World Bowl 36/XXXVI Everything Thread

[Vangaziland]

Royals Battle Monsa

"We can't underestimate a team like this", said Coach Kenton Tillford of the Vangaziland Royals. "One of these less developed teams will likely pull off an upset. Banija, Vangaziland and Taeshan won't all finish this group stage with only one loss." The Royals were recently upset by Banija in a close battle which went into overtime.

"That game won't get in our heads", said WR Benny Banks leading into the game against Monsa. "Both of our teams are basically on the same level. There's some separation, but not enough to really call Banija our underdog." Benny smirked before continuing. "We'll hope to give it a better go in the rematch."

Vangaziland's first drive against Monsa stalled Bundison threw in a set with 2 wideouts, 2 backs and Loxingsen at TE. Bundison went for Loxingsen in the corner, but overthrew. The team only needed 5 yards to convert on 3rd down. 1st option WR Parker Vangaard looked upset after the play.

"I think those in charge of the offense need to realize who their best receiver is", Vangaard said after the close loss against Banija. The statement was seen as controversial in the Vannish media. It is believed he was upset with how many times Bundison throws to Banks or Loxingsen.

Banks shrugged off the criticism. "I'm just here to work", said Banks.

Bundison also seems to be concerned with up and coming talent. "Make no mistake. Depzman will be a solid backup for me. The kid isn't ready. So you folks remember this", the QB said to a conference room full of journalists. "Bundison is the man in Vangaziland. He will always be that guy."

Depzman laughed the statement off, but wasn't as dismissive as Banks. "Bundison has had his time in the sun. One day, the team will need to replace the aging star."

Some say these back and forth comments are hurting team chemistry. Others say it is helping to improve motivation.

The game against Monsa went pretty much as expected. Vangaziland gave up a touchdown in the second quarter. They were caught off position and gave up a big gain. "No more", Linebacker Raymond Tiller shouted after the play."Get that line tougher", he shouted at the defensive linesman. "Safeties, don't bump up too far." Tiller seemed to take control in a way that woke up the team's rough stoppers.

Monsa's next drive was stopped with back to back stops behind the line. DE Devino Hutch popped off the line to bring the RB down for a loss. Tiller broke through the middle in the next play to sack the QB on 4th down. Vangaziland's defense has been tough, giving up just 43 points going into this match.

Vangaziland picked up one TD on a 7 yard run from Taye Poconos. Taye plays at the FB spot, but was previously Vangaziland's HB. He bulked up during the off season. Taye still has enough quickness to be a threat from a flex spot. Powerback Devon Hanssen is big enough to also lay solid blocks.

"Having Taye and I in the backfield is a nice 1-2 threat", Hanssen said after the game. The vitriol between some of the other players doesn't seem to exist between the running backs.

Bundison picked up two touchdown passes. He threw a 15 yard TD where Benny Banks picked up 7 yards after the carry. Vangaard picked up another TD reception with a short goal line reception. The run had been forced down Monsa's throats by that point. Hanssen picked up 115 rushing yards throughout the game. It was his second scoreless match in a row, with Poconos getting the score.

"In the end, I took the running back spot from Taye", Devon said. "We understand we each have a role. Okay. So I missed out on the T.D.. Think of how often he has to focus on just blocking, or sitting out for more formations. There's give and take. We are a team. We need to come together even more."

The halfback's words seemed to go over well with the team. After the game, the Royals celebrated together in the center of the field. "It wasn't excitement because we won", said Fred Loxingsen. "I think we really bonded out there today."

Bundison went 25 of 34 for 340 yards. He managed not to throw an interception, though some of his misses were still terribly off target.

"Dan is our guy", Coach Tillford said about Bundison. "Depzman is the future. Be we haven't turned our back on the guy who got our team where it is today."

"I'll have my era", said Depzman. The backup QB has mostly filled the role of long snapper this season. "I'm glad to shadow him and learn the offense." It appeared Josh wasn't taking Bundison's earlier comments personally.

Vangaziland will square off against Frenline Delpha on Matchday 6.

[Union of Socialist Alpine Republics]

OOC: I wasn't planning to RP but here we go

SFL rookie profiles

Malbork, Republic of Prussia East - (NAP) This weekend the 2023 SFL draft was held in Malbork, for round 1 results, Click here. Here's a rookie profile for the top 3 prospects:

Tyquavious Wilderbralthwait
Position: Quarterback
Height: 6'5''
Weight: 238 lbs
Drafted: 1st overall by the Beach City Lions
College team: North Chattahoochee Crimson Tide
Birthplace: Duck Hill, CH

Wilderbralthwait might be one of the best athletes to come out of the Alpine Union. He's one of the best passer and best rusher in Alpine college football history. A true scrambling quarterback, he didn't only passed for 2731 yards with 33 touchdowns in his final college year, he also ran for another 1636 yards with 22 rushing touchdowns. He also had 2 receiving touchdowns for a total of 57 touchdowns in is final college year!

One of Wilderbralthwait's best weapon is his feet and he makes plays on the ground. He also break tackles and isn't affraid to run for extra yardage instead of running out of bounds. As a quarterback, he has a strong arm and is very accurate.

Keyshawn Woodcock-Hunter
Position: Right defensive end
Height: 6'5''
Weight: 288 lbs
Drafted: 2nd overall by the Harwich Yellow Jackets
College team: Central Chattahoochee Razorbacks
Birthplace: Buckhead, CH

Woodcock-Hunter is really good against the run and a top pass rusher. He uses his hands to shed blocks with ease. He has a good mix of size, power and quickness.

Colton Novak-Reigelsperger
Position: Middle linebacker
Height: 6'2''
Weight: 243 lbs
Drafted: 3rd overall by the Mendota Steam Roller
College team: Wabash Huskies
Birthplace: What Cheer, WA

Novak-Reigelsperger is really good at tracking down ball carriers when pursuing them on the field or in coverage when he serves as a zone defender. He's also a very good blitzer.

[A Rosa]

DISAPOINTMENT IN WORLD BOWL XXXVI FOR A ROSA

5 games played for the Annattle RG Wolves who are representing the Kingdom of A Rosa and its Colonies in the great WorldBowl XXXVI. We are currently 0-5 in Group D.
But lets not dwell on the losses, we have had a rough group and with this being are first ever International American Football tournament we should be proud of our performance. We've had some close games were we might have only been 1 touchdown apart or even less.

Here are all our results
1: Allamunnic States 40–10 A Rosa
2: A Rosa 10–31 New England
3: Alpine Union 12–7 A Rosa
4: A Rosa 22–27 Monarch Republic
5: Velestria 14–7 A Rosa


Well done to all the team you've done us proud!
Also thank you to Ko-oren for hosting such a good tournament!

Long Live King Loch 1
All Hail the Kingdom of A Rosa and its Colonies

[Banija]

"Our offense stinks"- Alastair Jobs brutally honest as Banijan offense fails to score touchdown in regulation for third straight game


Alastair Jobs during his postgame press conference against One Jamaica

EAGLEBURY, KO-OREN- The Serpent Eagles exploded into this tournament. They haven't been to the knockout stages of a World Bowl since World Bowl XXXI, as they got eliminated in the group stages both in World Bowl XXXIV and World Bowl XXXV. They came out firing in this World Bowl, with Isaka Jawara, the college football legend who just graduated from the University of Loyola-Istria, hitting all cylinders as he was back under the tutelage of his original college coach, Alastair Jobs. Putting up 40 points in the opener, and then following that up by scoring 41 points, the offense was on all cylinders after their first two games.

But something has changed since then. This One Jamaica game was a victory for the Banijans, and I'm sure a game that Alastair Jobs will surely take. However, it was certainly an ugly victory for the Serpent Eagles. The offense had two red zone turnovers, with four field goals in the game overall and zero touchdowns, to win, 19-3, over a single win One Jamaica side. It was yet another rough outing for the Banijan offense, who in their last 12 regulation quarters, have scored six field goals and exactly no touchdowns, as well as having committed 8 turnovers over that timespan. Of course, we must mention that they scored two touchdowns and a two point conversion in the pair of overtime periods against Vangaziland, but still- that's a horrible record, notwithstanding two overtime periods where the drives started at the opponent's 25 yard line.

This game was ugly all-around, but Alastair Jobs said that was a testament to his team. "Our defense was asked to step up for the second game in a row, and they have answered the call, once again. They smothered One Jamaica, and our defense suffocated them. WE won the battles at the line of scrimmage, and Yonas Azikiwe's pick six was a great jump on the football by an excellent cover corner. But if we win at the point of attack, and get pressure consistently with our four down linemen, then we can continue to be stout defensively, and make sure that we're in any and every game that we play."

The offense had a big problem- they were moving the ball, a little bit, but they could not finish drives. They were unchasterically sloppy, and as they got near the end zone, everything seemed to go wrong for them all day. It wasn't like the Taeshan game, where it was all turnovers and punts, and it wasn't like the Vangaziland matchup, where both teams were trading punts all day long. The Banijans would be able to move the ball between the 20s. But they crossed the 20, and froze. A first quarter drive stalled in the red zone, when the Banijans failed to move the line of scrimmage on 2nd & 1, and then on 3rd & 1, from the 8 yard line, and were forced to kick a short field goal.

Another red zone drive in the fourth quarter ended in disaster, when on 3rd and goal from the 12, Isaka Jawara, being pursued by Defensive End Denver Hoover. Hoover was able to hit him as he threw, and the ball sailed over the head of his intended target, Christos Cosse, as Strong Safety Tony Harrison made a diving interception in the back of the end zone, to ensure the Banijans came away with no points. They had another drive reach the red zone at the end of the second quarter, but a 12 yard touchdown run by Isaka Jawara was negated by a downfield holding call on Tijan Kujabi, so the Banijans were forced to kick another field goal. They went into the half up 6-0.

It was the first play from scrimmage of the 3rd quarter that provided the best news for the Banijans. On a 1st and 10 from their own 31, One Jamaica ran a pair of simple curl routes on a play-action. Yonas Azikiwe jumped the route, picked it off at the 39 yard line, and ran it back to the house. A 39 yard interception return for a touchdown, and a converted extra point later, made the score 13-0 for the Banijans, and gave them some breathing room for the first time. Par to form, they allowed a big kick return, all the way to their own 27 yard line, but they held the Panthers to a 48 yard field goal, to make the score 13-3.

On the Banijans next drive, they used 16 plays to go 83 yards, to give themselves a 3rd and goal at the 2 yard line. This drive, of course, they were 4/4 on third down, having their biggest plays on the money down. However, everything went horribly wrong here. It was a read-option, and Isaka Jawara leaned into the running back to hand the ball off. The exchange was not timed well with Justice Greenspan, who knocked the ball out of Isaka Jawara's hands, and fumbled. Panther defender Ron Smith, the mammoth, 380 pound Defensive Tackle, emerged from the pile with the football, and that was Banija's second red zone turnover. An 8 minute, 16 play, 83 yard drive, that ended up with no points.

It was, all in all, a rough outing for the Banijan offense. Even as they drove into position for kicker Chioma Uchie to hit two more field goals, one from 37 and another from 42 in the fourth quarter, it was a frustrating day for the offense. "Our offense stinks." Declared Alastair Jobs after the game. "There is frustration all around the locker room, and the coaching staff is just as frustrated as the players, who are just as frustrated as our fans. We're working to restore a proud football tradition, and our performance today simply wasn't good enough. A red zone fumble and a red zone interception in the same game? Unbelievable."

Isaka Jawara had the same words. "The mid group stage break couldn't come at a better time- we all recognize that we have to fix our offense." He said. "We have all the talent in the world- but that comes down to me. I can't fumble when we're two yards away from the goal line, I can't throw interceptions in the red zone. But beware- our offense is absolutely going to be fixed. We have far too much talent for it not to be. From Justice Greenspan at running back, to our great trio of starting receivers, and the ageless Christos Cosse, we're too good to keep playing like this. We're going to maintain our focus and get ready for the second half of the group stage- it's going to be a race to the finish for the knockout stage in this group, and we want Banija to go back to its rightful place in this sport- in the thick of the conversation of the multiverse's best gridiron nations. and we know that our group is good enough to do that, if only we perform."

And that, they must. With Banija, Taeshan, and Vangaziland in a 3 way tie atop Group F, there is everything to play for in the second half of the group stage. Two of these teams will find their places in the knockout stages, while one will go into the pool of 7 third place teams, with the top two making up the final pair of participants in the Round of 16. Expect a lot of adjustments- in playcalling, maybe even in the depth chart. Even though Jawara is struggling, we sincerely doubt Alastair Jobs will bench the guy he recruited out of high school to his old job, who was such a superstar in college. Everywhere else on offense, however, some sort of sea change is expected to get this team rolling again.

[Trans-Dniesters]

Приднестровская Гридиронная Суперлига
PRIDNESTROVIAN GRIDIRON SUPER LEAGUE
SEASON III RECAP

Hello again, friends, comrades, and fellow fans in gridiron. Once again, I'm back, and once again, I've got another part of the Season 3 recap of the Pridnestrovian Gridiron Super League. Enough talk now; let's dive right in!

MATCHDAY SEVEN

Bratsk Dolphins         10  7 10  7  34
Kesselburger Kestrels    7  0  0  0  7

Admiral Novorossiysk     3 10  6  3  22
Sheriff Tiraspol         0  7  0  0  7

Yeralenko Torpedoes      7  2  7  3  19
Antakya Hawks            3  3  0  0  6

Novonikolaysk Sharks     3  3  7  7  20
Vladikrav Red Death      0  0  7  3  10

CSKA Tiraspol            6  0  7  7  20
Rheinburg Spartans       7  0  7  0  14

Dinamo Bender            7  0  3  3  13
Macaresti Gladiators     0  0  3  0  3

Dinamo Bender finally get their second win of the season. If you went back in time, like immediately after Dinamo's second Pridnestrovian Bowl, and told the Dinamo fans that they were not going to get their second win of the next season until Week 7 then I'm sure they would have laughed you out of the pubs for being a crazy Dinamo hater. And yet nobody's laughing now. Dinamo really worked hard to grab this win against the Macaresti Gladiators, always a tricky and tough team to play whether you're home or away. This was a real roughhouse shithouse victory for Dinamo right there, not helped by the fact that Macaresti's defense this season has been a thing of beauty (never mind that they're on the wrong end of the PGSL table). Keeping Dinamo to only 13 points in this game was most definitely an achievement for the Macaresti defense. The only problem is that the Macaresti offense didn't score more than that. In other news, both CSKA Tiraspol and Bratsk Dolphins won their respective games this week so I have nothing to complain about, really!

