Ranorian Domestic & International Sports Newswire

[Ranoria]

Ranorian International Sport Titles:

NSCF XX - Cold Hill University Buffalo (Over Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder)
NSCF XXII - Cold Hill University Buffalo (Over Felswyr State Firehawks)
NSCF XXVII - Richardson University Governors (Over Staramara Tech Lava)
NCCF XXIV - Cold Hill University Buffalo (Over Felswyr State Firehawks)
NSCF XXX - Richardson University Governors (Over Cold Hill University Buffalo)

World Bowl 42 - Ranorian Krauts (Over St. Kanye Surge)
World Bowl 43 - Ranorian Krauts (Over Drawkland's Grid Corps)
World Bowl 46 - Ranorian Krauts (Over Banija Serpent Eagles)

World Baseball Classic 57 - Ranorian Krauts (Over Banija Lions)

Runner-Ups
NSCF 19 - Richardson University Governors (to Northern Moravica)
NSCF 21 - Cold Hill University Buffalo (to Loyola Istria)
NSCF 30 - Cold Hill University Buffalo (to Richardson University)

Bronze:
World Bowl 45: (Over Drawkland Grid Corps)
WBC 56 (Over Chromatika's Outliers)

Ranorian Domestic Sports

1: Ranorian Football League:
By far the largest sport in Ranoria, the Ranorian Football League is the professional level of gridiron sport for the nation. Largely a smashmouth league historically, exposure to international sport has lead to a rapid development of the passing game in the country. With 34 teams play a 16 game season for the rights to a 12 team playoff bid. With star quarterbacks beginning to emerge, the game has never been more exciting.

A Ranorian National Team, largely composed of RFL players, is separate from the league, but is beginning talks to merge the two in order to create more profit for both. The National Team competes against international competition in the World Bowl, where they recently managed a 10-0 group stage.

2: Ranorian College Football:
The second most profitable sport in the country, RCF displays talent that can go toe-to-toe with any other nation's top talent, as displayed by the incredible success of the Richardson and Cold Hill programs in the international competition NSCF. The collegiate level has been more quick to adapt to passing strategies than the pros.

3: Renown Combat International:
Combat sports appeal to a populace that sees itself as tough and gritty. Some groups have thrown flak towards the industry, as many fighters end up with permanent brain injuries, but MMA is a dominating figure in Ranoria that will not go away anytime soon.

4: Federation of Ranorian Baseball
The Federation of Ranorian Baseball has gained a ton of popularity recently, becoming very mainstream and going from a small-audience sport to a passing up hockey in annual viewership. With guys getting more and more money and plenty of Ranorian stars at home even with some studs traveling abroad, huge stadiums have been constructed and everyone wants a piece of the Federation these days.

5: National Association of Hockey Clubs
An odd name for a league, but the NAH is the 4th largest professional sporting league in the nation. With only 16 total teams, however, it is a vast drop off from MMA to hockey. The smaller share does still provide wealth for its players, and like MMA, the nature of the sport appeals to Ranorians.

6: Major League Lacrosse:
Ranoria's lacrosse is a niche sport and well under the popularity of baseballl, but the teams have seen some success at the international level, reaching the knockout rounds in each of their two tries at the World Lacrosse Championships.

6: Professional Basketball Alliance:
Like baseball, Ranorian basketball players are underpaid for their talents and often the best play abroad in order to capitalize on their opportunities. Ten teams make up this league, and all of them make the playoffs in a rather poorly run show.

7: National Alliance of Association Football :
If not for Ranoria's booming economy, many soccer players would have to have a side gig just to get by, as 70,000 per year is top end wages. That is below the bottom 10% of the country, but more than enough to get by. Ranorian Soccer is made up of 12 teams across the country, and incorporates an 8 team postseason tournament.

NSCF 17: Richardson @ Cold Hill, Week 7
NSCF 20: Stampede In The Lightning Yard
NSCF 23: The LSD game *Disclaimer, this is not promoting LSD use in anyway, this is for comedic purposes only
WC 88: Rhine tries to get Chewie into a World Cup game
WC 88: Ranorian announcers think they're commentating on a gridiron match
IBC 32; Defense is for nerds: Part I, Part II
World Bowl 42 Title Run: Part I, Part II, Part III
World Bowl 43 Title Run: Part I, Part II, Part III, Part IV

NSCAA 13: Richardson University basketball players get bullied on campus after losing to Loyola-Istria

From other users!

SNL's WBC 54 Championship RP
"14 and Done" - Banj's RP after NMU over CHU. Maybe the best RP I've ever read.
Long! And there's background, but this stuff by Drawk is excellent.

[Ranoria]

The Ranorian Football League

QBs Derek McNair of the North Carolina Dreadnoughts (left) and John Garrett of the Indianapolis Hogs (right), two of the best quarterbacks in the game today

Easily the most popular sport in Ranoria, football is dominant in culture, viewership, and earnings. The League consists of 34 teams from across the country, all competing within two conferences for a spot in the 12 team playoff, where a single elimination tournament takes place. Each conference is allotted six seeds, sorted very simply from best to worst record.

Teams in the Ranorian Football League:

Eastern Ranorian Football Conference

Western Ranorian Football Conference

Memphis Steamers

Star Players:
QB Derek McNair

Nashville Sabercats

Star Players:
LT Kevin Eakin

Mississippi Bootleggers
Lorcondan National Team

Winnipegg Mountaineers
Montreal Crusaders
Vancouver Yeti
Victorsville Hurricane

Indianapolis Hogs

Star Players:
QB John Garrett
WR Earl Beets
WR Javier Gilmore

Minnesota Red Wolves
Madison Gladiators

Star Players:
SS Judas Wolfson
CB Darnell Sleight
EDGE William Teller

Herot Paladins

Star Players:
HB Melvin Strong

Cleveland Sabers
New York Lights
Boston Captains

Pittsburgh Ironmen

Star Players:
EDGE Angelo Gordon
EDGE Jarrett Hauptmann
WR Ricardo Jackson

Baltimore Hawks
Philadelphia Phalanx
Massachusetts Pioneers

North Carolina Dreadnaughts

Star Players:
QB Bo Callahan
EDGE Emmanuel Miller
ILB Ross Monarch

Georgia Thrashers

Star Players:
HB Emilio Annaise

Edmunton Eagles

Star Players:
HB Elijah Sampson

Rouyoutte Colts

New York Heights
Winnipegg Marauders
Yellowknife Wraiths

Star Players:
EDGE Zach Skinner

Richardson Fenrirs

Star Players:
EDGE Douglas Starling
OLB Johnson Ellis
FS John Hiram

Halifax Blizzard

Star Players:
QB Terry Grayson
TE Johnny Farmer

Ranoria City Silver

Star Players:
QB Thorn Davis

Ranoria City Falcons
Calgary Stampede

List of Ranorian Football League Champions

1964 - Richardson Fenrirs (8-2) - The first ever championship was won by a historically good team. Go figure.
1965 - Pittsburgh Ironmen (9-1) - A rematch of the first ever championship, but the Fenrirs scored 2 fewer points this go around.
1967 - Philadelphia Phalanx (8-2) - The Phalanx broke through the duopoly with a gritty defense led by DE Telvis Holland.
1968 - Yellowknife Wraiths (8-2) - The new forward pass was used 4 times a game in an ingenious system.
1969 - Ranoria City Silver (9-1) - Cash was easy to come by in a big city. Stacked roster, QB Gunter Klaus and the league's best running back, James Springborn. Springborn turned in a 1,000 yard campaign in ten games.
1970 - Ranoria City Silver (10-0) - Team sported league's best RB 2 years in a row, and a stacked roster to boot. Springborn averaged 5.2 yards per carry.
1971 - Ranoria City Silver (9-1) - The hat trick led to discussions of a salary cap for the first time. Springborn carried the team once again, winning a second MVP.
1972 - Ranoria City Silver (10-1) - The league expanded, and implemented a salary cap after this season
1973 - Madison Gladiators (8-3) - Truly established the mean, tough culture of the Fenrirs
1974 - Ranoria City Silver (9-2) - With a stacked roster left over from pre-salary cap era, they had one more run. James Springborn popped off a record 1,171 yards and 14 touchdowns with an extended slate, his final MVP season.
1975 - Philadelphia Phalanx (6-5) - Dubbed 'the worst championship team ever, with QB Karl Volt at the helm. Volt won MVP, which was at the time voted for after the championship game.
1976 - Pittsburgh Ironmen (8-3) - Team happened upon a track star and put him at RB. Sweeps became more common. Shawn Schilder, the running back, ended up tearing his ACL in the championship game however.
1977 - Madison Gladiators (9-3) - QB Tony Grim led the squad to a ring, and was the 2nd QB to win MVP after Karl Volt's 1975 season.
1978 - Herot Paladins (8-4) - QB Otto Carthage passed a league high 19 times per game in his final season. However, it was running back Thaddeus Bertholdt who carried the offense, with 945 yards.
1979 - Philadelphia Phalanx (10-2) - Karl Volt delivered his team a second championship ring, and earned an MVP. This time with a better team, and 1,400 yards.
1980 - Massachusetts Pioneers (11-3) - Hermann Mansfried, at QB, did just enough to help win a with a DL consisting of Heubert Mann, Lennart Brack, Thomas 'Brawler' Kandler, and Artur Breuer. Became known as the Fearsome Foursome.
1981 - Richardson Fenrirs (10-4) - Another championship, with an all time RB in Carter Blackman leading the charge Blackman won his first MVP.
1982 - Halifax Blizzard (11-3) An offensively minded team won its first every championship
1983 - Edmunton Eagles (12-2) RB Vice Jackson's debut season was a championship for this football team
1984 - Minnesota Redwolves (11-3) - Defense led by nasty ILB Dyonte Adams' 200 tackles was untouchable, even with QB Hans pillar turning the ball over constantly.
1985 - New Jersey Marauders (11-3) - A three headed running attack had too much variety for everyone else. Roman Fiefer (670 yards), Felix Sabina (466 yards) and Sascha Elvila (309 yards) all served their purpose in the offense.
1986 - Massachusetts Pioneers (10-4) With a 245 pound, one year wonder runner...well, it was an odd season. Thomas 'Brawler' Kandler won MVP with 16 sacks and 8 forced fumbles for this team, with the rest of the foursome behind him.
1987 - Richardson Fenrirs (13-1) - MVP runner Carter blackman set the RFL record for rushing yards in a 14 game season, with 2,002 yards and a strong 15 touchdowns.
1988 - Minnesota Redwolves (10-4) - RB Darrius Foreman led an improved offense, while Dyonte Adams led the league's 2nd best defense.
1989 - Baltimore Hawks (13-1) 3rd year RB Vice Jackson still holds records for 2,050 yards and 21 TDs on the ground. Take into account, this was in a 14 game season, but he won MVP, rightfully.
1990 - Nashville Sabercats (11-3) Young QB Bert Flowers leaned on a strong running attack, rarely throwing the ball.
1991 - New Jersey Marauders (9-5) - With two of their old triad left, those men made their last hurrah count. The Marauders' Felix Sabina and Sascha Elvila combined for 1,500 yard and 23 touchdowns from scrimmage.
1992 - Edmunton Eagles (13-1) - A historically dominant year, but the Eagles have had one playoff run since.
1993 - Philadelphia Phalanx (8-6) - Snuck into the playoff after star RB Carter Blackman was hurt, but he returned for the playoffs, and averaged 185 yards per game over that three game stretch. Cemented his HOF status.
1994 - Baltimore Hawks (10-4) - Another dominant year turned in by Vice Jackson, another Hawks championship. Jackson did not win MVP, however. That honor went to QB Bert Flowers, as voting was now before the playoffs. Young FS Thomas Hall turned in a 7 INT season, and had one in each post season game.
1995 - Hamilton Tigers (11-5) - Luca Warren, the team's quarterback, won them this title despite missing out on the MVP award.
1996 - Baltimore Hawks (12-4) - Vice Jackson's last ride. Tore an rotator cuff in semifinal, still earned championship MVP. This was piled onto both a sports hernia and a broken left wrist. Hall carried the defense as the DPOY, with 7 interceptions.
1998 - Ranoria City Falcons(13-3) - Art Torrent's 20 TD passes led to an unstoppable aerial attack. This was the 4th time a QB ever won MVP.
1998 - Georgia Thrashers (11-5) - They lived up to their name, with the biggest combined OL and DL in history. 1,950 pounds of lineman on offense, and 1,320 on defense. No speed, but in a run first league, that wasn't very important.
1999 - Madison Gladiators (12-4) - The team's defensive, run first philosophy proved fruitful here. The team totaled 40 sacks and 25 interceptions in the regular season, 8 from DPOY free agent Thomas Hall.
2000 - Vancouver Yeti (11-5) - A tough team led by MVP runner Miller smith, who churned out 1,970 yards and 18 TDs rushing, the Yeti simply bulldozed anyone in their path.
2001 - Georgia Thrashers (11-5) - A 5th straight 11-5 season, and their second ring, with a simple strategy of weights. Unfortunately, their lines fell apart due to varying health concerns catching up with them, an ongoing problem.
2002 - Calgary Stampede (12-4) - A bunch of speedy DBs took advantage of poorly designed Ranorian passing games. The stampede simply loaded their backfield with athletes and watched the magic happen.
2003 - Vancouver Yeti (10-6) - Miller Smith's last elite season turned in the Yeti's last championship to date.
2004 - Ranoria City Falcons (12-4) - QB Art Torrent took home the gold and led his team with more than 3,000 pass yards. If most RFL teams weren't so stubborn, this would have been the dawn of the passing era.
2005 - Mississippi Bootleggers: A traditional, strong ground game and stout defense won out in '05. Elliot Rienhard, DE, with 13 sacks was pivotal to get past Torrent's Falcons.
2006 - Ranoria City Falcons (14-2) - Torrent broke his own records with 3,791 yards and 24 TDs. Beat out rival Luca Warren, whom was emerging as the 1B passer to Torrent's 1A. FA signing Thomas Hall pivotal on defense.
2007 - Hamilton Tigers (13-3) - QB Luca Warren, MVP, emerged in his own right, with 3,809 yards and 23 TDs. It seemed that whomever won MVP between these two would win the title as well.
2008 - RC Falcons (13-3) - The rivals continued to go at it. Warren won MVP, but it was Torrent's 4th title. Safety Thomas Hall picked off Luca Warren 3 times in the championship game.
2009 - Hamilton Tigers (14-2) - Luca Warren with his 3rd straight MVP would have the last laugh with a record 4,010 yard campaign. Warren's second title and MVP.
2010 - Pittsburgh Ironmen (11-5) - RB Tucker Foscarelli with second most TD runs ever, 19. He, of course, won the league's MVP award.
2011 - Kentucky Colts (12-4) - One of the franchise's 7 all time winning seasons somehow ended in a championship. Best player, DE Jonas Armbruster, with 6 playoff sacks.
2012 - Richardson Fenrirs: With all time RB Henry Johnson's rookie year, the franchise secured another title run
2013 - Pittsburgh Ironmen (12-4) - In QB Terry Grayson's career year, the Ironmen won their 5th title. Knocked off rookie quarterback Bo Callahan.
2014 - Richardson Fenrirs (11-5) - The Fenrirs fifth title. Career year from Henry Johnson, with a record 2,014 rushing yards, 20 total TDs, and an MVP.
2015 - North Carolina Dreadnoughts (12-4) - 3rd year Callahan's passing attack was too much to handle. Callahan would win his first MVP award and championship. RB
2016 - North Carolina Dreadnoughts (12-4) - Bo Callahan, even after the league adjusted, was just too much. The quarterback beat out newcomer Derek McNair, a mobile passer out of Richardson.
2017 - Memphis Steamers (12-4) - Derek McNair's talent was enough to secure the team's first ever title. He was of similar talent to Callahan, if a different breed of passer. RB Elijah Sampson won MVP with 2,010 total yards and 20 TDs.
2018 - Illinois Farmers (10-6)- An overall solid squad with the first of a new generation of QB, Paul Verona. The team was anchored by its cornerbacks, Davon Stovall and Alexander von Arris, two HoF caliber guys.
2019 - Memphis Steamers (11-5) - Star QB Derek McNair dragged his squad to their second ever championship. He would rush over 1,100 yards while passing for more than 3,000.
2020 - Pittsburgh Ironmen (12-4) - In a league moving to the passing game, the Ironmen were one step ahead with developing a pass rush. They sold the bank to aquire DL Angelo Gordon, and thwarted rookie QB, MVP, John Garrett.
2021 - North Carolina Dreadnaughts (14-2) - MVP Bo Callahan's historic, career season resulted in a championship. He openly stated that John Garrett's 4,350 yard, 40 TD season motivated him in his 5,050 yard, 40 TD warpath of a campaign.
2022 - Pittsburgh Ironmen (13-3) -Defense wins championships. Terry Grayson, the team's former franchise QB whom they traded in a package for Gordon, opposed them in the title game. He did well, but not quite good enough.
2023 - Indianapolis Hogs (16-0) -Legendary playoff run by second time MVP quarterback John Garrett. 41-34 over McNair in the semifinal and 42-41 over Callahan in the title game. Garrett shattered the touchdown pass record with 47.
2024 - Yellowknife Wraiths (12-4) -Led by DPOY Zach Skinner's 17 sacks, the Wraiths came in and stole a ring from a heavy favorite in Paul Verona's Farmers. Skinner notched two sacks in the final.
2025 - Pittsburgh Ironmen (12-4) -The Ironmen easily assembled the best pass rush the league has ever seen by signing monstrous Vontaze Ahn from Quebec to team up with Angelo Gordon. The defensive staff got creative, with beastly second year DE Malik Sherman coming off a torn ACL and vet Jarrett Hauptmann miffed at a lack of snaps, but no one was stopping that foursome.
2026 - Indianapolis Hogs (10-6) -A far cry from his 16-0 campaign but Garrett stormed through the playoffs - capped off with a walk-off TD pass in OT of the semifinal - until running into Ahn and Gordon's Ironmen. They held Farmboy to 12 points, but their own offense wasn't up to snuff, putting up just 9 in a slugfest of a game.
2027 - Dietrich Dynamos (15-1) -The beginning of a dominant stretch by Deondre Rhine and co. With WR Alessandra Mio and TE Johnny Farmer for the star quarterback to throw to, the Dynamos rolled their way to a title.
2028 - Dietrich Dynamos (14-2) -Dietrich looked to be in the midst of a dynasty, going 29-3 in the past two regular seasons with back to back titles, and Deondre Rhine managed to keep up his torrid pace.
2029 - Highport Hawks (12-4) - Finally! With the Hawks drafting RB Herman Whitworth to pair up with old KCU teammate Byron Joseph, this was almost a foregone conclusion. Whitworth dominated on the ground to help set up an unstoppable play action attack en route to the Hawks' first ever title.
2030 - Ranoria City Falcons (11-1-4) - It took Sarai Gwenderyn just two years to stake her claim on RFL history. Guiding the second best offense in the league, she put up 131 points in 3 playoff games.
2031 - Ranoria City Silver (9-7) - lo and behold, Thorn Davis finally broke through. With KKA at wideout, this duo finally secured a championship on their third attempt.
2032: Highport Hawks: With a third championship appearance and second victory in four years, Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth have earned their place among the RFL's elite - but it was Robert Lawrence, with game-clinching strip sacks in each of the last two games of the season, who's heroics will not be forgotten in this postseason.
2033: Berlin Snow Bears: an elefriend-loaded team with a stout defense and a great draft class coming into their prime managed to win the big one.
2034: Ranoria City Falcons: Sarai Gwenderyn and Alessandra Mio won their second championship, overcoming Tim Hunt and Deshawn Fredericks in dominant fashion.
2035: Fiston Redwolves: By signing Hoy, the Redwolves made themselves the hottest name in town. They rode their MVP back to a championship, overcoming Mariana OROY winning Thomas Fantikos in the process.
2036: RC Falcons: Second title in three years for the Falcons, this time coming over the Redwolves in their bid to go back-to-back. Gwenderyn hasn’t lost a playoff game in three seasons with the win, edging out the Redwolves in Proko’s final campaign.
2037: Fiston Redwolves: Is anyone else allowed to win these things? The Redwolves tore their way through the playoffs before making one less mistake in a defense slugfest of a championship to win it 14-3.
2038: Madison Gladiators: Overcoming the hellbent Pittsburgh Ironmen, Benoit Youngblood won it all in year two, leading a team that had gone just shy of four decades without a championship to their name. Knocked off the world's top quarterback in SMBG to get there.

Some Records and Stuff

Passing

Rushing/Receiving
Career
Rushing Yards:

Rushing Yards:
1- Henry Johnson: 15,761
2- Carter Blackman: 15,442
3- Miller Smith: 13,917
4- Vice Jackson: 13,884
5- James Springborn: 13,770
6- Karver Francis: 13,120

Rushing TDs:

Rushing TDs:
1- Carter Blackman: 160
2- Vice Jackson: 155
3- Miller Smith: 151
4- Neville Terry: 132
5- Henry Johnson: 130
6- James Springborn: 120

YPC(600+ career carries):

1- Carter Blackman: 5
2- Miller Smith: 4.9
3- Tucker Foscarelli: 4.8
4- James Springborn: 4.7
5: Vice Jackson: 4.7

Season
Rushing Yards:

Rushing Yards:
1- Vice Jackson: 2,050(1989)
2- Henry Johnson: 2,014 (2014)
3- Carter Blackman: 2,002(1987)
4- Miller Smith: 1,970 (2000)
5- Elijah Sampson: 1,840 (2017)

Rushing TDs:

1- Vice Jackson: 21 (1989)
2- Tucker Foscarelli: 19 (2010)
3- Miller Smith: 18 (2000)
4- Henry Johnson: 18 (2014)
5- Elijah Sampson: 17 (2017)

YPC(200+ rushing attempts):

1- Miller Smith: 6.6 (2000)
2- Tucker Foscarelli: 6.5 (2014)
3- Carter Blackman: 6.3 (1987)
4- Tucker Foscarelli: 6.0 (2010)
5- Neville Terry: 5.8 (2001)

Career

Passing Yards:
Passing Yards:
1- Bo Callahan: 47,160 set: 2023
2- Terry Grayson: 46,000 set: 2023
3- Paul Verona: 42,222 set: 2023
4- Luca Warren: 39,451 set: 2012
5- Art Torrent: 38,013 set: 2012
6- Tony Grim: 29,792 set: 1994
7- Derek McNair: 29,170 set: 2023
8- Bert Flowers: 28,013 set: 2002
9-Elias Turner: 27,740 set: 2001
10- Karl Volt: 27,009 set: 1980
11- Otto Carthage: 25,931 set: 1978
12- Hans Pillar: 24,992 set: 1981

Passing TDs:

1: Terry Grayson: 331 set: 2023
2- Bo Callahan: 322 set: 2023
3- Art Torrent: 290 set: 2012
4- Luca Warren: 285 set: 2012
5- Paul Verona: 263 set: 2023
6- Tony Grim: 215 set: 1994
7-Bert Flowers: 210 set: 2002
T8-Elias Turner: 204 set: 2001
T8-Hans Pillar: 204 set: 1990
10- Karl Volt: 200 set: 1980
11- Hermann Mansfried: 194 set: 1975
12- Derek McNair: 190 set: 2023
12-Otto Carthage: 189 set: 1978

Passing INTs:

1- Tony Grim: 250 set: 1994
2: Terry Grayson: 223 set: 2022
2- Elias Turner: 212 set: 2001
3- Bert Flowers: 207 set: 2002
4- Paul Towers: 200 set: 1981
5- Manfried Cowl: 198 set: 1950
6- Otto Carthage: 184 set: 1978
7- Herman Mansfried: 179 set: 1975
8- Gunter Klaus: 177 set: 1980
9- Hans Pillar: 175 set: 1990
10-Karl Volt: 170 set: 1980

Passing Yards:

1: Bo Callahan, 5,050 (2021)
2: Bo Callahan: 4,742 (2017)
3: John Garrett: 4,350 (2020)
4: Luca Warren: 4,010 (2009)
5: Art Torrent: 4,007 (2008)
6: Bo Callahan: 4,687 (2016)
7: John Garrett: 4,625 (2021)
8: Luca Warren: 3,865 (2006)
9: Luca Warren: 3,809 (2007)
10: Art Torrent: 3,791 (2006)
11: Art Torrent: 3,721 (2004)
12: Art Torrent: 3,692 (2005)
13: Luca Warren: 3,602 (2006)

Passing TDs:

1: John Garrett, 47 (2023)
2: John Garrett, 40 (2020)
3: Bo Callahan, 40 (2021)
4: Bo Callahan: 38 (2018)
5: John Garrett: 35 (2021)
6: Bo Callahan: 34 (2016)
7: Luca Warren: 31 (2009)
8: Art Torrent: 30 (2008)
9: Luca Warren: 29 (2006)
10: Art Torrent: 24 (2006)

Defense
Career:
Sacks:

1: Justin Kearse: 140
2: Thomas 'Brawler' Kandler: 137.5
3: Jasen Gorbin: 129
4: Lennart Brack: 115
5: Artur Breuer: 112
6: Dameon Bass: 110
7: Heubert Mann: 108
8: Thomas Mann: 99
9: Telvis Holland: 98
10: Carlos Johnson: 97.5

Tackles:

1: Norman Goldfield: 2,042
2: Trey Draco: 1,901
3: Karlos Smoth: 1,844
4: Rannier Drake: 1,792
5: Allvince Graham: 1,702
6: Varrien Kelly: 1,641
7: Travis Schmidt: 1,599
8: Dyonte Adams: 1,432
9: Zaheer Cannon: 1,427
10: Corey Davidson: 1,412

Interceptions:

1: Thomas Hall, 62
2: Louise Jackson, 59
3: Varnon Curtis, 54
4: Lyman Knight, 52
5: Carl Hasenclever, 51
6: Jakob Ingram, 50
7: Zhaire Norman, 47
8: Vennie Jackson, 46
9: Austin Vannek, 44
10: Trenton Quinn, 44

World Bowl

The Ranorian National Team, now known as the Ranorian Krauts, participates in the World Bowl, and is a separate entity from the Ranorian Football League. In world bowl XXXII, the Memphis Steamers participated, though most of their better players opted out. Derek McNair was the starting quarterback for all World Bowl games, with the exception of World Bowl XXXVI, up until his death after matchday 5 of World Bowl 40.

Team Records:
World Bowl XXXII: 3-5
World Bowl XXXIV: 5-4-1
World Bowl XXXVI: 7-3 (0-1 playoffs, eliminated vs Pridnestrovia)
World Bowl XXXVII 6-4 (3-2 each group stage) 2-1 playoffs (New England, Banija), eliminated in semifinals by Pridnestrovia
World Bowl XXXVIII 4-2
World Bowl XXXIX: 10-0 (0-1 playoffs)
World Bowl XL: 10-0 (2-1 playoffs)
World Bowl XLI: 9-1 (1-1 playoffs)
World Bowl XLII: 7-1 (4-0 playoffs)
World Bowl XLIII: 8-2 (3-0 playoffs)

Derek McNair: 31-15-1
-Group Stage: 29-13-1
-Knockout Stage: 2-2

Terry Grayson: 7-4
-Group Stage: 7-3
-Knockout Stage: 0-1

Baker Owens: 2-0
-Group Stage: 2-0
-Knockout Stage: 0-0

Jeremiah Quill: 5-2
-Group Stage: 3-1
-Knockout Stage: 2-1

John Garrett: 27-5
Group Stage: 22-4
Knockout Stage: 7-1

Stats:
World Bowl 41: 80/114, 1,891 yards, 19 TD, 2 INT, 19 carries, 79 yards

Playoffs:
National Conference:

Ranorian Conference
1: Ranoria City Silver (15-1)
2: Yellowknife Wraiths (12-4)
3: Edmunton Eagles (10-6)
4: Pittsburgh Ironmen (10-6)
5: Halifax Blizzard (10-6)
6: Philadelphia Phalanx (9-7)

6:

1: Illinois Farmers (13-3)
2: Richardson Fenrirs (12-4)
3: Madison Gladiators (12-4)
4: Nashville Sabercats (12-4)
5: Indianapolis Hogs (11-5)
6: Memphis Steamers (9-7)

First Round:

Ranorian
Pittsburgh Ironmen 3 - 35 Halifax Blizzard
HLX QB Terry Grayson: 19/38, 255yards, 3 TD, 2 INT, sacked 1 time
PIT DE Angelo Gordon: 2 tackles, 1 QB hit, 1 Pdef

Edmunton Eagles 17 - 17 Philadelphia Phalanx (23-17 2OT)
EDM HB Sampson: 26 carries, 108 yards, 1 TD(forced OT)
PHI HB Workman: 19 carries, 96 yards

National
Nashville Sabercats 37 - 23 Indianapolis Hogs
IND QB Garrett: 35/47, 373 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT, sacked 5 times
NSH QB Queen: 23/35, 338 yards, 4 TD, 1 INT, sacked 1 time

Madison Gladiators 40 - 0 Memphis Steamers
MAD CB Sleight: 10 tackles, 2 TFL, INT
MEM QB Berg: 6/22, 29 yards, 3 INT, sacked 1 time

Quarterfinals
National

Ranorian
Ranoria City Silver 27 - 28 Halifax Blizzard
HLX TE Farmer: 8/11 receptions, 80 yards
RCS QB Davis: 14/26, 156 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT, 10 rush, 40 yards

Yellowknife Wraiths 12 - 6 Edmunton Eagles
YKW QB Applehort: 15/28, 156, sacked 1 time
EDM RB Sampson: 15 carries, 69 yards, 3 receptions, 32 yards

Illinois Farmers 46 - 21 Nashville Sabercats
ILL QB Verona: 32/50, 419 yards, 5 TD, sacked 4 times
NSH QB Queen: 16/26, 214 yards, 1 TD, sacked 1 time

Richardson Fenrirs 9 - 8 Madison Gladiators
RCH S Hiram: 13 tackles, 1 TFL, 2 Pdef
MAD S Wolfson: 7 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 Pdef




Conference Championships
National

Ranorian
Yellowknife Wraiths 37 - 16 Halifax Blizzard
YKW QB Applehort: 16/22, 233 yards, 3 TD
HLX QB Grayson: 19/32, 212 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT

Illinois Farmers 36 - 10 Richardson Fenrirs
ILL QB Verona: 25/47 390 yards, 4 TD, 3 INT, 3 sacks
RCH S Hiram: 8 tackles, 1 TFL, 3 INT

Ranorian Football League Champiosnhip

Yellowknife Wraiths 36 - 13 Illinois Farmers
YKW DE Skinner: 7 tackles, 2 sacks
ILL QB Verona: 26/45, 260 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT, 3 sacks
Championship MVP: Zach Skinner

1st Team All-Pro

2nd Team All-Pro

QB Terry Grayson (HLX)
RB Vice Jackson III (MEM)
RB Carlson Katterfield (NJ)
WR Quentin Beal (HLX)
WR Larry Foster (NSH)
TE Brennen Demby (RCS)
OL Kevin Eakin (NSH)
OL David McDaniel (HLX)
OL Kenneth Gregory (HLX)
OL Kitt Taylor (HLX)
OL Brett Anthony (HLX)
DL Kevin Paige (NSH)
DL Kingsley Walker (MAD)
DL Jordan Hall (NSH)
DL John Jenerou (NSH)
LB Michael Victor (NSH)
LB Jalen Trice (MAD)
LB Dalton Thornton (MAD)
S Tim Morse (RCS)
S Ryan Taumoelau (RCS)
CB Devante Robinson (RCS)
CB Cameron Barbosa (NYL)
K Uriah Paige (HLX)
P Carson Pressley (MSP)
KR Darryl Dixon (RCF)
PR Larry Foster (NSH)

QB Thorn Davis (RCS)
RB Marquice Ward (RCS)
RB Gavin McLaurin (RCH)
WR Earl Beets (IND)
WR Kieran Kweo Atkison (RCS)
TE Johnny Farmer (HLX)
OL Sean Rowan (HLX)
OL Justin Loftus (RCS)
OL Austin Wilson (RCS)
OL Rico Fuqua (RCS)
OL Greg Whitfield (RCS)
DL Douglas Starling (RCH)
DL Angelo Gordon (PIT)
DL William Teller (MAD)
DL Jarrett Hauptmann (PIT)
LB Solomon Castle (RCS)
LB Johnson Ellis (RCH)
LB John Evans (NSH)
S Stephon Haggerty (NSH)
S John Hiram (RCH)
CB Lance Peake (NYL)
CB Parker Fernandez (IND)
K Jordan Edwards (EDM)
P Jeremy Sears (CLE)
KR Javier Gilmore (IND)
PR Evan Corner (HAM)

Statistical Leaders:

Passing Yards                Passing TDs     
Terry Grayson: 4657   Thorn Davis: 35/13     Terry Grayson: 8.4
Paul Verona:   4339   Terry Grayson: 35/14     John Garrett: 7.4
Bo Callahan:   4155   Bo Callahan: 34/17     Ballast Queen: 7.1
Thorn Davis:   3481   Paul Verona: 30/20     Thorn Davis: 6.9
Ballast Queen: 3226   Ballast Queen: 27/18     Paul Verona: 6.6

Rushing Yards     TDs
Vice Jackson III: 1778     Vice Jackson III: 14
Emilio Annaise:   1692     Gavin McLaurin: 13
Gavin McLaurin:   1538     Emilio Annaise: 11
Melvin Strong:    1464     Carlson Katterfield: 11
Elijah Sampson:   1402     Elijah Sampson: 10

Receiving Yards             TDs          Catches
Johnny Farmer: 1275     Kieran Kweo-Atkisonr: 15   Earl Beets: 97
Earl Beets: 1255     Quentin Beal: 11     Johnny Farmer: 89
Quentin Beal: 1124    Jeremy Russ: 10     Cole Flood: 88
Kieran Kweo-Atkison: 1116   Earl Beets: 9     Caleb Dobbins: 87
Caleb Dobbins: 1102     Johnny Farmer: 8     Kieran Kweo-Atkison: 86

Defensive Tackles     Sacks     INT
Ross Monarch: 174     Zach Skinner: 17     Cameron Barbosa: 7
Johnson Ellis: 160     Lamar Jones: 16     Judas Wolfson: 6
Solomon Castle: 160     Douglas Starling: 15     Larry Judge: 6
Chris Addison: 157     Angelo Gordon: 14     Clarence von Arris: 5
Travis Long: 151    Jacoby Wade: 13     Darnell Sleight: 5

Storylines:
An injured star and a rising one: John Garrett, in his 5th season, missed 6 games due to an injury that plagued him all year long. Garrett's Hogs would start 1-5 without him, but he came back. Despite a poor statline, he led them to a 9-1 finish before an untimely first round playoff exit. Garrett finished the season 215/346, career lows with 2,559 yards 18 touchdowns, and a career-high twelve interceptions.

Meanwhile rookie Ballast Queen, who had just returned home for his rookie season after playing for Cosumar's Stoneshore Bruins, led a 12-4 Nashville Sabercats team. Queen had a strong debut, with 3,226 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 18 turnovers. Garrett, despite being injured, played well, finishing a bit shy of 400 yards with a pair of scores and a pick. But Queen was unstoppable, posting a four touchdown game and easily clearing 300 yards passing. Queen would be knocked off by Verona's Farmers, and their top corner duo, in the next round.

Halifax's offensive explosion, 1 and done for 15-1 Silver: Veteran Terry Grayson had a career year, tossing a league high 4,647 yards and 35 touchdowns against just 13 picks. His top receiver, Johnny Farmer, hauled in a league-leading 1,275 yards and 5th in the league with 8 TDs. WR Quentin Beal was also a benefactor, finishing #5 in the league with 1,124 yards, and tied the league lead with 11 scores.

They traveled to Ranoria City for the first round of the playoffs. The Silver were 15-1, and Thorn Davis had tied for the league lead with 35 touchdowns and 13 picks, while putting up 525 and 5 scores on the ground. It was all for naught, however, as Halifax stunned them in the Superdome, 28-27. This came after a mauling of Angelo Gordon's 10-6 Ironmen. Gordon, who finished with 14 sacks, failed to get to Grayson even once. Halifax would be beaten by Yellowknife in the conference championship.

Gordon's running mate, Jarrett Hauptmann, had a strong season, with 10 sacks and a career high 88 tackles to his name. And while Pittsbrugh spent a first round pick on Richardson defensive end Malik Sherman, Sherman was unable to participate at all, after tearing his ACL and cartilage during NSCF XXIII. The hope is that, next season, Sherman will be able to contribute at least.

Verona's second championship run: With a strong team at his back, Paul Verona put together a strong campaign, tossing 4,339 yards and 30 scores against 20 picks. He fell just short of a title, however, as Yellowknife's usually poor squad were unstoppable this season.

The champions: Behind edge rusher Zach Skinner's league high 17 sacks, the Yellowknife Wraiths blazed a path straight to a 12-4 championship run. QB Ryan Applehort chipped in as well, with 2,105 yards, 15 scores, and just 13 picks.

Revitalized runners: Vice Jackson III led the league in rushing in his second season, leading the Memphis Steamers, whom had lost Derek McNair after his tragic death during World Bowl XL, to the playoffs. There, they were absolutely mauled.

Meanwhile, Elijah Sampson turned in one of his best seasons since his younger days, with 1,400 yards and a touchdown in the first round of the playoffs to force overtime, a game his Edmunton Eagles would later win.

Playoffs:
National Conference:

Ranorian Conference
1: Halifax Blizzard (15-1)
2: North Carolina Dreadnaughts (14-2)
3: Philadelphia Phalanx (12-4)
4: Dietrich Dynamos (8-8)
5: Ranoria City Silver (13-3)
6: Pittsburgh Ironmen (10-6)

6:

1: Madison Gladiators (11-5)
2: Nashville Sabercats (10-6)
3: Illinois Farmers (9-7)
4: Richardson Fenrirs (8-7-1)
5: Indianapolis Hogs (11-5)
6: Herot Paladins (11-5)

Conference Championships
Pittsburgh Ironmen 23-8 Ranoria City Silver
Nashville Sabercats 19-3 Madison Gladiators

Ranorian Football League Champiosnhip

Pittsburgh Ironmen 16 - 0 Nashville Sabercats
PIT DE Angelo Gordon: 10 tackles, 2 TFL, 2 sacks
Championship MVP: Angelo Gordon

1st Team All-Pro

2nd Team All-Pro

QB Terry Grayson (HLX)
RB Elijah Sampson (EDM)
RB Chris Workman (PHI)
WR Javier Gilmore (IND)
WR Alessandra Mio (DTR)
TE Brennen Demby (RCS)
OL Michael Riggins (MTL)
OL Justin Loftus (RCS)
OL Austin Wilson (RCS)
OL Rico Fuqua (RCS)
OL Greg Whitfield (RCS)
DL Jeremy Conway (GA)
DL Frank Gates (HLX)
DL Vontaze Ahn (PIT)
DL Jarrad Dale (HLX)
LB Ramon Moreland (HLX)
LB J.J. Jackson (HLX)
LB Josh Samuels (HLX)
S Nick Carpenter (PHI)
S Tyler Morris (PHI)
CB Cal Eubanks (PHI)
CB Ervin Bowen (PHI)
K Brian Ward (MAS)
P Carson Pressley (MSP)
KR Paul Van Dyke (WIN)
PR Joseph Johnson (MAD)

QB Thorn Davis (RCS)
RB Melvin Strong (DET)
WR Kieran Kweo-Atkison (RCS)
WR Larry Foster (NSH)
WR Josh Tuitupou (HLX)
TE Johnny Farmer (HLX)
OL Kevin Eakin (NSH)
OL Michael Almond (HLX)
OL Sean Rowan (HLX)
OL David McDaniel (HLX)
OL Kenneth Gregory (HLX)
DL Lamar Jones (MSP)
DL Angelo Gordon (PIT)
DL Emmanuel Miller (NC)
DL Malik Sherman (PIT)
LB Douglas Starling (RCH)
LB Sam Judd (PIT)
LB Granger Harris (NY)
S Shawn Leake (MSP)
S Kevin Jacoby (IND)
CB Brandon Schwartz (MEM)
CB Nick Case (VNC)
K Tori Lee (PHI)
P Antoine Cunningham (LOR)
KR Derek McReynolds (BAL)
PR Andre Nelson (YKW)

Statistical Leaders:

Passing Yards                Passing TDs     
Bo Callahan: 4468   Bo Callahan: 37/21     Thorn Davis: 7.8
Paul Verona:   4182   Terry Grayson: 35/11     Ballast Queen: 7.7
John Garrett:   3768   John Garrett: 34/15     Terry Grayson 7.5
Terry Grayson:   3765   Thorn Davis: 33/9     Paul Verona: 6.8
Thorn Davis: 3626   Ballast Queen: 32/11     Bo Callahan: 6.6

Rushing Yards     TDs
Emilio Annaise: 1781     Vice Jackson III: 15
Melvin Strong:   1611     Emilio Annaise: 14
Vice Jackson III:   1522     Elijah Sampson: 13
Elijah Sampson:   1499     Gavin McLaurin: 12
Chris Workman:    1430     Melvin Strong: 12

Receiving Yards             TDs
Kieran Kweo-Atkison: 1402     Kieran Kweo-Atkison: 15   
Larry Foster: 1272     Cody Baker: 10     
Kyle Hawkins: 1165    Alessandra Mio: 10 
Alessandra Mio: 1148   Johnny Farmer: 10    
Johnny Farmer: 1033     Kyle Hawkins: 9

Defensive Tackles     Sacks     INT
Ross Monarch: 167     Angelo Gordon: 17     Xavier Yannick-Lotz: 8
Travis Long: 165     Zach Skinner: 16     Judas Wolfson: 6
Solomon Castle: 155     Douglas Starling: 13     Larry Judge: 5
Chris Addison: 151     Vontaze Ahn: 12     Clarence von Arris: 4
Johnson Ellis: 150    Jacoby Wade: 12     Darnell Sleight: 4

Storylines:
Rookie Revamp: After the Dietrich Dynamos managed to snag both Alessandra Mio and Deondre Rhine in the first round of the draft, their offense exploded. Rhine - predictably, turned the ball over plenty of times, but Alessandra Mio was an instant star, earning offensive rookie of the year honors and 2nd team all pro, ending 4th in the league in receiving yards (1,148) and 3rd in receiving touchdowns (10). Ironically, Ricky Cappa - who was taken at #1 overall ahead of Deondre Rhine, tossed 20 interceptions to just a dozen passing touchdowns.

The Two Headed Monster: In a stunning move, veteran pass rusher Vontaze Ahn came over from Quebec to sign on with the Pittsburgh Ironmen alongside Angelo Gordon. Together, and with Jarrett Hauptmann and Malik Sherman also on the defensive front, the four would total 51 sacks just on their own - outside the rest of the squad, and spearhead a 10-6 unit that would bring down multiple star quarterbacks - including leage MVP Thorn Davis - in stifling fashion on their way to a championship. Gordon lead the charge with a 17 sack, DPOY campaign, and he and Ahn cost the team a combined 420 penalty yards mostly on roughing the passer, unsportsmanlike conduct, and unneccesarry roughness calls, but in the end it was enough to bring a third ring to the Gordon-era Ironmen.

A Thorn in their side: 3,626 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. Chip in another 549 and 4 on the ground and you've got a 13-3 MVP. Thorn Davis showed out in his second season and showed the world he's ready to be talked about among the best in the league.

Emilio's outburst: Emilio Annaise would lead the league in rushing with 1,781 yards and a dozen touchdown runs in a season that everyone saw coming. Rumor has it he has a world bowl run on his mind.

[Ranoria]

Ranorian College Football

Levels:
Ranorian College Football is, unsurprisingly, the second most popular sport in the nation. Ranorian college football's highest levels can compete with those of any nation in the world, as demonstrated by three runner ups and one championship in the NSCF.

RCF, or Ranorian College Football, is divided into four classes. 1st class being the largest schools, such as Richardson University, Cold Hill University, the Ranoria State University, and Vricksinburg State University. These schools are the apex of collegiate football in the nation, and all have a shot at winning the domestic title. That said, there are many other programs at this level that are less notorious. Student athletes are allowed at this level to receive a full athletic scholarship.

The 2nd class occasionally mixes with the 1st, with high quality athletes and plenty of exciting, high level play. Generally one will see lower budgets from athletic departments and athletes who, while impressive, are not on top of the game. Student athletes are allowed at this level to receive a full athletic scholarship.

The 3rd class is the lowest in which athletes may receive significant athletic scholarships. Schools are limited in how much total cash they can offer to the entirety of the team, and are permitted only to pay for 75% of any one student-athlete's tuition, room and board, and other education-related expenses.

The 4th class features players who are, for the most part, playing as a hobby. Players may receive a hard cap of 5,000 from the athletic department towards their education expenses. Smaller teams that may consist of only 50 or so players.

The NSCF:

Currently, two Ranorian schools participate in the NSCF. The Richardson University Governors were the first to foray to the international stage, followed the next season by the Cold Hill University Buffalo. Both teams have seen a great degree of success on that stage.

The Governors have won the Big 8 Conference 4 times now in their 6 seasons, and were the NSCF runner ups in NSCF 19.

As for the Buffalo, they have won the Big 8 once and were the champions of NSCF 20, managing semifinal honors in NSCF 18 and 19, and runners up in NSCF 21. Neither team has ever had a season in which they didn't finish with a winning record.

The NSCF has also birthed one of the most exciting games for Ranorians to watch every season- The Rebel's Cannon Bowl. In week 13 of each NSCF season, Ranoria meets with a team that is now one of their biggest rivals. The Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder, one of the best teams in NSCF history. At first, these two teams traded wins. With both being at the top of their game, neither could overcome the other at home. However, the Blue Thunder won the Rebel's Cannon Bowl in both NSCF 20 and NSCF 21.

