrown ball and no chance to be completed (ed’s note: superstar!).

In OT, Manitoboys scored right away and on our possession they took my first read away so I avoided the rush (ed’s note: probably like a superstar would!), rolled right, and had Gab open in the back of the endzone. The ball was high and was caught, but her feet were on the line when she came down. That was it game was over and Manitoboys gets to move on and play in the finals.

 

D4 Finals

 

Bines vs Manitoboys (45-18)

 

After beating Phoenix, Manitoboys were free to sit around and watch Bines play their game and get a few pointers. From the looks of the score, they didn’t learn much. Simon had a field day both throwing as well as running. The first half was a close back and forth game. Once the second half began it was all Bines. From what I remember about this game was that Simon was able to run all day and when he did throw his receivers were open with no one within a few yards, oh, and let’s not forget the 3 picks he had on defense. One of those picks the ball was low and he charged from his safety spot and dove to make the catch just inches from hitting the ground. Adam put up big numbers, but really only had two receivers step up and make any plays. Simon and Marco were the only ones to make plays on offense everyone else on Manitoboys stunk. Mathieu had good numbers and would have been the star of the game if Simon didn’t ball out. Simon woke up Saturday morning and knew that he wasn’t going to be denied winning the title. At the end of the game this wasn’t a great game to watch, unless you are a Bines fan, so only for Will.

 

I want to congratulate all the teams that won this week and now you need to think about trying to repeat come next spring. This time everyone will be out to get you. Have fun in the off season, but not too much fun and I hope to see everyone plus more back in the spring of 2022.

 

Playoff MVPs

 

This is going to be my playoffs MVP, not just finals MVP. That means that you needed to play good (ed’s note: sic) in more than 1 game and in some people’s cases, three games.

 

Division 1

 

This was an easy one as Kevin Sumda killed it in his 2 games played. Smuda had 22 catches for 221 yards, 4 TDs on offense and 7 tackles and 3 picks on defense. In the finals Smuda was the guy that Trollers couldn’t stop. It looked as if Smuda was just out there playing catch with Steve. 17 catches and 4 TDs in the finals, how can a defense let that happen?

 

Division 2

 

Jonathan Plourde had to win 3 games to win it all and over all if it wasn’t for Jon KOLB don’t win the title. In KOLB’s first game Jon was almost perfect on offense as well as making plays on defense. Against Iron Wolves other than two bad throws he did the same. Now in the finals is where he showed he is a winner. Jon didn’t play good (ed’s note: sic) in the first half, but in the second half he dominated and made every play his team needed him to. For his 3 games here are Jon’s stats: 60 of 92 for 652 yards, 16 TDs, 4 1-point converts and 1 2-point convert, and he also threw 5 picks. Jon also ran a total of 21 times for 50 yards and 1 TD. Jon also made contributions on defense with 4 tackles, 4 picks and 1 pick 6.

 

Division 3

 

I needed to pick a player from Jagerbomb and it came down to two players and I ended up going with the player who I felt made the difference in the finals and that would be JF Daloze. JF played some big defense in game one against Mustard Tigers. In game two against RawSauce, JF balled out all game on both sides of the ball. In the Finals when JF moved to rush is what I felt turned the game and gave Jagerbomb the edge. Overall JF was the big difference make and helped carry Jagerbomb to the title. JF caught 17 passes for 167 yards and 4 TDs on offense. Defense is where he really balled out. JF had 14 tackles, 2 sacks, 4 picks and 1 pick 6.

 

Division 4

 

There was only one player who could get my vote here and that is Simon Beaudoin. This man played like his life depended on him winning the title. Simon balled out all over the place and helped his team put up 92 points in 2 games. Simon went 40 of 58 for 452 yards, 10 TDs and 6 1point convert. With his legs he took off for 153 yards, 3 TDs on 22 carries. That alone was enough to be the MVP, but he also had 10 tackles and 4 picks on defense.

 

These are my picks for playoff MVPs and I think everyone can agree that those players all balled out and pretty hard to beat.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Here you are, my final thoughts of the 2021 fall season. Don’t worry I will be back in a few weeks once the winter season begins. It seems like the football season has been going on for years now. I’m really looking forward to getting to sleep in on a Saturday for the first time since the end of May.

You will all be missed and since the season ran late this year, I was forced to wear a shirt the last few weeks while I was setting up. I know the season just ended but I’m already looking to the winter season so I can improve as a passer and be ready for next spring when we will hopefully be more teams (ed’s note: we always are!). I am also looking forward to seeing how many teams move up a division or decide to split and form two teams once the cap is place. No more of these super teams playing in lower divisions, sorry Terry.

One last reminder that there are very few remaining spots for the winter so if you want one of them reach out to Jon ASAP (ed’s note: we literally have space for 3 individual players right now).

This Sunday at 1 pm we will be doing our end of the year get together. This year we are doing it at Ye Olde Orchard Pub and Grill at 1189 Rue de la Montange. Everyone is welcomed to come have a drink, maybe something to eat, and reminisce about how the season went and where it went wrong for you or your team and don’t blame the refs unless it’s Jafar, then go right ahead.