MATCHDAY EIGHT

Kesselburger Kestrels    0  7  0  0  7
Macaresti Gladiators     0  0  0  0  0

Rheinburg Spartans       7  0  0  7  14
Dinamo Bender            0  0  0  3  3

Vladikrav Red Death      0  7  3  3  13
CSKA Tiraspol            3  7  3  7  20

Antakya Hawks            0  0  0  0  0
Novonikolaysk Sharks     0  3  0  3  6

Sheriff Tiraspol         3  7  7  7  24
Yeralenko Torpedoes      0  0  0  0  0

Bratsk Dolphins         10  6  3  7  26
Admiral Novorossiysk     3  0  3  3  9

And Dinamo Bender have gone back to losing ways. It must suck to be a Dinamo fan right now, always losing games and then getting your hopes up when your team finally wins, only to see that hope smashed to bits and pieces by yet another heartbreaking loss (not that I would know the feeling; no, no, I really wouldn't). At least they finally know the feeling of the rest of the PGSL; this time they know the feeling of not always being on top of the league. Good for them. Don't let all that immediate success get into your head, Dinamo fans, because there will be times that you will be on the wrong side of the results. Sorry, didn't mean to go on a rant right there, but those were some things I just needed to get off my chest. I guess I could say the same thing to CSKA fans, only reversed: there will come a time when CSKA will be successful in gridiron. And, as of Week 8, that time looks to be right now. Oh, and one more thing: up the Spartans!

MATCHDAY NINE

Admiral Novorossiysk     3  7 10  0  20
Kesselburger Kestrels    0  7  3  7  17

Yeralenko Torpedoes      3 13  3  7  26
Bratsk Dolphins          0  3  0  0  3

Novonikolaysk Sharks     0  0  7  0  7
Sheriff Tiraspol         0  0  0  0  0

CSKA Tiraspol            0  7  0  0 0 7
Antakya Hawks            0  0  0  7 6 13

Dinamo Bender            7  3  7 10  27
Vladikrav Red Death     10  7  0  7  24

Macaresti Gladiators     0  0  0  0  0
Rheinburg Spartans       7 13  7  3  30

What did I say about things not lasting long and hope getting crushed, eh? CSKA fans definitely have a lot of experience with that sort of thing, and it's inevitable that this phenomenon was going to rear its ugly head as soon as we CSKA fans began giving Dinamo stick for their losing run. Poetic justice, I think it's called. Dinamo finally got their third win of the season against the division's newest member, the Vladikrav Red Death, with Yevgeniy Goncharovsky scoring the game-winning field goal. Meanwhile, CSKA lost (lost!) to Antakya Hawks, and Din Goyal finally cemented his place as an Antakya legend with a touchdown pass to Valerian Hynes in overtime to seal victory over the Army Team. I guess we CSKA fans really should have seen this coming, but once again our blind faith to our team has, well, blinded us to the fact that CSKA could very well cock up what should on paper be a very winnable game for them. And so it has happened. Never underestimate CSKA Tiraspol's ability to mess up an absolutely perfect situation, folks; that's the moral lesson of our recap of Week 9!

PGSL Table After Matchday Nine

   PGSL                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD
 1 CSKA Tiraspol            9    7   2   187  130  +57
 2 Rheinburg Spartans       9    7   2   164  107  +57
 3 Sheriff Tiraspol         9    6   3    94   61  +33
 4 Admiral Novorossiysk     9    6   3   149  123  +26
 5 Yeralenko Torpedoes      9    6   3   138  141   −3
 6 Novonikolaysk Sharks     9    5   4   121  133  −12
 7 Bratsk Dolphins          9    4   5   153  141  +12
 8 Antakya Hawks            9    3   6   115  115    0
 9 Macaresti Gladiators     9    3   6   116  131  −15
10 Dinamo Bender            9    3   6   115  135  −20
11 Vladikrav Red Death      9    2   7   103  152  −49
12 Kesselburger Kestrels    9    2   7    87  173  −86

And thus is the state of the Pridnestrovian Gridiron Super League after nine weeks of play. CSKA Tiraspol and Rheinburg Spartans are currently battling for top spot and the regular season championship, with CSKA currently holding the advantage over the Spartans thanks to their head-to-head result. Sheriff Tiraspol and Admiral Novorossiysk, teams very much familiar to those who follow Pridnestrovian sports, fill out the rest of the top four, while defending champions Dinamo Bender are sitting in a lowly tenth place with only three wins to their name. If Dinamo intends to defend their championship then I really suggest that they get back to winning ways immediately, although I do hope they lose once again to CSKA in the Derby of All Derbies.

WORLD BOWL BONUS! Pridnestrovia at the World Bowl Recap

South Covello    0  0  7  0  7
Pridnestrovia    0  0  7  7  14

Pridnestrovia    0  0  3  7  10
Holy Marsh       0  0  7  0  7

Pambudia         7  0  0  3  10
Pridnestrovia    7  7 14  6  33

And before I leave all of you lovely folks, let's take a little look at how Pridnestrovia has done in the World Bowl, which is currently going on right now. The Red Army actually squeezed out a few victories in their third and fourth games in the group stage, most notably against South Covello, the nation formerly known as Gregoryisgodistan. That was, like Dinamo's win against Macaresti (as mentioned above) a roughhouse win, with both defenses dominating the first half of the game until they both inevitably tired out and allowed the offense to finally get some points on the board. In this kind of game though, it's often the team that finds a way to score despite the toughness of the defense in front of them that wins, and on this occasion it was Pridnestrovia who found a way, kind of like life, as I heard from a movie once. In the fourth quarter, with the ball on the nine-yard line and on 3rd and 10, facing a stiff and so far unbending defense, Stan "The Man" Serban called for play action and got the time he needed to find Gerald Svango in the end zone to ensure that Pridnestrovia would remain undefeated in three games.

The next game against Holy Marsh was not as hard on both offense and defense as the game against South Covello, but the tiredness that both platoons had acquired playing against South Covello affected the Pridnestrovian players, meaning that they were unable to connect on crucial passes or convert into first downs in the first half, something that almost came back to haunt them as Holy Marsh managed to score a touchdown on their first drive in the third quarter. But Stan the Man began to work his magic in the latter half of the third quarter, setting the stage for the Pridnestrovian comeback with a field goal to close out the third quarter before connecting with Valentyn Sevyk in the fourth quarter to seal the victory for the Red Army. This allowed the team to let loose against Pambudia, dumping 33 points against our hapless opposition and paving the way for our unopposed conquest of the top of Group E, where we stand firmly perched with a 5-0 win-loss record. Five wins and no losses. Not a bad first half of the group stage for Pridnestrovia, if you ask me.

And that does it for me for this part of my Season 3 recap of the PGSL. As always, the next part will be up on my blog as soon as it is finished, and if we are lucky, we might get to look at some more games from PGSL teams in the 2nd Champions' Bowl. That's going to make for a very interesting journey. And with that, friends, comrades, and fellow fans in gridiron, До свидания.

[Ko-oren]

World Bowl 36/XXXVI @ Ko-oren
MD6 Scores

Group A
Kytler Peninsula 0–21 Ko-oren
Skundi 9–14 Main Nation Ministry
Xanneria 16–6 Equestrian States

Group A                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Ko-oren                       6    6   0   111   36  +75
2 Main Nation Ministry          6    5   1   184   83 +101
3 Equestrian States             6    3   3    75  100  −25
4 Kytler Peninsula              6    2   4    43   91  −48
5 Xanneria                      6    2   4    78  118  −40
6 Skundi                        6    0   6    38  101  −63

Group B
Castleon 3–16 Velstrania
North Quadana 3–23 Cosumar
Saint Dennis 3–17 Northwest Kalactin

Group B                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Cosumar                       6    5   1   125   39  +86
2 Velstrania                    6    5   1   105   35  +70
3 Northwest Kalactin            6    3   3    81   33  +48
4 Saint Dennis                  6    3   3    56   63   −7
5 Castleon                      6    2   4    68  135  −67
6 North Quadana                 6    0   6    13  143 −130

Group C
Micronistan 7–31 Drawkland
Krytenia 0–17 Abanhfleft
Ranoria 0–0 Lisander (6–3 OT)

Group C                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Ranoria                       6    5   1    57   40  +17
2 Drawkland                     6    5   1   142   49  +93
3 Abanhfleft                    6    4   2   123   59  +64
4 Lisander                      6    3   3    75   59  +16
5 Micronistan                   6    1   5    40  131  −91
6 Krytenia                      6    0   6    31  130  −99

Group D
A Rosa 3–30 Allamunnic States
Monarch Republic 0–0 Alpine Union (7–0 OT)
New England 13–0 Velestria

Group D                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 New England                   6    5   1   157   66  +91
2 Allamunnic States             6    4   2   113   39  +74
3 Alpine Union                  6    4   2    31   34   −3
4 Monarch Republic              6    3   3    59   98  −39
5 Velestria                     6    2   4    55   83  −28
6 A Rosa                        6    0   6    59  154  −95

Group E
Bendicion 8–12 Pridnestrovia
Pambudia 6–26 Royal Kingdom of Quebec
Holy Marsh 3–21 South Covello

Group E                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Pridnestrovia                 6    6   0   144   76  +68
2 Royal Kingdom of Quebec       6    5   1   176   59 +117
3 South Covello                 6    4   2   104   51  +53
4 Holy Marsh                    6    2   4    99  115  −16
5 Pambudia                      6    1   5    49  143  −94
6 Bendicion                     6    0   6    52  180 −128

Group F
One Jamaica 7–0 Taeshan
Frenline Delpha 10–18 Vangaziland
Monsa 7–43 Banija

Group F                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Banija                        6    5   1   164   67  +97
2 Vangaziland                   6    5   1   125   60  +65
3 Taeshan                       6    4   2   108   44  +64
4 Monsa                         6    2   4    67  146  −79
5 One Jamaica                   6    2   4    40   90  −50
6 Frenline Delpha               6    0   6    37  134  −97

Group G
Seraxinbourgh 17–12 Free Republics
Qingland 7–16 Newmanistan
The Greater Nordics 17–14 Jebslund

Group G                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Free Republics                6    5   1   188   70 +118
2 Newmanistan                   6    5   1   157  102  +55
3 The Greater Nordics           6    4   2   119   79  +40
4 Jebslund                      6    2   4   127  137  −10
5 Seraxinbourgh                 6    2   4    80  149  −69
6 Qingland                      6    0   6    26  160 −134

[Ko-oren]

Fourth shutout

Hedgecock started only his second game for the Dragonflies, but again stated his intent on becoming the sole starter at quarterback. He's played in the 17-0 victory over the Equestrian States on day 3, and now also started the sixth game, a 21-0 victory over the Kytler Peninsula. If you ever thought that the offence doesn't play a big role in the performance of the defence, these are two games to watch.

Apart from the ongoing rotation at quarterback, we have to address the amazing display by the defence. Only a handful of teams have conceded between 30 and 40 points, and out of those six, three are from low-scoring Group B. The rest are Ko-oren, the Allamunnic States, and the Alpine Union (the latter two, somehow, are second in third in their group). As said, the offence's slow drives played a part in this, and special teams have provided great field position as always, but the defence has not given up more than 50 yards on any one Kytler drive. From the run-stopping line with Karentathen, Verian and Aldridge, to four sacks by outside linebackers Merivan and Darknoll, as well as great reading of the offence by the inside linebackers Emerson and yDaemchaed, Ko-oren possesses a shutdown front seven that poses matchup problems to any team. And that's not even mentioning the secondary, who forced a fumble on a reception, as well as two interceptions, and were a huge part in the horrible stat line recorded by the Kytler QB. Their signalcaller went 10/24 on the day for a completion percentage under 50%, with two INTs and no TDs. The first interception was by Eisenman, who drifted towards one vertical route, then took overtop coverage on another route, playing the QB and baiting him into throwing it right into his hands. The second interception came in the third quarter, where a dodgy low throw ended up with cornerback Aemino, where maybe only a high throw to the post could've given a first down there. Aemino returned it for 20 yards, giving Hedgecock only 33 yards to go for a touchdown - which came after 10 plays on a 3-yard throw to Cazal.

Slowly, the tight ends have made their way into the offence again, with Hedgecock who thrives in 12 personnel with four players running routes, the fifth one either threatening to run the ball, or blocking immediately on the snap. The seven-man receiving corps shared snaps, and Hedgecock finished the day completing 33/40 for two TDs, zero INTs, to nine different players: two tight ends, two backs, and five wide receivers. He got close to eleven, but neither FB Svenszoon nor WR Varafin came up with a catch on the final drive, and both skill players ended up with zero catches on one target. The drive stalled for a punt, and the defence kept Kytler on their own half to close out the game.

All in all, it was a textbook performance and the victory never really looked in contention. De Croon will start his third game in Ko-oren's overall seventh, back to the dual-threat clock-controlling offence that is another one of the Dragonflies' favourite things to abuse. No matter what players start in offence, as long as the defence keeps doing what it is doing right now, the Dragonflies will be able to keep close to any team.

Day seven will likely see the first few teams eliminated from the competition: Qingland, Frenline Delpha, Bendicion, A Rosa, Krytenia, North Quadana, and Skundi all might find out they can't qualify for the final 16 already. Every single group has a team that's still winless.

On the other side, there's about three teams per group that look like true contenders to qualify for the next round. 13 teams have either 5 or 6 victories on 6 games, so those would be the favourites to win the title. It's a pretty deep field if as many as 13 teams have a chance, so probably a few of those will drop off in the second half of the group stage.

[Newmanistan]

THE ROCKET REPORT

SHOWDOWN LOOMS AFTER WIN AND AN UPSET

by Taylor Larson,

For a little while, it looked like the Rockets might be the Group G team heading to a frustrating defeat. Eventually, Newmanistan figured it out, defeating Qingland by the score of 16-7. Then, they found out that Free Republics had fallen victim to a shocking 17-12 loss at the hands of Seraxinbourgh. These results mean that the Rockets and the Republicans are all tied at 5-1 in the standings, setting up a pretty big showdown in the upcoming match.

Before Newmanistan could think about that, however, there was the matter of defeating Qingland. When they meant in the opener, Newmanistan won, but was never able to find the end zone. Thankfully, Michael Krizman was a perfect 6-for-6, accounting for all 18 of the Rockets points. The rematch was heading that way again. After a scoreless first quarter, Newmanistan moved the ball a little better in the second, but still needed to settle for Krizman field goals. Michael hit from 42 and 56, the latter of which being his longest of the current World Bowl. While the Rockets felt as though they might head to the intermission with the lead, they allowed Qingland to go execute a flawless two minute drill that ended up in the end zone. At the break, it was Qingland 7, Newmanistan 6.

