NSCF 23 - Everything Thread

by **TJUN-ia** » Wed Mar 10, 2021 11:04 am

After being outplayed in College Hill, the "Conference of Death" continued for the Trent State Feathercaps as we took on the Squidbreak of the Squidroidia Armed Forces Academy, or just SAFA, in Sherwood Feild. These two teams were literally at the opposite ends of the Mineral Spectrum, with SAFA at 2-0 and YSU at 0-2, but that didn't stop this contest from becoming what it did - a game that would test the commitment many had for Johnny Bridgeford's team.

This game would be an offensive shoot-out where both quarterbacks, Gareth Baldwin and Ernesto Jankowski, would play a huge role in racking up the score. Baldwin would strike first through a 10-yard fake by Klaveon Tyrell allowing him to run into the end zone, but Jankowski would then do the same with Chris Landi to even the score. It would be like this all game - Jonny Hermansson scores? Then Fremont Whitehorse will do the same. Victor Que-et-Vous will get one as well? Then so will Olek Herczog. Shea MacLean will go 6/6 including 3 field goals? Then so will Clayton McGee! For most of this contest, the Squidbreak and Feathercaps were neck and neck, refusing to give the other team any advantage whatsoever. This would last until the very end...where hearts would be broken. The final 2 minutes of this contest would be pure hell as Balwin looked to try and end this contest himself only for his pass on 2nd and 10 to be intercepted by one Yaroslav Jerome. Jankowski took over the rings and would find his man from 8 yards, Hermansson the man who caught it. MacLean made the extra point and after a decisive TJUN-ian drive was denied by Colonel Kei Nishimura's wall time and time again, this contest was over. We were 0-3 despite everything this team had done.

In TJUN-ia, they say that pain is your best friend most of the time, especially when you support a team. That basically describes how Notts and Europa are feeling about TSU right now, a team who certainly has potential but just can't get it done on game day. No one is blaming anyone for how we lost these 3 games, but it...hurts just close we've been to claiming a single win on the board. Make no mistake: This team wasn't going to do what the SAFA did last season, but if we can't beat fellow 0-3 Vietussia Academy next week then...what's even the point anymore? What's the point of trying to follow a team that the gods just don't like? WE ARE! TRENT STATE!

SCHEDULE (MINERAL Conference + 3 Non-Conf)
Week 1: vs Freedom's Altar (YSP) L 13-20 OT (4th/0-1)
Week 2: @University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park (CBP) L 9-20 (4th/0-2)
Week 3: vs Squidroidia Armed Forces Academy (SQR) L 30-37 (5th/0-3)
Week 4: @Vietussia Academy (UNV)
Week 5: vs Syracuse State (CRL)
Week 6: @Freedom's Altar (YSP)
Week 7: vs University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park (CBP)
Week 8: @Squidroidia Armed Forces Academy (SQR)
Week 9: vs Vietussia Academy (UNV)
Week 10: @Syracuse State (CRL)
---------------------Non-Conference---------------------
Week 11: vs Mar Sara Tech (VAL)
Week 12: @Cavsar U (DWK)
Week 13: vs Swisston City (KND)

by **Kohnhead** » Wed Mar 10, 2021 8:04 pm

Kohnhead City loses first of the season and first ever to Richardson

Joseph was ineffective as a passer against a good Richardson defense

We knew that the easy schedule that saw us score 126 points in two games against Lismore Christian College and Swisston City University eventually had to come to an end as we prepared to face tougher competition and first up was a trip to Dietrich Stadium to take on Richardson University. Now before we dive into the match against the 5 time Big Eight Champions we first have to talk about the circumstances surrounding this game.

Last year in Kohnhead City's first year in the NSCF they sat at 2-0 and prepared to take on a one loss Richardson team that was coming off of a win against Ranorian rivals in Cold Hill who had flattened the Mighty Eagles earlier in the season. While Kohnhead City had improved after an 0-2 start no one was predicting an upset victory and that's exactly what happened and it wasn't close with KCU taking it 17-6 completely shutting down any resemblance of an offense shown by Richardson.

Five weeks later in the last match of the conference part of the season, we had to go to their place in a match that would determine second place in the standings and would give the winner an inside track to the playoffs putting the loser in a much more difficult situation. While it was closer than before, Kohnhead City walked away with the 17-13 victory. Many would expect this to be the last meeting between the two schools and while that would be bad enough for Richardson it got worse.

In the second round of the playoffs, Kohnhead City got to face them once again after Richardson upset Salamantic Universities to earn a trip to Chicken King Stadium where their offense fell flat and us without Herman Whitworth did just enough winning 10-6 to put ourselves at 3-0 against Richardson and inspiring many memes that the Governors were subject to. To add further humiliation to the problem KSPN who started publishing a power rankings this season had Richardson at 8, one spot behind KCU to start the season which apparently was taped up in the Richardson locker room when they upset Cold Hill in week one.

In addition to these factors which in itself could turn this into a big match there were also words spoken to the media this week that included Richardson Coach Richard Steinheil saying "Next week is a big one. We're going to have a nice welcoming party ready, roll out the red carpet, and we're going to exorcise some demons." Byron Joseph our star quarterback was the one to respond and he claimed to not want any fighting although his response doesn't quite reflect that.

"From the place that he's coming from I get he wants to show confidence and I get that he wants to beat us we beat them three times last season that's gotta hurt however you just can't say that about our team. For him to be saying that especially after what we did to them last year in their house and in our house twice, I just can't respect those comments about the red carpet especially. I'm not going to go out there and talk about how they're a bad team because that's not true and we know that isn't true however I just don't appreciate those comments to us. I'm not going to try and start a fight, he has the right to say whatever he wants I don't like those comments and I know that we will have them at the front of our minds Saturday Night at Richardson."

With all this in mind Dietrich Stadium was filled to the brim for some Saturday Night Football betwen the Governors and the Mighty Eagles and words were definitely exchanged prior to the game which included freshman running back Elliot Roach for Richardson who is from Kohnhead. Derek Rivers a trasnfer from Richardson to Kohnhead City was also present although it was a happier reunion for him and he spent most of the time hugging his former teammates after having played with some of them for two years. While there was no violence that went on you could tell the atmosphere was tense as the kickoff went off.

There would be one big difference between this year and last year's three games and that was Richardson's offense. They had scored a grand total of 25 points in three games last seaon and Beacon Murray and Angelo Rosin the two rotating quarterbacks were ineffective at best and while both are still on the roster Richardson has moved on to transfer Ezekiel Bantoba from Banija. Bantoba stayed pretty silent during the week as opposed to his opposite in Byron Joseph who as we said before had been active.

It wouldn't take long for Bantoba to show an overconfident KCU defense (who had hyperinflated egos due to a soft schedule) that they weren't as good as they had thought. It wouldn't take long for the "Banijan Connection" to strike hard against us with Bantoba tossing a 19 yard score to Baraka Hali the Banijan receiver who used his 6-5 frame to beat Zion Irving on a jump ball. Just like that it was 7-0 Richardson and after some jawing from their players we would get the ball.

While Richardson's defense has not been at the level of norm it's still a very good unit and it didn't take long for us to find out that our offensive line might not be as good as in the first couple of games and average 8 yards per carry isn't really possible. We marched down the field a lot slower than against LCC or SCU but Joseph gave it away throwing a pick to Kade Witt that was intended for Ezekial Edwards in the slot and was a bit behind him. Joseph's improvements in the air were noticable compared to last year but he definitely struggled in ways we hadn't seen out of him since his poor performance throwing wise against FSU in the semifinals.

Richardson would go up 10-0 on a 32 yard field goal following a big sack from Derek Rivers who was trying to show that he shouldn't have been pushed down the depth chart at Richardson. There's a reason Milton Donnelly was named the coach of the year last season and that's because he's a very good coach and that was evident with the call on the next drive at the Richardson 41 on 3rd and 12. Joseph had taken a triple option himself and gotten big yardage earlier in the drive and it was obvious that he would be resorting to his rushing a lot more than in the first games and it worked that time.

The call was simple a handoff to Rowena Hastroff who pitches it to Keith Gray running the opposite way, and the absurdly strong and fast Kalactin has one of two options. He can either run for the first down with the defense being quite out of position or he can throw it to the wide open Byron Joseph far down the field, he chooses the latter and hits Joseph who makes a man miss and scores our first touchdown. Joseph proceeded to celebrate in front of the Richardson fans who shouted some not very nice things at him, Joseph claims this was in retaliation for things yelled prior to the game and claims a teammate was hit with an object from the stands although this has yet to be confirmed.

On the final drive before halftime Richardson would find the endzone once again which was set down by a stupid roughing the passer call on Robert Lawrence. Facing a 3rd and 12 from their own 46, Bantoba stepped back and was pressured by Lawrence into just throwing it away but Lawrence whether it was on purpose as a response to what we felt were dirty Richardson shots or whether it was just a freshman not knowing when to stop but whatever it was Bantoba was knocked down on a clear roughing the passer giving Richardson an automatic first down and three plays later with the clock down to 9 seconds, Bantoba hit Dustin Devlin deep down the field burning Finn Steele and giving Richardson the 17-7 lead with the PAT heading into halftime.

Kohnhead City however walked back from halftime energized and ready to go scoring two quick touchdowns, the first being a 44 yard run from Herman Whitworth who is at almost 600 yards through three games and has been the best player on the team. The second was a 22 yard touchdown pass to our Banijan #1 receiver in Kalu Alazar who only caught three passes in his worst game on the team with Makang Secka pretty much shutting him down aside from that. In particular with the second score the Mighty Eagles celebrated harder than they would normally to the boos of the Richardson crowd.

Just like that the Mighty Eagles were up 24-17 and it looked like Richardson would once again fail against Kohnhead City however Saul Thomas Sr a bruicer on the ground just powered right through our defensive line who after dominating the last two games looked a little tired and lacked the punch we should expect from them. The drive was 12 plays and only two of them were passes with Bantoba going 1-2 for 9 yards on the drive and Thomas getting seven rushes with Roach getting three. On 2nd and Goal from the three they just once again gave it to Thomas up the gut and he followed a block from Friederich Klemens into the end zone to tie it at 24. In obvious retaliation to the over the top celebration from Kohnhead City, Richardson did the exact same thing and emotions were running high.

On the next drive things would boil over even more, the game had been quite chippy to put it mildly with more penalties than normal from two disciplined sides however the refs were content to most of the time let things play out knowing this was a high emotion game. However things got worse with a horsecollar tackle from Carl Roman on Joseph that we took offense too. Two plays later there was a blindside block on Carl Roman that resulted in Kevin Kerr picking up a penalty negating a 19 yard rush from Hastroff.

We couldn't pick up a first down following the penalty on Kerr and so we were forced to punt it back to Richardson who drove down the field and kicked a field goal. We couldn't stop their rushing attack and the play action they were able to mix in was deadly leaving us off balance and unprepared often. However we got three stops when it mattered in the redzone causing them to have to kick the field goal.

Down three here came the Mighty Eagles ready to retake the lead on a potential game winning drive, or so we thought. See the problem here was we were forced into passing more than we like because of the time constraints of the two minute warning and so after leading us down the field to around midfield, Joseph would look toward Jodi Lawrence on a comeback route and would completely miss Carl Roman (yes the same Carl Roman as before) who was sitting there and picked off the pass and take it the distance to give Richardson the 34-24 lead and win. Byron Joseph had thrown his second interception of the day and this one had proved even more costly than before.

We couldn't get far on the final drive and just like that Richardson had beaten Kohnhead City for the first time in the two programs history that dates back one season. With all the penalties, chippiness, and talking before the match Richardson did something that upset Kohnhead City fans greatly. Now whenever the Mighty Eagles win at home they leave the stadium to the tune of the Flight of the Eagles (their might song) and have a distinct celebration.

Well the Richardson loudspeaker played the song as Kohnhead City was leaving the stadium and the Richardson players did the Flight of the Eagles celebration and dance that we do adding the cherry on top to the already rivalry game. We were not able to reach Byron Joseph for comment however reports say he took the loss as well as you really can after losing and is already on to preparing for Cold Hill.

Speaking of which next week we host Cold Hill who are coming off of a 63-9 demolition of Akers and sit at 2-1, the defending champs are 2-0 against us but maybe back at Chicken King Stadium we can look to change it up.

Diego Rodriguez and the Swisston City University Army Knives improved their record to 2-1 although with Richardson and Cold Hill as their next two matches it's safe to say that will be coming down. They won 50-27 against Lismore with Rodriguez tossing an astounding five scores and 350 passing yards with the air raid offense showing its full potential in the air. If SCU can somehow upset one of the Ranoria schools we would have to put them in conversation for the conference as unlikely as it might be considering their performance against Kohnhead City. Unfortunate that the Kalactin schools play in the Big Eight as they might have a chance in another conference but for now both schools sit at 0-3 and while there's some hope for Akers with John Foster it will be another long season for them.

BIG EIGHT CONFERENCE               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Richardson University                3    3   0   114   63  +51
2 Kohnhead City University             3    2   1   150   65  +85
3 Cold Hill University                 3    2   1   132   65  +67
4 Swisston City University             3    2   1    91   92   −1
5 Akers University                     3    0   3    32  130  −98
6 Lismore Christian College            3    0   3    60  164 −104

by **Ranoria** » Wed Mar 10, 2021 9:11 pm

Slaying the Dragon:
Richardson Takes First Step Towards Avenging Last Year's Humiliation at the Hands of Kohnhead City

We're not going to say it was a blowout, because it wasn't, but damn did it feel good. The Mighty Eagles came in with all the confidence in the world, and some billboard material of their own after Richard Steinheil's comments last week after the win against Akers. This one saw some perhaps questionable, and occasionally straight up dirty in the case of Carl Roman, hits and tackles, but these two teams are now officially rivals. We can expect some of that to go down.

We needed all of our playmakers to step up for this one. Bantobamania lives on, with its namesake passer throwing his seventh passing touchdown of the season in this one (31 yards to Dustin Devlin), and still having avoided a single interception. Baraka Hali had his second hundred yard outing in three games, and runner Saul Thomas Sr continued to chug along, pushing himself to a nice half dozen touchdown runs through three games, with three hundred yards to match.

Our pass rush was virtually neutralized by the Mighty Eagles option attack, however. Robin James recorded the team's only sack after the team got off to such a hot start, especially Carlos Schmidt with 5 quarterback takedowns in the first two contests. Now, he's got 5 in the first three games. Despite that, Kade Witt recorded his second interception of the year. He's emerging as a strong ballhawking #2 to Secka's lockdown number one. It seemed the Mighty Eagles were hesitant to throw his way, perhaps not a bad strategy after the three interceptions he recorded against Deondre Rhine.

Of course, Richard Steinheil was pressed hard by the media after the game for a comment, given the nature this game has now taken on.

"Great win. Great, great win. Satisfactory performance from our guys. We made some mistakes that I'd like to correct, that Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth both made some preventable plays, but I'm sure their coach could say the same, guys like that are always going to look to improve. And yes, it feels damn good to get the weight of an 0-3 record against a conference rival off of our backs. I told you we were going to slay the dragon, and we did." When questioned about Carl Roman's horsecollar tackle on Byron Joseph, he was perhaps less bold.

"Yeah, we don't like that, we don't teach that. Gonna have a talk with him. We teach physicality and a hard-nosed style of play, especially for the defense, but that kind of penalty is unacceptable. It hurts the perception of the culture in our locker room, hurts the team on the field, just a bad play. Glad Joseph wasn't hurt. Carl's a good player, played a solid game overall, but he's going to pay for that one in practice all week."

With that being said, Richardson is off to play the 2-1 Swisston University, Kohnhead City's countrymen, and will be hoping to avoid digging themselves into another hole against one of the country's participating schools.

Cold Hill Eviscerates Akers State in 69-3 Burial:
5 Quick Takeaways From Dominant Showing

Even for Rhine, this game was unanticipated, enough for Cold Hill to forego it's usual policy of playing their starter through the game

We could bore you to death recounting this game. But we're not going to do that! You all know how it ended and we happen to like the Capitals, so we don't want to explain the entire blowout in explicit detail. Instead, we're going to give you the main things you can add to that little "Cold Hill" file in the bottom drawer in the cheap aluminum cabinet labeled "NSCF" in the back of your mind.

1: Deondre Rhine is showing no signs of slowing down in his farewell season

31/38, 469 yards, 6 touchdown passes. Over 80% completion mark, over 10% touchdown rate, over 10 yards per attempt, it's stupid. And he did all of this damage in three quarters, by the way. Through three games, that puts Rhine at 12 passing scores even with that dud of a game against Richardson to open things up. Against a quality program in the Capitals, it should be a warning to the rest of the Big 8, and the rest of the NSCF. Not that anyone is bold enough to count Rhine, who's appeared in the NSCF championship game every year of his career, out just yet.

2: Victoria Mio secured her first career pick 6, and the entire defense was dominant

If it wasn't obvious enough with the score despite a large number of possessions, Cold Hill's defense was seemingly in the right play call and executing perfectly on every snap all night. Victoria Mio snagged one of the team's four interceptions early in the second quarter and took it back for a score. That started an absolute frenzy, with Katil Jackman, Agnor Viridian, and Koman Tabor all getting in on the action. For Mio and Tabor in particular, it's a flash of the potential the true freshmen posses, potential that will need to be unlocked sooner rather than later if they are to become future core members of this team.

Better yet, the pass rush was on fire with six sacks on the day. Corrin Silva would lead the charge with two for himself while Brock Golden, Hughe Brown, Haze Herbert, and Candace Ferrett all managed to get home once as well. Ferrett, in particular, got a ton of snaps in this one. She normally pops in as a third down rusher, but with this game getting out of hand early, she was able to take the lead role after halftime.

No one asks or expects the Buffalo defense to be shutdown like this every week, but it's always nice to see that they can be. With two strip sacks that our defense recovered as well, they certainly showed what they're capable of when firing on all cylinders.

Right now, the four headed monster at edge rusher appears to be working. Corrin Silva and Hughe Brown are entrenched as the starters, but Brock Golden appears to be fighting back to his dominant freshman season form while Candace Ferrett is a known quality and an effective third down rusher.

3: Aurel Strathos promising in one quarter of action

He's no freshman sensation like Rhine was, but we can't expect any freshman to come in and match the passing touchdown mark that Thorn Davis set in his final year. That said - Strathos was accurate, decisive, and showed solid pocket presence in limited action. The team usually doesn't run the ball as much as they did with Strathos in the game, but they also usually don't give their backup quarterback any snaps. Strathos would lead three drives, going a combined 5/7 for another 77 passing yards and his first career touchdown as a Buffalo on a shovel pass to runner Brannon Hillis. Hillis, by the way, had an excellent day, with 190 yards from scrimmage and two receiving touchdowns.