Hope to see a bunch of you out on Sunday if not have a great winter and hope to see everyone in the spring.

The Mouth's Predictions and Keys to the Game

The Mouth's Predictions and Keys to the Game

Kevin Kousaie

Predictions & Keys to Winning

 

Last week Terry and I were both perfect and Jon and Will did ok. This week I will be making my picks and trying to tell you what teams need to do in order to win their game. Here are the standings after last seek followed by my picks in bold.

 

 

Division 1 Finals

 

Outlaws vs Holy Trollers

 

l have Outlaws winning again this season. I just feel that with all the talent they have and the top QB in the division it will be hard to slow them down yet alone stop them.

 

Outlaws- Use the size advantage they have.

 

Trollers- Max will need to be perfect and hope the defense can get a stop or two.

 

Division 2 Semifinals

 

RedZone vs Tannantes

 

With the team Redzone has I think they should be able to pull it off if they can stop Phil from going off.

 

Redzone- The few times I have seen them play this season they have started off slow and dropped balls early. That can’t happen this week if they are to win.

 

Tannantes- They will need Phil to ball out like he normally does, but they need Simon or someone else to step up and take some of the coverage away from Phil.

 

Iron Wolves vs KOLB

 

I wanted to go Iron Wolves, but I just can’t see they match up. KOLB has way too many athletes and should be able to pull it off.

 

Iron Wolves- Jon will need to control the clock and keep the ball away from KOLB as much as possible. Play the slow boring game.

 

KOLB- Keep doing what they have all season, but up lots of points. Jon shouldn’t force any throws just take what the defense gives you and allow your playmakers to make plays.

 

Division 3

 

Average Joes vs Thunder Buddies

Average Joes have been perfect up to now and I can’t see that changing this week.

 

Average Joes- Jason can’t force any bad passes against this defense and needs to find the weakness early and attack it.

 

Thunder Buddies- Terry needs to play great for starters for them to have a chance, but really it will come down to the defense and if they can confuse Jason and get a few turnovers.

 

Jagerbomb vs RawSauce

 

I’m taking Jagerbomb to win just like they did in the regular season. They have the better roster and should be able to pull it out.

 

Jagerbomb- Simon just needs to take control of the game and only needs to worry about Yvan and Antoine on defense after knowing where Yvan will be, go away from him.

 

RawSauce- Ludovic needs to minimize the turnovers and keep the game close. That is how RawSauce will be able to get it done this week.

 

Division 4

 

Bines vs Idaho Udapimps

 

Bines are too strong of a team and with Simon under center Idaho will have a hard time slowing him down.

 

Bines- Keep the ball in Simon’s hands as much as possible. Now is not the time to show how much of a great QB you are, use your legs and you will win this game.

 

Idaho Udapimps- The only chance they have is to stop Simon from running so whoever is rushing needs to just contain him and force him to throw.

 

Phoenix vs Manitoboys NA

I dint pick my games all season and I won’t do it in the playoffs either, but I will tell you a how each team can still win the game.

 

Phoenix- Kevin (ed’s note: wat?) will need to be smart with the ball and not force any throws that aren’t there.

 

Manitoboys- Adam will need to take what the defense gives him and not always look for the big plays.

 

There you have my picks for the semifinals. I won’t be doing who I think will win the finals since I don’t know if I got the game correct or not and if I didn’t then the game’s I wrote about never existed and it’s a waste. If you really want to know who I have winning I will tell you. (ed’s note: wat?) D1 Outlaws, D2 KOLB, D3 Average Joes, and D4 I won’t get into because I’m playing in the semifinals so I won’t tell you who’s winning it all. You will have to be there and watch the games and see. Good luck to everyone playing this week.

 

Final Thoughts

 

Here are my final thoughts before we go to battle for the last time of 2021. I know that everyone hates the fact that I’m smarter than most of you when it comes to football and my teams are always better prepared. A few weeks back I picked up something to clean your cleats with and everyone loved it and it worked great. 

Last week after speaking with Mike I picked up a tack towel and at first, I thought it was dumb, but after using it any time it’s bad conditions out I will be using it and not a glove. It has started to get cold, and nothing is worse than a cold slick ball, right. This week I know I won’t have to deal with that. I went and picked up a heater to keep my team warm while on sideline and the ball as well. If anyone that I’m playing wants to use it, I need you to give up 12 points per player and, Jon, if you’re planning on using it, expect to see a few extra zeros on my bill this week. Yes, Marvin you can use the heater if it’s on I know you’re soft and delicate and don’t want to see you shivering. See Marvin I really am like your dad. LOL.

Last games of the season are this week and I want to remind everyone that it’s a game, but if you get hurt you have until next spring to heal (ed’s note: or winter!) so go out bust your ass and have fun.

Not sure if everyone knows, but winter season is filling up quickly and if you’re looking to play you need to reach out to Jon ASAP before it’s too late (ed’s note: we’re at 14 of 16 teams right now!). See you all out there Saturday.