1st Class Conference Records
Conference Records

Northeastern Conference:
Passing Yards (Career): Derek McNair, Richardson University: 12,504 (3 seasons)
Passing Touchdowns (Career): John Garrett, Richardson University: 95 (2 seasons)
Passing Yards (Game): 511 (John Garrett, Richardson, vs NSCF competition)
Passing Touchdowns (Game): Bo Callahan, Vricksinburg State: 7
Passing Yards (Season): John Garrett, Richardson: 5,107, 2017
Passing Touchdowns (Season): John Garrett, Richardson: 52, 2017

Rushing Yards (Career): Vice Jackson, Vricksinburg State: 5,472 (3 seasons)
Rushing Touchdowns (Career): Vice Jackson, Vricksinburg State: 65 (3 seasons)
Rushing Yards (Game): Melvin Strong, Richardson: 272
Rushing Touchdowns (Game): Vice Jackson, Vricksinburg State. Derek McNair, Richarson: 4
Rushing Yards (Season): Vice Jackson, Vricksinburg State: 2,271 (1979)
Rushing Touchdowns (Season): Vice Jackson, Vricksinburg State: 20 (1978, 1979)
Receiving Yards (Career): Elk Gallowman, Nashville Tech, 3,791
Receiving Touchdowns(Career): Johnny Farmer, Richardson: 40 (3 seasons)
Receiving Yards(Game): Elk Gallowman, Nashville Tech: 193
Receiving Touchdowns(Game): Terrance Torch, Northwood College/Johnny Farmer, Richardson: 4
Receiving Yards(Season): Terrance Torch, Northwood College: 1,632, 1983
Receiving Touchdowns(Season): Johnny Farmer, 18, 2016

Yards/Scrimmage (Career): Vice Jackson, Vricksinburg State, 5,694
Yards/Scrimmage(Game): Melvin Strong, Richardson, 352
Yards/Scrimmage(Season): Vice Jackson, Vricksinburg State, 2,512

Defensive Sacks(Career): Jarrett Hauptmann, Richardson, 45.5 (3 seasons)
Defensive Sacks(Game): Jarrett Hauptmann, Richardson, 5.5
Defensive Sacks(Season): Jarrett Hauptmann, Richardson, 17 (2016)

Defensive INTs(Career): 30, Davon Stovall, Richardson,(4 seasons)
Defensive INTs(Game): Davon Stovall, Richardson, 3
Defensive INTs(Season): Davon Stovall, Richardson, 8

Tackles(Career):
Tackles(Game): Isaiah Bryce, Richardson, 23
Tackles(Season): Isaiah Bryce, Richardson, 155

Southern Conference (STC):

Passing Yards (Career): Paul Verona, 11,125 (4 seasons)
Passing Touchdowns (Career): Paul Verona, 99 (4 seasons)
Passing Yards (Game): Paul Verona, 522
Passing Touchdowns (Game): Tanner West, 6
Passing Yards (Season): Tanner West, 4,782 (1990)
Passing Touchdowns (Season): Tanner West, 41 (1990)

Rushing Yards (Career): Henry Johnson, 5,867 (4 seasons)
Rushing Touchdowns (Career): Henry Johnson, 70 (4 seasons)
Rushing Yards (Game): Tommy Parker, 301
Rushing Touchdowns (Game): Henry Johnson, 4
Rushing Yards (Season): Tommy Parker, 1,921 (2012)
Rushing Touchdowns (Season): Henry Johnson, 22 (2014)

Receiving Yards (Career): Connor Stills, Cold Hill: 4,100 (3 seasons)
Receiving Touchdowns(Career): Connor Stills, Cold Hill, 38 (3 seasons)
Receiving Yards(Game): Connor Stills, Cold Hill, 177
Receiving Touchdowns(Game): Connor Stills, Cold Hill, 3
Receiving Yards(Season): Connor Stills, Cold Hill, 1,700 (1977)
Receiving Touchdowns(Season): Connor Stills, Cold Hill, 18 (1977)

Yards/Scrimmage (Career): Henry Johnson, Quebec State, 5,204
Yards/Scrimmage(Game): Tommy Barker, Cold Hill, 408
Yards/Scrimmage(Season): Tommy Barker, Cold Hill, 2,410 (2012)

Defensive Sacks(Career): Angelo Gordon, Cold Hill, 50.5 (3 seasons)
Defensive Sacks(Game): Angelo Gordon, Cold Hill: 7
Defensive Sacks(Season): Angelo Gordon, Cold Hill: 25.5 (2018)

Defensive INTs(Career): Arthur Nystrom, 19 (3 seasons)
Defensive INTs(Game): Thomas Hall, 4 (1991)
Defensive INTs(Season): Austin Vannek, 8 *1999)

Tackles(Career): Angelo Gordon, Cold Hill, 306 (3 seasons)
Tackles(Game): Angelo Gordon, Cold Hill, 23
Tackles(Season): Angelo Gordon, Cold Hill, 121 (2018)



Power 10 (P10)
Passing Yards (Career): Art Torrent, 11,452 (3 seasons)
Passing Touchdowns (Career): Art Torrent, 125 (3 seasons)
Passing Yards (Game): Art Torrent, 500
Passing Touchdowns (Game): Art Torrent, 7
Passing Yards (Season): Art Torrent, 5,318, 1994
Passing Touchdowns (Season): Art Torrent, 49, 1994

Rushing Yards (Career): Carter Blackman, 4,106 (2 seasons)
Rushing Touchdowns (Career): Carter Blackman, 39 (2 seasons)
Rushing Yards (Game): Carter Blackman, 402
Rushing Touchdowns (Game): Carter Blackman, 5
Rushing Yards (Season): Carter Blackman, 2,503, 1963
Rushing Touchdowns (Season): Carter Blackman, 25, 1963

Receiving Yards (Career): Evander Krill, 44 (4 seasons)
Receiving Touchdowns(Career): Earl Beets, 35 (3 seasons)
Receiving Yards(Game): Earl Beets, 311
Receiving Touchdowns(Game): Evander Krill, 5
Receiving Yards(Season): Earl Beets, 1,804 (2014)
Receiving Touchdowns(Season): Earl Beets, 18 (2014)

Yards/Scrimmage (Career): Hubert Diamond, 4,572 (3 seasons)
Yards/Scrimmage(Game): Carter Blackman, 415
Yards/Scrimmage(Season): Carter Blackman, 2,591

Defensive Sacks(Career): Elliot Reinhard, 31 (3 seasons)
Defensive Sacks(Game): Karson Fitz, 4.5 (1997)
Defensive Sacks(Season): Elliot Reinhard, 15 (1997)

Defensive INTs(Career): Carl Hasenclever, 9, 1991
Defensive INTs(Game): Carl Hasenclever, 3, 1991
Defensive INTs(Season): Carl Hasenclever, 30 (4 seasons)

Tackles(Career): Norman Goldfield, 441, (4 seasons)
Tackles(Game): Simon Mause, 19
Tackles(Season): Norman Goldfield, 149

North Western Conference (NWC)
Passing Yards (Career): Luca Warren, 11,250 (4 seasons)
Passing Touchdowns (Career): Luca Warren, 102 (4 seasons)
Passing Yards (Game): Luca Warren, 504
Passing Touchdowns (Game): Luca Warren, 8
Passing Yards (Season): Luca Warren, 4,600 (1994)
Passing Touchdowns (Season): Luca Warren, 37 (1994)

Rushing Yards (Career): Tucker Foscarelli, 5,912 (3 seasons)
Rushing Touchdowns (Career): Tucker Foscarelli, 44
Rushing Yards (Game): De'shaun Wilkins, 247
Rushing Touchdowns (Game): Tucker Foscarelli/De'shaun Wilkins, 4 (1970/2002)
Rushing Yards (Season): Tucker Foscarelli: 2,410 (1970)
Rushing Touchdowns (Season): Deshaun Wilkins, 22, 1912

Receiving Yards (Career): Felix Benton, 3,450
Receiving Touchdowns(Career): Vincent Shonenkorb, 35
Receiving Yards(Game): Felix Benton, 245
Receiving Touchdowns(Game): Vincent Shonenkorb, 5
Receiving Yards(Season): 1,601 (2020)
Receiving Touchdowns(Season): Felix Benton, 17

Yards/Scrimmage (Career): Tucker Foscarelli, 4,101
Yards/Scrimmage(Game): Emilio Annaise, 301 (2019)
Yards/Scrimmage(Season): Emilio Annaise, 2,450 (2019)

Defensive Sacks(Career): Kellen Monroe, 31 (4 seasons)
Defensive Sacks(Game): Jonas Armbruster, 5 (2004)
Defensive Sacks(Season): Jonas Armbruster, 16 (2005)

Defensive INTs(Career): Louie Jackson, 20
Defensive INTs(Game): Louise Jackson, 4 (1978)
Defensive INTs(Season): Louie Jackson, 8 (1978)

Tackles(Career): Tanner Zweisson, 501
Tackles(Game): Shawn Sieger, 21 (2001)
Tackles(Season): Tanner Zweisson, 152 (2000)

Mid-Ranorian Conference (MRC)
Passing Yards (Career): Hunter Brown, 10,401 (3 seasons)
Passing Touchdowns (Career): Hunter Brown, 90 (3 seasons)
Passing Yards (Game): Alex Gorbin, 482 (2001)
Passing Touchdowns (Game): Hunter Brown, 5 (2009)
Passing Yards (Season): Alex Gorbin, 4,401 (2001)
Passing Touchdowns (Season): Hunter Brown, 34 (2009)

Rushing Yards (Career): Neville Terry, 4,001 (3 seasons)
Rushing Touchdowns (Career): Neville Terry, 40 (3 season)
Rushing Yards (Game): Keyshawn Davis, 288 (1987)
Rushing Touchdowns (Game): Keyshawn Davis, 4 (1987)
Rushing Yards (Season): Neville Terry, 1,996 (1998)
Rushing Touchdowns (Season): Neville Terry, 18, 1998

Receiving Yards (Career): Terell Forbes, 3,641
Receiving Touchdowns(Career): Terell Forbes, 30
Receiving Yards(Game): Terell Forbes, 1,731, 2002
Receiving Touchdowns(Game): Terell Forbes, 4, 2001
Receiving Yards(Season): Terell Forbes, 1,731, 2002
Receiving Touchdowns(Season): Felix Benton, 19, 2002

Yards/Scrimmage (Career): Neville Terry, 4,702 (3 seasons)
Yards/Scrimmage(Game): Keyshawn Davis, 334 (1987)
Yards/Scrimmage(Season): Neville Terry, 2,601 (1998)

Defensive Sacks(Career): Jasen Gorbin, 29, 3 seasons
Defensive Sacks(Game): Jasen Gorbin, 4 (1980)
Defensive Sacks(Season): Jasen Gorbin, 12 (1980)

Defensive INTs(Career): Philip Chase, 19
Defensive INTs(Game): Hollister Mills, 3 (1999)
Defensive INTs(Season): Hollister Mills, 8 (1998)

Tackles(Career): Trey Draco, 338
Tackles(Game): Trey Draco, 20 (2004)
Tackles(Season): Trey Draco, 122 (2005)

Ivory League Conference (ILC)
Passing Yards (Career): Terry Grayson, 11,250 (4 seasons)
Passing Touchdowns (Career): Terry Grayson, 102 (4 seasons)
Passing Yards (Game): Terry Grayson
Passing Touchdowns (Game): Terry Grayson
Passing Yards (Season): Terry Grayson
Passing Touchdowns (Season): Terry Grayson

Rushing Yards (Career): Julio Hecker, 3,401(3 seasons)
Rushing Touchdowns (Career): Julio Hecker, 35 (3 seasons)
Rushing Yards (Game): Daniel Tamara, 270 (2010)
Rushing Touchdowns (Game): Daniel Tamara, 4 (2010)
Rushing Yards (Season): Daniel Tamara, 2,044 (2010)
Rushing Touchdowns (Season): Daniel Tamara, 19 (2010)

Receiving Yards (Career): Ben Julius, 3,497 (4 seasons)
Receiving Touchdowns(Career): Ben Julius, 34 (4 seasons)
Receiving Yards(Game): Mark Nessler, 265 (2019)
Receiving Touchdowns(Game): Ben Julius, 4 (2000)
Receiving Yards(Season): Kolomon Peters, 1,604 (2020)
Receiving Touchdowns(Season): Kolomon Peters, 18 (2021)

Yards/Scrimmage (Career): Ben Julius, 4,322 (4 seasons)
Yards/Scrimmage(Game): Daniel Tamara, 304 (2010)
Yards/Scrimmage(Season): Daniel Tamara, 2,392 (2010)

Defensive Sacks(Career): Marian Kroll, 29 (3 seasons)
Defensive Sacks(Game): Paul Hertzfield, 4, 2017
Defensive Sacks(Season): Marian Kroll, 17, 2010

Defensive INTs(Career): Varnon Curtis, 19 (3 seasons)
Defensive INTs(Game): Thayne Reid, 3 (2021)
Defensive INTs(Season): Thayne Reid, 7 (2021)

Tackles(Career): Varrien Kelly, 322 (4 seasons)
Tackles(Game): Dyonte Adams, 30 (1980)
Tackles(Season): Dyonte Adams, 161 (1980)

NSCF: Team Records, Rivalry Records

Richardson

NSCF 16: 11-3
-Conference: 9-1
-Non Conference: 1-1
-Playoffs: 1-1

NSCF 17: 10-4
-Conference: 8-2
-Non Conference: 2-1
-Playoffs: 0-1

NSCF 18: 8-6
-Conference: 7-3
-Non Conference: 1-2
-Bowl: 0-1

NSCF 19: 12-4
-Conference: 8-2
-Non Conference: 2-1
-Playoffs: 2-1

NSCF 20: 9-5
-Conference: 6-4
-Non Conference: 2-1
-Bowl: 1-0

NSCF 21: 12-3
-Conference: 9-1
-Non Conference: 2-1
-Playoffs: 1-1

NSCF 22: 9-6
-Conference: 6-4
-Non Conference: 2-1
-Playoffs: 1-1

NSCF 23: 10-4
-Conference: 7-3
-Non Conference: 3-0
-Playoffs: 0-1

Overall NSCF Record: 79-29
-Conference: 60-20
-Non Conference: 15-8
-Playoffs: 5-6
-Bowls: 1-1
-Post Season, Total: 6-7

vs Cold Hill: 7-8 (0-1 playoffs, 52-43 NSCF XXI)
vs Raynor University: 8-2
vs Mar Sara Tech University: 6-4
vs University of Loyola-Istria: 3-3
vs Northern Moravica: 0-1 (NSCF 19 championship game)
vs Commonwealth of Baker Park: 4-2
vs Ramusok Capital: 5-2 (2-1 playoffs)
vs Sadeg State: 2-0
va Kohnhead City: 1-4

Cold Hill

NSCF 17: 8-6
-Conference: 6-4
-Non Conference: 1-2
-Bowl: 1-0

NSCF 18: 10-6
-Conference: 5-5
-Non Conference: 3-0
-Playoffs: 2-1

NSCF 19: 11-4
-Conference: 7-3
-Non Conference: 3-0
-Playoffs: 1-1

NSCF 20: 13-3
-Conference: 7-3
-Non Conference: 3-0
-Playoffs 3-0 (NSCF XX Champs over Northern Moravica)

NSCF 21: 14-2
-Conference: 9-1
-Non Conference: 3-0
-Playoffs: 2-1 (lost final to Loyola-Istria)

NSCF 22: 15-1
-Conference: 9-1
-Non Conference: 3-0
-Playoffs: 3-0 (20-13 over Felswyr State)

NSCF 23: 10-4
-Conference: 8-2
-Non Conference: 2-1
-Playoffs: 0-1

Overall NSCF Record: 81-26
-Conference: 51-19
-Non Conference: 18-3
-Bowls: 1-0
-Playoffs: 11-4
-Overall Postseason: 12-4

vs Richardson: 8-7 (1-0 playoffs)
-split in Richardson sweep in 17, Cold Hill sweep in 19, Cold Hill W 52-43 NSCF XX quarterfinal
vs Raynor University: 5-4
vs Mar Sara Tech University: 3-5
vs University of Loyola-Istria: 1-2 (1-2 playoffs)
vs Northern Moravica: 2-0
vs Salamantic Universities: 1-0
vs Commonwealth of Baker Park: 1-0 (playoffs)
vs Felswyr State: 2-0 (NSCF XXII final, 20-13 win)

[Ranoria]

Renown Combat International

RCI is the dominant combat league in Ranoria. While technically international, they are strongly based in Ranoria City, Ranoria and California City, St. John's, and Quebec City in Quebec. The fights are generally divided into two types.

First, there are pay per view events, which the organization charges per to view either per household or per business, in the case of bars or restaurants and the like. These typically feature at least one championship bout and several ranked fights with championship implications. An undercard, coming on before the main fights, will typically feature lesser fighters, with some being ranked and others younger trying to make their name. More yet, older fighters fighting for their jobs.

Second, there are free fight night events. These will feature many more television advertisements, and lesser fighters, but they do not require a cost on top of the viewer's television plan to watch. These typically feature a much lower draw.

Now, as for the rules.

Weight Classes
RCI Features 6 weight classes for men and 4 for women


Men's Divisions

Women's Divisions
Featherweight - 61.21 to 65.8 kg
Bantamweight - 56.71 to 61.2 kg
Flyweight - 52.21 to 56.7 kg
Strawweight - 48 to 52.2 kg

Heavyweight - 106.59 to 126.56 kg
Light Heavyweight - 92.98 to 106.5 kg
Middleweight - 79.38 to 92.97 kg
Welterweight - 72.57 to 79.37 kg
Lightweight - 68.04 to 72.56 kg
Flyweight - 63.50 to 68.03 kg

Note on weight classes: While the weight classes are followed for official championships and such, Renown occasionally schedules "exhibition" fights between fighters who just want to go toe-to-toe at their own weights, and even sometimes schedules these exhibitions between non-professional fighters if they're famous enough to bring in solid revenue.

Fights:

For most weight classes, three five minute rounds are employed for a regular bout. For main events and championship fights, the number of rounds is increased to five minutes.

For heavyweights, a regular bout consists of five three minute rounds. With larger fighters, performance is more exciting and excellent earlier in the round, and changes were enacted to reflect this. In a championship fight, 7 three minute rounds followed by a final four minute round are employed.

All fighters are required to have their hands wrapped in bandages and to wear organization-approved gloves prior to the contest. These gloves both lessen the amount of cuts caused by punches and allow for finger mobility for grappling.

Male fighters must wear a cup for protection, and all fighters must wear a mouth guard.

Victory can be obtained in a few ways. First, and most common, is by decision. Three neutral judges will score the fight based on control of the ring, strikes landed, aggression, takedowns and defense, et cetera.

Second is by submission. This is typically achieved in grappling. Submission can be achieved in a few ways itself. First, a fighter can tap the mat or the other fighter to submit, forfeiting the fight immedietely. Second would be causing the other fighter to lose consciousness via choke hold, and third, which is very much frowned upon, would be breaking, tearing, or dislocating the targeted limb or area of the body. However, if the losing fighter fails to tap, this can leave the winner with little other choice.

The final, and most exciting method, is knockout. This is the biggest draw of the heavier weight classes. Knockouts involve causing another fighter to lose consciousness via physical contact to the head. Punches, kicks, elbows, shoulder bashes, do your thing, if it works it works.

Fouls

As for penalties, there are a few. Strikes to the back of the head, kicks to an opponent whom is on the ground, groin strikes, eye pokes, spitting, and hair pulling are all considered fouls and will result in a warning, then docked points, and, finally, disqualification at the referee's discretion.

[Ranoria]

National Association of Hockey Clubs

With only 16 teams, Hockey is more of a niche sport in the country. That being said, its nature appeals to Ranorians. That being hard hits, generally barbaric plays, that sort of thing. Players are still provided a luxurious lifestyle in general though, and the top of the food chain rake it in with their sponsorship deals.

Teams in the National Association of Hockey Clubs:

National Division

Ranorian Division
Nashville Monsters
New Jersey Kings
New York Rooks
Pittsburgh Privateers
Ranoria City Devils
Vricksinburg Goats
Winnipeg Stallions
Yellowknife Klondikers

Baltimore Boxers
Boston Warriors
Calgary Mountaineers
Cold Hill Huntsmen
Cleveland Predators
Edmunton Zabronies
Halifax Snow Bears
Massachusetts Elephants

Playoffs System:
The Association applies an eight team tournament. Very simply, the #1 seed from each conference plays the #4 and the #2 seed plays the #3 in the quarterfinals. The winners advance to the semifinals, and then the finals. Each round is a maximum 3 game series, with two wins securing an advancement.

The finals work a bit differently. The finals feature a seven game series, with the higher seeded of the two finalists (determined by regular seeding procedures), getting to start at home, and thus getting four home games in the event of a 7 game series.

[Ranoria]

The Federation of Ranorian Baseball

Leonardo Harrison, the consensus best player in Ranorian baseball, after a home run in the World Baseball Classic

This is where the big drop off happens. Ranorian baseball is a niche sport at best, only recently breaking the 1 mil per year mark with its highest contract ever. However, now that they are funding a Ranorian National Team to compete in theWorld Baseball Classic, baseball is quickly gaining traction in the nation.

Original Teams in the Federation of Ranorian Baseball

Nashville Maestros
Ranoria City Sluggers
Vricksinburg Blaze
Edmunton Rebels
Raleigh Firstmates
Cleveland Thunder
Cincinnati Warbirds

Expansion Teams, as of 2025 Season
Richardson Rangers
Dietrich Diamondbacks
Matthensville Mavericks
Nancellorville Redbirds
Edmundton Snow Bears
Wentzville Capitals
Maelich Aeros

Playoff System

The Federation allows 8 of the 14 teams to compete in the playoff, up from 6 of the original 7. While originally the highest two seeded teams would earn a bye, the system now allows for a straight highest seed v lowest seed bracket with quarterfinals being the first round.

While the Federation's playoffs used to be single game knockout stages and a best-of-three series in the championship, the first two rounds are now best-of-three series while the championship is a best of five. As more teams are incorporated, with two more petitioning to start in the 2026 season, it's possible the playoffs system could expand even further.

World Baseball Classic
WBC 44: 12-18, team MVP: Leonardo Harrison
WBC 49 - 15-15, team MVP: Leonardo Harrison
WBC 50 - 19-11, team MVP: Leonardo Harrison
WBC 51 - 14-16, team MVP: Nicholas Lux
Overall: 60-60

[Ranoria]

RFL 2027 Season: Deondre Rhine's Breakout MVP Campaign

After two seasons of uneven but explosive play, Deondre "Diamond" Rhine finally put it all together in 2027, notching a career high 4,644 passing yards with 42 passing touchdowns. This is the ^2nd highest passing TD mark in a season ever, and makes him the 3^rd QB in RFL history to throw for 40+ touchdowns in a season. His top target of course was none other than star wideout Alessandra Mio, who reeled in 101 receptions for 1,543 yards and 12 touchdowns. Many though, will say the catalyst for his breakout was the acquisition of the best tight end in football, anywhere: Johnny Farmer. Farmer himself recorded 90 catches, 993 yards, and a league-leading 17 scores while providing Rhine with a safety net, helping drastically reduce his turnover numbers. Rhine threw just 13 interceptions, down from 20 and 15 in his first two seasons.

Other notable storylines:

Byron Joseph's OPOY campaign leads to conference championship berth for Highport Hawks: Despite being stopped by John Garrett's Indianapolis Hogs, Joseph proved that he's not going anywhere, and is only getting better as time goes on. Joseph cleared the 4,000 yard mark passing with over 800 rushing yards and recorded 39 total touchdowns. Many say the Kohnhead native is reminiscent of Derek McNair, but we'd argue his improvement in the passing game is coming far quicker.

Angelo Gordon's Run Stopped Cold: Angelo Gordon had held a league record streak of 7 seasons with 10 or more sacks. Hell, he was going on 6 years straight of 13+, and looked to be continuing that run in 2027 as the point man of the Pittsburgh Ironmen. Unfortunately, in week 3 he ran into Deondre Rhine, and on a nasty collision between the two, broke his neck, leaving Vontaze Ahn and Malik Sherman to run the show on their own in Pittsburgh. Perhaps predictably, the Ironmen - who had made 8 straight postseason appearances, 4 championship appearances with 3 victories - finally missed the playoffs.

Thorn Davis Slips Up: 2025's MVP had a disastrous season when he broke his thumb in week 4 and attempted to play through it for most of the campaign, severely hampering his performance. While the Silver still made the playoffs, Davis's hindered accuracy was an achilles heel for a normally dominant offense.

Is it time for Paul Verona to hang them up? A 5x all star and former champion, Paul Verona has been Sierraville's franchise quarterback since he was drafted back in 2012. Despite clearing the 4,000 yard mark in four of the past five seasons, his squad has missed the playoffs in each of the last two seasons, and he's thrown 77 interceptions in those five years to just 131 scores.

John Garrett Loses in OT, But Second Straight Championship Appearance Begins to Silence Doubters: While John Garrett has always been dominant (as one would expect from a 3x MVP and World Bowl Starter), a pair of first round playoff exits had many questioning his poise in big moments. However, taking a dominant Dynamos squad to overtime in the championship proved to everyone he's up to snuff, and he won't be surrendering his spot on the Krauts or the Hogs anytime soon.

National Conference

Ranorian Conference                                              Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 

1 Highport Hawks                                                16   13   0   3   515  328 +187    39
 2 Nashville Sabercats                                           16   12   0   4   535  381 +154    36
 3 Indianapolis Hogs                                             16   11   1   4   505  388 +117    34
 4 Madison Gladiators                                            16   11   0   5   387  260 +127    33
 5 Apollotown Sabers                                             16   10   1   5   345  294  +51    31
 6 Memphis Steamers                                              16    9   0   7   398  391   +7    27
 7 Fermete Marauders                                             16    8   0   8   387  320  +67    24
 8 Calgary Stampede                                              16    8   0   8   372  407  −35    24
 9 Mariana Tigers                                                16    7   2   7   408  382  +26    23
10 Hamilton Tigers                                               16    7   0   9   436  451  −15    21
11 Mississippi Bootleggers                                       16    7   0   9   376  395  −19    21
12 New York Lights                                               16    7   0   9   373  443  −70    21
13 Sierraville Famers                                            16    6   0  10   361  421  −60    18
14 Halifax Blizzard                                              16    6   0  10   355  448  −93    18
15 Georgia Thrashers                                             16    5   1  10   345  378  −33    16
16 Lavallette Crusaders                                          16    4   0  12   275  483 −208    12
17 Ranoria City Falcons                                          16    2   1  13   292  495 −203     7

National Conference                                          Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD   Pts 

 1 Dietrich Dynamos                                              16   15   0   1   592  304 +288    45
 2 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts                                  16   11   1   4   459  302 +157    34
 3 Yellowknife Wraiths                                           16   11   1   4   294  247  +47    34
 4 Herot Crusaders                                               16   10   0   6   376  267 +109    30
 5 Minnessota Redwolves                                          16   10   0   6   386  391   −5    30
 6 Port Kruger Phalanx                                           16    9   2   5   328  277  +51    29
 7 Detroit Paladins                                              16    9   0   7   271  296  −25    27
 8 Edmunton Eagles                                               16    8   0   8   345  346   −1    24
 9 Ranoria City Silver                                           16    7   1   8   430  398  +32    22
10 Royotte Colts                                                 16    7   0   9   291  334  −43    21
11 Richardson Fenrirs                                            16    7   0   9   262  310  −48    21
12 Vancouver Yeti                                                16    6   1   9   312  310   +2    19
13 Winnippegg Mountaineers                                       16    6   0  10   353  356   −3    18
14 Pittsburgh Ironmen                                            16    5   1  10   186  259  −73    16
15 Menagerie Pioneers                                            16    5   0  11   276  330  −54    15
16 New York Heights                                              16    4   1  11   320  418  −98    13
17 Lorcondan National Team                                       16    2   0  14   178  514 −336     6

First Round:

Gladiators v Sabers
Apollotown Sabers 6–23 Madison Gladiators

Hogs v Steamers
Indianapolis Hogs 44–34 Memphis Steamers

Wraiths v Phalanx
Yellowknife Wraiths 34–21 Port Kruger Phalanx

Crusaders v Redwolves
Minnesota Redwolves 27–3 Herot Crusaders

Second Round:

Highport v Madison
Highport Hawks 22–20 Madison Gladiators

Dietrich v Minnesota
Dietrich Dynamos 30–9 Minnesota Redwolves

Nashville v Indianapolis
Nashville Sabercats 10–20 Indianapolis Hogs

North Ashialand v Yellowknife
North Ashialand Dreadnaughts 30–41 Yellowknife Wraiths

Conference Championships:

Dietrich v Yellowknife
Dietrich Dynamos 45–16 Yellowknife Wraiths

Indianapolis v Highport
Indianapolis Hogs 29–23 Highport Hawks

Championship:

Dietrich Dynamos 19–19 Indianapolis Hogs (25–22 OT)

MVP: QB Deondre Rhine, Dietrich Dynamos
OPOY: QB Byron Joseph, Highport Hawks
DPOY: DE Douglas Starling, Richardson Fenrirs
OROY: HB Jojo Huber, Georgia Thrashers
DROY: DT Gudbrand Taurus, Richardson Fenrirs

[Ranoria]

RFL 2028 Season: Dawn of a Dynasty for Dietrich Dynamos

Rhine showed no signs of slowing down coming out of his first MVP and championship season. His Dynamos followed up a 15-1 regular season campaign by going 14-2 and scoring 588 regular season points. Rhine himself was lethal, throwing for 39 passing touchdowns and 4,781 yards, the latter number being the second highest in RFL history. And better yet? A career low in interceptions, with just ten. His two elite weapons? Alessandra Mio, widely regarded now as the best receiver in the RFL, racked up a third consecutive 90+ catch season with thirteen hundred yards to boot, and tight end Johnny Farmer proved he's nowhere close to slowing down, earning his 6th career 1,000+ yard season and again leading the league in touchdown catches with 18. With Rhine throwing the ball to such a productive red zone target, expect his career totals to continue climbing as long as they're both on the field.

They would win the championship 31-30 over the Highport Hawks, led by Byron Joseph out of Kohnhead. With a budding dynasty, hopes are high for a Dynamos franchise that has taken its fair share of grief over the decades. However, with Alessandra Mio's contract expiring and the star receiver not yet re-signed, their offense could be due to take a step back if she moves on. While Mio has never publicly aired her grievances, it seems clear she has been frustrated with Deondre Rhine's antics since they began playing together, and may be hoping for a breath of fresh air from a more healthy locker room environment. As a 2x champion with a ton of receiving production, expect her market to be competitive with lucrative contracts should she decide to move on.

Other notable storylines:

Byron Joseph is one of the best quarterbacks in the league: Byron Joseph, a year after having a breakout campaign and falling just short of a championship berth, brought his Hawks to the next step to play Deondre Rhine's Dynamos in the championship game, and came up just short due to an all-too-Ranorian missed PAT. Joseph passed for a second consecutive 4,000 yard season and established himself as the premier dual threat passer in the RFL en route to an 11-5 campaign.

First-Seeded Hogs Stopped in Semifinal, Keeps Garrett From Third Straight Championship Game: 3x MVP John Garrett was coming off back to back championship appearances in 2028, and looked to be on his way to a third before a rally by Byron Joseph in the conference championship, which ended 31-41 in the Hawks' favor. It was his second straight year seeing Byron Joseph in the conference championship, and many are now anticipating the next meeting of these two rivals.

Angelo Gordon misses 2 games, registers just 7.5 sacks as lingering injury limits star pass rusher: After breaking his neck in an impact with Deondre Rhine in 2027, many doubted Angelo Gordon would ever play football again. It was a miracle he did, but the now-hurting pass rusher played limited snaps and was clearly hampered throughout the season. Will he ever be able to regain his prime?

Bo Callahan leads North Ashialand to 14-2 Season, Runner Up for MVP: Bo Callahan, an aging veteran in search of one more title, is Ranoria's current all time leader in passing yards and touchdowns. His Dreadnaughts were loaded this season, but just didn't quite have the gas to bring down Diamond Rhine's Dynamos.

CB Darnell Sleight benched after week 3, cut after season: The longtime CB1 for the Ranorian Krauts missed the World Bowl 42 championship campaign due to a torn ACL, and just hasn't played to his standard since. Sleight was benched after week 3 and cut following the season's conclusion, with many pundits believing he may no longer be welcome on the national team.

Ranorian Conference

 1 Indianapolis Hogs                                             16   13   0   3   546  359 +187    39
 2 Mississippi Bootleggers                                       16   12   0   4   441  336 +105    36
 3 Highport Hawks                                                16   11   0   5   473  346 +127    33
 4 Nashville Sabercats                                           16   10   0   6   470  366 +104    30
 5 Madison Gladiators                                            16    9   0   7   362  255 +107    27
 6 Georgia Thrashers                                             16    9   0   7   356  278  +78    27
 7 Sierraville Famers                                            16    9   0   7   437  369  +68    27
 8 Hamilton Tigers                                               16    8   0   8   357  439  −82    24
 9 Lavallette Crusaders                                          16    8   0   8   340  489 −149    24
10 Calgary Stampede                                              16    7   0   9   461  445  +16    21
11 Mariana Tigers                                                16    7   0   9   271  324  −53    21
12 New York Lights                                               16    7   0   9   330  414  −84    21
13 Memphis Steamers                                              16    7   0   9   392  495 −103    21
14 Apollotown Sabers                                             16    6   1   9   349  369  −20    19
15 Halifax Blizzard                                              16    5   2   9   349  375  −26    17
16 Fermete Marauders                                             16    4   1  11   377  455  −78    13
17 Ranoria City Falcons                                          16    2   0  14   234  431 −197     6

National Conference Pld W D L PF PA PD Pts

1 Dietrich Dynamos                                              16   14   0   2   588  346 +242    42
 2 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts                                  16   14   0   2   543  333 +210    42
 3 Yellowknife Wraiths                                           16   13   0   3   365  267  +98    39
 4 Pittsburgh Ironmen                                            16   10   1   5   333  198 +135    31
 5 Minnessota Redwolves                                          16   10   0   6   343  297  +46    30
 6 Herot Crusaders                                               16    9   0   7   348  279  +69    27
 7 Richardson Fenrirs                                            16    8   1   7   271  227  +44    25
 8 Menagerie Pioneers                                            16    8   0   8   346  285  +61    24
 9 Edmunton Eagles                                               16    8   0   8   438  382  +56    24
10 Ranoria City Silver                                           16    8   0   8   372  370   +2    24
11 Vancouver Yeti                                                16    7   0   9   363  358   +5    21
12 New York Heights                                              16    6   1   9   227  353 −126    19
13 Detroit Paladins                                              16    6   0  10   313  332  −19    18
14 Winnippegg Mountaineers                                       16    5   0  11   291  398 −107    15
15 Royotte Colts                                                 16    3   1  12   245  446 −201    10
16 Port Kruger Phalanx                                           16    3   0  13   314  428 −114     9
17 Lorcondan National Team                                       16    2   0  14   160  561 −401     6

First Round:

Wraiths vs Crusaders
Yellowknife Wraiths 27–9 Herot Crusaders

Ironmen vs Redwolves
Pittsburgh Ironmen 10–7 Minnesota Redwolves

Hawks vs Thrashers
Highport Hawks 30–26 Georgia Thrashers

Sabercats vs Gladiators
Nashville Sabercats 16–37 Madison Gladiators

Second Round

Mississippi vs Highport
Mississippi Bootleggers 0–23 Highport Hawks

Dietrich v Pittsburgh
Dietrich Dynamos 31–20 Pittsburgh Ironmen

Indianapolis vs Madison
Indianapolis Hogs 24–19 Madison Gladiators

North Ashialand v Yellowknife
North Ashialand Dreadnaughts 27–10 Yellowknife Wraiths

Conference Championships:

Dietrich v North Ashialand
Dietrich Dynamos 27–20 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts

Indianapolis v Highport
Indianapolis Hogs 31–41 Highport Hawks

Championship:

Dietrich Dynamos 31–30 Highport Hawks

[Ranoria]

National Alliance of Association Football

A truly niche sport in the nation, despite small volume Ranoria's NAAF has produced respectable results on the international stage's most prestigious competition in the World Cup. The Alliance's 8 teams contend for a 4 team playoff, with the 4th and 5th seeds entering a play-in game to reach the semifinals before a champion is crowned. The bracket is simply 1v4 and 2v3.

The Alliance Started out recently, in 2019, with 4 teams, and a one game final between the top two squads, expanded to six teams for the following seasons. All of these seasons were played with a one-game playoff between the top two teams for the championship. The league later expanded to 8 teams, and now features the current playoff format.

Notably, the Cold Hill Couriers were a flash in the pan, appearing in just two seasons before going bankrupt as a franchise.


Teams:
"Key Players" Indicate players rostered by the national team or U21 starters. A "*" indicates a starter. Italics indicate a U21 starter.

Richardson Revolt

Striker: Annika Amann
Midfielder: Esther Simson*
Defenders: Organa Philly, Sabra Sapharina
Goalkeeper: Vincent Emilia*

Ashialand Blizzard

Striker: Julian Morris
Midfielders: Rayko Grossman, Janina Louise
Defenders: Sam Murphy, David Yarbrough
Goalkeeper: Tony Berg

Highport Heroes

Midfielder: Marian Korngold

Dietrich Dirks

Midfielder: Gregor Berger*
Defenders: Eugene Rimold*, Chris Jenkins*, Andrew Parrish

Vricksinburg Thunder

Striker: Glenn Helmine
Midfielder: Horace Forbes, Dirk Wetter
Defenders: Lioni Grendel, Michael Bier

Memphis Delta Blues

Striker: Tony Hamilton*
Midfielder: August Mueller*

Ranoria City Privateers

Strikers: Felix Graf*, Dresden Crux
Midfielder: Gwen Helmine

Port Kruger Cougars

Defenders: Kris Reinhardt*, Jules Annina*

Championships Rankings:
Dietrich: 6
Vricksinburg: 2
Port Kruger: 2
Ashialand: 2
Cold Hill: 1

Championship Appearances (total):
Dietrich: 7
Richardson: 5
Vricksinburg: 3
Ashialand: 3
Port Kruger: 2
Cold Hill: 1

Runner Ups:
Richardson: 5
Ashialand, Port Kruger: 2
Dietrich, Vricksinburg, Cold Hill: 1

Regular Season Standings
                            Pld   W  D  L   GF  GA  GD  Pts 
1 Richardson                  6   3  1  2   13   9  +4   10
2 Dietrich                    6   2  2  2    6   6   0    8
3 Vricksinburg                6   2  2  2    4   8  −4    8
4 Ranoria City                6   2  1  3   10  10   0    7

Championship

Dietrich (Dirks) 4–2 Richardson (Revolt)

Regular Season Standings
                             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Dietrich                    10    6   2   2    13    6   +7    20
2 Cold Hill                   10    4   4   2     6    3   +3    16
3 Richardson                  10    5   1   4     7    7    0    16
4 Ranoria City                10    3   4   3     8    8    0    13
5 Memphis                     10    3   2   5    13   14   −1    11
6 Vricksinburg                10    2   1   7     5   14   −9     7

Championship
Dietrich (Dirks) 1–0 Cold Hill (Couriers)

Regular Season Standings
                             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Vricksinburg                10    5   2   3    14   10   +4    17
2 Cold Hill                   10    4   3   3     9    7   +2    15
3 Dietrich                    10    5   0   5    10   10    0    15
4 Richardson                  10    3   5   2    12   12    0    14
5 Ranoria City                10    2   6   2    16   20   −4    12
6 Memphis                     10    2   2   6     8   10   −2     8

Championship
Vricksinburg (Thunder) 3–3 Cold Hill (Couriers) (4–5 AET)

Regular Season Standings
                             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Richardson                  10    5   3   2    12    6   +6    18
2 Vricksinburg                10    5   2   3    12    9   +3    17
3 Dietrich                    10    4   4   2    12   12    0    16
4 Ranoria City                10    4   0   6    12   16   −4    12
5 Memphis                     10    3   2   5    10   13   −3    11
6 Cold Hill                   10    3   1   6     5    7   −2    10

Championship
Vricksinburg (Thunder) 0–0 Richardson (Revolt) (1–0 AET)

Regular Season Standings
                             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Dietrich                    10    9   0   1    12    1  +11    27
2 Richardson                  10    5   1   4     9    9    0    16
3 Cold Hill                   10    4   2   4     8    7   +1    14
4 Memphis                     10    4   1   5     8    6   +2    13
5 Vricksinburg                10    3   2   5     6    9   −3    11
6 Ranoria City                10    2   0   8     7   18  −11     6

Championship
Dietrich (Dirks) 0–0 Richardson (Revolt) (0–0 AET) (3–0 pen.)

Regular Season Standings
                             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Dietrich                    10    5   3   2     8    5   +3    18
2 Vricksinburg                10    4   4   2    12    8   +4    16
3 Richardson                  10    4   4   2     9    7   +2    16
4 Port Kruger                 10    2   5   3     8    8    0    11
5 Memphis                     10    3   2   5     9   12   −3    11
6 Ranoria City                10    1   4   5     9   15   −6     7

Championship
Dietrich (Dirks) 1–2 Vricksinburg (Thunder)

Regular Season Standings
                             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Dietrich                    14   11   2   1    20    8  +12    35
2 Port Kruger                 14    7   5   2    21   11  +10    26
3 Vricksinburg                14    7   3   4    17   10   +7    24
4 Memphis                     14    5   5   4    18   15   +3    20
5 Richardson                  14    5   3   6    19   19    0    18
6 Ashialand                   14    3   5   6     6   12   −6    14
7 Ranoria City                14    2   3   9    13   27  −14     9
8 Highport                    14    1   4   9     7   19  −12     7

Play-In
Memphis (Delta Blues) 1–2 Richardson (Revolt)

[pre]Semifinals
Dietrich vs Richardson
Dietrich (Dirks) 1–1 Richardson (Revolt) (1–1 AET) (0–3 pen.)

Port Kruger vs Vricksinburg
Port Kruger (Cougars) 1–0 Vricksinburg (Thunder)

Championship
Port Kruger (Cougars) 1–0 Richardson (Revolt)

Regular Season Standings
                             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Ashialand                   14    9   0   5    23   18   +5    27
2 Dietrich                    14    7   5   2    16    8   +8    26
3 Memphis                     14    7   4   3    16   11   +5    25
4 Richardson                  14    6   3   5    13   12   +1    21
5 Vricksinburg                14    4   5   5    12   14   −2    17
6 Ranoria City                14    3   6   5    22   21   +1    15
7 Port Kruger                 14    4   3   7    11   14   −3    15
8 Highport                    14    0   6   8     4   19  −15     6

Play-In
Vricksinburg (Thunder) 0–1 Richardson (Revolt)

Semifinals
Dietrich vs Memphis
Dietrich (Dirks) 2–0 Memphis (Delta Blues)

Ashialand vs Richardson
Ashialand (Blizzard) 1–0 Richardson (Revolt)

Championship
Dietrich (Dirks) 1–0 Ashialand (Blizzard)

Regular Season Standings
                             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Dietrich                    14    9   2   3    16    8   +8    29
2 Richardson                  14    8   4   2    15    5  +10    28
3 Vricksinburg                14    8   3   3    19   12   +7    27
4 Port Kruger                 14    7   3   4    13   11   +2    24
5 Memphis                     14    5   4   5    14   14    0    19
6 Ashialand                   14    3   4   7    12   14   −2    13
7 Ranoria City                14    2   7   5    14   18   −4    13
8 Highport                    14    0   1  13     4   25  −21     1

Play-In
Memphis (Delta Blues) 0–1 Port Kruger (Cougars)

Semifinals
Richardson vs Vricksinburg
Richardson (Revolt) 0–2 Vricksinburg (Thunder)

Dietrich vs Port Kruger
Dietrich (Dirks) 1–0 Port Kruger (Cougars)

Championship
Dietrich (Dirks) 0–3 Vricksinburg (Thunder)

Regular Season
                             Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Dietrich                    14    8   4   2    20    9  +11    28
2 Ashialand                   14    7   4   3    22   13   +9    25
3 Vricksinburg                14    7   3   4    13   11   +2    24
4 Memphis                     14    5   5   4    21   18   +3    20
5 Richardson                  14    5   3   6    11   10   +1    18
6 Port Kruger                 14    6   0   8    12   16   −4    18
7 Ranoria City                14    4   3   7    15   24   −9    15
8 Highport                    14    1   4   9     8   21  −13     7

Play-In

Memphis (Delta Blues) 0–1 Richardson (Revolt)

Semifinals

Dietrich vs Richardson
Dietrich 2–1 Richardson (Revolt)

Ashialand vs Vricksinburg
Ashialand (Blizzard) 1–0 Vricksinburg (Thunder)

Championship
Ashialand (Blizzard) 0–1 Dietrich (Dirks)

[Ranoria]

RFL 2029 Season: Joseph Guides Hawks to First Ever Championship As His Career Trajectory Continues To Skyrocket

If anyone thought the Dynamos would go for the threepeat after losing just three games in the last two seasons, they were stunned by the results of this season. After star wideout Alessandra Mio showed no willingness to negotiate with the Dietrich, the team's offense looked to be in shambles, especially early. Rumors ran wild, from Rhine being unable to handle his top target leaving to accusations that she'd been telling him the plays due to his lack of knowledge on the playbook.

Regardless of the root cause, Rhine tossed 13 interceptions in the first five games and tied for the league lead overall with 26 on the year as the Dynamos stumbled to an 8-8 record. With John Garrett going down with an Achilles tear six games into the season, two major contenders were eliminated, and Byron Joseph's Hawks took advantage. Their quarterback had one of his best seasons yet, with a career best 25:6 TD:INT ratio. Of course the team's drafting of KCU running back Herman Whitworth didn't hurt. It took an aggressive trade to move up in the first round for him, but it paid off - Whitworth carried the load with 344 carries and 1,644 yards as a rookie, good for third in the league in rushing. On the back of the two stars for the Kohnhead national team, the Hawks secured their first ever championship as Byron Joseph continues to prove he's one of the best quarterbacks in the league. The team they had to beat out for that title? The best defense in Ranoria in the Pittsburgh Ironmen, led by DPOY Vontaze Ahn, and it didn't matter as Joseph hung 44 on that vaunted unit.

Other notable storylines:

It took one hell of an offseason but the Ranoria City Falcons Are Finally Relevant Again: Between hiring Banijan Dennis Zervos at HC, signing WR Alessandra Mio, and drafting WR William Carey, this team would have been better, but the first overall pick was the real prize. Sarai Gwenderyn, one of the best quarterbacks in NSCF - and therefore college - history. Gwenderyn came in and won rookie of the year by some margin, with only Herman Whitworth challenging her for that title. She finished the season with 3,652 passing yards, 26 scores, and 11 turnovers and guided her squad to their first playoff victory in eight years. With old teammate Alessandra Mio and Kohnhead NT wideout William Carey at the receiving positions, don't expect this offense to slow down their scoring any time soon - they're only getting better.

Is It Time For The Hogs To Move On From John Garrett: 3x MVP John Garrett had been to three straight semifinal games, with a title thrown in that mix, and he's won two straight World Bowls - but once again his injury tendencies ended the Hogs' season. While Farmboy is already making a case for himself as the best quarterback to ever play in the RFL and perhaps the best current passer in the world, his shoulder tear in 2024 turned a potential back-to-back championship team into a 10-6 first round exit, and he threw 40 of his 81 career interceptions between 2024 and 2026 due to that lingering damage. This latest setback just proves more and more that the all-world passer cannot stay healthy.

Vontaze Ahn may be old as dirt, but he's still got it:The all time Quebecois sack leader came over to Ranoria to play with the Pittsburgh Ironmen, and in five seasons he's racked up 50.5 sacks alongside Angelo Gordon. Gordon, however, hasn't been the same since a 2027 neck injury, leaving Ahn to step up. The old man won defensive player of the year on the back of a 14.5 sack, 20 TFL, 9 forced fumble season that helped his squad get to the championship game.

Bo Callahan Secures 4th MVP: Bo Callahan, an aging veteran in search of one more title, is Ranoria's current all time leader in passing yards and touchdowns. He guided them to an RFL-best 550 points and led the league in passing with 4,443 yards and 34 touchdowns - making him the only passer with 4,000+ yards and the only one with over 30 passing touchdowns this season. Unfortunately, his Dreadnaughts still fell in the second round to Thorn Davis's Ranoria City Silver.

The Silver Come Roaring Back: Star quarterback Thorn Davis has missed 8 games over the last two seasons, but he stayed upright this go round, tossing 30 touchdowns and 3,748 yards - good for 2nd and 4th best in the league. Wideout Kieran Kweo-Atkison was his engine, reeling in over 100 receptions, more than 1,600 yards and 16 scores as he made sure to remind everyone that Alessandra Mio at the very least has some competition for the title of best receiver in the league.

The Port Kruger Phalanx Went All-In On Strathos...For Nothing: Aurel Strathos was picked #2 overall, and prior to his playoff loss to Northern Moravica was viewed as the potential top pick in the draft. The Phalanx cut back heavily on their run game, with NT second stringer Emilio Annaise taking a career-low 255 carries as Strathos was given the reigns regardless of the consequences...which were dire. Strathos finished with 3,105 yards and 11 touchdowns while going 298/601 on the season - leading the RFL in pass attempts. He averaged just over 5 yards per attempt and was under the 50% completion mark and worse yet, turned the ball over 33 times between 26 interceptions and 7 fumbles lost. Teams completely keyed on Emilio Annaise despite the reduced workload, limiting the star runner to 1001 rushing yars 3.93 yards per carry after his prior career lows had been 4.29 and 1,229.