In the second half, Newmanistan did respond with a drive that went 77 yards, but it needed to go 80. Despite being tempted to go for 4-and-goal from the 3, Marvin Dineen was wide enough to know that a three put the sky blue back in front. Krizman delivered, and it was 9-7, Rockets. That’s how it would stay, as Cameron Hall struggled to have any sort of success on the ground, and Alex Nelligan was off target with his passes. The defense was holding Qingland, though, but the game was nerve wracking for our fans. Midway through the fourth quarter, Qingland was able to get across midfield, and made it to the Newmanistan 29. That is as far as they would get, but the kicker lined up to put his team in front. Somehow, luck would find its way for the Rockets again, as Qingland botched the snap. The kicker struggled to retrieve the ball, and it would end up in the hands of Newmanistan’s Perry Hughson. Once in possession, there was no one who could stop him, and Hughson took it the distance for the touchdown. Qingland could never recover, and in the end, Newmanistan gets a 16-7 win, with an effort that in this group, probably only beats Qingland. At least they won, unlike Free Republics. When all is said and done, today ends with Newmanistan now being in position to take the group lead with a win in their next match. Although they must be much, much, much better then they were today.

[Main Nation Ministry]

Demiurge: Morning Coffee
Ms. Chervo woke up in her own greenhouse in the middle of her desert home to see that she was tied up in a chair. She remembers being knocked out with what she believed to be her own coffee pot, while she was out getting the paper. In front of her was a blue-haired woman looking through her agenda, while holding a pistol with a silencer. "Excuse me, are you here to rob me? There is some money behind the kittens on my shelf. I can show you, if you just let me go." Ms. Chervo said, where the woman responded by putting a bullet in her head.

The Demiurge wasn't having a good day. The Don was supposed to take the bait, but he simply thought of it as a sick joke. Now, the comic could easily fall into the wrong hands and ruin everything. She made sure to erase the vlog from that guy she killed back in the Fishburger. She gotten rid of the man back at the motel was set on fire to make it look like an insurance fraud scam gone wrong. She silenced that food critic who tried to look into the Fishburger into their own hands. Now, she killed the woman, knowing that she didn't have the comic. The Demiurge untied the woman, as she left her on the floor of the greenhouse.

The Don known as Franco gotten rid of the comic book somehow. Her trap wasn't working at all. She needed to make sure everything fell into place.

"We don't need to smoke. Both of us are still young on the inside. The crap that gets in our lungs will make us old. Come, it's best to avoid these fellas here."

"Keller? What's wrong?"
"Don't upset her! Don't you realize what had happened?"
"Oh dear, I'm sorry, Mrs. Harrington! Look, maybe I can take her outside? I have a bag of marbles she can-"
"She's too old for that nonsense! Mary, you're fired!"

"Why are we killing them?"
"Jones, look around you! These people that we're killing are traitors! To our nation! Get a knife and help me start cutting. Welcome to being a general, Jones!"

Dereliction: Past Lives:

Emmanuel Jones visited the Leader in his office, where he found him in a terrible mood. The Leader was pacing around the office, visibly distressed where Jones can see in his eyes, he was in terrible grief. "Leader? Is something wrong?" Jones asked where the Leader briefly regained his composure, acting like nothing had happened. "Jones? What do you want? Aren't you supposed to be busy maintaining what's happening at the forest sector?" The Leader said. "Leader? Is something wrong?" Jones asked concerned. "What's wrong? I'm having things from my past catch up to me. It's making things a bitch for me and it's making my mind fuzzy."
"Leader, I know you are upset, but have you tried to use an amnestic? That's usually your solution, whenever you want to-"
"Wait!? When did I use amnestics?!" The Leader suddenly snapped, where Jones immediately backed away. "Look, I know what you're in a bad mood, but that's what you usually do. I understand whatever it is that you're going through, but I'm just here to report on the sources for this matchday."
"I already know the scores! Now, get out of my office before I restraint you for information!" the Leader demanded, as Jones immediately left.

Later that night, Jones was at the central park near Victory Square, where he got out his cell-phone, sitting next to the fountain to try to call someone. "Hello? Is this Mr. Starr? Look, I'm just calling, because I know it been years, but I want to know years since after the accident, but I want you to-"
"..."
"Look, I know about the accident already. And what happened with Daisy. But, I just want to know where she is after the accident."
"..."
"I know you're still pissed.."
"..."
"And yes, I know I didn't arrive at that scruplting class once. I upsetted her once, but I never wanted to upset after that."
"..."
"At Forest Sector 34? Alright. Thanks. I give some flowers for her."
"..."
"And I will make sure it will be dahlias."

Agent Dragon: The Nightmare:

Shell and Keller gotten on the next train, as it was heading towards Pandustic. Both of them gotten a seating booth, where they can rest while the train was heading towards Pandustic. "How many people did you kill during your time as an agent?" Keller asked Shell, where he reacted annoyed. "Does that honestly matter? I been here starting the 5th grade. That was why I had an easy time getting rid of that thug who would have probably killed you with that piece of driftwood." "Look, he would have given us the location of the Don. He probably is in some random secret stronghold in the middle of this desert." Keller reasoned with Shell, where he didn't look convinced. "Dragon, you're a recruit and all, but I have been an agent for years. This is literally your third day with me." Shell said.

Later that night, Shell came back with some mints that he managed to get from the dining car that was supposed to be for after dinner. "Want a mint?" he said to Keller. "I'm trying to figure out what Azerty has to do with this." Keller said, popping a mint in her mouth. "Well, maybe there is some sort of secret society out there or maybe it's based on real events? We have little clues so far, but we have tons of intel. Your best bet is to get ready for Pandustic tomorrow, when the train arrives at the station. Now, turn off that light. It's getting late. But let me.." Shell said, a smile on his face, as he started to tamper with the door of the booth. "What are you doing?" "I'm putting my phone to call a loud noise when someone attempts to open the door. They ain't any assassins here, but just for good measure." Shell said, putting the phone at the door.

As Shell was sleeping at his seat in the booth, Keller opened the window in their booth and stared out of the window as the train went pass the landscape. She was far from home, of course. Yet, she was doing this for a mission. The grassy terrain was starting to turn sandy, as they were moving away from where the nation of Main Nation Ministry was. It was a new world out there. Keller closed the window and crossed back of her arms, as she tried to close her eyes. She felt somewhat warm, despite the cold being in the room. She felt a presence of someone sitting next to her. Not Shell, but someone that seemed to be in the same position as Keller. She couldn't describe it. It was like an invisible doppelganger mimicking her movements. As she drifted to sleep, she had a nightmare.

She was inside a dark room, where all of the color seemed to have vanished, making things look like a black and white film. There were several candles around the room, illuminating her from the darkness around it. There was another light, but it was coming from beyond a door that was in front of her. As Keller approached it, something from behind the door gave it a loud pound. The door shook, which Keller nearly jumped back. She can hear a voice from beyond that almost spoke in her own ear. "Let me out! I know what you have been doing! I was so close! I want to be free again! I wanted to be the one under control! But you? You're different. Your gears that you grind ain't letting me wear you as a suit. I just want you to open the door, so I can get into your mind. So I can be free again!"

"No! I think I know who you are! You're the parasite that was controlling Richard!"
"Richard? The boy was weak. As a vessel, he didn't allow me to give power. I was happy to get a good chuck of flesh from that man. To have the fluid of his eyeballs stained onto the boy's hands."
"I'm not letting you control me!"
"I'm trying to learn about you. Both of us are like people who feel alienated by this society. We feel like the antagonists of this story. But we're not. You know that. Why can't we give them what they want, while doing what we do best. This need for blood is not like you. You need this power that I can grant. I can help you. I do not wish to make you into a puppet, per say. I want both of us to be wearing the same costume."
"No!" Keller ran up to the door, where she tried to push the door, but she started to feel burns on her hands. Her own hands were on fire. She can feel the pain. "Come on, let me heal you! You don't need the perfect life, because I know how to help you obtain it! You want something more! Just open this door to your mind and let me be free!"

---

"No!" Keller screamed, as she was stuck in her own nightmare. "Dragon? What's wrong? Get a hold of yourself for once!" Shell was trying to wake up Keller by shaking her, where she began to slowly wake up. She looked distressed at what she was dreaming and hugged Shell. "I don't do hugs, calm down." Shell said, as Keller wanted to cry, but she refused. "I had a bad dream. It was...horrible." Keller said, where she thought of Shell as Richard for a moment, before brushing it off. "Jeez, I don't even have bad dreams. Did that mint fill you with sugar?" "No, it's not that. You see..They injected me with this "parasite" that was originally in someone I would say around your age. This parasite that's in me is supposed to make me a vessel almost." Keller tried to explain, but Shell barely had any idea of what she was talking about.

"Agent Dragon? Look, I checked your results back at training. You have potential, alright? I know I'm pressuring you, but I'm making sure you don't have a meltdown or nervous breakdown. I don't know anything about a parasite in you, but you need to focus. Alright?" Shell said. "Now, get some damn rest. It's like 3AM right now, so get back to sleep. Try to dream whatever people like you dream up."
"Like what?"
"I don't know? Dolphins? Something that you like?" Shell said, trying to go back to sleep. Keller looked back outside the window and tried to go back to sleep. She didn't have any dreams that remainder of hours as she was scared from dreaming up them. Would that parasite that's in her be released, so it can control her body? She couldn't let that fear be in her mind. She needed to get ready for tomorrow.

[Ko-oren]

World Bowl 36/XXXVI @ Ko-oren
MD7 Scores

Group A
Xanneria 0–13 Kytler Peninsula
Equestrian States 29–14 Skundi
Main Nation Ministry 20–13 Ko-oren

Group A                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Main Nation Ministry          7    6   1   204   96 +108
2 Ko-oren                       7    6   1   124   56  +68
3 Equestrian States             7    4   3   104  114  −10
4 Kytler Peninsula              7    3   4    56   91  −35
5 Xanneria                      7    2   5    78  131  −53
6 Skundi                        7    0   7    52  130  −78

Group B
Saint Dennis 16–24 Castleon
Northwest Kalactin 35–7 North Quadana
Cosumar 37–28 Velstrania

Group B                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Cosumar                       7    6   1   162   67  +95
2 Velstrania                    7    5   2   133   72  +61
3 Northwest Kalactin            7    4   3   116   40  +76
4 Castleon                      7    3   4    92  151  −59
5 Saint Dennis                  7    3   4    72   87  −15
6 North Quadana                 7    0   7    20  178 −158

Group C
Ranoria 13–0 Micronistan
Lisander 44–0 Krytenia
Abanhfleft 13–3 Drawkland

Group C                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Ranoria                       7    6   1    70   40  +30
2 Drawkland                     7    5   2   145   62  +83
3 Abanhfleft                    7    5   2   136   62  +74
4 Lisander                      7    4   3   119   59  +60
5 Micronistan                   7    1   6    40  144 −104
6 Krytenia                      7    0   7    31  174 −143

Group D
New England 10–10 A Rosa (10–17 OT)
Velestria 27–0 Monarch Republic
Alpine Union 6–0 Allamunnic States

Group D                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Alpine Union                  7    5   2    37   34   +3
2 New England                   7    5   2   167   83  +84
3 Allamunnic States             7    4   3   113   45  +68
4 Velestria                     7    3   4    82   83   −1
5 Monarch Republic              7    3   4    59  125  −66
6 A Rosa                        7    1   6    76  164  −88

Group E
Holy Marsh 67–6 Bendicion
South Covello 13–17 Pambudia
Royal Kingdom of Quebec 26–36 Pridnestrovia

Group E                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Pridnestrovia                 7    7   0   180  102  +78
2 Royal Kingdom of Quebec       7    5   2   202   95 +107
3 South Covello                 7    4   3   117   68  +49
4 Holy Marsh                    7    3   4   166  121  +45
5 Pambudia                      7    2   5    66  156  −90
6 Bendicion                     7    0   7    58  247 −189

Group F
Monsa 10–10 One Jamaica (16–10 OT)
Banija 19–3 Frenline Delpha
Vangaziland 20–40 Taeshan

Group F                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Banija                        7    6   1   183   70 +113
2 Taeshan                       7    5   2   148   64  +84
3 Vangaziland                   7    5   2   145  100  +45
4 Monsa                         7    3   4    83  156  −73
5 One Jamaica                   7    2   5    50  106  −56
6 Frenline Delpha               7    0   7    40  153 −113

Group G
The Greater Nordics 14–6 Seraxinbourgh
Jebslund 43–13 Qingland
Newmanistan 20–22 Free Republics

Group G                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Free Republics                7    6   1   210   90 +120
2 Newmanistan                   7    5   2   177  124  +53
3 The Greater Nordics           7    5   2   133   85  +48
4 Jebslund                      7    3   4   170  150  +20
5 Seraxinbourgh                 7    2   5    86  163  −77
6 Qingland                      7    0   7    39  203 −164

[Newmanistan]

THE ROCKET REPORT

THAT ONE MISS

by Brianne Henry,

Michael Krizman has been the most consistent producer for the Rockets now for about three World Bowls. In particular, World Bowl 36 has seen him be called out onto the field time and time again to hit field goal after field goal, and not once has he missed during this entire campaign. Impeccable consistency, but in the Norwoodian book of kickers, all one will remember is that one big kick you missed. For Michael Krizman, the post game questions following Newmanistan’s 22-20 loss to Free Republics were consistent as well. “What went wrong?”

Things looked pretty good for Newmanistan early. Remember, this is a team that lost by 31 points to Free Republics earlier in the group stage. They were competitive for most of the game, but even in that, the offense was never able to get the ball into the end zone. After the Republics saw their opening drive end in a 32-yard FG by 32-year old Takehiko Susui, Newmanistan went 80 yards down field in 12 plays, culminating in a 5-yard by Cameron Hall. Alex Nelligan was 5-for-6 on the drive, and the Rockets were up 7-3. The second drive for Free Republics went much like their first drive, although this saw what could been a 52-yard TD reception by Wang Pan be called back for offensive holding on Tenyuu Bouzuki. This had to be a frustrating call for coach Katakin Maier since the hold really didn’t impact the play all that much. Still, holding is holding. The Republicans moved the ball down field a little more, but settled for a 41 yard field goal from Susui.