Word from the Mouth: Have You Ever Seen the Rain?! edition

Word from the Mouth: Have You Ever Seen the Rain?! edition

Kevin Kousaie

We have made it this far and we just have the last week of the playoffs left. I can tell you I was super glad that I played early this weekend. I know people hate early games but at this time of the year it’s better to play when the fields are fresh and haven’t been torn up all day long.

This week it rained on and off all day, but nothing major until the last game of the day when it was bad. The three players I feel for the most when it’s like that are the QB, the rusher, and the snapper. It’s next to impossible to get a good snap off, especially when you are using a synthetic ball. The QB has the same issues with the ball, but he also must deal with bad footing and trying to avoid the rusher. For the rusher the biggest problem is running into the QB, well, really sliding into the QB, since even when you try to stop short you still have a chance of hitting him.

So far it seems like it will be decent weather next week, but we are looking into moving the games up the street in order to play on synthetic, but nothing is decided yet.

I want to give everyone some possible good news about next season. On Sunday, Jon and I went to Le Ber to fix up the field by putting down some seed and we were going to fill in some holes and level it out. George was there since the Pee-Wee Aces were playing their final game of the year for the championship. George let us know that the city has reached out to him about bringing in some dirt and leveling off the whole field early next year, which will keep the field good for years we hope. Even with the last few weeks off from playing at Le Ber the field looks way better and should be great when we start up next season, hopefully in April or May 2022. Also, in case you are looking to play in the winter, spots are filling up quickly for individuals and if you have a complete team you need to let Jon know ASAP or it might be too late. (ed’s note: we have space for 16 teams and we have 14 already!)

 

Playoff Recap

 

Division 1

 

I will be leaving D1 alone since both Terry and Will played in these games. I will just say one quick thing about each game and what I saw. (ed’s note: that is how Kevin defines “leaving a subject alone”, just not talking about it as much)

 

Outlaws vs Gros Coqs (35-34) OT

What I heard about this game was that Terry threw a dart to Jafar on a 2-point convert and Marvin who had been quiet all game made the play when it mattered.

 

Holy Trollers vs Henchmen (13-6)

This was a slow and very boring game to watch. Other than Lesniak looking like a young Ray Lewis making tackles all over the field, the biggest play of the game came when Phil picked the ball off towards the end of the game, it was bound to happen since Rossie started out working field, but then went back to trying to get the big plays.

 

Division 2

 

Tannantes vs OG Panthers (32-20)

This was a very good game to watch as it had some offense some defense and even a big play on a convert. OG started great scoring on their first possession then it got away from them. OG had a chance to tie it before half and couldn’t. Tannantes started with the ball in the second half and scored to make it a 2-score game. OG fought back to tie it at 20 on a pass from Simon to Gab for the two-point convert. Being down 6 points with 3:30 left in the game Charles was able to avoid the safety, but not the sack by Fabrice. Now sitting on their own 1-yard line, Charles drops back, throws a quick hook towards Terry, and out of nowhere Phil steps in front of it and is in the endzone for 6 and with that the game was over.

 

KOLB vs Joey’s Haters (40-33)

This game was a little wilder with big plays all over the place. In last week’s article I didn’t give Haters any shot at winning this one and they came out and tried to prove me wrong. After the game I not sure who exactly came up to see me from KOLB and asked me not to pick them to win so easily next time, because this game was a battle right up to the end. I just saw the stats and how does Max throw 5 picks and only lose by 1 score with a chance at the end to tie it or win it all with a 2-point convert? I wish I had seen this game. Both teams scored right away, and it looked like whoever was better on converts would win this game. The Haters defense stepped up in the first half, not with turnovers, but forcing a few punts. Max took advantage of this and built up a 27-13 halftime lead. At half KOLB made a few adjustments and made Max and the Haters pay. It took KOLB all of 6 minutes to tie the game at 27. After 3 straight turnovers from the Haters, they were finally able to punch one in and take a 33-27 lead that lasted a full 9 seconds, with Jon hitting Vince for the 45 yards score and with a successful convert KOLB were up 1 point. Down 1 with plenty of time on the clock, Max threw a deep pass that was picked off by Christian. With the lead and the ball, Jon led KOLB for their final score of the game and with a 7-point lead they missed the convert to seal the game. On a last-ditch effort Max heaves one up and it is picked off by Jon and just like that KOLB gets to move on.

 

Division 3

 

Jagerbomb vs Mustard Tigers (36-19)

I know nothing of this game other than what a few players from Mustard Tigers told me and that was that they got destroyed. I’m sure Terry will have some better info then I will since he is on a team with half of the guys from Jagerbomb. Yes, the score was 3 scores away from being tied, but it was closer than it looks at one point. The thing that gave the game away for Mustard Tigers was allowing Jagerbomb to score in under a minute after you made the score 18-12 them. This also happened to be right before half and Jagerbombs started with the ball in the second half and were able to score making it a 30-12 lead and at this point all Jagerbomb had to do was not screw up and the game was theirs. Really the score was 36-19, but Jagerbomb gave up a TD on the last play of the game.