If Golden Boy Strathos can't turn things around next season, he'll likely go the way of 2025 1st overall pick Ricky Cappa, who's currently warming the bench for a veteran minimum deal.


Playoffs Results:

Ranoria City Falcons 41–28 Munich Thrashers
Madison Gladiators 27-7 Sierraville Farmers

Pittsburgh Ironmen 28-3 Rouyoutte Colts
Ranoria City Silver 45–7 Eglise Mountaineers

Nashville Sabercats 38–34 Ranoria City Falcons
Highport Hawks 28-14 Madison Gladiators

Ranoria City Silver 44-35 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts
Pittsburgh Ironnmen 20-3 Fiston Redwolves

Sabercats vs Highport
Nashville Sabercats 23–27 Highport Hawks

Ironmen vs Silver
Pittsburgh Ironmen 27–14 Ranoria City Silver

Highport Hawks 44–30 Pittsburgh Ironmen

Awards:
MVP: QB Bo Callahan, North Ashialand Dreadnaughts
OPOY: RB Vice Jackson III, Madison Gladiators
DPOY: DE Vontaze Ahn, Pittsburgh Ironmen
OROY: QB Sarai Gwenderyn, Ranoria City Falcons
DROY: ILB Mi-Hyeon Park, Fermete Marauders
COY: HC Dennis Zervos, Ranoria City Falcons

[Ranoria]

NAAF 2029 Season

Standings                    Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Dietrich                    14   11   2   1    19    5  +14    35
2 Port Kruger                 14    6   5   3    10    6   +4    23
3 Ashialand                   14    6   4   4    18   16   +2    22
4 Richardson                  14    6   3   5    15   14   +1    21
5 Vricksinburg                14    6   3   5    13   13    0    21
6 Ranoria City                14    6   2   6    28   26   +2    20
7 Memphis                     14    3   5   6    21   21    0    14
8 Highport                    14    0   0  14     2   25  −23     0

Notes: In weeks 3 and 4, Richardson held the top seed and looked the part. They hadn't allowed a single goal to that point at 3-1-0 record. Rookie defender Sabra Sapharina played a huge part in that defense. However, they went 3-2-5 after week 4 and landed in the fourth seed, where they'd have to play Vricksinburg in a play-in game to make the playoffs.

The Highport Heroes, in the same season that the team's gridiron team won it all, completed the first winless and tieless season in NAAF history as they continue to be an absolute bottom feeder.

After an 0-4-2 start, the Port Kruger Cougars came roaring back to take the second seed. They finished the season on a 6-1-1 run and ultimately ended the campaign as one of two teams to allow 10 or fewer goals with 6 on the back of NT star Kris Reinhardt.

Dietrich, meanwhile, continues to dominate. Their 11-2-1 record meant they had clinched the first seed by week 11.

Play in
Richardson Revolt 5–1 Vricksinburg Thunder

An absolutely dominant showing by the Revolt at home to propel them into the playoffs - where they hope to exorcise their demons as a 4 time runner up. Tied for most goals scored in a game this season as Annika Amman, a 2nd year pro and U21 team starter, hammered in four goals in a career best type day.

Dietrich vs Richardson
Dietrich Dirks 1–0 Richardson Revolt

Port Kruger vs Ashialand
Port Kruger Cougars 1–0 Ashialand Blizzard

More pain for the Revolt as they fail to reach the championship again, and tragedy for the Blizzard, who had in their first four seasons been in a cycle - 3 wins, runner up campaign. Not this time.

Championship

Dietrich Dirks 1–0 Port Kruger Cougars

To no one's surprise, the Dirks win yet another title as they continue to add to their lofty trophy case as easily the best team in Ranoria.

MVP: Striker Julian Morris, Ashialand Blizzard
OPOY: Striker Felix Graf, Ranoria City Privateers
DPOY: Defender Kris Reinhardt, Port Kruger Cougars
ROY: Defender Sabra Sapharina, Richardson Revolt

[Ranoria]

RFL 2030 Season: The Legend Only Grows: Sarai Gwenderyn Continues to Rack Up Accolades, Ends 20 Year Championship Drought for Falcons


Ranoria City Falcons running out of the tunnel before the championship game

In the other conference, the Pittsburgh Ironmen were back in full force, allowing just 13.5 points per game and securing the first seed...but their success made other teams, like the Ranoria City Falcons, overlooked.

At 11-1-4, the Ranoria City Falcons secured a first round bye and the second seed in their conference. After their top two running backs suffered injuries too severe to return by the end of the season, second year head coach Dennis Zervos quickly redesigned the offense.

The Falcons had already been running a good deal of 5-wide looks to take advantage of their second year passer's mobility, but it became an offense reminiscent of the one she ran at Felswyr State in the postseason. In the divisional round, her Ranoria City Falcons hosted the defending champions in Byron Joseph's Highport Hawks, and it was a bloodbath. The Falcons triumphed 50-20 as Joseph's team turned the ball over twice and Gwenderyn's crew moved the ball in the air controlled the clock with her running when necessary. That was a stunner - Joseph has been to three straight semifinal or better finishes and two straight title game appearances. For a passer of his talent, who led the number three offense in the RFL this season, it was a result that no one expected.

In the semifinal? The man who'd just redefined what's possible as a passer in the Ranorian Football League. No matter, the Hawks downed them 30-15 in a dominant showing that shattered the hearts of a fanbase that had gone to four semifinals in the past five seasons. Two games that, despite their seeding, they'd come in as underdogs in. Of the three superstars on the team in Sarai Gwenderyn, Alessandra Mio, and William Carey, the former two largely kept their heads down, thanked the fans, and moved on in their postgame interviews. With a berth in the championship, the superstar was not able to attend the awards ceremony, where she was awarded the Footballer of the Year award for her charitable works in Chromatika.

The title game? It was over by halftime. The Falcons hung 52 points on a team that prided itself on a defense spearheaded by Krauts star pass rusher Zach Skinner, and their offense could only whimper out 20 points in retaliation. Gwenderyn was absolutely dominant, tossing three touchdowns and running for another three in one of the most incredible championship performances in RFL history. Our guess? This legend of hers is only going to grow. So don't turn away any time soon. But she has her eyes set on bigger prizes if her postgame interview had anything to say about it.

When Vick Hamilton asked her about her future goals, Gwenderyn was clear. "To be one of the best in the game, to face Ranoria in the World Bowl, and..." With a glint in her eye came her final words, with perhaps just a hint of malice.

"To beat Drawkland."

Other notable storylines:

It looked like it was finally John Garrett's year. The Hogs' by now legendary quarterback managed to stay upright throughout the season and shattered all kinds of records. In the RFL, only 5 times have passers thrown 40 or more touchdowns. Garrett hit 40 twice in 2020 and 2026, and Bo Callahan in 2021. Garrett set the record at 47 in 2023, and Rhine managed 42 in 2027.

The passing yards record was held by Bo Callahan at 5,050 in 2021, the only time a quarterback has ever surpassed 4,800 yards, much less 5,000. Rhine, Callahan, and Garrett each have another individual season over 4,700...but Farmboy rewrote the books. Garrett let it rip for 5,227 yards passing and 51 touchdowns, shattering each mark and absolutely shredding any defense that had the audacity to stand in before a man who had won two straight World Bowl championships. He tied Bo Callahan for the most career MVP awards at 4, and looked like a juggernaut until they fell in the conference championship. The best passing season in Ranorian history was nothing but a footnote in the warpath of Sarai Gwenderyn's sophomore campaign.

Byron Joseph, despite an early playoff exit, continues to shine: Joseph himself was no slouch this season, winning a playoff game and 11 games in a season where he was getting MVP consideration until it became clear that Garrett would pull away with it. The Hawks do not appear to be going anywhere anytime soon despite what many fans will consider a disappointing season. That said, they should remember life before their star passer, in which they were a titleless and frankly consistently losing franchise. While Herman Whitworth fought through a hamstring injury in that playoff loss, he was far from 100% - he'll be back in full strength next season.

Angelo Gordon had one more year in him, and it wasn't enough: Gordon, in a rare show of vulnerability, openly admitted that seeing mid-40s teammate Vontaze Ahn win the defensive player of the year award in 2029 proved to him that he could fight through a brutal 2027 neck injury that was a large part in his drop off in production, registering just 17.5 sacks from 2027 to 2029. Unfortunately, despite a strong showing from him, his team still lost in the semifinals. Gordon is, however, just 8.5 sacks shy of the RFL career record.

Albatross Vergol Explodes in Second Season: The former #3 overall pick in the RFL draft proved that he can be the key to he Colts' future ascension, racking up 17.5 sacks and 19 TFL in his second season en route to a defensive player of the year award, helping to lead Rouyoutte's Colts to a second straight playoff berth. Vergol is slated to start for the Krauts in World Bowl 44 - the question is whether he'll slot in opposite Angelo Gordon or Zack Skinner, who both had bounceback seasons in 2030.

Bo Callahan hangs them up: Ranoria's all-time passing yards and touchdowns leader finally faltered. After a 14-2 MVP campaign in 2029, his Dreadnaughts went from a 4-1 start to finishing with a whimper at 6-10: losing 9 of their last 11 contests. Callahan played in all 16 games, but his record streak of six straight seasons of 4,000+ passing yards was broken as he finished with a meager 2,907 yards with 14 touchdowns against 19 interceptions. Many believe the loss of star linebacker Ross Monarch in week 8 contributed to the team's collapse, but after the 6-10 finish Bo Callahan has decided to call it a career. After 18 seasons, Callahan retires as the RFL career leader in pass attempts, completions, yards, and touchdowns. 64,539, 458 touchdown passes to just 243 interceptions, and 5,641/8700 on his career. Callahan also held the RFL passing record in a season with 5,050 until John Garrett broke it this year, and is a 4x MVP, winning the honors in 2015, 2017, 2021, and 2029, and a 3x RFL champion, winning it all in 2015, 2016, and 2021. 2016 in particular was impressive, as Callahan's team finished with the 6th seed at 7-8-1 after he was injured two weeks into the season, but he came back for the playoffs to lead them to eternal glory.

Thank you, Callahan, for everything you brought to the league. You've retired, and the RFL will never be the same.

Ranorian Conference                                             Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Indianapolis Hogs                                             16   12   0   4   593  386 +207    0.750
 2 Ranoria City Falcons                                          16   11   1   4   523  335 +188    0.719
 3 Highport Hawks                                                16   11   0   5   519  346 +173    0.688
 4 Nashville Sabercats                                           16   11   0   5   473  333 +140    0.688
 5 Munich  Thrashers                                             16   11   0   5   392  305  +87    0.688 
 6 Balafre Bootleggers                                           16   10   1   5   422  297 +125    0.656
 7 Madison Gladiators                                            16   10   0   6   293  246  +47    0.625
 8 Victorsville Hurricane                                        16    9   0   7   270  305  −35    0.562
 9 Calgary Stampede                                              16    8   0   8   367  301  +66    0.500
10 Lafayette Crusaders                                           16    7   0   9   336  401  −65    0.438
11 Sierraville Famers                                            16    7   0   9   266  333  −67    0.438
12 Memphis Steamers                                              16    6   0  10   334  398  −64    0.375
13 Fermete Marauders                                             16    6   0  10   310  379  −69    0.375
14 Mariana Tigers                                                16    6   0  10   306  421 −115    0.375
15 Berlin Snow Bears                                             16    5   0  11   271  471 −200    0.312
16 Halifax Blizzard                                              16    3   0  13   282  541 −259    0.188
17 Apollotown Sabers                                             16    2   0  14   208  367 −159    0.125

National Conference                                             Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Pittsburgh Ironmen                                            16   15   0   1   428  212 +216    0.938
 2 Yellowknife Wraiths                                           16   12   0   4   379  259 +120    0.750
 3 Ranoria City Silver                                           16   10   1   5   446  343 +103    0.656
 4 Rouyotte Colts                                                16    9   2   5   389  276 +113    0.625
 5 Edmunton Eagles                                               16   10   1   5   458  386  +72    0.656
 6 Dietrich Dynamos                                              16    9   1   6   517  479  +38    0.594
 7 Menagerie Pioneers                                            16    9   0   7   270  263   +7    0.562
 8 Eglise Mountaineers                                           16    7   0   9   329  331   −2    0.438
 9 Herot Paladins                                                16    8   1   7   328  251  +77    0.531
10 Vancouver Yeti                                                16    8   1   7   324  359  −35    0.531
11 Fiston  Redwolves                                             16    7   0   9   300  315  −15    0.438
12 Richardson Fenrirs                                            16    7   1   8   274  302  −28    0.469
13 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts                                  16    6   0  10   426  440  −14    0.375
14 New Quebec Quebecois                                          16    6   0  10   331  377  −46    0.375
15 Brittanny Paladins                                            16    5   0  11   275  352  −77    0.312
16 Port Kruger Phalanx                                           16    4   0  12   251  458 −207    0.250
17 Lorcondan National Team                                       16    0   0  16   210  532 −322    0.000

First Round

Highport vs Balafre
Highport Hawks 24–21 Balafre Bootleggers

Nashville vs Munich
Nashville Sabercats 50–13 Munich Thrashers

Silver vs Dynamos
Ranoria City Silver 20–38 Dietrich Dynamos

Edmunton vs Rouyoutte
Edmunton Eagles 37–37 Rouyoutte Colts (37–44 OT)

Second Round

Indianapolis vs Nashville
Indianapolis Hogs 55–25 Nashville Sabercats

Ranoria City vs Highport
Ranoria City Falcons 50–20 Highport Hawks

Pittsburgh vs Dietrich
Pittsburgh Ironmen 37–13 Dietrich Dynamos

Yellowknife vs Rouyoutte
Yellowknife Wraiths 26–12 Rouyoutte Colts

Semifinals

Pittsburgh vs Yellowknife
Pittsburgh Ironmen 13–31 Yellowknife Wraiths

Indianapolis vs Ranoria City
Indianapolis Hogs 15–30 Ranoria City Falcons

Championship

Championship
Yellowknife Wraiths 20–51 Ranoria City Falcons

MVP: QB John Garrett, Indianapolis Hogs
OPOY: WR Alessandra Mio, Ranoria City Falcons
DPOY: DE Albatross Vergol, Rouyoutte Colts
OROY: Terry Wade, WR, Ranoria City Silver
DROY: Ryan Wilson, CB, Pittsburgh Ironmen
Footballer of the Year: QB Sarai Gwenderyn, Ranoria City Falcons

[Ranoria]

NAAF 2030 Season

Standings                    Pld    W   D   L    GF   GA   GD   Pts 
1 Richardson                  14   12   2   0    27   10  +17    38
2 Dietrich                    14    6   5   3    16    6  +10    23
3 Vricksinburg                14    6   5   3    16   12   +4    23
4 Ashialand                   14    5   5   4    19   15   +4    20
5 Port Kruger                 14    4   4   6    13   11   +2    16
6 Ranoria City                14    3   4   7    18   25   −7    13
7 Memphis                     14    3   2   9    17   26   −9    11
8 Highport                    14    2   3   9     4   25  −21     9

Notes: Likely the worst regular season from Dietrich in team history, while the Richardson Revolt had the best of theirs, winning twice as many games as the next best squad.

Play in
Ashialand (Blizzard) 1–0 Port Kruger (Phalanx)

Richardson vs Ashialand
Richardson Revolt 1–0 Ashialand Blizzard

Dietrich vs Vricksinburg
Dietrich Dirks 2–0 Vricksinburg Thunder

Dietrich's stranglehold on he laegue wasn't going to see them sputter in the semifinal, while the Revolt looked to be on a warpath, finally capable of closing the deal and winning it all after so many disastrous championship losses.

Championship

Championship
Richardson Revolt 0–0 Dietrich Dirks (0–1 AET)

Pain. One of the most dominant seasons in history...and still it wasn't enough for the Revolt to overcome the Dirks.

MVP: Midfielder Esther Simson, Richardson Revolt
OPOY: Striker Annika Amann, Richardson Revolt
DPOY: Defender Eugene Rimold, Dietrich Dirks
ROY: Bobby Borat, Memphis Delta Blues

[Ranoria]

Renown Combat International - 233rd Edition

Renown Combat International is an international combat sport organization centered in Quebec City and Ranoria City. For more information, see this post.

Main Card:
Amos Mumbo⁷ vs Corrin Parrish⁹
Lightweight Bout

Amos Mumbo:
Nationality: Banija
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 152 lb
Record: 11-2

Corrin Parrish:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 154 lb
Record: 10-1

Result: Amos Mumbo by Split Decision
A fight between two lightweight contenders to kick things off! This was the opener of the pay per view fights, and it earned fight of the night honors as these two studs went at it from the opening bell. Most agree Mumbo won the fight - though only just - as both fighters recorded knockdowns and takedowns throughout while showcasing their cardio in a strong finish.

Parrish won't fall far in the rankings for this, but Mumbo will earn respect from the ranking committee for persevering in a war of a fight.

Main Card:
Victor Brenner⁵ vs. Kosan Chweba⁷
Heavyweight Bout

Victor Brenner:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 251 lb
Record: 16-6

Kosan Chweba:
Nationality: Banija
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 245 lb
Record: 7-1

Result: Kosan Chweba by TKO, 1st Round, 4:12

Everyone knew the day would come when Victor Brenner, a former RCI heavyweight champion, would get well and truly outclasses, and it came at the hands of none other than Kosan Chweba. Chweba had Brenner on his heels throughout the whole fight, and finally caught him with a beautiful feint to the head that led to a nasty, boxing-esque kidney punch. When Brenner instinctively doubled over, Chweba caught him with the left and put him out.

Chweba moves to 8-1 and with some maneuvering, could be in for a heavyweight title shot in his next fight.

Main Card:
Tabisha Anyango³ vs. Clara Miller⁶
Bantamweight Bout

Tabisha Anyango:
Nationality: Banija
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 138 lb
Record: 9-2

Clara Miller:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 135 lb
Record: 12-5

Result: Tabisha Anyango by Unanimous Decision

One of the fights here with the heaviest immediate championship implications, both of these women looked to take their shot at a title with a victory. Miller is a bit older and likely could only afford another loss or two before regression hit and her championship window began to shrink while Anyango of Banija is in her prime and one of the most lethal knockout artists in the division. She put it on display in a brutal showing where she failed to finish her opponent but recorded a whopping 4 knockdowns.

With the win, she certainly will become the #1 contender in her division made it clear she has her eyes on a championship fight next time she steps into the ring.

Main Card:
Kaiser Belfort vs. David Unega-Mimiteh¹⁰
Light Heavyweight Bout

Kaiser Belfort:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 230 lb
Record: 6-0

David Unega-Mimiteh:
Nationality: Quebec and Shingoryeo
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 241 lb
Record: 15-5

Result: David Unega-Mimiteh by TKO, round 1, 3:44

For an up-and-comer like Kaiser Belfort, this was a true test. Against a boxing genius like Unega-Mimiteh, he would be pitted against an opponent who's strengths would magnify his weaknesses. Mimiteh was an olympic bronze medalist boxer just three years ago and has made a living in Renown Combat knocking out anyone who stands in his path. He only recently lost his Renown championship title, and a second straight loss (later discovered to largely be due to a broken wrist) sent him careening down the rankings to 10th.

Belfort, meanwhile, is a wrestler. He's a capable striker and has two knockout wins (only one if we exclude his amateur career), but nowhere near the level of Unega-Mimiteh. And unfortunately for Belfort, who was considered a super prospect and delivered with a submission victory in his Renown debut, he bit off more than he could chew going straight for the king. He'll be forced to take a step back - especially with football season coming up - while Unega-Mimiteh looks to reclaim his lost title.

Co-Main Event:
Marion Jackson, Karditan vs Luke Collins⁸, Ranoria
Light Heavyweight Bout

Jackson:
Nationality: Karditan
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 230 lb
Record: 0-0

Collins:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 6'3"
Weight: 224 lb
Record: 9-1

Result: Marion Jackson by TKO, Round 1, 2:39

Many were surprised Collins took this fight. Marion Jackson is a successful boxer out of Karditan who decided to try his hand in the octagon and was a big money draw for the RCI 233 pay per view. As such, up-and-comer Raul Collins, who'd come in an impressive 9-1 and likely one victory away from a title berth, took the fight expecting an easy win. Unfortunately for him, Jackson's takedown defense surprised him and was enough to keep him off the ground long enough to pick Collins apart.

Notably, this was absolutely the most highly anticipated bout among professional MMA fighters on this card, which featured two exhibition matches.

Main Event:
1. Vontaze Ahn vs. Deondre Rhine
Heavyweight Exhibition Match

Vontaze Ahn:
Nationality: Quebec and Shingoryeo
Height: 6'5"
Weight: 258 lb
Record: 0-0

Deondre Rhine:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 6'6"
Weight: 260 lb
Record: 0-0

Result: Vontaze Ahn by TKO, Round 2 0:09

We want to emphasize that Diamond Rhine is an idiot for taking this fight. Vontaze Ahn is one of the meanest human beings on the planet and is one of the cornerstones of the best defense in Ranorian football, only a season removed from securing a defensive player of the year award in his advanced age - the only man to ever do that both in Quebec and Ranoria. And he hates quarterbacks.

Deondre Rhine is the larger of the two, a freak of nature at the quarterback position, but his taking this fight was met with a ton of criticism from both his teammates on and fans of the Dietrich Dynamos. The star quarterback has been much maligned since high school and his antics don't appear to be stopping as he accepted this fight with the Quebecois philanthropist...and he got pieced up. Big and strong is one thing, but Diamond Rhine is clearly no fighter. Vontaze Ahn beat the living shit out of him for five minutes in the first round to the point that Rhine was immedietely sent to a local hospital after the fight with several broken ribs and a broken orbital, only to knock him out inside ten seconds of the second round once he got bored. This was the big money draw of the event, and anyone who can't stand Diamond Rhine, well... what they got out of it was priceless.

[Ranoria]

RFL 2031 Season Part 1:
Abram Fairbanks, Welcome to the Next Level


Abram Fairbanks has been a demon as a rookie, leading the suddenly loaded Sabers defense to the top seed in the conference so far and the third best defense in the league

1: Pittsburgh Ironmen
2: Ranoria City Falcons
3: Indianapolis Hogs
4: Highport Hawks
5: Madison Gladiators
6: Ranoria City Silver
7: Fiston Redwolves
8: Berlin Snow Bears
9: Nashville Sabercats
10: Yellowknife Wraiths
11: Rouyoutte Colts
12: Fermete Marauders
13: North Ashialand Dreadnaughts
14: Balafre Bootleggers
15: Dietrich Dynamos
16: Apollotown Sabers

Ranorian Conference:
Through 12 weeks, Abram Fairbanks has been the star of the show. The monster out of Loyola-Istria is spearheading the Sabers' bid to secure the first seed in a loaded conference. With Leon Elliot at safety on the back end and Jarrett Hauptmann productive as ever at the other DE spot, this defense has suddenly taken leaps and bounds after having the worst record in the league a year ago. They narrowly overtook the Berlin Snow Bears - who made some savvy moves this offseason - for that top spot a week ago.

With eight teams at 7 or more wins - including perennial contenders in the Highport Hawks at 7-5 currently out of the playoffs and five teams with nine wins, the race for not just that top seed, but the playoffs alone, will be as tight as it can be in the final four weeks of the season on this side. Sarai Gwenderyn's Ranoria City Falcons - reigning champions - currently slot in at fourth seed thanks to a 30-20 victory over John Garrett's Indianapolis Hogs, who currently have the best offense in the league. We'll see if that win comes up later in the season with playoff implications or even awards voting.

National Conference:
Meanwhile, the Yellowknife Wraiths and Pittsburgh Ironmen still sit atop the other side of the league, manned by aging veterans in Zach Skinner for the Wraiths and Angelo Gordon and Vontaze Ahn for the Ironmen. Speculation is that Ahn is playing in his final professional season, and while he isn't the same uber-dominant player he was in his prime, he and Gordon still head the best defense in Ranoria.

Speaking of Gordon - with 7 sacks through 12 games, he's just two shy of Justin Kearse's all-time record of 140 career sacks. With 3 DPOY awards, 3 titles, 5 championship appearances, and two World Bowl championships, Gordon's already arguably the best player in Ranorian history. Breaking that mark will only cement his case. Quarterback Ryan Applehort is having a strong season as well, with 2,904 yards and 19 touchdowns to 9 picks through 12 games to ensure the offense carries their weight.

Despite fielding the third best defense in the RFL led by Thorn Davis, the Ranoria City Silver are on the verge of missing the playoffs with the Dietrich Dynamos breathing down their neck. With Diego Rodriguez stepping in for the manic Deondre Rhine, the Dynamos are currently 6-6. They've lost Alessandra Mio, Johnny Farmer, and Diamond Rhine within four seasons - if this team can make the playoffs with that kind of turnover, this coach is going to be winning some awards.

The Letdowns:
First off, so far it's the Highport Hawks and no one else is even close. Headed by a duo likely on the Kohnheadian Mount Rushmore of Football, these guys are in constant title contention. But despite showing out with the 4th best offense in Ranoria, the defense hasn't been up to snuff. Rookie defensive end Robert Lawrence has made his presence known, but damn if it's been enough. Linebacker Rolan Casey and safety Connor Corrin have been in and out of the startng lineup, and the team is currently the 8th seed, two outside the playoffs. That said, in this conference, they're only two games behind the number one seed. Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth have drawn comparisons to all-time legends early in their careers and are only two seasons removed from a championship - can they pull off the impossible one more time?

Two just perplexing squads have to be the Eglise Mountaineers and Fermete Marauders. Both squads have strong talent on defense, but while the Marauders have been far from poor on that side of the ball, Park Mi-Hyeon and Victoria Mio just haven't been able to make up for QB Tony Maulet's constant turnovers. The Mountaineers haven't faired much better, as rookie TE Calista Weathers and 3rd year linebacker Jere Rinaldi are the sole bright spots on a 4-9 squad. Both coaches are likely on the hot seat due to harshly underperforming teams.

The Surprises:

Of course it has to be the Apollotown Sabers. Never discount the importance of a pass rusher, though - they've gone from the worst team in the league, allowing more than 22 points per game, to a potential top seed allowing less than 2 touchdowns per outing. Abram Fairbanks may not only be on the way to a defensive rookie of the year, but a defensive player of the year award, as a rookie - the first man to do that since the vaunted Angelo Gordon.

The Berlin Snow Bears, too, have been dynamic! It's been more of an offensive show for them, but after a trio of South Newlandian national teamsters signed on for the ride, quarterback Mason Warford blossomed into the new weapons. Dhruv Valentine and Rachel Klein have been the dynamic threats that the Ranoria State alumn hasn't had since graduating, and with rookie runner Gauge Lawson outperforming his draft stock in the backfield, that combination's been good for 27 per game. It helps too, of course, that they have the massive Konstantin Vollmacht at nose tackle on defense. The Felswyr State stud and CB Carolyn Bray have shored up the defense more than enough to handle the load on that end.

Candace Ferrett, meanwhile, has been a revelation for the Richardson Fenrirs. Paired with veteran Robin James, she's helped a historically strong team back to relevance. The Fenrirs, who've been slogging since now World Bowl champion coach Thomas Hall left them for the Serpent Eagles, are currently at 9-3, good for fourth in their conference, just barely behind...

The Fiston Redwolves. I mean these guys have always been a playoff-caliber team outside of last year's debacle, but what the actual hell is happening here? Rookie quarterback Lane Proudfoot has stepped into the starting role and flourished, taking advantage of his two Kraut wide receivers to help guide his team to be the 5th best scoring unit in the RFL so far.

QB Bust Watch:

After an 0-1-2 start, former #2 overall pick Aurel "Golden Boy" Strathos has been benched in favor of Wade Keller. Keller, 37, hasn't been much of an improvement, but at least he throws four interceptions and shrugs it off instead of checking down the ball and still barely clearing 50% completion. It hasn't been much comfort to Gideon Kearse, who's been a consistent disruptor to no avail as a rookie.

Kualu Luani - former NSCF MoP and champion with Raynor, has struggled as a rookie, but he's at least been able to show flashes of the upside and moxie he had with the Rockets. Too early to judge the young man yet.

At 3-1-9, the Brittany Walruses have been floundering under Leonardo Torrent's guidance. Very few people will write off a quarterback after their rookie season, and he's still shown flashes, but this is a lost season for him.

Ranorian Conference                        Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Apollotown Sabers                           12    9   0   3   265  166  +99    0.750
 2 Berlin Snow Bears                           12    9   0   3   324  228  +96    0.750
 3 Nashville Sabercats                         12    9   0   3   324  241  +83    0.750
 4 Ranoria City Falcons                        13    9   1   3   409  319  +90    0.731
 5 Indianapolis Hogs                           13    9   0   4   464  296 +168    0.692
 6 Madison Gladiators                          12    8   0   4   252  140 +112    0.667
 7 Sierraville Famers                          13    8   0   5   223  241  −18    0.615
 8 Highport Hawks                              12    7   0   5   372  211 +161    0.583
 9 Balafre Bootleggers                         12    6   1   5   229  267  −38    0.542
10 Lafayette Crusaders                         13    6   0   7   250  302  −52    0.462
11 Calgary Stampede                            12    5   1   6   284  301  −17    0.458
12 Munich  Thrashers                           12    5   0   7   163  208  −45    0.417
13 Fermete Marauders                           12    4   1   7   228  245  −17    0.375
14 Mariana Tigers                              12    3   0   9   269  289  −20    0.250
15 Victorsville Hurricane                      12    2   1   9   192  337 −145    0.208
16 Halifax Blizzard                            12    1   1  10   164  406 −242    0.125
17 Memphis Steamers                            12    1   0  11   186  401 −215    0.083

National Conference                        Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Yellowknife Wraiths                         13   11   0   2   286  150 +136    0.846
 2 Pittsburgh Ironmen                          12   10   1   1   311  143 +168    0.875
 3 Fiston  Redwolves                           12    9   0   3   328  192 +136    0.750
 4 Richardson Fenrirs                          12    9   0   3   240  197  +43    0.750
 5 Rouyotte Colts                              12    7   1   4   225  183  +42    0.625
 6 Ranoria City Silver                         12    7   0   5   407  293 +114    0.583
 7 Dietrich Dynamos                            12    6   0   6   253  188  +65    0.500
 8 Vancouver Yeti                              12    6   0   6   183  187   −4    0.500
 9 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts                12    5   2   5   215  175  +40    0.500
10 Herot Paladins                              12    5   1   6   208  226  −18    0.458
11 Menagerie Pioneers                          12    4   1   7   227  269  −42    0.375
12 New Quebec Quebecois                        12    4   1   7   217  287  −70    0.375
13 Port Kruger Phalanx                         12    4   1   7   210  320 −110    0.375
14 Edmunton Eagles                             13    4   1   8   184  228  −44    0.346
15 Eglise Mountaineers                         13    4   0   9   147  254 −107    0.308
16 Brittanny Walruses                          13    3   1   9   204  342 −138    0.269
17 Lorcondan National Team                     12    1   0  11   154  365 −211    0.083

[Ranoria]

RFL 2031 Season Part 2: Late Pushes By Superstar Quarterbacks Vaunt Teams Up the Bracket


Byron Joseph helped catapult his team from a 7-5 start that saw them on the outside looking in to a 4-0 finish to secure the 3rd seed in the playoffs

Strong Finishes:

The Hawks of course were the most exciting - they started the season 7-5, 8th seed in their conference - well outside of a playoff berth with two tough games ahead of them. The Indianapolis Hogs sported the best offense in the game led by John Garrett in week 14, and in week 16 they'd have to take on the Madison Gladiators. The Gladiators consistently field one of the top defenses in the RFL, and were coming for heads after missing the playoffs last season. Well, never count Byron Joseph out. After he established a quick 24-10 lead going into halftime, he and Herman Whitworth played total ball control in the second, keeping John Garrett and his crew off the field by running the ball constantly with both superstars breaking the 100 yard mark on the day en route to a 41-23 drubbing. After a 26-13 win over Lafayette got them to 9-5, they got to the Gladiators, and this time, it was all defense. With two veteran pass rushers in William Teller and Douglas Starling, a star corner in Emilio von Arris, and one of the best safeties in the game in Judas Wolfson, Joseph struggled to move the ball and comitted three turnovers, but it was Robert Lawrence's time to shine. The rookie has quickly established himself as the leader of this defense, and thoroughly disrupted the Gladiators' Vice Jackson III-led rushinga attack with three tackles for loss and a sack on the day to help pitch a shutout. The win knocked the gladiators out of the playoffs and got the Hawks into the sixth seed before a week 17 win over the Mariana Tigers put them all the way up at 3.

Next up is none other than Sarai Gwenderyn and the Falcons. With four straight blowouts to close the season, Gwenderyn and Mio have been untouchable at the tail end of the regular season, averaging 35 points per game in that stretch including a 36-19 win over the first-seed Berlin Snow Bears and capped off by running the Calgary Stampede right out of the Superdome in week 17, 43-25. With John Garrett's Hogs at 11-5 and finishing 2-1, SMG has made her case for the league's MVP honors - she hasn't quite produced the same offensive numbers as Garrett this season, but the record and finish will get her voters come awards season.

If she wins it? No one will have to look far for her help - Alessandra Mio has been a gamebreaker from the word go, and with already three rings in her trophy case, the wideout continues to dominate with her collegiate teammate under center.

Peaked Early?

After going 9-3 to kick things off, the Apollotown Sabers looked to be the class of their conference, but after finishing 2-2 they fell to the third seed in their conference. 20-15 loss to the Berlin Snow Bears - a fight many expected to determine the first seed - didn't help, but the 36-20 loss they suffered to the RC Falcons saw the most points they surrendered all season as Fairbanks and Hauptmann struggled to get to Gwenderyn, who displayed incredible pocket presence in that game despite her mobile background. Those losses to top-caliber teams bode ill for their prospects as the playoffs come around - can they re-capture their early-season momentum? Regardless, Abram Fairbanks hasn't slowed down - he finished the season with a 14 tackles for loss and a league-leading 17 sacks.

The Fiston Redwolves also fall into this category. The Fiston Redwolves finished 2-2 including a 36-3 loss to the playoff-chasing Dietrich Dynamos, who were led by first year starter Diego Rodriguez. Lane Proudfoot threw three interceptions in that game - he hadn't thrown more than one all season - but fans needn't worry. Their squad still finished with a top-5 offense and the second best in the conference behind only Thorn Davis's Ranoria City Silver.

Ranorian Conference                 Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Berlin Snow Bears                 16   13   0   3   400  266 +134    0.812
 2 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   1   3   513  364 +149    0.781
 3 Highport Hawks                    16   11   0   5   494  277 +217    0.688
 4 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   11   0   5   551  387 +164    0.688
 5 Apollotown Sabers                 16   11   0   5   324  239  +85    0.688
 6 Nashville Sabercats               16   11   0   5   402  331  +71    0.688
 7 Madison Gladiators                16   10   0   6   329  214 +115    0.625
 8 Sierraville Famers                16    8   0   8   236  308  −72    0.500
 9 Balafre Bootleggers               16    7   2   7   295  336  −41    0.500
10 Fermete Marauders                 16    7   1   8   326  296  +30    0.469
11 Munich  Thrashers                 16    6   0  10   215  289  −74    0.375
12 Lafayette Crusaders               16    6   0  10   289  397 −108    0.375
13 Calgary Stampede                  16    5   2   9   391  432  −41    0.375
14 Mariana Tigers                    16    5   0  11   343  360  −17    0.312
15 Victorsville Hurricane            16    4   1  11   278  409 −131    0.281
16 Halifax Blizzard                  16    3   1  12   228  449 −221    0.219
17 Memphis Steamers                  16    2   0  14   259  519 −260    0.125

National Conference                 Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   14   0   2   398  166 +232    0.875
 2 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16   13   1   2   400  196 +204    0.844
 3 Richardson Fenrirs                16   11   1   4   299  247  +52    0.719
 4 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   11   0   5   417  269 +148    0.688
 5 Rouyotte Colts                    16   10   1   5   319  269  +50    0.656
 6 Ranoria City Silver               16    9   0   7   531  401 +130    0.562
 7 Vancouver Yeti                    16    9   0   7   270  253  +17    0.562
 8 Dietrich Dynamos                  16    8   0   8   332  222 +110    0.500
 9 Herot Paladins                    16    7   1   8   245  266  −21    0.469
10 Edmunton Eagles                   16    6   1   9   262  265   −3    0.406
11 New Quebec Quebecois              16    6   1   9   254  354 −100    0.406
12 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts      16    5   3   8   267  276   −9    0.406
13 Menagerie Pioneers                16    5   1  10   284  355  −71    0.344
14 Brittanny Paladins                16    5   1  10   240  395 −155    0.344
15 Port Kruger Phalanx               16    5   1  10   262  419 −157    0.344
16 Eglise Mountaineers               16    4   0  12   163  332 −169    0.250
17 Lorcondan National Team           16    2   0  14   187  445 −258    0.125

Regular Season Statistical Leaders

Yards:
J. Garrett: 4,350
S. Gwenderyn: 4,084
T. Davis: 4,004
L. Proudfoot: 3,975
B. Joseph: 3,840

Touchdowns:
S. Gwenderyn: 38
J. Garrett: 36
T. Davis: 35
B. Joseph: 30
L. Proudfoot: 29

Yards:
H. Whitworth: 1,777
V. Jackson III: 1,690
G. Lawson: 1,670
A. Eshter: 1,549
W. Farnick: 1,518

Touchdowns:
H. Whitworth: 20
G. Lawson: 16
A. Esther: 15
W. Farnick: 13
V. Jackson III: 11

Catches:
R. Klein: 95
A. Mio: 94
J. Fletcher: 92
W. Carey: 90
K. Kweo-Atkison: 90

Yards:
A. Mio: 1405
J. Fletcher: 1382
R. Klein: 1274
I. Rodriguez: 1184
K. Kweo-Atkison: 1183

Touchdowns:
A. Mio: 16
K. Kweo-Atkison: 15
V. Schmidt: 14
J. Fletcher: 12
J. Farmer: 12

Sacks/TFL:*
A. Fairbanks: 17/14
A. Vergol: 15.5/17
C. Schmidt: 13.5/18
A. Gordon: 12/12

*Sacks leaders, just including TFL after
Interceptions:
P Mattheu: 8
J Hawkins: 7
C. Arris: 6
A. Virdirian: 6
L. Elliot: 5

Tackles (Combined):
J. Rinaldi: 152
P. Mi-Hyeon: 151
S. Morgan-Horne: 144
T. Clement: 143
J. Ellis: 143

RFL 2031 Postseason:

Blue Teams Have a First Round Bye
Red Teams Have a Home Playoff Game

Ranorian Conference                 Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Berlin Snow Bears                 16   13   0   3   400  266 +134    0.812
 2 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   1   3   513  364 +149    0.781
 3 Highport Hawks                    16   11   0   5   494  277 +217    0.688
 4 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   11   0   5   551  387 +164    0.688
 5 Apollotown Sabers                 16   11   0   5   324  239  +85    0.688
 6 Nashville Sabercats               16   11   0   5   402  331  +71    0.688

National Conference                 Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   14   0   2   398  166 +232    0.875
 2 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16   13   1   2   400  196 +204    0.844
 3 Richardson Fenrirs                16   11   1   4   299  247  +52    0.719
 4 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   11   0   5   417  269 +148    0.688
 5 Rouyotte Colts                    16   10   1   5   319  269  +50    0.656
 6 Ranoria City Silver               16    9   0   7   531  401 +130    0.562

First Round:

Highport vs Nashville

Highport Hawks 51–10 Nashville Sabercats

Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth started off the playoffs with a bang, running Ballast Queen and the Sabercats off the field.

Indianapolis vs Apollotown

Indianapolis Hogs 14–10 Apollotown Sabers

Abram Fairbanks's rookie season may have been electric, but Farmboy Garrett is still one of the best quarterbacks in the world - late game heroics lifted the Hogs over the Sabers.

Richardson vs Ranoria City

Richardson Fenrirs 13–33 Ranoria City Silver

Thorn Davis ran it up against the Richardson Fenrirs, who sported rookie pass rusher Candace Ferrett, to end their storybook return to the playoffs.

Fiston vs Rouyoutte

Fiston Redwolves 14–3 Rouyoutte Colts

Rouyoutte's defense is far from soft, and they did their job by holding a Proudfoot-led offense to just 14, but their own offense wasn't up to snuff.

RFL 2031 Postseason, Quarterfinals:

Ranorian Conference                 Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Berlin Snow Bears                 16   13   0   3   400  266 +134    0.812
 2 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   1   3   513  364 +149    0.781[/color]
 3 Highport Hawks                    16   11   0   5   494  277 +217    0.688
 4 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   11   0   5   551  387 +164    0.688

National Conference                 Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   14   0   2   398  166 +232    0.875
 2 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16   13   1   2   400  196 +204    0.844
 4 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   11   0   5   417  269 +148    0.688[/color]
 6 Ranoria City Silver               16    9   0   7   531  401 +130    0.562

Quarterfinals:

Berlin vs Indianapolis

Berlin Snow Bears 27–34 Indianapolis Hogs

And down goes the first of the top seeds in the conference! It was a valiant battle, with the Snow Bears taking a 10 point lead going into the fourth quarter, but ultimately the Hogs defense toughened up to slow down Gauge Lawson and Garrett and Farmer connected for the game-tying score before they sealed it in the fourth quarter.

Ranoria City vs Highport

Ranoria City Falcons 33–33 Highport Hawks (39–42 OT)

Revenge game!! After Gwenderyn and Mio's Iron Legion went 2-1 against the Kohnhead Brains (featuring Robert Lawrence, Byron Joseph, and Herman Whitworth), it only added to the sting of Highport's blowout loss to Ranoria City in the Falcons' 2030 championship run. But here, the Hawks fought tooth and nail to stay in this game.

"We just want a chance in the fourth quarter," said Byron Joseph, "That's all." And well, that's what they got. Joseph rallied from a 27-33 deficit to force overtime and get his team the win after three overtime periods. The Falcons - who's kicker missed the kick in 3 OT - likely wish they had a Chromatik kicker to go along with the rest of the players from Mio and Gwenderyn's home nation.

Yellowknife vs Ranoria City

Yellowknife Wraiths 31–59 Ranoria City Silver

What. A. Show. Thorn Davis has long been overlooked despite an NSCF 18 MoP and a 2025 RFL MVP award, but he showed out here, hanging damn near 60 on a defense that had allowed just 10.3 points per game in the regular season. Led by NT legend Zach Skinner, the best defense in the country was suddenly helpless to stop his march as Davis threw for five touchdowns and ran for two more in one of the most dominant showings of his career. Both top conference seeds went out in their first playoff game. The Cold Hill alumn tossed a career-high 35 touchdowns this season - and he appears to only be getting started.

Pittsburgh vs Fiston

Pittsburgh Ironmen 10–9 Fiston Redwolves

Poor Proudfoot - as electric as he'd been all season long, facing up against a defense featuring RFL and QFL great pass rushers in Angelo Gordon and Vontaze Ahn along with plenty of other defensive studs like linebacker Kaiser Belfort and free safety Agnor Viridian, was just too much. Doesn't matter how fast Isaac Rodriguez is if your offensive line's getting tossed around like paper plates. To his credit, Proudfoot did come up huge on his first drive of the fourth quarter, down 7-0, stiff arming a fuming Angelo Gordon while the relatively diminutive pass rusher flailed about against such long arms, and dialed up Rodriguez for a 65 yard touchdown that would've tied the game up if their kicker was worth a dime for every dollar he was paid.

Regardless, it was a hell of a season for the Redwolves and Proudfoot, who continues to show that Cavsux just might no longer be Cavsux.

RFL 2031 Postseason, Conference Championships:

Ranorian Conference                 Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 3 Highport Hawks                    16   11   0   5   494  277 +217    0.688
 4 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   11   0   5   551  387 +164    0.688

National Conference                 Pld    W   D   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 2 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16   13   1   2   400  196 +204    0.844
 6 Ranoria City Silver               16    9   0   7   531  401 +130    0.562

Championship Sunday:

Pittsburgh vs Yellowknife

Pittsburgh Ironmen 9–25 Ranoria City Silver

Thorn Davis will not be denied! The Ironmen fielded the second best defense in the RFL with their plethora of talent on that side and were in a bid to make it their fifth championship berth since drafting Angelo Gordon, their third since signing Vontaze Ahn. Instead, Gordon's collegiate teammate in Thorn Davis defied a brick wall of a defensive unit for the second straight week in a 25-9 thrashing of the Ironmen.

Three of the four teams playing on championship sunday fielded top 4 offenses - is this the dawn of a new era for the RFL?

Indianapolis vs Highport

Indianapolis Hogs 36–41 Highport Hawks

This was the third conference championship matchup between John "Farmboy" Garrett and Byron Joseph. Garrett from Richardson and Joseph from Kohnhead City University - they may have been part of different NSCF eras, but the school rivalry seems to have bled over into the top level of the sport. In 2027, Garrett won 29-23, and in 2028, Joseph won 41-31, although both players eventually lost to Deondre "Diamond" Rhine in those two finals. Joseph and Garrett made the semifinal in 2029 and 2030, respectively, with Joseph bringing home a title in the former.

Each player has - if you're counting, made it to 4 of the last 5 conference championship games. Both teams are as consistent as any fanbase can ask for. And this time, it was the Hawks who came out on top. In an instant classic of a shootout, Herman Whitworth, Vasily Schmidt, and Byron Joseph triumphed over John Garrett, Jeremiah Fletcher, and Johnny Farmer. This one came down to who had the ball last, and it would be Joseph sprinting into the corner and stretching out for the goal post with just seconds on the clock to bring it home.

Here, once again it was a shootout, and for the second straight meeting, Byron Joseph's Hawks triumphed.

Ranorian Football League 2031 Championship

Ranoria City Silver - Highport Hawks
@Karmin-Falce Superdome, Ranoria City, Ranoria (121,450)

Will Byron Joseph and the Hawks make it two championships in three seasons? Or will Thorn Davis - on his third try - finally earn himself a ring to go along with the rest of his hardware?

Regular Season Awards:

OROY: QB Lane Proudfoot, Fiston Redwolves
The Spin: Was there ever any doubt? Proudfoot came in and revitalized a Redwolves franchise that had taken a step back, leaning heavily on an elite cast of wide receivers to lead a top 5 offense in most categories. He was going toe-to-toe with the best of the best in the statistical category. Can the Hero of Cavsar make a splash in the playoffs?

DROY: DE Abram Fairbanks, Apollotown Sabers
The Spin: Was there ever any doubt? Fairbanks came like a shot out of a cannon, and with a new head coach on the sideline to maximize the defensive talent on this team, the Blue Thunder alumn never looked back at the tackles he burnt all season. He racked up plenty of tackles for loss too, showcasing his speed by bringing runners down in the backfield when the run went away from him. No rookie besides maybe Proudfoot has the impact on their team that Fairbanks did this season.

OPOY: HB Herman Whitworth, Highport Hawks
The Spin: About time! Whitworth is the most talented runner in the league, especially with old VJIII fading just a bit. The Highport Hawks now have two OPOY winners in the backfield between he and Byron Joseph, as Whitworth led the league in rushing yards and scores, racking up a whopping 20 of the latter.

DPOY: DE Abram Fairbanks, Apollotown Sabers
The Spin: Not much more to be said here - the rookie is the first since Angelo Gordon to win a DPOY as a rookie, and led the league in sacks for the 11-5 Apollotown Sabers. All eyes are on the young man to perform in the playoffs, but a blowout loss to the Falcons late in the season has doubters clamoring for their collapse.