Into the second quarter, Newmanistan’s offense was moving the ball well, but as we have seen all too often with this team, they were stymied when they got closer to the end zone. Still, Krizman had two field goals in the quarter, the only such scoring, and Newmanistan led at the half, 13-6.

The second half saw the Free Republics be able to make adjustments, and they were able to hold Newmanistan without a first down on their first two drives. Meanwhile, a 13-yard run by Park Han tied the game up midway through the quarter. They would take the lead soon after, on a TD pass from young Dania Sandberg to the older Zack Parkes for their next score, but for the third time in the World Bowl, Newmanistan blocked an extra point. This potentially loomed big as the Free Republics advantage would only be 19-13, which is where we were after three.

Newmanistan responded well, and finally put together another touchdown drive, an 83-yard drive that ended with Alex Nelligan finding Drew Oliveras in the end zone from 15 yards, giving the Rockets a 20-19 lead. The young Sandberg led her team on a strong drive herself, as the Republicans went 74 yards, though needed to go 80. With 1:45 now left on the clock, they brought out Susui for the field goal, which would be hit, and now with a 22-20 lead, they could hope that their defense would hold on.

Chris Culver returned the ensuing kick to the Free Republics 25, and with 1:26 left in the game, the Rockets were in business. After an incompletion, Nelligan connected with Clyde Sanders for 16 yards, though he was not able to get out of bounds, meaning Newmanistan had to use one of their two time outs that they still had. A couple longer attempts downfield were defended well, but through trial and tribulation, and two 3rd and long conversions along the way, the Rockets got the ball to the Free Republics 30 with :04 left, and called their final timeout. Katakin Maier then used hers to ice Krizman, but why would it matter. This was from 48 yards, Krizman has been perfect all World Bowl. There was no way you could ice him.

The snap was perfect.

The hold was perfect.

The kick? A couple inches wide right.

Now, like all of Newmanistan is wondering. “Noo!! Michael Krizman! He misssssed. Michael Krizman, how could yooou doooo thhhattt?!!”

[Northwest Kalactin]

The kalactanians amazing football association has been put back in charge of all Kalactanian football after taking charge from the KIFA

[Banija]

Banija approaches remaining group stage schedule within spitting distance of the World Bowl Knockout Stages


Banijan defense celebrating a turnover against One Jamaica

EAGLEBURY, KO-OREN- The Serpent Eagles have come out strong in the second half of World Bowl XXXVI. A strong team all tournament, they have had a mission in mind- bring respectability back to the national gridiron. After the glory days of World Bowls 29-31, where the team made three straight World Bowl semifinals en route to three consecutive fourth place finishes in the sport's greatest tournament, this team has been in the wilderness. They didn't even enter World Bowl XXXII or World Bowl XXXIII, both hosted in Bongo Johnson. They returned in World Bowl XXXIV, but fell flat, falling in the group stages. That was repeated in World Bowl XXXV, as it had now been so many years since the Banijans had tasted the knockout stages of this grand tournament.

They have come in like a man on a mission in this tournament- they are not here to mess around. They are here to bring respect back to the national gridiron team, and re-establish themselves on the multiversal stage as contenders for a championship. The talent is clearly there- Banija's pair of NSCF programs, Northern Moravica University and the University of Loyola-Istria, have been at the top of that competition for years. And not to mention Banija's trio of semifinal appearances, all those tournaments ago. They weren't taking advantage. But Alastair Jobs came in here for this tournament with a special focus, and the team has largely been locked in, mentally, ever since they arrived in Ko-oren for World Bowl XXXVI.

They came out firing in this tournament, putting up 40+ points in each of their first two games, which were blowout victories over Monsa and Frenline Delpha, respectively. Things could have really gotten off track for this team, however, when they were brought back down to Earth in week 3, when Taeshan absolutely trashed the Banijans, by a score of 33-3. Their confidence could have been lost, they could have folded and ran home, with their tails between their legs. But it is a credit to their mental fortitude, the maturity of their players and the excellence of the coaching staff, that they didn't. They went toe to toe with Vangaziland in the next game, and won a long, evenly fought battle, slaying the Royals in double overtime by a score of 18-10. They beat One Jamaica then in Week 5, and then their offense rediscovered their swagger in week 6, scoring six touchdowns in their 43-7 victory over Monsa- even if they were brought back down to Earth in their latest victory over Frenline Delpha.

This leaves the Banijans at 6-1, and surprisingly, thanks mostly to a shock 7-0 upset for One Jamaica over Taeshan, in sole possession of first place with three games left. Now, of course, these three games include the toughest two teams in the group, the top two teams by ranking- Taeshan, who is #4 in the world rankings, and Vangaziland, who is #16. One of those teams beat the Banijans by 30 here on a neutral field the first time around, while the other fought Banija in one of the tournament's most evenly played games so far, where the Banijans eventually separated themselves in the second overtime. Taeshan and Vangaziland, of course, are both 5-2. Taeshan has lost to Vangaziland and One Jamaica, while Vangaziland have one loss to both Banija and Taeshan.

Here, we're going to look at a couple of various scenarios for Banija to clinch a berth in the knockout stages. Of course, the top two in each group automatically earn a berth in the knockout stages, while the top two 3rd place teams, out of the seven 3rd place teams from the seven groups, will take the last two knockout berths.

*= All scenarios assume that both Taeshan and Vangaziland will win both of their non-Banijan matchups.

Scenario #1 - Banija split the matchups with Taeshan & Vangaziland, while beating One Jamaica in Week 10
Verdict: Automatic Playoff Berth

This is the simplest, and most straightforward scenario. Don't have to deal with tiebreakers or anything of the like- win and you're in. No matter results anywhere else, this is one thing that the Banijans know now- if they win two of their next three games, they will be in one of Group F's two automatic qualifying spots, as one of the top two teams in the group based on record. Why? Because if they won two of their next 3, they'd finish 8-2, while at least one of Vangaziland or Taeshan would have three loses, meaning that the Banijans would be at least in second place in Group F.

Now, what are the chances of this happening? First is the matchup against Taeshan. While the offense has not looked the same since the first two weeks, besides the Week 6 blowout over Monsa, the defense has been vastly improved since their Week 3 matchup with Taeshan. In their four games since the last Taeshan matchup, in regulation, they have allowed 3 points, 3 points, seven points, and 3 points. That's a total of 16 points over their last 16 quarters of regular time- or four per game, or simply a measly garbage time touchdown that Monsa scored at the end of that Week 6 blowout. The defense can surely compete.

We're not sure, though, if the Serpent Eagles have the firepower to compete with a team like Taeshan, who were winners at World Bowl XXXIV, won at the old Stadium of the Restoration in our national capitol. The next game to look at, of course, would be Vangaziland. Banija were winners in the last one, but that was basically a coin toss, going to two overtimes. Banija and Vangaziland are evenly matched- who would win the rematch? It would be what kind of adjustments each coach would make from the last game, it'd be quite a chess match.

Scenario #2 - Win next Three Games
Verdict: Group F winners, Top 5 playoff seed

This is in here, as it is technically possible, but this is something that we consider the least likely scenario. The schedule is simply too tough to ask the Banijans to run the table here. Taeshan beat the Banijans by 30 points four weeks ago, and made us look like fools- teh chances of us beating them, and then beating a team that we're almost perfectly evenly matched against, and then beating the dragon slayers, One Jamaica, is something that we find improbable.

We're not going to discuss it much, but if this happened, then Banija would not only be a lock for the knockouts- they'd be announcing themselves as legitimate contenders to win it all. That'd mean finishing the group stages with 7 wins in a row, or getting heated at the right time. Is the offense good enough to do that? WE highly doubt it, and there is still a talent gap at this level that might take a little bit more time for the Banijans to close for us to get to that level.

Scenario #3- Lose next Three Games
Verdict: Eliminated

Considering we started 6-1, this would be an absolute catastrophe. We also consider this pretty unlikely, but finishing 6-1 after a 6-4 start would be an extremely disappointing way to finish the group stages, and there would likely be calls for the head of the coach, Alastair Jobs. It would be an utter embarrassment- all these Banijan fans, with all this hope, with all this smack talk, only to be brought hurtling back, down to Earth. While, of course, the Banijans have clinched at least a third place finish and technically be eligible for a spot in the knockouts, it would be a tall order, at 6-4, to be ranked in the top two of the seven third place teams. It would be possible for a 6-4 team to make it- however, it'd take quite a lot of luck, and at that rate, it'd likely end up in the Banijans getting blown out at the very first hurdle, against a team like Pridnestrovia.

Scenario #4- Winning one of the next Three Games
Verdict: Up in the Air

This scenario leaves the most questions. It's the only one where you can't be truly confident of where Banija would end up. This scenario, of course, would see the Banijans finish 7-3. What would happen? It depends who the lone win would be against. If the win was against Vangaziland, that would be the linchpin. That means both the Banijans and the Vannish would finish 7-3. However, a group stage sweep of Vangaziland, as their week 4 victory would be coupled with a week 9 victory in this scenario, would be enough to push the Banijans over the top as the first tiebreaker is head to head. That would put Taeshan as the group winners, Banija as the runners up, and Vangaziland would be heavy favorites to finish as one of the top two third place teams.

If the lone victory over the next three weeks was against Taeshan, that is the one that leaves the most questions in the air. In that scenario, you would see an 8-2 Vangaziland, a 7-3 Taeshan, and a 7-3 Banija. As Banija and Taeshan would have split the head to head in that scenario, it would come down to overall point differential to see who would get the automatic qualifying spot, and who would get thrown into the third place pool. Banija currently has an overall point differential of +113, while Taeshan's is +84. You would think, if this scenario saw Banija defeat Taeshan, that would place Banija at a significant advantage. However, Taeshan has shown ability all tournament to explode, and with Banijan offensive struggles, can they trust to maintain that advantage in such a scenario? You really wouldn't know what would happen until the very end of the day on Matchday 10.

The last scenario, and the most likely if they only win one, is that the Banijans lose to both Taeshan and Vangaziland, and then defeat One Jamaica in Week 10. The Banijans would be 7-3 in that scenario. They would certainly be in Third Place- Taeshan and Vangaziland would both be 8-2 in that scenario, and therefore would occupy both of the group's automatic qualifying spots. And then, of course, Banija would be at the mercy of the third place pool. Would they be able to muscle their way through it, and qualify for the knockouts through the last possible alley?

It's hard to say. We imagine that the third place teams will be somewhere between 5-5 and 7-3. A third place team that is 8-2 seems extremely unlikely, and same with one that is 4-6. 7-3, of course, would put Banija in the upper echelon of that 7-3 pool. How many would join them? Looking at the current group standings, there are two other groups where at least three teams have two or less losses- meaning that, in this scenario, there are likely to be three 7-3 third place squads vying for two spots. Banija would seem to be at an advantage- their present +113 point differential is second in this tournament to date, just short of the Free Republics, who have a point differential of +120. However, if they lost two of their next 3, depending on the scores, that point differential could tank. That is something we really wouldn't be able to project at this point in time.

There you go. The playoff scenarios for Banija. Our various paths back to the knockout stages, which would be our first knockout stage appearance at a World Bowl since World Bowl XXXI, or, of course, ratcheting up the national frustration by collapsing and failing to make the knockout stages entirely. Now you, the reader, know what's possible for this team. That's why this game against Taeshan is such a good test. Can the Banijans do what they need to do to take one giant step towards the knockout stages?

[Main Nation Ministry]

Dereliction: Old Wounds

Emmanuel Jones arrived at the training grounds, where he saw a familiar soldier who was now a colonel, who was trying to teach some recruits how to use a zipline and attempt to grab a plastic sculpture with their legs. "Well, hello General. How's the football team going?" Colonel Warrens asked where Jones smirked. "Came to visit, since it's nearing the anniversary of that time I got mauled by that bear and needed surgery for my heart. How's the others who were in the squad?" "Others? They went their separate ways. Early retirement and a bit further from conscription. Speaking of heart surgery, how's that organ doing? No problems?"
"The one they gave me at the battlefield is still kicking. Wished that they warned us about those direbears beforehand, before they managed to take out Bud."
"He said he was planning on doing the rural life by heading back to his old farm. Luckily, his sister Edna running the place now. Place is in need of money, though."

"Well, where's the rest of the squad members? I love to host a reunion at Jack's Bar. Hold a vigil, maybe. You're invited, of course." Jones said, where Warrens scratched his head. "Beats me. If you're having trouble, try to get Xavier Sorrento to help. He has a knack for finding people." "Anyone else that isn't a reality star who constantly saves face?" "Check the archives and they should give you some stuff." Warrens recommended. "See ya later, man." Jones said, leaving the training grounds and catching a cab.

Agent Dragon: Dog Day

The Sunny Sands bar at Pandustic wasn't the best bar in town. People there tend to get rowdy. And seeing how some of the Don's boys tend to creep around the place drinking spirits of champagne while wearing their tacky white tuxedos, others tend to avoid Sunny Sands for the obvious of reasons. Keller and Shell got out from the train, as they scouted the town. Keller wasn't used to seeing locations that weren't under the control of the nation. However, it looked like the town was struggling. Almost as if when it dies, the Ministry would obtain it, so there would be a new stretch of land to make itself a sector. "Should we ask that we're looking for a comic book?" Keller said, where he reminded her to keep quiet. "Don't ask suspicious. We need to act incognito. Keep to yourself. If people start staring, they might start following us. Which means it's time to get rid of them." Shell said, as they noticed some thugs outside of Sunny Sides bar. A man was getting beaten and was tossed to the ground, as the thugs looked on, laughing.

"Don't interrupt them. They might kill us." Shell warned Keller as they entered the bar, where one of the thugs took notice. Sitting at the bar, the bartender who was tending noticed the two, where he raised an eyebrow. "Aren't you two a bit young to get a drink?" he said, where Shell requested a cup of root beer, while Keller got herself a glass of water. "So explain why you're here. You're clearly not locals." "We're here to investigate a series of death that we believe is related towards a comic book back in Main Nation Ministry." Shell explained, where the bartender's face grew pale upon hearing the name of the nation. He took a step towards a small statue of a hound at the bar counter, rubbing it's head for good luck. "Look, are you here to do a raid on the Don? He practically runs this town." "He's currently a lead, so if it's possible, please tell him of his location." Shell said, as a thug entered the bar.

"Wait, please! We never meant to kill them! We're sorry! No! No-"
(Gunshot)

"Daddy, who is that man in the aviary? He's a statue that's attracting all of the butterflies."
"That there, sweetheart. Is the Leader. He's makes sure everything in this nation is in tip top shape."