 

RawSauce vs Panaches (21-20) OT

I’m not sure how this happens, but it did. Panaches dominated the first half and it looked like they were going to carry that all the way through, but at half RawSauce talked it over and figured it out. The play of the game, or I should say the mistake of the game, came with Panaches up 20-14 with 30 seconds left in. I heard this from the ref afterwards, that on third down Thomas had gone out of bounds and then came back in to play and was the first to touch the ball resulting in a penalty and the clock being stopped. This is where knowing the rules and the situation pays off. Felix should have just thrown the ball away and had one of his players stay on the defensive side of the line of scrimmage until the clock was at zero, then Panaches could have punted with no time left on the clock. Just so everyone is aware the ref can not blow the play in until everyone from the offense and the ball are behind the line of scrimmage. I know it seems like cheating, but at the end of the day a win is a win and who cares how you got it, use the rules to your advantage. In OT it took a few tries before Ludovic hit Antoine for the successful convert. Panaches had an opportunity to tie it but the ball fell incomplete.

 

Blackout vs Thunder Buddies (20-38)

Ok, I will start by saying that Blackout came late and were down 12 points with the clock running before they had 5 players to take the field. Once Blackout were there and the game was being played it was a close game. I will point out that Steve was playing QB this week and not Terry. After the game Blackout complained about it, but it was too late to do anything about it. I will let Terry go into more details since he was playing in this game.

 

Division 4

 

Phoenix vs Airborne (27-12)

From playing in this game, I will tell you the score makes it seem closer than it really was (ed’s note: Jeez…). I will tell you that Guillaume started out great and made me a little nervous. Guillaume marched just past midfield before stalling. With my first possession I had a receiver wide open behind the defense and when I went to throw the ball it started to slip from my hand and it looked like I was shot putting the ball, which ended up getting picked off. After that I was able to settle in and start moving the ball, but so was Guillaume who came close a few times to scoring on drives, but with dropped balls of passes just out of reach couldn’t keep drives going. On both of Airborne TDs they were short plays that the defense just missed tackles multiple times. I would like to know what the defense on Airborne were thinking when I was inside the red zone where I can’t run, but was coming to the line they allowed Gab to get behind them for a score that some people were amazed that she was able to turn around and keep her feet in bounds (ed’s note: it’s on the highlight video!). I also have to give a shout out to Nick who played fantastic defense and was able to knock down 4 passes with a few of them on fourth down and 1 was in the end zone for a score.

 

Manitoboys vs Spin Doctors (38-21)

I know I give Ralp (ed’s note: I’m leaving this in. That’s not even close to his name, Kevin) a hard time and a lot of shit, but since he left Spin Doctors this team just hasn’t been the same. This week they decided to have Avery play QB instead of Rob and it made no difference, it might have even hurt them more by doing that. Knowing what I knew before the game I knew this wasn’t going to be close, but deep down I wanted to see Spin Doctors pull it off. Other than Rob and Ryan no one did much in the game. For Manitoboys it was just another day for them on the field. Adam did what he does and puts up points and the defense made their presence felt with 5 picks and returned 1 for a score.

 

Idaho Udapimps vs Sneaky Snakes (38-0)

This game was called with time still left in the game. I want to know how a team like Sneaky Snakes who people thought would win it all in this division after starting out the season 5-0 went 1-5 after starting down the stretch and were blown out in 4 of those games. Idaho is a good team, but they lacked experience coming into the season and now know the game a little. In this game Brady balled out and showed that even in the rain the deep ball is his go to. Even throwing 6 TDs and picking off 2 balls Brady was still out done by his own teammate who, like Madonna and Prince, only has one name and that name is Harris. This just shows you that when Harris is there you better know where he is on the field at all times.

 

Top Performances of the Week

 

With only 10 games being played last week I feel like picking 2 players per division is just a waste and not really cool, so I am going with 1 player per division. This will mean that the player I picked made an impact on both sides of the ball or maybe the key play of the game. When I was thinking about who I should put up here I had a few good players for each division and had to really go in and look at those stats to figure out who earned it the most.

 

Division 1

 

I hate to do this and it will make his head even bigger, but this week I have to give Marvin Steinberg a little bit of respect. Big Marv went out and put up below average numbers for him, but was still able to make some plays. Marvin caught 9 passes for a total of 35 yards, yes 35 yards, 3 TDs and the game winning extra point in OT. On defense he managed 3 tackles and 1 pick. Not bad for a guy we all hate, LOL Marvin you know we all love and want you on our team.

 

Division 2

 

I hate having to give this award to a QB because normally all they do is play offense and they still need their receivers to make plays. This week Jonathan Plourde made plays in every aspect of the game, with his arm, legs and defense. This wasn’t Jonathan’s best week on the stat sheet and with the weather you can’t blame him. All Jon did was go 16 of 30 for 183 yards, 5 TDs, 2 1point converts as well as 1 2point convert. With his legs he had 37 yards on 6 carries and 1 TD. When he was on for defense, he only made 1 tackle but picked off 2 passes.