Footballer of the Year: TE Dhruv Valentine, Berlin Snow Bears
The Spin: The first year-RFL starter Dhruv Valentine made an immediate impact both on and off the field, reeling in double digit touchdowns and giving Mason Warford a security blanket all year long. Better yet, he donated ample amounts of his salary to homeless shelters, food banks, and other just causes across Ranoria. Valentine's a high-character player, and one that should be a mainstay for the Snow Bears for years to come.

Ranorian Football League MVP, 2031

QB Sarai Gwenderyn - Ranoria City Falcons

The Spin: Gwenderyn led the league in passing touchdowns in her third season and put up her second consecutive 4,000+ yard passing season as the captain of her offense. Throw in 550 rushing yards and 10 scores there, and she was easily the most prolific scoring player this season. Mason Warford didn't quite have the numbers to challenge her bid for MVP, leaving John Garrett as her main competition, but a 30-20 win over Garrett's Hogs - and a better record to boot - sealed the deal here.

In three seasons, Gwenderyn has won the Offensive Rookie of the Year, Footballer of the Year, and now MVP awards, respectively to go along with an RFL championship. The face of Chromatik football isn't going anywhere soon, with her sights set not just on domestic success, but a World Bowl title.

Ranorian Football League Championship, 2031

Highport Hawks 24–27 Ranoria City Silver
Championship MVP: QB Thorn Davis, Ranoria City Silver

And that will do it! Byron Joseph and crew dominated en route to their second championship berth in four seasons but Thorn Davis - who lost on the doorstep of football immortality in both 2025 and 2029, has finally broken through. The Ranoria City silver entrusted the Cold Hill alumn with their first overall pick, and finally, at long, long last he has delivered.

Davis's heroics led to their victory, of course. Byron Joseph drove his team down and took a 24-17 lead with just minutes on the clock, but Davis matched him immedietely after with a drive capped off by a game-winning touchdown with just five seconds on the clock - a goal-line fade to none other than his long time running mate, Kieran Kweo-Atkison, in the corner of the end zone. Once the squib kick made it official, Davis could be seen in tears, having finally broken through and won the gold. After squeaking into the playoffs with the sixth seed, this probably wasn't the season anyone was expecting them to win it all - but hell, this is the guy that put the Cold Hill Buffalo on the map.

He's used to a comeback story.

[Ranoria]

RFL 2032 Season Part 1:
"It's Hunting Season" Say Hawks, Off To Franchise-Best 12-0 Start As Joseph, Whitworth, Score Seemingly At Will


As expected from a team with 2 of the last 3 Offensive Players of the Year, The Hawks Offense has been electric, scoring just under 32 points per game this season

1: Ranoria City Falcons
2: Indianapolis Hogs
3: Highport Hawks
4: Madison Gladiators
5: Ranoria City Silver
6: Pittsburgh Ironmen
7: Fiston Redwolves
8: Berlin Snow Bears
9: Richardson Fenrirs
10: Nashville Sabercats
11: Fermete Marauders
12: Apollotown Sabers
13: Rouyoutte Colts
14: Yellowknife Wraiths
15: Dietrich Dynamos
16: Balafe Bootleggers

Ranorian Conference:


After last season saw upstart squads like the Apollotown Sabers and Berlin Snow Bears jump out to early leads for the conference title, it's back to the traditional powerhouses this time - well, at least one of them. Of the "Big 3" quarterbacks in the league, only Byron Joseph has truly flourished this season - leading his team to a 12-0 mark to kick things off with the help of old Herman Whitworth, who ran for a whopping 20 touchdowns last season. Joseph's growth as a passer has been evident - with most mobile quarterbacks, teams would bring a bunch of players down into the box, but doing that means he'll hit projected Krauts starting TE Vasily Schmidt over the top. They already knocked off the championship-favorite Falcons 32-27 in a primetime week 5 showdown - the Indianapolis Hogs are the biggest threat, now, to their perfect season.

Meanwhile, the Indianapolis Hogs and Ranoria City Falcons have sputtered out of the gate - the Hogs sit at a not-too-shabby 8-4 with the 2nd best offense in football while the Falcons, with the third best scoring unit, are 7-5. If the season ended today, they'd be one slot out of the playoffs, thanks in part to the Fermete Marauders, who made a big swing this offseason trading for Steamers quarterback Sheila Pantoja. After going 2-14 with the Steamers in her first season as a starter, the Marauders front office clearly saw something they liked in the young passer, especially after wasting three years of Park Mi-Hyeon's stellar play at linebacker and with cornerback Victoria Mio coming into her prime as a sophomore. That swing paid off - they're currently the 6th seed at 7-4, and have allowed the second fewest points in the league with just 122. "Turnover differential," said Mi-Hyeon, in her third year of captaincy now, "Our teammates do a great job taking care of it on the other side, and we do what we can to get it back for them." Indeed, Pantoja's production has been less than stellar, but she's thrown just three interceptions so far this season.

After an electric season in 2031, don't worry - the Sabers are picking up right where they left off. The Sabers have surrendered just 125 points as Abram Fairbanks continues to be a menace off the edge, highlighted by a 3-sack showing with a forced fumble to beat out John Garrett's Hogs, 27-6.

Also notable - former star QB at Cosumarite Stoneshore University Ballast Queen became one of 2 quarterbacks in RFL history to throw 7 touchdowns in a single game, hanging 448 yards on the hapless Memphis Steamers. "We weren't trying to set any records," Queen was humble after the outburst, "But they just turned the ball over so much, we couldn't help it."

National Conference:

Yeah, so while the Hawks are 12-0 over in the Ranorian conference, the Ironmen are 11-0 here in the National, despite this being the first season in nearly a decade that saw them ranked outside the top 3 in RSNN's or the RFL's own power rankings. Angelo Gordon isn't himself anymore - this isn't the guy that's gonna rack up 17 sacks and make you consider casting your MVP vote for a defensive player. And without Vontaze Ahn - the only player to ever win a DPOY in both the RFL and QFL - on the other edge, sure, he's got his hands full, but he keeps his team playing mean as the spearhead of this unit, while second year pro linebacker Kaiser Belfort devours anyone who dares run his way. They have yet to play the Fiston Redwolves, who are rolling at 10-1 on the arm of the "Cavsaran Casanova," Lane Proudfoot, who currently leads the RFL in passing yards with the 5th best scoring unit in the league, 2nd best in the National conference.

Proudfoot - who's putting up a masterclass of quarterbacking this season - is primed for a late season, primetime showdown with the unbeaten Ironmen to likely decide who leaves atop the national conference. Could he secure MVP consideration with a big performance on the national stage?

The Letdowns:

So far, the Ranoria City Falcons definitely top our list. They still boast a winning record and a top-3 offense, but a defense that's been a sieve for two years running now is doing them no favors and at this rate is becoming an Achilles heel for the team only two years removed from the most prestigious domestic gridiron crown there is.

After them, it's the Berlin Snow Bears - this team has been plagued by inconsistency this season, and has been crushed in games against top level teams. Most recently, the Nashville Sabercats slaughtered them, 47-13 in week 11, despite playing in a temporary stadium while their new home is finished up. The Snow Bears were mercifully granted a bye, but at 5-6 in this stacked conference, they may have already kissed their playoff hopes goodbye. Rachel Klein and Dhruv Valentine have been stellar though, with the former routinely tormenting cornerbacks - she currently leads the league in receptions.

The 0-11 Memphis Steamers have been the worst Ranorian team in the league thus far - it's clear Sheila Pantoja wasn't the problem as they've scored just 155 points in 11 games.

And finally, the Dietrich Dynamos round up this list. After Diego Rodriguez dragged this team to an 8-8 record last season, some were considering him an MVP dark horse. He'd dragged Swisston University to relevance in the best conference in college football - who's to say he couldn't do the same with the Dynamos? Unfortunately, his crew have scored just 18.7 points per game - down from 20.7 last season - and are in the gutter at 4-7. Rodriguez can hardly be blamed for a roster with bereft of talent outside star corner Paul Mattieu and linebacker Sean Morgan-Horne, but with a fanbase still grasping for the wisps of Deondre Rhine's brief peak, will that be enough to excuse him?

The Surprises:

Where the hell did the Balafre Bootleggers come from!? At 7-4, this team has consistently been among the worst in the league, and all of a sudden they're taking the league by storm without a single runner inside the top 25 rushing leaders. They rotate their backs on nearly a per-drive basis, sometimes more, and...it's working. FB Oskar Streicher has been a beast, paving the way and scoring 8 rushing touchdowns for them - is their collapse inevitable though?

We already mentioned them briefly, but the Fermete Marauders have also been having a stellar season after too many seasons now of wasting a generational talent at inside linebacker. Park Mi-Hyeon has firmly established herself as the best in the league at her position now, as she's on pace for a monstrous 170 tackles this season, and she's already notched 2 interceptions and a nice 8 pass deflections. Some teams have simply tried to throw over her, but frankly Victoria Mio's obscene range just makes that incredibly dangerous, she's already notched 3 interceptions and 14 pass deflections of her own. To be clear, that's 27 passes these two have either knocked down or picked off through 12 games. Pick your poison, eh?

The Richardson Fenrirs are also, finally, back. At 8-3, they've relied on youngster Candace Ferrett and veteran Robin James to make passers uncomfortable while Tim Hunt and WR Deshawn Fredericks, both second year pros, get the job done on offense.

Finally, the Rouyoutte Colts. Also at 8-3, this is nothing short of mastery at coaching by Krauts assistant Jack Halifax, who's taken the reigns to this offense. He understands his role - don't screw things up, and put up 17 points so that Albus Vergol and his defense can get the job done. Under his guidance, QB Jay Garrian has been used largely as a game manager, taking no more than a couple deep shots a game to keep the defense honest, while Vergol is on track to give Mi-Hyeon her only real challenger for Defensive Player of the Year. Linebacker Alder King, a second year pro, has been phenomenal as well as run-stopping guru.


QB Bust Watch:

Again, Leonardo Torrent. The Brittany Walruses started off 1-11 to make it a second lost season under Torrent's guidance. The kid's a good locker room presence and has kept his nose out of trouble - no one questions his leadership or work ethic, to the point that
he still reportedly has his locker room's confidence despite generating just over 12 points per game. But the front office can and will lose patience with him should he fail to show promise down the stretch.

Kualu Luani, meanwhile, is in a bit of a different spot. After a 7-1-8 record with just over 15 pp/g last season, he's got his team at 5-6...scoring just under 15 pp/g. He's proven he's competent at least - his Herot Paladins have been playing better than when they drafted him, but if he shows no signs of growth after this season, it's not unlikely that ownership will want someone else leading the team out in Salvation Arena.

Ranorian Conference                 Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Highport Hawks                    12   12   0   383  264 +119    1.000
 2 Madison Gladiators                11    9   2   230  130 +100    0.818
 3 Apollotown Sabers                 11    8   3   255  125 +130    0.727
 4 Indianapolis Hogs                 12    8   4   379  349  +30    0.667
 5 Balafre Bootleggers               11    7   4   237  225  +12    0.636
 6 Fermete Marauders                 11    7   4   211  122  +89    0.636
 7 Ranoria City Falcons              12    7   5   370  286  +84    0.583
 8 Nashville Sabercats               11    6   5   329  234  +95    0.545
 9 Calgary Stampede                  11    6   5   302  305   −3    0.545
10 Berlin Snow Bears                 11    5   6   318  301  +17    0.455
11 Munich  Thrashers                 11    5   6   189  183   +6    0.455
12 Mariana Tigers                    11    4   7   273  310  −37    0.364
13 Sierraville Famers                12    4   8   240  325  −85    0.333
14 Lafayette Crusaders               12    4   8   227  242  −15    0.333
15 Halifax Blizzard                  11    2   9   178  320 −142    0.182
16 Victorsville Hurricane            11    2   9   152  309 −157    0.182
17 Memphis Steamers                  11    0  11   155  398 −243    0.000

National Conference                 Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Pittsburgh Ironmen                11   11   0   271  125 +146    1.000
 2 Fiston  Redwolves                 11   10   1   335  121 +214    0.909
 3 Rouyotte Colts                    11    8   3   227  138  +89    0.727
 4 Richardson Fenrirs                11    8   3   272  173  +99    0.727
 5 Yellowknife Wraiths               12    8   4   236  183  +53    0.667
 6 Eglise Mountaineers               12    7   5   229  188  +41    0.583
 7 Ranoria City Silver               11    6   5   339  287  +52    0.545
 8 Menagerie Pioneers                11    6   5   212  220   −8    0.545
 9 Port Kruger Phalanx               11    5   6   155  229  −74    0.455
10 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts      11    5   6   216  159  +57    0.455
11 New Quebec Quebecois              11    5   6   220  231  −11    0.455
12 Herot Paladins                    11    5   6   179  194  −15    0.455
13 Dietrich Dynamos                  11    4   7   206  178  +28    0.364
14 Edmunton Eagles                   12    4   8   200  285  −85    0.333
15 Vancouver Yeti                    11    3   8   124  324 −200    0.273
16 Brittanny Paladins                12    1  11   148  308 −160    0.083
17 Lorcondan National Team           12    0  12    85  311 −226    0.000

[Ranoria]

RFL 2032 Season Part 2: Garrett, Gwenderyn, Barely Sneak Into Playoffs, Redwolves Spoil Pittsburgh's Bid At Undefeated Season


The Hogs Nearly Slipped Out Of The Playoffs In the Final Stretch, Going 1-2 in their final 3 as a banged-up John Garrett worked to overcome the 5th worst defense in the Ranorian Football League. John Garrett, who played in 13 games during the regular season and went 10-3, has become the second quarterback in RFL history to surpass 50,000 career passing yards. He's still well shy of all-time leader Bo-Callahan's mark of 64,539, but in a run-first league it's an incredible benchmark, nonetheless.

Strong Finishes:

The Bootleggers were a huge surprise this season. Their dominant rushing attack paid dividends as they won three straight games to close out the season and make the playoffs as the 4th seed at 11-5.

And of course, we wouldn't be doing our due diligence without paying respect to the 15-1 Highport Hawks. Despite slipping up in a 28-27 loss against a Lafayette Crusaders team that finished 6-10, the Hawks posted their best record in franchise history, and Herman "Warhawk" Whitworth was on a tear - piling up an RFL single season record 2,107 yards as as he and quarterback Byron Joseph beat defenses any which way they pleased all season long. They'd finish with the 2nd best offense in the league, scoring 30.9 points per game on their way to the first seed in the Ranorian conference playoffs.

Just like last season, we have to point out the Ranoria City Falcons. After starting the season 7-6, Sarai Gwenderyn rallied her crew to a 3-0 finish and squeaked into the playoffs as the 5th seed, including a tight 16-14 win over reigning DPOY Abram Fairbanks' Apollotown Sabers in week 16.

And of course - we have to mention everyone's favorite shocker, the Fiston Redwolves. Despite an early loss to the Yellowknife Wraiths, the Redwolves refused to go away as the perennial powerhouse Pittsburgh Ironmen shot off to a 13-0 start, and stayed nipping at their heels at 12-1 prior to a week 15 showdown in Pittsburgh. In one of the most highly-anticipated games of the regular season, the defensive Ironmen and the emerging Redwolves went back and forth for three quarters, coming out 3-3 late in the fourth before the Ironmen notched a field goal with just minutes on the clock.

But 2nd-year Redwolves QB Proudfoot and Ironmen great defensive end Angelo Gordon had done this dance before. Despite all the hits, Proudfoot stood strong in the pocket, stepping up time and time again, eating hits galore before he dialed up Calvin Hale on a quick slant to knock in the game-winning touchdown to take the first seed from the Ironmen. Pittsburgh's veteran QB, Ryan Applehort, just couldn't quite march down the field to take back the win.

Peaked Early?

After an incredible 13-0 start to the season, the Ironmen, as we said above, fell to the Fiston Redwolves. Seems like they haven't quite recovered yet from the loss - they proceeded to fall 21–17 to the Menagerie Pioneers, who finished the season 8-8, and nearly lost to the Port Kruger Phalanx, who would end at 7-9. And that was only because former #2 overall pick Aurel Strathos, who'd been benched midseason in 2031, was thrown back into the lineup after Kaiser Belfort knocked out the Phalanx's starting quarterback, Danny Flowers, with a helmet-to-helmet hit. Strathos finished the game 1/3, and blew the 16-13 lead when he was strip sacked inside his own 30 by Angelo Gordon. Will the win help them get their mojo back? Regardless, they still secured a bye with the 2nd seed at 14-2.

But really, it's the Fermete Marauders who are this season's heartbreak story. After starting the season 7-4, with Iron Legion starter Park Mi-Hyeon on track for DPOY worthy season and Victoria Mio snatching passes and breaking hearts in the secondary, disaster struck. Victoria Mio suffered a collarbone injury tackling projected Krauts starting RB Apollo Esther in a week 13 loss to the Mariana Tigers. The injury is a rare one, only occurring with a ton of force in a tackle generally, and with Victoria's high-energy playing style and Esther's bruising one, bad luck was the only thing left to add to the equation. Without the cornerstone of their defense, the Marauders finished up the season on a dismal 1-4 stretch and ended the season 8-8 to miss the playoffs for the 4th straight season, as their pass defense was completely exposed without Victoria locking down one side of the field, and trusting her instincts to abandon her spot and make a play at times. With Mi-Hyeon and Sheila Pantoja's contracts expiring, the Marauders will have to work hard to retain their two core pieces in a bid to run it back next season. The latter, however, proved that she is a starting-caliber quarterback at this level, nearly guiding the Marauders to the playoffs in her first year under center there.

The Richardson Fenrirs also lost two of their last three close out the season. Fortunately they'd already clinched playoffs with 10 wins on the back of a passing attack fueled by Tim Hunt dialing up Deshawn Fredericks, but it was an alarming sign nonetheless. mind you, those losses came to the 15-1 Fiston Redwolves and the 12-4 Rouyoutte Colts, but those are teams they'll have to be able to overcome in the playoffs.

And while we can't really say they ever peaked this season, the Berlin Snow Bears were a massive disappointment. A year after a 13-3, top-seed campaign that saw them play all-world quarterback John Garrett to a 1 score game, they fell to 9-7, two seeds out of the playoffs. The offense can't be blamed - they were actually 2 points per game better than a season ago, scoring 437 this season as opposed to 400 last year, with Rachel Klein even leading the league with 109 receptions. But their defense collapsed - allowing 24.6 points per game after surrendering just 16.6 a season ago. They'll have to improve on that side of the ball, but Mason Warford posting a 23/20 TD/INT ratio didn't help them on that side of the ball.

Ranorian Conference                 Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Highport Hawks                    16   15   1   494  329 +165    0.938
 2 Madison Gladiators                16   13   3   352  183 +169    0.812
 3 Apollotown Sabers                 16   11   5   350  190 +160    0.688
 4 Balafre Bootleggers               16   11   5   334  297  +37    0.688
 5 Ranoria City Falcons              16   10   6   473  341 +132    0.625
 6 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   10   6   482  423  +59    0.625
 7 Nashville Sabercats               16    9   7   442  322 +120    0.562
 8 Berlin Snow Bears                 16    9   7   436  394  +42    0.562
 9 Fermete Marauders                 16    8   8   313  245  +68    0.500
10 Calgary Stampede                  16    8   8   425  440  −15    0.500
11 Munich  Thrashers                 16    7   9   257  276  −19    0.438
12 Lafayette Crusaders               16    6  10   323  342  −19    0.375
13 Mariana Tigers                    16    6  10   364  442  −78    0.375
14 Sierraville Famers                16    4  12   272  430 −158    0.250
15 Victorsville Hurricane            16    4  12   242  409 −167    0.250
16 Halifax Blizzard                  16    3  13   233  474 −241    0.188
17 Memphis Steamers                  16    2  14   263  518 −255    0.125

National Conference                 Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   15   1   476  203 +273    0.938
 2 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16   14   2   387  183 +204    0.875
 3 Rouyotte Colts                    16   12   4   329  232  +97    0.750
 4 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   11   5   322  246  +76    0.688
 5 Richardson Fenrirs                16   10   6   368  242 +126    0.625
 6 Ranoria City Silver               16    9   7   502  412  +90    0.562
 7 New Quebec Quebecois              16    9   7   356  341  +15    0.562
 8 Eglise Mountaineers               16    8   8   262  239  +23    0.500
 9 Menagerie Pioneers                16    8   8   262  313  −51    0.500
10 Dietrich Dynamos                  16    7   9   322  245  +77    0.438
11 Edmunton Eagles                   16    7   9   270  304  −34    0.438
12 Port Kruger Phalanx               16    7   9   202  322 −120    0.438
13 Herot Paladins                    16    6  10   227  315  −88    0.375
14 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts      16    5  11   303  289  +14    0.312
15 Vancouver Yeti                    16    5  11   169  398 −229    0.312
16 Brittanny Paladins                16    3  13   230  408 −178    0.188
17 Lorcondan National Team           16    0  16   126  421 −295    0.000

RFL 2031 Postseason:

Blue Teams Have a First Round Bye
Red Teams Have a Home Playoff Game

Ranorian Conference                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
1 Highport Hawks                    16   15   1   494  329 +165    0.938
 2 Madison Gladiators                16   13   3   352  183 +169    0.812
 3 Apollotown Sabers                 16   11   5   350  190 +160    0.688
 4 Balafre Bootleggers               16   11   5   334  297  +37    0.688
 5 Ranoria City Falcons              16   10   6   473  341 +132    0.625
 6 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   10   6   482  423  +59    0.625

National Conference                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   15   1   476  203 +273    0.938
 2 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16   14   2   387  183 +204    0.875
 3 Rouyotte Colts                    16   12   4   329  232  +97    0.750
 4 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   11   5   322  246  +76    0.688
 5 Richardson Fenrirs                16   10   6   368  242 +126    0.625
 6 Ranoria City Silver               16    9   7   502  412  +90    0.562

First Round:

Apollotown vs Indianapolis

Apollotown Sabers 26–30 Indianapolis Hogs

This was a game of overcoming defenses. Well, overcoming two defenses. John Garrett was fighting to stay upright against second-year pro Abram Fairbanks's defense, which allowed just under 12 points per game during the regular season, and trying to keep his own from throwing away a potential playoff run. Farmboy was far from himself - he played just 13 games during the regular season and barely cleared the three thousand yard mark while tossing a 3 year low 23 scores to an 11 interceptions(his most since 2026), but he managed to stay alive for one more week much thanks to the safety blanket of Johnny Farmer and one explosive touchdown by wideout Jeremiah Fletcher, who dashed for 50 yards after the catch on a 57 yard touchdown in the second quarter.

Balafre vs Ranoria City Falcons

Balafre Bootleggers 24–36 Ranoria City Falcons

Let's be honest - the Bootleggers were a nice story, but they're not a playoff worthy team. Their smashmouth approach may have been enough to limit the possessions and disrupt the rhythm of some explosive offenses, but Sarai Gwenderyn and Alessandra Mio don't need the ball often to make you pay. The reigning MVP never blinked at the lack of time of possession, scoring on each of her first five drives to take a commanding 27-14 lead over the run-dominant offense.

Rouyoute vs Ranoria City Silver

Rouyoutte Colts 27–17 Ranoria City Silver

There's our first upset! The reigning champions in Thorn Davis's Ranoria City Falcons scraped into the playoffs with the 6th seed just like last year, but this time with the best offense in the league...only to get shut down byt the Rouyoutte Colts. Albus Vergol, Ben Harris, and Alder King combined for 5 sacks on the aging Davis en route to a 27-17 route.

Yellowknife vs Richardson

Yellowknife Wraiths 20–10 Richardson Fenrirs

QB Tim Hunt and wideout Deshawn Fredericks were an electric combination during the regular season. Candace Ferrett a consistent force off the edge. Make no mistake, the Fenrirs are back, but they'd fall in the first round for a second straight season, this time to a Wraiths team chasing one last title run with an aging and expensive but still solid roster.

RFL 2031 Postseason, Quarterfinals:

Ranorian Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
1 Highport Hawks                    16   15   1   494  329 +165    0.938
 2 Madison Gladiators                16   13   3   352  183 +169    0.812
 5 Ranoria City Falcons              16   10   6   473  341 +132    0.625
 6 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   10   6   482  423  +59    0.625

National Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   15   1   476  203 +273    0.938
 2 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16   14   2   387  183 +204    0.875
 3 Rouyotte Colts                    16   12   4   329  232  +97    0.750
 4 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   11   5   322  246  +76    0.688

Quarterfinals:

Highport vs Indianapolis

Highport Hawks 24–13 Indianapolis Hogs

At this point, it's worth asking if Byron Joseph has John Garrett's number. The Hogs offense was sluggish all day long as Robert Lawrence terrorized their overwhelmed offensive line and Herman Whitworth controlled the clock as he's become so adept at doing. The monstrous runner churned out 143 yards on 29 carries and chipped in a pair of touchdowns to boot.

Madison vs Ranoria City Falcons

Madison Gladiators 31–17 Ranoria City Falcons

Two former Kraut starters at defensive end in big William Teller and speedy Douglas Starling. Perhaps the best strong safety in the world in Judas Wolfson. Veteran corner Emilio von Arris, and Vice Jackson III at running back. That's what it took to slow down this Falcons attack. Von Arris is no Mio, but with he and Wolfson dedicated to shutting down the superstar all game long, they were able to hold her to just a pair of receptions, with Judas Wolfson even picking off a pass when he sniffed out a double move. William Carey held up well as Gwenderyn was able to adapt, but this team was too stacked along the defensive side while the Falcons defense again proved to be their Achilles heel, with a Jeremiah Quill-led offense hanging 31 on them.

Fiston vs Yellowknife

Fiston Redwolves 35–20 Yellowknife Wraiths

So much for what might be the Wraiths' last opportunity at a championship with this core. Calvin Hale reeled in 8 catches for 113 yards and a score while Isaak Rodriguez took in 4 for 97 and a pair of scores himself. The Wraiths pass rush is ferocious, but their secondary was completely outclassed, and couldn't cover up two star wideouts long enough for Proudfoot to ever be in any real danger.

Pittsburgh vs Rouyoute

Pittsburgh Ironmen 13–20 Rouyoutte Colts

Another huge upset! Jay Garrian was able to do just enough at quarterback, as these two defenses combined for 13 sacks in this game. It'll be Colts-Redwolves in the conference final - get the popcorn!

RFL 2031 Postseason, Conference Championships:

Highort Hawks vs Madison Gladiators

Fiston Redwolves vs Rouyoute Colts

Championship Sunday:

Highort vs Madison

Highport Hawks 13–10 Madison Gladiators

This dynamic offense was nothing short of stymied against this front. The Gladiators held the Hawks to less yardage than even the Falcons, and their defense surrendered just 6, going into the fourth quarter with a 10-6 lead. Byron Joseph looked completely hapless. Judas Wolfson was all over the field, sometimes locking up TE Vasily Schmidt, other times coming down to expand the line of scrimmage and keep him from scrambling. Douglas Starling sacked him twice, still having enough speed to run him down, and William Teller was a force on the other side of the line with three tackles for loss.

So what was it? What gave?

Well, it was none other than fan-favorite but objectively incompetent quarterback Jeremiah Quill. On a 3rd and 6 read option, he hesitated, half-pulling the ball from the legendary Vice Jackson III before changing his mind and letting go. The play had been designed to leave star defensive end Robert Lawrence free and react based on his action. Well, with the ball on the ground, his action was to scoop it up and blast through Quill on his way to a dagger of a touchdown to take the lead 13-10. For the second year in a row, and the third time in four seasons, the Highport Hawks were going to the championship.

Fiston vs Rouyoute

Fiston Redwolves 33–10 Rouyoutte Colts

It was never even close. The Colts largely fell victim to the same problem as the Wraiths - their secondary just couldn't contain Calvin Hale and Isaak Rodriguez long enough for them to get any pressure. Lane Proudfoot averaged just 2.5 seconds from snap to throw on his drop backs and was sacked just once by Albie Vergol en route to punching their championship ticket in blowout fashion.

[spoiler]

Ranorian Football League 2032 Championship

Fiston Redwolves - Highport Hawks
@Adelhard Dynamics Dome, Pittsburgh, Ranoria (87,300)

Byron Joseph's Hawks are en route to establishing a dynasty with their third championship appearance in just four seasons - but the 15-1 Redwolves, propelled by elite play from the Hero of Cavsar, the Cavsaran Casanova, Lane Proudfoot, are far from a pushover of a squad. This will be a lights-out offensive clinic...hold on to your hats.

Regular Season Awards:

OROY: HB Franco Buchannon, Balafre Bootleggers
The Bootleggers played 3 running backs this season behind fullback Oskar Streicher, but as the season went on it was the perhaps-insane Buchannon that got more and more carries. The 5'11" menace to society missed 6 quarters due to ejections for fighting and lost his helmet thrice throughout the season as an almost manic running style made up for what may be a lack of top talent. Finished with 1,121 yards and 12 touchdowns on just 187 carries.

DROY: DE Hank Avarine, Fermete Marauders
Every great defense needs at least one good defensive lineman, and Hank brought that to a team that was oh-so-close to making the playoffs. The rookie racked up 9.5 sacks in the first 11 games, but failed to notch another after Victoria Mio went down, highlighting just how difficult she made it for offenses to get the ball down the field.

OPOY: HB Herman Whitworth, Highport Hawks
A year after running for 20 touchdowns, Whitworth shattered the RFL rushing yards record with a whopping 2,107 yards in 2032.

DPOY: ILB Park Mi-Hyeon, Fermete Marauders
It's tough to watch one of the best linebackers in the world play her heart out as the Marauders fail to live up to expectations again, and again, and again. At least this time she'll have some hardware to show for her efforts - Mi-Hyeon will go back to the Iron Legion was the Ranorian Football League's reigning defensive player of the year after leading the league in tackles to go along with four interceptions and five sacks on the season.

Footballer of the Year: WR Larry Foster, Nashville Sabercats
In wake of a hurricane off the coast, Larry Foster made a concerted effort to organize donations and contributed a large sum of his own money to help with relief efforts. His foundation raised 13 million dollars for the disaster relief funds to help keep people fed and housed during recovery.

Ranorian Football League MVP, 2031

HB Herman Whitworth - Highport Hawks
And I bet some of you were wondering why we glossed over his OPOY award?

Whitworth ran for 20 touchdowns last season, and he just ran for 2,107 yards on 377 carries this season. Byron Joseph is a stud on his own, but Whitworth has given this offense a nasty, violent edge that just can't be replicated. In each of the three seasons that he's stayed healthy for, the Hawks have made the championship, and he's put up sixteen hundred + yards. In a league, hell, a conference sporting two of the best five quarterbacks in the world (beyond a doubt, we'd say two of the best three optimistically), the Hawks have raised with a runner who may be the best of a generation.

Ranorian Football League Championship, 2031

Fiston Redwolves 29–30 Highport Hawks
Championship MVP: QB Byron Joseph, Highport Hawks

And make that two for Joseph and crew!

This was the best combined record by two teams going into the final, with each team entering the game 15-1, 17-1 including playoffs. Byron Joseph has firmly established himself as one of the best in the league, and with an only hours-old MVP flanking him in the backfield, all they had to do was take down one of the most explosive offenses on one of the most well-rounded rosters in the game.

As you can see, they did - Byron Joseph found the edge on his final drive and dove for the pylon to take a 30-29 lead, and Lane Proudfoot, who had now scored 29+ points in each of his playoff outings this season, never got a proper chance for a comeback drive. A Robert Lawrence strip sack on the first play of the series robbed the Redwolves of their final timeout, even after Proudfoot recovered the fumble, and all Isaak Rodriguez's speed couldn't get behind a prevent defense on the last, desperate hail mary shot.

Proudfoot has exceeded all expectations in his first two seasons - after bringing Cavsar farther than they'd ever dared to dream in NSCF 26, he's accumulated a starting record of 29-8, including postseason play, in those first two campaigns. His future is bright (hell, he might even earn a seat on the bench for the mighty Grid Corps in the upcoming World Bowl) - but for now, it's Joseph and Whitworth's time to shine.

Notable Off-Season Moves Post 2032:

The 2033 RFL draft will be covered during World Bowl 45. It's hard with this sort of thing to go team-by-team, so I've tagged foreign players with their trigramme. If you're looking for them, use ctrl+f on PC or command+f on MAC and type in that trigramme.
Example: John Garrett[RAN]

First off - head coach Dennis Zervos[BNJ] of the Ranoria City Falcons has elected to resign and take the head coaching position at the University of Loyola-Istria, where he was the offensive coordinator. Zervos will be met with much fanfare, but the Falcons will be losing a coach who helped guide them from a team that went 4-1-27 over a two year stretch to a perennial championship favorite. Zervos posted a 44-2-18 regular season record, 5-3 mark in the playoffs, and a championship in the Ranorian Football League while helping develop Sarai Gwenderyn[CMT] into an MVP winner and arguably the best passer in the league.

Free agency:
WR William Carey[KND], who was drafted with the first pick in the second round of the 2028 draft to the Falcons, will be leaving for the reigning champion Highport Hawks. The move re-united Carey with reigning MVP runner Herman Whitworth[KND] and Byron Joseph[KND], both fellow starters on the Kohnhead Brains national team. In 4 seasons, Carey's racked up 340 receptions for 4,035 yards and 37 touchdowns as the sidekick to all-world wideout Alessandra Mio[CMT].

But the biggest moves of free agency came for the Ranoria City Falcons, too. They may have lost Carey, but they signed both Jere Rinaldi[CMT] and Park Mi-Hyeon[CMT], arguably the best two linebackers in the Ranorian Football League(and in Mi-Hyeon's case, maybe even the world). It's been a tumultuous offseason for the Falcons, who are bringing in Rouyoute Colts offensive coordinator Jack Halifax will be taking over the reigns here. Halifax served as the Krauts' tight end coach during World Bowl 44, and helped quarterback Jay Garrian of the Colts not throw away a near championship-caliber defense.

The Fermete Marauders though, having lost the reigning defensive player of the year, made a few savvy moves in free agency, starting with some help for QB Sheila Pantoja[CMT] in WR Heiner Greitman. Shunning the embarrassingly-bad Menagerie Pioneers, Greitman latched on with the Fermete Marauders on a 2 year, $20,000,000 total contract. Greitman was one of the only bright spots for the Pioneers last season, reeling in 57 balls for 703 yards and 6 touchdowns. But the Marauders weren't done. While he's no replacement for Mi-Hyeon, they signed off-ball linebacker/pass rusher Django Reeves to be the centerpiece of their defense. Finally, they got some offensive line help in center Mikel Kingston[CMT] and guard Donelle Ruffin[CMT]. In a quick-hitting passing attack that a guy like Halifax tends to favor, it should be enough to keep pressure from getting to Pantoja up the middle. Both players came on team-friendly deals after leaving the North Ashialand Dreadnoughts, who have predictably collapsed following the legendary Bo Callahan's retirement.

The Indianapolis Hogs, too, have made some big swings - first off, the signed former Lafayette Crusaders and Raynor Rockets running back Duke Beckett to a four year deal worth 54 million. The move gives the Hogs a lethal assortment of weapons on offense, but their defense was the issue last season - can they account for the 5th worst unit in the league come draft day?

The Pittsburgh Ironmen meanwhile lost 28 year old defensive end Malik Sherman in free agency to the Brittany Walruses. Sherman - who was once viewed as a big-time prospect coming out of Richardson, suffered a catastrophic knee injury that severely hampered his talents. The Ironmen still took him late in the first round, and he was a contributor to a championship team as a rookie in a four defensive end rotation of Angelo Gordon, Vontaze Ahn[QUE], Jarrett Hauptmann, and himself. Ahn has retired, Hauptmann is now a journeyman, and Sherman was not being paid well for his contributions. The Walruses meanwhile needed a splash signing - it was a perfect fit. The Ironmen also lost Krauts starter Agnor Viridian to the Apollotown Sabers, who have been challenging them of late for the title of biggest defensive powerhouse in the RFL. He'll pair up with Leon Elliot to form a formidable duo at safety while superstar Abram Fairbanks continues to wreak havoc up front.

In other news, Paul Mattieu[CMT] has finally escaped the Dietrich Dynamos, leaving Sean Morgan-Horne the last survivor of the Diamond Rhine era. Mattieu - who was drafted after the team's back-to-back title runs - signed with the up-and-coming Richardson Fenrirs, where he'll team up with safety Vincent Black in the secondary. Along with pass rushers Candace Ferret[CMT] and Robin James, they should field a formidable defense that'll make WR Deshawn Fredericks[STK] and QB Tim Hunts[STK] lives a lot easier.

The Ranoria City Silver also - as they oft have throughout their history - paid a hefty sum for 28 year old running back Jojo Huber. The veteran will get 30 million over two years as the Silver continue the strategy that won them their early titles in the pre-salary cap era, and that's to overpay everyone. It's a desperate move - despite winning a title not too long ago, both Thorn Davis and wideout Kieran Kweo-Atkison[QUE] are clearly in the twilight of their careers. Huber should take a bit of the load off for the duo that's carried this franchise for so long as they look to maximize the last couple years of their franchise's savior.

[Ranoria]

Renown Combat International - 250th Edition

Renown Combat International is an international combat sport organization centered in Quebec City and Ranoria City. For more information, see this post.

Main Card:
Damian Mendin vs Pietro S. Corelli
Middleweight Bout

Damian Mendin:
Nationality: Delaclava
Height: 6'
Weight: 204 lb
Record: 34-17

Pietro S. Corelli:
Nationality: 69X
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 190 lb
Record: 12-1

This was one of those fights where an old timer in Mendin was gonna show his 35 years, or a young buck in the 19 year old Corelli was gonna get humbled. At least that's what the pundits would say. Instead, Mendin showed his savvy throughout the fight, taking his shots where he could, where the younger Corelli certainly started hotter. Corelli would take the first round, but the second looked edged in favor of Mendin. And finally, the third was the slaughter. Corelli, to his credit, went the distance against an opponent sixteen years his senior, but gassed himself out by the end of the fight.

Result: Damian Mendin by Split Decision

Main Card:
Roman Asimakopoulos³ vs. Tony Elliot¹⁰⁷
Flyweight Bout

Roman Asimakopoulos:
Nationality: Quebec and Shingoryeo
Height: 5'6"
Weight: 140 lb
Record: 24-4

Tony Elliot:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 5'5"
Weight: 148 lb
Record: 9-3

Elliot's younger and a bit bigger than Roman, a boxer who clocks in just a hair above RCI's minimum weight threshold, but damn if that boy can't throw a punch. Asimakopoulos controlled the center of the ring throughout the contest after establishing control early by winning a quick pair of exchanges, but at the size of these guys it was going to take more than a few punches to get the knockout.

In that second round though, Elliot caved. The second Asimakopoulos got a real opening, he rained down punches on his shorter opponent until the official had no choice but to call it.

Result: Roman Asimakopoulos by TKO, 2nd Round, 1:09

Main Card:
Tabisha Anyango¹ vs. Melody Moore⁷
Bantamweight Bout

Tabisha Anyango:
Nationality: Banija
Height: 5'7"
Weight: 138 lb
Record: 12-2

Melody Marie-Walsh:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 5'5"
Weight: 125 lb
Record: 5-0

Most were surprised Anyango even took this fight. She was practically penciled in for a title shot, but something must've irked her - Melody Marie-Walsh was an up-and-comer, even if some have implied that the hype is largely just due to her looks, and she got absolutely dogwalked against Anyango. This was almost as unbalanced as the Ahn vs Rhine exhibition fight back in Renown 233, and we're sure the title contender could've ended it earlier if she'd wanted too.

Marie-Walsh didn't say much after the fight besides promising to improve after losing her unbeaten record, but Anyango made it clear that her next fight will be for the championship.

Result: Tabisha Anyango by TKO Round 1, 1:31

Main Card:
Jayce Riley vs. Olivier Thompson⁵
Middleweight Bout

Jayce Riley:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 204 lb
Record: 7-2 (1-0 Hybrid, 0-0 Renown)

Olivier Thompson:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 6'1"
Weight: 200 lb
Record: 17-6

Olivier, at age 33, was likely looking at one last push for a second title shot after he was knocked out in just 1:03 in his first try. Taking on an up-and-comer was a good way to prove he still had what it took to hang with the youth, and besides, he thought, Delaclavs can't be that tough, otherwise they'd have fought in Renown before tonight!

Well, unfortunately for Olivier, the young Riley got off to a hot start, proving to be much faster than the veteran despite a slightly heavier weigh-in. Thompson has only been knocked out once in his career though, and eventually the young buck made the smart decision to take him down. He'd notch three takedowns in an absolutely brutal first round, and took control of the second quickly before working his way into a leglock.

Most grapplers who aren't absolutely studs or true beginners know to tap the second someone starts screwing with your legs - it's just not worth it. But Thompson, desperate for one last shot, well, he didn't. And it cost him big time. Jayce disentangled himself from the limb (limbs now?) immedietely, but the damage was done - and the up-and-comer was one step closer to earning himself a title shot.

Result: Jayce Riley by Submission, round 2, 3:55

Co-Main Event:
Amos Mumbo, Banija² vs Julio Killian^C, Ranoria
Lightweight Championship

Mumbo:
Nationality: Banija
Height: 5'8"
Weight: 152 lb
Record: 14-2

Killian:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 6'
Weight: 156 lb
Record: 20-3

Mumbo finally got his crack at the king! Killian, who's won 9 of his last 10 fights including 4 straight title defenses, was overwhelmed from the opening bell when Mumbo caught him with a quick hook just twelve seconds into the fight. The announcers quickly went from wondering if Mumbo could go the distance to proclaiming that Killian had to just focus on surviving the first round - well, he almost did.

If anything, the ref seemed obligated to try and let him, but at some point, after Mumbo knocked the reigning champion down and began landing hammerfists galore, he had no choice but to call it. Mumbo became the second current Banijan champion in Renown, although the first was about to be forced to defend his throne...

Result: Amos Mumbo by TKO, Round 1, 4:39

Main Event:
1. Kaiser Belfort¹ vs. Kosan Chweba^C
Heavyweight Championship

Kaiser Belfort:
Nationality: Ranoria
Height: 6'2"
Weight: 245 lb
Record: 8-1

Kosan Chweba:
Nationality: Banija
Height: 6'4"
Weight: 245 lb
Record: 9-1

For Belfort, who's only taken one fight with Renown since his victory over in Hybrid Combat Championship, it was finally his chance at a the heavyweight world championship (it's trademarked, and our lawyers have advised us to tell you this is not a claim of our title being any more legitimate than that of Hybrid's). The guy's been all over the news lately, from getting his ass beat during IBC 35 to some speculating that he's sacrificing longevity in and out of the octagon by playing gridiron and fighting professionally. Or hell, getting married the night before this fight to a Delaclav ring girl by the name of Claudia, who he met less than a year ago at the aforementioned Hybrid event.

"She insisted!" Belfort protested during pre-fight interviews, "Wanted me to show her that she's as much a priority as my fighting!"

He'd be going against a monster in Kosan Chweba, though. Chweba won Renown's vaunted heavyweight title just over a year ago and he's defended it once since. Unfortunately, the heavyweight crown is one that's notoriously difficult to hold onto. Kaiser ate plenty of shots to the face from Chweba, blows that would've knocked out lesser men, in fact. He returned the striking with fervor, but clearly lost the first two rounds - Belfort's hard headed, but this was quickly turning into something that could end up as one of the most brutal beatdowns in the history of the sport.

It wasn't until Chweba made the mistake of throwing a low kick that Belfort caught an edge. He quickly threw the right and rocked his opponent just enough to go for the takedown. From there, he was a spider monkey. The two grappled for a bit, but when Chweba went to stand up, Belfort shot his legs up to lock in an arm bar and threw the reigning champ back down to the mat. Chweba reached in and clutched his hands together to defend.

A less experienced grappler would've kicked Chweba's elbow repeatedly. Maybe even a less vicious one. No, Kaiser slipped his elbow in between the grip and his legs and torqued, snapping Chweba's vaunted right in two places rather than one. Belfort was joined by his new wife in the cage as he pounded his chest, then donned the belt and his wedding ring within seconds.

Hate to break it to ya kid, but marriage is never that easy - relish the last 24 hours or so, they'll probably be the best of your life.

Result: Kaiser Belfort by Submission, Round 3 1:49

[Ranoria]

Note - I should note that I really probably only have 3-4 heavily RP’d seasons, this one included, left in me - so bear that in mind when it comes to your players or anyone you’d like to have enter the RFL. Thank you!

Preseason Top 10:
Ranoria City Falcons
Indianapolis Hogs
Berlin Snow Bears
Fiston Redwolves
Richardson Fenrirs
Highport Hawks
Fermete Marauders
Memphis Steamers
Ranoria City Silver
Rouyoute Colts

Key Draft Picks:
#1 overall - Kasper Ulvestad, Edge, Memphis Steamers
1st Round: Prokopios Vortigern Rooijakkers, SS, Fiston Redwolves
1st Round: Nikolas Isaksen, WR, Halifax Blizzard
1st Round: Alexander Ostby, HB, Herot Paladins

RFL 2033 Season: A New Dawn For Falcons, One Last Rodeo For The Farmboy

Redwolves WRs Isaak Rodriguez and Calvin Hale celebrate one of many touchdowns they caught from Drawkian star QB Lane Proudfoot

For better or worse, the titans of the Ranorian Football League are moving. John Garrett has made it clear that he plans to retire within two seasons after a disastrous World Bowl - his last. The Hogs have gone all-in for a title in 2033 as a result, banking on the health of their legendary signal caller. Meanwhile, Dennis Zervos has left the Ranoria City Falcons for his alma mater, the University of Loyola-Istria. I mean, what guy has the kind of issues to get the urge to move to that stinking city after residing in the crown jewel of Ranorian civilization is beyond us, but he'll be replaced by the (hopefully) capable Jack Halifax, longtime assistant for the Krauts and OC for the Falcons. With Gwenderyn and Mio on that offense though, we doubt he'll have to come up with anything to fancy.

Meanwhile, Halifax wanted to make waves as soon as he took the reigns - he orchestrated a trade with the embarrassment of a franchise Port Kruger Phalanx for uber-talented defensive end Gideon Kearse, who's racked up 20.5 sacks and an astounding 39 TFL in his first two seasons despite being routinely double or even triple teamed even as an edge rusher due to the stark lack of talent around him. He fills out a defense with Park Mi-Hyeon and Jere Rinaldi, arguably the top two linebackers in football, much less the best tandem on a single team, to make them just as formidable as the offense. The Fiston Redwolves committed outright robbery on draft night, snagging one of the best players from the NSCF ranks in Prokopios Vortigern Rooijakkers, a phenom for the Cold Hill Buffalo and reigning NSCF DPOY, to add to a team that was a point away from taking home the gold a season ago. The Hawks - who won it all after a 15-1 regular season - bring a lot of continuity, but expert are predicting a drop off. We'll just call them haters of course.

Without further ado - your 2033 RFL Regular Season!