Strathos's favorite target appeared to be sure-handed Cooper Canis, who he hit three times. One of those throws was a gorgeous, over the shoulder pass down the sideline for a 27 yard gain when a defensive back was covering Canis as well as he possibly could have. With snaps and opportunities in the last two games, next year's presumed starter is starting to show just why he was recruited so highly.

4: Felix Hamilton is a verifiable freak of nature

Look look, we get it, the kid, who came into this with a perplexing stat line of 2 receptions for 93 yards and 2 touchdowns, isn't a volume receiver. But he can, in fact, return punts with the best of them. On one of the few drives where the Capitals didn't either turn the ball over or score, Hamilton took the punt 71 yards for a touchdown, breaking a pair of tackles on his way and beating everyone to the edge afterwards. Hamilton has legit low 4.3, maybe high 4.2 speed, and the Buffalo would be served well to employ the sophomore more heavily in their offense.

Oh, right, and he had another touchdown tonight, from nine yards out, on one of his two receptions.

5: With a visit to powerhouse Kohnhead City looming next week, this outburst proves the Buffalo can put up points to match the Mighty Eagles

Can Rhine reliably match what Kohnhead City's electric offense has done in 2 of their 3 outings this season? Of course not. Hell, the Mighty Eagles had a couple of those last year. But the Buffalo were able to sweep the new hotshots of the Big 8 a season ago with a combination of Rhine's arm and a strong pass rush. Anyone who loves a good ol' fashioned shootout likely has next week circled on their calendar, and we can't wait to see how this one ends.

Deondre Rhine pumped his fists from the sideline as the clock struck double zeroes. This one had never been in doubt, and that was okay. It ended up being one of the most dominant performances of Cold Hill's NSCF history. Rhine capped it off by turning towards the crowd and pulling off his helmet and spreading his arms wide. His actions emboldened an already roaring crowd to reach new heights with their applause.

The announcers, who were barely audible even on television due to the decibels coming from those in attendance, read his lips as saying "Is that it!? Is that it!?"

The quarterback, all two hundred sixty pounds of him, hurdled the benches on the sideline and leapt up into the stands, where he was greeted with enthusiasm to match by Chewy the owlephant. The quarterback looked Chewie in the eye with a smirk, resting a hand on his trunk. "Hey big guy, you wanna go for a ride?" The owlephant snorted, and seemed to nod, as if he understood the language.

As if he thought he hadn't pulled enough impulsive, emblazoned stunts in college yet, Rhine would swing his way up onto Chewie's back, his exotic new best friend, trumpeting in excitement. The literally biggest fan of Buffalo football cleared the barrier with a flap of his wings and he and Rhine charged to the center of the field.

The Tundra's roaring applause was only magnified as the owlephant, Chewy, reared back and boldly let out his declaration of victory, Diamond Rhine clinging to his pet's scruff with a fist in the air, his own triumphant cry drowned out. The Buffalo faithful were only emboldened by the display, the team itself huddling around Diamond Rhine and Chewy while the students themselves stormed the field. Those intelligently dressed for the brutal weather and young, probably drunk men painted shirtless alike joined in the revelry.

Chewy seemed like he couldn't have been happier, soaking up the positive attention and occasional peanuts thrown his way, while chants ranging from "Our house!" to "Chewy!" to "Diamond Rhine" broke out across the field.

Chris Dale crossed his arms with most of the coaching staff on the sideline, pulling off his headset and shaking his head as Rhine led the entire student body, on international television, in thunderous applause. "So, has anyone figured out if that guy's actually human, yet?"

Elliot Schmitt, the quarterback coach, shrugged. "Coach, I gave up pretending to be able to give the kid advice years ago. He just has this knack of doing the exact opposite of what I tell him and making it work, almost without fail."

"For all the mischief he gets into," added offensive coordinate Daniel Booker, "He doesn't slack off, at least not in practice, and he has gotten a lot better with his film study. Don't know how the kid does it."

"Well," Chris Dale snorted, "You've seen his grades, haven't you?"

"Touche," Booker chuckled. "Let's just hope he doesn't do anything too crazy tonight."

Dale looked over to the offensive coordinator, frowning and his eyes returning to their more neutral expression. "Have you made a decision, with that Ranoria State gig?"

Booker didn't answer for a moment, and shrugged. "No. Not yet. I need to soon, or they'll move on, but I think I can elevate that program, even if just a little bit, and that's all they need. I just," he bit his lip, and then shook his head a couple seconds later, "I do like it here. We win games. It works. It's safe."

"I'm sure there are other schools that would love to have your services," Dale acknowledged, crossing his arms, "I wouldn't fault you for leaving. You've earned a shot to be the head coach of a program. In fact, if I planned on retiring any time soon, I'd say you've got the best gig in college football lined up."

by **Chromatika** » Wed Mar 10, 2021 9:44 pm

The Flame of the Firehawk: Rekindled
Part 4: Patching Up

Team   1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  |  Tot
CU      0   8   8   0  |   16
FSU     3  10   7   7  |   27

1Q
11:41 FSU FG - Sara McAllister 48 yard Field Goal

2Q
07:28 FSU TD - Nyata Antonucci 4 yard run (Sara McAllister Kick)
07:12 CU TD - Ozzy Otten 105 yard kickoff return (Deon Beverly Run)
01:03 FSU FG - Sara McAllister 36 yard Field Goal

3Q
12:15 CU TD - Joe Johan 21 yard pass from Seb Rosario (Jonathan Kimbrough pass from Seb Rosario)
04:09 FSU TD - Niles Gwivern 21 yard pass from Sarai Gwenderyn (Sara McAllister Kick)

4Q
08:11 FSU TD - Sarai Gwenderyn 1 yard run (Sara McAllister Kick)

CAVSAR, DRAWKLAND - Still smarting from the dramatic, blocked extra point defeat against Sadeg State, Felswyr State headed to Drawkland and took care of business in the second half, prevailing in a 27-16 victory away at Roy Memorial Stadium.

The Gladiators' best player ended up being Ozzy Otten, who returned a kickoff for 105 yards for a Touchdown right after the Firehawks had taken a ten-point lead. Otten ran through the tackles of Andrei Morales and Aria Konen and outstripped everyone else. He also was the one responsible for the 52 yard punt return that set up Cavsar in prime position that led to the Gladiators' second touchdown, leading to Cavsar taking a 16-13 lead.

It was then that Felswyr stepped up. Sarai Gwenderyn has been learning how to play against Drawkians - she was only sacked three times by the Gladiators - and was at her best in a 12-play, 83 yard drive where the Firehawks converted four straight third downs. At the end, her fake handoff froze three Gladiator defenders and she was able to find Niles Gwivern in the flat for a 21 yard touchdown.

A few drives later, Cavsar had another chance - Seb Rosario had taken the Gladiators to the Felswyr State 32. Then, on a routine play, Mi-Hyeon Park met Deon Beverly in the backfield, and the hit was so jarring that it resulted in a fumble. Amber Li picked up the ball and was barely caught by a speeding Joe Johan at the 2 yard line. Two plays later, Sarai Gwenderyn was in the end zone, and the game was all but over.

It was a bounceback performance from Gwenderyn, whose ground game was still stymied by the Drawkians' size. She completed 20 of 31 passes for 241 yards, a passing touchdown, and a rushing touchdown. Nyata Antonucci, the shot yardage back/receiver, added the second score of her young career. She'll be hoping that against non-Drawkian schools, she'll be able to start contributing more to the ground game.

The bigger issue, though, is the play of the FSU defense. They're not horrible - allowing 17 points a game isn't a problem, per say - but it's a bit surprising given just how dominant the defense was last season. They're conceding eight points more than they did.

What are the reasons? Well... First, teams have tape on the Firehawks. Familiarity is a thing, and the Drawkians at least have figured out how to beat them. Second, losing the seniors that they lost didn't help. Cara Setri, Parry Mioto, Candice Jones, and Nikolai Dimitrov were key pieces to the defense, and their loss is being keenly felt. Replacing them are the recruits that the Firehawks have signed, and the likes of Konstantin Vollmacht, Sage "Bricks" Sterling, Ozioma Mazzi, and Katie Sawyer are learning their roles. It may take some time, but there is hope.

With Laneca University and Hoofstra University to round things out, Felswyr State needs to step up. If they concede more than ten points to either of those schools, it may actually be time to panic.

But for now? They'll take the win and get out of Drawkland having gone 1-1. It's enough.

CCGC Week 3 - Staramara Technical University vs. Deprí Lanar University: Twila Sruggs's Interception Return with Two Minutes Left Send Warriors over Lava

Team   1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  |  Tot
STU     0   0   6   0  |    6
DLU     3   3   0   7  |   13

1Q
06:28 DLU FG - Caitlyn Bowens 37 yard Field Goal

2Q
12:38 DLU FG - Caitlyn Bowens 49 yard Field Goal

3Q
08:59 STU TD - Ardell Moreau 19 yard run (Vaugh Steadman Kick Blocked)

4Q
00:28 DLU TD - Twila Sruggs 95 yard interception return (Caitlyn Bowens Kick)

STARMARA - A pick of a quick pass to the sideline by Sheilah Pantoja by Senior Cornerback Twila Sruggs led to a dramatic finish as Sruggs returned that interception all the way for the deciding score as the Warriors got out of Staramara with a 2-1 record in Week 3 CCGC play.

It had been a tightly defensive affair as Ardell Moreau was held in check by the Warriors, a testament to the strength of their linebacker core. The star Lava running back finished with 121 yards on 37 carries and a touchdown as it was this containment that led to the fateful pass by Sheilah Pantoja. Nanci Hamby led the way for the Warriors with 13 tackles, 3 of them for a loss.

"We knew what they were going to do," stated Giles Minod, the Warriors' Defensive Coordinator, "And Nanci was ready for it. Hodling Moreau to barely over a hundred yards is great. I hope we're able to keep it up."

However, the Lava defense was also here to play. Dario Clementine was harassed throughout the game, leading to two medium-ranged field goals by the Warriors offense as SS Ying Taggart had two sacks and an interception.

"It was difficult out there," admitted Clementine, "Their crowd is passionate, the team is gritty, and they play hard.

How did the last magical play happen?

Pantoja's throws most of the game had been quick check downs to Moreau, Borden, and Weathers. This particular game, her favorite target had been Weathers. Sruggs had noticed it on a few plays, and knew the play before it happened.

"I just knew," she stated after the match, "And I was able to get in front of it."

The risk about quick passes is that if you get picked, there is almost no chance for a tackle. Sruggs was able to outrace the rest of the field to the end zone for the decisive score.

"She's a special player," interjected Minod, "That's one for the history books."

Staramara will try to bounce back against Deprí Sanar in Week 4 while the Warriors return home to host the Hellcats of Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology.

CCGC Week 3 - Deprí Sanar University vs. Chromia Central College University: Kreston's Best Day Sees Comets to Their First Win

Team   1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  |  Tot
DSU     6   7   3   7  |   23
CCCU    5  14  14   7  |   40

1Q
14:38 CCCU Safety - Wade Jordan tackle in the end zone for a safety
10:19 DSU FG - Earnestine Castellanos 42 yard Field Goal
06:01 CCCU FG - Amanda Jiggs 38 yard Field Goal
02:58 DSU FG - Earnestine Castellanos 38 yard Field Goal

2Q
12:43 CCCU TD - Marquis de Francine 31 yard pass from Todd Kreston (Amanda Jiggs Kick)
07:41 DSU TD - Margit Ferry 11 yard pass from Sammie Flynn (Amanda Jiggs Kick)
01:20 CCCU TD - Mark Lett 63 yard pass from Todd Kreston (Amanda Jiggs Kick)

3Q
12:05 DSU FG - Earnestine Castellanos 41 yard Field Goal
11:32 CCCU TD - Jillian Nickerson 29 yard pass from Todd Kreston (Amanda Jiggs Kick)
03:11 CCCU TD - Mark Lett 42 yard pass from Todd Kreston (Amanda Jiggs Kick)

4Q
13:22 CCCU TD - Carson Prince 4 yard pass from Todd Kreston (Amanda Jiggs Kick)
01:14 DSU TD - Sammie Flynn 3 yard run (Earnestine Castellanos Kick)

DEPRI SANAR - In a game that showed why he had been touted so highly, Todd Kreston had the best game of his Comets career to date, completing 38 of 46 passes for 407 yards and 5 touchdowns as the Chromia Central College University Comets took care of the Deprí Sanar University Spartans in Cambrio Stadium.

Kreston had really struggled against Deprí Lanar University and Staramara Technical University but showed some life against the Lava. In this game, however, he could do no wrong starting in the second quarter. Completing sixteen passes in a row at one point, he was clinical in both the intermediate and long range passes, with Mark Lett being his favorite target. The Junior Wide Receiver caught 8 of the passes for 182 yards and 2 touchdowns, often times just splitting Emmy Mireles and Dorinda Madrid. Jillian Nickerson, Marquis de Francine, and Carson Prince were the recipients of the other three touchdowns.

For Deprí Sanar University, Sammie Flynn was decent but not spectacular. The Spartan completed 18 of 23 passes for 213 yards, a passing touchdown, and a rushing touchdown in the losing affair. The trio of Evers, Perryman, and Ferry were mostly contained by the CCCU secondary, who were prefect in the bend-but-not-break strategy as DSU added a touchdown in garbage time.

'I think I was able to see the game more clearly out there," admitted Kreston after the game, "I have to give credit to Fritz our OC and to the boys up front. I was hardly hit, and that gave me the space to work."

When asked about next week's matchup with Nobuko Matos of University of Myana, he answered, "He's been one of the better quarterbacks so far, so it'll be exciting to go up against him."

Deprí Sanar will try to rebound in Staramara while CCCU will host the Vipers next week.

CCGC Week 3 - University of Myana vs. Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology: Vipers Remain Perfect Behind Matos, Cano

Team   1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  |  Tot
UM      3  13  13   7  |   36
ZIoT    3  14   7   3  |   27

1Q
11:05 UM FG - Shirley Woo 49 yard Field Goal
06:11 ZIoT Nydia Leon 41 yard Field Goal

2Q
12:18 UM FG - Shirley Woo 32 yard Field Goal
09:38 UM FG - Shirley Woo 39 yard Field Goal
05:02 UM TD - Foster Gallgher 24 yard pass from Nobuko Matos (Shirley Woo Kick)
03:26 ZIoT TD - Frederick Lance 27 yard run (Nydia Leon Kick)
00:29 ZIoT TD - Tory O'Bryan 62 yard pass from Teresia Goldman (Nydia Leon Kick)

3Q
12:28 UM FG - Shirley Woo 41 yard Field Goal
05:28 ZIoT TD - Zina Cochran 25 yard pass from Teresia Goldman (Nydia Leon Kick)
04:21 UM FG - Shirley Woo 46 yard Field Goal
03:17 UM TD - Hwa Cano 22 yard interception return (Shirley Woo Kick)

4Q
10:45 ZIoT FG - Nydia Leon 38 yard Field Goal
02:11 UM TD - Hwa Cano 68 yard interception return (Shirley Woo Kick)

MYANA - Back home for the first time this season, Nobuko Matos and Hwa Cano led the way for the Vipers as they withheld a valiant effort from Teresia Goldman and the Hellcats as the UM Vipers remained the only undefeated team in the CCGC after a 36-27 victory.

The first half was a back-and-forth affair, with Shirley Woo and Nydia Leon exchanging Field Goals as both Quarterbacks could breach the other side of the field but couldn't get too close to the end zone. Goldman was doing well in reading the Vipers defense while Matos was keeping up with his sheer athleticism. Matos was the first to strike in finding a wide open Foster Gallgher in the middle, but then Goldman was able to find Espion for a huge gain, leading to a decent run by Frederick Lance. The next drive, Matos was sacked by Ned Mustus, who forced a fumble just as the Vipers were nearing the Hellcat thirty yard line. Two plays later, Goldman found a Tory O'Bryan on a stop and go route, and the Sophomore receiver ran past Felicitas Cabral to put the Hellcats up a point at half.

Things looked like it'd be the same in the third quarter. After Shirley Woo added on another field goal, Goldman was on it again. Zina Cochran's catch was a diving one, and the Hellcats were up once again; the Vipers couldn't do anything except answer by another field goal, which left the game at 24-22.

It was then that Hwa Cano took over the game. The Junior Strong Safety leapt in front of a pass in front of Melisa Espion and waltzed into the end zone.

In the fourth quarter, it was Z'ai'ai's turn to try to get back into the game. A Nydia Leon Field Goal got them within two, and Goldman had the Hellcats knocking on the door around the UM 30 yard line with 02:11 remaining.

Then, Goldman was pressured by Charleen Diehl, and the resulting hurried pass was picked off by - guess who - Hwa Cano, who took it back 68 yards for the deciding score.

Theresia Goldman still contributed 268 yards and two touchdowns along with the two interceptions, while Matos added 206 yards and a score in the victory.

"It was fun to go against her," mentioned Matos after the match, "She's a competitor and someone who's fun to compete against."

Hellcats coach Emogene Delossantos wasn't too concerned about his young Quarterback.

"She'll learn," he said in the postgame conference, "This will be a good experience and she'll get better because of it."

University of Myana will try to contend with a return-to-form Todd Kreston and the Comets next, while the Hellcats travel to Deprí Lanar next.

by **Banija** » Thu Mar 11, 2021 8:27 am

Vallienté Wagner-Young, the Thursday before the Northern v. Loyola-Istria game

..... "And that, kids, is why Wilhelm was crowned the first King of Teusland, all the way back in 1238." The Professor said. "Look- I see, the clock. Class is dismissed for today." Wagner-Young started to pack up his books, like everybody else. "Oh, I got one more thing." The Professor said. Everybody stopped and look at her. "Vallienté?" She said. Vallienté simply nodded. "Give 'em hell on Saturday. You know, my husband is a Loyola fan- terrible, terrible I know. I'm quite enjoying this three game winning streak we have against them. Let's make it four!"

The class cheered as Vallienté sheepishly grinned. They really took this rivalry seriously at Northern Moravica. Vallienté had never experienced anything like it. Except for last year, of course, but he was just the backup then. Since they played each other twice a year, the home game for Northern Moravica was always the celebrated 'rivalry week' campus celebration. And Thursday, two nights before the game, was the pep rally(since the players needed to sleep early on Friday).