"I know I look like a kid's doll, but I'm more than that, Jones. I do sculptures in my free time. Better than dolls."

The Familiar Stranger: The Lost Ones

The Leader made another visit to Daphne, where she was put in a different cell that was more livable than being behind bars. "So I'm starting to remember all about what happened. Is it true?" The Leader asked. "Well, I know they are now gone, but there is still some hope from where I came from."
"They are sending people inside the portal. They claiming that the inside is almost nearly uninhabitable. Some sort of hallway they claim."
"Hallway? Well, I can confirm. I wouldn't describe it as a hallway. It's more like a bridge. A covered bridge to be exact."
"What about the others?"
"They are in there. I can help, if you want." Daphne said, where the Leader wanted to bite another one of his nails again, however he didn't want to embarrass himself in front of Daphne. "Look. I know I have to cut it short, but I need to do something. I visit again tomorrow, ok? Make sure they don't give you any trouble." The Leader said, where he wished her goodbye.

After leaving the room, a scientist along with some soldiers blocked the Leader's path. "Could you move along, please? I need to be somewhere." The Leader said, where a soldier tried to let him pass, but the scientist next to him grabbed his shoulder. "I deeply apologize, Leader. But I'm a psychiatrist from the Northwest and I'm here to tell you that's we need to prevent your visits to process further testing of Jane Doe." the scientist said, where the Leader frowned. "She has a name, you know! Also, I don't see why you can't just test her while I'm gone." "Well, you see, Leader. This specimen is merely emotionally manipulating you. She's a memetic creature that focuses on memory. Seeing how most of the paranormal events almost related to rogue ideas, we can safety see that she's a threat to this nation." "I refuse, sir. And I recommend you not tried to be a hypocrite and not convinced my own men to block my path." The Leader said, where both men near the scientist immediately let the Leader pass, expect that the scientist tried to prevent him.

"I'm doing this to make sure that Dorbi Truman doesn't have to waste his time to claim that what you're doing is a matter of national security! You and your so-called female interest are just wasting my time, also! Why can't you just let us execute her, so we can save the paperwork?" the scientist said, where the Leader started to grow mad. "Excuse me, is it possible to borrow your gun just quick?" the Leader asked one of the soldiers that was previously blocking his path, where they immediately obeyed and saluted the Leader to make sure they were forgiven for almost doing treason. "What are you going to do? Threaten me? You don't have the guts." the scientist said, which were poor words. The shot rang out in the hallway, where the Leader returned the gun.

He immediately marched over to where they were planning on testing Daphne, where Steinberg was one of the scientists among the others. "Alright, who's in charge?!" The Leader demanded, where they asked whatever happened to the head scientist. "He's out of commission, if he's the head of this operation he's planning! You're all are to be reassigned back to Northwest! That's an order!" the Leader had all the scientists leave, where Steinberg tried to ask for an explanation. "Leader? What's going on? We were just planning on running basic tests. A more detailed physical examination." Steinberg said. "Listen here, I want Da- I mean Jane Doe released from testing! I'm planning on letting her out of containment!" The Leader demanded, where Steinberg looked nervous. "Leader. I.. Well.. I know this is a bad idea to ask you this, but.."

"You sure you want to let her out?" Steinberg asked.

"Look, I get what you want to do. I'm getting attracted. But, do you realize how much she has became important to me now? I known her, once. There is no mind control or memes involved. I'm just trying to reach out to her again, after so many years. Now, could you...please! Please, let her out. And don't bother to test my patience, because I can flay you for all I care! Not flog, flay. I want you to get the key and simply unlock the cell. Now I will give you a hour to decide and if I don't see you pick the obvious, I make sure you start begging on my knees! Do you understand?" The Leader said, where he threatened Steinberg.

In about 10 minutes later, Steinberg called the Leader back to Daphne's cell, where he held up a keycard. "I know I- Never mind. I'm sure there is a reasonable and simple solution by doing this." Steinberg said, nervously as he unlocked the door to her cell. Daphne looked surprised, as she stepped out of her temporary prison. She was actually free. For a little while, but she was free to be with him. The Leader smiled, knowing that Daphne was happy to be off the hook. With a smile as well, Daphne bent down and hugged the Leader. The lights in the room started to flicker, where Steinberg noticed that the light bulbs looked like they were about to be burned out. A second later, the anomaly subsided. Both the Leader and Daphne walked out of the room, where Steinberg showed a worried look on his face.

"Something's not right.."
"..."
"I need Truman for this." Steinberg thought.

[Ko-oren]

Dragonflies' Staff Announces Roster Moves

A long campaign is getting to a close, with just three group games left. After that, should the Dragonflies make it there, the schedule opens up a bit so teams have a few more days in between games. Health staff of all 42 teams are working overtime and then some to try to get their players back on the field with these crucial games coming up. The training staff of the Ko-orenite team has called for a slightly longer press conference than usual to clear up some of the confusion around some Dragonflies' abilities to play in these final group games.

Robbe de Croon, quarterback for the Schemerdrecht Admirals, has been relieved of starting duties. The remaining matchdays will see Sylvestre under centre twice, and Hedgecock once. In the knockouts, Hedgecock will start so both QBs get two starts, and everything after that will be on a day-to-day basis. The decision to pull De Croon from the starting lineup was two-fold: his style of play sees him take far more tackles than the other two QBs, but the combined strain from all of these hits means that De Croon is knocked around a bit too much to safely start again. At the same time, his results have been below expected, with two small victories over worse teams and a loss to the Main Nation Ministry. Ko-oren will continue on without the most mobile quarterback (or running back who occasionally throws).

Mees Mannussen, running back, also for the Admirals, will see far fewer snaps compared to the first seven games. The remaining snaps will be taken by Thorebourne and Zanonthen as usual, and fullback Svenszoon will be involved in the running game a little more as well. With this move and the De Croon move, Ko-oren will have a diminished running game, and the Admirals will also be looking into the status of their two biggest offensive weapons ahead of next season.

The receiving corps is also not without issues. Tight end Gwerud Pwlh suffers too much from his ankle problems, which started in the Xanneria game. He even took snaps in the following games, but seems to have aggravated the issue too much to continue on. Cazal and Tharadhen will fill in as normal. Lloyd Whitlock and El Crozier will receive limited snaps but aren't out. All three players are expected to come back before matchday 10.

On the offensive line, only backup left tackle Elisha Witvos has suffered an injury, and will not return for the rest of the World Bowl. He seems to be cursed when playing for his nation, as he also suffered a tournament-ending injury in World Bowl 35.

On the defensive side of the ball, there have been bigger problems. Simon Binnenpoorte and Erman Merivan both suffer from a knee injury and might make it back for the knockouts. Jon Mulders is due for a scan and we fear he might be out for months with a hamstring injury - the fourth Admiral to return from national team duties in worse health. These three injuries are on the front 7, while the entire secondary is still fine. There are also no reported injuries for the special teamers.

Elimination Scenarios - MD8 edition

With only three matchdays left, a few teams have been eliminated from the knockouts. Here's a short look at each group, and what might happen on MD8. Keep in mind that the group winners and runners-up will advance, along with the two best third-placed teams. At this moment, there are three teams placed third on 5-2 (Abanhfleft, Vangaziland, The Greater Nordics). The rest is 4-3.

Group A
Skundi is eliminated.

Xanneria is eliminated with a loss, or with two of the trio of Abanhfleft, Vangaziland and the Greater Nordics winning.

Ko-oren will advance with a win over the Equestrian States. Main Nation Ministry will advance with an EQS loss and a MNM win.

Group B
North Quadana is eliminated.

There are no other teams at risk of elimination.

Cosumar advances with a win and a Northwest Kalactin loss.

Group C
Krytenia and Micronistan are eliminated.

There are no further chances of elimination or qualification on wins.

Group D
A Rosa is eliminated.

There are no further chances of elimination or qualification on wins.

Group E
Bendicion is eliminated.

Pambudia is eliminated with a loss.

Pridnestrovia has qualified for the knockouts with a win or with a South Covello loss.

Group F
Frenline Delpha is eliminated.

One Jamaica is eliminated with a loss.

Monsa is eliminated with a loss and a Taeshan and a Vangaziland win.

Group G
Qingland is eliminated.

Seraxinbourgh is eliminated with a loss.

Jebslund is eliminated with a Jebslund loss and Newmanistan and Greater Nordics wins.

[Seraxinbourgh]

End of the Road?

Going for long on 3rd and 14

With only 3 games remaining for the 2-5 Blackbirds on their inaugural entry to the World Bowl, any defeats in their remaining games will seal the coffin and guarantee that Seraxinbourgh will not qualify for the playoffs. Along with that, in order to qualify for the playoffs Seraxinbourgh will need to hope that either Newmanistan or the Great Nordics tank through their last 3 games, Jebslund pick up at least 1 defeat and that they can snatch one of the 2 qualification places for teams who didn't come in the top 2 in their group - making this Mission Impossible for the boys in black and gold.

Though qualification to the playoffs is highly unlikely to be accomplished by Seraxinbourgh this time around, they can take some pride in how they have managed to pick up wins against Qingland and the table toppers in the Free Republics and how they should safely avoid finishing last, which brought fans back to their seats just in time for the second season of the Seraxinbourgh Premier Gridiron League.


Brandon the Blackbird prior to entering onto the field before the 14-6 defeat against the Great Nordics

And not to forgot that this experience was one for the photo books for all of the players involved.

[The Transmondian Commonwealth]

Scouts from around the Commonwealth were beginning to take notice of the World Bowl as New England's team had done better than expected. A guy from the Providence Privateers of Acadie had been in Greencaster since the beginning because the South Acadian Football League was one of the organizations sponsoring the World Bowl team. But other scouts were beginning to trickle in. Most of them were from the formerly American versions of New England, where football was more popular, and New England often had a single NFL team instead of a separate league. The separate leagues in versions of New England with a long history of independence were usually less competitive than the NFL, and most of them did not care enough to run huge scouting operations or get in bidding wars with NFL teams. There were a few exceptions. Teams in the Home States occasionally decided they absolutely NEEDED some player or other because they wanted to bring the best of everything home to their world.

The overtime loss to A Rosa left them wondering where was the amazing offense that they had been hearing about? There were rumors of tensions in the locker room, and maybe it was starting to spill onto the field.

Julius Ormond had blamed New England's one previous loss, against Alpine Union, on being asked to play alongside "Negroes, Mongols, and red savages." International Sports Network had not aired his interview because they thought it would offend too many viewers. The Backworld News had aired it, but their audience was smaller and more likely to be racist.

But needless to say, Ormond's coaches and teammates knew what he had said. Luke Wong, John Runningwater, and Xavier Freedman were understandably offended. Wong was not a Mongol. His ancestors had immigrated to New England from southern China, and he had a bit of a grudge against the Mongols about that whole Genghis Khan thing. Xavier Freedman was from a world where the word "negro" was still in widespread use, but he still didn't appreciate the insinuation that he didn't belong on the team. He hadn't seen a lot of time on the field, but when he was put in, he had played his hardest, and he had not fucked up any crucial plays. Calling someone a "red savage" is pretty offensive in any world and needs no explanation.

The coaches sided with Wong, Runningwater, and Freedman, saying they had been playing just as well as the rest of the team and there was no reason for Ormond to single them out, but Ormond was not having it. Even getting it through his head that Wong was not Mongolian proved to be surprisingly difficult.

[Ko-oren]

World Bowl 36/XXXVI @ Ko-oren
MD8 Scores

Group A
Kytler Peninsula 13–3 Main Nation Ministry
Ko-oren 6–7 Equestrian States
Skundi 7–45 Xanneria

Group A                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Main Nation Ministry          8    6   2   207  109  +98
2 Ko-oren                       8    6   2   130   63  +67
3 Equestrian States             8    5   3   111  120   −9
4 Kytler Peninsula              8    4   4    69   94  −25
5 Xanneria                      8    3   5   123  138  −15
6 Skundi                        8    0   8    59  175 −116

Group B
Castleon 10–22 Cosumar
Velstrania 19–10 Northwest Kalactin
North Quadana 17–17 Saint Dennis (20–23 OT)

Group B                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Cosumar                       8    7   1   184   77 +107
2 Velstrania                    8    6   2   152   82  +70
3 Northwest Kalactin            8    4   4   126   59  +67
4 Saint Dennis                  8    4   4    95  107  −12
5 Castleon                      8    3   5   102  173  −71
6 North Quadana                 8    0   8    40  201 −161

Group C
Micronistan 7–24 Abanhfleft
Drawkland 43–37 Lisander
Krytenia 6–19 Ranoria

Group C                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Ranoria                       8    7   1    89   46  +43
2 Abanhfleft                    8    6   2   160   69  +91
3 Drawkland                     8    6   2   188   99  +89
4 Lisander                      8    4   4   156  102  +54
5 Micronistan                   8    1   7    47  168 −121
6 Krytenia                      8    0   8    37  193 −156

Group D
A Rosa 17–7 Alpine Union
Allamunnic States 42–3 Velestria
Monarch Republic 10–19 New England

Group D                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 New England                   8    6   2   186   93  +93
2 Allamunnic States             8    5   3   155   48 +107
3 Alpine Union                  8    5   3    44   51   −7
4 Velestria                     8    3   5    85  125  −40
5 Monarch Republic              8    3   5    69  144  −75
6 A Rosa                        8    2   6    93  171  −78

Group E
Bendicion 3–16 Royal Kingdom of Quebec
Pridnestrovia 26–3 South Covello
Pambudia 3–22 Holy Marsh

Group E                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Pridnestrovia                 8    8   0   206  105 +101
2 Royal Kingdom of Quebec       8    6   2   218   98 +120
3 South Covello                 8    4   4   120   94  +26
4 Holy Marsh                    8    4   4   188  124  +64
5 Pambudia                      8    2   6    69  178 −109
6 Bendicion                     8    0   8    61  263 −202

Group F
One Jamaica 10–0 Vangaziland
Taeshan 30–16 Banija
Frenline Delpha 10–26 Monsa

Group F                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Taeshan                       8    6   2   178   80  +98
2 Banija                        8    6   2   199  100  +99
3 Vangaziland                   8    5   3   145  110  +35
4 Monsa                         8    4   4   109  166  −57
5 One Jamaica                   8    3   5    60  106  −46
6 Frenline Delpha               8    0   8    50  179 −129

Group G
Seraxinbourgh 20–23 Newmanistan
Free Republics 13–7 Jebslund
Qingland 0–24 The Greater Nordics

Group G                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Free Republics                8    7   1   223   97 +126
2 Newmanistan                   8    6   2   200  144  +56
3 The Greater Nordics           8    6   2   157   85  +72
4 Jebslund                      8    3   5   177  163  +14
5 Seraxinbourgh                 8    2   6   106  186  −80
6 Qingland                      8    0   8    39  227 −188

[Main Nation Ministry]

"I'm not interested in that stuff with bugs trapped in amber. I know they are supposed to be dead, but I don't like the idea of it, dear."