 

Division 3

 

The best rusher in the division this week showed up and wanted to show everyone he can be a stud on offense as well. Antoine Theroux came this week to play. He grabbed 4 balls for 60 yards, 2 TDs, and a 1point convert. For defense he managed to get 2 tackles and only 1 sack. You probably are wondering why I picked him this week, right. Antoine hauled in the game tying 45-yard TD with 19 seconds left in the game and then in OT caught the convert to win the game for RawSauce. If that isn’t making an impact, then I don’t know what is.

 

Division 4

 

This was a relatively easy pick to make. I gave it to a player with no last name. If you read above you know that I’m talking about Harris. He balled out and made huge plays all game or at least until the game was called with 5:18 left. Harris made 5 catches for 123 yard and 4 TDs. The man made not a single tackle on defense this weekend, I guess when you pick off all 3 passes that comes your way you really can’t make any tackles.

 

There you have it, my top ballers of the week. Next week is the final week of the season, so if your team is still playing and you want to see your name up here you better ball out and win your last game of the season. Good luck to everyone this championship weekend.

Playoff Predictions and All Star Teams

Playoff Predictions and All Star Teams

Kevin Kousaie

Predictions

 

After 9 weeks of the season and 165 picks for Jon and myself and Terry and Will making 155 picks, it was declared that I was the winner of the media picks this season (ed’s note: I picked some non-MFL games as well, mostly Korean baseball, to get the extra 10 picks). It was a rough start to the season for me after week 1 where I only had 46% of my games picked right, but coming down the stretch I was able to finish at 72%. Terry liked to point out that last season he won with 73% of his games correct, which is true, but Terry won last season by 1 game whereas this season I won by a few more.

Last season we did spreads for the playoffs, but this season we are not doing that except for maybe the finals. Here are how the standings finished and then you will see my picks for round 1 of the playoffs, in bold like always.

 

 

Division 1

 

Outlaws vs Gros Coqs

Outlaws have been dominating all season long and that shouldn’t stop this week. I don’t think it will be a completely one-sided game due to weather, but if Outlaws are to lose it will be because of the running from Dom.

 

Holy Trollers vs Henchmen

I think that the Trollers roster is a little bit better overall and they are the better team. I can see Henchmen falling apart if the game doesn’t start out right for them and it will just go downhill from there.

 

Division 2

 

OG Panthers vs Tannantes

I just can’t see how OG will be able to stop or even slow down Phil and it will be a long day for them trying. OG can win this game, but they need the defense to really step up and get some short fields for Charles to work with.

 

Joey’s Haters vs KOLB

Haters have no chance in this game whatsoever. KOLB have too many players that can make plays at any moment. Haters, just don’t show up and avoid getting rained on all day. At home it’s nice and dry and you can always look back 10 years from now and be like, “what could have been if it was nicer weather out and if we had a better team”.

 

Division 3

 

Mustard Tigers vs Jagerbomb

This is a rematch from week 1 where it went to OT. This week it’s not about setting your season up, it’s win or go home. Jagerbomb have the better team from top to bottom and with a few Mustard Tigers no longer on the team, Jagerbomb should win with ease.

 

Panaches vs RawSauce

I wanted to go Panaches, but then I was looking over the rosters and couldn’t do it. RawSauce have the best player on the field in Yves, they have the better rusher in Antoine, and I would say that Panaches has the better QB, but only because he can run. Normally you’d go with the team with the better QB, well not in this case. 

 

Thunder Buddies vs Blackout

I took the underdog in this game. Last week Blackout didn’t even show up for their game and I hope they come out this week, but even if they do, with the roster Terry put together I can see them winning, but it being tough.

 

Division 4

 

Airborne vs Phoenix NA

I don’t pick my team’s games.

 

Spin Doctors vs Manitoboys

Manitoboys are a solid team and as long as they play decently, they should beat Spin Doctors. Spin Doctors have become a mess over the last few weeks and have decided to move on from Rob at QB and have Avery play this week in the playoffs.

 

Sneaky Snakes vs Idaho Udapimps

Sneaky Snakes started the season great, but finished like crap and after losing a few players from the roster they aren’t the same team anymore. Idaho is a good team and if they play like they did last week they should be able to pull off the win.

 

There you have my picks for the week. Let’s remember that this is who I think will win, but it is playoffs and everyone has a chance (ed’s note: except Joey’s Haters, apparently).

 

Power Rankings

 

At this point of the year power rankings don’t mean snuffle-bugs, so I am scrapping them for another section that I do every year at this point of the season.

 

All-Star Team

 

Here is how it will go. You can only make the All-Star team for 1 position and it must be in you highest division you play. Now let’s see who makes my All-Star team.