PF PA PD Win %

Ranorian Conference

Ranorian Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Berlin Snow Bears                 16   14   2   500  293 +207    0.875
 2 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   4   444  299 +145    0.750
 3 Fermete Marauders                 16   10   6   415  292 +123    0.625
 4 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   10   6   471  396  +75    0.625
 5 Memphis Steamers                  16    9   7   371  324  +47    0.562
 6 Munich  Thrashers                 16    9   7   348  316  +32    0.562
 7 Apollotown Sabers                 16    9   7   293  272  +21    0.562
 8 Madison Gladiators                16    8   8   346  287  +59    0.500
 9 Highport Hawks                    16    8   8   423  394  +29    0.500
10 Mariana Tigers                    16    8   8   326  317   +9    0.500
11 Balafre Bootleggers               16    7   9   301  339  −38    0.438
12 Halifax Blizzard                  16    7   9   327  380  −53    0.438
13 Lafayette Crusaders               16    7   9   253  380 −127    0.438
14 Sierraville Famers                16    5  11   300  369  −69    0.312
15 Nashville Sabercats               16    5  11   369  468  −99    0.312
16 Victorsville Hurricane            16    4  12   271  449 −178    0.250
17 Calgary Stampede                  16    4  12   273  456 −183    0.250

National Conference

National Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   12   4   491  296 +195    0.750
 2 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts      16   12   4   338  280  +58    0.750
 3 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   11   5   391  293  +98    0.688
 4 Richardson Fenrirs                16   10   6   341  197 +144    0.625
 5 Brittanny Walruses                16   10   6   367  298  +69    0.625
 6 Rouyotte Colts                    16    9   7   341  215 +126    0.562
 7 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16    9   7   313  278  +35    0.562
 8 Dietrich Dynamos                  16    9   7   289  260  +29    0.562
 9 Ranoria City Silver               16    8   8   416  337  +79    0.500
10 Herot Paladins                    16    8   8   270  312  −42    0.500
11 Eglise Mountaineers               16    7   9   238  305  −67    0.438
12 Vancouver Yeti                    16    7   9   252  347  −95    0.438
13 Port Kruger Phalanx               16    6  10   274  313  −39    0.375
14 Lorcondan National Team           16    6  10   197  416 −219    0.375
15 Edmunton Eagles                   16    5  11   272  336  −64    0.312
16 New Quebec Quebecois              16    4  12   251  382 −131    0.250
17 Menagerie Pioneers                16    3  13   226  402 −176    0.188

RFL 2033 Postseason

Blue teams get a first round bye
Red teams have a home playoff game

Ranorian Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Berlin Snow Bears                 16   14   2   500  293 +207    0.875
 2 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   4   444  299 +145    0.750
 3 Fermete Marauders                 16   10   6   415  292 +123    0.625
 4 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   10   6   471  396  +75    0.625
 5 Memphis Steamers                  16    9   7   371  324  +47    0.562
 6 Munich  Thrashers                 16    9   7   348  316  +32    0.562

National Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   12   4   491  296 +195    0.750
 2 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts      16   12   4   338  280  +58    0.750
 3 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   11   5   391  293  +98    0.688
 4 Richardson Fenrirs                16   10   6   341  197 +144    0.625
 5 Brittanny Walruses                16   10   6   367  298  +69    0.625
 6 Rouyotte Colts                    16    9   7   341  215 +126    0.562

Some big surprises here! First off - the Pittsburgh Ironmen, despite a completely unmitigated collapse of their core over the past few seasons - nearly snuck their way into the playoffs off a career-best season from linebacker Kaiser Belfort, who tallied 3 interceptions and 12 pass deflections (his prior career highs had been 1 apiece), and six forced fumbles. The Highport Hawks, meanwhile, faltered hard. After jumping out to a 3-0 start, the reigning champions never seemed to be able to dig their way back after losing three straight, losing back to back games to the Madison Gladiators and Lafayette Crusaders in weeks 15 and 16 to reach 8 losses and effectively seal their fate.

Stepping into their lost spot, the Memphis Steamers had a turnaround not unlike that of the Apollotown Sabers when they drafted Abram Fairbanks #1 overall - but for the Steamers, it was Kasper Ulvestad, NSCF 27's MoP, who helped them turn it around. While not quite as stellar as Fairbanks's warpath of a rookie season, Ulvestad tallied 9.5 sacks and a nice 5 forced fumbles to act as the catalyst for his squad.

For the second time in three seasons, the Berlin Snow Bears have won the first seed - but they lost in the first round of the playoffs last time that happened. One of the most well-balanced teams in the RFL continued to attack opponents' weaknesses by utilizing their perhaps not as star-studded roster. They somehow led the league in points scored, with 500, and were one of only 2 teams with more than 30 per game. That, in large part, is in thanks to running back Gauge Lawson, who finished with a league-leading 1,833 yards, and tacked on a nice 15 TD to go along with it.

Oh, right, SMBG led an explosive offense with 444 points scored - who would have guessed. Her Falcons don't appear to have missed a beat after the departure of Dennis Zervos - but their defense took a step forward as well. After allowing more than 700 points during the last two regular seasons, their big-time offseason acquisitions appear to have stemmed the tide on that front. While as a pass heavy team, they still conceded points due to a high snap count and their defense being on the field a lot, they allowed the lowest point total since Sarai Gwenderyn was drafted with just 299, less than 20 per outing. Rinaldi in particular seemed to take the lead early in games, shutting down the inside run, while Gideon Kearse pinned his ears back once that explosive offense started to light up the scoreboard, posting an RFL record 20.5 sack season. The record, 20, had stood for 14 years, posted by his father Justin Kearse in 2019.

The Richardson Fenrirs continued their upward ascent, winning ten games yet again, with QB Tim Hunt leaning heavily on the budding superstar in Deshawn Fredericks, who led the league with 1,317 receiving yards. And of course John Garrett managed to stay healthy all season, and thank god for that. The legend went 10-6, overcoming a defense that was 6th worst in the league (5th worst last season). No other team with a defense as bad or worse than that of the Hawks won more than six games this season. Garrett (4,441 yards, 31 TD, 5 INT)had to play out of his mind to defy every statistical reality of this league just to make the playoffs - can he go much farther with a sieve behind him?

And the other first seed - none other than last year's runner ups. The Fiston Redwolves finished 12-4 with Proko landing some of the filthiest hits the league's seen in years and Lane "Casanova" Proudfoot slinging it with nothing less than reckless abandon to one of the best wideout duos in the league. For a third straight season he's posted career highs in yardage and touchdowns, leading the league in each category this time around with 4,501 and 35, respectively. After being kicked down on the doorstep of football immortality last season he's coming with a vengeance.

And finally, 3rd year QB Leonardo Torrent finally appears to have figured it out with ten wins, and a league-leading 7 4th quarter comebacks, as his Brittany Walruses were the cardiac kids of the RFL this season. He will, at long last, make his playoff debut.

So, how will they fair in the playoffs? Up next!

First Round:

Fermete vs Munich

Fermete Marauders 16–20 Munich Thrashers

The Thrashers haven't made the playoffs in a long time, but boy when they did, blunt force trauma returned to the big stage. The Thrashers ownership is iconic for forcing the coaches brazen enough to take the job to adopt a 6 OL system with a 95%+ run rate. Bulky tight ends, QBs who no one is sure should have a job, that kind of thing. Sheila Pantoja, who made the playoffs for the first time as a starting quarterback in the RFL with a solid 10-6 season herself, only got the ball five times and managed a scoring drive on four of those, with one touchdown and three field goals as the Thrashers fans and their audacious running game got some vindication for the first time in decades.

Indianapolis vs Memphis

Indianapolis Hogs 38–27 Memphis Steamers

The Steamers were a nice bounceback story this season, led by Kasper Ulvestad, and many thought that with Korra Byrn on the other side, their pass rush might get the aging John Garrett banged up enough to slow him down. No such luck - Farmboy lobotomized a defense that just couldn't handle a quick-rhythm pass attack and, when they did start to bite on short routes, grilled them with a deep ball that he's still good for a few times a game. That dominant showing earns him a date with none other than the loaded Ranoria City Falcons.

Yellowknife vs Rouyoutte

Yellowknife Wraiths 24–0 Rouyoutte Colts

Not sure what happened here - the Wraiths overperformed big time this season, especially after having lost the best player in their franchise's history, Zack Skinner, to retirement. Regardless, a masterclass of a defensive game plan was enough to stump Colts QB Jay Garrian, who threw 4 interceptions to hamstring his squad, with UCBP grad Albie Vergol and Alder King only able to do so much with such horrendous field position.

Richardson vs Brittany

Richardson Fenrirs 35–20 Brittany Walruses

It was the shootout we were promised between two exciting young quarterbacks, but as we've become accustomed to outside the mirage that this season may have been, Leonardo Torrent came up short. Not that it's entirely his fault - Tim Hunt and Deshawn Fredericks put on a historic performance to jump out to a 21-14 lead, and frankly Torrent was playing well just to keep up. Tim Hunt went a combined 10/15 for 175 yards and 3 touchdowns on his first three drives, with an inspired Fredericks reeling in 7 catches for 144 of those yards and all three scores, tearing off his helmet and spiking it after the third. It was a career performance for both players - Hunt finished with 378 yards and 4 scores, while Fredericks posted just one of the now three 200 yard receiving games in RFL history. As explosive as Fiston has been this season, the Fenrirs knocked them off in the final game of the regular season, 30-20, and look as hot as anyone going into the quarterfinals.

Quarterfinals:
Blue teams get a first round bye
Red teams have a home playoff game

Ranorian Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Berlin Snow Bears                 16   14   2   500  293 +207    0.875
 2 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   4   444  299 +145    0.750
4 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   10   6   471  396  +75    0.625
 6 Munich  Thrashers                 16    9   7   348  316  +32    0.562

National Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   12   4   491  296 +195    0.750
 2 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts      16   12   4   338  280  +58    0.750
 3 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   11   5   391  293  +98    0.688
 4 Richardson Fenrirs                16   10   6   341  197 +144    0.625

Berlin vs Munich

Berlin Snow Bears 19–10 Munich Thrashers

To Munich's credit, they still made it a game, but even for a team playing an outdated brand of football, this was a bad matchup. A- the Snow Bears have the RB with Gauge Lawson in the backfield, and therefore an arguably better running game. B- as we mentioned before, the Snow Bears are great at picking out and attacking another team's weakness, and have the players spread around to do it. The Thrashers still dominated time of possession, but their shoddy pass defense and a total inability to contain Gauge Lawson (who finished with 21 carries for 147 yards) doomed their potential Cinderella Story.

Ranoria City vs Indianapolis

Ranoria City Falcons 30–24 Indianapolis Hogs

One of the games to watch - two of the best three to five quarterbacks in the world playing in a stadium fit for a World Bowl Final - what more can a fan ask for? The nation as a whole was rooting for Garrett's Hogs of course, not so much because of his Ranorian birth as it was hoping the legendary signal caller could squeak out one more title run. But with Gideon Kearse tallying a pair of sacks, and Jere Rinaldi blitzing on a whopping 15% of snaps to get himself two more and a trio of quarterback hits, his offense was slowed, and considerably. Still Garrett was able to engineer a would-be game winning drive with 49 seconds on the clock in the fourth quarter, but a defense that had overperformed its #28 ranking in the league for 59 minutes and 17 seconds finally showed its true colors. Despite having no timeouts, Sarai Gwenderyn aggressively targeted long time WR1 Alessandra Mio, with balls placed just outside the boundary where only her 6'3" target could bring them in, and trusted that target to get her feet in bounds to stop the clock.

All told, they were down 23-24 with 29 seconds left from seven yards out. It had taken just three plays, twenty two seconds, to drive 68 yards. And that, kids, is where head coach Jack Halifax got creative. You see, John Garrett and co. still had all three of their stoppages available. So rather than a quick strike to the end zone, he had Gwenderyn hand the ball off to Tony Gilling, an audacious move that no one suspected. The defense, after some hesitation, bit, and abandoned their coverage assignments just as Gilling tossed the ball back to Gwenderyn. Who the hell calls a flea flicker from the five? She rolled out, and a defense that'd been caught with questionable judgement all season sold out to pursue her, leaving Alessandra Mio 1-on-1 in the corner of the end zone. Easy completion, obviously.

That play had taken fourteen seconds off the clock - and effectively doomed the Hogs' championship hopes. Once again, the best quarterback in Chromatik history had gotten the better of her older Ranorian counterpart.

Fiston vs Richardson

Fiston Redwolves 22–3 Richardson Fenrirs

Tough outing for Tim Hunt and co. He and Fredericks, after a downright historic outing a week prior and with all the momentum in the world, ran into a stonewall of a Redwolves defense as Proko answered the call with two interceptions. It was a huge plus for a defense as spotty as this one to finally step up when the offense had a rare day of looking human, but they cruised to a victory in this one.

North Ashialand vs Yellowknife

North Ashialand Dreadnaughts 12–25 Yellowknife Wraiths

I'm not gonna waste anyone's cognition here, no one has any clue how the Dreadnaughts eaked their way out to a 12-4 record - even with an MVP caliber season for Elliot Roach, it took a lot of luck for them to get this far, and a penetrating front 7 of the Wraiths showed that.

Conference Championships:

Ranorian Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Berlin Snow Bears                 16   14   2   500  293 +207    0.875
 2 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   4   444  299 +145    0.750

National Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   12   4   491  296 +195    0.750
 3 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   11   5   391  293  +98    0.688

Berlin vs Ranoria City

Berlin Snow Bears 37–9 Ranoria City Falcons

Talk about the stunner of the playoffs. First seed or not, seeing one of the best teams in the RFL get beaten down like this was worth making sure no one had slipped something in your drink. Gauge Lawson made himself one of the few runners all season to be able to at least hold his own against Jere Rinaldi and Park Mi-Hyeon (4.1 yp/c), allowing this team to resort to its tried-and true play action attack when it needed to, exposing an overall soft secondary. Whether it was Dhruv Valentine or Rachel Klein, QB Mason Warford was eating them alive, going 5/5 for 131 yards and two scores on play action boot legs that saw him rolling out away from Kearse.

But of course that's not the big story here - the stunner in this one was Sarai Gwenderyn and Alessandra Mio being held to 9 points. You could probably put middle schoolers at the rest of the offensive positions and still do better than that with these two most days. It started up front - monstrous IDL duo Pharoah Akins and Konstantin Vollmacht (Krauts captain and FSU grad) tore apart a Falcons offensive line that had lost some strength in order to garner more star power at other spots this offseason, generating pressure on almost ever snap and absolutely stifling the inside run game. They combined for 2.5 sacks and 6 run stuffs (tackles made at or behind the LOS on run plays). Vollmacht also knocked down two passes on the day, making it difficult to try and counter quick pressure with quick passes.

With their contributions on the interior, veteran Keeyan Brandt, who'd never been much of a star, had the game of his life, bringing Gwenderyn down twice coming off the edge when she was flushed out of the pocket. All that's great, but the real back breaker came at the start of the fourth quarter.

Down 27-9, The Falcons were clinging on by a thread and had to be aggressive - and South Newlandian star Carolyn Bray did what few others have managed at any level - she baited Sarai Gwenderyn. Alessandra Mio's double move is nearly fabled at this point, but Bray saw it coming the whole way, and looked to bite just long enough for the throw to come. With Mio unable to bring her down following an athletic snag, she cut her way across the field and around the offensive line, crossing the plane into the end zone with the Berlin faithful roaring their applause behind her.

Overall, it was a masterful performance from a well-coached squad to overcome the most star-studded group in the league, and to earn Berlin's first ever championship berth.

Fiston vs Yellowknife

Fiston Redwolves 29–16 Yellowknife Wraiths

The Wraiths had fought hard to get this far, but without the fabled Skinner coming off the edge, they simply couldn't generate enough pressure to stop an offense that, while impressive, hasn't quite dominated the way they did in the regular season. It's dangerous to gamble against the Redwolves, who behind Lane Proudfoot are en route to their second straight championship game, but they seem to be cooling off just as the Snow Bears have turned in likely the best defensive performance of the season.

Regular Season Awards:

OROY: WR Nikolas Isaksen, Halifax Blizzard
It was a long season for the Blizzard, who went 7-9 overall with three starting quarterbacks, eventually floundering to a 1-3 finish, but Isaksen was easily the best player on the squad. The jump-ball specialist and long time WR1 for the Cold Hill Buffalo racked up 933 yards on 81 catches, and tallied 7 touchdowns despite catching balls from a total of 5 passers. If the Blizzard are going to turn this thing around, it will be with an offense centered around his unique skillset, as the Vanorian earned captaincy immediately upon entering the building and maintained his positive demeanor through all the hardships of a lost season.

DROY: SS Prokopios Vortigern Rooijakkers, Fiston Redwolves
This was a close vote, with rookie and #1 overall pick Kasper Ulvestad taking in 22 of 50 votes himself, but it was the highlight reel that won Proko this one. As a member of Drawkland's grid core, he also had some prior pro experience, but this kid didn't miss a step once he entered the RFL. He was 2nd on his team in tackles with 91, snagged 3 interceptions, and ended up on RSSN's highlights reels more times with monster hits than we could possibly count. He's given some pop to a Redwolves defense that desperately needed an influx of talent.

OPOY: WR Deshawn Fredericks, Richardson Fenrirs
Tim Hunt, of course, is the heart of the renaissance of this football team, but Fredericks is its fire. Counting playoffs, Fredericks ran through the league for more than 1,600 receiving yards, announcing his arrival as a true top-tier WR1 in this league now in his third season. The season may have ended on a low note, but this duo isn't going anywhere any time soon.

DPOY: DE Gideon Kearse, Ranoria City Falcons
With Park Mi-Hyeon having won last season, that gives the Falcons two former DPOYs now on their squad. It was a no brainer to select Kearse, who set the RFL record in sacks, doubling his career total to this point as he finally broke out with a legitimate defense around him. The superstar was a World Bowl starter as a true rookie for a reason, and he's finally proved that he belongs in the conversation with the man drafted ahead of him, Abram Fairbanks, as one of the best pass rushers in the world.

Footballer of the Year: RB Franco Buchannon, Balafre Bootleggers

The madman of the Bootleggers, it turns out, has a soft side. Buchannon heads a charity focusing on the treatment of children suffering from an assortment of rare diseases, through both innovative treatment and research into possible long-term solutions, inspired by his sister, Lizzy Buchannon, who has been and out of a hospital for most her life.

Ranorian Football League MVP, 2031

HB Elliot Roach - North Ashialand Dreadnaughts

That's two straight seasons now where a Kohnheadian running back has won the MVP, and honestly, this one might have been more impressive than Whitworth's. While the Hawks superstar set the RFL rushing record and tallied over 5.5 yards per pop, he was the leader of a 15-1, frontrunner team. Elliot Roach just single handedly dragged a team projected to be among the worst in football to a 12-4 record. On the back of 417 carries, Roach finished the year with 1,801 rushing yards, good for second in the league, and a whopping 22 rushing touchdowns. Even with that, this team had a lot of things go their way to get to 12-4, and its doubtful they'll be able to repeat that anomaly, as they've been in the gutter since losing all-time great QB Bo Callahan.

Ranorian Football League Championship, 2033

Championship
Berlin Snow Bears 38–16 Fiston Redwolves
Championship MVP: TE Dhruv Valentine, Berlin Snow Bears

If anyone can explain to me what just happened, I'd be happy to lend an ear.

Kidding, of course - the Fiston Redwolves were hot all season. 27-5 over the last two regular seasons, good for two straight first seed berths. Lane Proudfoot put up downright prolific passing numbers, and Proko on the back end made everyone fear throwing passes over the middle in a league that doesn't penalize, but rewards those big hits.

But it seemed like from week 17 on, they started to cool off. Their offense didn't quite have the same zing it did during this regular season, or during last year's playoff run, with Proudfoot failing to eclipse 285 passing yards. However, they still reached the championship for the second straight year, and against a Snow Bears team that was perhaps lacking in big names. They failed to account, though, for several of those players still being among the best at their positions in the world, including DT Konstantin Vollmacht and South Newlandian TE Dhruv Valentine, even if they didn't draw many headlines.

Much as they did against the Falcons, the Snow Bear front four wreaked havoc on Lane Proudfoot. Where the Hero of Cavsar typically is able to eat defenses that can get pressure alive by getting the ball out fast, pressure up the middle meant that he couldn't even step up into his throws, and with Carolyn Bray on one side of the defense, well, his first read wasn't always open.

Ever so slowly, this one got away from them, until four straight incompletions would end the last offensive drive for the Redwolves, and the loaded unit of the Berlin Snow Bears finally broke through, after so long being in contention, for their first ever championship.

[Ranoria]

Note - I should note that I really probably only have 2-3 heavily RP’d seasons, this one included, left in me - so bear that in mind when it comes to your players or anyone you’d like to have enter the RFL. Thank you!

Also. HUGE thanks to Quebec and Shingoryeo on this one - due to some computer issues I was unable to score the semifinals or championship, and my friend stepped in to handle that for me. Thanks!


Preseason Top 10:
Indianapolis Hogs
Ranoria City Falcons
Berlin Snow Bears
Richardson Fenrirs
Fiston Redwolves
Highport Hawks
Fermete Marauders
Memphis Steamers
Ranoria City Silver
Rouyoute Colts

Key Draft Picks:
1st round - DE Andrew Yarbrough, Ranoria State Uni -> Indianapolis Hogs
2nd round - WR Tyron Hall, Upper Westside Uni -> Richardson Fenrirs
4th round - CB Troy Quinn, Upper Westside Uni -> Richardson Fenrirs

In another big move this offseason, The Indianapolis Hogs used the money freed up without having dead money paying for Johnny Farmer on the books to snag veteran defensive end Margarito Harrison. Along with an exciting speedy, long prospect in Yarbrough, the hope is that the two can give a buff to a defense that John Garrett needs to help him make one last push for a championship.

RFL 2034 Season: Into the Sunset

QB John "Farmboy" Garrett has been fighting retirement rumors for years - he's left the possibility open that he'll participate in the upcoming World Bowl, but this will be his final domestic season. Can he win a third RFL Championship? Meanwhile, Tim Hunt and the Richardson Fenrirs are making noise in training camp, with rookie wideout Tyron Hall flashing at practice, the team has an explosive complement to defending OPOY Deshawn Fredericks.

In the other conference, the Fiston Redwolves look to make another run, coming off two straight title appearances as the first seed in the playoffs to boot. With Lane Proudfoot still under center and the rest of the conference failing to make any convincing moves, they're the heavy favorite there a third straight year. But really - all eyes are on the Ranoria City Falcons.

Sarai Gwenderyn is at the very least a top two quarterback in this league, and with John Garrett starting to hit the wall, there's not much of a debate as to her being alone at the top of the mountain. In their second season with head coach Jack Halifax, can they make the most of a roster chock-full of top-flight talent?

Ranorian Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Ranoria City Falcons              16   14   2   457  291 +166    0.875
 2 Madison Gladiators                16   12   4   319  181 +138    0.750
 3 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   12   4   371  237 +134    0.750
 4 Memphis Steamers                  16   10   6   390  349  +41    0.625
 5 Highport Hawks                    16    9   7   437  385  +52    0.562
 6 Fermete Marauders                 16    9   7   328  307  +21    0.562
 7 Nashville Sabercats               16    8   8   354  333  +21    0.500
 8 Mariana Tigers                    16    8   8   267  255  +12    0.500
 9 Berlin Snow Bears                 16    7   9   388  357  +31    0.438
10 Apollotown Sabers                 16    7   9   269  267   +2    0.438
11 Victorsville Hurricane            16    7   9   253  336  −83    0.438
12 Balafre Bootleggers               16    7   9   300  404 −104    0.438
13 Calgary Stampede                  16    6  10   280  328  −48    0.375
14 Munich  Thrashers                 16    6  10   235  302  −67    0.375
15 Halifax Blizzard                  16    6  10   313  393  −80    0.375
16 Sierraville Famers                16    5  11   235  357 −122    0.312
17 Lafayette Crusaders               16    3  13   230  344 −114    0.188

National Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Ranoria City Silver               16   12   4   440  266 +174    0.750
 2 Richardson Fenrirs                16   11   5   339  214 +125    0.688
 3 Rouyotte Colts                    16   10   6   376  259 +117    0.625
 4 Brittanny Walruses                16   10   6   322  222 +100    0.625
 5 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   10   6   401  328  +73    0.625
 6 Eglise Mountaineers               16   10   6   253  254   −1    0.625
 7 Vancouver Yeti                    16    9   7   294  293   +1    0.562
 8 Menagerie Pioneers                16    9   7   295  301   −6    0.562
 9 Yellowknife Wraiths               16    8   8   331  283  +48    0.500
10 Herot Paladins                    16    8   8   314  325  −11    0.500
11 Dietrich Dynamos                  16    8   8   293  312  −19    0.500
12 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts      16    8   8   255  301  −46    0.500
13 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16    6  10   281  282   −1    0.375
14 Edmunton Eagles                   16    6  10   205  344 −139    0.375
15 Port Kruger Phalanx               16    5  11   206  258  −52    0.312
16 New Quebec Quebecois              16    3  13   279  393 −114    0.188
17 Lorcondan National Team           16    3  13   189  438 −249    0.188

The madness of gridiron football continues - the reigning champion Snow Bears collapsed - when Gauge Lawson and Konstantin Vollmacht, both star players, went down for the season in the first month, the media shifted attention to QB Mason Warford, who was expected to step up. He's a veteran with four consecutive 3,300+ yard seasons and two star targets in Rachel Klein and Dhruv Valentine. Instead, Warford was the catalyst of a championship caliber team's downfall, tossing an RFL-leading 26 interceptions against 21 touchdowns in 14 starts - the team fielded Kailey Toney for two games, where she tossed 6 interceptions in seven quarters against the Sierraville Farmers and Ranoria City Falcons.

The Ranoria City faithful have got to be happy - with the Silver turning in a 12-4 season despite the loss of Thorn Davis two years ago and Sarai Gwenderyn leading the league's best offense yet again en route to a 14-2 campaign, the teams each secured the first seed in the playoffs, with the Falcons going 14-2 in HC Jack Halifax’s second season. It helps when Sarai Gwenderyn throws for a career high and RFL-leading 4400+ yards and 41 touchdowns - and it helps her to have the most prolific wideout in RFL history on the outside. Alessandra Mio racked up 1,532 yards on a career-high 105 receptions and vaulted herself from #4 to #1 all time for all time receiving yards leaders. She passed up TE Johnny Farmer(11,902) and Earl Beets (13,001) and dethroned Kieran Kweo-Atksion (13,024) as she now comes in at 13,820 career receiving yards. She also tied Johnny Farmer’s mark for lost career receiving touchdowns at 122.

Meanwhile, John Garrett turned in a strong campaign behind an offense that relied on quick passes and strong running to go 12-4, with Sheila Pantoja's Memphis Steamers right behind him at 10-6...somehow.

The Richardson Fenrirs, meanwhile, took another step forward, - Tim Hunt registered his first career 4,000 yard campaign as the team scored 40 more points overall than last season - Deshawn Fredericks didn't quite post the same lofty numbers as he did a season ago, but when you have more weapons around you, that tends to happen. It was also the team's best record with Hunt under center at 11-5, and earned a first round bye.

Meanwhile, the Highport Hawks clawed their way back into the playoffs - barely - at 9-7. After a dominant run to start the tenure of their Kohnheadian stars they're just 17-15 in the past two regular seasons.

And another surprise, though perhaps not as alarming, was the Redwolves taking a step back. After a nice 27-5 stretch over two seasons, they won "only" ten games as Lane Proudfoot's progression hit a cog in the road - it's no surprise, really, as he's been so incredibly explosive over the past couple seasons that regression towards the mean was expected. Proudfoot dealt with a wrist injury over the first quarter of the season despite not missing a game, and WR1 Isaak Rodriguez missed half the season, contributing to the perhaps disappointing regular season. They finished with the same record as QB Leonardo Torrent's Brittany Walruses, who finished with their second consecutive playoff season.

The sixth seed in the National conference was none other than the Fermete Marauders, led by CB Victoria Mio, who turned in an incredible season from the cornerback position, not allowing a single touchdown and just 23 catches on the year against 6 interceptions. In fact, over the final three weeks of the season, she was targeted just thrice. With Sheila Pantoja at the helm, the team turned in a respectable 20+ points per game on offense as well.

RFL 2034 Postseason

Blue teams get a first round bye
Red teams have a home playoff game

Ranorian Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Ranoria City Falcons              16   14   2   457  291 +166    0.875
 2 Madison Gladiators                16   12   4   319  181 +138    0.750
 3 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   12   4   371  237 +134    0.750
 4 Memphis Steamers                  16   10   6   390  349  +41    0.625
 5 Highport Hawks                    16    9   7   437  385  +52    0.562
 6 Fermete Marauders                 16    9   7   328  307  +21    0.562

National Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Ranoria City Silver               16   12   4   440  266 +174    0.750
 2 Richardson Fenrirs                16   11   5   339  214 +125    0.688
 3 Rouyotte Colts                    16   10   6   376  259 +117    0.625
 4 Brittanny Walruses                16   10   6   322  222 +100    0.625
 5 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   10   6   401  328  +73    0.625
 6 Eglise Mountaineers               16   10   6   253  254   −1    0.625

First Round:

Indianapolis vs Fermete

Indianapolis Hogs 59–29 Fermete Marauders

Tough draw for Sheila Pantoja and Victoria Mio - taking on a 12-4 team in the first round doesn't happen to often, and one that's playing inspired football to win a championship for an aging legend even less so. Defensively, the gameplan worked as it was supposed to on paper - shut down WR1 Jeremiah Fletcher with Victoria Mio and roll coverage away from her to make passing windows tighter everywhere else when Garrett went to lesser targets. Unfortunately, Duke Beckett picked today to have the game of his life. The Hogs running back plowed away for 137 yards on 23 carries and another 44 yards on 7 catches, with three total touchdowns. Pantoja put on a decent performance with a pair of touchdowns, but a strip sack in the red zone led to a quick 21-3 deficit in the first quarter and ultimately, she just couldn't do enough to keep up with an incredibly stacked football team.

Memphis vs Highport

Memphis Steamers 26–40 Highport Hawks

Hell of a return to the playoffs for Byron Joseph and crew - the Steamers got run off the field as Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth combined for four rushing touchdowns while Robert Lawrence notched 2.5 sacks as he continues to be a dominant playoff performer.

Rouyoute vs Eglise

Rouyoutte Colts 6–14 Eglise Mountaineers

How the hell Eglise held Rouyoute to just 6 points despite losing Jere Rinaldi two seasons ago eludes us. Chromatik TE Calista Weathers was the star here, taking in two red zone touchdowns to lead her squad to victory. Albatross Vergol of Rouyoute notched a sack and 3 TFL in a losing effort.

Brittany vs Fiston

Brittany Walruses 22–51 Fiston Redwolves

Clearly, Lane Proudfoot doesn't like playing playoff games away from home. Or hearing people talk about his regression after an 18 interception season. The Cavsar alumn racked up a career-high 431 passing yards and four touchdown passes in an absolute route while Leonardo Torrent moved to 0-2 in his postseason career.

Quarterfinals:
Blue teams get a first round bye
Red teams have a home playoff game

Ranorian Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Ranoria City Falcons              16   14   2   457  291 +166    0.875
 2 Madison Gladiators                16   12   4   319  181 +138    0.750
 3 Indianapolis Hogs                 16   12   4   371  237 +134    0.7505
 5 Highport Hawks                    16    9   7   437  385  +52    0.562

National Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Ranoria City Silver               16   12   4   440  266 +174    0.750
 2 Richardson Fenrirs                16   11   5   339  214 +125    0.688
5 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   10   6   401  328  +73    0.625
 6 Eglise Mountaineers               16   10   6   253  254   −1    0.625

Ranoria City vs Highport

Ranoria City Falcons 47–13 Highport Hawks

"This is the epitome of what this team is supposed to be," said head coach Jack Halifax after a brutal route of the Hawks. Gideon Kearse sacked Byron Joseph twice, but it was the linebacking corps that led the way. Park Mi-Hyeon racked up 7 tackles and an interception, while Jere Rinaldi recorded three tackles for a loss, meeting bruising RB Herman Whitworth in the consistently and helping to hold the former MVP to just 1.9 yards per carry and forcing a fumble out of him once when he put his helmet straight through the ball.

Oh, right, Gwenderyn? She connected with Alessandra Mio for 173 yards and two touchdowns on a whopping 13 receptions. The former (and frontrunner for) MVP was lethal, and this team is going into the conference championship in peak form as Sarai pushes for a long-awaited second title.

Madison vs Indianapolos

Madison Gladiators 19–41 Indianapolis Hogs

The Madison Gladiators are one of those teams that consistently competitive through a strong running game and tough defense, and a nice 12-4 season forced the Hogs to play a first round playoff game. Clearly they weren't to happy about that. John Garrett has torn apart the playoffs those far, with 100 points scored in the team's two outings. They're en route to a conference championship, and potentially the last showdown between John Garrett and Sarai Gwenderyn.

Ranoria City vs Eglise

Ranoria City Silver 47–33 Eglise Mountaineers

Yep, this is what you get when you don't keep Jere Rinaldi - an utter lack of defense. The Silver are a far cry from their former glory, but an overall soft conference has helped see the potential now for two Ranoria City teams to meet in the Super Dome for the RFL championship.

Richardson vs Fiston

Richardson Fenrirs 16–13 Fiston Redwolves

Finally! Tim Hunt has led the Richardson Fenrirs back to annual reverence, but even with his talent never won a playoff game. His first came against a team that was widely considered the favorite to earn this conference's championship bid. Candace Ferrett and Robert James combined for 3 sacks on big Lane Proudfoot, with Ferrett in particular breaking through the line constantly to pressure Fiston's franchise quarterback and force him out of the pocket. It was a rare impressive showing from the Fiston defense, led by Proko, who recorded an interception and two pass breakups to take away the deep pass that Tim Hunt's been so adept at this season, but it just didn't quite come at the right time.

Conference Championships:

Ranorian Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
[color=#0000FF] 1 Berlin Snow Bears                 16   14   2   500  293 +207    0.875
 2 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   4   444  299 +145    0.750

National Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   12   4   491  296 +195    0.750
 3 Yellowknife Wraiths               16   11   5   391  293  +98    0.688

Ranoria City vs Indianapolis

Ranoria City Falcons 29–13 Indianapolis Hogs

In what was at least the final duel between two of the best to ever play in the RFL, both teams came in with incredible momentum, on a collision course that was hyped up to be everything a die hard fan could ask for. Gwenderyn and co hellbent on finally winning a second championship of the modern era for their Falcons, and Farmboy’s Hogs selling out to win one last ring for arguably the best Ranorian quarterback to ever play.

Against all expectations based on how these two quarterbacks had played, this one started out as a defensive slugfest - Margarito Harrison and Andrew Yarbrough consistently beat the Falcons offensive line and played disciplined contain to keep Gwenderyn in the pocket, while Jere Rinaldi proved more than a match for smaller Duke Beckett and Gideon Kearse strip sacked John Garrett on the game’s opening drive to set up a QB power that went for 17 yards and a score to take the lead early.

But the best performance today was Park Mi-Hyeon. John Garrett, while physically talented and deadly accurate, has always gone to his brain as his calling card. There’s no defense Farmboy can’t figure out, and no tendency he can’t exploit. Park Mi-Hyeon was tasked with matching him audible-for-audible, adjustment-for-adjustment, and did a masterful job putting her teammates in position to frustrate Garrett. It led to a nice 10-3 lead at halftime as Garrett turned the ball over three times, once on the early fumble and twice by way of interception - the last one came to Jere Rinaldi of all people after a tipped pass. The monstrous linebacker hardly seemed to realize the ball was in his hands until Park pushed him in the back and ushered him down the field to get a late field goal.

The second half was a bit more productive for Garrett - after the Falcons offense punted four plays in, Garrett dialed up Jeremiah Fletcher for a 73 yard touchdown, his longest connection of the season, on the second play of the drive to get right back in this game. Cameras panned to his wife and three children cheering in the booth, with the quarterback soaking in the moment as the stadium jeered. The Hogs capitalized off that momentum, forcing another punt - this one coming off an incomplete pass caused by a massive hit from Margarito Harrison on Gwenderyn- and taking a 13-10 lead.

Unfortunately for Farmboy, that was the last touchdown of his career. There aren’t many quarterbacks who shrug off big hits. There are fewer who seem to play better afterwards, but Gwenderyn appears to be one of them. The Felswyr State legend led her team to four straight scoring drives - two field goals and two touchdowns, though big Margarito Harrison blocked a PAT.

Everyone of those touchdowns triggered a roar from an adoring Ranoria City crowd, and with just under four minutes left in the contest, it was already clear that this game was over. But down 16, John Garrett had to intentions of taking this one lying down - unfortunately, rhe superstar has always had one weakness, and it reared its ugly head one last time.

Park called a blitz, and Gideon Kearse beat his man before John Garrett even got out of his drop. He stepped up into the pocket, and tried to shrug the massive defensive lineman off of his back, only Jere Ronaldi’s shoulder pads to hit him like a bartering ram. Between two massive players on top of him and landing awkwardly, Garrett struggled to his feet, holding his throwing arm against his side.

After the game, he’d be diagnosed with a broken collarbone - but even Garrett admitted it didn’t affect the outcome of the game, and refused to go with the trainers prior to the end of the game, watching as the clock struck double zeroes.

RSSN reporters - who’ve caught some flack for a lack of respect - caught him as he was entering the tunnel. “Sucks to end that way, but don’t let it take away from what those guys are doing,” Farmboy nodded over to the Falcons sideline with his wife watching from a half step away. “I hate to admit it, but this didn’t affect the outcome of this game. Just can’t seem to beat that Gwenderyn,” he chuckled.

When asked about the upcoming World Bowl, he made the mistake of shrugging, which led him to gasp at which point his wife moved to support him, “Not sure, I’ll have to talk with this one about that. I’ve broken this thing before though, I should be healed up in time.”

Without a doubt, these Falcons have earned a second title berth - will they be able to capitalize?

Ranoria City vs Richardson

Ranoria City Silver 21–23 Richardson Fenrirs

It was a dramatic affair - but Tim Hunt and Deshawn Fredericks have officially brought one of the RFL’s greatest historical franchises back from a decade of lost seasons to the crown jewel of deomezfic gridiron football (shush, GFLB AND QFL fans, we love you too but let us have our moment.)

The Ranoria City Silver came out of nowhere this season, an incredible feet of coaching to get a team that had lost its two best players in Thorn Davis and Kieran Kweo-Atkinson two seasons ago to retirement this far. And they gave the Fenrirs all they wanted, scoring on a Darnell Sleight pick six - crazy play from the very much aging veteran.

Things didn’t get much better, with the Fenrirs only able to put up field goals as they slowly slipped to a 21-9 deficit. And with Ranoria City driving into the red zone midway through the fourth, things looked dire. It’d be Paul Mattieu, veteran Chromatik corner, came up in the clutch. Mattieu executed a perfect peanut punch on RB Jojo Huber to force a fumble that Candace Ferrett would be in perfect position to recover. She managed to get to the 41 yard line before she was taken down, and from there, we all knew what would happen - Tim Hunt and Deshawn Fredericks locked eyes briefly before they broke the huddle, and the rest is history.

Hunt connected on 5 of his 6 passes on the ensuing drive, 3 of them going to Fredericks including what’d end up as a 19 yard touchdown over none other than Darnell Sleight. And when Jojo Huber got stopped on 3rd down with just two minutes left, they showed, once again, that Fredericks was unstoppable in the spotlight - on a simple go route to the outside, Hunt’s pass was slightly behind, but Fredericks juked out a chasing defender and high-stepped into the end zone.

The Fenrirs are going to the championship - but things sure as hell won’t get easier there.

Regular Season Awards:

OROY: WR Tyron Hall, Richardson Fenrirs
An OPOY WR last season, an OROY WR this season - Tim Hunt’s sure not hurting for weapons anymore. Whether Hall was dominant enough to deserve the reward or if he was just a benefit of Tim Hunt turning in a career year is up for debate, but when you put up 844 yards as a rookie, and eight touchdowns to boot, you get awards.

DROY: DE Andrew Yarbrough, Indianapolis Hogs
A key cog in a conference runner up team, Yarbrough is going to be a centerpiece of a team that’s losing the best player it’s ever had to retirement in John Garrett. Along with Margarito Harrison, can the Hogs transition to a defensive powerhouse? Doubtful, but Yarbrough turned in 8.5 sacks and 9 TFL as an excellent speed demon counterpart to veteran Margarito Harrison.

: HB Herman Whitworth, Highport Hawks
Despite a 9-7 campaign, Whitworth was a key cog in the second best offense in the league this season, leading the league in carries, rushing yards, and rushing touchdowns. The former MVP and Kohnhead City grad shows no signs of slowing down, although it’s clear there’s no list between he and Jere Rinaldi with the way they were hammering away at one another in the second round of the playoffs.

DPOY: CB Victoria Mio, Fermete Marauders
Sheila Pantoja had a strong season, but if she’s the rock of the Marauders, there’s no doubt as to who the heart of this team is. Mio turned in one of the most dominant cornerback seasons in RFL history, especially considering the increase in pass-heavy teams in the last decade or so, and with her deal expiring this offseason, she can practically write her own contract.

Footballer of the Year: CB Carolyn Bray, Berlin Snow Bears

It was a tough season for the South Newlandian standout, but off the field she’s never wavered. Bray made extensive efforts over the last two seasons to improve the quality of zoos in Ranoria, in particular ensuring that they increased the size of elephant habitats and provided the elephants with numerous toys and activities to stimulate their curious brains, many of these ventures being self-funded.

Ranorian Football League MVP, 2034

QB Sarai Gwenderyn, Ranoria City Falcons

Wasn’t much of a completion this season. Garrett didn’t have the numbers to compete and one of the running backs had a strong enough season to contend with Sarai Gwenderyn’s first season with 40 passing touchdowns. (41, total, for those curious.) The Falcons offense was the best in the league by far - the only team that came close in terms of scoring was Highport, but an uncharacteristic number of turnovers make the difference between the two apparent.

The Chromatik native was on a warpath despite playing under her second head coach in a still relatively young career. Can she close out the season to earn a second ring?

Ranorian Football League Championship, 2034

Championship
Ranoria City Falcons 27–15 Richardson Fenrirs
Championship MVP: QB Sarai Gwenderyn

That one was a long time coming.

There’s no doubt that Tim Hunt and Deshawn Fredericks have ushered in a new era for the Fenrirs, winning 31 of 48 regular season games in the past three seasons and now earning a championship berth, but the Falcons are consistently front runners for the championship for a reason. It was another dominant performance from this defense, not allowing the Fenrirs to score a single touchdown as the team buckled down hard in the red zone - a combination of Kearse sacks and Rinaldi TFLs kept Hunt and his crew from being able to reasonably attempt fourth down conversions, and Gwenderyn and Mio connected for a pair of touchdowns early to establish a lead that would prove insurmountable.

It’s the second championship for Gwenderyn, and the first for Gideon Kearse, Jere Rinaldi and Park Mi-Hyeon. Alessandra Mio, she’s at four now counting her rings from the Dietrich Dynamos. It was a long time coming, but I’ve got a feeling we won’t have to wait as long for SMBG to win #3 - this team is full of players who can lay a claim as the best in the world at their position, and they’re not going anywhere.

[Ranoria]

OOC: Notes
1- The Ranorian football league doesn’t employ fifth year options or franchise tags. This gives players significantly more leverage in negotiations and leads to more player movement.
2- all those rules favoring the passing game - those aren’t a thing here. Hard hitting safeties and linebackers are at a premium, making the middle of the field a dangerous place to throw, roughing the passer calls are few and far between, and defensive backs are often given a bit of leeway with their physicality prior to the catch.
3- Because of this, expect significantly lower average passing numbers than in the NFL. In 70+ seasons, the RFL has had five 4,700+ yard seasons, two 5,000+ yard passing seasons, and seven 40+ passing TD seasons. By comparison, there have been 15 5,000+ yard seasons in the NFL and 19 NFL seasons of 40+ passing touchdowns. Please keep this in mind if your players - particularly QBs, WRs, or TEs, aren’t having the production you’d expect.
4- also as a result of this, running backs take on a greater role and the average rushing numbers are higher. 2,000+ yards is still a rarity.
5- this is the last heavily RP'd season I'm committing to, but the league will continue to run as long as I have the currently in place foreign players at the very least

6- Few changes this season! First - we've introduced divisions! I say we because I wouldn't have been able to do this without South Newlandia, huge thanks to him there. Two teams were taken out of the league - the Lorcondan National Team and Calgary Stampede - to accommodate this. No foreign (or even notable Ranorian) players were on those teams.

With that said, we'll be moving to a more familiar format for everyone - four divisions per conference, with each division champion and two wild cards from each conference making the playoffs.

Full Offseason Recap

Ranorian Conference

Ranorian Heartland
Mariana Tigers
Berlin Snow Bears
Balafre Bootleggers
Ranoria City Falcons

Ranorian Central
Memphis Steamers
Indianapolis Hogs
Nashville Sabercats
Apollotown Sabers

Ranorian Coastal
Highport Hawks
Sierraville Famers
Munich Thrashers
Victorsville Hurricane

Ranorian North
Lafayette Crusaders
Halifax Blizzard
Madison Gladiators
Vancouver Yeti

National Conference

National North
Rouyotte Aurora Knights
Eglise Mountaineers
Herot Paladins
Fermete Marauders

National Central
Ranoria City Silver
Pittsburgh Ironmen
Dietrich Dynamos
Richardson Fenrirs

National West
Yellowknife Wraiths
Brittany Walruses
Menagerie Pioneers
Edmunton Eagles

National Coastal
Fiston Redwolves
North Ashialand Dreadnaughts
New Quebec Fighters
Port Kruger Phalanx

1: Ranoria City Falcons
2: Fiston Redwolves
3: Rouyoutte Aurora Knights
4: Pittsburgh Ironmen
5: Berlin Snow Bears
6: Fermete Marauders
7: Memphis Steamers
8: Richardson Fenrirs
9: Highport Hawks
10: Ranoria City Silver
11: Apollotown Sabers
12: Brittany Walruses
13: Balafre Bootleggers
14: Mariana Tigers
15: Dietrich Dynamos
16: Munich Thrashers

RFL 2035 - We'll Accept Nothing Less Than Absolute Chaos




Apollo Esther who? After letting their star running back walk in free agency, the Mariana Tigers drafted Thomas Fantikos, who galloped his way to leading the Ranorian Conference in rushing

The RFL's talent pool has vastly expanded with the influx of foreign players. Chromatiks, Banijans, South Newlandians, Quebecois, Vanorians, and "Yeezies" have raised the league's floor to the point that more teams than not have a shot at going the distance. Some squads tried to aggressively push to load their rosters this offseason - the Rouyoutte Aurora Knights grabbing star quarterback Ballast Queen and wideout Isaak Rodriguez along with defensive end Albus vergol and Baker Park linebacker Clancy Gluber and , the Pittsburgh Ironmen taking a swing on embattled passer Leonardo Torrent and pairing him with running back Apollo Esther - who was the betting favorite for MVP coming into the campaign. The Ranoria City Falcons need no introduction, and somehow grabbing Constantina Perrier at the bottom of the second round only makes the rich richer.

Their neighbors, the Silver, snagged a boatload of fellow Chromatik players, and we can't forget the Fiston Redwolves, pulling one of the best running backs to ever do it in Jack Hoy away from the GLD and signing reigning DPOY Gideon Kearse to a long term deal. Hell, even the Memphis Steamers made moves - looking to right the ship after the mistake of letting Sheila Pantoja walk, they grabbed former NSCF MoP Kualu Luani. There are a lot of good teams to cover, but if you're wanting a full offseason recap, this isn't the place for that. We're here for the meat and potatoes.

The first team we'll take a look at - the Apollotown Sabers. They got a lot of buzz this offseason. After getting Abram Fairbanks some help and assembling a national team-caliber defensive line with Gudbrand Taurus flanking and Candace Ferrett opposite their franchise player, they drafted EVU grad and Serpent Eagles starting running back Zamadi Ayana to lead their offense. After a disappointing 7-9 campaign last season, they looked primed to come roaring back...only they limped out to a 4-4 start that culminated in a 7-9 finish. Fairbanks himself dominated, posting a career-high 18.5 sacks now that he wasn't playing by his lonesome on the defensive line but...

Rookie Recap Time!

Unfortunately with virtually no threat of a passing attack and a sieve of an offensive line, rookie running back Zamadi Ayana struggled to find running room all season. The favorite for rookie of the year was still strong, and flashed his talent, but finished the campaign with 296 carries for just 1,219 yards and ten scores. For a runner of his talent, it's a shame to see him limited by the talent around him, but that seems to be the story of the Sabers franchise - grab a superstar talent and hope they can carry one side of the ball by themselves. Fairbanks managed it his first couple years before they got him help - will Ayana be able to bounce back?