Being the quarterback at a football obsessed school meant you were the man(or woman) on campus. This was true for every NSCF school- from whatever antics Diamond Rhine would pull at Cold Hill, to Bantoba at Richardson, to wherever. But during rivalry week? It was at a whole different level. The entire week, random people would walk up to him, telling him to 'give Loyola hell'. And this wasn't just students. Professors, janitors, etc...

And, of course, the pranks that would be played. Right on the center of campus, they had woken up Tuesday to massive blue 'LOYOLA' lttering, spray painted on a central walkway right in front of the School for Arts & Literature. And now, whenever you walked past that spot, you had different fraternities acting as 'guards'. As Vallienté left class, he saw Addo Kargbo, the left guard. "Hey Addo, wait up!" Vallienté said as he jogged to meet one of his linemen. "Dude, man, rivalry week is always insane at this school."

"Oh yea it is." Addo Kargbo said. "And everyone wearing red today too- it's like looking at the student section." They agreed and kept talking, walking towards the student union to grab some lunch. But the scene there was beyond anything you'd ever seen, even for a rivalry this big. This was the biggest edition of this rivalry in a while. The first time both teams were undefeated when they met up since NSCF 20. And last year, specifically, when both were swept by the Salamantic Universities, it was a little bit less hype. But now- the hype meter was at an eleven on a 1-10 scale, and the game wasn't for 48 hours.

There was a huge "N" flag hanging on the walls of the cafeteria. As they went to the athletes table, some students saw Vallienté, and one started chanting "Beat Loyola", as eventually the whole room chanted "Beat Loyola" for about 10-15 seconds. Vallienté gave a wave, everyone gave a small cheer, and then went back to eating. "Damn, everyone is ready for Saturday." Vallienté told a few of his teammates who were there. "Man, we gotta beat Loyola. How insane will this place be?" He talked with them and a few of the women's soccer players as he ate his salad. After about a half hour, he left. "Hey, it's Quarterback room day- I gotta go." Vallienté said to his teammates. Waved and fist bumped goodbye, and left the student union.

It was a longer walk than usual because of the excitement for Saturday's game. But when he got to the practice facility, he was surprised to see Coach Kabuye, who usually did not attend his Quarterbacks meeting. "Coach! What are you doing here?" Vallienté said to the head coach.

"There's something I'd like you to meet, Vallienté." Lance Kabuye said. And as he said that, Northern Moravica alumnus and NSCF 19 champion, Chae-Heung Kim, walked into the room.

"Holy shit, Chae-Heung!" Vallienté exclaimed. "You're here today? What brings you around?"

"Well, it's the bye week for my pro team, so I figured I'd come by the old stomping grounds. Here man- let's have a chat." The two sat down, as Coach Kabuye walked away. The other quarterbacks walked into the building right after that, and joined them. "How you feeling kid?" Chae-Heung said. "You nervous?"

"Holy shit man- how do you deal with this pressure?" Vallienté said. "Dude there's so much. Random kids talking to me. The pep rally tonight. Everyone's wearing freaking colors on campus."

"Look, I know about nerves man, at this level." Chae-Heung Kim said. "You know my record- I've played in two NSCF title games. I won a playoff game at the Lightning Yard- disgusting stadium, by the way. That's part of the reason why I'm here- to help relieve pressure off you. Don't worry about writing a speech tonight for the pep rally. I'm gonna speak instead. Everybody will be hyped. Just focus on the game. Focus on what the coaches are telling you, man. They give great advice. Northern Moravica- this school is a brotherhood. We all got your backs."

"Thanks." Vallienté responded. "But how do you calm down? I've nervous felt these kind of butterflies in my stomach before a game, but man, this is gonna be nuts."

"Just relieve pressure on yourself. It all comes down to football." Chae-Heung Kim said. "Don't worry about legacy, how others will think of you, none of that shit. Just worry about the X's and O's. That's what wins on Saturday. Big picture will take care of itself. Just think- what are the coverages we are attacking? What are the weaknesses are coaches defined? Don't be nervous- this is a time to be excited, especially for the home game. And hell man, when we're 4-0 and they're 3-1, we can tell every single Loyola person to go straight to he- I'm sorry. But yea. You got this man! Just study up."

Wagner-Young thanked the Quebecois NMU grad, and he went with his backups to film room. Two more days until the biggest game of his young career, right?

Loyola head coach Alanso Isa on Gameday, in the locker room before kickoff

"Hey boys- listen up!" Alanso Isa said to his players.

"Look, there's a lot of noise around this game. Both literally-" they could hear Northern fans cheering their marching band from inside the locker room. "and metaphorically. We know what this game means. We're 3-0. They're 3-0. Hasn't happened in a few seasons. Winner will get a big head start in terms of our ability to win this conference. And hell, when it's Loyola v. Northern, you know how it is. Throw out the records. It's always a big deal."

"Remember what we are here to do." Isa continued. "Remember who we are here to represent. Not just ourselves. Ambassadors for our community. Our fellow students. Anyone who has ever had the fortune to put on the jersey that you are wearing right now. That clean white. Anyone who will have the fortune of putting on that jersey in the future. These are the games that make Loyola football not just a unique time of your life, but that make Loyola-Istria the lifelong brotherhood. Fight for each other on that field."

"These are the type of games you sign up for when you come to Loyola. You know why you wanted to come to Loyola? You enjoy that target on your backs. That ever incessant need to continually get better. We, by far, have the strongest set of rivalries in the NSCF- it isn't even close. We're going to get two hellish games against Northern Moravica. You saw what it was like last week, when we took on the Salamantic Universities at home. The intensity level turned up to an 11. You'll feel that again when we play Felswyr State, and another time when we fly out to Ranoria in Week 13."

"These are the exact games that make this sport so god damn great. And look- this year, is our redemption year. That's been the theme from Day 1. From Spring Practice, to the dog days of Summer. I have seen you guys all go out, and put in the work. The only way you can earn glory now is if you prepare for it in the Summer, in the weight room, in the film room. We've all seen you guys do it. But we've got to implement what we have gathered, under pressure. Respect yourselves! Nobody can make jokes about the Salamantic Universities being champions of Banija any longer."

There was a knock on the door. It was time for them to leave the locker room. "OK guys, gather around!" And everybody stood up and put their hands in the middle. "Do this for the brotherhood. Go out on that field, and leave everything you got on this field. That's the price it takes to win games like these, to beat a team like this."

Amadi Ikenna, the quarterback, then yelled. "C'mon guys! Blue Thunder on three- 1! 2! 3!"

"BLUE THUNDER!" The locker room yelled. They then walked out of the locker room, with their coach and captains in front. Amadi Ikenna was handed a Banijan flag, while Markos Mesay held the school flag. They walked out to the edge of the field. Alanso Isa turned around, gave his signal, and they sprinted out onto the field to a nearly deafening roar of boos. Which, hey- that's exactly what one would expect in this rivalry, right? Isa simply smiled as he corralled his team to the away sideline. Three consecutive losses to Northern- he did not want a forth. He glanced at the trophy as Northern paraded it out. Come hell or high water, he was bringing that trophy back with him to Istria tonight.

by **Cassadaigua** » Thu Mar 11, 2021 5:09 pm

A glimpse of what we could do,
By Lauren Piscotty, New Lakeland University Student Press

The Universidad de Barvard is not one of the top teams in the NSCF. Like us, they are new to this competition, and playing here in the Woodlands Conference. With a 1-1 record just like us, they still seemed like someone who could give us a hard time. However, the tailgaters at Stephanie H. Wiseman had other ideas. They sensed blood in the water, almost, knowing that we were not about to play a school from Quebec. On campus, we have been getting the vibe that third place is the goal for this team, and this seemed like a great day to have our first home win at this level.

Students, faculty, alumni, and even students from rival institutions were on hand to root for the Tycoons. Jenna Oglethorpe, who is a senior at the University of Concord Heights told me that, “This is awesome. I mean, it’s not like we are jealous that NLU is in the NSCF or anything, but you know, this is really cool. I would love to feel this in Concord Heights. But in the meantime, why not be here? Why not support our school that is playing in this? I had never gone to New Lakeland before, so it was a bit of an excuse to come out here.” Oglethorpe was part of a group of about twelve or so students from UCH that made a weekend trip out here. We’re sure there were people from other schools here too, making it really cool that New Lakeland University can be Cassadaigua’s team. That wasn’t lost on Nicole Geraghty, an NLU alum who was tailgating near the UCH students. “It’s great for us to come together like this. We can root against one another all we want, but it’s nice to them getting behind the Tycoons as Cassadagans. If Tycoon fever spreads all throughout the country, instead of just in this area, it is a tremendous honor for this school and for our community.”

On the field, Erika Traynor showed the Honey Badgers why she is an elite quarterback in Cassadaigua and one that should be a top pick in the draft. The Fillies scored touchdowns on their first three possessions, with Traynor hooking up twice with Shannon Ross early on (31 and 21 yards), and the third being Taylor Oakes run from five yards out. The highlight of the day for Barvard was probably the blocked extra point after the Oakes score, keeping it 20-0. After exchanging field goals, the Tycoons headed into the halftime period with a 23-3 lead, and getting the sold out crowd super excited.

The second half began with a pick-six from Jessica Passarelli, and the teams exchanged field goals again to make it 30-6. Traynor wasn’t done, though, and in college football, you always want to keep scoring if you have the chances too, and when you’re on, you’re on. New Lakeland kept pouring it on, and Traynor connected with Stacey Maltzman from 25 to make it 36-6 (the PAT was no good), and finished off the scoring with a 38-yard pass to freshman Amber Blankenship to finish off the scoring, giving the team a 43-6 win. Of the win, Traynor told me that, “Everything worked well today. Getting the big lead was great, and we never let up which is great. We have to take advantage of any opportunity we get, but the next one is going to be much, much, more difficult.” That is a road game against reigning Woodlands Champion Université du Saguenay, and they have been strong so far. Of the game, Traynor said, “I am excited for the game. These are the games that help you grow as a player, and grow as a team. It’s a powerful opponent, but we are going to play as hard as we can.”

by **Kohnhead** » Thu Mar 11, 2021 6:05 pm

KSPN Power Rankings: Week 3

Week 3 has come and gone and with it we saw some more vitally important matches and for the first time this year, we will have changes in the top three including a change at number one. There will also definitely be lots of changes throughout the list as the season heats up and we start finding out more and more about each of the teams.

1. Richardson University - Ranoria (+3)
Conference: Big Eight (1st)
Record: 3-0
Last Week: Defeated Kohnhead City 34-24

Fine Richardson take your first place away from Cold Hill, you deserve it. It was a very competitive game between Richardson and Kohnhead City and unlike the first three times they played the Governors were able to walk away victorious. The big thing with this has obviously got to be Richardson's offense coming out and putting up 27 (the defense recorded a pick six) and with emotions running high once again they got the best of their newfound rivals. They deserve to celebrate and have beaten the defending champs and a reigning semifinalist by double digits and have looked like the best team in the NSCF. I don't know if they have the strength to beat both Cold Hill and Kohnhead City the second time around but am I going to doubt them after what they've done so far, hell no.

2. Raynor University - Valanora (+/- 0)
Conference: Zephyr (1st)
Record: 3-0
Last Week: Defeated Ceneisis Naval Academy 31-3

It's obvious why Raynor aren't in first, they don't have the strength of schedule that is required. The Ceneisis Naval Academy is 1-2 in the midst of a down season, and Bowerstone just got absolutely annihilated by Mar Sara. If Mar Sara continues to prove their worthiness and Raynor sweeps them then we can have a conversation about putting them in first but with what Richardson has done there's absolutely not enough justification to have Raynor above them. The real test for Raynor will come with their difficult non-conference schedule which will allow us to see if they are just products of an easy Zephyr Conference.

3. University of Loyola-Istria - Banija(+/- 0)
Conference: Celestia (1st)
Record: 3-0
Last Week: Defeated Salamantic 24-17

Revenge is sweet for Loyola-Istria who after getting swept by Salamantic Universities last season which was one of the primary reasons for them failing to make the playoffs defeated them by one score. Salamantic just don't seem to have that same closing ability they had last year and have dropped to 1-2 albeit with losses to Loyola and UNM two high quality teams. Next week however is the rivalry game, where Loyola-Istria travel to Northern Moravica for the first edition this season and it's sure to be an exciting one with both teams at 3-0 following disappointing seasons where they look much improved and motivated.

4. University of Cold HIll - Ranoria (-3)
Conference: Big Eight (2nd)
Record: 2-1
Last Week: Defeated Akers 63-9

This is less of a reflection on how Cold Hill played last week and more of a reflection on the wins the teams above them were able to pick up. While we here at KSPN still belive that Cold Hill is the best team in the NSCF, we could not put them ahead of Richardson for any longer and with Loyola-Istria and Raynor picking up big wins while Cold Hill beat up on an 0-3 team there wasn't really much they could do to change this. Rhine was not high this game and so he played a lot better and the Cold Hill defense absolutely dominated John Foster and Akers, Cold Hill were up by so much they even pulled the starters which is not something they normally do. They play Kohnhead City next week in what should be a really high stakes matchup at Chicken King Stadium.

5. Felswyr State University - Chromatika (+/- 0)
Conference: Horizon (1st)
Record: 2-1
Last Week: Defeated Cavsar 27-16

FSU have definitely not been what they were last season thus far and found themselves trailing 16-13 midway through the third quarter with the defense that had been so dominant last season not really living up to standards giving Ozzy Otten a 105 yard kickoff return for a touchdown and multiple good punt returns. While some might so that's not defense I firmly believe that coverage on special teams given that it's mainly defenders and a variety of other factors should be taken into account when it comes to defense. Sarai Gwenderyn had a bounceback game against Cavsar although going up against anyone from Drawkland is tough due to their size but she managed to complete 20 of her 31 passes for almost 250 yards a good showing from the reigning Most Outstanding Player. FSU round out their first half with some easier opponents but they have yet to impress much like Sadeg State but sit above them because we believe in what this team did last year and belive the defense especially will figure it out.

6. Sadeg State University - Drawkland (+/- 0)
Conference: Horizon (2nd)
Record: 3-0
Last Week: Defeated Laneca 23-10

Yes Sadeg State have failed to impress in any of their three victories, however they are 3-0 with a talented roster having knocked off Felswyr State and Cavsar already this season. It hasn't been pretty by any means but Sadeg State are getting the job done and that's something that really matters especially as the season heats up. While they should be beating Laneca by a lot more they will be right ahead of Northern Moravica although that could change depending on how they fare against Loyola.

7. Northern Moravica University - Banija (+1)
Conference: Celestia (2nd)
Record: 3-0
Last Week: Defeated Fair Haven State 52-30

Taking on Fair Haven State from Barnettsville, Northern Moravica coming off of their big comeback win against Salamantic had a much easier matchup and won 52-30 in a game where they dominated offensively and the defense allowed 30 points although it never appeared to be in doubt. NMU passed their first big test of the year against Salamantic but that win will pretty much be forgotten if they don't show up against Loyola-Istria in one if not the biggest rivalries in college football. This game and the second matchup are probably going to be the ones that determine the Celestia so it is of even more importance than normal.

8. Université du Saguenay - Quebec and Shingoryeo (+1)
Conference: Woodlands (1st)
Record: 3-0
Last Week: Defeated New Springs 44-10

The third best offense in the NSCF keeps humming along as Saguenay took down an 0-3 New Springs team that never had a chance in this one as a matchup with also undefeated and also from Quebec Université St. Croix looms. Université St. Croix have yet to make an appearance on the top 10 but are listed under the next schools out category and both schools have looked really good early. The big matchup between the two isn't for another two weeks but it should be really hype when it does happen. UDS have slowly climbed up the rankings gaining one rank at a time with every win and unless St. Croix shows me that they are good enough, I don't think anyone in the Woodlands can stop them.

9. Kohnhead City University - Kohnhead (-2)
Conference: Big Eight (3rd)
Record: 2-1
Last Week: Lost to Richardson 34-24

The third best team in the Big Eight and best offense in the NSCF finally lost to Richardson having gone 3-0 against them a season prior and while they kept it close ultimately couldn't win again at Dietrich Stadium. We will really get a chance to see how Byron Joseph and Herman Whitworth respond to this when they host the reigning champs Cold Hill a team they are 0-2 against having gotten blown out both times last season. A 6-4 record is looking like a large possibility with how the Ranorian teams have played and while I think they're a lot better than that the strenght of the conference might weigh them down.

10. University of the Commonwealth - Commonwealth of Baker Park (N/A)
Conference: Mineral (1st)
Record: 3-0
Last Week: Defeated Freedom's Altar 31-0

The Commonwealth look ready to try and take back the Mineral Conference and a spot in the playoffs and have been given the final spot on these power rankings following their 31-0 blanking of a previously unbeaten Freedom's Altar squad. It was between them and SAFA for the final spot who barely held on against Trent State and who aside from their first game haven't really impressed me too much especially on defense. We all know what really matters is the week 5 showdown at College Hill where the Commonwealth wil preapre to avenge their Mineral Conference loss last year.

First Five Out: Squidroidia Armed Forces Academy, Salamantic Universities, Mar Sara Tech, Université St. Croix, New Lakeland University

Conference Totals
Big Eight: 3
Celestia: 2
Horizon: 2
Zephyr: 1
Woodlands: 1
Mineral: 1

by **Quebec and Shingoryeo** » Thu Mar 11, 2021 9:00 pm

Celestia & Zephyr
MD4 Cutoff!

Celestia Conference
Fair Haven State Blue Jays (BAR) 30–23 Northern Dinagat State Panthers (BAR)
Salamantic Universities Professors (KOR) 16–0 University of Waikoloa Village Humuhumunukunukuapua'a (UVI)
Northern Moravica University Cougars (BNJ) 30–30 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder (BNJ) (30–37 OT)

# Celestia Conference                                          Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder (BNJ)                 4    4   0   151   74  +77
2 Northern Moravica University Cougars (BNJ)                     4    3   1   138   92  +46
3 Salamantic Universities Professors (KOR)                       4    2   2    62   43  +19
4 Fair Haven State Blue Jays (BAR)                               4    2   2    93  102   −9
5 Northern Dinagat State Panthers (BAR)                          4    1   3    98  139  −41
6 University of Waikoloa Village Humuhumunukunukuapua'a (UVI)    4    0   4    36  128  −92

Zephyr Conference
Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns (AFT) 41–18 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists (NGD)
Bowerstone University Bearcats (ATH) 27–0 Stevan Vaalburger Academy Shieldwall (ALS)
Mar Sara Tech Raiders (VAL) 34–31 Raynor University Rockets (VAL)

# Zephyr Conference                                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Mar Sara Tech Raiders (VAL)                           4    4   0   140   81  +59
2 Raynor University Rockets (VAL)                       4    3   1   171   69 +102
3 Bowerstone University Bearcats (ATH)                  4    2   2    93  123  −30
4 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns (AFT)                  4    2   2    81   75   +6
5 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists (NGD)    4    1   3    88  137  −49
6 Stevan Vaalburger Academy Shieldwall (ALS)            4    0   4    35  123  −88

by **Drawkland** » Thu Mar 11, 2021 10:02 pm

Big Eight & Woodlands
MD4

Middle cutoff? Enticing ...

