NSCF 24 - Everything Thread

[Drawkland]

Big Eight & Woodlands
MD8

the season is winding down already ... and I'm still being late!

BIG EIGHT
Cold Hill University (RAN) 43–23 Kohnhead City University (KND)
Rajendragadh College (PRT) 31–48 Swisston City University (KND)
Richardson University (RAN) 43–6 Green Mountain State (BUF)

  BIG EIGHT CONFERENCE                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Cold Hill University                  8    7   1   258  180  +78
2 Kohnhead City University              8    5   3   267  182  +85
3 Richardson University                 8    5   3   204  130  +74
4 Green Mountain State                  8    4   4   191  223  −32
5 Swisston City University              8    3   5   243  225  +18
6 Rajendragadh College                  8    0   8   123  346 −223

WOODLANDS
Tchust Fhergys University (MAL) 9–19 Brat Tech (CDG)
Atheburn National University (GRU) 13–23 New Lakeland University (CDG)
Université du Saguenay (QUE) 3–29 Université St. Croix (QUE)

  WOODLANDS CONFERENCE                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Brat Tech                             8    5   3   209  145  +64
2 New Lakeland University               8    5   3   199  133  +66
3 Atheburn National University          8    4   4   183  222  −39
4 Université St. Croix                  8    4   4   142   90  +52
5 Université du Saguenay                8    4   4   162  163   −1
6 Tchust Fhergys University             8    2   6   123  265 −142

[Ko-oren]

The Salamantic Problem #3 - Player Logistics

Are these players really on a gazillion different universities?

Yes, they are. This first paragraph is just going to be a summary of the previous two Salamantic Problems, isn't it? They're from different universities, play together for half the year during the NSCF season, and are doing academia full time in the other half of the year. Obviously, both tasks blend into the 'other' half of the year. All players have completed a Bachelor's degree and are on their way towards a Master's degree or a doctorate.

How do they find the time to train together?

During the NSCF season (and several weeks before it starts), all players are in the same location, much like a conventional team, to work on gameplans and run throughs. Most of the medical work and workouts have already been completed in the 'other' half of the year, which leaves the actual NSCF season mostly for bodily maintenance and strategy. While in this months-long training camp, they have time to work on their studies in between sessions, but they get some time off as well.

Where do they train?

This changes from time to time. The Professors have a fully kitted out training complex in Arakura, which also has one of their home venues (the Nishikoli Dome). Since most players are not from the island Arakura is on, it's a logistic nightmare in and of itself to get everyone there (which includes a bunch of trains and ferries, usually). Most of the season, they're at a facility in Cote Austral - that's between the home venue cities of Amillon and Granon/Étouille - which is easy to get to from just about anywhere in the country. It's not too far from there to Mayara's, Esporro/Ferrovente's, and even Laringen's home venues.

Does it work?

You tell me. Who's first in Celestia now?

[Banija]

Horizon
MD8

It's time for The Great Escape to Matchday 8!

Horizon Conference
Hoofstra University (KRD) 24–7 Adirondack University (SAS)
Anasb Central University (STR) 6–33 Sadeg State University (DRK)
Felswyr State University (CMT) 37–12 Cavsar University (DRK)

Horizon Conference              Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Sadeg State University            8    7   1   259  140 +119
2 Hoofstra University               8    6   2   215  135  +80
3 Felswyr State University          8    6   2   178  134  +44
4 Cavsar University                 8    3   5   216  246  −30
5 Anasb Central University          8    1   7   139  229  −90
6 Adirondack University             8    1   7   104  227 −123

[TJUN-ia]

After a two-game road slide against both the CNA and Mar Sara Tech effectively ended our Zephyr Conference hopes, the Trent State Feathercaps were practically relieved when they finally made it back to their home base in Notts absolutely demoralised after the events of the last 2 weeks. Johnny Bridgeford knew how painful everything felt to this team, this unit filled mates and lovers and everything in between, but he also knew that the best teams moved on from defeat and push forward towards the next test. That was what he intended to do as the other school from Valanora finally came to Sherwood Field for a football game. TSU has hosted MST twice before but now, at last, the Raynor Rockets were here: current joint-leaders with Mar Sara and the team who beat us by 20 at their place on Week 3. With no pressure to succeed on our shoulders anymore, TSU was now playing for the pride of Notts and the pride of TJUN-ian Gridiron...and they would certainly fight like warriors tonight.