 

Division 1

 

Offense

QB- Stephen Harripersaud

WR1- Kevin Smuda

Slot1- Phil Pharand

Center- Laurent Foucault

Slot2- Hinsley Adams

WR2- Guillaume Roberts

 

Defense

Rusher- Felix Bergeron

Corner1- Ariel Librati

Middle- Dilan Daoust

Corner2- Alexander Noel

Saftey1- Marvin Steinberg

Saftey2- Simon-Pierre Laferriere

 

Division 2

 

Offense

QB- Michael Roy

WR1- Kerano Johnson

Slot1- Simon Anctil

Center- Frederik Cespedes Dionne

Slot2- Anthony Drysdale

WR2- Dominic Stiplosek

 

Defense

Rusher- Jonathan Lavoie

Corner1- Tristan Lessard

Middle- Oliver Mathieu

Corner2- David Marcotte

Saftey1- James Langshaw

Saftey2- Justin Salonga

 

Division 3

 

Offense

QB- Jason Armenti

WR1- Alex Morin

Slot1- David Brisson

Center- Thomas Znoj

Slot2- Jason Edwards

WR2- Benjamin Denis

 

Defense

Rusher- Antoine Theroux

Corner1- Thomas Plante

Middle- Jean-Hugues Lefebvre

Corner2- William Plante

Saftey1- Nick Egley

Saftey2- Ryan McSweeny

 

Division 4

 

Offense

QB- Adam Gozen

WR1- Julian Sablowski

Slot1- Marco Gavita

Center- Kyle Daniels

Slot2- Marilou Cote Noel

WR2- Simon Dumas

 

Defense

Rusher- Francis Crevier

Corner1- Felix Lalonde

Middle- Nicolas Poitevin

Corner2- David Michaud

Saftey1- Simon Beaudoin

Saftey2- Brady Ohanessian

 

There you have it, my 2021 fall season All-Star teams. Congratulations to everyone who made the cut. Just so you know MS, you just made the cut, and it took some convincing to put you up here. It was between you and the air and you won by a 3-2 vote.

 

Final Thoughts

 

When I started to write this week article, I was thinking to keep it under 4000 words, well that won’t happen. I will be over by a couple hundred at least, but for the final article of the regular season it isn’t bad.

I’m not sure who watched the Monday night game this week, I only caught bits and pieces of it, and boy do the refs suck. I’m a Packers fan so when the refs were allowing Fields to get hit repeatedly when it should have been a penalty is fine by me, but if that was Brady those flags would have been flying all day long. The best call of the game was the taunting penalty by the Bears for looking at the Steelers sideline while the punt team was coming out. The NFL has become a joke the last few seasons and it doesn’t look to get better any time soon. Its time for the MFL to move their games to Sunday, so Saturday we can watch real football and by that, I mean the NCAA. I know that will never happen since Brossard is Sunday, but it would be nice.

OK enough about that and time for all the playoff teams to be thinking about this week’s game plan. This is also the time where anything can happen, and you need to bring your A game. I know we are playing a game and we are all out to have fun, but now is where taking it easy isn’t acceptable. Go out, bust your ass, and leave it all out on the field and if you’re lucky enough to win, you can play next week and if you lose you know you gave it your all.

Best of luck to everyone playing this week and be prepared for rain and pray for it to be like last week (ed’s note: shouldn’t be much rain!). See you all Saturday.  

 

Word from the Mouth: Someone Call the Po Po 'cause We Just Hung Up a 5-0! edition

Word from the Mouth: Someone Call the Po Po 'cause We Just Hung Up a 5-0! edition

Kevin Kousaie

Folks, we made it to the seasons end. Last fall we got cut after four weeks so we had no champ. The season is over and now the real season is beginning, the playoffs (ed’s note: spoilers!).

I want to say thanks to everyone for making the season what it was. This season we saw a bunch of new teams and a few teams switching up the roster. I’m not sure about everyone else, but I am so glad we moved from Le Ber to Rosemont which actually has grass.

This week it looks like there might be rain over the weekend which means games are going to be sloppy and the earlier you pay the better the field will be. At this point of the year, we can’t really ask for better weather and we can all pray for another 2 weeks of good weather to finish off the season.  I personally hate playing in the rain, but will deal with it. I have a few tricks up my sleeve that will help me and my team.

This week we will only have round 1 of the playoffs which means its going to be an early day wrapping up and a little later start. First game will be played at 9:30 and the last game will be over by 3:30. I can’t wait to not get up and leave the house by 6 am. I know this week we will have only 10 games being played, but I can see at least one or two upsets happening.

I missed watching football all weekend, but in both the NCAA and NFL there were a few games that shocked everyone. I also have to wonder what the NCAA is doing with the first week of playoff rankings. How is Cincinnati not in the top 4? (ed’s note: wait, they are.) I agree with Georgia and Alabama, but having Michigan State and Oregon really, both those teams are crap. The PAC 12 is the worst conference out there and when you think Michigan State you think basketball or at least I do. When their playoffs are set, I can see it being Georgia, Alabama, Oklahoma and Cincinnati. This will only happen if Alabama beats Georgia in the SEC championship.

That’s it for now you all want to know which games I picked to cover and what I heard from all the other games this weekend, so here we go.