BIG EIGHT
Lismore Christian College 41–44 Akers University
Kohnhead City University 43–6 Cold Hill University
Swisston City University 44–33 Richardson University

  BIG EIGHT CONFERENCE               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Kohnhead City University             4    3   1   193   71 +122
2 Richardson University                4    3   1   147  107  +40
3 Swisston City University             4    3   1   135  125  +10
4 Cold Hill University                 4    2   2   138  108  +30
5 Akers University                     4    1   3    76  171  −95
6 Lismore Christian College            4    0   4   101  208 −107

WOODLANDS
New Springs University 17–31 Xannerian Polytechnical Institute
Universidad de Barvard 9–27 Université St. Croix
Université du Saguenay 31–43 New Lakeland University

  WOODLANDS CONFERENCE               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Université St. Croix                 4    4   0   153   55  +98
2 New Lakeland University              4    3   1   117   77  +40
3 Université du Saguenay               4    3   1   167   90  +77
4 Universidad de Barvard               4    1   3    72  109  −37
5 Xannerian Polytechnical Institute    4    1   3    61  145  −84
6 New Springs University               4    0   4    63  157  −94

by **Northwest Kalactin** » Thu Mar 11, 2021 10:03 pm

Mineral and Horizon MD 4 Cutoff

Mineral Conference
Syracuse State University (CRL) 40–55 University of the Commonwealth (CBP)
Squidroidia Armed Forces Academy (SQR) 24–34 Freedom's Altar University (YSP)
Vietussia Academy (UNV) 9–33 Trent State University (TJU)

  Mineral Conference                      Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 University of the Commonwealth            4    4   0   150   65  +85
2 Freedom's Altar University                4    3   1    61   68   −7
3 Squidroidia Armed Forces Academy          4    3   1   151   87  +64
4 Trent State University                    4    1   3    85   86   −1
5 Syracuse State University                 4    1   3    80  153  −73
6 Vietussia Academy                         4    0   4    79  147  −68

Horizon Conference
Hoofstra University (KRD) 9–34 Felswyr State University (CMT)
Laneca University (GRC) 9–43 Cavsar University (DRK)
Rickendor Central University (HTK) 7–23 Sadeg State University (DRK)

  Horizon Conference                  Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD
1 Sadeg State University                4    4   0    96   65  +31
2 Felswyr State University              4    3   1   122   60  +62
3 Cavsar University                     4    2   2   112   82  +30
4 Laneca University                     4    1   3    75  103  −28
5 Hoofstra University                   4    1   3    44   68  −24
6 Rickendor Central University          4    1   3    53  124  −71

by **Valanora** » Fri Mar 12, 2021 12:07 am

Valanora Times
Let the Chaos Flow

In the penultimate week to the halfway point of the season, there were a lot of keen eyes watching the games around the NSCF scene, as several big games were be playing out across the fields. What unfolded across the fields was nothing short of an absolute onslaught of chaos and the entire hierarchy of the gridiron landscape was flipped on its head. They will be talking about what transpired in this week of gridiron for weeks, months, perhaps even years to come with all the crazy scores that were put on the scoreboard across the different stadiums, including the one played inside the Vanorian homeland. With a whole host of crazy results, it also has its effects on that of the power rankings, as how we view all the schools taking part in the NSCF with a whole different outlook than we did before the week's games. How drastically different do the results make the rankings and is there perhaps a few surprise inclusions or omissions in this week's edition of the rankings? Let us answer all that and more as we unfold the top 10 power rankings for this, the penultimate week of the haflway point to the regular season.

10. University of the Commonwealth (CBP) Mineral - The Baker Park team impressed this week, putting up fifty-five points on the road against Syracuse in their fifteen point victory to keep a perfect record and the lead of the Mineral conference. The Mineral however on the all important eye test does not look to hold up to the same strength as other conferences and they will need to keep up the perfect record if they wish to ascend up the rankings ladder.

9. Richardson University (RAN) Big Eight - From the top of the hill to nearly falling out of the top ten entirely after being upset away to Swisston City, a result that takes them not only from the top of the power rankings but also the Big Eight and now into a tie with Swisston City and another for first. An eleven point loss though is hard to overlook and thus the fall on a weekend that was very heartbreaking for those in Ranoria.

8. Université St. Croix (QUE) Woodlands - There is some good conversation that USC should be higher up this, however much like the University of the Commonwealth, they are suffering from the perception that they are dominating in what is a very weak conference this season. We really will not know how good USC (nor the University of the Commonwealth) are until the out of conference season schedule hits. For now, they are a perfect four wins from four and have looked quite dominant in doing so, with nearly triple digit point differential, the best of the undefeated teams.

7. Kohnhead City University (KHN) Big Eight - And here we have the other reason why hearts are going to be in dissaray. Kohnhead City was hosting the holders of the trophy and absolutely dropped the hammer on the championship retainers, keeping Cold Hill to just six points while putting up over forty themselves in front of the home field and turning the Big Eight into quite a wide open conference here at the halfway point. It was believed before the season started that the Big Eight was four teams deep and it is looking like that is quite true, which would make it the deepest and in some eyes the strongest conference there is. If that perception continues along with Kohnhead CIty's success, they will be rocketing up the rankings with little issue.

6. Northern Moravica University (BNJ) Celestia - The Cougars went into the big match up with Loyola-Istria knowing that one team was going to lose its perfect start to the season and they might have had the advantage with having the home game. However they were undone in extra time and have to suffer in seeing their rivals celebrate on the field and now off of it as well, with the Blue Thunder cementing their place above their countryman in the rankings with that victory. If they are to return to a top five status, they will need to make sure not to let one loss beat them twice.

5. Raynor University (VAL) Zephyr - The Battle of the Royal Saber is always a difficult game with loyalties split across the nation and sometimes even the household and the Rockets knew that they were in for a tough affair with how good their fellow Empire school had started the season and that they were going to be traveling to Mar Sara for the first battle. As is usually the situation, the home team managed to prevail, yet it was extremely close and on any other day, it likely would have turned into a Rockets victory. The team has Ceneisis left to finish out the season, with the Fleftic school riding a bit of momentum after a dominant performance at home to get back to .500.

4. Sadeg State University (DRK) Horizon - For perhaps the first time all season, the Skyhawks looked like a team that has title aspirations, having put up a double digit victory on the road. Yet it was not very impressive, as the Skyhawk offense continues to sputter despite their four wins from four record and it keeps up the allegations that their record is just a bunch of smoke and mirrors waiting to be undone. It is a credit that they keep winning despite this and if you keep doing that long enough, you might even wind up with a conference title. They still have a rematch with Cavsar and then Felswyr to prove the doubters wrong in the regular season, something they will no doubt be relishing.

3. Felswyr State University (CMT) Horizon - The runner's up from last season have done what the title holders could not and not let a first defeat beat them twice, as they traveled to Hoofstra and put up thirty four while holding the hosts to just nine points. Replacing their starters on defenses has been a bit of an issue for the side but they still have the best defense in the Horizon and third best in all of the NSCF, even if it might not be up to their desired standards. They keep showing championship quality though, yet there are still difficult tests remaining, including that second half rematch against the Skyhawks this more than likely going to decide the winner of the conference.

2. Mar Sara Tech (VAL) Zephyr - It has not been as pretty or as efficient as the Rockets but the Raiders have gotten the job done in every single game and then were able to outlast the Rockets in the Battle for the Royal Saber, kicking the game winning field goal as time expired, pulling off an upset that no one would have thought possible at the start of the season. Teams just do not replace their entire starting offensive line and receiving corps and have success, yet that is exactly what the Raiders have done. Every game they seem to pick up a little bit more momentum and belief, getting that much better, until this weekend when they were able to go toe to toe with the best in the conference and beat them. They have the conference in their grips now, at least until they have to travel to the imperial capital in week nine.

1. University of Loyola-Istria (BNJ) Celestia - Are the Blue Thunder back? Yes, we definitely think they are with the monumental overtime victory against Northern Moravica at the Cougars' own stadium. With the third best offense in the NSCF and a top ten defense, the Blue Thunder have been an absolute force in all three phases of the game this season and showed that clutch factor in that overtime victory against their countrymen. They need to keep themselves in check though, taking stock as to what has played out around the NSCF landscape in the first half, knowing that the higher up that you go, the harder it hurts when you fall from those heights, and fall you will if you are not careful.

by **TJUN-ia** » Fri Mar 12, 2021 12:18 pm

After succumbing to our 3rd straight loss of the season in the most heartbreaking of circumstances, the 0-3 Trent State Feathercaps were back on the road once more on the quest for that first elusive win. We didn't really have many expectations entering this season anyway, but it still felt really bad that this team has performed very well only to come just short in 2 of our opening 3 games. Still, some still held out hope that Johnny Bridgeford's side can turn things around - after all, a lot can happen in 10 games of Gridiron - and their hopes would be put on display today as TSU were on the road at the Vulcans of the Vietussia Academy.

This game would be a pivotal one for TSU's campaign and one where finally, things started to click for Bridgeford's team. The Vulcans would score first through a TD pass but with no extra point, TSU would finally get the ball at 6-0 and from here, things would finally look like they were on the right track. Gareth Baldwin would be a great offensive option in this contest, throwing for 4 TDs and putting up great numbers for the statisticians among us, with two of his passes going to Victor Que-et-Vous, one to Fremont Whitehorse and the other in a running play to Klaveon Tyrell. VA would get a field goal during this time but other than that, the Feathercaps were basically perfect in every way and held the line for the 3 quarters they were on. In Q4, Bridgeford brought on the reserves for some gameday experience - led by backup QB Leon Gallas - and they would hold up their own as well, with Gallas finding Peter Borosić for the 5th and final TD of the game. Clayton McGee would go 2/4 in his extra points while backup Xander Tiovannen would make the final one in garbage time, putting a seal on this historic contest for TJUN-ian Gridiron. The Trent State Feathercaps had finally won a game and now, anything might be possible.

With a win finally secured, the Caps move up to 4th in the Mineral at 1-3 and were certainly looking to try and keep the momentum up in the weeks to come. Up next for this team was a home game at Sherwood Field, taking on the also 1-3 Syracuse State University. Can this team keep the good vibes flowing Notts to get a 2nd win on the board? I guess we'll find out soon enough. WE ARE! TRENT STATE!

SCHEDULE (MINERAL Conference + 3 Non-Conf)
Week 1: vs Freedom's Altar (YSP) L 13-20 OT (4th/0-1)
Week 2: @University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park (CBP) L 9-20 (4th/0-2)
Week 3: vs Squidroidia Armed Forces Academy (SQR) L 30-37 (5th/0-3)
Week 4: @Vietussia Academy (UNV) W 33-9 (4th/1-3)
Week 5: vs Syracuse State (CRL)
Week 6: @Freedom's Altar (YSP)
Week 7: vs University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park (CBP)
Week 8: @Squidroidia Armed Forces Academy (SQR)
Week 9: vs Vietussia Academy (UNV)
Week 10: @Syracuse State (CRL)
---------------------Non-Conference---------------------
Week 11: vs Mar Sara Tech (VAL)
Week 12: @Cavsar U (DWK)
Week 13: vs Swisston City (KND)

by **United Vietussia** » Fri Mar 12, 2021 7:23 pm

OOC: My roster is quite late as I contracted COVID just before the Everything Thread opened up. Obviously if it's too late to receive credit, I completely understand, but for RP reference and purposes, I wanted to go ahead and post the roster.

Vietussia Academy Vulcans

Location: Oigrad, United Vietussia

School Size: 56,714 undergraduates

Championships: None

Team History: Vietussia Academy finished 2nd in the Celestia Conference in NSCF 13 and 14, lost the Pioneer Bowl in the NSCF 13, and lost the Iarocav Axe Bowl in NSCF 14. They last appeared in NSCF 18 with a disappointing 5-5 finish, and they look to begin the work of rebuilding the university's football program in NSCF 23 after a long hiatus.

Head Coach: Xavier Nogueras
Offensive Coordinator: Jason Braco Jr.
Defensive Coordinator: Arturo Freeman
Special Teams Coordinator: Gregorius Creat

Colors: Blue and Yellow

Stadium: Papa Vulcan Arena (Capacity: 55,000)

If players *'d, they are starting!

by **United Vietussia** » Fri Mar 12, 2021 7:52 pm

The Vietussian Inquisitor
Fans Dismal as Nogueras Returns From Extended Absence

Pictured: Fans grapple with a difficult 33-9 loss to Trent State University in Week 4, capping off an 0-4 return to the NSCF for Vietussia Academy.

OIGRAD - The scene on campus was deafening silence as the Vulcans of Vietussia Academy were handed their fourth straight loss at the hands of Trent State University, a story students and fans alike have become all too familiar with as the team struggles to find its footing once again. An extended hiatus from football activities has left Vietussia Academy's football program in a shadow of its former successes, and no hope has been found yet as the team nears the midway point of the conference season.

When asked what they thought of the team's future after the most recent game, one student said, "It's been a disaster[...]it would almost be better if we had just left this program buried at this rate." Another simply called it "hopeless".

At the center of this disaster lies the extended absence of head coach Xavier Nogueras, who had taken a month off for personal reasons relating to his family. Without a sense of leadership, the team has faltered under the coaching of interim coach Jason Braco Jr., who acted both as head coach and offensive coordinator for the first four games of this season as the Academy's football program continues to lack resources. Nogueras is widely expected to return to the helm for week 5 in time for the road trip to Freedom's Altar University, and players and fans alike both hope that his return will light a flame under this scrappy team who has shown some flashes of talent in some games but simply lack the discipline to hold the team together for a full 60 minutes.

"I worked tirelessly to revive this program," said Nogueras. "This program is and always has been highly capable with the sheer work ethic of these kids, even when we've been counted out. It's not going to be easy, and my unfortunate absence hasn't made matters any easier, but as long as these boys are ready to work, I'm ready to turn this season around right now and begin the long game of getting this program back up on its feet."

With an 0-4 start to the season, the Vulcans certainly have an uphill fight to even make this season respectable. Nogueras has already begun the process of scheduling non-conference opponents to try and fill out this team's schedule with the hopes of getting this team as much experience and practice time as possible, especially with a general lack of seniority in the roster. He'll get his first test this weekend against Freedom's Altar University (3-1), a team who will likely prove to be no easy task for Nogueras in his first game in 5 seasons.

The Vulcans have a long way to go, but with Nogueras returning to the helm, the team and its fans are trusting the process as he outlines the next steps to try and turn this season around before it is completely lost.

From the campus of Vietussia Academy in Oigrad, this is Jeb Ports.

by **Cassadaigua** » Sat Mar 13, 2021 4:21 pm

Saguenay Shocker: Tycoons Pull Off Stunner On Road,
By Lauren Piscotty, New Lakeland University Student Press

Ok, we’re not going to get ahead of ourselves here or anything, but if New Lakeland University is trying to use the NSCF to recruit the best players in our country, and maybe even taking a look at international talent, then what happened against Saguenay will go a long way. The Fighting Irish had everything going their way, and were at the top of the Woodlands Conference, and looking forward to an undefeated showdown with national rival St. Croix. Fans of the Tycoons looked at this game hoping that there would be progress shown from our own opener against St. Croix, since the team won their next two games. Those wins, however, were not against the top teams in the conference, so New Lakeland was not showing anything to anyone other than they might end up being the best of the rest, after the two schools from Quebec.

The start of the game went just how the Fighting Irish fans would have envisioned it, winning the coin toss, and going 80 yards downfield without much difficulty. Donovan O’Mara did not even have to contend with a third down on the opening drive, and it was quickly 7-0, Saguenay. After holding the Tycoons to a three and out, the second drive went much like the first, and very quickly it was looking like it would be a long day for the Tycoons. 14-0, Saguenay. Another three and out for our Tycoons, and at least this time the defense was able to hold the home side to a field goal, but they were losing 17-0, and the first quarter still had a minute left on the clock.

Erika Traynor shook her head on the sidelines for a moment, but then began shouting words of encouragement to her teammates, trying to keep them in the game. It was an interesting moment, as she knew the team had not been good on their first two possessions, and then had to watch the defense do nothing to stop the opposition, but she also knew she had to be a leader. Declan Centeno and Jack DeLuca, each a starting tackle and a senior began following her lead, and the next New Lakeland drive would result in points. Only three points, but points nonetheless, and it was a small victory for the team. Little did they know that the tide of the game was turning in their favor.

After starting their next possession at the 20, a holding penalty set the Fighting Irish back ten yards, a rare error on their part was made when a snap to O’Mara while he was in shotgun formation sailed over his head, and ended up going into the end zone. O’Mara did recover the ball, but was tackled in the end zone by Igor Soloviev for the safety. On the ensuing free kick, Allie Stone took it 76 yards for the touchdown, and just like that, New Lakeland was only losing 17-12. However, the quarter from hell for Saguenay was just getting started, as they were held to a three and out, and then watched as Erika Traynor move the Tycoons down the field as easily as O’Mara had done in the first quarter, ending in a 6-yard run by Taylor Oakes, making it 19-17 in favor of the Tycoons, still with 4:47 left on the clock. Again, the defense held the Fighting Irish, and again, Traynor marched the Tycoons down the field, hooking up with Stacey Maltzman for a 14-yard TD reception. At the break, the home crowd was stunned as the scoreboard read: New Lakeland 26, Saguenay 17.