His fellow top five picks didn't seem to have a great start either. QB Ernest Bello certainly flashed his talent for the New Quebec Fighters. Their offense went from scoring 17.4 ppg to 19.4, and he had some absolutely dominant showings, including a 57-6 demolition of the Port Kruger Phalanx and a few other 30+ point outings, but the Fighters just aren't quite ready to contend yet, and ultimately it was an up and down season. That said, no quarterback can be judged by their debut season and even if we were, Bello is the solution on the Fighters, not the problem.

Goliath Castellan was stellar for the Lafayette Crusaders, but there's only so much a left tackle can do, and they finished another lost season at 6-10. Akhello Volson turned in an all-star campaign for the Sierraville Farmers, helping their bottom-feeder defense a year ago to allow 19 per outing, but it wasn't enough to scrape into the playoffs. Richard Dennison, quarterback for the Phalanx picked at number five, actually looked okay - their offensive output increased by 50% as opposed to last season. Linebacker Najee Isidora had a similar impact on the Halifax Blizzard defense as his former ULI teammate Akhello Volson, but it wasn't nearly enough for a playoff bid.

Rolan Monroe, though - selected #19 - was a huge boon for the Yellowknife Wraiths. After losing STK DE Ryan Blake in free agency, they needed a new edge rusher, and the Felswyr State alumn came in and set the tone immedietely. He helped their defense go from a strong 17.6 ppg unit to a dominant one, ceding just 15.5 per outing en route to a playoff bid. He developed a reputation midway through the season after the team had a rocky 2-4 start with a dominant showing against the Brittany Walruses that started the turnaround. He proceeded to lead the league in 4th quarter sacks with 7 of his 11 on the year coming in that period, two coming on third or fourth down to seal one-score wins on the year.

Malchiel Lukiwiya, "The Banijan Beast" from Richardson was a strong add for the Victorsville Hurricane... but they still suck. They went 7-9, but have a formidable man to build around on the interior. The same can be said of Kenneth Bray on the Vancouver Yeti - the Chromatik rookie posted three sacks in his first two games before the league caught on to him - they remembered Abram Fairbanks wrecking the RFL his rookie season when they took to long to adjust to him, and with no other viable threats on the defense, Bray finished the campaign with 6 takedowns.

First - The National North

The Fermete Marauders have been the team to beat here recently, but the Rouyoutte Aurora Knights had one hell of an offseason. They rebranded themselves from their previous iteration, the Colts, and moved from the old Royalty Field to The Elysium, which hosted the NSCF 28 championship and the World Bowl 46 Final as its first two games. It's a consensus that it's surpassed the Karmin-Falce Superdome as the most grand venue Ranoria can offer, even if its capacity isn't quite the same.

On top of that, they signed star quarterback Ballast Queen, longtime starter for the Nashville Sabercats. In eleven seasons with the Sabercats, Queen passed for a nice 38,993 yards and a 2:1 TD:INT ratio with 302 and 149 respectively - he's only missed one career game, and has posted eight straight seasons of 3300+ passing yards. However, he never quite had a loaded receiving room in Nashville, and Aurora Knights showed the deep pockets of their ownership group by snagging Isaak Rodriguez, Krauts #2 wideout and former Fiston Redwolves star. Throw in rookie Saint Kanye wideout Josh Laney-Seymour and this offense was fielding two true home run threats to complement a guy with one of the biggest arms in the league - and they got a nice surprise too, in breakout left tackle Nexus Jones. Alder King, Baker Park native Clancy Gluber, and University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park alumni Albatross "Albie" Vergol provided some star power to an otherwise lackluster defense.

Over in Fermete - longtime rivals of Rouyoutte on the gridiron and every other possible field of human endeavor, they hadn't been quiet. Reigning defensive player of the year Victoria Mio was of course the best player on the roster, but throwing on Krauts starters in Django Reeves, Sage Sterling and Konstantin Vollmacht makes this defense absolutely fearsome. At quarterback, Sheila Pantoja has been consistently...consistent. She's not going to make a ton of huge plays, especially without any standout weapons, but they have a strong offensive line and she's done well for Fermete ever since the Memphis Steamers gave up on her.

The first matchup was huge - the Marauders came in at 5-1 against the 4-2 Aurora Knights, hosting them in Fermete Stadium. The Aurora Knights jumped out to a big lead early as their league-leading pass offense showed its stuff - Queen hit Laney-Seymour for a trifecta of touchdown passes taking advantage of the matchup with Victoria Mio and Sage Sterling often bracketing Isaak Rodriguez, and they'd lead 27-16 heading into the fourth.

It took them long enough, but the Marauders adjusted, moving Sterling over to Josh Laney-Seymour and leaving Victoria Mio on an island against the best Ranorian receiver in the league. She delivered. The Chromatik superstar started the comeback - Rodgriguez was faster, but Queen underestimated her length at 6'8" and she managed to tip a deep pass back to herself. Rodgriguez couldn't recover in time to change direction, and Mio sprinted 57 yards back for her first career touchdown to make it 27-23. A quick three and out from a hot-and-cold Rouyoutte offense, and Sheila Pantoja was able to cap off her final drive with a game-winning touchdown pass.

Dropping the much hyped Aurora Knights to 4-3 should've ended their season, at least effectively. Instead, they came roaring back. Ballast Queen made a legitimate case for MVP, the first time a quarterback with a last name that doesn't start with "G" has done that for a long time, leading his squad on a 7-1 run going into a week 16 showdown with the Marauders in the Elysium. They were 7-0 in that fortress of a stadium going into that game, and at 11-4 now against the 10-5 Fermete Marauders, who were of course 5-4 since their last showdown, this game was effectively a divisional championship.

And it was never close - unlike last time, once Rouyoutte took their two touchdown lead, they never surrendered it, sending the Marauders and their stout defense back to the wild card. Queen's offense would be the top scoring unit in the league with more than thirty points per game - an MVP worthy season, especially considering his leading the league in passing yards and touchdowns with 4304 and 34, respectively, both career highs.

That said, the Marauders were still a playoff team at 10-6, even if a 5-5 finish didn't bode well for their playoff hopes.

But let's get into the fun part - the Ranorian Heartland Conference, aka the Division From Hell.

Mariana Tigers
Berlin Snow Bears
Balafre Bootleggers
Ranoria City Falcons

So, you've got the last two champions here already in the Ranoria City Falcons and the Berlin Snow Bears. The Falcons have lost Gideon Kearse on the defensive side, certainly a blow, but still come in atop the power rankings this season after adding Constantina Perrier in the slot. The Snow Bears got themselves to #5 in the preseason rankings with some gutsy moves, moving on from longtime quarterback Mason Warford to get Gracelyn Jackson and sending a package with former Winter Bowl MVP Dhruv Valentine over to the Tigers to snag Dustin van Halfensen in the draft. With former MVP runner up Gauge Lawson still at running back, they're as much a threat as anyone.

The Mariana Tigers, meanwhile, grabbed a few Elephant national teamers to bolster their squad including QB Zachary Stevens who's slated as a backup, and they landed Thomas Fantikos in the draft - the young runner didn't have much tape on him having backed up Zamadi Ayana most of his career, but he flashed his potential leading a World Bowl 46 playoff offense...it's a swing, but it was one that paid off.

Oh right, and the Bootleggers. Mason Warford elected to revenge-sign there, giving their offense some teeth on top of former OROY RB Franco "Madman" Buchannon... and the Bootleggers showed their faith in him by getting a brand new toy in Quebecois rookie and Ranoria State alumni wideout Jean-Christophe Provost, who turned in one of the better Ranorian collegiate receiving seasons in recent memory for the Wolfhounds last year.

Things started off crazy - the Bootleggers unseated the reigning champions in a week 1 slugfest, much in thanks to Sarai Gwenderyn suffering a hamstring injury that would keep her out of the next three games. The superstar passer would miss the first month of play, but her team still managed a 2-2 start to stay afloat - even if they got thrashed against Rowenna Hastroff's Ranoria City Silver in a dual-home game in the Karmin-Falce Superdome. Rowenna Hastroff managed two fourth quarter touchdowns while Jill Lia and Nicole Manstrom led the team's five sack effort to harass the Falcons backup quarterback.

Many gave HC Jack Halifax props for keeping things manageable at that point, and once she came back she came back in a fury - she ripped off ten total touchdowns in her first two games back, running the Lafayette Crusaders off the field 39-24 and then destroying one of the better defenses in Pittsburgh Ironmen - led by Frederic Benn-Kocian, Eden Park, and Kaiser Belfort's front seven - in a 44-26 win.

Her return seemed to give the team some juice, and they'd knock off the Mariana Tigers 16-7 and Berlin Snow Bears 19-6, both teams opting to run the ball hard to limit Gwenderyn's time on the field, the next two weeks to give them a 6-2 mark at midseason. The win over the Tigers loomed large - they sat at 5-3.

Things got a little dicier after that.

They'd get blown out by the Dietrich Dynamos - Kaytlyne Sellers couldn't get much done on the ground with Park Mi-Hyeon and Jere Rinaldi manning centerfield, but Kohnhead veteran Diego Rodriguez had a field day, tossing three touchdowns in a 33-16 route. A 16-14 win over a John Garrett-less Indianapolis Hogs did little to inspire confidence, and then they came into a huge game in The Elysium against the Rouyoutte Aurora Knights. At this point, Ballast Queen was looking like an MVP contender and this was circled on any football fan's calendar as the shootout of the season. Queen throwing to Isaak Rodriguez and another home run-threat in rookie Josh Laney-Seymour from Saint Kanye. Gwenderyn with the best RFL wideout to ever do it in Alessandra Mio and Constantina Perrier, who'd been incredible picking up yards after catch and taking advantage of the extra attention paid to Mio.

Then the Aurora Knights absolutely eviscerated them, 51-17, in the worst loss of Gwenderyn's RFL career. Krauts second stringers took center stage here - Albatross Vergol was lined up opposite stud left tackle Dierdre Gott to maximize his impact, and he feasted off the weaker right tackle spot, racking up three sacks while linebacker Alder King played spy most of the game, laying a couple big hits on Gwenderyn and limiting her to 30 rushing yards on 5 attempts.

Ballast Queen feasted off a depleted Falcons pass defense - without Gideon Kearse dominating on the outside, they were often hapless in the pass rush and it was becoming more and more clear as the season went on that their secondary was a weak point. Isaak Rodiguez and Laney-Seymour each notched 40+ yard touchdowns as Queen posted the second best game of his career with five touchdown passes.

Meanwhile the rest of the division was starting to wake up. The Balafre Bootleggers started the season 4-4, but finished the season 11-5, completing a sweep of the Falcons in week 10, 29-26 as Mason Waford was posting the best season of his career.

The Mariana Tigers, after that 5-3 start, just would not go away. They beat the Pittsburgh Ironmen and Berlin Snow Bears by a combined four points in weeks 9 and 10, with Thomas Fantikos knocking in the game winning score with just seconds to play in the latter, and then ran it up against their next two opponents before coming into their second game against the Falcons. They'd lost the first 14-13 despite playing possession first ball, and this time Sarai Gwenderyn showed up with violence in mind - she ran up her third game of 5+ touchdowns this season to take a commanding 36-21 lead midway through the third quarter, with a two point conversion for good measure...and then on the next drive, Jere Rinaldi blasted the Tigers starting quarterback, who'd be ruled out of the rest of the game with a sprained AC joint...and on walked Zachary Stevens.

There's a reason he's a backup, but Stevens is a high-end guy on that front, and the coaching staff wanted to show him quickly that they had faith in him. On a play action bootleg to Thomas Fantikos, he launched a ball to Dhruv Valentine, who'd run across the field before turning upfield, mossed the lone defender in the area, and then marched into the end zone to make it 35-28. South Newlandian safety Valantin Pruitt snagged an interception on the next drive and this time they handed the ball off to Fantikos, who was having a stellar rookie season. His first carry went for one yard as he slammed into the brick wall that is Jere Rinaldi. His second...was a bit more fruitful.

The runner cut outside and Rinaldi just didn't quite have the speed to catch the young buck, who crashed through two defensive backs with a full head of steam before he charged through the end zone, tying up this ballgame at 35 apiece.

Gwendern clearly had no intentions of letting this one slip - the way this division was playing out, her Falcons needed every win they could get. She managed a sixth touchdown, this one on the ground, and a pop pass to Contantina Perrier would get them a two point conversion to put this thing seemingly out of reach at 44-35.

"We wanted to get as many points as possible," HC Jack Halifax would say after the game, "Points were coming left and right, so we needed to maximize every scoring opportunity."

Wise words...only his team completely stalled out after that. As some explosive offenses tend to do, the Falcons went cold at the wrong time, and they'd pick up one first down on the next three drives while Zachary Stevens and Thomas Fantikos ground away at the clock for two field goals prior to that final drive.

Four minutes on the clock on the last drive. Too much time to piece up that secondary and give SMBG a ton of time to bring it back, but running against those two on the interior wasn't a much better prospect. Regardless, the coaching staff went with it - and Fantikos delivered what might have been his best drive of the season. He carried the ball on eight straight snaps, eating up the Falcons three timeouts plus some and eeking out forty yards to make it a chip-shot, game winning field goal.

Gwenderyn's attempt at a game winning drive was stopped by the clock, when Constantina Perrier was tackled in bounds and time ran out just before their snap.

Meanwhile in Berlin - after a 4-6 start that only saw them post 20+ points four times, rookie QB Gracelyn Jackson was starting to find her footing with the Berlin Snow Bears, and head coach Elliot McDermott was starting to figure out how to maximize her. Where she'd thrown an RFL leading 155 passes in her first three games to disastrous results, they leaned hard on Gauge Lawson after that, letting him set up play action and allowing giving their rookie passer easier reads and a little extra time in the pocket. It started with the Pittsburgh Ironmen in week 12 - they lit them up for a 44-6 win that kicked off a five game winning streak going into week 17 against who else but the Ranoria City Flacons.

The Falcons were sitting at 10-5 and the Snow Bears 9-6 in a game that'd been flexed to Sunday night. The Mariana Tigers had already clinched the division, this one was for a wild card spot in the most stacked division in the league. Quarterback Gracelyn Jackson had looked overwhelmed last time out in a 19-6 cruise for the Falcons, but here she was, with the hottest team in the conference, facing off against the reigning champs who were fighting for their playoff lives. Fellow rookies in wideout Demitrius St Pierre and tight end Dustin van Halfensen had emerged as complementary weapons to veteran Rachel Klein and Gauge Lawson. Carolyn Bray and rookie Charles Raleigh at corner had emerged as one of the better duos in the game.

They weren't about to let their dream rookie season come crashing down now. And in the Karmin-Falce Superdome, they put on the best show of their season. Gauge Lawson galloped for a pair touchdowns while Gracelyn Jackson his DVH and St Pierre for one apiece, they'd hit four of six field goals on the day to leave no doubt in a 40-24 route of a team that would finish at 10-6 and miss the playoffs for the first time since Sarai Gwenderyn was drafted. In a season where incredibly dominant showings were offset by stale offensive performances, the Falcons never seemed to find their rhythm following SMBG's four game absence, and it's clear that without Kearse, this defense hinges on generational talents at linebacker playing like it. Their secondary looks lost, and their defensive line is arguably the worst in the league.

With John Garrett done, the Memphis Steamers attacked this offseason and it paid off.

The Steamers were aggressive, grabbing Kualu Luani, who hadn't exactly lit it up in his first four seasons despite showing potential, and paired him with Vanorian lightning rod WR Max Strömberg, an old teammate on their championship-winning Raynor team. With a monster in Kasper Ulvestad leading the defense and his running mate Korra Byrn providing a nice complementary rusher - along with NT starter Travis Handon leading one of the league's better offensive lines, they "rocketed" out to a 10-6 record and won their division as Luani posted the best numbers of his career with Strömberg leading the team in receiving as a rookie. The Hogs slipped to 8-8, their worst record since drafting John Garrett, as the Farmboy era has officially passed.

That said, they did take a loss in the final week of the season while hosting the Apollotown Sabers. An inspired effort by Zamadi Ayana saw the rookie running back bursting for 157 yards on 29 carries, the best day of his young career, and he bashed in a pair of touchdowns to boot - the team wasn't mathmatically eliminated from the playoffs going into the game and he ran angry as a result, desperate to make his mark early in this league, and Abram Fairbanks even notched his 18th sack to close it out...but it wasn't quite enough, and they fell just short at 9-7.

Oh and to no one's surprise...the Fiston Redwolves were absolutely cracked.

You sign Jack Hoy and that same Gideon Kearse in the same offseason, things are going to look up. The Redwolves were 37-11 in the last three regular seasons and were runners-up in two of those campaigns while their offense completely leaned on the arm of Lane Proudfoot. He's of course been solid - they scored at a nice 25 per clip in 2034, and some expected that number too drop a bit as they transitioned into a run first team, having lost Isaak Rodriguez and gained Jack Hoy. Nope - they were actually a bit better. They were the third best scoring offense in the league behind only Sarai Gwenderyn's Falcons and Ballast Queen's career-year Aurora Knights with Isaak Rodriguez catching passes. They'd put up a total of 436, scoring more than 26 per game while their defense absolutely dominated with Proko leading the league in forced turnovers and Kearse pacing second in sacks. Jack Hoy of course led the league in carries with an absolutely stunning 360 on the campaign despite playing in just 15 games (well, 15 games and 1 carry in week 16 to get to 2,000 yards, after which he almost comically counted out each individual hashmark to ensure that it was, in fact, 2,000 yards prior to the stadium's PA announcing it) - and 2,000 yards flat. "I'm not sure why they rested me," Hoy told reporters after the backups got a week 16 win, "I wanted to break some records, but they still let me come in and get 2,000 yards. Gotta say, after how tough the Krauts were in the World Bowl, I thought this league would be a bit more competitive than it's been, but these guys," he gestured to the other team, "all suck!"

Meanwhile, Lane Proudfoot's numbers were down a bit - but it was by far his most efficient season as the team had a plus running back for the first time during his tenure. He'd finish with thirty seven hundred yards and a career-best 28:6 TD:INT ratio on just 445 passing attempts.

All that and they'd end up 15-1, cruising to the top seed in the conference as the second-seeded team, the Rouyotte Aurora Knights, had some issued on defense to overcome at 12-4 for the second best record in the league.

Meanwhile, Apollo Esther on the Pittsburgh Ironmen still had a dominant season - he'd lead the league with 21 rushing scores and post a career high 1905 yards as the Ironmen finished 10-6 to make it back to the playoffs, but he was overshadowed big time by Jack Hoy's RFL debut.

Oh, and the big shocker from the national conference - neither 2034 championship participant made the playoffs.

If you thought the Ranoria City Falcons missing the playoffs after slipping up at the end in the league's toughest division was nuts, the Richardson Fenrirs absolutely tanked.

In a division that improved a lot this offseason - Ranoria City Silver's acquiring a ton of Chromatik talent and the Pittsburgh Ironmen making big moves, they suddenly became the odd man out. Their offense - loaded with weapons - went from scoring 21 per game to just 19.4, but it was their defense that really imploded. After losing Candace Ferrett but signing Ryan Blake, it was assumed they'd have a seamless transition...no such luck. 2034's second best scoring defense had allowed less than two touchdowns on average. That total increased to 16.8 per clip, partially due to some badly-timed Tim Hunt interceptions, but regardless, it was a swing of about six points per game on the bad end. And in a league that's so competitive, that's too much to handle. The team went from winning 31 of 48 in the last three seasons to 7-9 this outing and missing the playoffs. And ultimately, what doomed them was going 2-4 in the division. They swept the 8-8 Dietrich Dynamos, but were put on skates against the Silver's Rowenna Hastroff-led running game and absolutely violated by their debuting pass rush unit of Nicole Manstrom, Jill Lia, and Gérard Bullion. They fared no better against the Pittsburgh Ironmen, with no solution to a run-Apollo-Esther-behind-Brian-Shipman strategy on offense while Frederic Benn-Kocian and Eden Park harassed Tim Hunt. Chase Okoma, who was supposed to be the missing piece in this assumed-to-be-strong offense, fumbled six times, three of those coming against Ironmen star Kaiser Belfort... there's no doubt that this team can get back to championship contention, but they're in a tough division, and they'll have to cut down on untimely turnovers next season.

Made Playoffs
First Round Bye
Division Champion
Wild Card

Ranorian Conference

P                               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win %
 1 Mariana Tigers                 16   11   5   299  291   +8    0.688
 2 Balafre Bootleggers            16   11   5   406  255 +151    0.688
 3 Memphis Steamers               16   10   6   327  234  +93    0.625
 4 Berlin Snow Bears              16   10   6   397  312  +85    0.625
 5 Ranoria City Falcons           16   10   6   444  383  +61    0.625
 6 Munich Thrashers               16    9   7   300  282  +18    0.562
 7 Apollotown Sabers              16    9   7   229  223   +6    0.562
 8 Highport Hawks                 16    8   8   401  344  +57    0.500
 9 Indianapolis Hogs              16    8   8   300  248  +52    0.500
10 Vancouver Yeti                 16    7   9   328  354  −26    0.438
11 Victorsville Hurricane         16    7   9   289  342  −53    0.438
12 Sierraville Famers             16    7   9   231  304  −73    0.438
13 Nashville Sabercats            16    6  10   302  324  −22    0.375
14 Halifax Blizzard               16    6  10   264  367 −103    0.375
15 Lafayette Crusaders            16    6  10   289  394 −105    0.375
16 Madison Gladiators             16    3  13   211  388 −177    0.188

National Conference

P                               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win %
 1 Fiston Redwolves               16   15   1   436  210 +226    0.938
 2 Rouyotte Aurora Knights        16   12   4   483  342 +141    0.750
 3 Fermete Marauders              16   10   6   365  251 +114    0.625
 4 Pittsburgh Ironmen             16   10   6   341  283  +58    0.625
 5 Yellowknife Wraiths            16    9   7   303  248  +55    0.562
 6 Ranoria City Silver            16    9   7   323  330   −7    0.562
 7 Dietrich Dynamos               16    8   8   283  303  −20    0.500
 8 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts   16    8   8   306  358  −52    0.500
 9 Richardson Fenrirs             16    7   9   311  269  +42    0.438
10 Brittany Walruses              16    7   9   260  281  −21    0.438
11 Eglise Mountaineers            16    7   9   292  322  −30    0.438
12 Herot Paladins                 16    6  10   265  314  −49    0.375
13 Edmunton Eagles                16    6  10   261  316  −55    0.375
14 Port Kruger Phalanx            16    6  10   278  389 −111    0.375
15 New Quebec Fighters            16    5  11   310  365  −55    0.312
16 Menagerie Pioneers             16    3  13   193  401 −208    0.188

RFL 2035 Playoffs

P                               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win %
 1 Mariana Tigers                 16   11   5   299  291   +8    0.688
 3 Memphis Steamers               16   10   6   327  234  +93    0.625
 6 Munich Thrashers               16    9   7   300  282  +18    0.562
10 Vancouver Yeti                 16    7   9   328  354  −26    0.438
 2 Balafre Bootleggers            16   11   5   406  255 +151    0.688
 4 Berlin Snow Bears              16   10   6   397  312  +85    0.625

P                               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win %
 1 Fiston Redwolves               16   15   1   436  210 +226    0.938
 2 Rouyotte Aurora Knights        16   12   4   483  342 +141    0.750
 4 Pittsburgh Ironmen             16   10   6   341  283  +58    0.625
 5 Yellowknife Wraiths            16    9   7   303  248  +55    0.562
 3 Fermete Marauders              16   10   6   365  251 +114    0.625
 6 Ranoria City Silver            16    9   7   323  330   −7    0.562

So despite being just 11-5, the Mariana Tigers earned the first seed behind strong running from Thomas Fantikos while the Memphis Steamers - led by Kualu Luani and Max Strömberg, managed a first round bye at 10-6. The National conference was a little less balanced, with the Redwolves going 15-1 for the second time in four seasons, much in thanks to a pair of top-tier offseason additions in Drawkian legend Jack Hoy and Krauts star Gideon Kearse. The Rouyoutte Aurora Knights clocked in a 12-4 campaign with Ballast Queen putting up one of the best passing seasons by anyone not named John Garrett or Sarai Gwenderyn in recent memory.

Wild Card
Balafre @ Vancouver
Vancouver Yeti 23–20 Balafre Bootleggers

Do we have a storyline developing? The Bootleggers were a popular underdog bet to win the whole thing - with strong running from Franco Buchannon and Mason Warford posting the best passing numbers of his career, they had a soft first round matchup and went 10-6 in the toughest division in the league, sweeping the Ranoria City Falcons. Oh right, then the Bootleggers, with a tie ballgame late, looked to pick up a 3rd and long, and Kenneth Bray strip sacked Warford to set up excellent field position. Cooper Canis - a longtime Cold Hill Buffalo who's been mediocre at best in the pros - snagged a 17 yard reception to get the 7-9 Yeti into field goal range, and amazingly, they knocked it through.

Berlin @ Munich
Munich Thrashers 14–38 Berlin Snow Bears

The Munich Thrashers are living on borrowed time - their star runner, Saul Thomas Sr, is thirty years old but still productive. The running back has had a solid career with a heavy workload after exploding onto the scene at Richardson University once his son was born. They took a swing on Hannes Jackson at #7 in last year's draft and he helped fortify their defense that's seeing their championship window close (if it was ever there), but the Snow Bears are just on a much higher level. Gauge Lawson, Gracelyn Jackson, St. Pierre, Dhruv Valentine, and Rachel Klein made for far too many weapons to defend as they look to become the second team to make the championship with a rookie quarterback.

Ranoria City @ Pittsburgh
Ranoria City Silver 6–17 Pittsburgh Ironmen

The Silver's defense held firm - Jill Lia and Nicole Manstrom harassed Leonardo Torrent and hampered Apollo Esther with the help of Gerard Bullion, but ultimately Rowenna Hastroff just couldn't get anything going. Frederic Benn-Kocian is a contender for DROY at defensive end, while fellow Quebecois Eden Park was staunch at tackle and of course, Kaiser Belfort is a force of pure rage. The Ironmen made a lot of aggressive moves this offseason but were overshadowed just a bit on that front by the Aurora Knights, particularly when the latter went 12-4 to their 10-6.


Fermete @ Yellowknife
Yellowknife Wraiths 10–13 Fermete Marauders

Tough outing - but Sheila Pantoja led a gutsy win and held off an attempted comeback by the Wraiths by playing pure possession football in the fourth quarter. Victoria Mio forced a fumble on veteran runner Gareon Parsons to win it, her second forced turnover of the day.

P                               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win %
 1 Mariana Tigers                 16   11   5   299  291   +8    0.688
 3 Memphis Steamers               16   10   6   327  234  +93    0.625
10 Vancouver Yeti                 16    7   9   328  354  −26    0.438
 4 Berlin Snow Bears              16   10   6   397  312  +85    0.625

P                               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win %
 1 Fiston Redwolves               16   15   1   436  210 +226    0.938
 2 Rouyotte Aurora Knights        16   12   4   483  342 +141    0.750
 4 Pittsburgh Ironmen             16   10   6   341  283  +58    0.625
 3 Fermete Marauders              16   10   6   365  251 +114    0.625

Berlin @ Mariana
Mariana Tigers 29–28 Berlin Snow Bears

What a game - the Snow Bears bid at a second championship appearance in three seasons fell short - but only just in their third matchup with the Tigers. Tied 21-21 going into the closing minutes, the Snow Bears took a deep shot. Rachel Klein, who'd burnt the Tigers with over a hundred receiving yards, lined up in the slot with Demitrius St Pierre on the outside, and a skinny post by Klein forced the safety to take her deep, leaving St Pierre one on one. Valantin Pruitt lost a step to St Pierre and that was it as fellow rookie Gracelyn Jackson hit him in stride for a 47 yard touchdown that looked like it would win it. The Tigers had a soft passing attack and just two minutes remaining. Carolyn Bray and Charles Raleigh weren't going to make it easy...but then they really missed Konstantin Vollmacht.

Thomas Fantikos, who'd ripped off 1644 yards in the regular season, blasted straight through the middle of the defense on a back-breaking run that Bray managed to stop after 71 yards at the four yard line. They milked the clock, and Fantikos slammed in the final four on the next play to make it 27-28.

They didn't chance their season on a PAT. Fantikos took his third straight carry, and once again he cut right through the heart of the Snow Bear defense for a walk-off two point conversion.

Vancouver @ Memphis
Memphis Steamers 38–6 Vancouver Yeti

Holy smokes - Kualu Luani wasn't about to underestimate the Vancouver Yeti. He and Strömberg hooked up for a pair of first quarter touchdowns and let Kasper Ulvestad handle the rest - the star pass rusher teed off for a sack in each of the final three quarters once their opponent was forced to pass.

Fermete @ Fiston
Fiston Redwolves 10–0 Fermete Marauders

Ouch. Sheila Pantoja's lack of any threats on the outside came back to bite her here, with Proko out-muscling receivers on two interceptions and Gideon Kearse dragging her down thrice when no one could get open. Proudfoot didn't doo much - going 10/13 for 101 yards and an interception - but Jack Hoy would carry the day with just over one hundred rushing yards and a score.

Pittsburgh @ Rouyoutte
Rouyoutte Aurora Knights 22–24 Pittsburgh Ironmen

Wow - down goes Ballast Queen. In what was supposed to be a storybook season, the best offense in the league stumbled against the nasty defensive front of the Ironmen. They did just enough to hold Queen and crew to 22 while Leo Torrent and Apollo Esther would do their part to reach the conference championship game, clinched by a Kaiser Belfort strip sack on Queen.

P                               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win %
 1 Mariana Tigers                 16   11   5   299  291   +8    0.688
 3 Memphis Steamers               16   10   6   327  234  +93    0.625

P                               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win %
 1 Fiston Redwolves               16   15   1   436  210 +226    0.938
 4 Pittsburgh Ironmen             16   10   6   341  283  +58    0.625

Memphis @ Mariana
Mariana Tigers 21–20 Memphis Steamers

Best game of the weekend for sure - the Tigers passing attack is lacking, but the Steamers found themselves in a 21-6 deficit going into the fourth quarter. Strömberg had been limited to an extent by Valentin Pruitt, with 2 catches for 11 yards to this point. But the Vanorian found another gear, with several big catches in that final quarter to help the team get to 21-20, only for a missed PAT to doom their hope of advancing.

Pittsburgh @ Fiston
Fiston Redwolves 24–3 Pittsburgh Ironmen

No chance. The Ironmen's monstrous defensive front re-introduced Kaiser Belfort and Jack Hoy. Last time, Hoy got the W on the scoreboard, but it came in a low-scoring affair and Belfort certainly left an impression. Not this time. The Redwolves looked certifiably unstoppable as Pittsburgh's offense fell flat on its face, Proko coming into the box to help contain Apollo Esther.

Regular Season Awards:

Offensive Rookie Of The Year: RB Thomas Fantikos, Mariana Tigers
No question here. Plenty of talented rookies made a run. Max Stromberg, Gracelyn Jackson, and Ernest Bello in fact all earned votes, but Fantikos ran away with it - literally. The rookie stepped in and replaced a certifiable star in Apollo Esther before ripping off 1600+ yards to lead the conference in rushing and lead his team to a championship appearance.

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Yellowknife Wraiths DE Rolan Monroe

Monroe had the biggest impact on his defense as a rookie. Frederic Benn-Kocian was a stud for the Ironmen, and DT Malchiel Lukiwiya earned nearly 30% of the votes after a monster rookie campaign, but Monroe improved his team's defense by a margin of more than 2 points per game, drastically improving their odds of victory.

Offensive Player of the Year: Rouyoutte Aurora Knights QB Ballast Queen

Had the Redwolves not run away with the first seed and a 15-1 record, Queen may have had a chance at the MVP. Regardless, his career-best season and first 4,000+ yard campaign was enough to earn his first award beyond an all-star nod as he finally led an offense that let him off the leash. Queen led the league with 4,304 passing yards and 34 touchdowns with only 15 interceptions.

Defensive Player Of the Year - Apollotown Sabers DE Abram Fairbanks

A bittersweet ending for Fairbanks this season - the team got him help, and Zamadi Ayana promised to be the spark that made their offense competent. The latter had a strong season, and Fairbanks recorded a career-high 18.5 sacks, but the Sabers missed the playoffs in a tragic twist of fate despite an inspired effort in week 17 to get to 9-7.

Footballer of the Year: Brittany Walruses G Uzziah Amondi

Amondi, who’s now won first team all pro in each of his first three seasons, apparently isn’t quite as mean for the field as he is on it. He’s received a lot of praise for his significant financial contributions to cancer research through his charity, garnering plenty of publicity for the cause in the process.

RFL 2035 MVP:

Fiston Redwolves Runningback Jack Hoy

A near-unanimous selection, Jack Hoy was an animal this season. With 360 carries for 2,000 yards flat in fifteen games and one other snap, he easily led the league in carries and rushing yards. Best player, most impactful player, on the best team. Plenty of defenders facing him in the playoff run have made it clear they took offense to his "these guys all suck" comment upon the conclusion of the regular season...but it hasn't stopped his warpath yet. Will he complete his conquest of the RFL just one year in?

Final:
Fiston Redwolves 22–6 Mariana Tigers
Championship MVP: HB Jack Hoy, Fiston Redwolves

At last! After three championship trips, Lane Proudfoot has finally led the Redwolves to their first championship.

This started as a low scoring affair - both teams wanted to run the ball hard, and that's what they did. The Redwolves drew first blood at 3-0, but the Tigers knocked through a pair of field goals to take their only lead of the game. The Redwolves wanted to make a statement on their next drive though, and made it a five point lead with a two point conversion, both that and the score courtesy of Jack Hoy.

From there, the Tigers kicker missed two field goals from inside the forty, and they failed two red zone fourth down conversion attempts from 5+ yards as the game got away from them. They were forced to pass the ball, something this team just isn't designed to do and virtually eliminating Thomas Fantikos's impact on the final two quarters - much to the delight of Gideon Kearse and Proko, who'd earn three combined sacks.

Gideon Kearse, after signing with this team, won his second consecutive title, while Calvin Hale (a 3x WB Champ). Lane Proudfoot, Jack Hoy, and Proko all earned their first RFL title.

[Ranoria]

OOC: Notes
1- The Ranorian football league doesn’t employ fifth year options or franchise tags. This gives players significantly more leverage in negotiations and leads to more player movement.
2- all those rules favoring the passing game - those aren’t a thing here. Hard hitting safeties and linebackers are at a premium, making the middle of the field a dangerous place to throw, roughing the passer calls are few and far between, and defensive backs are often given a bit of leeway with their physicality prior to the catch.
3- Because of this, expect significantly lower average passing numbers than in the NFL. In 70+ seasons, the RFL has had five 4,700+ yard seasons, two 5,000+ yard passing seasons, and seven 40+ passing TD seasons. By comparison, there have been 15 5,000+ yard seasons in the NFL and 19 NFL seasons of 40+ passing touchdowns. Please keep this in mind if your players - particularly QBs, WRs, or TEs, aren’t having the production you’d expect.
4- also as a result of this, running backs take on a greater role and the average rushing numbers are higher. 2,000+ yards is still a rarity.
5- I'm not committed to any more heavily RP'd seasons, but the league will continue to run as long as I have the currently in place foreign players at the very least

6- Few changes last season! First - we've introduced divisions! I say we because I wouldn't have been able to do this without South Newlandia, huge thanks to him there. Everyone's favorite elephant is crucial and indispensable to the scoring of the RFL now. Two teams were taken out of the league - the Lorcondan National Team and Calgary Stampede - to accommodate this. No foreign (or even notable Ranorian) players were on those teams.

With that said, we've moved to a more familiar format for everyone - four divisions per conference, with each division champion and two wild cards from each conference making the playoffs.

Ranorian Conference

Ranorian Heartland
Mariana Tigers
Berlin Snow Bears
Balafre Bootleggers
Ranoria City Falcons

Ranorian Central
Memphis Steamers
Indianapolis Hogs
Nashville Sabercats
Apollotown Sabers

Ranorian Coastal
Highport Hawks
Sierraville Famers
Munich Thrashers
Victorsville Hurricane

Ranorian North
Lafayette Crusaders
Halifax Blizzard
Madison Gladiators
Vancouver Yeti

National Conference

National North
Rouyoutte Aurora Knights
Eglise Mountaineers
Herot Paladins
Fermete Marauders

National Central
Ranoria City Silver
Pittsburgh Ironmen
Dietrich Dynamos
Richardson Fenrirs

National West
Yellowknife Wraiths
Brittany Walruses
Menagerie Pioneers
Edmunton Eagles

National Coastal
Fiston Redwolves
North Ashialand Dreadnaughts
New Quebec Fighters
Port Kruger Phalanx

1: Ranoria City Falcons
2: Fiston Redwolves
3: Rouyoutte Aurora Knights
4: Pittsburgh Ironmen
5: Berlin Snow Bears
6: Fermete Marauders
7: Memphis Steamers
8: Richardson Fenrirs
9: Highport Hawks
10: Ranoria City Silver
11: Apollotown Sabers
12: Brittany Walruses
13: Balafre Bootleggers
14: Mariana Tigers
15: Dietrich Dynamos
16: Munich Thrashers

RFL 2036 Regular Season - The Revenge Tour




After a couple of odd down years, Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth led the league's third best offense to a 12 win season

Without nearly as much player movement this season as the last, a lot of contenders pretty much said "run it back." Coming off one of the more dominant seasons in RFL history and with the reigning MVP in the backfield, the defending champion Redwolves like their odds. The Berlin Snow Bears, with QB Gracelyn Jackson and TE Dustin van Halfensen in year two, certainly look to take a step forward in a loaded division. The Richardson Fenrirs are just two seasons removed from a championship appearance of their own, an appearance that ended in a loss to the Falcons - who missed the playoffs by the skin of their teeth at 10-6 last season. Odds are we don't need to explain why despite that tragedy, they're still atop the power rankings this season.

Without further ado...

The National North:

Rouyoutte Aurora Knights
Eglise Mountaineers
Herot Paladins
Fermete Marauders

The Aurora Knights were last seasons' media darlings. QB Ballast Queen and WR Isaak Rodriguez made for monster signings on the offensive end, powering a team that wanted to throw the ball down the field. Throw in Albus Vergol, Alder King, and Clancy Gluber on the front seven on the other side and they look primed to make another run. Fermete is the biggest shot at knocking them down a peg, led by Sheila Pantoja, who's held down a starting role for years now, and one of the best secondaries in the league with Krauts strong safety Sage Sterling and all-world corner Victoria Mio. Kontantin Vollmacht and Django Reeves make it four high-level NT starters on the defense. Throw in a stout interior offensive line and they're always a threat.

The Herot Paladins have enough to keep games competitive - with Vanorian studs in Alexander Ostby at running back and WR Darin Sundström and they've got some firepower. The Eglise Mountaineers...well they should probably stick to raking in cash from tourists visiting their ski slopes, poor Chromatik TE Calista Weathers is their best player. After losing Jere Rinaldi to free agency a few years back, they've been directionless.

Through eight weeks, this was Rouyoutte's world and everyone else was just living in it. The Aurora Knights won each of their first eight, with Ballast Queen showing that cannon of an arm that earned him a scholarship at Stoneshore University and absolutely torching anyone who had the audacity to step into their Elysium. And then they seemed to get the impression that they weren't all that great. The Victorsville Hurricane aren't a super good team. They'd finish this season at 8-8 and 7-9 a year ago. But somehow, they beat the Aurora Knights 33-20 to start an absolute skid. The problem? They stopped scoring in bunches. Despite a strong defensive lineup, this team is aggressive on offenses, and that means if they're not scoring, often drives end quickly. More possessions, more time for their defense to be on the field. Ballast Queen went from an MVP contender to inconsistent at best, scoring over twenty just thrice in the final eight.

And in even crazier news, it was Eglise that capitalized. With Fermete starting the season at 6-2 and Eglise at 5-3, they were all looking pretty strong outside of the fact that Rouyoutte had forgotten how to lose until midseason. The Fermete Marauders and Pantoja finished the season 9-7 - a bummer after such a nice opening half, and somehow Eglise did something good, maintaining pace to win ten games. It wasn't quite enough to actually win the division, with Rouyoutte ending it holding on for dear life at 11-5, but ten wins was enough to earn them a playoff bid.

Rouyotte Aurora Knights 11-5
Eglise Mountaineers 10-6
Fermete Marauders 9-7
Herot Paladins 5-11

National Central

Ranoria City Silver
Pittsburgh Ironmen
Dietrich Dynamos
Richardson Fenrirs

So this division's one of the tightest in the league. The Ranoria City Silver answered their neighbors' offensive juggernaut with a sleuth of Chromatik defenders. Jill Lia and Nicole Manstrom off the edges, Gerard Bullion plugging up the middle, and Vi Nia-Kaid manning the safety spot. Throw in Rowenna Hastroff taking handoffs behind Pomeroy Lockhart and Izaya Hanzo, plus former NSCF SPTOY at wideout as an x factor, and they're a balanced team. The Pittsburgh Ironmen aren't too far removed from a dynasty that centered around defensive end Angelo Gordon, and they're trying to rebuild that. Apollo Esther needs no introduction at running back, and they brought in Leonardo Torrent at quarterback - he hasn't been incredible in his first five seasons, but he's shown flashes and last season was the best of his career. With Frederic Benn-Kocian, Kaiser Belfort, and Eden Park forming one of the game's most terrifying front seven units, they're never out of it. The Dietrich Dynamos are likely the least well rounded unit - Sean Morgan-Horne makes up their defense while Kaytlyne Sellers at running back and Kohnheadian Diego Rodriguez will be tasked with carrying an otherwise barren offense. Heartbreaking for a franchise that won back-to-back championships under Diamond Rhine, but their inability to manage his ego tanked a potential dynasty with him, Alessandra Mio, and Johnny Farmer all on the same team.

And finally, the Richardson Fenrirs. They had some major championship hangover, going 7-9 after losing to the Falcons in 2034, but they're still loaded. Tim Hunt is a top-10 passer in this league and indisputably the best in the division. With Deshawn Fredericks and Tyron Hall at wideout and Chase Okoma offering some lightning running game, they're a strong bet to score in bunches. Ryan Blake leads a good defense...what can they put on the field this season?

The first half of the season got nobody anywhere. Three of the teams sat at 4-4 through eight, with Diego Rodriguez playing out of his mind to get the Dynamos to the division lead at 5-3. That said, they suffered a painful series of losses - that third loss came in shutout fashion against the Eglise Mountaineers in week 8 and the Steamers blew them out 27-3 in week 9. The Silver, riding their own two-game-skid, knew something had to change, and fast. So they made it happen - Nicole Manstrom and Jill Lia made the Dynamos' tackles look like the turnstiles they were, combining for three sacks on Diego Rodriguez and a pair of tackles for loss. Despite the harassment, he had managed to get his team into field goal range five times and somehow or another, a Ranorian went 5/5 on field goals, enough to have a 15-9 lead.

With no passing game to speak of and two minutes to play, Rowenna Hastroff's number was called, and she answered. The Chromatik runner took the ball on a toss, with one of her pulling guards able to pick up Sean Morgan-Horne, broke one tackle, and she was gone. Sixty four yards to take the win and the first touchdown of the contest. That game would start off their run, and was the biggest game of the season in terms of the division's fate, as the Richardson Fenrirs shockingly didn't do much. They scored just over 20 points per game, allowed just under 19, and overall were just incredibly mediocre en route to a second consecutive 7-9 season - after such a strong start to Tim Hunt's career, this team is probably getting blown up last season to give their young passer a chance to succeed. It's really been a curious regression. After a 2033 season that seemed to be their breakout, with Deshawn Fredericks ripping off a league-leading 1,621 yards in a historically dominant season, the Fenrirs seemed to be back. Tim Hunt passed for a 3,750 yards and 29 scores with just eleven picks that season, and 2034 was even better - he broke the 4,000 yard mark for the first time in his career, Fredericks still posted a dominant thirteen hundred yard season, and they made a championship game! It was a nice cap off to a 31-17 stretch over the past three regular seasons. The team was consistently winning and had shown they possessed championship upside.

Since that day, they've got 14-18 and have missed the postseason twice. Deshawn Fredericks hasn't broken the 900 yard mark - not bad for an RFL wideout, but when he's shown that he can break that mold a la players like Alessandra Mio, Isaak Rodriguez, or Nikolas Isaksen (who's posted three straight 1,000+ yard seasons), it's a bit of a disappointment. His quarterback meanwhile has regressed heavily. From his second season in 2032 onward, Hunt posted a stellar 83:32 TD:INT ratio, combining elite production with even better aversion to turnovers. Ever since his rookie year, his yardage production had steadily increased. But the last two seasons, he's thrown a good-not-great 47 touchdowns to 31 interceptions and has averaged just under thirty six hundred yards. Whatever's happening in Richardson, this team has hit a wall, and we're not sure how they can break out of that muck.

For all that, this team was still in it at 5-5 in week ten, which looked like it could be a turning point - the Fenrirs battled for four quarters with their division rival Ironmen to a mark of 20 apiece thanks to a rushing score courtesy of Chase Okoma in the closing minutes. The Ironmen were ferocious on defense - even that late, a weary Kaiser Belfort run stuff forced a field goal to keep this thing going into the second overtime, 23-23, but Fenrirs defensive end Ryan Blake batted down a fourth down pass on the final play of the game to seal their victory, 26-23. But instead of that epic turnaround, they collapsed.

Richardson lost four straight, and only one of those losses came to an eventual playoff team. The North Ashialand Dreadnaughts and HB Elliot Roach ran all over them in a 30-14 bludgeoning, then the Indianapolis Hogs benefited from the single worst performance of Tim Hunt's career in a 16-0 shutout by picking him off four times. In what looked like a potential shootout going in, Diego Rodriguez's Dietrich Dynamos ran them off the field 38-14, and finally they looked completely outmatched in a 20-3 blowout against the Redwolves.

To their credit, they finished strong - Tim Hunt ripped off his best showing of the season with four touchdown passes and 406 yards as the Menagerie Pioneers came into Dietrich Stadium to be slaughtered fifty nothing. Chase Okoma would break the century mark and add a score of his own, and Ryan Blake dominated with three sacks while Deshawn Fredericks looked like his old self, tackling the century mark and coming halfway to doing it twice in this one. A 24-9 win over the Ranoria City Silver was a good way to end it, outscoring their final two opponents by a combined 74-9, but it was much too little and far too late in a lost season.

The Silver did just enough to make the playoffs by the skin of their teeth at 9-7, with the Ironmen and Dynamos just missing out. The Dynamos have to find some direction, while the Ironmen, after a 10-6 season last go-round, are likely to move on from some stars to free up space to take the next step.

Central
Ranoria City Silver 9-7
Dietrich Dynamos 8-8
Pittsburgh Ironmen 8-8
Richardson Fenrirs 7-9

National West

Edmunton Eagles
Yellowknife Wraiths
Brittany Walruses
Menagerie Pioneers

The Wraiths have DT Spencer Crutchfield. Nobody cares about the Pioneers. Edmunton's DL is pretty solid. But nobody cares about them, because the Walruses are here! And they have former Richardson standout DE Malik Sherman as well as the best guard in the RFL in Banijan Uzziah Amondi. Now there's some guy named Roland King in the backfield, but he's mediocre at best. We'll let the midseason interviews do the talking.