 

Weekly Recap

 

Division 1

 

Centurions vs Holy Trollers

 

Game 1 (26-38)

With playoffs on the line, Centurions had a few chances to get in. They need to win one of their two games and Gros Coqs lose or to win both of their games. In the first game of the day, both teams started out by scoring on their first three drives. Some of those scoring drives were because of big plays, but both teams seemed to be ok with working the ball and taking a shot when they had the chance and the player being open. With a minute left in the half the first change of possession happened and it was a punt from the Trollers, this was now the opportunity for Centurions to take the lead and with them starting the second half with the ball, put some separation between the teams. Well, it only took two plays for centurions to give the ball right back on a pick made by Max S. Max was able to punch it in before the half, but failed on the convert. The second half began, and Centurions went in to score and get their convert to hold a 1-point lead 26-25. Max then proceeds to eat up 7 plus minutes on the clock as he led the Trollers back down to score and take the lead. After Trollers scored Centurions tried to rush and get going, but threw their second pick on the day and with Max having a short field to work with he extended the lead and that was it after that Centurions were done.

 

Game 2 (12-24)

After just playing a game against each other there was going to be no feeling out the other team, it was straight to business. It took Centurions three drives before they were able to reach the end zone and once they did, they narrowed the score down to 12-6. Trollers scored not by the big plays, but by chunk plays all the way down. With the Trollers starting the second half with the ball, Max did something he normally doesn’t do and that was chew the clock. Trollers took almost 9 minutes off the clock while scoring again. At this point it felt like everyone knew the game was over and Centurions were going to be watching the playoffs from home this season. Centurions tried to make it a game by scoring quickly, but then the defense let them down by not being able to get a stop. With the score 24-12 Trollers and just under 7 minutes left no one was able to do much from this point on. Centurions needed to score twice, and Trollers just sat back and didn’t allow anything big and that ended up being the game. Trollers finish with the second seed and knew they would be facing Henchmen in round 1.

 

Division 2

 

Outlaws vs Tannantes (38-48)

 

In a must win game for Outlaws, they came out and screwed the pooch yet again. All season the Outlaws defense has given up play after play and nothing changed this week. The first half was all offense and no defense what so ever. What has been the big problem for Outlaws this season popped back up again in this game. Outlaws scored with 23 seconds on the clock and it looked like the half was going to end 20-21 Tannantes. Vincent had another idea and took 4 plays to go 45 yards and then convert on the convert all that and they still left time on the clock for Outlaws to get a shot, but that fell short. Half score was 28-20 Tannantes. Outlaws started second half and scored right away missed convert and then got a quick 4 and out, but couldn’t capitalize on it and were still down 2 points. It started to go back and forth until Simon picked the ball off and retuned it for a score. At that point the Outlaws pretty much knew it was over and any shot at repeating as D2 champs were gone. Outlaws not in the playoffs, who would have though that going into the season?

 

OG Panthers vs Vultures (35-18)

 

Before this game happened, everyone knew it was just for fun and meant nothing to either team. Also, before the game Terry somehow convinced Ben not to run in this game and it wasn’t fair. Terry just eliminated half the offense from Vultures in one little conversation. Once the game began and Ben wasn’t running his team was telling him he needs to, but he said that he wouldn’t and he didn’t run all game. What I didn’t think was cool about this game was that Charles was able to run and he did once for 1 yard. I told Terry that this game needs to become a forfeit since it wasn’t fair that Charles was running all over the place. About midway through the first half, if you saw the speed Terry was firing off the line from his rushing position you would have had to slow the film down just to see him, Oh wait, I meant speed it up. Slowest rush ever. The highlight of this game was when Terry went up the seam and was open and according to him the ball was way too high and uncatchable. Terry looked like he had never caught a ball before as it looked as if he was hugging air. I might not always agree with Jafar, but we both couldn’t stop laughing at him after that. We all know that if Ben played QB all season for Vultures they would have been in playoffs easily.

 

Division 3

 

Blackout vs Thunder Buddies (0-25) Forfeit

 

Ok, so right off the bat, Blackout didn’t show up or at least most of the team didn’t come. Ryan was the only one to show up. I asked Terry what he wanted to do, and he said he wanted to play to get some reps. That was fine by me, but now I had to find 5 players to play with Ryan. It wasn’t hard and I had 4 players from KOLB in D2 and Manu from D4 to play. Once it was arranged, Jafar decided he wasn’t going to play. Luckily for Terry, Vultures showed up early and Ben and his center decided to play with them. They were only going to play half, so with under a minute left Terry asked to me to allow him to finish his drive so I stopped the clock every play and they scored got the 2point convert, but still lost by 2 points. In this game Terry looked good on a few deep throws that none were caught. I know Nick dropped one and so did Dave, if I remember correctly, and they both were surprised the ball got there with such a good spiral on the ball and not hanging up in the air. Both probably should have caught the ball or at least Nick should have.

 

Mustard Tigers vs Panaches (25-26) OT

 

Both these team were in the playoffs before it began, and it was just a matter of where they would finish. I’m not sure how, but Mustard Tigers jumped out to a 12-0 lead and looked like they were just going to cruise for the win. Felix and Panaches had other plans. They were able to fight back and take the lead 13-12 going into half. Second half began and Panaches started with the ball went down and scored fast and it stayed that way for a while. Mustard Tigers scored with under 7 minutes left, but failed on the convert. Panaches scored once they got the ball and here is where it gets questionable. Why go for 1 when you’re up 7 instead of going for 2 to make it a 2-score game? (ed’s note: to make it a one score game with a 2-point conversion requirement to tie. It all depends on how confident you are in your 1 and 2-point convert plays) It’s not like Panaches are inexperienced, but you need to know these things. Panaches got it to make take an 8-point lead. Brian had 1:46 on the clock and needed to score and get the 2 point convert just to force OT. Brian was able to get it done and left just seconds on the clock for Panaches. They went to OT and Felix led Panaches to score with their first possession and Mustard Tigers who used all their luck on scoring to tie the game just couldn’t get it done and lost the game.