With New Lakeland receiving the ball to start the second half, there was a great chance to extend the lead even further, and they would, but just by three points. Still, 29-17 at this point was looking very good, and you could see and feel the excitement on the sidelines. On campus, the party atmosphere was felt from residence hall to residence hall, to sorority house. The string of unanswered points came to an end when O’Mara drove his team downfield to make it 29-24, but then a back-breaking drive by Traynor and company, a 15-play drive, taking 8:51 off the clock ended in a Taylor Oakes TD, and it was 36-24 after three. Saguenay put it in the end zone on their next possession, but could not stop another long, drawn out drive, taking another 8:26 off the clock, ending in an Allison Tyner TD run to make it 43-24. With 6:41 left in the game, it was urgent for the Fighting Irish, and they would work as quickly as they could, and got it in the end zone with 3:58 left. However, they would never get the ball again as the Tycoons ran out the clock.

The result is shocking, and we’re sure all of the NSCF has caught notice to it. Still, let’s not get carried away. The team did a great job in this game, but still there is more work to do, and more learning to do. In this game, however, we saw the maturation of Erika Traynor to overcome the early deficit, and for the team to be resilient. Bigger battles await, but it’s safe to say that the Tycoons can be a competitive side.

by **Chromatika** » Sat Mar 13, 2021 4:33 pm

Checking Up on Chromatik Prospects

It's a new age in Chromatik Gridiron, with some established high school leagues now. Let's take a look at the top fifteen prospects available in the Chromatik gridiron scene.

Note: Chromatik High School Gridiron works as follows - the Deprí, Heartland, Coastal, Mountain Districts and Myana/Urrhed Islands get one District Champion apiece, while the Capital District is divided to East Capital and West Capital to get a field of eight. For the current season:

Deprí District Champions: Pelar high School
Mountain District Champions: Mt. Niar High School
Heartland District Champions: Pùr Heights High School
Coastal District Champions: East Rhoni High School
Myana Island Champions: Myana Northwestern High School
Urrhed Island Champions: Staramara Tech High School
Capital District East Champions: Flames of the Revolution High School
Capital District West Champions: Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School

National Tournament
Quarterfinals
Myana Northwestern High School 17-20 East Rhoni High School
Flames of the Revolution High School 31-28 Pùr Heights High School
Staramara Tech High School 17-0 Pelar High School
Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School 24-13 Mt. Niar High School

Semifinals
East Rhoni High School 17-24 Flames of the Revolution High School
Staramara Tech High School 13-10 Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School

Championship
Flames of the Revolution High School 20-23 Staramara Tech High School

15. K Bo-Ah Jang
Height/Weight: 6 ft 1 in, 278 lbs
Hometown: Randan, Mountain District
School: Randan Central High School
Projected Major: Architecture
High School GPA: 3.84

Jang Bo-Ah is a consistent performer for Randan Central High. The Lobsters didn't make it to the District playoffs, but Jang was 35 of 36 on Field Goals in the ten-game season and 100% on extra points. She's excellent from medium range, particularly from the left hash. A student of the game with a mathematical mind, she's an aspiring architecture major with a fondness of old buildings. She'd be okay with being on the bench for a few seasons as long as she goes to a school with a good architecture program and a decent enough gridiron program.

14. P Hilary Mercator
Height/Weight: 5 ft 10 in, 158 lbs
Hometown: Inon, Myana Island
School: Myana Northwestern High School
Projected Major: Education
High School GPA: 3.91

A key component of Myana Northwestern's charge to the District Title (before losing in the first round of the National Playoffs), Mercator averaged 52.4 yards per punt and also contributed to 15 coffin corner punts, the highest of any punter in the country in the high school ranks. With red hair and a sparky demeanor, she's always rearing to go. She wants to become a high school teacher after her collegiate career, with absolutely no aspirations to go to the pros. "The kids need me," she's stated in a fascinating interview. She'd be good to go from the first day.

13. NT/DT Matthias Gunderson
Height/Weight: 6 ft 4 in, 274 lbs
Hometown: Alnio, Capital District
School: RCK High School
Projected Major: Mathematics
High School GPA: 3.65

Gunderson is an immovable object in the center of any defensive line, often times getting the attention of three players in front of him. An imposing specimen at 6 ft 4, he has a good motor and quick reflexes to try to jump up to deflect the ball. He's a mathematics major, and wants to go into math theory of all things if gridiron doesn't work out for him. He's looking for a school that will help him unlock his potential and level up his game to be an every down lineman.

12. FB Bryan Knatt
Height/Weight: 6 ft 3 in, 238 lbs
Hometown: Urrheddiao, Urrhed Island
School: Urrhed High School
Projected Major: Electrical Engineering
High School GPA: 4.00

A model student and recipient of multiple Electric Engineering grants, Knatt is a great run blocker on the field. Thriving in Urrhed High's I-formation system, he led the way for the trio of running backs in the Firebats' arsenal. He can use some instruction in pass blocking, but is conducive to instruction. The best way to use Knatt, however, is to line him up in front of a running back and let him take on the first would-be tackler.

11. C Samson Konji
Height/Weight: 6 ft 3 in, 261 lbs
Hometown: Eyrods, Myana Island
School: The Academy of the Jungle
Projected Major: Linguistics
High School GPA: 3.96

There isn't much to not like about Samson Konji. An aspiring linguistics major who wants to work with the Chromatik Consulate, Konji was the Captain of TAJ's offensive line in their run to the Myana Island District Championship Game. He's apt at recognizing the pressure schemes and pointing out assignments. Has the potential to be a reliable proponent of any offensive line at the collegiate level, prefers pass blocking to run blocking.

10. CB Patrick Sand
Height/Weight: 6 ft 1 in, 185 lbs
Hometown: Staramara, Urrhed Island
School: Staramara Tech High School
Projected Major: English
High School GPA: 2.79

Patrick isn't the most studious, but he's a natural born athlete. The story goes that he used to be a football player but was carded so often because he often used his hands to defend long passes. His high school coach in his freshman year introduced him to gridiron and the rest is history. One of the most natural players in the Chromatik gridiron scene, Patrick is the master of deflections and tipped passes and made some key plays on Stamara Tech's route to the National High School title.

9. SS Jasmine Detwiler
Height/Weight: 5 ft 8 in, 181 lbs
Hometown: Rhoni, Coastal District
School: East Rhoni High School
Projected Major: Politics
High School GPA: 3.62

Jasmine Detwiler, the younger cousin of Chromatik footballer Lyle Detwiler, is a sure tackler who is decent in coverage but prefers run support. She forced six fumbles through the season as East Rhoni won the Coastal District title and made it to the national Semifinals. Jasmine is a political science major and wishes to get into lobbying for causes that she believes in, and wants to go to a school that takes academics and athletics serious in equal measure.

8. QB/WR Emilee Johannson
Height/Weight: 5 ft 7, 161 lbs
Hometown: Chromia, Capital District
School: Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School
Projected Major: Journalism (Newspaper)
High School GPA: 3.51

Why is the Quarterback of the school that finished seventh in the nation only ranked eighth? Her stature at 5' 7" is a cause for concern in the collegiate ranks. She's made an attempt to acknowledge the situation by asking to be listed as both a Quarterback (one of the shiftier types with a decent arm) and a slot receiver who can do some damage after the catch. It may be one of the best moves that she's made in her career. She is also an accomplished writer with three essays having been published by newspapers already.

7. LE/RE Ender Miles
Height/Weight: 6 ft 4, 251 lbs
Hometown: Urrheddiao, Urrhed Island
School: Staramara Tech High School
Projected Major: Biology
High School GPA: 3.83

One of the key contributors to STech winning the National Title, Miles has the height, athleticism, and quickness to disrupt the backfield on almost every play. His initial step is one of the best out there, and the intensity with which he approaches every play is a major asset. If you don't block him on each and every play, he is willing to wait until there's a few plays left to make that one play that changes the entire game around. Dynamic. Why is he listed so low, then? He has some injury concerns with a history of back spasms, and has been advised by doctors to never play three weeks in a row. This is hard when you hit the playoffs, but he has done his best to accommodate. He's looking for a school that will understand his unique circumstances.

6. MLB Charity Pascal
Height/Weight: 5 ft 11, 213 lbs
Hometown: Wirr Tsi, Capital District
School: Wirr Tsi School for the Gifted
Projected Major: Physics
High School GPA: 3.98

Pascal is notable as being a player that Mi-Hyeon Park, the Felswyr State University superstar, has stated as "the next middle linebacker to watch". She has all the intangibles needed for a middle linebacker but specializes in trailing tight ends and slot receivers in coverage. She isn't the most imposing of tacklers but knows how to use her body to make people trip, and is a ball hawk. She was perhaps the one standout on a Scholars team that finished a game off of District Playoffs, averaging more than ten tackles a game while contributing four interceptions and five forced fumbles. She wants to go into aeronautical physics and become someone who consults in designing parts for ChromatikAir.

5. LG Ned Dott
Height/Weight: 6 ft 3 in, 252 lbs
Hometown: Jatho, Mountain District
School: Mt. Niar High School
Projected Major: Music (Opera)
High School GPA: 3.61

Ned Dott is a sought after baritone singer by the Alnio University of the Arts, but likes playing football too much to go to a school without a gridiron program. On the field, he has decent reflexes and a relentless motor and seeks out contact to pancake defenders. He can be a bit slow to recognize stunts and misdirection but will be a reliable component of any university's offensive line. If the school has a classical music program, even better.

4. WR Demetrius St. Pierre
Height/Weight: 6 ft 4 in, 210 lbs
Hometown: Pùr, Heartland District
School: Pùr Heights High School
Projected Major: Computer Science Engineering
High School GPA: 3.28

Demetrius St. Pierre led all receivers in high school with 1,531 yards and 17 touchdowns. He is the complete receiver with solid route running, good hands, and decent yards after the catch. He's not special in any one area, but a jack of all trades. Perhaps his defining characteristic is that he shows up big in key matches. He caught three out of four touchdowns in Pùr Heights High School's defeat to Flames of the Revolution High School in the Quarterfinals after catching the game-winning score in the Heartland District Championship Game. He won't stand out on paper, but on the field, you'll be left wondering how he is always stepping up.

3. OLB Andrei Mikhail Preobrazhensky
Height/Weight: 6 ft 8 in, 251 lbs
Hometown: Wis, Urrhed Island
School: Staramara Tech High School
Projected Major: Business (Finance)
High School GPA: 3.82

Another one of the National Title-winning Sataramara Tech defense, Andrei Preobrazhensky is terrifying off the edge and smart enough to know when to drop in coverage. With the smarts to recognize plays and the skills to make the adjustments to the play recognized, he's likely to make an immediate impact. The area that he could use improvement in is overcommitting and flexibility.

2. RB Kaytlynne Sellers
Height/Weight: 6 ft 5 in, 204 lbs
Hometown: Cheonju, Heartland District
School: Pelar High School
Projected Major: Pre-Med
High School GPA: 4.00

This is one though player. A key running back for the Pelar High School Generals, Sellers ran for 1,913 yards and 14 touchdowns before running into the brick wall that was Staramara Tech's defense. Sellers is an aggressive back who initiates contact. Compact and well-built, she isn't the quickest but has a deceptive second gear that can catch would-be-tacklers off guard. She wants to major in pre-med so that she can help contribute to breast cancer research as her mother, her aunt, and her grandmother have all had the ailment. Knowing that Felswyr State traditionally don't use running backs, her best bet for gridiron is abroad.

1. Edge Nicole Manstrom
Height/Weight: 6 ft 1 in, 221 lbs
Hometown: Tor, Urrhed Island
School: Stamara Tech High School
Projected Major: International Studies
High School GPA: 3.73

Nicole Manstrom can line up on either side on the line or from the linebacking position, and has a nose for the ball. She was the leader for the Dragons' defense that was so instrumental in their run to the title, contributing 19 sacks along the way. With her parents both working for the Chromatik Consulate, she wants to get a degree in International Studies with a focus on Rushmore to represent Chromatika in the other sporting region. She wishes to become a more consistent performer while keeping up her intensity.

by **Banija** » Sun Mar 14, 2021 10:51 am

Amadi Ikenna, senior year of High School, School Assembly, coinciding with NSCF 18

"Everybody, take your seats." Ikenna's high school principal said. The high school was traditionally a basketball school- they'd never had a prospect like this in football. They were having a school assembly to announce which school he'd sign with.

Amadi Ikenna sat at the table. Three hats were in front of him- Loyola-Istria, Lake Wakiso State, and Hangaza Tech. He looked up at his classmates. This school was in far western Istria. Almost everybody was a Loyola fan. The Principal then nodded to start the ceremony. The smoke machine started. Enough to cover him, as he whipped a Loyola jersey over his head, threw on the Loyola hat, and then jumped out of the smoke. The school band starting playing Loyola's fight song, and the student body cheered. It was no surprise- his mother was a former volleyball at Loyola, and he was literally born at Loyola University Hospital. He felt he was born for this. He was excited for his career to begin...

Quarterbacks Meeting, a month before NSCF 20

Ikenna had redshirted the previous season. It was a three way competition between Ikenna, Chibuzo, and the grad transfer, Omar Jassey. Jassey was, of course, the big favorite. Didn't matter- Ikenna was a redshirt freshman. Plenty of years left, right? But Ikenna wasn't entirely ecstatic. Coach Isa announced Jassey would be the team's starter, with Chibuzo as the backup and Ikenna as the third string. More work to put in next year...

Team Meeting, one month before NSCF 21

"Hey men!" Coach Alanso Isa said to everybody around. "Right now, I'm going to announce who our starting quarterback will be. Who will lead us to glory this year! We're blessed to have plenty of excellent and talented quarterbacks in this room. And Amazu Chibuzo will be our man." As the room cheered, Ikenna clapped and smiled. He'd be a strong teammate. They were in the same class. Ikenna wasn't sure what was ahead of him, but he'd do his best at his beloved institution...

Team Hotel following Loyola's 28-14 win over UC-Baker Park at the Karmin-Falce Auto Bowl in NSCF 22

"Bro." Amazu Chibuzo. "You know man, I said I was gonna play another year after the Richardson game. But after talking to coach, I think I'm going pro."

"Really?" Ikenna said. "That's awesome! You're gonna be nuts."

"Yea man." Chibuzo said. "Plus, Hairte coming in. He can bomb the ball, like, 100 yards. Not literally, of course- but have you seen him throw?" Chibuzo chuckled to himself. "Anyways, what's your move. You're about to have your degree in hand. Grad transfer somewhere else?"

"Nah, I'll stay." Ikenna said. "Loyola rocks. I can do grad school."

"Nice man." Chibuzo said. "Hey, you can probably get a head start on that coaching career you've always wanted. Happens at a lot of places- young talented, but raw, quarterback. That's Hairte. You've got the veteran that functionally acts as a mini-QB Coach. Shows him the ropes of the playbook, sets an example. That's you."

"What-" Ikenna started to say.

"Anyways, you know this playbook like the back of your hand." Chibuzo said. "So you've got it down. I know you'll make sure Hairte can help keep bringing titles to this side of Moravica. God help us if Richardson and Northern Moravica both beat us down next year like they did this year. Anyways, I've gotta go see my folks. Having drinks with my Dad and his girlfriend. See ya man." And Chibuzo left the room.

Present day, 2:07 left in the fourth quarter between NMU and Loyola-Istria, tied at 23 points a piece

Amadi Ikenna was almost giddy on the sideline. It had been an opportunity he had been waiting for his entire life. The exact stuff you dream of as a kid. Leading Loyola to a last minute victory over their hated regional rivals, Northern, in a high stakes, internationally relevant football game. Loyola had all three timeouts, and Northern had none, putting Loyola really in control of what would happen here. Isa was always going to try for the victory.

But the first play was a disaster. They called curls on the outside and slants on the inside. Ikenna saw Lafi Senghore break. But as Senghore was breaking, Northern linebacker Samuel Kim was bearing down on him. The dude was huge- 6'7. As he wound up to throw, Kim jumped, forcing Ikenna to throw high. The ball sailed on Ikenna, and went right into the hands of cornerback Zere Chirkos. Chirkos had a caravan of blockers in front of him, and Kim blocked Ikenna as Chirkos walked into the end zone for the go-ahead touchdown. Ikenna was crushed. It felt as if all the worst moments of his career- being named third string in NSCF 20, when Chibuzo didn't even act like he'd have a chance to win the starting job this year, all the worst moments in his career happening at once. He had a chance to win the game for Loyola against their hated rivals- but had he lost it?

As Ikenna jogged to the sideline, Alanso Isa started talking to him. "Son." Isa said. "Don't let this get to you. You can handle it. Have faith in your God and yourself- you will get across the line." And Ikenna nodded. He was going to put that behind him. On their first huddle after the pick six, he simply told his teammates that they were going to win this game. Nothing more, nothing less. And they started their two minute drill. An 11 yard pass on 4th and 6 was the highlight, but Ikenna played with guts and fearlessness. With about 10 seconds left, they had a second and goal from the six. They isolated Hauptmann, and everybody in the stadium knew where the ball was going. But Ikenna put a perfect loft on the football. And even in double coverage, Northern didn't have a chance. Hauptmann is too large and too strong, and as a senior, outmuscled both Chirkos and Drew Lia to rise up, grab the football, bring his foot down, and complete the process of the catch. Touchdown Blue Thunder.

Ikenna, like the rest of the offense, sprinted to the corner to celebrate with Hauptmann. They got an excessive celebration penalty, which moved the PAT back to the 18, but their kicker still nailed it to force overtime. Loyola-Istria would lose the toss, and get the football first. Ikenna was pumped, however- he felt they could score. They started overtime with 4 runs. 5 yards by van Geel, 3 yards by van Geel, 3 by Ikenna, and then on first and 10 from the 14, a run for 3 yards from van Geel. And then- Ikenna drilled Hauptmann for a touchdown on an 11 yard slant. "F@* YES!" Ikenna yelled as Hauptmann went into the end zone. They nailed the extra point, and then let their defense take the field.

"You know man, we got this game." Ikenna said on the sideline to his running back, Eric van Geel. "Our defense- we're gonna make the stop." And just as he said that Justin Peterson sacked Wagner-Young for a six yard loss. "Yes!" Ikenna yelled as he jumped up. No talking to the offensive coordinator right now- all eyes were on the game. On second and 16 for Northern, Wagner-Young threw the ball towards the 10 yard line at the middle of the field, which would have been good enough for a first down. But it was knocked away by a diving Alexander Ackermann, who was rangy in that free safety role.