With OL Coach Blake McCartny

Reporter: So Blake, what's the secret to your offense this season?
Blake: Well, it was real annoying in the pre season. Everyone was talking about all this fancy crap, and I couldn't get a word in edgewise. They told me "just handle the hogs!" And well, finally, I got mad! So I flipped the table, told the other offensive guys to shut the hell up, and said we're running the ball behind Uzziah Amondi.
Reporter: And how did that go?
Blake: They made me our new offensive coordinator, the old guy's a glorified janitor now.

There's a reason Amondi's been an all-pro in each of his first four seasons - he's a monster. Roland King recorded a career-high 1,411 rushing yards and fifteen scores running behind the monstrosity, who was dominant whether he was pulling, pancaking, or at one point blocking a defensive lineman and blitzing corner in pass protection. They literally let him drag them to a 10-6 season, with two instances of his ragdolling Roland King over the goal line on runs that may not have ended in scores.

Anyway - the Walruses went 10-6 and won the division. Pretty much everyone else here is irrelevant.

Brittany Walruses: 10-6
Yellowknife Wraiths: 10-6
Edmunton Eagles: 6-10
Menagerie Pioneers: 4-12

The Tale of Jack Hoy, Lane Proudfoot, and Some Short Kid Who's A Pain In Their Neck (National Coastal)

North Ashialand Dreadnaughts
New Quebec Fighters
Port Kruger Phalanx
Fiston Redwolves

Let's be real, no one expected the Redwolves to have much competition. They routinely win a lot of games - they were doing that even before Jack Hoy came and won MVP in his debutant season and added in Gideon Kearse for good measure. They're the reigning champions. North Ashialand's Dreadnaughts aren't much of a threat - if Elliot Roach has a historic season like when he won MVP, they can be, but he's a one-man army over there. Port Kruger is on record saying they would have taken Aurel Strathos over Sarai Gwenderyn if they'd picked before Ranoria City. Whether that was to inspire confidence in their quarterback or not, that's disgraceful. (Prior to this season, SMBG has over 27k passing yards and 200+ TD to under 70 INT. Strathos probably works at a convenience store, he's really bad.)

Anyway - there happened to be some ornery kid who went to school in Quebec and Shingoryeo named Ernest Bello. Going into year two, the passer was looking to make a big leap after a 5-11 season in which he flashed his tremendous upside. He'd get his chance to show his progress in week one against those same Redwolves, and damn if he didn't try. Ernest Bello, with Eric Modin at right tackle and Bennet Burks (ever heard of him? Didn't think so) as his top wideout, played one hell of a game for three quarters, putting up 20 in that span behind 330 yards - 94 rushing and 236 passing - and it was enough to keep it close. The Redwolves held a slim advantage, 24-20, and then things started to fall apart. Against a team that much better, he had to play perfect, and Bello just isn't that guy for four quarters yet. Prokopios Vortigern Rooijakkers snagged a pick six off of him to kick off his dominant season and Lane Proudfoot hit Calvin Hale for a touchdown soon after - the Redwolves took it home 38-23, but hey, solid start, and it'd end up being one of five times the Redwolves conceded 20+ this season.

That said - Fiston wasn't looking like the reigning champs. After an incredibly dominant first four games, they dropped five straight, including a three-game stretch where they scored a combined 26 points. Jack Hoy wasn't struggling by any means, but not quite posting the same numbers as last season, and Lane Proudfoot had a really bad month - after winning a title and that 4-0 start, rumors had begun to swirl that he had been spotted in Fiston clubs and otherwise engaging in the city's nightlife.

Just a game behind now, the Fighters had a chance in week 10 to make something happen.

Things did not happen. In fact they were bad. This time playing in their home stadium, the CannabisCorp Field of Green, the Fighters got rolled over. Kearse looked the part of the spearhead of a World Bowl championship team and Proko played incredible football at all three levels of the defense - that'd be the end of the upstart Bello's bid, as his squad finished 8-8 to Fiston's 10-6. But having shown his stuff and guiding an offense that scored over 22 points per game, up from under 20 last season - this team will be motivated to invest in the dual threat and build a contender around him. Proudfoot cleaned up his act in a big way - the Redwolves springboarded off that win to go from a 5-game skid to winning six of their last seven and pulling away at 10-6 to finish the season with the league's second best offense. Even with that awful five game run, they scored a whopping 492 points, up from 436 last season as Proudfoot took to the skies, looking comfortable in his second year without wideout Isaak Rodgriguez. He cracked the 4,000 yard mark for the first time in three years, and the fourth time overall in his career.

Fiston Redwolves: 10-6
New Quebec Fighters: 8-8
North Ashialand Dreadnaughts: 6-10
Port Kruger Phalanx: 4-12

Ranorian North:

Madison Gladiators
Lafayette Crusaders
Vancouver Yeti
Halifax Blizzard

There are some real star players in the Ranorian North. The Vancouver Yeti are fielding former first-round pick Kenneth Bray at defensive end. The Lafayette Crusaders have a monster in left tackle Goliath Castellan. Vanorian wideout Nikolas Isaksen and star linebacker Najee Isidora are Halifax's bread and butter, and Madison...yeah they're just not very good at football.

Unfortunately, overall, these rosters are barren and there's been speculation across the sporting world that the owners saw "manager" on a résumé and weren't informed there's a difference between running a local fast food joint and being the general manager of a professional football team. Either all these stars are going to be saved in free agency or someone's going to get good fast and own this division. No in between. Lafayette won it at 8-8. Goliath Castellan was a first team all pro and didn't allow a sack while committing just one penalty all season. Nikolas Isaksen and Najee Isidora were effectively playing 1v11 when they were on the field and Kenneth Bray's situation is no better, although the young gun did manage to rack up ten sacks.

Lafayette Crusaders: 8-8
Vancouver Yeti: 7-9
Halifax Blizzard: 7-9
Madison Gladiators: 3-13

Don't Call It A Comeback: Ranorian Coastal

Munich Thrashers
Sierraville Farmers
Highport Hawks
Victorsville Hurricane

Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth, where have you been?

After forming a trifecta with the John Garrett-led Hogs and Sarai Gwenderyn's Falcons from 2029 to 2032 as the class of the conference, the Hawks have had a couple of down years. The excitement of a team fielding the RFL's single-season rushing king in Herman Whitworth and a former OPOY in Byron Joseph slinging the rock has died down. Some of that, undoubtedly, was Joseph's age - he's slowed down a bit, and needed to transition into more of a passing role. But now, he seems completely able to do just that while still chipping in on the ground. Joseph ripped off a career-high 4,205 passing yards and hit 30 touchdowns for the third time in his career with just a dozen interceptions on the season while Whitworth reminded everyone that he's still in his prime, ripping off a league-leading 1,804 rushing yards.

Their only real competition came from the Victorsville Hurricanes, but they never made a real push at 4-4 through midseason and 8-8 at the finish - Jacob Silva at guard is their only standout on offense and "The Banijan Beast" Malchiel Lukiwiya can same the same at defensive tackle on defense. However, they did give them one of the most electric games of the season in week 10.

We've made it pretty clear that Victorsville doesn't have a whole lot of offensive firepower, but they gave that impression in this one. Things started loud, with Byron Joseph hitting William Carey for a 43 yard touchdown to cap off the opening drive, and the Hurricane couldn't match, going three and out. Enter Malchiel Lukiwiya. On a read-option, Joseph kept the ball when he saw the edge rusher crashing, but he never saw Lukiwiya violating the interior of his offensive line - the big man smashed into him with the force of a mid-sized SUV and scooped the ball in stride. Herman Whitworth managed to catch up with him at the five, but he carried the running back into the end zone while Joseph was still on the ground.

A series of unfortunate events (see - a second Lukiwiya strip sack and a pair of interceptions) later, and the Hurricane were on fire. With a couple of short drives and Lukiwiya's defensive score, they had managed to pile on forty points while a reeling Hawks team was sitting far behind at 20 late in the third quarter.

That's when Byron Joseph came back - with what looked like two flak jackets on under his jersey. But he wasn't worried - on his first play back, he scampered for a first down. On his second, he took another hit from Lukiwiya to hit Vasily Schmidt down the seam for another long touchdown pass, and all of a sudden, momentum was on their side.

Robert Lawrence on defense managed to get himself a third down sack, and got the ball back for his team. By the fourth quarter, Herman Whitworth barreled in for a goal line touchdown and things were getting tense, with Hawks tackle Santiago Rae and Lukiwiya getting into it a bit after the score. The two teams exchanged field goals after that, and somehow even with a 43-37 lead, it felt like the Hurricane would let this one slip away.

It was a broken play that ended it. Lukiwiya broke through the line as he continued one of the most dominant performances of his young career, but Byron Joseph was just too fast. The Kohnheadian sidestepped him, weaved his way through a shattered pocket, locked eyes with second-year wideout Tanner Aurelio, pointed up, then bootlegged out to avoid Lukiwiya again before he let that thing rip. Aurelio, a true home run threat from Rouyoute (the nation in Sonnel, not our city up north), had three steps on his man and went untouched for the game winning score. The Hurricane ended up swept by the Hawks, leaving no doubt that, as a team, they just weren't quite able to keep up yet.

Highport Hawks: 12-4
Victorsville Hurricane: 8-8
Munich Thrashers: 5-11
Sierraville Farmers: 4-12

The Ranorian Central, a land that we figured would be ruled under the iron fist of Zamadi Ayana and Abram Fairbanks by now

Memphis Steamers
Indianapolis Hogs
Nashville Sabercats
Apollotown Sabers

Okay but seriously, what is this division?

The shell of an Indianapolis Hogs franchise that had never, is not, and probably will never do anything without John Garrett under center. (They do have a giant in Isguld native Thor Maliek at guard though, dude's scary) The Sabercats - again, a husk after Ballast Queen walked. The Memphis Steamers - same story but with Derek McNair. They had a chance before they spurned Sheila Pantoja, who's proven herself to be a quality starter.

Kidding, they just keep getting good quarterbacks - they signed Kualu Luani last season and then drafted this guy named Max Strömberg, you'll hear more about him later. Travis Handon's the Krauts starter at LT, Chromatik Markus Xanneret is under center, veteran Kamil Fulches takes the right tackle spot to round out a solid OL, and then former NSCF MoP pairs up with Korra Byrn to form a nasty edge tandem. Pretty good team. That's two NSCF Most Outstanding Player winners on the squad including Luani - wonder who they'll go after next?

But the Sabers are the favorites. Zamandi Ayana, a monster of a running back prospect, gives the offense the sum of its teeth. Candace Ferrett, Gudbrand Taurus, and Abram Fairbanks form a national-team-tier defensive front. Fairbanks of course took the league by storm as a rookie, and along with Gideon Kearse can make a claim to being the best edge defender in the world. Throw in a couple Kraut backups in Agnor Viridian and Leon Elliot behind them and you've got a disgusting defensive unit.

So why don't they win games?

Through midseason, it was the Steamers out in front at 6-2 while the Sabers just couldn't right the ship at 4-4. After a shutout victory over the Hogs to start the season and a dramatic victory over the Lafayette Crusaders that saw Zamadi Ayana score 3 of the team's 5 touchdowns, they had some trouble. A 33-6 loss against the RC Silver, then getting shut out against the Memphis Steamers, who took advantage of a weak offensive line to constantly hit Ayana in the backfield. They'd then get another shutout against the Yeti before dropping another against the Apollotown Sabers.

Week seven on Monday Night against the Nashville Sabercats, though, was something special.

When the first play from scrimmage is a Candace Ferrett strip sack that gets you to the five, and the second is a touchdown run from Zamadi Ayana, you start to think it might be a good day. When the third is an Abram Fairbanks pick six, you might really be having a good time. Up 14-0 with literally under a minute having passed in regulation, the Sabers played ball control all day - the problem with that is, you hand the ball to Ayana with virtually no downside 35 times. If you hand Ayana the ball 35 times, people get tired, and he scores a bunch of touchdowns.

That was the start of the best rushing performance of the 2030s for the RFL, and one of the best in its history overall - Zamadi Ayana absolutely eviscerated the Sabercats, taking a nice 35 handoffs and ripping off 231 yards and four touchdowns as they got more and more sick of tackling the a young man who's already tired of not contending in the RFL playoffs.

Unfortunately, the Sabers were nothing if not inconsistent - the Balafre Bootleggers destroyed them 30-0, some speculate that it may be because of Ayana's heavy workload on short rest, but regardless, they couldn't get anything going, and would finish the season at 8-8. That said, Ayana showed he's ready to go - he improved massively off his rookie numbers, carrying the ball 350 times for 1,680 yards and a league-leading 18 touchdown runs. If this team can focus on getting him some help on offense, they'll be nigh-unstoppable next season.

But of course! We can't forget about the Steamers - they looked awesome. Kualu Luani and Strömberg are quickly proving to be a tandem made in heaven - they won a second consecutive division title and 12 games, scoring a nice 22 points per game, but it was their defense that shone - they allowed just 172 points on the campaign, easily the best in the league this season as Kasper Ulvestad went on an absolute tear- he'd lead the league in both sacks (15.5) and forced fumbles (7).

Memphis Steamers: 12-4
Apollotown Sabers: 9-7
Nashville Sabercats: 8-8
Indianapolis Hogs: 7-9

And Last But Not Least, The Division From Hell: The Ranorian Heartland

Mariana Tigers
Balafre Bootleggers
Berlin Snow Bears
Ranoria City Falcons

The reigning conference champions in the Mariana Tigers. The 2033 champion Berlin Snow Bears. The ornery Balafre Bootleggers, and the people fielding the RFL's best wideout ever and best quarterback currently in the Ranoria City Falcons! Man, who made these divisions?

So listen, first thing's first - props to QB Gracelyn Jackson of the Snow Bears. She made some big strides this season along with fellow 2nd year player Dustin van Halfensen. The team scored over 26 ppg this season, up significantly from a year ago. With a veritable arsenal in second-year Chromatik Demitrius St Pierre and veteran Rachel Klein at wideout, Dustin van Halfensen at Tight end, and Gauge Lawson still using the minor he got in ass-kicking from EVU to its fullest, this is one of the best offenses in the league. Carolyn Bray continues to be a steady corner, and Pharoah Akins makes a nice duo at IDL with Dominick Ford. Throw in Charles Raleigh at the other corner spot, and they continue to be a threat every season. They'd win ten games for the second straight season.

The Balafre Bootleggers won nine games although veteran QB Mason Warford, after his revenge season following the Snow Bears releasing him, has taken a significant step back - he tossed 21 interceptions to lead the league. And surprisingly, the Mariana Tigers made it two straight seasons where at least one of the championship game participants didn't make the playoffs - despite strong running from 2035 OROY Thomas Fantikos and QB Zachary Stevens actually winning a second relief effort in two seasons (mind you, he threw the ball five times), they just ended up as the odd man out in a loaded division. They've got a solid core though, with Lonnie Moran playing well enough at left tackle, Dhruv Valentine still contributing in his advanced age, and Valantin Pruitt coming into his own at corner - just wasn't their year, same as the Falcons a season ago.

Oh right, those guys. We've learned that Sarai Michelle Bradwyn Gwenderyn does not like missing the playoffs. Hell, maybe she was having some PTSD since it came after winning a whole championship the season prior, much like her NSCF 24 championship as a junior being followed by missing the playoffs as a senior. So anyway, we'll let the scores tell the story.

Mariana Tigers 24–35 Ranoria City Falcons
Sierraville Farmers 6–47 Ranoria City Falcons
New Quebec Fighters 15–38 Ranoria City Falcons
Ranoria City Falcons 53–19 Berlin Snow Bears
Ranoria City Falcons 40–24 Victorsville Hurricane
Port Kruger Phalanx 0–39 Ranoria City Falcons
Balafre Bootleggers 20–36 Ranoria City Falcons
Ranoria City Falcons 35–13 Nashville Sabercats
Ranoria City Falcons 53–9 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts
Ranoria City Falcons 40–17 Mariana Tigers

For the first ten weeks of the season, not only were the Ranoria City Falcons undefeated, but they didn't let anyone get within two scores. They routinely scored over 40 points and cracked 50 twice.

Then came the Highport Hawks - an old rival of Gwenderyn's in Byron Joseph piloting their offense. The Hawks have bested the Falcons with a simple strategy before and they employed it again here - dictate the pace, force them to play a style of game that they aren't used to. Byron Joseph has taken significant strides as a passer, but he only threw the ball nine times in this one, milking the clock, giving a Robert Lawrence led defense time to recover, and leaning on Herman Whitworth. Robert Lawrence - who's already a playoff legend in his own right, had a monster day. He only recorded half a sack, but his pressure kept Gwenderyn off balance and forced her to improvise more often than she liked. With even a three-and-out taking more than a minute off the clock, the Falcons couldn't get in rhythm, the score even at 13 in the final moments with the ball in Joseph's hands. The Hawks had been creative as well - going run-first against the likes of Jere Rinaldi and Mi Hyeon-Park was a bold strategy and Herman Whitworth certainly hadn't had his best day at under 4 yards per carry. Much of their production had leaned on outside runs, scheming offensive linemen free to get them to the second level and limit those two linebackers.

When he did throw though, the Falcons inability to solve their pass rush problems meant he had been able to pick up big chunks, and his last throw of the day did just that. He dropped a dime on William Carey for a 35 yarder, and that would do it 20-13.

Exciting, sure, whatever. They followed it up with a potential championship preview against the Fiston Redwolves...and eviscerated them. Jack Hoy was introduced to Park and Rinaldi and Gwenderyn lit them up in a 51-23 dogwalking that Proko and Gideon Kearse probably have nightmares about. After her first RFL title, Gwenderyn made it clear she wanted to beat Drawkland in the World Bowl - that seems to have carried over against a Drawkian laden team.

The Falcons would only have one more close game this season, and that came against the Berlin Snow Bears in Berlin.

It started with a shocker - Carolyn Bray picked off Sarai Gwenderyn on the opening drive to steal a possession early, and the Snow Bears got it on the 49 yard line. Effectively starting both halves with the ball was a huge advantage, and this team new they needed every one of those they could get. Gauge Lawson got clotheslined by Jere Rinaldi, then Gauge Lawson bowled over Jere Rinaldi, then Gracelyn Jackson hit Dustin van Halfensen on a corner route. Halfensen trucked a safety straight out of the field of play, then tried to stiff arm Mi-Hyeon Park when she caught up to him, their brief hand fight ending with him being knocked out of bounds but not to the ground. The former Governor mimicked an elephant trunk with his arms, then jogged back to the sideline as the crowd got into it.

Why not ride the hot hand? Two plays later, Jackson hit him in the end zone for a score. Seven-zip, Snow Bears. When big Dominick Ford pushed SMBG into the waiting arms of Keeyan Brandt on third down, suddenly, things were looking good. This time it was Gauge Lawson running it in, and it'd be 13-0 after Jere Rinaldi leapt over the line to block the PAT.

But anyway, you didn't think Gwenderyn would stay down all day did you?

Despite the poor start, she scored a touchdown on the ensuing drive, running in after bouncing off an out-of-reach tackle attempt from cornerback Charles Raleigh. The half would end 20-13 in favor of the Snow Bears, and they made sure to capitalize on a second half starting with the ball - Gauge Lawson notched his second touchdown of the game, making it 27-13 and suddenly, this game seemed out of reach if only momentarily. After the Falcons drove down the the Snow Bear 40, Alessandra Mio found herself covered for once, and Gwenderyn checked down to their second-year second round steal wideout Constantina Perrier, a RAC merchant and a big body to bring down. Carolyn Bray couldn't quite get off of Mio's inspired block, and Perrier only needed to break one tackle to take that one to the house.

Punts were exchanged, although Charles Raleigh nearly came down with a second interception at one point, and the Snow Bears survived, but sometimes playing the Falcons is like holding a train at the top of the hill. Trains are really heavy, even for snow bears, and eventually you give up an inch. But then its further down the hill and its heavier. And then it just gets worse. Somehow, someway, the best quarterback in the league found the best wideout in the league's history for a 53 yard score that broke this thing open, bringing it to 27 all. Berlin answered though, with Gracelyn Jackson playing smart, not panicking, and picking her shots. The second year player has beaten Gwenderyn before and she knew that if that was going to happen, she had to trust her teammates. They settled for three, taking the lead late, and waited.

The Falcons, likewise, could only muster a field goal on the last drive with this thing coming to a close. When the Snow Bears tried to run Gauge Lawson into field goal range though, disaster struck. Jere Rinaldi broke through the line and got him just as he was taking the handoff, a seven yard loss. On third and forever, Jackson was forced to pass, and Mi-Hyeon Park read her like a book. The pass was a bit short too, and Dustin van Halfensen was left grasping at air for a ball that he expected to be there.

She handed the ball politely to the ref, and shot a thumbs up to her quarterback, who reciprocated. And some poor Snow Bears fan on twii.tur's thoughts just before she took the first snap of that first drive were as accurate as it gets.

@TonyLovesTheSnowBears Can't even watch man, I've seen this story too many times.#FeelsBadMan

Sarai Gwenderyn looked every bit of her surgical self, going 4/5 and capping off the drive with a touchdown to who else but Alessandra Mio. The Falcons took a knee afterwards, as regulation was over, and called it a day.

But one more moment we'd like to highlight - Sarai Gwenderyn finished the season with 51 touchdown passes, second most in the history of the Ranorian Football League. Against the Balafre Bootleggers, up 25-16 with the ball in the Bootlegger red zone, she had a chance to tie John Garrett's mark for 52. Jack Halifax even sent the offense out in formation. Instead, SMBG audibled to a knee, and let the clock run out.

"I'm here to win games, not pad stats," she said at the postgame interview, "If I'm going to break that record, it won't happen in an already decided game. I'm a better sport than that."

Ranoria City Falcons: 15-1
Berlin Snow Bears: 10-6
Balafre Bootleggers: 9-7
Mariana Tigers: 7-9

Overall League Standings

                                Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
 1 Ranoria City Falcons          16  15  1  607 270 +337    0.938
 2 Memphis Steamers              16  12  4  355 172 +183    0.750
 3 Highport Hawks                16  12  4  474 343 +131    0.750
 4 Rouyotte Aurora Knights       16  11  5  440 310 +130    0.688
 5 Fiston Redwolves              16  10  6  492 308 +184    0.625
 6 Brittanny Walruses            16  10  6  377 282 +95    0.625
 7 Yellowknife Wraiths           16  10  6  340 252 +88    0.625
 8 Berlin Snow Bears             16  10  6  430 364 +66    0.625
 9 Eglise Mountaineers           16  10  6  295 239 +56    0.625
10 Fermete Marauders             16   9  7  358 238 +120    0.562
11 Balafre Bootleggers           16   9  7  388 345 +43    0.562
12 Apollotown Sabers             16   9  7  284 260 +24    0.562
13 Ranoria City Silver           16   9  7  285 278  +7    0.562
14 New Quebec Fighters           16   8  8  358 314 +44    0.500
15 Dietrich Dynamos              16   8  8  312 286 +26    0.500
16 Lafayette Crusaders           16   8  8  313 293 +20    0.500
17 Victorsville Hurricane        16   8  8  307 309  −2    0.500
18 Pittsburgh Ironmen            16   8  8  265 283 −18    0.500
19 Nashville Sabercats           16   8  8  258 340 −82    0.500
20 Mariana Tigers                16   7  9  348 327 +21    0.438
   Richardson Fenrirs            16   7  9  327 306 +21    0.438
22 Halifax Blizzard              16   7  9  232 262 −30    0.438
23 Indianapolis Hogs             16   7  9  182 253 −71    0.438
24 Vancouver Yeti                16   7  9  242 344 −102    0.438
25 Edmunton Eagles               16   6 10  257 417 −160    0.375
26 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts  16   6 10  289 461 −172    0.375
27 Herot Paladins                16   5 11  319 411 −92    0.312
28 Munich Thrashers              16   5 11  230 346 −116    0.312
29 Menagerie Pioneers            16   4 12  176 320 −144    0.250
30 Port Kruger Phalanx           16   4 12  174 388 −214    0.250
31 Sierraville Farmers           16   4 12  208 463 −255    0.250
32 Madison Gladiators            16   3 13  192 330 −138    0.188

*I'm not organizing these by tiebreakers - these were what we used. Each division winner then two wild cards from each conference make the playoffs.

Playoffs
First Round Bye
Division Winner, Home Playoff Game
Wild Card

Ranorian Conference
                                Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Ranoria City Falcons          16  15  1  607 270 +337    0.938
2 Highport Hawks                16  12  4  474 343 +131    0.750
3 Memphis Steamers              16  12  4  355 172 +183    0.750
4 Lafayette Crusaders           16   8  8  313 293 +20     0.500
5 Berlin Snow Bears             16  10  6  430 364 +66     0.625
6 Balafre Bootleggers           16   9  7  388 345 +43     0.562

National Conference
                                Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Rouyotte Aurora Knights       16  11  5  440 310 +130    0.688
 2 Fiston Redwolves              16  10  6  492 308 +184  0.625
 3 Brittanny Walruses            16  10  6  377 282 +95    0.625
 4 Yellowknife Wraiths           16  10  6  340 252 +88    0.625
5 Ranoria City Silver           16   9  7  285 278  +7    0.562
 6 Eglise Mountaineers           16  10  6  295 239 +56    0.625

[Ranoria]

OOC: Notes
1- The Ranorian football league doesn’t employ fifth year options or franchise tags. This gives players significantly more leverage in negotiations and leads to more player movement.
2- all those rules favoring the passing game - those aren’t a thing here. Hard hitting safeties and linebackers are at a premium, making the middle of the field a dangerous place to throw, roughing the passer calls are few and far between, and defensive backs are often given a bit of leeway with their physicality prior to the catch.
3- Because of this, expect significantly lower average passing numbers than in the NFL. In 70+ seasons, the RFL has had five 4,700+ yard seasons, two 5,000+ yard passing seasons, and seven 40+ passing TD seasons. By comparison, there have been 15 5,000+ yard seasons in the NFL and 19 NFL seasons of 40+ passing touchdowns. Please keep this in mind if your players - particularly QBs, WRs, or TEs, aren’t having the production you’d expect.
4- also as a result of this, running backs take on a greater role and the average rushing numbers are higher. 2,000+ yards is still a rarity.
5- I'm not committed to any more heavily RP'd seasons, but the league will continue to run as long as I have the currently in place foreign players at the very least

6- Few changes last season! First - we've introduced divisions! I say we because I wouldn't have been able to do this without South Newlandia, huge thanks to him there. Everyone's favorite elephant is crucial and indispensable to the scoring of the RFL now. Two teams were taken out of the league - the Lorcondan National Team and Calgary Stampede - to accommodate this. No foreign (or even notable Ranorian) players were on those teams.

With that said, we've moved to a more familiar format for everyone - four divisions per conference, with each division champion and two wild cards from each conference making the playoffs.

Ranorian Conference

Ranorian Heartland
Mariana Tigers
Berlin Snow Bears
Balafre Bootleggers
Ranoria City Falcons

Ranorian Central
Memphis Steamers
Indianapolis Hogs
Nashville Sabercats
Apollotown Sabers

Ranorian Coastal
Highport Hawks
Sierraville Famers
Munich Thrashers
Victorsville Hurricane

Ranorian North
Lafayette Crusaders
Halifax Blizzard
Madison Gladiators
Vancouver Yeti

National Conference

National North
Rouyoutte Aurora Knights
Eglise Mountaineers
Herot Paladins
Fermete Marauders

National Central
Ranoria City Silver
Pittsburgh Ironmen
Dietrich Dynamos
Richardson Fenrirs

National West
Yellowknife Wraiths
Brittany Walruses
Menagerie Pioneers
Edmunton Eagles

National Coastal
Fiston Redwolves
North Ashialand Dreadnaughts
New Quebec Fighters
Port Kruger Phalanx

1: Ranoria City Falcons
2: Fiston Redwolves
3: Rouyoutte Aurora Knights
4: Pittsburgh Ironmen
5: Berlin Snow Bears
6: Fermete Marauders
7: Memphis Steamers
8: Richardson Fenrirs
9: Highport Hawks
10: Ranoria City Silver
11: Apollotown Sabers
12: Brittany Walruses
13: Balafre Bootleggers
14: Mariana Tigers
15: Dietrich Dynamos
16: Munich Thrashers

RFL 2036 Playoffs - Bettor's Paradise




Aurora Knights wideout Isaak Rodgriguez during these playoffs

Overall League Standings

                                Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
 1 Ranoria City Falcons          16  15  1  607 270 +337    0.938
 2 Memphis Steamers              16  12  4  355 172 +183    0.750
 3 Highport Hawks                16  12  4  474 343 +131    0.750
 4 Rouyotte Aurora Knights       16  11  5  440 310 +130    0.688
 5 Fiston Redwolves              16  10  6  492 308 +184    0.625
 6 Brittanny Walruses            16  10  6  377 282 +95    0.625
 7 Yellowknife Wraiths           16  10  6  340 252 +88    0.625
 8 Berlin Snow Bears             16  10  6  430 364 +66    0.625
 9 Eglise Mountaineers           16  10  6  295 239 +56    0.625
10 Fermete Marauders             16   9  7  358 238 +120    0.562
11 Balafre Bootleggers           16   9  7  388 345 +43    0.562
12 Apollotown Sabers             16   9  7  284 260 +24    0.562
13 Ranoria City Silver           16   9  7  285 278  +7    0.562
14 New Quebec Fighters           16   8  8  358 314 +44    0.500
15 Dietrich Dynamos              16   8  8  312 286 +26    0.500
16 Lafayette Crusaders           16   8  8  313 293 +20    0.500
17 Victorsville Hurricane        16   8  8  307 309  −2    0.500
18 Pittsburgh Ironmen            16   8  8  265 283 −18    0.500
19 Nashville Sabercats           16   8  8  258 340 −82    0.500
20 Mariana Tigers                16   7  9  348 327 +21    0.438
   Richardson Fenrirs            16   7  9  327 306 +21    0.438
22 Halifax Blizzard              16   7  9  232 262 −30    0.438
23 Indianapolis Hogs             16   7  9  182 253 −71    0.438
24 Vancouver Yeti                16   7  9  242 344 −102    0.438
25 Edmunton Eagles               16   6 10  257 417 −160    0.375
26 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts  16   6 10  289 461 −172    0.375
27 Herot Paladins                16   5 11  319 411 −92    0.312
28 Munich Thrashers              16   5 11  230 346 −116    0.312
29 Menagerie Pioneers            16   4 12  176 320 −144    0.250
30 Port Kruger Phalanx           16   4 12  174 388 −214    0.250
31 Sierraville Farmers           16   4 12  208 463 −255    0.250
32 Madison Gladiators            16   3 13  192 330 −138    0.188

*I'm not organizing these by tiebreakers - these were what we used. Each division winner then two wild cards from each conference make the playoffs.

Playoffs
First Round Bye
Division Winner, Home Playoff Game
Wild Card

Ranorian Conference
                                Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Ranoria City Falcons          16  15  1  607 270 +337    0.938
2 Highport Hawks                16  12  4  474 343 +131    0.750
3 Memphis Steamers              16  12  4  355 172 +183    0.750
4 Lafayette Crusaders           16   8  8  313 293 +20     0.500
5 Berlin Snow Bears             16  10  6  430 364 +66     0.625
6 Balafre Bootleggers           16   9  7  388 345 +43     0.562

National Conference
                                Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Rouyotte Aurora Knights       16  11  5  440 310 +130    0.688
 2 Fiston Redwolves              16  10  6  492 308 +184  0.625
 3 Brittanny Walruses            16  10  6  377 282 +95    0.625
 4 Yellowknife Wraiths           16  10  6  340 252 +88    0.625
5 Ranoria City Silver           16   9  7  285 278  +7    0.562
 6 Eglise Mountaineers           16  10  6  295 239 +56    0.625

Wild Card Weekend!

We're not sure how the Mountaineers made it this far. Force feeding Calista Weathers isn't the worst strategy in the world, but it isn't a conventionally winning one. But they were up against a team with an incredibly simplistic offense. "They call it exotic smashmouth," an announcer said during this one, "There's nothing exotic about it! It's Roland King behind Uzziah Amondi!"

The Mountaineers defense was the story for much of this game, stifling a run first attack much thanks to EVU grad DT Deandre Kelly helping his team to establish a thin 9-6 lead going into the final possession.

Unfortunately, one man can only do so much - Uzziah Amondi overpowered him on the biggest and last play of the game, overpowering the gap-penetrating Kelly and never letting his athleticism shine as he wrangled the man who'd wrecked their game, and Roland King front flipped and spiked the ball upon crossing the line - onto the next.

Brittany Walruses 13–9 Eglise Mountaineers

After a brutal regular season, the Silver almost looked like they were playing on easy mode against a Wraiths team that's really been depleted the past few seasons. Between losing the best player in their franchise's history in DE Zach Skinner, who served for a long time as Angelo Gordon's running mate on the Krauts and his once-apparent successor in Yeezie Ryan Blake, their making the playoffs was a miracle in and of itself.

Rowenna Hastroff ran wild behind Pomeroy Lockhart and Izaya Hanzo, ending the day with 121 yards and a trio of scores to make it pretty.

Ranoria City Silver 48–13 Yellowknife Wraiths

Memphis Steamers 48–10 Balafre Bootleggers

Can't say this wasn't satisfying to see.Bootlegger Mason Warford, a turncoat quarterback who used to take snaps for the division rival Berlin Snow Bears, absolutely collapsed as his 30 years seemed to catch up to him all at once. Bootlegger wideout Jean-Christophe Provost, who'd had a dominant regular season, was all of a sudden rendered helpless, watching as Kasper Ulvestad continued his season for the ages, sacking Mason Warford three times to spearhead a defensive effort that resulted in a total of six along with four interceptions. Oh, and offensively? Kualu Luani and Max Strömberg continued their playoff dominance, hooking up ten times for 173 yards and two touchdowns - Luani's been good, but with Alessandra Mio aging, is Strömberg the heir apparent to the title of the RFL's WR1?

With seven South Newlandians on the roster, we may as well start calling the Snow Bears the Snow Ellies. But anyway, they were pretty much regarded as championship contenders - winning ten games in the toughest division in the league is no joke, especially with one of those teams on a historic tear. Meanwhile, Lafayette was widely regarded as a laughingstock winner of the weakest division maybe in the sport at a professional level.

So Keeyan Brandt was pretty much eaten alive by Goliath Castellan in this one - no surprise there, Castellan is very large at 6'10" and 360+ pounds. Size wise, he's closer to an elephant than anyone on the field. However, the actual elephants were more than able to make up the difference. There were a lot of field goals, second year QB Gracelyn Jackson had a lot of third down incompletions and Gauge Lawson was often stuffed on third and short, but slowly they managed to rack up field goals. Rachel Klein was pivotal here, snagging three balls that got the team inside kicker Divyansh Carrasco's range throughout the contest.

The dagger though, came from none other than Dustin van Halfensen - he snagged a big gainer to get the team inside the four, and then the team made the most strategic move they could have made - hand it off to Gauge Lawson, the former Red Elephant, right off the hip of the NT Elephant, van Halfensen. They scored a touchdown, in case you're curious, and Carolyn Bray snagged an interception to seal it and earn one more shot at the Ranoria City Falcons. Despite going 0-2 against the juggernaut, they had them on the ropes for three and a half quarters in their second matchup - can they replicate that magic again?

Lafayette Crusaders 12–19 Berlin Snow Bears

Ranorian Conference
                                Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Ranoria City Falcons          16  15  1  607 270 +337    0.938
2 Highport Hawks                16  12  4  474 343 +131    0.750
3 Memphis Steamers              16  12  4  355 172 +183    0.750
5 Berlin Snow Bears             16  10  6  430 364 +66     0.625

National Conference
                                Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Rouyotte Aurora Knights       16  11  5  440 310 +130    0.688
 2 Fiston Redwolves              16  10  6  492 308 +184  0.625
 3 Brittanny Walruses            16  10  6  377 282 +95    0.625
5 Ranoria City Silver           16   9  7  285 278  +7    0.562

The Quarterfinals!

This was the game to watch without a doubt. The 10-6 Snow Ellies against the 15-1 Snow Bears, division rivalry matchup, a combined three championships in the past four seasons between them. A young exciting quarterback-receiver duo in Gracelyn Jackson and Dustin van Halfensen against an established legendary one in Sarai Gwenderyn and Alessandra Mio. Throw in a linebacking tandem that is not only the best in the RFL, but potentially the best in the world playing for the Iron Legion in Mi-Hyeon Park and Jere Rinaldi against a former MVP runner up in running back Gauge Lawson and perennial all-stars WR Rachel Klein and CB Carolyn Bray for Berlin - and you've got one hell of a matchup.

Starting with the ball, the Snow Ellies looked to be on a stampede - Snow Bears WR Rachel Klein snagged a touchdown over Falcons ILB Jere Rinaldi - in his defense, he's more of a run stopper - and Berlin CB Charles Raleigh managed to break up a third down pass intended for the Falcons WR2 in Constantina Perrier. Much like in their second game of the regular season, they took an early lead, and held it for awhile - this offense was humming. Dustin van Halfensen was continuing to stake his claim as the best tight end in the league, Rachel Klein was locked into Alessandra Mio's trademark double move, and Gracelyn Jackson was matching Gwenderyn blow for blow.

Then the fourth quarter happened. All tied at 36 coming in, things just fell apart. Gauge Lawson, who'd gotten the better of Rinaldi for most of this game in a matchup of bruisers, got a bit too aggressive on a cut, left some air between his body and the ball, and a guy(monster more like) as seasoned as Jere Rinaldi acted on muscle memory, putting his helmet straight through the ball at which point Mi-Hyeon Park, in perfect sync with him, scooped and scored. Park's impact was felt later too, as she audibled into a cover 2 shell on third and long, effectively eliminating the vertical threat of the Snow Bears attack while she herself locked up Dustin van Halfensen. Sarai Gwenderyn hooked up with Alessandra Mio six plays later, and after a failure to convert on fourth down, she made it 57-36 - the rest was garbage time.

Snow Bears, for as good as they look and as elephantastic of a move it appears to have been for their GM to move on from Mason Warford to draft Gracelyn Jackson and Dustin van Halfensen, drop three to a division rival in two straight seasons. Last go-round, it was to the Mariana Tigers, who went on to lose in the championship and went 7-9 this season. This year, it was to the Falcons. The Heartland is a merciless division, and as successful as they've been, they'll have to find a way to be better in it to get back to the top of the mountain.

Ranoria City Falcons 57–36 Berlin Snow Bears

Kualu Luani and Strömberg fought the good fight, hooking up for another pair of touchdowns in this one - but against a resurgent Hawks side, it wasn't nearly enough. Highport ran all over the field on them as Kasper Ulvestad was rendered a moot point through a combination of running towards him (it sounds disrespectful, but it's generally your best bet against speedy edge rushers who can otherwise catch a runner from behind) and quick passes. Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth scored 54 points and there wasn't much left to tell of this one - they established their lead early and were never in a ton of trouble.

The Highport Hawks advance and earn a trip to Ranoria City - renewing an old rivalry between many of the Kohnhead and Chromatik players on this roster. It also means the Falcons will have to fight through the only team with the distinguishment of beating them during this campaign - although one could also argue that it gives them an opportunity to avenge what could have been the second perfect regular season in RFL history.

Highport Hawks 54–30 Memphis Steamers

The Aurora Knights made a lot of headlines two offseasons ago when they made sweeping changes to the roster. Ballast Queen, a longtime standout quarterback, paired with two dynamic wideouts in Isaak Rodriguez and now second-year Saint Kanye man Josh Laney-Seymour, promised to bring the new-age passing attack to an RFL that is sorely lacking in it. Albatross Vergol provided a potent edge threat while Clancy Gluber and Alder King formed a formidable linebacker core. They didn't go the distance last season, and the buzz is dying down - they have to deliver the championship that this new team was built for.

In their path? The resurgent Ranoria City Silver. Led by a standout runner in Rowenna Hastroff, their pass rush was the focus of their game plan - let Jill Lia and Nicole Manstrom harry Ballast Queen and hope that a Vi Nia-Kaid-led secondary could take advantage. They slowed the juggernaut down, but ultimately fell just short as their own offense was forced to settle for field goals again and again, scoring just one touchdown to two for the Aurora Knights, the final coming courtesy of second year man Josh Laney-Seymour.

Queen & Crew survive and advance - they'll get either the Walruses or the Redwolves in the conference championship.

Rouyotte Aurora Knights 20–19 Ranoria City Silver

The Uzziah Amondi against a team that's absolutely owned the conference since Lane Proudfoot's signing. The Redwolves were almost always good, but when they got Lane Proudfoot following a down year, a quality roster finally had a quality quarterback. They've been to three championship games in the past four seasons, winning the most recent. With arguably the best player in the game coming off the edge in Gideon Kearse and a freak of a safety in Proko roaming behind, it wasn't the best matchup for the Walruses. Walruses QB Jake Dobbs never found his footing - with just 13 pass attempts, he was sacked five times and threw a pair of interceptions, hamstringing an offense that had a lot of trouble overall - Uzziah Amondi is only one man, and he usually didn't get a piece of Gideon Kearse, who led the team's defensive effort. Jack Hoy controlled the clock in this.

When reporters questioned Proudfoot - who had just twenty passes - if his at times limited role in this offense since Hoy's arrival frustrated him, he laughed at them, "Are you kidding? The more carries he takes, the more efficiently I'm getting paid. I want more dollars per pass attempt, baby."

Notably, not a single team with a bye lost in the divisional round.

Fiston Redwolves 16–13 Brittany Walruses

Ranorian Conference
                                Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Ranoria City Falcons          16  15  1  607 270 +337    0.938
2 Highport Hawks                16  12  4  474 343 +131    0.750

National Conference
                                Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Rouyotte Aurora Knights       16  11  5  440 310 +130    0.688
2 Highport Hawks                16  12  4  474 343 +131    0.750

Conference Championships

A rivalry renewed - the fanfare for this one was massive in Ranoria City as the Hawks' core Byron Joseph, Herman Whitworth, and Robert Lawrence led their team out to a cacophony of boos, with Joseph responding by tapping his ear as if he couldn't hear them.

Gwenderyn, meanwhile, was met with the praise due to the city's hero - and she proved that she's just that once again on the field.

For all the hype, this one was never close. The Falcons did the same thing to the Hawks that they had done to everyone else this season aside from that hiccup of a first matchup. Gwenderyn connected with Alessandra Mio for an early touchdown and Constantina Perrier for another to take a 14-0 lead by halftime with the Hawks unable to get anything going offensively.

They'd tack on a pair of field goals late, but with a pair of interceptions of Byron Joseph - surprising given his generally aversion to turnovers this season - it was never in doubt. The Falcons cruised to a victory and their second championship appearance in three seasons.

Ranoria City Falcons 24–6 Highport Hawks

If that was a cruise, this was an execution.

Imagine shelling out big money from one of the RFL's wealthiest ownership groups, selling out, changing your team name and building a new stadium that rivals any in the known world, to try and take your football team to the next level, just for it to fall flat on its face.

Listen, Jack Hoy was literally doing the chicken dance in the third quarter after a 63 yard touchdown run that added onto an already egregious score. Lane Proudfoot - when they came out to halftime - made a dramatic affair of warming up by handing off the ball instead of passing prior to the third quarter. Gideon Kearse and Proko looked angrier after each of their combined four sacks, but they're scary and don't count.

Anyway yeah, Rouyoutte got beat up, wedgied, swirlied, and then tossed to the side like a teddy bear getting swapped out for the backup you didn't know your parents bought for you. The championship matchup is between the two likeliest fledgling dynasties in the league, the winners of the last two championships - who's coming out on top is anyone's guess. Ballast Queen looked absolutely dejected on the sideline by the time the fourth quarter rolled around. For a guy who was hailed as a generational talent coming out of high school as the top ranked recruit at quarterback and had a prolific career at Stoneshore University, it's been tough. As the franchise guy for the Nashville Sabercats, he was always in the top five to eight or so quarterbacks in the league, but they were a perennial playoff team, never a true championship threat. Rouyoutte was much in the same boat - a balanced, playoff contender team looking to get to the next level by bringing in an elite quarterback. Their marriage created a lot of buzz, but all of that excitement is gone now - they're more exciting, more explosive, and in a much prettier dome, but they're still not quite ready to reach the threshold.

You've also gotta wonder if wideout Isaak Rodgriguez - the best Ranorian wideout in the RFL, is regretting defecting from the Redwolves to the Aurora Knights over a million per year. Probably not though, he's a guy who's more concerned with stats and cash.

But they're not the story anymore.

Jack Hoy and Lane Proudfoot, meet Alessandra Mio and Sarai Gwenderyn. Jere Rinaldi and Mi-Hyeon Park? Answered in Gideon Kearse and Prokopios Vortigern Rooijakkers. Wideouts Calvin Hale of the Fiston Redwolves and Constantina Perrier of the Ranoria City Falcons both represent secondary weapons who are national team caliber players. Both teams started the season atop most power rankings, and people who betted on the most likely championship matchup are probably pretty happy with themselves right now. Game on.

Rouyotte Aurora Knights 3–36 Fiston Redwolves

Regular Season Awards:

Offensive Rookie Of The Year: RT Tony Yamato, Mariana Tigers [RAN]

Second year in a row the Tigers have drafted the OROY! Yamato was a first round right tackle who helped give a run-first offense a little more variety, pairing with LT Lonnie Mohran to form a nice pair of bookends for the Tigers, who scored about 3 more points per game this season than last despite slipping from the playoffs at 7-9. Yamato allowed just one sack on the campaign, played 94% of offensive snaps, was hit with only one holding call, and started all 16 games for a Tigers squad that looks to be right back in the thick of things next season.

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Halifax Blizzard DE Noah Daniels [RAN]

Look, the Halifax Blizzard don't have a lot to look forward to usually. But after drafting Daniels in the top ten, maybe they've got a bright spot. Daniels racked up ten quarterback sacks, fifteen tackles for loss, and three forced fumbles to spearhead an incredible turnaround on defense - the Blizzard went from allowing 23 points per game in 2035 to just over 16 this season and his impact as an immediate all star was a huge part of that. He's got a bright future, and he's the kind of player this sorry franchise can build around in hopes of changing their fortune.

Offensive Player of the Year: Ranoria City Falcons WR Alessandra Mio [CMT]* 2

So we were pretty sure Alessandra Mio would begin to slow down now in her 12th pro season. Outside of a spike two years ago, her numbers have been on a steady downtrend - typical with age. She's still a high-end WR1 and no one has really been able make a legitimate case to challenge her as the best wideout in the league now, much less in history.

Anyway, Alessandra Mio previously won offensive player of the year in 2030, when the Falcons won their first championship since the Art Torrent days. She set the RFL record for receiving yards in a season with 1,703. This time, she was the benefactor of one of the most outrageous season-long passing performances in the league's history. She entered the season with two significant receiving records in the RFL ranks that she didn't own - single season receptions (112 by Kieran Kweo-Atkison in 2029) and touchdowns in a season (17 by Johnny Farmer in 2029, when they were teammates on the Dietrich Dynamos).

She didn't quite break the catches mark, but she tied the legendary Kweo-Atkison at 112. She did, however, shatter the receiving touchdown mark with 20 flat. Alessandra Mio's lost a bit of her speed, but she has a game that ages well - a big bodied wideout with nasty double moves on a variety of routes and perfect hands. She was a dream in the red zone, snagging 31 of 33 targets from inside the 20 this season. Throw in 1,204 yards...yeah this was a no brainer. Funnily enough though, her #2 wideout actually led the team in receiving - Constantina Perrier, who also got OPOY votes, racked up over fourteen hundred yards this season. She continues to create more and more separation as the career leader in all three major receiving stats as well - perhaps this was a last-gasp effort, but Alessandra Mio will not be ceding the crown quite yet.