 

Division 4

 

Phoenix vs Drama Club (50-25)

 

This game meant more to Drama Club then it did for Phoenix. Drama Club need to win and get help to make playoffs, where Phoenix were in and just battling for placement. Phoenix jumped out to a 12-0 lead before Drama Club woke up. Nico led them on a drive that was 2 plays and got help from a blown coverage. Then Vezina picked the ball off and ran it back to tie the game. Nico got the convert. I was asked by Manu if he could take a shot at QB and he marched the field, but we couldn’t score. Drama Club did nothing with their last possession before half. Second half began and that’s when it fell apart for Drama Club. Nico threw 3 or 4 picks back-to-back to start the second half and that’s what cost them any shot at the win. Simon was talking a lot of crap about me getting replaced as a QB, but that wasn’t the case as I allowed the other players to take a shot at it and they all ended up throwing a TD pass as well. Second half Phoenix went out had some fun and just played relaxed. At the end of the day with the win and fewer points given up Phoenix was able to finish second in the division.

 

Idaho Udapimps vs Manitoboys (30-32)

 

This was the most intriguing game of the weekend from my standpoint. I needed Manitoboys to win, but it didn’t look like it was going to get done. Idaho jumped up 14 points and looked like they were going to run away with it. Adam brought his team back and made it 14 all very quickly and right after tying it up Brady was able to hit Kyle on a deep throw down the sideline and as he hauls it in the trailing defender missed the flag and Kyle walked in for a 45-yard score. This is where it should have been over. Adam was sacked by James for the safety. Now the score is 23-20 with 1:28 left, but Brady threw a pick to Marco on his second pass. This gave Adam a short field and a chance to make it a closer game. Manitoboys scored and made it 23-20 Idaho at half. The second half started, and the game was all Manitoboys from here on out. Adam took his team to score on the opening possession of the half and never looked back after that. This was the first time I saw Simon play for Manitoboys and he is an absolute beast.

 

There you have it the final week of the season recap and the last time a few teams will get any coverage until next season.

 

Top Performances of the Week

Last chance for some players to make my list. This past week we had great weather for the first week of November. A bunch of you balled out this week and won you game as well, but for teams who needed to win if you put the team on your back and made it happen, you’re getting bonus points towards making my list and if you lost you most likely you won’t see your name up here. Here are this week’s winners.

 

Division 1

 

Offense

I had a few players to choose from, but I came to the conclusion that even with Max Rosenfeld playing 2 games that he need to be given this weeks pick. Max went 57 of 77 for 444 yards, 10 TDs, threw 1 pick and had 2 1point convert. Max also ran twice for 5 yards (ed’s note: I dream of rushing numbers like that).

 

Defense

I would normally be giving this player love for his offense, but this week Gros Coqs had Dom Lefort play rusher and he finished the day with 3 tackles that just happened to be all sacks. Someone mentioned to me that if Dom continued to rush all game that Gros Coqs were going to win, and they did.

 

Division 2

 

Two-Way Player

People hate blowout and so do I, but when you bust your ass wearing a pink shirt you get some love. Kerano Johnson made everyone on the field this week look like they were children. KJ only made 7 catches for 96 yards and a total of 5 TDs. Well on defense this man made 5 tackles to go along with his 4 interceptions and KJ also took one of his picks back for a TD. When you play like that and looked that good doing it, you’re going to get my nod.

 

Division 3

 

Offense

It was a hard choice to make this week but it came down to putting the team on your back and stepping up when he needed to, that is why this week’s winner is Jeremy Trudel. Jeremy had 5 catches for 89 yard, 2 TDs and 2 1point converts. He was also the person who scored the game winning convert in OT.

 

Defense

This week was really hard to pick a winner since so many of you guys play in higher divisions. This is the first time I see this player balling out, but I’m sure it won’t be the last time someone says Pengyi Liaos name. Pengyi made 2 tackles and both of them were sacks.

 

Division 4

 

Offense

I picked this player after seeing him play for the first time this week and I have been told that he is a beast by a few of his teammates. Simon Dumas played twice this week and made a big impact in both games. Simon made 14 catches for 162 yards, 4 TDs and 1 1point convert. Simon is tall, fast and you can’t miss him on the field.

 

Defense

The player I went with here is a player that was added to my teams roster a few weeks ago to replace a player that won’t be able to make it for playoffs. If I had known that Manu Allard-Roy was such a baller I would have added him weeks ago. This week Manu made 1 tackle and had 2 picks he was also able to take one of them back for 6 points.

 

There you have it my picks for this week. I’m sure next week everyone will be balling out which will make me make these picks even harder and lets all remember next week if you lose your season is over.

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