Northern then used one of their two timeouts for the period. "C'mon guys!" Ikenna said. He tried to pump up his defenders as they jogged to the sideline. And now, 3rd and long for Northern. Ikenna took a knee- could Loyola hold? As Wagner-Young dropped back, Ikenna saw Abram Fairbanks blow past Northern's offensive tackle. "C'mon Abram!" Ikenna yelled, as the Loyola sideline started jumping. Just as Wagner-Young tried to step up in the pocket, Fairbanks hit him and punched the football out. And the senior nose tackle, Yisake Araya, fell on the football.

The referees blew their whistle and signaled Loyola football. "YESSSSS!" Ikenna yelled as he, alongside the rest of his teammates, sprinted onto the field to celebrate. There was no stopping them now. The crowd was in stunned silence as the Blue Thunder players celebrated. After celebrating, Ikenna searched out Wagner-Young, congratulated him on a job well done, and then went to go find his mother, who also couldn't stand Northern Moravica. What a game, what a win for Ikenna and for Loyola-Istria.

North v. South Showdown Game Summary- Turnovers and Scores
1st Quarter
10:34 NMU TD - Amanuel Tegene 9 yard touchdown run (PAT is good)
05:10 ULI FUM - Gotthard Koulibaly fumble at the ULI 33, forced by SS Sean Gonzalez, recovered by FS Drew Lia at the ULI 31.
03:22 NMU FG - Babou Guiss 31 yard Field Goal

10-0 NMU at the end of Q1

2nd Quarter
13:15 ULI TD - Amadi Ikenna 4 yard touchdown pass to Dustin Andreas Jerome IV (PAT is good)
09:17 NMU FG - Babou Guiss 34 yard Field Goal
00:03 ULI FG - Sainey Kabbah 51 yard field goal

13-10 NMU at halftime

3rd Quarter
13:44 NMU TD - Vallienté Wagner-Young 17 yard touchdown pass to Dominik Dvoracek
06:45 ULI TD - Amadi Ikenna 9 yard touchdown run (PAT is good)
01:33 NMU FG - Babou Guiss 46 yard Field Goal

23-17 NMU at the end of Q3

4th Quarter
12:01 NMU TO - Vallienté Wagner-Young pass intercepted by Madue Uzoma at the ULI 35, returned to the NMU 49.
9:15 ULI TD - Eric van Geel 14 yard touchdown run (PAT is wide right)
1:59 ULI TO/NMU TD - Amadi Ikenna pass intercepted by CB Zere Chirkos at the ULI 31, returned 31 yards for a touchdown. (PAT is good)
0:04 ULI TD - Amadi Ikenna 6 yard fade route to Khalil Hauptmann (PAT is good)

30-30 at the end of regulation

Loyola loses coin toss, has First Possession in first overtime
5th play of Overtime, ULI TD - Amadi Ikenna 11 yard pass to Khalil Hauptmann (PAT is good)

Northern wins coin toss, has Second Possession in first overtime
3rd play of Overtime Period, NMU FUM - Vallienté Wagner-Young sacked for 8 yard loss by Abram Fairbanks, fumbles, recovered by Yisake Araya. Loyola WINS

Offensive Statistical Leaders

Loyola-Istria
Passing
ULI- QB Amadi Ikenna. 33/46, 356 yards, 3 touchdowns, 1 interception.

Rushing (Top 2 per team)
ULI- RB Eric van Geel. 17 carries, 81 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 fumble lost.
ULI- QB Amadi Ikenna. 7 carries, 44 yards, 1 touchdown.

Receiving
ULI- WR Khalil Hauptmann. 12 catches, 153 yards, two touchdowns.
ULI- WR Lafi Senghore. 7 catches, 72 yards.
ULI- WR Okonkwo Besrat. 4 catches, 35 yards.
ULI- TE Dustin Andreas Jerome IV. 4 catches, 26 yards, one touchdown.
ULI- WR Boy Secka. 3 catches, 32 yards.
ULI- RB Eric van Geel. 2 catches, 21 yards.
ULI- WR Baboucar Camara. 1 catch, 17 yards.

Northern Moravica
Passing
NMU- QB Vallienté Wagner-Young. 25/37, 279 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 interception.
NMU- WR Jung Singateh. 1/1, 14 yards.

Rushing (Top 2 per team)
NMU- RB Amanuel Tegene. 14 carries, 65 yards, 1 touchdown.
NMU- RB Apollo Esther. 9 carries, 43 yards.

Receiving
NMU - WR Dominik Dvoracek. 6 catches for 109 yards and a touchdown.
NMU - TE Rada Menasse. 8 catches for 74 yards.
NMU - WR Jung Singateh. 3 catches for 43 yards.
NMU - WR Wassa Sillah. 6 catches for 37 yards.
NMU - WR Yaya Badjie. 1 catch for 8 yards.
NMU - RB Amanuel Tegene. 1 catch for 6 yards.

by **Ranoria** » Sun Mar 14, 2021 1:26 pm

Rhine's Wings Clipped as Buffalo Deal With Severe Flu Outbreak

The Buffalo came in with a swath of inactives, but with Diamond Rhine on the field, they still liked their odds

As of Friday afternoon, at least a dozen Cold Hill players were confirmed to be suffering mild to severe flu symptoms. By Saturday morning, that number jumped to 18. Chris Dale elected to hold regular practice and to have any players showing symptoms stay in their dorms. That strategy did not appear to be conducive to victory.

By gametime, a swath of Cold Hill's starters were unable to play. Guard Jonathan Robinson and right tackle Moses Busara, both highly touted recruits, were unable to go. Right guard Baron Bell was also out, leaving Cold Hill dressing true freshman Terry Hauptmann at left guard. Backup left tackle April Fullochs was also unable to go, leaving Vince Vermillion, who was also ill, to tough it out. Both Aurel Strathos and Austin Golden at quarterback were also afflicted, but the Buffalo felt comfortable dressing just Rhine and Pierre Truman, with Rhine's 260 pounds and general durability helping here. Rumor had it that Rhine was also suffering symptoms, although for all we know, those were signs of a withdrawal, so we don't want to put a negative spin on his efforts to get clean - if they're there.

With Brannon Hillis out at running back, John Judge at least was a former starter. Of course, Adam Rickiott and Cooper Canis happened to be out as well, leaving the team's three most sure-handed receivers out of this one.

Defensively, things didn't look much better. Starter Hughe Brown at edge rusher was out, while the interior of the defensive line seemed unafflicted outside the third stringers, fortunately. Robert Lewan at inside linebacker had not practiced this week due to illness and was still showing symptoms, but refused to sit out the game. Koman Tabor and Kale Reinberger would also sit this one out at corner. Fortunately, Emil Johnson could slide right in as the #2 corner, having started in two seasons previously, while Victoria Mio took the #1 role, and Reinberger was a special teamster.

If you want a full list of players not participating for the Buffalo, see below.

Full List of Players Out For the Game:
*indicates a normal starter

Right. Well that sucks, but fortunately, the Buffalo had the best quarterback in college football. He'd made work of what was a ragtag group of receivers a season ago, so he could figure this out. Yeah, well, that's what it looked like.

It was immedietely apparent Rhine, who's offense got the ball first, would be running for his life all game. The passer was able to slide up in the pocket to avoid Devin River, who easily beat the Buffalo's starting right tackle to come clean, but Robert Lawrence wouldn't be so easily denied. Normally, Vince Vermillion, a 330 pound senior, would've put the freshman in his place. As it was, he was a step too slow, and Lawrence managed to drag down Rhine on the first snap. It had to be an incredible moment for the true freshman, and Rhine, who'd taken his share of beatings already this season, was slow to get up. He shook off the hit though, and lined up for the next snap. Dorian Browne-Clarke would haul in his next pass, but once again Rhine took a hit on the play. The reigning coach of the year knew that Cold Hill's offensive line was decimated, and he was bringing pressure to make them pay for it.

Regardless, Diamond Rhine marched his team down the field, if a little less explosively than usual. On a 12 play, 75 yard drive, he'd thrown the ball 9 times and connect on 7 of those tries, with the last one going to Browne-Clarke from six yards out. Chris Dale flashed a sign to go for two, knowing damn well his team was going to have trouble keeping up, and that they had to capitalize on every opportunity for a point.

Well, that's when the Buffalo's entire season may have gone up in flames. This time, it was linebacker Steven Goodwin. Now, Rhine was smart enough to know he should throw right at the blitz, and hit an open Heath Heinz right in the hands. Goodwin launched, however, right before the ball was thrown. Once the quarterback hopped back after the pass, that put his trajectory a little lower than he had intended, and what happened next was a little too graphic for them to show a replay.

Simultaneous with Heinz's dropping the pass, Rhine went down, his right shin bent in like a second, reversed knee. Goodwin seemed to know immedietely what had happened, and never celebrated, instead shouting at Cold Hill's sideline to get the trainers onto the field. Heinz was immediately sitting on his heels and grabbing his helmet, seemingly unconcerned with the injury.

Rumor has it he’s been demanding playing time, and he whiffed it here.

Rhine was unable to stand after breaking his leg on a two point try

Rhine screamed a few obscenities and slammed a fist into the turf, breathing fast and eyes squinted shut against the pain while the stretcher was brought out. Both teams had taken a knee and were silent, many on the Buffalo sideline with their eyes downcast or wide with hands covering their mouths. Any momentum, enthusiasm they'd had? It was gone. Their leader was down and out. Heath Heinz was the lone Buffalo player on the field who returned to the sideline, and only took a knee once he realized everyone else had.

You can guess what happened next. Sympathetic or not, Byron Joseph and Hermann Whitworth weren't going to pass up an opportunity to bury the defending champions, and they did.

Pierre Truman, with a decimated offensive line, a bare receiving core, and the lowest morale the team could've possibly had, came in and was absolutely shut down. The young man, talented by any metric, was unable to lift the team, certainly not his, above this disaster. He'd finish 23/45 for 192 yards, with 3 interceptions and a pair of lost fumbles on strip sacks. John Judge wasn't much help out of the backfield, with 12 carries for 40 yards flat. Overall, Deondre Rhine's 70 passing yards counted for almost a quarter of the team's offensive production...in just one drive.

Now, in Truman's defense, he did get the team into field goal range three times. However, with those field goals all being clustered into extremely long-shot situations, they would lead to one failed fourth down conversion and 0/2 on the actual kicks, from 45 and 48 yards, respectively.

As for the defense, they were asked to play a game they weren't familiar with: Shutting down the opposing team rather than just providing a potent stumbling block. Missing plenty of starters, that just wasn't an option.

Robert Lewan's a nasty linebacker, known for big hits and silencing big runners, but as ill as he was, Hermann Whitworth made him pay every time he tried. Sure, Lewan brought him down a few times, but this wasn't the hard-hitting matchup we expected. It was Whitworth blasting through one of the best run-stopping linebackers in college football and sometimes getting dragged down by the ankles afterward, and a few yards further downfield. But can you blame Lewan? He doesn't know how to play if it isn't taking his man on straight-up, he isn't going to tr y any of this conservative tackling crap. His body just didn't have that same punishment to deliver today.

So, with all that being said...44 to 6. Disgusting, we know. If the team can get over this nasty bout of the flu, Aurel Strathos should be able to step in next week, and he's certainly a couple steps up from Truman, while many of our other starters will be returning. Regardless, this is a crushing blow for the Buffalo, especially with Richardson coming to town in a couple weeks.

Richardson Embarrassed by Swisston City, Steinheil Takes Responsibility

Richard Steinheil was glum after a 44-33 defeat at the hands of Swisston City. "This one's on me. I got us all fired up for our bout with Kohnhead City, and that's not something I usually do. We came down hard after an emotional win, happens to the best teams. Only problem was that I didn't know it would happen. No fault to any of our boys, they played hard."

The loss has sent power rankings into a tailspin after what has been a humiliating and outright disastrous week for Ranoria's college gridiron. If these two teams don't bounce back, and hard, this could be the end of our dominant run in the Big 8.

Outskirts of Dietrich, Ranoria
11:17 PM
Fairgrounds Event Center

Perhaps an odd location for Kai Hillis, linebackers coach for Richardson University, to be on a Sunday evening. Watching low level professional and amateur fighters. He checked his watch and sighed at the prospect of catching his flight, which had been scheduled for 1:30 am, and thank goodness it had, because it had taken the previous fights much longer to get over with. The kid he was here to see was up now, main event of the night, competing for some minor professional championship.

"There's my boy." He immedietely began jotting down notes. One nice advantage to this over the games he'd also been to: he could tell immedietely what kind of shape the prospect was in. And he was shredded. Kaiser Belfort stalked up to the ring surrounded by his entourage of coaches, touched his gloves with the referee, and stepped up to the ring. The seventeen year old phenom offered a curt bow before he stepped into the octagon. There was none of the flash some younger fighters had, no showboating. He sat on his heels, elbows resting on his knees, and seethed.

The kid looked small for a middle weight, closer to the 205 pound lower limit than the 234 pound maximum. His opponent, who stepped and flashed a grin, appeared much larger, a thick belt emblazoned with silver plating engraved with the letters "DFU," for Dietrich Fighter's Union, slung over his shoulder.

A glance down at the program he'd been handed for the night confirmed it, his opponent listed at the maximum 106.5 kg, and Belfort clocking in at 93.

The larger man handed the belt off to a coach before he stepped into the ring, rolling his neck and seemingly relaxed.

Hillis let a sigh escape him. He was either going to be here for a three round point fight, or Kaiser Belfort was going to get knocked out. Either boredom, or a concussion that he didn't want to have to file paperwork for, assuming this time he could win the kid over.

The bell rung, and the two stepped in. The larger man Belfort was contending with offered to touch gloves, but the young man refused. In response, the big man stepped forward and landed a jab. Then another. And perhaps a little early, he went for the haymaker, a wide hook.

The punch only met air. Kaiser slipped under the knockout blow, body twisting even then as he prepared to counter. Before the other man could recover, Kaiser's hand exploded through his chin, and just like that it was over. The big man crumpled and the only movement he offered was a twitching leg.

Kai Hillis wasn't a fighter. He wasn't a fighting enthusiast, and not even really a casual fan of Ranoria's 3rd most popular sport. But he knew power, he knew explosiveness when he saw it, and if someone had told him he was drooling he'd have been unashamed. What stood before him was 205 pounds of lean musculature, brimming with raw power. And of course he'd seen it on the field.

He cheated back to the first page of his notes, the stats. 441 career tackles, 3,904 career rushing yards, 67 tackles for a loss, thirty sacks. Maybe not quite up there with top-level recruits, but the the real eye catcher had been the forced fumbles, and how he earned them. Kaiser Belfort didn't go for the strip. He went for the big hit. Every. Single. Time.

Despite a solid dozen offers on the table, he'd yet to take one, insistent on his career as a fighter for Renown Combat International. But Kai Hillis was here because he wanted one more chance to change the kid's mind.

He waited until the 17 year old professional fighter came out before making himself known. "Mr. Belfort!" He called out, and Kaiser's eyes scanned the crowd before falling on him. Kai tried to ignore the obvious curse he let out under his breath.

"Solid performance out there! I've had trouble getting in to-"

"No," Belfort cut him off, "You haven't. I just haven't been responding. Cut the bullshit coach, it's not gonna help your case." The kid looked a lot smaller in a shirt, with lettering announcing his status as champion, that must have been two sizes too large. Probably ordered for the other guy. The belt slung over his shoulder, he shrugged, "So, what's your pitch this time? We've already gone through the scholarship, honors program, free tutoring, et cetera. What's next?"

Hillis's shoulders fell. He should've expected this. The kid was blunt as can be. But he set his jaw, knowing damn well this was probably his last shot. "Look Kaiser, you want me to level with you? Fine. We're historically the best team in the country, and we're getting outstripped by Cold Hill left and right. We're being embarrassed on the international stage. We need an influx of talent, yes, but we need fire. We need leaders. We," he paused, thinking of their gem of this recruiting class, Gideon Kearse, "We think we've found one of those guys. But he can't do it alone. And I need a tone setter at linebacker." He extended a hand, with probably the third business card he'd offered the young man, "Think about it?"

Belfort nodded, but pushed the card away, "I've got your number. Thanks. Now let me enjoy my win."

"Of course," Hillis acknowledged, and spun on his heel to take his leave.

by **Kohnhead** » Sun Mar 14, 2021 3:10 pm

A statement win for Kohnhead City overshadowed by an injury to Deondre Rhine

A Cold Hill defense missing multiple starters and key players could do nothing to stop Herman Whitworth

44-6. That was the final score at Chicken King Stadium as the reigning champion Cold Hill University Buffalo visited the Kohnhead City University Mighty Eagles in a matchup with major implications for the Big Eight Conference. Cold Hill smashed us both times last year with star quarterback Deondre Rhine absolutely obliterating a suspect Mighty Eagles secondary in their first NSCF game and then again five weeks later here at Chicken King Stadium. Before the match Cold Hill who were following up a 63-9 win over Akers had some players get flu like symptoms whether it was from the Akers game or a separate instance is unknown but no matter where it came from it quickly took out a lot of players.

Overall 16 players including seven starters would be ruled inactive for the game and multiple others potentially including Rhine himself were suffering from symptoms but decided to play through it. However most people still had the Buffalo winning the game noting that Deondre Rhine has had to carry teams before and when motivated he is by far the best player in college football. The big thing was two starting lineman were out as was backup April Fullochs which was huge with our defensive line really being the best part of the unit.

Another key factor was that the 2nd and 3rd string quarterbacks in Aurel Strathos and Austin Golden were both out although at the time it didn't seem to matter much. It would matter quickly into the game when after taking multiple hits from our loaded defensive line on a two point play conversion Steven Goodwin rushed right through the middle and took down Deondre Rhine right as he was throwing the ball only for it to be dropped by Heath Heinz. It was a clean hit from Goodwin with no ill-intent whatsoever however sometimes in football freak injuries happen and such was the case as Deondre Rhine two time NSCF Championship winner, and the guy who had carried a very suspect Cold Hill receiving unit in the past fell to the turf with a thud.

Steven Goodwin later said after the match that it was the most sickening thing that had happened to him as he saw Rhine's shin injury up close knowing that he had caused it. He was notably emotional in his post game interview and apologized to Rhine and Cold Hill although his actions after the play in which he immediately yelled for trainers to come over further show that he had meant no harm and that it had been clean. Immediately everyone from both teams started to take a knee while Rhine lay there on the ground and up in the stands his pet owlephant Chewy was heard sobbing his ears off. While it is the game of football and injuries due happen this one is especially horrific and painful and just like that Cold Hill were in trouble up 6-0 without their top three quarterbacks and a good portion of the team sick with flu.