*2nd OPOY Award

Defensive Player Of the Year - Memphis Steamers DE Kasper Ulvestad [VAL]

NSCF Most Outstanding Player, NSCF Champion, and now a Ranorian Football League Defensive Player of thhe Year. Kasper Ulvestad has lived up to the hype and then some. Ulvestad was an absolute nightmare to defend, leading the Steamers to be the best defense in the league in terms of both points allowed (172) and yards per game. The next best defense, the Fermete Marauders, allowed 238 points - a difference of more than a field goal per game between the 1st and 2nd best units. And he was the cornerstone of that unit, combining an incredible motor and ferocity with absolute discipline and uncanny speed for someone at his position to hold the standard this season for both sacks (16.5) and forced fumbles (7). In a league chock full of world-class players at the position like 2x DPOYs Gideon Kearse and Abram Fairbanks, Ulvestad beating them out in both of those significant stats and running away with this award is testament to his talent.

Ulvestad, who made his World Bowl debut with Valanora this season, only appears to be getting better. With the Steamers latched to Strömberg and Luani on the offensive side, Ulvestad represents the teeth of a defense that makes this team a true championship contender, having won 24 games in the past two regular seasons.

Footballer of the Year: Pittsburgh Ironmen DT Eden Park [QUE]

Eden Park is a nightmare on the football field, no doubt about it. The big-bodied bully is the stone wall around which the Ironmen defense flows, keeping star linebacker Kaiser Belfort free of any intruding offensive linemen - but hey, you can't be mean all the time, right?

Off the field, Park has made significant contributions to relief efforts following a catastrophic winter storm in Ranoria's northern territory Isguld, coordinating relief efforts and organizing several open-source accounting fundraisers to keep the project transparent and open. Many experts estimate that his efforts saved tens of thousands of lives after power outages and resulting food shortages could have had disastrous consequences otherwise.

RFL 2036 MVP:

Ranoria City Falcons Quarterback Sarai Gwenderyn [CMT] *3

Just like last season, there was never any doubt as to who would be the league MVP. If you can conflate three factors - best and most impactful player along with being on the best team, it's an easy vote. Throw in one of the most prolific seasons in the RFL's history and you might help your case a little bit.

We're going to give a little explanation to make it clear just how insane SMBG's season was. Unlike the GFLB, QFL, or other professional gridiron leagues on par with our own, passing isn't the easiest thing. In the history of the Ranorian Football League, five 4,700+ yard seasons, two 5,000+ yard passing seasons, and seven 40+ passing TD seasons. Those aren't exactly par for the course across the world, but they're not exactly shocking. Prior to this season, RFL has only ever had two passers break the five thousand yard threshold. Bo Callahan - the only man who can present the argument against John Garrett's claim to being the best QB in RFL history - at 5,050 set the mark in 2021, coming in a season where he openly admitted he was inspired by Garrett's prolific rookie season and wanted to prove he was still the best at the position.

Garrett set the passing touchdown record at 47 in 2023, but failed to even approach that threshold until almost a decade after Callahan's career year - when he rewrote the record books. In 2030, John Garrett passed for 5,227 yards and 52 touchdown passes against just 10 interceptions. He also led an offense that scored an RFL-record 593 points. Those were pretty much seen as unattainable marks - even if Sarai Gwenderyn's Falcons knocked them off in the playoffs.

Well, move over. Gwenderyn set a new high in passing yards - 5,274, and was just one shy of the passing touchdown mark at 51, although she explicitly avoided tying it in a decided ballgame in week 16.

"Even I was surprised," said second-year wideout Constantina Perrier, who was a major benefactor of those ridiculous totals, "I mean I appreciate humility and modesty, but we could've run it up on them and gotten her a bit more fluff on that passing record, and touchdowns to boot - instead she was content just riding it out. Pretty cool to see."

Moving on - her offense was even better than that 2030 Hogs team. They were the first unit in the league's history to break the 600 threshold - at 607 total, they scored just a hair under 38 points per game - a ridiculous feat in a vacuum, but in a Ranorian Football League who's rules favor the run game and defenses, it's just absurd. Throw in a meager eight interceptions and four rushing scores with a few hundred yards on the ground to boot, and Gwenderyn made a strong case to have posted the best quarterbacking season in Ranorian history. It helps that she was throwing to objectively the best wideout in RFL history - you got enough of a spiel on her already - but make no mistake, this team's success rides on the shoulders of SMBG. She's the best quarterback in the RFL, and now going into a second championship game in three seasons, she's on the verge of establishing a dynasty.

*3rd MVP award.

Fiston Redwolves vs Ranoria City Falcons @ The Elysium

The host venue of the most recent World Bowl, a stadium the Redwolves had actually just gotten done thrashing the resident populace's hopes and dreams in, would play hose to a matchup of teams with a championship pedigree. The last two MVP winners in Sarai Gwenderyn this season and Jack Hoy in 2035 and the last two championship teams - either the Redwolves would hold their crown for another calendar year, or the Falcons would finally have established themselves as a true dynasty.

Fiston won the toss and of course, Lane Proudfoot wanted the ball - along with fellow captains Prokopious Vortigern Rooijakkers and Jack Hoy, he towered over the Falcons'
representatives...and Gideon Kearse, his fellow Redwolf.

They made it all-to-clear what their game plan was - despite that 51-23 beatdown in week 12 that saw Hoy largely contained by Jere Rinaldi and Mi-Hyeon Park, they had their horse, and they were going to ride him. And it worked for now - Hoy carried the ball six times for 36 yards on that drive, broken up only by a quick strike from Proudfoot to Calvin Hale after which that sixth carry drove his team into the end zone to draw first blood.

Looking to answer, Sarai Gwenderyn looked to take a deep shot right off the jump and she found it - with Proko helping cover Alessandra Mio deep downfield, a classic dagger concept played out perfectly. Constantina Perrier caught the ball fifteen yards downfield and she took off, shedding the first tackler and tacking another thirty on before she was dragged out of bounds by Proko. It didn't take long after that. Gwenderyn took a hit from Kearse to connect with Mio for a seven yard touchdown, tying things up, or so they thought. Kearse would get one back immedietely, swatting down the PAT to hold onto a slim lead.

The Redwolves made their push to keep the scoring going, and settled for a field goal after Jere Rinaldi stopped Jack Hoy in his tracks on 3rd and 1 - too early to leave points on the board. They'd hold that 10-6 lead much thanks to their superstar at safety. The Falcons had the ball with just seconds to play in the half, and Sarai Gwenderyn launched it from the fifty. It was a prayer, a no-downside play, and Proko did manage to snag an interception, leveraging his game-changing length to out-muscle Mio in the end zone.

The Redwolves opened things up with a deep play action shot - they were a run-first team nowadays with Jack Hoy on the roster, but that makes it easy for other teams to forget that they've got a guy under center who posted three straight 4300+ yard seasons at one point in his still-young career. He'd launch a moonball, getting full extension on that Drawkian arm of his to connect with veteran wideout Calvin Hale a whopping sixty three yards downfield - a Winter Bowl record for air yards in a completed pass - they'd have been in striking distance without any RAC, but it was accurate enough that Hale only had to slow down a bit to snag the pass, and he was able to get a sloppy stiff-arm off to the Falcons' inept cornerback, giving him just enough space to sprint a few more yards and dive into the end zone - a total of 75 yards on one play to open up the second half.

At 17-6, the Redwolves had a good, but certainly not comfortable, lead against this team. They were reminded of that in short order. The Falcons offense took a gamble - after a Gwenderyn scramble got them to 4th and 1 inside the forty, they went for it. It's hard to keep this team from gaining one yard, or ten in four plays, and that held true here when a wide receiver screen to Constantina Perrier picked up six. Alessandra Mio was getting her catches, but the gameplan here was clearly to avoid Proko, who was shadowing the newly re-anointed offensive player of the year more often than not.

Their offense didn't quite get going yet - but it allowed them some momentum. The Falcons nailed a field goal to make it 17-9, and then after Jere Rinaldi hit-sticked a poor tight end into a fumble, they picked up twenty yards before stalling out to make it 17-12 less than a minute into the fourth quarter.

The Redwolves were far from done though. Jack Hoy picked up six yards on 3rd and 8, nearly blasting through a once-in-a-lifetime linebacker duo to get more, and he clearly wanted to go for it inside the fifteen, but their head coach held them back and took the three. Eight point lead, a sturdy offense that could milk the clock- they were in a good spot.

Sarai Gwenderyn started to mount a drive - first a drag to Perrier, then a post to Mio. Scramble for another first down, and finally, the Redwolves made an adjustment - Proko isn't just a safety, he's a weapon. They brought him down to the line of scrimmage opposite Gideon Kearse. The confusion on that first play paid dividends - Gwenderyn was under pressure the second she caught the snap, and tried to weave through the pocket to buy time away from the half-Drawkian only to be re-introduced to former teammate Gideon Kearse, who tore the ball from her hands in violent fashion.

Fortunately, it landed just inches away from her, and through a struggle Gwenderyn retained possession. Then on the next play, she made the wise decision to change the blocking scheme. Proko blitzed again, or looked like it, for two steps then turned in a hurry...right to where the ball was thrown. Proko made himself the first player to intercept SMBG in a Winter Bowl - impressive given its her third - and wheeled around the shocked offensive line, ball extended, all the way to the end zone.

The Cold Hill alumni spiked the ball in the end zone, reaching straight up to the goal posts and doing a muscle up on them, then stopped to wonder why no one was cheering.

There was a flag all the way back at the spot of the interception. Holding, defense. Sure, they still had the ball - but his seventy yards of glory? Gone in a heartbeat.

The Fiston offense unfortunately stalled out - with their emphasis on ball control, Mi-Hyeon Park had no trouble calling the perfect defense and Jere Rinaldi made the perfect spear - each got a TFL on Jack Hoy, who never had much of a chance on the three-and-out series.

This time, they weren't so lucky on defense. The Falcons avoided their prior mistake, identifying Proko wherever he was on the field and audibling several times to minimize his impact - Gideon Kearse got a sack and another hit likely as a result, but you can only account for so many generational talents at once. Gwenderyn found her second-year budding star in Constantina Perrier on a quick fade, leveraging her 6'5" frame to make it impossible to stop it. Suddenly they were within two, and HC Jack Halifax called for the conversion.

Kearse blew it up, knifing through defenders, and Proko was on Alessandra Mio like a hawk - but the Redwolves DC made the pressure of giving his defensive tackles 2-gap freedom on this one, and both took the B gap, leaving the a gaps wide open for Sarai Gwenderyn to dash through completely untouched for an easy score to tie everything up.

With things tied, there was a bit more to account for on the defensive side, and with momentum slipping away the Redwolves wanted to be aggressive. Proudfoot connected with Hale for the fifth time of the day as the veteran was having a monster day receiving, and Jack Hoy proceeded to pick up back-to-back first downs, his generational elusiveness combined with over a decade of experience at the highest level of the sport flashing there before everything slowed down a bit. Hoy got 2 yards on his third carry of the drive. Then Proudfoot was sacked by a blitzing Mi-Hyeon Park, and then a third down pass attempt was batted down by that same Park.

Another punt, and Lane Proudfoot threw a towel over his head during the next drive.

Whether it was excellent play calling or just a great player making great plays in the biggest moment, Sarai Michelle Bradwyn Gwenderyn didn't miss on her final drive. From midfield, the Redwolves called a delayed blitz from Proko. It schematically was a perfect play call - with Alessandra Mio running a double move on the play, it should've given enough time for him to get home, coming off of Gideon Kearse's collapsed side of the line. But with the chemistry those two have, Gwenderyn got the throw off early, and Mio, who turned around just in time to see the ball out of the corner of her eye, found a way to snag it. She isn't as fast as she once was, but when Constantina Perrier came in to slow up the lone cornerback in the vicinity, she'd end a 44 yard sprint into the end zone to take the Falcons' first lead of the game, 27-20.

Five Chromatik stars embraced on the sideline, the roaring of a stadium mute to them in their shared moment. A sixth was making an appearance on the kickoff unit. Nellie Katt - while already a stellar punter who'd earned first team all pro in back to back seasons - was kicking off here. Bit of a gamble from Jack Halifax, but when you have a guy like Proko who demonstrated all of an hour ago that he isn't afraid to throw the ball deep and maybe the best running back in the history of the sport, you take your chances.

It worked - the Redwolves' rookie returner got delusions of grandeur, fixated on the return even though the ball was going to land squarely on the three yard line. He broke exactly one quarter of a tackle and gained exactly half of one yard before going down.

But the Redwolves could gamble too. Proko is a legend on defense - but he's also a lethal gadget on offense. He lined up in the slot on the first play, and in the Falcons' haste to defend him, they gained 17 yards on a Jack Hoy run, the Drawkian phenom exaggerating his "move the chains" celebration and firing up his team. They adjusted, and this time went to Proko. Proudfoot faked a jet sweep and rolled out on a classic bootleg to the other side. The defensive secondary - a constant problem the last couple years with this team, even if Mi-Hyeon Park's stellar leadership mitigated it this time around - allowed their eyes to waver, Proudfoot pump-faked to Hale going down the left sideline, then flipped and launched the ball to Proko, who'd run a wheel the other way.

It wasn't hit best throw - he'd hurried it under some pressure and wanting to get it to his man before anyone else saw it. Proko had to stop and backtrack a bit to grab it, and only just got moving forward again before he was tripped up by Mi-Hyeon Park, who somehow got there before any of the defensive secondary, but the damage was done. The Redwolves, with under a minute to play, were inside the twenty.

Jack Hoy for five yards, timeout Falcons.

Six yards, first down. Timeout.

The Falcons knew they were running out of chances. The Redwolves smelled blood. Proko dropped back and launched the ball to Calvin Hale, riding the hot hand, a guy who'd been downright unstoppable all night against an overmatched secondary.

Problem being, this close to the end zone, two linebackers were in the area. Mi-Hyeon Park literally shoved Jere Rinaldi in the direction of the pass, his complete faith in her led him to launch himself in that direction, and the ball came flying out of Hale's hands right into Mi-Hyeon Park's.

She immedietely took a knee only to be picked up in Jere Rinaldi's embrace, and Lane Proudfoot collapsed to his own after the play, hands on his helmet as the half of the Elysium - and all of the surrounding city - roared their applause. In the glow of the northern lights, the Ranoria City Falcons had won their third championship in the 2030s and 2nd in just three seasons. They haven't - technically - lost a playoff game in the RFL in three years.

The Redwolves continue to own their conference of course, but move to 1-3 in Winter Bowl appearances. A prolific and incredibly productive football team, sure, but their fanbase has suffered tremendous pain for that success. They'll probably take it, of course, over the playoffs-but-not-much-else state they'd been in for a decade prior. Gideon Kearse made his third consecutive championship appearance, with the first of those coming with the Falcons, a game he won. Alessandra Mio breaks a tie to make herself the sole record holder of most Winter Bowl wins by a player with a whopping five - two with the Dietrich Dynamos, three with the Ranoria City Falcons. Gwenderyn of course has three to her name now, more than even John Garrett could lay claim to and as many as the quarterback who was the best in Falcons history in Art Torrent.

She's the best quarterback in the Ranorian Football League, and very possibly en route to being the best in its history - all that's left for Gwenderyn, and her Chromatik temamates, to conquer is the World Bowl.

Fiston Redwolves 20–27 Ranoria City Falcons
Championship MVP: MLB Mi-Hyeon Park

[Ranoria]

OOC: Notes
1- The Ranorian football league doesn’t employ fifth year options or franchise tags. This gives players significantly more leverage in negotiations and leads to more player movement.
2- all those rules favoring the passing game - those aren’t a thing here. Hard hitting safeties and linebackers are at a premium, making the middle of the field a dangerous place to throw, roughing the passer calls are few and far between, and defensive backs are often given a bit of leeway with their physicality prior to the catch.
3- Because of this, expect significantly lower average passing numbers than in the NFL. In 70+ seasons, the RFL has had five 4,700+ yard seasons, two 5,000+ yard passing seasons, and seven 40+ passing TD seasons. By comparison, there have been 15 5,000+ yard seasons in the NFL and 19 NFL seasons of 40+ passing touchdowns. Please keep this in mind if your players - particularly QBs, WRs, or TEs, aren’t having the production you’d expect.
4- also as a result of this, running backs take on a greater role and the average rushing numbers are higher. 2,000+ yards is still a rarity.
5- I'm not committed to any more heavily RP'd seasons, but the league will continue to run as long as I have the currently in place foreign players at the very least

6- Few changes last season! First - we've introduced divisions! I say we because I wouldn't have been able to do this without South Newlandia, huge thanks to him there. Everyone's favorite elephant is crucial and indispensable to the scoring of the RFL now. Two teams were taken out of the league - the Lorcondan National Team and Calgary Stampede - to accommodate this. No foreign (or even notable Ranorian) players were on those teams.

With that said, we've moved to a more familiar format for everyone - four divisions per conference, with each division champion and two wild cards from each conference making the playoffs.

Ranorian Conference

Ranorian Heartland
Mariana Tigers
Berlin Snow Bears
Balafre Bootleggers
Ranoria City Falcons

Ranorian Central
Memphis Steamers
Indianapolis Hogs
Nashville Sabercats
Apollotown Sabers

Ranorian Coastal
Highport Hawks
Sierraville Famers
Munich Thrashers
Victorsville Hurricane

Ranorian North
Lafayette Crusaders
Halifax Blizzard
Madison Gladiators
Vancouver Yeti

National Conference

National North
Rouyoutte Aurora Knights
Eglise Mountaineers
Herot Paladins
Fermete Marauders

National Central
Ranoria City Silver
Pittsburgh Ironmen
Dietrich Dynamos
Richardson Fenrirs

National West
Yellowknife Wraiths
Brittany Walruses
Menagerie Pioneers
Edmunton Eagles

National Coastal
Fiston Redwolves
North Ashialand Dreadnaughts
New Quebec Fighters
Port Kruger Phalanx

For Offseason Notes See Below
Offseason News | Preview

RFL 2037 - Young Man's Game

The 2037 season of the Ranorian Football League kicks off with plenty of storylines - from one of the most highly anticipated draft classes in decades, reports of cracks in the dynasty in Ranoria City, and the pursuing back biting at their heels in teams like Fiston, Apollotown, and Berlin looking to take the throne, there's plenty to watch.

[b]National Conference

National Conference

National North: A Passing Of The Torch

1 Herot Paladins                    16   12   4   360  265  +95    0.750
 2 Rouyotte Aurora Knights           16   10   6   355  262  +93    0.625
 3 Fermete Marauders                 16    8   8   302  287  +15    0.500
 4 Eglise Mountaineers               16    7   9   284  403 −119    0.438

When veteran quarterback Ballast Queen signed with the newly minted Rouyoutte Aurora Knights, he was expected to lead a revamped franchise to the pinnacle of the sport. And while he's had incredibly productive passing seasons, this year was definitely a drop off, and it came at the wort possible time.

Things started tough for the Herot Paladins. Fielding a rookie quarterback in Shirinna Lehmann, they watched their hopeful franchise passer throw four interceptions to Victoria Mio in the season opener, with the cornerback taking one of them back for six in a dominant win for her Fermete Marauders.

That said, things got better in a hurry. They found a way to scrape together a 12-win season, sweeping the Aurora Knights in the process to win the division for the first time in years. Vanorian wideout WR Darin Sundström and running back Alexander Ostby were critical to their success, with Sundström pacing the team's next two receivers combined with thirteen hundred yards and eleven receiving scores, operating as a RAC machine out of the slot while Ostby served an outlet for Lehmann all year long. Their veteran stars on defense did just enough, and they earned the fourth seed in the conference.

Meanwhile, the Aurora Knights miss the playoffs as Queen, after three years, seems to have failed to deliver on the high hopes despite his elite production. The Marauders slipped to an 8-8 season as they continue to wallow in mediocrity, and whispers of moving on from veteran QB Sheila Pantoja permeate the franchise as the passing game takes more and more priority even in Ranoria.

National Central: Losing Is A Skill Issue

1 Ranoria City Silver               16   12   4   424  238 +186    0.750
 2 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16   12   4   441  283 +158    0.750
 3 Richardson Fenrirs                16   12   4   389  251 +138    0.750
 4 Dietrich Dynamos                  16    7   9   301  350  −49    0.438

This was the most competitive division in football this season, and a huge reason that there were seven ten-win teams in a brutal national conference this season, showing that what was the weaker conference for so long is now itself sporting a talent-rich array of squads.

First of all - props to the Fenrirs' Tim Hunt. After back-to-back 7-9 seasons that saw the young man turn the ball over far too often and fail to put up twenty points per game, he led this team back in a big way, with Deshawn Fredericks back in OPOY form and Chase Okama at running back ripping off three 40+ yard touchdown runs. It his best season since their championship appearance in 2034, ripping off 3815 yards and 27 touchdowns to just 13 interceptions while completing a career high 64.3% of his passes. It'd be enough to send his Fenrirs to the playoffs - the three 12-win squads from the National who duked it out for the division aren't quite done with each other yet.

Meanwhile, in some other years, the season Ironmen back Apollo Esther had may have been an MVP caliber one - the former Krauts star ran for seventeen hundred rushing yards and eighteen touchdowns as defenses struggled to account for both him and a Leonardo Torrent-led passing game with Layna Cinder recording a career high 913 receiving yards as a true threat in this offense. Kaiser Belfort tallied an RFL-leading 190 tackles, Eden Park and Frederic Benn-Kocian combined for seventeen sacks, it was a great year for the historically strong franchise. But of course - it was the Ranoria City Silver who led the charge.

The Chromatik-filled defensive unit was spearheaded by edge rushers Nicole Manstrom and Jill Lia, who led the league's best defense this season allowing just 14.9 points per game while Rowenna Hastroff handled the offense at running back. Lia in particular had a career year with 16.5 sacks and, surprisingly, earned nineteen tackles for loss, feasting off of runs away from her side of the field and RPO type plays as she simply ran down ball carriers from behind, also leading to five forced fumbles.

The Dynamos continue to not be very good at this team as QB Diego Rodriguez seems to finally be falling out of favor with the coaching staff on a team that never recovered from Diamond Rhine blowing up what should've been a dynasty.

National Central: Maybe Next Year Blake?

1 Brittanny Walruses                16   11   5   424  261 +163    0.688
 2 Yellowknife Wraiths               16    6  10   339  477 −138    0.375
 3 Edmunton Eagles                   16    3  13   221  405 −184    0.188
 4 Menagerie Pioneers                16    1  15   192  529 −337    0.062

A tough one to watch as the highly anticipated Blake Zuercher struggled to put up points all season. When Edmunton drafted he and South Newlandian wideout Viktoire Wilson, they were taking a swing on their future with the goal of competing in the division immedietely. Instead, Edmunton's win total sank from six to three, and the Walruses - a mediocre team by all accounts - continued to rule over a barren division.

Mind you, it's not all Blake's fault. Rolan Monroe was a former DROY for a reason at edge rusher for the Wraiths, and Malik Sherman of the Pioneers is still good, if aging - and Zuercher's Eagles don't know they're allowed to get offensive linemen yet as their young quarterback missed two games this season and still took an RFL-high fifty five sacks. His development will be key, but will he have a chance on this team? He struggled throwing the ball behind a porous offensive line - the youngster passed for under 2400 yards in 14 games, and put up fifteen touchdowns to ten picks, but he was often forced to improvise, and saw a ton of success on the ground when he did. He carried the ball 81 times for 512 yards, scoring half a dozen touchdowns there, including one on a 56 yard game winner in week four. While exciting, the Eagles must find Zuercher offensive line help, lest he develop a poor habit of relying completely on his legs, limiting his growth and leaving him injury prone down the line.


National West: Run-of-the-mill Redwolves

1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   12   4   492  255 +237    0.750
 2 New Quebec Fighters               16    9   7   289  277  +12    0.562
 3 North Ashialand Dreadnaughts      16    5  11   332  384  −52    0.312
 4 Port Kruger Phalanx               16    1  15   213  431 −218    0.062

A cruise to the division title by the Fiston Redwolves - only Ernest Bello's New Quebec Fighter's even posted a winning record in a division with what's arguably the strongest team in the Ranorian Football League. Lane Proudfoot and Jack Hoy led the best offense in the league with Proudfoot pacing the competition in both passing yards (4,644) and passing touchdowns (35), both career highs for the Drawkian passer. "I mean yeah, that's cool, I guess?" Proudfoot said at his postgame presser after a week 17 Sunday Night game clinched his league-leading numbers, but when he was asked a follow up question, he was distracted by a group of young women calling for him in the crowd.

Anyway, you want something really embarassing? The Port Kruger Phalanx went 1-15 while fielding two of the best players in the country in Rylan Rodgers Jr at running back and Akhello Volson at corner. In true Phalanx fashion, they hope one guy on each side of the ball can carry their team. Volson was completely unengaged later in the season because team's wouldn't throw to him, preferring the soft other guys in the secondary, and their quarterback threw no touchdowns and eight picks against loaded boxes - leading to even Rylan's electric self having a down season.

They did get some nice ratings though, by Akhello Volson returning two interceptions for touchdowns. "We lateral everything," he laughed after the second, "Look, we're out of the playoffs, we're not a good team this year, but we're putting a product out there, so let's make it entertaining!"

Coaches were vocally frustrated about his insistence that all picks should be lateraled if you don't have a shot at a touchdown - but the team did score six defensive touchdowns partially thanks to his efforts.

"Sorry, what was that? Oh yeah, as I was saying, man, we have the best running back, like, ever, I don't even really want to throw the ball that much, I'm a run first guy, you feel me? So...give the man the ball." Notably, on top of setting career highs in passing yards and touchdowns, he also set set a personal best in rushing yards with 72.

Ranorian Conference

Ranorian North: The Benolution

1 Madison Gladiators                16    8   8   345  301  +44    0.500
 2 Lafayette Crusaders               16    6  10   260  358  −98    0.375
 3 Halifax Blizzard                  16    6  10   297  420 −123    0.375
 4 Vancouver Yeti                    16    4  12   293  423 −130    0.250

Don't get us wrong, winning the Ranorian North isn't some sort of gold medal, historic even - this division sucks. It's the third straight season where the winner has been .500 or worse - but that doesn't make it any less exciting for the team that just pulled it off.

In Halifax, Isidora would be one of the best players in the league this season, joining Kaiser Belfort as one of the guys to say they ended an almost decade-long streak of at least Park Mi-Hyeon or Jere Rinaldi being featured on the first-team all pro ballot. All for naught of course, the Blizzard suck.

For the Lafayette Crusaders led by rookie linebacker and Cold Hill alumn Derek Pierce, they probably thought that their defense - along with a top 50% quarterback in Jay Garrian, could keep them atop the division for one more season at least while some kid named Benoit Youngblood continued to marinate.

That said, they came into week 17 at 6-9 in a climactic showdown with the 7-8 Madison Gladiators. Perhaps not a marquee showdown on paper, but the division was on the line here, and they were going against a rookie quarterback who'd scraped together win after win for a downtrodden franchise.

Initially, they held strong, allowing just three points in the first half thanks to Derek Pierce completely stifling the run game and bracket coverage keeping Beno from going to Nikolas Isaksen. They'd take a 6-3 lead to half, and it was all downhill from there. The Gladiators got rolling, with Youngblood pushing his team into field goal range twice to make it 9-6 while Jay Garrian, despite having all-pro Goliath Castellan as a stonewall on his blindside, looked completely hapless. Youngblood scored two fourth quarter touchdowns, both to Isaksen, and the Crusaders only whimpered up 6 points in answer - and with that, the Gladiators were going to the playoffs for the first time since strong safety Judas Wolfson retired.

Huge leap from the Gladiators. After signing Nikolas Isaksen and drafting 2x NSCF OPOY and NSCF 29 champion Benoit Youngblood, their offense jumped from scoring just under 14.9 points per game to a nice 21.5, almost a full touchdown difference. Consequently, their win total jumped from 3 to 8, and while Beno won't be getting anyone looking his way for an MVP award, he's certainly proved his mettle early. While it wasn't the most prolific season, Beno was productive, with 3,582 passing yards and 25 scores to just ten picks as head coach Raul Nieler eased him into the RFL pace.

"Kid's incredible," Nieler laughed after that week 17 victory, "There's definitely things he can improve, but I'm incredibly proud of what he's done so far and even more excited than before about his ceiling. For now - we're going to the playoffs!"

Ranorian Heartland: The Cannibalizing Ones

1 Mariana Tigers                    16   14   2   437  264 +173    0.875
 2 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   4   413  257 +156    0.750
 3 Berlin Snow Bears                 16   11   5   420  307 +113    0.688
 4 Balafre Bootleggers               16    5  11   281  363  −82    0.312

Almost feels weird now when Falcons quarterback Sarai Gwenderyn isn't the MVP favorite this season - she still put up a strong campaign, forty one hundred yards and twenty seven touchdowns to just eight interceptions - but 25 points a game, one of the better offenses in the league or not, feels a little stale. Especially when she got shown up by none other than Gracelyn Jackson, at least in the touchdowns department. The third year quarterback for the Snow Bears had a breakout season after two years as a game manager, ripping off 28 touchdown passes and a career-high 3,780 passing yards. Her efforts would be enough to secure the second wild card spot without too much trouble, sending three teams from the Heartland into the playoffs

She had plenty of help though - Gauge Lawson continues to be one of the league's most productive backs, while Rachel Klein, despite her age, has transitioned from a flashy WR1 to a possession first chain mover, letting Dustin van Halfensen take over the role as the big play man within the offense. Throw in Demitrius St Pierre as the true vertical threat out wide, and she's got plenty of weapons. Gwenderyn, meanwhile, is mostly limited to working with Constantina Perrier, as Alessandra Mio, while still savvy, has declined a great deal due to her age and was good for just under six hundred yards this season. While the Falcons were still a 12-4 team and cruised into the playoffs, Perrier struggled to act as her usual RAC-monster self with teams playing a ton of zone on her and swarming to the football when she was targeted. And of course with all due respect to Sarai Gwenderyn, the team doesn't have a true rushing threat at this point - their 30-year-old quarterback can't fill that role withiout risking their season.

The Balafre Bootleggers suck. They had like one good player in Hector Storlffson and he left in free agency. But let's get to the winners.

The Mariana Tigers absolutely came roaring back. Ha, pun. Giving Elephants quarterback Zachary Stevens the keys to the offense was a fruitful decision, leveling up the passing game for this team. He utilized his South Newlandian teammates well - wideout Adam Parker served as a solid top option, and even 37 year old Dhruv Valentine, who insists he's got another year left in him, caught three touchdowns and picked up 21 first downs throughout the season on 31 receptions for 182 yards. But the real kicker? Thomas freaking Fantikos. The 2035 Offensive Rookie of the Year decided to remind everyone just how electric he can be, and with a legitimate threat at quarterback, he thrived. Fantikos would rush for an RFL-leading 1,931 yards and 20 touchdowns on 371 carries - some speculate that he can handle that kind of workload because Apollotown Sabers star Zamadi Ayana started over him at Elephant Valley. Throw in Zachary Stevens chipping in with 3,420 yards and 22 scores as a first year starter while largely avoiding any turnovers, and they arrived at the end of the season with a league-best 14-2 record and the top seed in the conference coming from the league's toughest division. Not bad.

Ranorian Central: Fairbanks and Ayana Go BRR

1 Apollotown Sabers                 16   12   4   471  248 +223    0.750
 2 Memphis Steamers                  16    9   7   392  320  +72    0.562
 3 Indianapolis Hogs                 16    7   9   280  397 −117    0.438
 4 Nashville Sabercats               16    4  12   325  448 −123    0.250

The Hogs haven't been good since they lost John Garrett. The most interesting thing about them is that they have a behemoth of a guard named Thor Maliek, a native of Ranoria's gold-rich northern Isguld territories. Sabercats are in the same boat - they were a perennial playoff team and 1 time semifinalist with Ballast Queen, and have been a doormat since he left for Rouyoutte and their grand stadium of the Elysium.

So who's exciting? The Memphis Steamers can ball - many expected this to be a breakout year for third year wideout Max Strömberg, and he delivered - leading the league in receiving with 1,505 yards and eight scores, but Kualu Luani seemed to be holding the offense back, throwing a career-high 16 interceptions against 24 touchdowns. The steamers believe they have the best receiver in the league - will they move on from Luani to maximize his impact?

Anyway, the Sabers, after finally shelling out in free agency, got superstar back Zamadi Ayana the help he needed on offense. That started with big Hector Storolffson at guard, and drafting a solid left tackle in Donovan Johnson to solidify one side of the line. Throw in grabbing Brooklyn Ghiarlando as a change of pace runner behind Ayana, and the offense finally had some teeth. And of course, the defense is fielding Candace Ferrett, Fairbanks, and Gudbrand Taurus on the defensive line is a recipe for success. At 12-4, they had no trouble winning their division, with Ayana finally having his breakout season. He turned in a legitimate MVP resume with 1,733 rushing yards and eighteen scores, delivering on the promise he's shown since a rookie now that he's had some help. Fairbanks and co, meanwhile, led the second best defense in the RFL.



Ranorian Coastal: Hawks Country BRR

1 Highport Hawks                    16   13   3   480  257 +223    0.812
 2 Munich  Thrashers                 16    8   8   265  367 −102    0.500
 3 Victorsville Hurricane            16    7   9   318  391  −73    0.438
 4 Sierraville Farmers               16    2  14   243  399 −156    0.125

Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth leading the league's second best offense? Who would've guessed. Rhetorical of course - Joseph, who's transitioned to almost a pure pocket passer these days - is now tracking at four straight seasons of 4,000+ passing yards and 30+ touchdowns. He's the oldest starting qarterback in the league and he won't last forever, but the Hawks, while not at the peak they were not so long ago, are still perennial contenders. Herman Whitworth doesn't seem to be slowing down too much yet, he's still an uber-productive runner for the team that owns this division.

Ranorian Football League 2037 - Playoffs

First two seeds receive a bye, next two seeds get home playoff games, bottom two seeds are the wild cards

National Conference
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   12   4   492  255 +237    0.750
 2 Ranoria City Silver               16   12   4   424  238 +186    0.750
 3 Herot Paladins                    16   12   4   360  265  +95    0.750
 4 Brittanny Walruses                16   11   5   424  261 +163    0.688
 5 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16   12   4   441  283 +158    0.750
 6 Richardson Fenrirs                16   12   4   389  251 +138    0.750

Ranorian Conference
 1 Mariana Tigers                    16   14   2   437  264 +173    0.875
 2 Highport Hawks                    16   13   3   480  257 +223    0.812
 3 Apollotown Sabers                 16   12   4   471  248 +223    0.750
 4 Madison Gladiators                16    8   8   345  301  +44    0.500
 5 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   4   413  257 +156    0.750
 6 Berlin Snow Bears                 16   11   5   420  307 +113    0.688

Wild Card Weekend

Every team designated a "Wild Card" had as good of or a better record than the home team in this schedule - pretty wild that one division in each conference was that stacked. We get a matchup of two of the preseason frontrunners in Apollotown and Berlin, a matchup of an established star in Sarai Gwenderyn and the hot rookie Benoit Youngblood, Tim Hunt's Fenrirs against Shirinna Lehmann's Paladins, and Apollo Esther's Ironmen against the Walruses. Good times!


Ranorian Conference

The Sabers are one of the strongest teams in the league this season, with Zamadi Ayana and Abram Fairbanks both being among the best players in the league at their positions and with a legitimately world-class defensive line. For all their excitement this season, those Snow Bears' murder mittens weren't quite enough to get past that, with Rachel Klein having trouble getting open in time for her young passer. DVH scored a touchdown late to make it interesting, but a Candace Ferrett strip sack ended this one.

Apollotown Sabers 27–16 Berlin Snow Bears

Probably the game to watch - the Gladiators came in as the biggest underdogs for a home team in the last two decades, but everyone was betting on young Beno. The Gladiators gave it their best shot - but ultimately they didn't have the firepower to get past a Park Mi-Hyeon called defense with Jere Rinaldi as its sword. Helluva season from the Gladiators regardless - but the Falcons were always going to win this game.

Madison Gladiators 13–23 Ranoria City Falcons

National Conference

Rookie quarterback Shirinna Lehmann draws a lot of parallels to Benoit Youngblood - she won a lot of games in college as a three year starter at Ranoria State, and broke a few passing records on the way. Going against a guy who'd led his team to the Winter Bowl not too long ago was a tough task, but she was up for it.

The Fenrirs took an early 6-0 lead with a couple field goals, and there were three lead changes in the fourth as the Paladins scored a touchdown then three drives, between the two teams, ended in field goals.

After that though, Tim Hunt's side would stall out - he threw an interception to Victor Waller that WR Darin Sundström converted into a touchdown once his team got possession, and the Paladins would run away with it in the fourth.

Herot Paladins 30–12 Richardson Fenrirs

Brittany, frankly, just didn't have the star power to contend with this team. Frederic Benn-Kocian sacked the Walrus's passer twice and Eden Park added a third while Apollo Esther dominated and controlled the clock all day.
Brittany Walruses 10–26 Pittsburgh Ironmen

---

---

National Conference
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   12   4   492  255 +237    0.750
 2 Ranoria City Silver               16   12   4   424  238 +186    0.750
 3 Herot Paladins                    16   12   4   360  265  +95    0.750
 5 Pittsburgh Ironmen                16   12   4   441  283 +158    0.750

Ranorian Conference
 1 Mariana Tigers                    16   14   2   437  264 +173    0.875
 2 Highport Hawks                    16   13   3   480  257 +223    0.812
 3 Apollotown Sabers                 16   12   4   471  248 +223    0.750
 5 Ranoria City Falcons              16   12   4   413  257 +156    0.750

Now the heavyweights take the field - the Falcons and Tigers will face off in a divisional rivalry game. After splitting the season series, this will serve as a rubber match, while the Apollotown Sabers defense and running game will look to slow down Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth's offense.

Pass rusher Jill Lia's Silver will be tasked with knocking QB Shirinna Lehmann's Paladins out of the tournament, and for the Ironmen's troubles, they've earned a dance with the Redwolves.

Ranorian Conference

The Ironmen are one of those squads that put together wa juggernaut on paper and just get nothing but pain in return. Apollo Esther and Kaiser Belfort were championship winning starters for the Ranorian Krauts, Frederic Benn-Kocian and Eden Park for the Quebecois, and they just can't get it done. Proudfoot and Jack Hoy eviscerated them.

Fiston Redwolves 31-6 Pittsburgh Ironmen

It took another dominant showing from the Silver's defense to bring this one home - they pitched a fourth quarter shutout and held the Paladins to just sixteen overall to earn a conference championship berth.

Ranoria City Silver 19-16 Herot Paladins

National Conference

Down 13-7, Sarai Gwenderyn mustered up one final, heroic drive that ended with a one yard touchdown pass to Alessandra Mio. After veteran South Newlandian corner Valantin Pruitt and big Bill Roosevelt had kept them under wraps all game, it felt like they'd finally done enough to win.

And then Zachary Stevens launched a bomb to connect with Adam Parker, and they could only watch in horror as the RFL's leading rusher stormed his way into the end zone just forty three seconds after what had apparently beena game winning score. Tough out for the defending champs - they'll have to reload on both sides of the ball soon, with their stars aging out of their prime at this point.

Mariana Tigers 20-14 Ranoria City Falcons

Biggest blowout of the playoffs to this point. Apollotown's defense absolutely dominated the trenches all game - Herman Whitworth was consistently hit in the backfield and Byron Joseph never had time to breathe while Zamadi Ayana torched their underhanded defense, galloping ahead for a career high 193 yards and four touchdowns to boot.

---

---

National Conference
 1 Fiston  Redwolves                 16   12   4   492  255 +237    0.750
 2 Ranoria City Silver               16   12   4   424  238 +186    0.750[/u]

Ranorian Conference
 1 Mariana Tigers                    16   14   2   437  264 +173    0.875
 3 Apollotown Sabers                 16   12   4   471  248 +223    0.750

The best defense in the Silver heads to Fiston to take on the league's best offense, while Apollotown remains as the only team without a bye to survive this far - they take on the top seeded Tigers with the league's leading rusher in their backfield.

Proudfoot didn't lead the league in passing yards for nothing, but this game was going to push him to his limits. Gone were the days of Calvin Hale and Isaak Rodriguez torching deficient secondaries and getting open before the pass rush had a chance. So, he had a different plan, and that plan's name was Jack Hoy.

The Redwolves ran the ball on the first twelve plays of the game - getting an opening drive touchdown and setting up a deep play action shot on their second drive. They established the tone early - you have your freaks, we have ours, lets see who wins.

Rowenna Hastroff, meanwhile, had a great day - the team did an amazing job running pulling stunts and traps to keep Gideon Kearse at bay, and she'd finish the game with 115 yards and a pair of scores, but it wasn't enough to take this one home. The Silver were in a must-pass situation on their final drive, and after three straight incompletions, Gideon Kearse would finish it off, diving through the back of their unawares passer and howling into the sky at his victory.

Sure, his job had been easier with Proko in the secondary, but what can ya do?

Fiston Redwolves 30–24 Ranoria City Silver

A meeting of two Elephant Valley Red Elefriend alumni. Zamadi Ayana, former top five pick and the starter, and his backup, Thomas Fantikos, who the Mariana Tigers had aggressively taken in the second round to great affect. They were gunning for their second title appearance in three seasons while Ayana's Ironmen were finally on the doorstep after years of disappointing performances.

The game was everything an old head could ask for - sixty combined carries between the two workhorses for a combined 254 rushing yards as neither squad would give an inch. In the end, the difference came down to Zachary Stevens. Well, more so the option of passing the ball effectively. Because having that option meant that Abram Fairbanks, Candace Ferrett, and Gudbrand Taurus could come after the quarterback. Their four combined sacks would be Mariana's downfall, with the last coming on a third down with two seconds on the clock, forcing a 59 yard field goal attempt that never came close.

Fairbanks, Taurus and Ferrett went absolutely wild, as you could guess - although the former two at least have World Bowls to their name, as does Ayana, sometimes you've gotta get one in domestic play as well.

Mariana Tigers 16–19 Apollotown Sabers

Offensive Rookie Of The Year: Benoit Youngblood, QB, Madison Gladiators [QUE]
Easy choice here. Increased his teams offensive output by nearly 50% and doubled their win total before bowing out against one of the best to ever do it. With Raul Nieler as his head coach, the kid's future is bright.

Defensive Rookie of the Year: Takeuchi Ichiko, CB, Munich Thrashers [CMT]
While the Thrashers still suck, Ichiko was a diamond in the rough for them. The rookie and former NSCF champion recorded four interceptions and allowed just one touchdown all season.

Offensive Player of the Year: Zamadi Ayana, RB, Apollotown Sabers [BNJ]
Second in the league in all major rushing categories, with anything but a porous offensive line in front of him, Ayana is borderline unstoppable, and guided his team to a twelve win season with a monstrous defense behind him.

Defensive Player of the Year: Jill Lia, Edge, Ranoria City Silver [CMT]
Leading the league in sacks, posting a ton of TFL, five forced fumbles, oh right and leading the league's best defense for good measure. Jill Lia ran away with this award in a pass-rusher heavy league with generational talents like Gideon Kearse and Abram Fairbanks prowling and drawing headlines, incredibly impressive effort from her.

Footballer of the Year: Ballast Queen, QB, Rouyoutte Aurora Knights
Queen helped raise a ton of money (granted, from an obscenely rich city) to help after a massive avalanche took several lives and destroyed dozens of homes in the Isguld territories, donating plenty of his own and coordinating relief efforts in the process. Interestingly, Lane Proudfoot received the most "fan votes" in the history of the award, but those don't really mean much.

RFL 2037 MVP

Thomas Fantikos, RB, Mariana Tigers [SNL]

Gotta love fantastic Fantikos. The 2035 Offensive Rookie of the Year nearly guided his Tigers to a second championship berth in three seasons, leading the league in rushing yards and touchdowns while contributing decently as a receiver now that he has someone who knows what a throw is at quarterback. Proudfoot received some votes, but in a run first league with a 14-2 record, Fantikos commanded the scene and deserves to be named the first South Newlandian RFL MVP winner.

Ranorian Football League
2037 Winter Bowl @ The Elysium

It's a pretty cool feeling to have the aurora borealis shining down on you in a championship game (thanks to some crafty stadium plans and a Vanorian engineered ceiling). Some of these guys had felt it before - Abram Fairbanks, Zamadi Ayana, Gideon Kearse, and Gudbrang Taurus had all faced off in the "Greatest Show on Turf", the World Bowl 46 championship between Banija and Ranoria.

Some hadn't. Lane Proudfoot and Jack Hoy had been in this stadium before of course - and walloped the Aurora Knights in the process - but not for a championship game.

And so things kicked off, and they started out ugly - the league's passing leader capped off the opening drive with a touchdown to Jack Hoy in the flat, taking a hit from Abram Fairbanks just to get that one off as his man ran it in. That would be the only offensive touchdown for either team this game.

Gideon Kearse, without Proko behind him, was basically a one man army on the Redwolves defense, but that was okay, because he's the best player in the sport. Zamadi Ayana, for all the glamor of his career year, couldn't get going - if it wasn't one of the four tackles for loss Kearse recorded that night, it was the defensive end blowing up the line and forcing him to cut back or just run into his own overmatched offensive linemen. But Proudfoot and Jack Hoy weren't faring much better after that scripted first drive.

Proudfoot fumbled twice - on seven sacks - with the three headed beast of a defensive line across from him, and his superstar enigmatic back managed just thirty rushing yards in what was easily the worst showing of his RFL career. A game that had been touted as a matchup of superstar running backs was turning into a contest of whether the tour de force of Gideon Kearse or Abram Fairbanks would prove more fruitful.

But Proudfoot would make his name heard here, when he took a hit from Gudbrand Taurus, a known hothead, to complete a third down pass. “So, why are you even trying dude?” He pointed to the Sabers’ sideline, “I mean your offense is so bad that I don’t even know how you guys got here, you’re not much better, why did you even show up?”

Taurus went with his automatic response - a normally terrifying right hook, but Proudfoot just laughed when it glanced off his shoulder. Taurus, big as he was, couldn’t reach high enough to get a clean shot on his chin. Flags flew, they got their fifteen. “I should try that more often,” the quarterback said at the postgame, “I thought handing it off was easy, but that’s a different level!”

Now they wouldn’t pick up another yard before punting on that drive - but that ended up being perfect. The punt rolled to a stop just inside the two, pinning the Sabers back. And they weren’t gonna get fancy here - down 7-3, they were one play away from taking a lead and couldn’t afford to make a backbreaking mistake here. So they handed the ball off to the best player on the field. Only, they forgot who the best player on the field was.

Zamadi Ayana made a jump cut to get to the hole, and that was all the time Kearse needed, punching the ball out the second it disconnected from the star runner’s hip. He only had time to turn around and bring his hands to his face mask before Kearse had dove on top of it.

“We’re trained to go for the ball when we see air between it and the carrier,” Kearse said after the game, “it doesn’t happen often, but our coaches noticed he has a slight window when he goes for those jump cuts. Little bit of luck and a lot of preparation.”

To the Sabers’ credit, their defensive line made one hell of a last stand - it took four Jack Hoy handoffs to score from the one yard line, but score he did, and he let the whole world know, trading the Winter Bowl-winning touchdown ball for a six year old’s paper crown from an Outbox restaurant in the stadium and crowning himself with it. Lane Proudfoot bowed before him, and the rest of the offense followed suit.

With a 14-3 deficit, the Sabers passing game never stood a chance, and their last prayer of a Hail Mary fell harmlessly to the ground as the Redwolves took home yet another championship.

It was still a breakthrough season for the Sabers - after years and years of wasting elite talent, they at least got to the big one. But for now, the Redwolves are still one of the heavyweights in this league. And as long as the immortal legend in Hoy, the reigning passing king in Proudfoot, and the best player in the world in Kearse are there, that’s not going to change.

Apollotown Sabers 3–14 Fiston Redwolves