If this game could be described by only a single word, then "tight" would be the one most people would use. TJUN-ian teams in this sport always seem to perform their best when they play at home and tonight would be no exception as Sherwood Field got behind their team and practically dragged them into contention against what should be a superior opponent. Only 4 TDs would be scored within the 4 Quarters, but they would all be important in telling the tale of this game. Q1 saw the visitors take the lead through a run by star QB Håkon Schau, but Mohamad Ström would miss the extra point. Q2 would see the Caps do the same: Baldwin running in a 5 yard TD, but Clayton McGee would miss his kick as well - 6-all at the half, the perfect example of a slogfest. Raynor took the lead back in the third through a 23 tard pass from Schau to Emil Gundersen and with Ström making his 2nd conversion attempt, the Rockets held a crucial 7-point entering the 4th. The crowd were trying their best to drag their team back into this contest but with 5 mins to go and on their own 5-yard line, things looked bleak. Then Baldwin found the very fast Victor Que-et-Vous, who then proceeded to avoid 3 defenders before sprinting away to the opposite end zone as the Horseshoe racked itself into pandemonium. McGee completed the extra point, 13-13, game well and truly back on. Nothing else would happen and so, this one would be heading to Overtime despite the odds being stacked against the Caps.

The Rockets would get the ball first and they tried to put pressure on us from the off, but Jessica Farron knew what was coming and, as history suggests, would become clutch in the big moments once again with a key interception on 3rd and 12. That raised the roof on the place and when Baldwin found Fremont Whitehorse for the game-winner, there would be no stopping the crowd from storming the field and celebrating with their team. Raynor now knows how Mar Sara feels about coming to Notts. The Horseshoe has become the eternal trap game for Valanorian schools. Jhonny Bridgeford may have well and truly decided the fate of the Zephyr on his own. We travel to Mancondas for the final road game with our heads held high, knowing full well that TSU can still deliver when required. WE ARE! TRENT STATE!

---

SCHEDULE (ZEPHYR Conference + 3 Non-Conf)
Week 1: vs Ceneisis Naval Academy (AFT) W 47-17 (1-0)
Week 2: vs Mar Sara Tech (VAL) W 40-20 (2-0)
Week 3: @Raynor U (VAL) L 33-13 (2-1)
Week 4: vs Mancodas (PFA) W 37-13 (3-1)
Week 5: @TCC (NGD) W 24-15 (4-1)
Week 6: @Ceneisis Naval Academy (AFT) L 31-31 (37-31 OT) (4-2)
Week 7: @Mar Sara Tech (VAL) L 6-32 (4-3)
Week 8: vs Raynor U (VAL) W 13-13 (20-13 OT) (5-3)
Week 9: @Mancodas (PFA)
Week 10: vs TCC (NGD)
---------------------Non-Conference---------------------
Week 11: vs Elephant Valley (SNL)
Week 12: vs Cold Hill (RAN)
Week 13: @Swisston City (KND)

[Banija]

Banijan recruiting roundup- Banija's top 9 future NSCF players

BUSUKUMA, NATIONAL CAPITOL REGION- Banija has always had strict high school recruiting rules, in terms of when schools were allowed to talk to prospects. It is a much further extended dead period than a lot of other countries. Traditionally, it is to make sure that high school athletes "are on solid footing academically" before they start talking to college scouts. Aka, make sure they're well into the school year. Is it reasonable? DOes it make a lot of sense in the modern day and age, with phones and the internet and social media and what not?