The injury seemed to take a lot out of a Cold Hill team that was already going to have a difficult time stopping our offense with multiple starters and key players out and others limited. The best running team in football kept at it exposing a front seven filled with injuries and while hard hitting backer Robert Lewan played through his bout with the flu he had nowhere near the same oomph that he normally has and struggled to contain Whitworth and Joseph.

In past games against the Buffalo, Joseph has been forced to throw the ball way too often as we found ourselves down big but this time with 4th stringer Pierre Truman in the game for Cold Hill our defense prevented them from scoring again allowing us to ground and pound with passes sprinkled in at their liking keeping a weakend defense always on their toes.

Herman Whitworth has been making an early surge for the awards this season and he reached 750 yards in four games with a big 172 yard rushing day while Joseph added 106 on the ground. Hastroff continued to be effective as well adding 61 yards although wasn't as efficient as normall with those coming on 18 yards however this was mainly at the end of the game with the starters rested something we were never expecting was going to happen against Cold Hill. Joseph really rebounded through the air in this one and his final statline of 25-30 for 206 yards with two scores and no interceptions. Our receiving core was not really able to take advantage to the injury to freshman star number 1 corner Koman Tabor from Banija and Alazar who had been expecting to draw his fellow Banijan was instead put against Victoria Mio another freshman this time from Chromatika.

Overall it was a decent day for Alazar who caught six passes for 55 yards with no score although it was on six targets and Jodi Lawrence was able to do a bit better with four receptions for 81 yards and a score from 36 yards out. Edwards had a decent day in the slot catching five passes for 32 yards as Joseph really spread the ball out to a lot of different players.

Defensively we played quite well against Cold Hill's 4th string quarterback which is to be expected as Pierre Truman did his best but at the end of the day we recorded five turnovers, three interceptions and two forced fumbles on sacks. Speaking of which our top three on the defensive line of Devin River, Robert Lawrence, and Albie Snow put immense pressure on Truman taking advantage of a very weakened Cold Hill offensive line.

Overall the win puts us at 3-1 and in a very good place in the conference with what should be an easy win next week as we travel to Northwest Kalactin to take on John Foster and the Akers University Capitals fresh off of their first win of the season. We defeated Akers both times we played them last year and their 1-3 start with the only win being by three against a team we beat by 57 shows that we should be the heavy favorites.

Swisston City stuns Richardson to advance to 3-1

The sideline gets hyped after a big score late in the third

The Swisston City University Army Knives came ready to play spoiler against a Richardson team in high spirits after their 4-0 start and first ever victory against Kohnhead City. Richardson had beaten both Cold Hill and KCU by double digits en route a first place in the Big Eight and a first place in the KSPN power rankings who had them start down in 8th.

The vaunted Richardson defense has been a bit worse than normal this season but they've still had dominant games while allowing more points than normal. Most people had attributed this to the Richardson offense led by Ezekiel Bantoba from Banija being so much better than last season like when they put up 40 on Cold Hill or 34 on Kohnhead City. Deigo Rodriguez and our air raid showed that this might not be so accurate by putting up 44 points against one of the best defenses in college football a year ago.

On the very same Saturday, Kohnhead City destroyed a ravaged by the flu Cold Hill team that lost the best player in college football potentially for the season in the first quarter, Swisston City beat the first non-Kalactin team in its programs history. The reason was a career day from Diego Rodriguez who has looked pretty questionable so far this season.

Rodrigeuz would toss 402 yards with four touchdowns although he also threw three interceptions with a quarterback performance that Callum Newman suggested should be the norm for our team. Audrey Cresswell exploded for 208 yards receiving and two scores getting deep multiple times and was a beast in the receiving game as Richardson star Makang Secka did a pretty good job on William Carey.

Richardson coach Richard Steinheil blamed the loss in part on the team and his attitude following the win against Kohnhead City admitting that they let their emotions get the best of them following that win and they really looked past a Swisston City team two weeks removed from losing 52-14 to that same Kohnhead City team.

For Swisston City this is a statemen win that lets the world know that they have their expectations set higher than just a Pioneer Bowl appearance with many looking at that 3-1 record and noting that an appearance in the playoffs might be possible although we definitely should not get ahead of ourselves. The battle with a Cold Hill team that should be starting Aurel Strathos for Swisston City's first ever trip to The Tundra.

BIG EIGHT CONFERENCE               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Kohnhead City University             4    3   1   193   71 +122
2 Richardson University                4    3   1   147  107  +40
3 Swisston City University             4    3   1   135  125  +10
4 Cold Hill University                 4    2   2   138  108  +30
5 Akers University                     4    1   3    76  171  −95
6 Lismore Christian College            4    0   4   101  208 −107

As you can see from the standings the conference has really been shaken up by the most recent results with Kohnhead triumphing over Ranoria for now at least. For now we can celebrate an early statement win but should learn the lessons taught to us by Richardson and coach Richard Steinheil and cannot overlook the reigning champs (as crazy as that sounds) who should be back up to some semblance of strength with everyone but Rhine really recovering from the flu.

by **Chromatika** » Sun Mar 14, 2021 3:36 pm

The Flame of the Firehawk: Rekindled
Part 5: Hitting the Stride

Team   1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  |  Tot
HU      0   3   6   0  |    9
FSU     3   7  10  14  |   34

1Q
10:18 FSU FG - Sara McAllister 38 yard Field Goal

2Q
06:28 HU FG - Rajya Cook 41 yard Field Goal
01:14 FSU TD - Micky Jottle 20 yard pass from Sarai Gwenderyn (Sara McAllister Kick)

3Q
13:36 HU FG - Rajya Cook 47 yard Field Goal
11:49 FSU FG - Sara McAllster 55 yard Field Goal
09:12 HU FG - Rajya Cook 36 yard Field Goal
04:38 FSU TD - Sarai Gwenderyn 18 yard run (Sara McAllister Kick)

4Q
12:57 FSU TD - Ozioma Mazzi 41 yard interception return (Sara McAllister Kick)
07:22 FSU TD - Niles Gwivern 27 yard pass from Sarai Gwenderyn (Sara McAllister Kick)

FILLYDELPHIA, KARDITAN - For the first three games of the NSCF season, the Felswyr State Firehawks' defense didn't look like themselves. Sure, seventeen points allowed per game isn't a lot by usual standards, but when you conceded around nine points a game in your first season in the NSCF, expectations remain high.

Against Hoofstra University, the Firehawks returned to their roots, containing the Karditani University squad to 214 total yards and 9 points as they pranced to a 34-9 victory away in Fillydelphia. The biggest star was Ozioma Mazzi, as the Banijan Free Safety racked up three passes defensed, four tackles, and an interception return in the fourth quarter that sealed the game. With Via Nia-Kaid being out due to an injury, Mazzi has been tested by Sadeg State and Cavsar, and it was great to see the tandem of him and Sterling start to form. They combined for some highlights this time around.

Sarai Gwenderyn was her usual brilliant self, going 21 or 27 for 311 yards and 2 touchdowns and adding another touchdown on the ground. Her favorite target on this day was Micky Jottle, who is more of a route runner than Mio the speedster. Often overlooked, Jottle caught 11 passes for 131 yards and a touchdown this time around as Mio being continually double-teamed left him open most of the time.

Defensively, Mi-Hyeon Park and Jill Lia also had good plays for the Firehawks alongside Sterling and Mazzi, while Vollmacht was notable because he allowed many of the others to shine.

"We're starting to get it together," explained Defensive Coordinator Kasen Harrowitz, "Losing all the seniors and having some new starters led to some growing pains, and I wouldn't be surprised if we still struggle from time to time. All that matters is that we are hitting our stride when the Out of Conference Games and the Playoffs roll around."

Felswyr State will have two more chances to get their defense in shape before traveling to Sadeg State University for a game that they must win to win the conference. Home matches against Laneca and Rickendor Central will happen first.

CCGC Week 4 - Deprí Lanar University vs. Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology: Caitlyn Bowens, Mia Oglesby Lead Warriors Past Hellcats

Team   1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  |  Tot
DLU     3   7   6   3  |   19
ZIoT    0   3   3   0  |    6

1Q
11:39 DLU FG - Caitlyn Bowens 41 yard Field Goal

2Q
08:48 ZIoT FG - Nydia Leon 36 yard Field Goal
01:44 DLU TD - Teodor Smart 17 yard run (Caitlyn Bowens Kick)

3Q
13:28 DLU FG - Caitlyn Bowens 28 yard Field Goal
07:38 DLU FG - Caitlyn Bowens 44 yard Field Goal
01:39 ZIoT FG - Nydia Leon 40 yard Field Goal

4Q
05:28 DLU FG - Caitlyn Bowens 33 yard Field Goal

DEPRI LANAR - In a match that showed the potential for this young Warriors squad, Deprí Lanar bottled up Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology's offense behind the sure defending of Mia Oglesby and four field goals from Caitlyn Bowens to improve to a record of 3-1.

Theresia Goldman was contained to 18 of 31 passing for 201 yards and picked off twice as the Hellcat offense struggled to produce consistently, while the duo of Teodoro Smart and Dart Wedigo did enough to get the Warriors in the end zone once and contribute to four field goals.

For the Hellcats, being at 1-3 isn't where they envisioned being almost halfway through with CCCU on the horizon. For the Warriors, a stingy defense has helped them achieve their current place in the standings, and maintaining that will be the challenge ahead.

"We are proud of our work so far," admitted Clara Venice, the Head Coach of Deprí Lanar University," We know it's a tough road ahead, but we're in it for the long run."

Deprí Lanar University heads to Deprí Sanar University in Week 5, while Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology hosts CCCU.

CCGC Week 3 - Chromia Central College University vs. University of Myana: Kreston Outduels Matos as Comets Eclipse Vipers

Team   1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  |  Tot
CCCU   14  13  13   7  |   47
UM      7  14  10  10  |   41

1Q
11:38 CCCU TD - Todd Kreston 18 yard run (Amanda Jiggs Kick)
08:39 UM TD - Crista Broussard 28 yard pass from Nobuko Matos (Shirley Woo Kick)
02:27 CCCU TD - Mark Lett 31 yard pass from Todd Kreston (Amanda Jiggs Kick)

2Q
14:31 UM TD - Ryan Talbott 56 yard pass from Nobuko Matos (Shirley Woo Kick)
10:28 CCCU FG - Amanda Jiggs 53 yard Field Goal
06:48 CCCU FG - Amanda Jiggs 36 yard Field Goal
03:29 UM TD - Merrill Gerald 20 yard pass from Nobuko Matos (Shirley Woo Kick)
00:16 CCCU TD - Marquis de Francine 21 yard pass from Todd Kreston (Amanda Jiggs Kick)

3Q
13:29 CCCU FG - Amanda Jiggs 43 yard Field Goal
09:52 UM TD - DeMarcus Bonner 23 yard pass from Nobuko Matos (Shirley Woo Kick)
06:21 CCCU FG - Amanda Jiggs 37 yard Field Goal
05:37 UM FG - Shirley Woo 45 yard Field Goal
01:33 CCCU TD - Kiersten Mackey 21 yard pass from Todd Kreston (Amanda Jiggs Kick)

4Q
12:45 UM TD - Ryan Talbott 34 yard pass from Nobuko Matos (Shirley Woo Kick)
07:33 UM FG - Shirley Woo 50 yard Field Goal
00:07 CCCU TD - Todd Kreston 5 yard run (Amanda Jiggs Kick)

CHROMIA - In the game of the year so far in the CCGC, Todd Kreston and the CCCU Comets outlasted Nobuko Matos and the UM Vipers in a 47-41 shootout.

Kreston continued his hot streak, going 31 of 43 for 371 yards and three touchdowns and 8 carries for 41 yards and two touchdowns on the ground. Matos wasn't bad either, throwing for 27 of 38 for 419 yards and four touchdowns. In a game where both Quarterbacks handled defenses with ease, it was the little things that made a difference.

Both of UM's field goals came after boneheaded third down mistakes where Matos's targets ran out of bounds before reaching the first down marker. Given how the Comets couldn't stop much of anything, those mistakes ended up costing the Vipers the game. The Comets also had to settle for four Field Goals, but most of those were because of the Vipers actually clamping down on them.

With one minute and fifty-seven seconds left, the Comets took over at their twenty yard line down six points. Check down passes to Prince, Nodstrom, and Mackeytook them to the forty-three yard line, and then Mark Lett caught a diving pass for thirty-three yards to the UM 20 yard line. After a timeout, Marquis de Francine caught a pass in traffic for fifteen yards, setting up a first and goal at the five yard line.

Kreston's pump-fake froze Jillian Bible and Ausuncion Richie for a solid two seconds, and Kreston walked into the end zone untouched.

After starting the season 0-2, CCCU is starting to come back hard, and will try to maintain their momentum when heading into Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology, while UM tries to get back on the winning track against the Lava after their first defeat of the season.

CCGC Week 3 - Staramara Technical University vs. Deprí Sanar University: Moreau, Lava Defense Bowl over Spartans

Team   1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  |  Tot
STU     8   7   0   3  |   18
DSU     0   0   0   3  |    3

1Q
13:01 STU TD - Ardell Moreau 61 yard run (Ardell Moreau run)

2Q
06:27 STU TD - Ardell Moreau 27 yard run (Vaugh Steadman Kick)

3Q
No Score.

4Q
05:28 STU FG - Vaugh Steadman 39 yard Field Goal
02:21 DSU FG - Earnestine Castellanos 48 yard Field Goal

STARAMARA - Sometimes, Ardell Moreau can be contained. Other times, he cannot.

The Junior running back for the STU Lava was in fine form in Week 4 of the CCGC as the Spartans were held to just a Field Goal while DSU held the ball for more than 47 minutes at Johnston Memorial Stadium.

Ardell Moreau ran the ball thirty-seven times for 216 yards and two touchdowns including a two-point conversion and Sheilah Pantoja went 9-of-10 for 87 yards as the Lava controlled the game's flow and never let Deprí Sanar University into the game.

Staramara Tech will hope to continue that momentum at Myana while Deprí Sanar University hosts Deprí Lanar University.

Chromatik Collegiate Gridiron Conference    Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 University of Myana                         4    3   1   150  100  +50
2 Deprí Lanar University                      4    3   1    68   61   +7
3 Staramara Technical University              4    2   2    63   65   −2
4 Chromia Central College University          4    2   2   124  110  +14
5 Deprí Sanar University                      4    1   3    50  111  −61
6 Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology             4    1   3    74   82   −8

by **Kohnhead** » Sun Mar 14, 2021 5:04 pm

KSPN Power Rankings: Week 4

It was a crazy week of college football where we saw things like the Banijan Bowl, Mar Sara and Raynor battling for the Zephyr Conference, upsets, and of course whatever the heck happened in the Big Eight. Overall we saw three of the top four teams go down and we saw two time champion and all-Ranorian quarterback Deondre Rhine go down for the season. We will have a new number 1 as some will ask are the former kings back on top following a one year playoff hiatus? In addition note that the Power Rankings shall be expanding to 15 teams and five extra teams that are the first ones out to be listed not analyzed starting this week.

1. University of Loyola-Istria - Banija (+2)
Conference: Celestia (1st)
Record: 4-0
Last Week: Defeated Northern Moravica 37-30 in overtime

Loyola-Istria are helped out by the top two losing however even if they didn't it would be difficult to argue with the resume that the 4-0 NSCF 21 Champs have put together. Wins against Salamantic and their hated rivals in Northern Moravica have propelled this team to a 4-0 start and many wonder if Loyola are back and ready to once again take the NSCF by storm. In addition how can you not cheer for redshirt Senior Amadi Ikenna who rode the bench for four seasons and yet stayed with the team, learning the playbook, and being the best teammate he could be. Ikenna threw the go-ahead touchdown pass to Khalil Hauptmann in overtime and has led this team to a 4-0 start.

2. Raynor University - Valanora (+/- 0)
Conference: Zephyr (1st)
Record: 3-1
Last Week: Lost to Mar Sara Tech 34-31

It was a slip up from Raynor it really was in a three point loss to the other NSCF team from Valanora in Mar Sara Tech but we still believe highly in the one team whose ranking has yet to change on the entire season. Mar Sara are a high quality team who do appear on these power rankings and we here at KSPN believe that Raynor will come back from this and are still the 2nd best team in college football right now. We know the second matchup between the two schools from Valanora should be as entertaining as the first and will probably have a lot more on the line.

3. Richardson University - Ranoria (-2)
Conference: Big Eight (1st)
Record: 3-1
Last Week: Lost to Swisston City 44-33

Richardson also lost their first game on the season and the former number one team in these power rankings slip down to third following a pretty embarrassing 11 point defeat to Swisston City. While the offense and Bantoba have looked fabulous this once elite defense allowed over 40 points to Swisston City. Wins over Kohnhead City and Cold Hill are vital if they want to win the Big Eight however they need to clean up on the lower ranked schools, this sort of brings back flashbacks of their loss to Eirīkssonia last season.

4. Felswyr State University - Chromatika (+1)
Conference: Horizon (1st)
Record: 4-0
Last Week: Defeated Hoofstra 34-9

FSU took care of business against the lone school from Karditan winning 34-9 in a game that was never in doubt. FSU fans should be relieved to see that the defense appears to be taking care of business once again after struggling compared to the standard they set last season in the first few games. While what they did last season defensively might be difficult to repeat they appeared to have figured things out this week and Sarai Gwenderyn and the offense had no struggles while putting up 34 points a very good showing for them.

5. Sadeg State University - Drawkland (+1)
Conference: Horizon (2nd)
Record: 4-0
Last Week: Defeated Rickendor Central 23-7

Another week, another power rankings where Sadeg State despite being undefeated is behind a team that they beat to the dismay of SSU fans who have responded quite angrily to these power rankings and some are even boycotting them. Sadeg State this week defeated a Rickendor Central team that sits at 1-3 with a -71 point differential but only could beat them by two possesions although 16 is the very max two possesion score there is. I haven't been overly impressed by SSU and their point differential being half of what FSU's is scares me a little however they are 4-0 so they can win when it matters.

6. Kohnhead City University - Kohnhead (+3)
Conference: Big Eight (2nd)
Record: 3-1
Last Week: Defeated Cold Hill 44-6

Yes, Cold Hill was suffering from an outbreak of flu that kept out 16 of their players including seven starters and limited countless others, yes Deondre Rhine went down on the very first drive in a freak injury and yes Cold Hill was down to their fourth string. However a 38 point win against the defending champs is still a 38 point win against the defending champs and while Cold Hill was at limited strength we still absolutely stifled the offense and crushed their defense. Kohnhead City still have the best offense and point differential in the NSCF and are averaging over 48 points per game, this team is legit and the Big Eight is probably between them and Richardson with Rhine's injury but you can't count out Cold Hill.