"I'm bringing them with me.. My wife and daughter are coming with me down to the flames, even if I need to poison them!"

"Have you ever considered science work, Jones? I know you're an athletic, but you seem to have some brains. See me at the Ministry of Science, if you have the time."

Agent Dragon: Desert Haze

The thug who was dressed in a normal white blazer and phone earpiece, rather than a white tuxedo as the other goons wear for the Don, walked into the bar where a faint trace of white powder can be seen around his nose. Was that cocaine or contraband? The man had a gold watch on, where he sat directly next to Shell, where he seems to notice him and Keller. "Well, we got some little shrimp here. What a bunch of tourists doing here." the man said, clearly in a drug-fueled mood. Shell immediately ignores him, along with Keller. "Bartender, I'm giving you extra today. A nickel should do." the man handed him a small coin, where the bartender tried to hide some anger, knowing he was just been short-changed. The man got up to use the restroom, where Keller nodded at Shell, wondering if he was thinking the same idea. "I know." Shell said, getting a pistol from a holster he kept hidden. As both of them left the counter, Keller grabbed the dog statue the bartender had, where he knew what she was planning on doing with it.

"You don't need some comic book to keep you worried, boss! I don't care about that tip-off. We just add it into production and we start shipping. Then, we can make sure that we're the best afterwards." Diego said, as he was taking a piss at the urinal at Sunny Sands. "Look, I will meet you there. The hoarder is taken care of. Maybe we should start a protection racket on his ass, so he knows that he works with us!" he joked, as he finished up. "See you, Don!" He went over to the sinks, after zipping up his fly. Shell and Keller entered, where both of them hid their weapons behind their backs. Diego didn't seem to notice or appear concerned at the two, since the restroom was technically unisex. Keller let Shell go first, where he immediately pointed the gun at Diego. "Against the wall. Tell us what you know about the Don?" Shell demanded, where Diego saw it as a joke, before he heard the safety pin be removed from the pistol. "You're serious? What do you want? A visit? You should have just politely asked. His villa is literally at the canyon!" Diego explained. "We also know that you are in possession of a comic book that we're looking for. Tell us where it is." Shell also demanded. "Why is everyone looking for that comic book?! We just gave it away to some kid that lives at the apartments. It's the Riverview Condos! He lives somewhere there! Just let me go, you crazies!" Diego demanded, where just as Shell was planning on shooting him, one of the henchmen from outside arrived in the restroom with a chain dangling from their hands.

"Diego, stop stalling and- Oh shit!" the goon gotten his chain ready to use as a whip, where Shell immediately aimed it at him, shooting him at his hand. Diego attempted to run past the two, but Keller was ready with the dog statue, using it to knock out Diego, where he fell near the door. Meanwhile, Shell managed to grab the chain the goon had and proceeded to wrap it around the henchman's neck. Kicking him to the floor, Shell proceeded to strangle the henchman in the restroom, where Keller gestured to run outside. "Go through the back!" Keller yelled, as both of them escaped through the back entrance of the bar.

---

It was around the afternoon, was when the Don finished checking the production of his new "ingredient" for his batch of drugs. He was playing billiards inside his game room, when one of his men alerted him of a problem. "Don? We have a bit of a problem? One of our men is dead." he said, where the Don stopped playing and decided to convince him to head outside with him. "Come, tell me more as we walk."
"Look.. I don't know why, but there are two tourists or agents from Main Nation Ministry looking for you and some comic book."
"A comic book? They gotten a tip off, also?"
"No, sir. We tried to contact the guy who was assigned to burn down that guy's house, but he got no word. We think they gotten to him, also."
"Well, I don't see the value, unless they want to see what's in the pages. To the hangar, we talk more in here."

Inside the hangar, some mechanics were working on a vintage plane, where they were testing a large propeller that could rip someone's face off if the small tip of the nose was hit. "So, tell me how they know?" the Don said, where he had some more of his men grab the informer. "Wait, what are you doing?!" "Fire it up!" the Don demanded, as the propeller started to spin. "I'm not planning on using this, just for transport. I want to see the reactions of those who previously go against me and the thing that I can use to convince them is with this. A simple touch and chunks of you will end up on the wall." "Hang on! Hang on! Diego was there! We also confronted and took care of the bartender! We managed to wake Diego up! He snitched about where the comic book is, but he's planning on killing them himself when we capture them!" the informer said, as he was slowly being forced to the blades. With a simple shake of the head, the informer was thrown aside, as the propeller started to slow down. "Let me live. I'm not ready to have this tested. Now..Where are they now?"

---

Keller and Shell arrived at the condos, where after they talked to some locals, they revealed that the one kid that lived in the condos was some kid named Jones. "Is this the correct address?" Keller asked, where Shell knocked on the door. A woman with a leather purse opened the door, where she saw the two. "Hello? Are you friends of Jones?" she asked, where Shell stated who he was. "Agent Shell of the Main Nation Ministry. We're wondering, if your son is in possession of a comic book recently?" "Leanne? There are some young people looking for Jones." the woman asked, where the mother named Leanne arrived at the front door. "You two said you were agents? You don't look any agents." she said, where Shell rolled his eyes. "It's part of protocol of staying in cover. Now, please. Let us inside. This town doesn't seem to have any actual law enforcement." Inside of the apartment, Keller and Shell stepped inside the living room, where Leanne called for Jones, where he went down the stairs. "Yes, Mom?" Jones said, where Keller realized what he looked like. He looked almost like Richard. This was going to get embarrassing. "No, stay organized, Keller. You got this." Keller said, even though she was starting to pout her face.

"Excuse me, Jones. We're from an important organization. If you can just cooperate with us, we will be out of here in a jetty. Ok?" Keller said to Jones, uncomfortable. "Why are you here?" Jones asked. "Did you recently get a comic book. If so, can you show us it?" "I did. Some large men decided to give it to me, where they said it was supposed to be a waste of time. I saw some pages and I thought it looked interesting. It's in my room, if you're wondering." Jones said, also nervously. "Good job, Ri- I mean Jones. Can you take us to your room, so we can have it?" Heading upstairs, all five of them went upstairs to Jones's bedroom, where he went into a desk drawer and pulled out the book. The comic book was a bit thick, but it looked like a graphic novella. The Azerty logo was on the front, but the art style looked completely different. "Let me see that." Shell asked Jones, as he skimmed some pages. Shell noticed a page, where he tried to mask his surprised with some plain ignorance. However, Keller was on to him. "Something wrong?"
"Hang on, let me radio mission control. I think we're on to something more big." Shell said, getting his watch to contact mission control. A loud bang at the door, nearly shook the house, as the woman who answered the door, who was most likely a babysitter working for Leanne, went downstairs to answer the door again. "Can I help you?" she said, until a gunshot rang down from at the front door. "They're here!" Shell yelled, where Keller immediately grabbed Jones. "Come on! We need to hide!" Keller convinced Jones, as they ran down the hallway into a bathroom. Hiding near the shower, Keller peeked to see two men with guns cornered Shell and Jones's mother.

"Don't say anything!" Keller immediately whispered to Jones, as Shell had his hands raised to the air. Humorously, Keller noticed that Shell was literally flipping the bird in both hands, as he had a gun pointed to his head. "You're coming with us! Where's that chick that's with you?" one of them said to Shell, where both Keller and Jones kept their mouth shut. "Come on, Shell.. Just lie!" she thought, as one of the goons had a gun pointed to the mother. "No! Shell, say something! Just lie!" Keller peeked to see what was happening, before hiding back. "Time is ticking! If you don't tell, this lady here is dead!" Shell immediately attempted to say something, but the mother panicked. Trying to run away by going to where the bathroom was, the mother got shot in the back, as she collapsed to the ground. Keller immediately put a hand over Jones's mouth, as he tried to scream and cry. "Screw you! I was trying to tell you she was outside!" Shell yelled, as he got the butt of a gun into his face. "Grab him. We're taking him to the Don. Give me a taste of our medicine." one of the men smirked, as they dragged the unconscious Agent Shell downstairs.

After a while, Keller waited until there was silence. Keller let Jones go, where he immediately ran to his mother who was scrawled on the floor. Keller hated the sight of him crying, knowing his mother was dead. But she had a job to do. "Jones, listen!" Keller attempted to comfort him, where he looked at her with teary eyes. "Look, you need to leave town. Try to convince a neighbor or someone you know to head to the train station. You need to run away from this town. Trust me. It's for your own safety! Don't worry about your mother! Just trust me on this!" Keller said, where Jones went to his mother's bedroom and gotten out a piggy bank. "I think I got enough." he said, though he was on another verge of crying. After leaving the house, Jones told Keller he was going to bike to a friend's house, before leaving to the station. "I'm going to tell my friend Kevin that I need to leave home. His parents will help me, also. Please stop them." Jones said, where Keller couldn't help, but cry.

"Come here. I'm so sorry for all that had happened." Keller let Jones hug him, before he started to bike away. Keller wiped her eyes, before walking away from the house. She knows that the Don lives in the canyon, which she guesses where Shell was taken to. He has the comic book, also. He even has communication to mission control. Keller figures that once imprisoned, Shell would lie that the watch was just for personal use. Then, Shell would contact mission control to say he was in danger. She didn't have any time to waste, she went looking for the canyon as she started to scan the outskirts of town.

[Trans-Dniesters]

Приднестровская Гридиронная Суперлига
PRIDNESTROVIAN GRIDIRON SUPER LEAGUE
SEASON III RECAP

Hello again, friends, comrades, and fellow fans in gridiron. Yet another part of the PGSL Season 3 review coming at you, so don't duck your heads to avoid it just yet! Get ready, because here it comes!

MATCHDAY TEN

Kesselburger Kestrels    7  0  0  3  10
Rheinburg Spartans       0  3  3  0  6

Vladikrav Red Death      3  3  0  0  6
Macaresti Gladiators     0  0  3  0  3

Antakya Hawks            0  0  7  0  7
Dinamo Bender            0  0  7  7  14

Sheriff Tiraspol         0  0  0  0  0
CSKA Tiraspol            0  0  0  3  3

Bratsk Dolphins          7 10  7  3  27
Novonikolaysk Sharks     7  7 10  6  30

Admiral Novorossiysk     7 10 10 10  37
Yeralenko Torpedoes      0  0  7  3  10

I have to say that this was one of the more boring game weeks for the PGSL in recent memory, at least before we get to the final two games of the week. Only four touchdowns in the span of four games, and three of those TDs came in one game. Despite that though, two of those games came down to the wire. The first one, between Antakya Hawks and Dinamo Bender, ended with Rodion Tarasenko finding Ustin Novikov in the end zone with only one second left to go on the game clock to score the game-winning touchdown. Over in the Tiraspol derby between CSKA and Sheriff, both offenses couldn't get anything going, and the few field goals that were attempted wouldn't go in between the uprights, at least until the final drive of the game in which, after getting pushed away from the nominal field goal range by a combination of sacks and penalties, CSKA's Kaspar Martinov finally managed to score the field goal from right on midfield, sending CSKA fans into delirium and Sheriff fans into despair. The same could be said for the visiting Novonikolaysk fans when Gregor Keller scored from 37 yards out to close out the Sharks' game against the Bratsk Dolphins. Meanwhile, when the Yeralenko Torpedoes came to visit Admiral Novorossiysk, they were absolutely trashed by Stan Serban and his boys, with the Seamen scoring ten points each in the second, third, and fourth quarters. Talk about an absolute demolishing!

MATCHDAY ELEVEN

Yeralenko Torpedoes      0  3  7  3  13
Kesselburger Kestrels    7 10  6  3  26

Novonikolaysk Sharks     0  7  3  3  13
Admiral Novorossiysk     7  7 10 10  34

CSKA Tiraspol            7  7  7  3  24
Bratsk Dolphins          3 10  7  7  27

Dinamo Bender            0  3  0  0  3
Sheriff Tiraspol         0  3  3  0  6 

Macaresti Gladiators    10 10 17 10  47
Antakya Hawks            0  7  0  0  7

Rheinburg Spartans       0  3  3  7  13
Vladikrav Red Death      3  3  0  0  6

Say what you will about the quality of the games in Week 10, but don't tell me that Week 11 more than made up for it! The midway point of the season may not always be the most exciting in terms of matchups, but the same thing can't be said about the games themselves. Unlike last season, when Dinamo Bender had the clear advantage, there are quite a number of teams vying for the chance to become the Halbmeister of the PGSL, the team sitting at the top of the league table (a concept that originated from the Ixanians but has now been adopted throughout the Pridnestrovian Republic). CSKA Tiraspol had a good chance to be the Halbmeister of Season 3, but as fate would have it, they absolutely cocked it up. But that Hail Mary pass from Kelly Profit on the Dolphins' 10-yard line to Zaidaan el-Zamani in the middle of the end zone was such a thing of beauty, I can't even bring myself to get mad. It's CSKA, baby. Admiral Novorossiysk end up taking home the Halbmeister, taking the lead over Rheinburg Spartans with their superior goal difference. And once again, attempts by Dinamo Bender to get their season back on track have suffered yet another blow with their 6-3 loss to Sheriff Tiraspol, Yevgeniy Abramov scoring the eventual game-winning field goal in the middle of the third quarter. And poor, poor Antakya Hawks. Demolished and ground to dust by Macaresti Gladiators. Not everyday do you see a team post double digit scores in each of the four quarters of a game, but here we just did. And Antakya wishes they didn't.