7. Northern Moravica University - Banija (+/- 0)
Conference: Celestia (2nd)
Record: 3-1
Last Week: Lost to Loyola-Istria 37-30 in overtime

Overtime losses hurt a lot, overtime losses to your most hated rival with the entire nation watching hurt even more. Northern Moravica had a 30-23 lead following a pick six but Amadi Ikenna who we highlighted earlier drove Loyola down the field to send the game into overtime. On their first drive in overtime, on a third and long Vallienté Wagner-Young who hadn't played too well was strip sacked to end the game. It's a heartbreaking loss for NMU however 3-1 is nothing to scoff at and this team showed it can more than compete with Loyola, the Celestia Conference is still very much up for grabs.

8. Mar Sara Tech - Valanora (+5)
Conference: Zephyr (2nd)
Record: 4-0
Last Week: Defeated Ranyor 34-31

The Raiders make their first appearance in the top 10 after not even starting out the season in the top 15 per our ranks although they were at 16. While they weren't on the official list they were ranked 13th as per our first five out and thus are shown to be increasing five positions. While they had a 3-0 record leading up to this, you know how KSPN feels about the Zephyr Conference and the big match for them was always going to be the battle with Raynor. Mar Sara took this one by three and while 8th is where we have them they still shoot up the rankings with a statement win that shows the battle for supremacy in Valanora is underway.

9. University of the Commonwealth - Commonwealth of Baker Park (+1)
Conference: Mineral (1st)
Record: 4-0
Last Week: Defeated Syracuse State University 55-40

It sure wasn't pretty or anything close to pretty but the Commonwealth stays undefeated with a 15 point win against a 1-3 Syracuse State team that hasn't shown much of anything this season and lost by over 50 to SAFA earlier in the season. We know this offense is going to be one of the best in the NSCF but this defense just surrendered 40 points to a team that had scored a total of 40 points in its three previous encounters. While I think the Mineral Conference isn't very good, the big test for Baker Park should come next week against SAFA as they look to try and recapture the conference.

10. Université St. Croix - Quebec and Shingoryeo (+4)
Conference: Woodlands (1st)
Record: 4-0
Last Week: Defeated Universidad de Barvard 27-9

While Saguenay faltered against a hot New Lakeland squad who got oblitereated by St. Croix earlier this season, the second school from Quebec and Shingoryeo won by 18 points. While like Saugenay who were in 8th up until this week, St. Croix have an elite offense their defense has allowed the second least points in the entire NSCF second only to Salamantic ahead even of FSU. While the Woodlands might not be that good, St. Croix have dominated thus far and at 4-0 deserve to make the list. They will only increase if they can knock off Saguenay next week in what could be a battle for Woodlands supremacy.

11. Cold Hill University - Ranoria (-7)
Conference: Big Eight (3rd)
Record: 2-2
Last Week: Lost to Kohnhead City 44-6

Just how much did Diamond Rhine mean to this team is the question all Cold Hill fans and staff will be asking as move on to freshman hotshot Aurel Strathos in their title defense. The reason they drop this many spots is not only because of Rhine's injury but because of how badly they lost to Kohnhead City despite the flu outbreak. In addition you have to wonder how the flu effects this team next week against Swisston City who have shown themselves to be no punching bag. If Cold Hill want to win the Big Eight again and go back to back to back to back in making the Championship they will need to do better and this would be without Rhine.

12. Université du Saguenay - Quebec and Shingoryeo (-4)
Conference: Woodlands (2nd)
Record: 3-1
Last Week: Lost to New Lakeland 43-31

Saguenay was just chugging along at 3-0 with a prolific offense before New Lakeland came into South Bend and beat them by 12. The school from Cassadaigua got blown out by St. Croix earlier this season and to me it looked like Saguenay looked past them a bit and who could blame them as they potentially got ready to face another undefeated team in their rivals St. Croix. New Lakeland had other plans and beat them by 12 showing that perhaps the Woodlands is better than we had previously thought which isn't saying much. As mentioned before next week is a big one between Saguenany and St. Croix and I'd be worried about the Saguenany defense against such a good team offensively.

13. Squidroidia Armed Forces Academy - Squidroidia (-2)
Conference: Mineral (2nd)
Record: 3-1
Last Week: Lost to Freedom's Altar 34-24

The way SAFA's week mirrors that of Saguenay's is eerily similar. Both teams sat undefeated heading into week 4 and prepared for a matchup at their home stadium for an up and coming team that sat at 2-1. Both nations are the defending champions of their conference who were looking ahead to a week 5 matchup between the other undefeated team in the conference who came in second the season prior and themselves. Both lost by double digits in a surprising defeat, personally I think the Squidbreak have a lot to prove this season and that the Mineral title which they shockingly captured from the Commonwealth last season might not be so easy to keep. Their offense which had been so talented this season only put up 24 which while nothing to scoff at is not what they have normally been producing.

14. Salamantic Universities - Ko-oren (-2)
Conference: Celestia (3rd)
Record: 2-2
Last Week: Defeated Waikoloa Village 16-0

Salamantic have sort of been pushed back this season and have yet to impress me, yes they're a Ko-oren school and so they won't be scoring many points or blowing out teams but at 2-2 they just seem to lack a lot of things that last year's team had. This team will definitely struggle to make the playoffs in such a loaded year and in a loaded conference with both Banijan schools. Last year they swept both Loyola and NMU, this year they are 0-2 in two meetings with Banijan schools, the next two matches with Loyola and NMU might determine their fate.

15. Swisston City University - Kohnhead (N/A)
Conference: Big Eight (4th)
Record: 3-1
Last Week: Defeated Richardson 44-33

That's right, the Big Eight now has four teams and I think it's safe to say that the Big Eight even with Rhine's injury is the best conference in college football. Richardson were coming off of a win against Kohnhead City and had already beaten Cold Hill, all Swisston had done was beat the Kalactin schools and get blown out by KCU. Led by a career best performance from Diego Rodriguez the Army Knives shockingly upset the Governors and first place team in these power rankings to send the college football world into chaos. It was very tight between them and New Lakeland and right now it's looking like this will be the Pioneer Bowl matchup but it is still quite early and Swisston City will have another chance to prove themselves with a trip to The Tundra to face Rhineless Cold Hill.

First Five Out: New Lakeland University, Freedom's Altar University, Cavsar University, Bowerstone University, Ceneisis Naval Academy

Conference Totals
Big Eight: 4
Celestia: 3
Horizon: 2
Zephyr: 2
Woodlands: 2
Mineral: 2

World Cup 81/82/83/84

Warriors host Squidbreak for Week 5
By Aaron Hardison
UC Correspondent for The Times

University iof the Commonwealth closes out the first half of Mineral Conference play when they host Squidroidia Armed Forces Academy at Gleason Field for Sunday Night NSCF, with the teams tied atop the standings at 4-0--

Wait, that's not true. While UC were in a wild shootout against Syracuse State, SAFA were in a dogfight of their own at home against Freedom's Altar. When the dust finally settled, the Flames had stolen a victory and UC held top spot in the MinCo, which they hope to solidify heading into the second half of the campaign.

Head Coach Ryan Benton was asked about the turn of fortune that puts his team in the drivers seat.
"Well, first of all we can't let what happened to them happen to us. We stress to the guys that focusing on our own business is the only thing we should be doing; I think there was some paper talk in Squidroidia even before that game where it seemed like they were only worrying about us, measuring their early performances relative to how we were playing. It's different being the hunted rather the hunter, and I think we were living rent-free in their heads a bit."

The game will pit the 6th & 7th highest scoring offenses in the NSCF, and while UC gave up 40 to Syracuse, they still are the best defense in the conference, allowing just 16ppg which is good enough for 5th overall.

The current NSCF landscape continues to evolve across other conferences in a similar way that the last season played out; Cold Hill find themselves now looking up at Kohnhead City in the Big 8 without their talisman and leader Deondre Rhine, and Richardson are also being pushed by Swisston City, to make it a four team scramble; meanwhile, New Lakeland of Cassadaigua, in their first outing in the college game, are jostling with the Quebecois schools in the Woodlands.

The UC Athletic Department announced that they have filled the final non-conference slot for week 13, with Northern Dinagat State visiting Gleason Field. That means two Celestia Conference teams will bookend the trip to Ranoria for the annual Richardson matchup, as a misunderstanding about dates means that RU and Northern Moravica swap their normal order, which also means the Cougars will be the final Sunday night opponents at Gleason, certainly guaranteeing a sell-out.

Vietussia Acadmeny will be next up on the home slate following the SAFA contest. While the Vulcans have struggled in their return, they will have Head Coach Xavier Nogueras back in charge following a leave of absence to tend to family matters.

by **Quebec and Shingoryeo** » Sun Mar 14, 2021 9:23 pm

Now And Forever

PART 17 (59) - Hoppípolla

PRESENT - River Lea

'I still can't believe you have the audacity to be at stadium this late in night,' Christine II cleared her throat, slowly gesturing Asher not to shake his left hand as they were watching the St. Croix Bleu et Blanc play. With the way the Marching band was playing, it was clear that the game was as good as over in the first quarter. Xannerian Polytechnical Institute, on a gradual decline of form over past half-decade, was being throttled in every drive by this St. Croix team, whom had scored in their first two possessions and never looked back. 'Shouldn't you be back in Montreal?'

'I'm aware, and perhaps too aware of that fact, your majesty.' Asher shrugged off the Queen's words in the most courteous manner he could pull off. 'And it's not helped by the fact that I'm not allowed to smoke in your presence, even as you had grown up in the army of smokers.' This was true- the country was filled with smokers of both green and bitter variants, and the anti-smoking campaign's gradual effort to reduce smoking's been ongoing at the slow pace it's been running under. Being a friend of Her Majesty came with its own perks, but also its own restrictions. One of them happened to be smoking restrictions, something that didn't help his state in middle of very unstable situations in Montreal, where he's been staying with increasing frequency. 'But it's beyond my control in delivering reportage, and the Taegukgi still demands I stay for extended lengths.'

'Fair enough, but you should start packing your bags early, else you may miss the last MACH train back home.' The monarch reminded him, as they looked at a 47-yard field goal attempt. 'Maybe think about how you're going to take a cab from the station instead of the Underground...'

'Your Majesty, I don't think that's really the concern you should be having...'

'Is it?' Christine asked, watching Asher think twice about said matter. 'It doesn't comfort any man, or specifically woman, when there's a bloody murder on South Shores by a policeman, a Bobby, a month ago and now we've seen three consecutive murders in the same district of your city.' Christine shrugged in disapproval, as the St. Croix kicked the second field goal of the night, to make it 34-7 against a hapless XPI side.

'You know Eileen is lot stronger than that, even as I may sound deaf to the realities faced by women outside their homes. Perhaps I'm being too diplomatic on this, ma'am, but the fear should not take away from how the Bleu et Blanc will win, I'm sure.' Asher sighed, as he watched the Queen chuckle at how embarrassed the Taegukgi's finest young journalist were, before writing down a line on his notebook about the field goal and the angle of the kick.

The queen had given Asher a fitting invitation for the night, partly because she knew The Tageukgi was having him cover the last 2 of 5 high school baseball championships instead of the first two he wrote about, but also because she needed to find a little bit of space. Of course, they had meant well- that's what good friends are for- but the continued tension in Asher's relationships, as well as all the preparations he's been undergoing in a literary career, had meant that there would be lots of uncertainties both parties had about. Perhaps that's an exchange of good St. Croix football after all, especially as the younger group of guys galvanised around the fiery words of encouragement from the St. Alban's alumnus.

If only he had these medium-well done plans for his beloved….

FUTURE - What A Day

HRH Alexandre couldn’t keep his head straight in the middle of the St. Croix-Saguenay football match; the derby alone wasn’t enough to keep himself from thinking about the stories of the Bal des Ballons last night. Having slept on his own bed in Palais Royale for the first time in three months, and rather early at nine p.m, Alexandre wasn’t sure on how he was able to stay calm about the pomp and circumstance until the waking moment.

Not that it mattered much on a long course though- the seventeen-year old Head Boy was just happy to see that Claire Lundrigan, the junior whom the whole school had known about his romantic interest, accepted his invitation to join him for the saturday night showdown at the Stade St. Croix.

That was a good feeling to wake up, Alexandre nodded, as he remembered how he, filled with a sudden rush of excitement that came as he checked his phone, went about the jolly good prince’s way into the Breakfast. The crown prince remembered how much hassle it took on his front, from persuading his mother to use the Royal Box for his personal purposes, to arrange discreet but quiet security arrangements with the Palace staff. Not to mention persuading his father, whose ban on any senior members of the royal house attending Balls until age twenty, to land him an alternative.

Of course Alexandre wasn’t sure how long that feeling was going to last into the Sunday evening, when a half-dozen Avon-Gillespie students, consisting of Alexandre, Claire and a couple of upperclassmen, were going to be back in their school eight hours away by Ocean overnight express, but at least there would be that intimate space between the two. Perhaps, by the time they all return into their Monday morning classes, Alexandre (not their friend, Heo Myeong-Geon) would be the lucky one at the end of what’s been fifteen sleepless months.

Long a womaniser and the sailor at heart, Alexandre had wondered if he could really seal the deal for once. His resemblance to the grandfather he never met in Jacques IX the Conqueror, combined with the boundless energy he possessed, had meant that Alexandre would go on million dates but never made them stay. When he was little he became perhaps too aware of that, without explaining much to his father’s understanding, but somehow the situation changed and now he had to be the one who had to give some answers.

PAST - Who’s Crying Now

Feeling the time freeze before, Asher fixed his glasses and looked at the other two pairs, also consisting of a man and a woman, before him. The colours of the stadium and the people turned grey and white, and the wind of fate starting blowing over them. The merge of past, present and future had come before them, with Asher internally blown by its sheer impact.

Coughing once, Asher first looked to the far left, staring at the couple much younger than themselves. She looks....too much like Eileen, Asher thought, clearly noticing the way the teenager had dressed, and scratched his left underside of the neck. Standing right next to him was a slightly older male, with his walking posture and the physique implying that he was a royal. While Asher was unsure on the identity of the male, who also didn't fit the list of any senior member he knew of their age, it was enough for him to make a judgement. The security guards, armed with slightly modernised version of arms they held, were also different people as well, but not much else were given to suggest that this was anything but the future.

The beauty of Eileen's daughter was still all he noticed, and without thinking too much about the tall, muscular prince who looked more like a hockey player (acute evaluator of talent! I'd like to say), Asher decided to look at the near-future time....

But Asher knew there was no point to it. The game was good as over for the Bleu et Blanc, but the sounds were no longer audible, and the pitiful sight of his buds on the Line of Scrimmage were scarcely on his eyes. Whatever his fellow players were viewing, in the present time where the Bleu et Blanc were having a comfortable time beating the Big Blue, meant little, and all that was left was his certainty, and Asher couldn't help but to feel the certainty around leaving Quebec under the blessings of the holy and the fateful.

'I will only be back if the fate wills me,' Asher said to himself, 'And there shall be only one exception. Someone who I will protect and love, to rectify my past mistakes.'

by **Quebec and Shingoryeo** » Sun Mar 14, 2021 9:25 pm

Celestia & Zephyr
MD5 Cutoff!

Celestia Conference
University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder (BNJ) 37–10 Fair Haven State Blue Jays (BAR)
University of Waikoloa Village Humuhumunukunukuapua'a (UVI) 7–46 Northern Moravica University Cougars (BNJ)
Northern Dinagat State Panthers (BAR) 10–23 Salamantic Universities Professors (KOR)

# Celestia Conference                                          Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder (BNJ)                 5    5   0   188   84 +104
2 Northern Moravica University Cougars (BNJ)                     5    4   1   184   99  +85
3 Salamantic Universities Professors (KOR)                       5    3   2    85   53  +32
4 Fair Haven State Blue Jays (BAR)                               5    2   3   103  139  −36
5 Northern Dinagat State Panthers (BAR)                          5    1   4   108  162  −54
6 University of Waikoloa Village Humuhumunukunukuapua'a (UVI)    5    0   5    43  174 −131

Zephyr Conference
Raynor University Rockets (VAL) 55–9 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns (AFT)
Stevan Vaalburger Academy Shieldwall (ALS) 7–38 Mar Sara Tech Raiders (VAL)
Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists (NGD) 14–17 Bowerstone University Bearcats (ATH)

# Zephyr Conference                                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Mar Sara Tech Raiders (VAL)                           5    5   0   178   88  +90
2 Raynor University Rockets (VAL)                       5    4   1   226   78 +148
3 Bowerstone University Bearcats (ATH)                  5    3   2   110  137  −27
4 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns (AFT)                  5    2   3    90  130  −40
5 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists (NGD)    5    1   4   102  154  −52
6 Stevan Vaalburger Academy Shieldwall (ALS)            5    0   5    42  161 −119

by **Drawkland** » Sun Mar 14, 2021 11:48 pm

Big Eight & Woodlands
MD5

Late cutoff, but somehow not last ...

BIG EIGHT
Richardson University 22–19 Lismore Christian College
Cold Hill University 29–17 Swisston City University
Akers University 14–30 Kohnhead City University

  BIG EIGHT CONFERENCE               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Richardson University                5    4   1   169  126  +43
2 Kohnhead City University             5    4   1   223   85 +138
3 Cold Hill University                 5    3   2   167  125  +42
4 Swisston City University             5    3   2   152  154   −2
5 Akers University                     5    1   4    90  201 −111
6 Lismore Christian College            5    0   5   120  230 −110

WOODLANDS
New Lakeland University 36–9 New Springs University
Université St. Croix 55–17 Université du Saguenay
Xannerian Polytechnical Institute 30–37 Universidad de Barvard

  WOODLANDS CONFERENCE               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Université St. Croix                 5    5   0   208   72 +136
2 New Lakeland University              5    4   1   153   86  +67
3 Université du Saguenay               5    3   2   184  145  +39
4 Universidad de Barvard               5    2   3   109  139  −30
5 Xannerian Polytechnical Institute    5    1   4    91  182  −91
6 New Springs University               5    0   5    72  193 −121

NSCF 23 - Everything Thread

NSFB: We Can Be Good, But Never Good Enough

Big Eight, Woodlands: MD4

NSFB: Finally, Feathercaps Fly To Victory!

Big Eight, Woodlands: MD5

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