MATCHDAY TWELVE

Kesselburger Kestrels    3  7  0  0  10
Vladikrav Red Death      0  3  0  0  3

Rheinburg Spartans       0  0  0  3 3 6
Antakya Hawks            0  3  0  0 0 3

Macaresti Gladiators     0  7  3  0  10
Sheriff Tiraspol         0  0  7  7  14

Dinamo Bender            7  3  0  0  10
Bratsk Dolphins          0  3  0  3  6

CSKA Tiraspol            3  7  7  7 0 24
Admiral Novorossiysk     3  7  0 14 6 30

Novonikolaysk Sharks    14  7 10 10  41
Yeralenko Torpedoes      3  0  0  7  10

And now we enter the second half of the season, the business end, the end where mistakes could cost your team a chance at the playoffs and success could lead to an easier berth depending on where the other teams land. This is the time for teams to really show what they're worth, and boy did teams really start showing their quality. Remember when I said that CSKA Tiraspol should really watch out for that possible chance that they could slip up and mess up the whole regular season championship picture? Well, they just went and did it, the absolute madmen. And against the Halbmeisters as well! Forget about CSKA; Admiral Novorossiysk might very well be the team to beat this season! The Seamen just found ways to score against the Army Team, especially when they were trailing CSKA 24-10 deep in the fourth quarter. First Stan Serban found Rochell Pangalanan with a ten-yard shovel pass that Pangalanan immediately walked into the end zone (like what the fuck, a ten-yard shovel pass? Come on!), and then with less than a minute remaining, Estrella Jacobson snatched a pass meant for Filipp Kadnikov out of the air and then ran it back into the end zone for a pick-six to tie the game. Admiral then won the overtime toss and chose to receive, and as luck would have it, Stan the Man would throw a long bomb to Wladyslaw Skorupka for an uncontested run into the end zone to, well, end the game. Unlike the last time CSKA lost on the last drive of the game, I was very much fuming this time. How in the world did CSKA's cornerback and safety not get the ball before Skorupka did? How is that even possible? Like, how?

PGSL Table After Matchday Twelve

   PGSL                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD
 1 Admiral Novorossiysk    12    9   3   250  170  +80
 2 Rheinburg Spartans      12    9   3   189  126  +63
 3 CSKA Tiraspol           12    8   4   238  187  +51
 4 Sheriff Tiraspol        12    8   4   114   77  +37
 5 Novonikolaysk Sharks    12    7   5   205  204   +1
 6 Yeralenko Torpedoes     12    6   6   171  245  −74
 7 Bratsk Dolphins         12    5   7   213  205   +8
 8 Dinamo Bender           12    5   7   142  154  −12
 9 Kesselburger Kestrels   12    5   7   133  195  −62
10 Macaresti Gladiators    12    4   8   176  158  +18
11 Antakya Hawks           12    3   9   132  182  −50
12 Vladikrav Red Death     12    3   9   118  178  −60

So this is how the PGSL table stands as of Week 12 of Season 3. Admiral Novorossiysk sit pretty atop the league. They have the same number of wins as Rheinburg Spartans but hold the advantage on point differentials. The two Tiraspol teams, CSKA and Sheriff, round out the rest of the top four. Two teams are surprisingly in the playoff spots in the form of Novonikolaysk and Yeralenko, and defending Pridnestrovian Bowl champions Dinamo Bender have finally managed to sneak their way into eighth place. Will they finally be able to climb up the table or will they fall out of the playoff picture once again?

That does it for me for this part of the recap of Season 3 of the Pridnestrovian Gridiron Super League. As always, there are more parts coming up so keep your eyes peeled. But until then, friends, comrades, and fellow fans in gridiron, До свидания.

[Ko-oren]

World Bowl 36/XXXVI @ Ko-oren
MD9 Scores

# qualified for Ro16 as top 8 seed (group winner or best runner up)
+ qualified for Ro16
* still in the qualification race

Group A
Skundi 0–17 Kytler Peninsula
Xanneria 3–10 Ko-oren
Equestrian States 3–13 Main Nation Ministry

Group A                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Main Nation Ministry+         9    7   2   220  112 +108
2 Ko-oren+                      9    7   2   140   66  +74
3 Equestrian States*            9    5   4   114  133  −19
4 Kytler Peninsula*             9    5   4    86   94   −8
5 Xanneria                      9    3   6   126  148  −22
6 Skundi                        9    0   9    59  192 −133

Main Nation Ministry has the H2H over Ko-oren

Group B
North Quadana 19–14 Castleon
Saint Dennis 7–19 Velstrania
Northwest Kalactin 0–21 Cosumar

Group B                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Cosumar#                      9    8   1   205   77 +128
2 Velstrania+                   9    7   2   171   89  +82
3 Northwest Kalactin            9    4   5   126   80  +46
4 Saint Dennis                  9    4   5   102  126  −24
5 Castleon                      9    3   6   116  192  −76
6 North Quadana                 9    1   8    59  215 −156

Cosumar has the H2H over Velstrania

Group C
Krytenia 10–20 Micronistan
Ranoria 16–20 Drawkland
Lisander 20–17 Abanhfleft

Group C                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Ranoria+                      9    7   2   105   66  +39
2 Drawkland*                    9    7   2   208  115  +93
3 Abanhfleft*                   9    6   3   177   89  +88
4 Lisander                      9    5   4   176  119  +57
5 Micronistan                   9    2   7    67  178 −111
6 Krytenia                      9    0   9    47  213 −166

Drawkland has the H2H over Abanhfleft
Ranoria has the H2H over Drawkland
Ranoria has the H2H over Abanhfleft (+6 PD) with a game left to play

Group D
Monarch Republic 10–14 A Rosa
New England 14–6 Allamunnic States
Velestria 21–23 Alpine Union

Group D                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 New England+                  9    7   2   200   99 +101
2 Alpine Union*                 9    6   3    67   72   −5
3 Allamunnic States*            9    5   4   161   62  +99
4 Velestria                     9    3   6   106  148  −42
5 Monarch Republic              9    3   6    79  158  −79
6 A Rosa                        9    3   6   107  181  −74

Alpine Union has the H2H over New England (+3 PD) with a game left to play
Allamunnic States has the H2H over Alpine Union

Group E
Pambudia 31–7 Bendicion
Holy Marsh 0–6 Pridnestrovia
South Covello 10–7 Royal Kingdom of Quebec

Group E                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Pridnestrovia#                9    9   0   212  105 +107
2 Royal Kingdom of Quebec+      9    6   3   225  108 +117
3 South Covello*                9    5   4   130  101  +29
4 Holy Marsh                    9    4   5   188  130  +58
5 Pambudia                      9    3   6   100  185  −85
6 Bendicion                     9    0   9    68  294 −226

Royal Kingdom of Quebec has the H2H over South Covello

Group F
Frenline Delpha 7–0 One Jamaica
Monsa 3–17 Taeshan
Banija 47–7 Vangaziland

Group F                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Taeshan+                      9    7   2   195   83 +112
2 Banija+                       9    7   2   246  107 +139
3 Vangaziland*                  9    5   4   152  157   −5
4 Monsa                         9    4   5   112  183  −71
5 One Jamaica                   9    3   6    60  113  −53
6 Frenline Delpha               9    1   8    57  179 −122

Taeshan has the H2H over Banija

Group G
Qingland 10–17 Seraxinbourgh
The Greater Nordics 17–16 Free Republics
Jebslund 12–17 Newmanistan

Group G                     Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Free Republics+               9    7   2   239  114 +125
2 Newmanistan+                  9    7   2   217  156  +61
3 The Greater Nordics+          9    7   2   174  101  +73
4 Jebslund                      9    3   6   189  180   +9
5 Seraxinbourgh                 9    3   6   123  196  −73
6 Qingland                      9    0   9    49  244 −195

Free Republics has the H2H over Newmanistan
Free Republics has the H2H over the Greater Nordics
Newmanistan has the H2H over the Greater Nordics (+3 PD) with one game left to play

The Greater Nordics(or the Free Republics, or Newmanistan) are at least one of the best two runners-up and have therefore secured a Round of 16 berth.

[A Rosa]

A Rosa out, but go out in winning form!

Unfortunately A Rosa and the Annattle RG Wolves are eliminated from the WorldBowl XXXVI.
But since the confirmation of A Rosa having no chance of qualifying our lads have gone out and put their all into the last 3 games, pulling of shocking wins and upsets to some great teams.
Our first EVER international American Football win in the History of the Kingdom of A Rosa, this win also meant a lot to us as this came just hours after HM King Loch I RIP had passed away, he was the founder of our Nation. This football achievement was seen as a great lift up of the spirit of the Kingdom and its colonies. The win came in over time against New England, the game was tied 10-10 when we scored a TD to end the game. This was also payback as New England had beaten on GD 2 (see below)
The second win came right after as we beat the Alpine Union 17-7, another tale of payback as we had lost to the Alpine Union 12-7 on GD 3 (see below)
Then of course the third win fell against the Monarch Republic with a score of 14-10, which was yet another payback story as we had lost to them on GD 4 (see below)
Well done to the whole team as you've done everyone so proud! Go RG Wolves!

Here are all the results
1: Allamunnic States 40–10 A Rosa
2: A Rosa 10–31 New England
3: Alpine Union 12–7 A Rosa
4: A Rosa 22–27 Monarch Republic
5: Velestria 14–7 A Rosa
6: A Rosa 3–30 Allamunnic States
7: New England 10–10 A Rosa (10–17 OT)
8: A Rosa 17–7 Alpine Union
9: Monarch Republic 10–14 A Rosa

Total Record
3-6

Well done to all the team you've done us proud!
Also thank you to Ko-oren for hosting such a good tournament!]

Long Live King Gemmell I
RIP HM King Loch I
All Hail The Kingdom Of A Rosa and its Colonies!

[Ranoria]

Keep Pounding: Ranorian Squad Wins Defensive Slugfest in MD5, Goes on to Win Out Until Week 9

Safety John Hiram(left) and linebacker Johnson Ellis (right) had big days in what was a shutout until overtime

I mean, honestly, just when we were starting to think that this offense was finding a way to pack some punch, we see nothing in regulation, with four hundred and seventy total yards, and three turnovers, between the two squads. This was just an absurd outing that no one expected, but the fact that Ranoria came out on top makes it, at the very least, a little bit easier.

Defensively, it was a dominant performance. Despite playing a whopping total of 88 snaps, Ranoria's defense allowed just three points and those came in overtime. John Hiram, at the safety position, led the team in tackles with eleven, a season high for him, and also had three pass deflections throughout an excellent day in coverage. He also had a big hit early in the first quarter on a run play to force and recover a fumble. He was a key cog, as he always has been, in this defensive effort, but linebacker Johnson Ellis had a solid performance as well, tallying seven tackles, two for a loss, a sack, and an interception. This undervalued prospect has been a huge surprise for the Ranorian squad, and hopefully he can keep producing in order to prolong our success. It should also be noted that William Teller did not play in this game, as he suffered a minor injury to the lower body, and wanted to play it safe.

Offensively, this was a stagnant performance. Henry Johnson carried the ball twenty seven times for a whopping total of just fifty four yards. Terry Grayson, at quarterback, wasn't much better, tossing for 191 yards and an interception while going 24/39. The only really productive player in terms of yards per touch was Kaleb Katterifeld, who had four catches for thirty five yards and five runs for twenty four. Eleven of those yards came on a late game, overtime run that set up the game-winning field goal for Ranoria.

For the first time this season, Henry Johnson was held under one hundred yards rushing, and was bottled up all day long

It was a frustrating outing, though, for quarterback Terry Grayson, who felt that he was making some progress in this offense after throwing three touchdown passes in the last two games, only to absolutely flop here. Head coach Alex Reinhard, meanwhile, stated that he wasn't upset about a lack of production as long as they won, saying the following:

"No, I'm not upset that Terry had a poor game as a passer. Everyone has a bad day once in awhile, and hey, we eventually came out on top, right? That's what matters in the end. Grayson has been improving, but obviously we're still working out all the kinks, and working on his throwing motion, as well. He's been playing ball for a long time, it's not easy to change your ways at his age, but he's making a very real effort to do so."

If there was a bright spot in this passing game, it came from #3 wideout Jarell Goodwin, who caught five passes for fifty five yards amid a day where the rest of the recieving core struggled. Mario Terrin was held to just one catch for two yards, RB Henry Johnson caught two passes for six yards, and the ever reliable, but not explosive, Joey Giordano caught two passes for ten yards. Johnny Farmer and emerging veteran Ricardo Jackson were productive as usual, with Farmer tallying five grabs for 81 yards. For the first time this season, however, Jackson broke the hundred yard mark, reeling in five of his own receptions for 102 yards.

After that performance, this suprising, upstart Ranorian squad went on to win a 6-3 overtime game against Lisander with a walkoff TD pass to Johnny Farmer to get to 5-1, continuing to struggle on offense, and for the second straight week, Henry Johnson was held under a hundred yards rushing. That said, they did continue to win games, with a 13-0 victory over Lisander and a 16-9 win over Krystenia getting this team to a 7-1 record, and let's be honest, no one was expecting that to happen with the press going into this year.

Despite that, our momentum was halted, and the seven game win streak stopped, with a loss against Drawkland, who currently sits in second place at 7-2 behind this Ranorian National Team, which holds the same record. It would have been nice to clinch the group with a win over Drawkland, but after a disappointing 16-20 victory, the second time that the defense has let up 20 points this year, we will have to wait until the season finale to clinch the division, although we have already secured a playoff berth.

That tenth matchday will come against Abanhfleft, whom we defeated earlier in the year. The Fleftic squad played a tough game, however, and it will certainly be a test of how far this Ranorian team has come to see how well we play against the 6-3 squad. It should be noted as well that Drawkland will almost definitely win their next outing, and, as such, beating Abanhfleft is of utmost importance. This team is fighting for a playoff spot, however, and it will be no easy task to drag them down a second time.

With one game remaining, however, it's important to check in on the production of our offensive players.

While the touchdowns have still been few and far between, Terry Grayson really picked it up a notch, passing wise, after that MD5 game. He put up over 1,200 more yards to go along with 4 of his 7 touchdown passes on the season while being picked off only twice after throwing five interceptions before this four game stretch, with both of those picks coming against Drawkland. Impressively, while his completion percentage was around 61 after the fifth game, it's up to 64.6, and it's telling. He is playing much better in this offense, even if he hasn't managed to put up gaudy numbers in the passing game.

Runner Henry Johnson has maintained his usual production, and now has 970 yards on 225 carries this season. His touches per game have dropped a bit, however, as young runner Kaleb Katterfield has established himself as a third down stud, with 58 carries for 270 yards and 20 catches for 165 yards on the season so far.

As far as receivers go, it should be no surprise that Johnny Farmer leads the group in all significant categories, hauling in 75 catches for 885 yards and a team leading 5 scores. Ricardo Jackson has certainly carved out a role, though, as a number two, totaling 42 receptions for an even 610 yards and a pair of scores. Mario Terrin has 15 grabs on the year, but it has been revealed that he was injured in the fourth match, and has been struggling to come back ever since. Finally, looked over Jarell Goodwin has had a solid season with 393 yards on 35 catches.

Defensively, Justin Kearse continues to have a dominant season, with 52 tackles, 10 TFL, 11.5 sacks, 5 FF, 3 FR, and even a safety. He is the leader of this defense, but the rest of the defensive line is playing well alongside him. DT Kevin Gerhart has five sacks of his own, while Malik Carrion, who is improving as a pass rusher, has four and a half and William Teller, their young speed rusher, has seven. Johnny Farmer, who subs in occasionally, has racked up four of his own to go along with a tackle for loss and 13 tackles.

In the back seven, outside backer Johnson Ellis is third on the team in tackles with 59, and has made plenty of plays as well, with 6 TFL, 3.5 sacks, and three interceptions, while John Hiram commands the last line of defense with five interceptions, 56 tackles, and a sack.

Key Players: Season Stats

QB Terry Grayson: 215/338, 2,310 yards, 63.6%, 7 TD, 7 INT, 7 rush, 24 yards, fumble
HB Henry Johnson: 225 carries, 970 yards, 4 TD, 10 reception, 25 yards
HB Kaleb Katterfield: 58 carries, 270 yards, 20 reception, 165 yards
TE/DE Johnny Farmer: 75 receptions, 885 yards, 5 TD ||| Defense: 13 tackles, TFL, 4 sacks
TE Joey Giordano: 20 catches, 110 yards
WR Ricardo Jackson: 42 reception, 610 yards, 2 TD 25 350
WR Mario Terrin: 15 receptions, 125 yards, Fumble
WR Jarell Goodwin: 35 receptions, 393 yards

LE Justin Kearse: 52 tackles, 10 TFL, 11.5 sacks, 4 FF, 2 FR, 1 safety
DT Kevin Gerhart: 22 tackles, 8 TFL, 5 sack, FF, FR
RE Malik Carrion: 25 tackles, 9 TFL, 4.5 sack, FF
RE William Teller: 20 tackles, 7 sack, FF, 2 FR
FS John Hiram: 56 tackles, 5 INT, 12 Pass deflections, 1 Sack, 1 FF, 1 FR
OLB Johnson Ellis: 59 tackles, 6 TFL, 3.5 sack, 3 INT

[Main Nation Ministry]

Dereliction: Room 102

"Alright, put him in the room and hook him up with the electrodes." Xavier demanded to the crew, as he was having one of the losing contestants get hooked up to a hellish-looking lie-detector machine that activated, if there was a wrong question, you would be shocked into submission. They were doing all of this in a room, that was made to look like one of Main Nation Ministry's so-called Room 101's. Emmanuel Jones arrived on the set, where he saw Xavier smirking a bit at how the contestant was scared. "You always were a sadistic one, Sorrento." Jones said, as Xavier noticed him. "Jones! If it isn't a surprise! Are you here for an interview?" "No, I came to say that we're hosting a vigil at Jack's Bar. I'm bringing all of the old squad members back for a reunion." "Well, what does that have to do with me?"

"Don't you remember? You were part of the squad."
"Jones. I know I'm have the skills of a soldier, but after the war, I wanted to distance myself from it. I didn't like to be apart of getting my brains almost shot to splatter against the grass."
"You still have that behavior which you're showing with your shows."
"Jones, I only have stuff on TV, but it's natural for them to enjoy violence. Yes, I have some ideas, like that time I hosted that Chart Throp show, where that blind singer told that served as a bit of a media circus, but I'm still being a patriot. I'm still taking orders from the Leader. You're still one, ain't you?" Xavier asked, where Jones couldn't help, but know that Xavier was technically right.

"I let you come, but I don't want you to bring all of your camera crew or whatever you use to make things on television." Jones said, where he also remarked, "Try to bring your old uniform as gratitude." Jones left the TV studio, where while walking, he saw a stray cat dart in front of him. It was a normal black cat, though Jones didn't believe in superstitution. "You don't have an owner, do you?" Jones picked the cat up, where he noticed that he didn't check pets back in his apartment. "You know, I can take you to my neighbor Edna. She loves animals from what I heard." Jones thought, as he held the cat. Then, Jones felt something cold fall onto his hair. He looked up to see that it was starting to snow. A little bit of strange weather to help the mood.

"I was thinking that even as we have a happy life, I don't know what else to say. We might as not wilt like flowers, if we're at it."

"I know all of the other girls are mean, Keller. But we need to toughen you up!"

"She was a cat person?"
"She's allergic to dogs. I didn't know this while I was at sign-ups."
"Tough luck."

The Familiar Stranger: God Bless..

The Leader and Daphne walked through the park, as they examined the plants around them. "I know about the survivors, but what about the nations that scattered in space when the bombs were dropped?" the Leader asked Daphne, as she saw a rose. "Well, I don't want to discuss it too much. I know the war ended up causing most things around here to be iffy, but I need to know how you ended up in that body of yours." Daphne said, picking up a rose. "It's a really really really...long story. I know it's creepy that I'm in this body, but someone managed to nearly overthrow us after a zombie outbreak. I feel like what happened is supposed to be a reference or something." The Leader remarked. "So how did Main Nation Ministry end up here?" "Well, we founded the nation on a place called Know Your Region. They were a bunch of nations who have a large knowledge of memes."
"Like from the internet?"
"Mostly yes, but we saw a potential in memes. Since they are ideas that are shared in the minds of many, we took advantage of that."
"So you're brainwashing them?" Daphne asked, where even though she was somber, there was a bit of a change in her tone.

"Well. Yes and no. Look, I know I was a good person in your eyes, but there are times where I see it impossible. Even in this time, where we have nations even most crazier than mine. I know. It's complicated. Everything is." the Leader said, where he let her hold his hand. "I.. There was some things that I don't want to discuss. Seeing how it's impossible to start over due to the situations both of us are in." Daphne said, looking sad. "No! It's possible! It's..ok, technically we still love each other, despite- No, pretty much everyone would know. But what I'm trying to say that it's possible to change things!" The Leader reasoned, where Daphne smiled a little. Then, the Leader noticed a snowflake fall from the sky. The Leader shrugged this off, but Daphne seemed to act worried. It looked like her body tensed up upon seeing it. "Something wrong?" "No. It's good. I just don't like to be chilly. It was so good to when it wasn't cold down there." Daphne said, where she let herself be close to the Leader. "Could you help me collect some roses. I think they be good for later." Daphne asked, where the Leader agreed.

---

"This is Expedition Beta, officially starting. Oxygen tanks are on. Coolant packs are on. Cynical need to not be a cowardly piece of shit. Priceless." The Beta squad was all suited up, as they stood at the foot of the portal. "Assault rifles are ready. Communication equipment is good to go. Move in." the captain of the squad said, as each of them entered the portal. Each saw the flames briefly before they subsided. What awaited them was a long hallway. "Don't turn back. Whatever you see isn't there." the captain kept reminding his men, as they briefly held the loud alarm and saw a visual hallucination. The rest was starting to be a cake walk, due to the advanced preparations they undertook. "I don't see anything. Just a long winding hallway." "Quiet, we need to confirm if there are other people down here. That lady seems to be living in here." the captain said, as they started to notice fog. "Keep going in. Don't back out!" the captain reminded his men, as they went into the fog.

"I can't seem to contact mission control. Wait, I feel something! It's like a gust of strong air!" a squad member said, as he trekked deeper into the fog. "Hang on, I see something! What is that?!" They found themselves in a large hallway that was completely different than what the squad went through. This time, it was almost huge. There was enough space to walk around in. The whole hallway seemed to be covered in some sort of paste or substance. "It looks like we're walking on smashed pomegranates?" a squad member said, as there was an orange glow at the end of the hallway. In the distance, they saw a normal-looking man in casual clothing exit from the glow. "Hello? Who are you?" the man asks, where he is ordered to put his hands up and kneel. "Please. I know you're from the surface. I just want out. Please!" he said desperately. "Sir, please stop what you doing and stay still!" the squad captain ordered. "No, I just want to be human!" the man said, where his arm suddenly phased out to become insect-like.

"Open fire! Open fire! Retreat to the portal!" the squad captain ordered, before opening fire.

---

The Leader took Daphne to his office, where he started her his private penthouse. "See, you can put down the roses at the vase over there. Over the maid knows and she's supposed to be a top assassin. Loyal too!" The Leader joked, as Daphne sets up the flowers. Then, he received a call on his phone. "Hang on, I need to talk this, quick. It's from the on-site containment team who are monitoring the portal." The Leader said, where he didn't notice her looking nervously. He exited the dining room where Daphne was and entered his private bedroom to make the call. "Hello? Leader, speaking."
"Leader! We need to close the portal! Or contain it, at least! The Beta Squad exited the portal and they can confirming that some sort of monsters are present!"
"Monsters? You sure that you're telling the truth. Daphne gotten out of the portal, remember?"
"Leader, I know that we found nothing from Daphne. But maybe if a more though examination was done, we could have easily identified what she was."

Daphne was in the hallway near the bedroom, where she can hear what the Leader was saying. Daphne didn't want to do this, but she couldn't keep up the facade any longer. She was good at keeping her hunger at bay, since she was more of a faster. The food they served while she was locked-up in the northwest was standard, but she didn't go too hungry. However, the Leader would demand questions from her, eventually. She went back to the dining room and examined the roses. They weren't more flowers for decoration. They felt more like funeral flowers. Flowers for both her and her daughter. She was still glad that she was resting easy. She was lucky to not become a creature of the night. "Daphne! We need to talk!" the Leader yelled from his bedroom. It was time. She might as well relax her body and let herself come out.

The Leader left the bedroom, where he called for Daphne. "Daphne, we need to talk about what's happening in the forest sector!" he said, where he walked to the dining room to see what appeared to be a monster in his own home. It had glowing red eyes, horns, pointed ears and fangs to chew something to shreds. However, it was wearing clothes. Clothes that didn't seem to be affected and made the monster look like someone wearing a realistic Halloween mask. The Leader couldn't help it. He started to tear up again. "Daphne? Don't tell me that's you." He said, on the verge of despair.

"I know it's hard to look at. But I'm still Daphne." the monster said in the voice of Daphne.
The Leader nearly broke upon hearing it. He didn't feel fear. He didn't feel anger. He felt like all of the hope he had was being destroyed in front of his eyes. All he felt now was the horrible truth that he couldn't bear. "No. I thought things would be good. Why.. Why!"

[Ko-oren]

Hall of Fame announcement

To coincide with the World Bowl on home soil, the Ko-orenite Gridiron Football Association has opened the official Ko-orenite Hall of Fame. The Dragonfly archipelago is fairly established in the Gridiron world, between one World Bowl hosted, one World Bowl won, as well as having its club teams participating in the Champions' Bowl - and the Champions' Bowl Headquarters are currently on Ko-orenite soil as well. Not to mention that the premier club tournament's final has been played in Aminey on several occasions. It's safe to say that Ko-oren has made its mark on how the sport is run.

Most of those have been recent achievements, though. Domestically, the KGL is going into its 44th season, with 12 professional teams and another 24 teams battling it out in a development league and a second division. These teams have produced some legends, and the KGFA feels that a Hall of Fame is needed to remember these players and their performances.

The Hall of Fame itself is located in Mayara, the city with two professional teams, home to the very first KGL champions, and where one development league team plays its home games, as well as where a second division team plays. Multiple cities have a valid claim when it comes to the title of 'Capital of Gridiron', but none of those claims seem as strong as Mayara's. Yesterday, the Hall was opened with most of the included members in attendance, as well as many players that are currently in the KGL. National team players and staff did not attend, as they are still preparing for their last group game and looking ahead to the Round of 16.

The Hall consists of four wings, each to remember a part of the sport. The main wing is for legendary players, and there are wings for the most famous teams, most breathtaking games, and the most important people behind the scenes: coaches, commissioners, etcetera. The KGFA has started with inducting 12 players, 4 teams, 3 games, and 2 VIPs.

Hall of Fame - Players
1 Sébastien Germain - QB of the World Bowl 26-winning team
2 Rhydian Powel - OLB/Pass rusher of the World Bowl 26-winning team
3 Denes Ploraon - QB of the World Bowl 24 runners up
4 Gaël Aubin - ILB of the World Bowl 24 runners up
5 Ralph Alexander - Placekicker of multiple World Bowl teams and career highest FG%
6 Henrique Góes - FS of multiple World Bowl teams, including 26 and 24
7 Zados Gusard - CB of very early Ko-orenite national teams
8 Ku & Er Bekwylgi - Brothers and LBs of the early successful Ko-orenite national teams
9 Jakob Noordholm - Laringen Ravens DL from the early beginning of Gridiron in Ko-oren
X Simon Kampen - Rozenvoorde Roses RB from the early beginning of Gridiron in Ko-oren
= Rufus Yardley - OT on the Season 22-25 Saints
0 Fabrice Dubuisson - LB on the Season 14-15 Caspians

Hall of Fame - Teams
1 World Bowl 26 national team
2 Season 2-5 Alara Astronauts - two time Ko-oren Bowl winners
3 Season 14-15 Aminey Caspians - back to back Ko-oren Bowl winners
4 Season 22-25 Willowbourne Saints - three Ko-oren Bowl wins in four years

Hall of Fame - Games
1 World Bowl XXVI final - Ko-oren 7, Saintland 6
2 Season 1 Ko-oren Bowl: Ko-oren Capitals crowned as first champions (currently Sterrenwolde Dragonflies)
3 Laringen Ravens vs Rozenvoorde Roses - First Gridiron game in Ko-oren

Hall of Fame - VIPs
1 George Wallace - Coach of the mid-20s World Bowl teams
2 Henzelborun Sulstirtinden - First commissioner of the KGL

Some of these names may have already disappeared from memory - still there on the wiki page but not a name that one encounters often. Sulstirtinden, for instance, is on the list of commissioners but few know that he personally contacted the largest teams of the time to discuss terms of setting up a national league, which is where the two oldest teams, the Laringen Ravens and the Rozenvoorde Roses decided not to join the league. Sulstirtinden solved this by adding the Ko-oren Capitals, at the time a small team from the capitals, and the Tireniun Wai, who nowadays are the Sterrenwolde Dragonflies and the Mayara Wolves, two of the most successful and storied teams in the professional league.

Of course, there is a bias towards the World Bowl 24-26 teams, when Ko-oren repeatedly made the semifinals and even the final, eventually winning the 26th edition. Ploraon and Germain represent the two sides of those teams: Ploraon was part of the very early teams, back when the Dragonflies were happy to slog out a win over small teams, while Germain made the team in a time where everyone expected a win, no matter the opponent. To think that the modern versions of those teams now come to our nation to decide the world champion. Dynasties come and go, but their legacies remain.