The world may never know. But it is what it is. And the dead period is over, anyways- we are alive and well! And now, for these ratings. We generally bring the top 6 in Banija to you- but this year, we'll expand the list, bringing the top 9 prospects. We'll have the top rated graduate transfer, the top rated JUCO transfer, and the top 7 recruits out of high school.

Without further ado!

Graduate Transfer- QB Lafi Jawo, Hangaza A&M University, Garixas, Hangaza Region
Measurables: 6'6, 224 pounds. 4.66 40 yard dash.
Academic Interests: Master's of Business Administration
NSCF XXV Class: Redshirt Senior.

And now, for the grad transfer QB, Lafi Jawo. Now, we're highlight a player from where? Hangaza A&M? Even though his school went .500 and lost in the first round of the playoffs, the air raid QB believes that he can go out and make a difference in the NSCF. He slung the ball more than any other QB in domestic Banijan college football this year, with over 500 pass attempts (a Banijan regular season record), throwing for 5,000 yards and 50 TDs, alongside 19 interceptions.

Jawo has a cannon for an arm, is aggressive, and is certainly a leader on and off the field, being a three year captain. However, he can certainly be overly aggressive both on and off the field. He's always going, all the time. He got suspended for one game his second year at A&M for getting into a fight at practice. If somebody wants to light up the field and scoreboard, and believes they can corral this character, he will certainly become a household name at whatever school picks him up- although the why for that will remain up in the air.

JUCO Transfer- C/OG Pa Soley, Kargbo Community College, Busukuma, National Capitol Region
Measurables: 6'5, 300 pounds. 5.49 40 yard dash.
Academic Interests: Political Science and International Relations
NSCF XXV Class: Redshirt Junior

Now, we're sure what the question is here- how did a guy who was 6'5 and 300+ pounds get missed by not only Banija's big two NSCF schools, but the entire Banijan collegiate scene, and slip away to playing junior college football? You'd think at that size, he'd be bowling through high schoolers. It's because he never played gridiron in high school- Pa Soley was a wrestler in high school, and went to Kargbo Community College, the local community college, to do just that.

But his freshman year, Kargbo Community College cut their wrestling program, for reasons of budget shortfalls. So he switched to the other sport a man of his size and stature could do- football. After redshirting a year(possible in junior college in Banija!), he began playing organized gridiron for the first time. And it turned out, he had an aptitude for it. His Coach told reporters that if Soley had been playing gridiron in high school, he'd have been corralled by one of Banija's NSCF schools by now.

Solely's main weakness, besides only having one year of game experience in this sport in his lifetime, is that he's pretty slow- a 5.49 40 yard dash is terribly slow, even for an offensive line. But even though he lacks straight line speed in getting down the field, he's learnign technique, he's extremely coachable, and he's always aggressive at the point of attack. He played center for Kargbo CC, but his skillset will transfer easily to any of the three interior linemen spots.

Rapid-Fire Banijan Recruiting Guide
Region with highest concentration of talent: Moravica Region
Best High school football program in the country: Cass Tech(Busukuma), St. Sava Prep(South of Istria)
Region that produces the most skill players: Moravica Region, Busukuma/National Capitol Region(co-terminous), Kitara Region
Region that produces the biggest linemen: Aksum Region
Regions that are Northern Moravica hotbeds: Moravica Region, Aksum Region, Hangaza Region
Regions that are Loyola-Istria hotbeds: Moravica Region, Kitara Region, National Capitol Region
Regions most likely to produce a multi-sport athlete: Moravica Region, Buganda Region

#7 OLB Masresha Meba- Karonma High School, Karonma, Moravica(12 miles north of Herzegovina City)
Measurables: 6'1, 215 pounds. 4.49 40 yard dash.
Academic Interests: Accounting

Meba is a rangy outside linebacker who ranks on this year's edition of the Top 7 players in Banija.

Karonma is a smaller school in a small town right outside Herzegovina City. With only 400 total kids at the school, there was no JV or Freshman team- just a varsity squad. Meba was able to become a starter on that varsity squad as a freshman, and he never looked back. While he is not a EDGE/DE prototype kind of player, he is more of a traditional outside linebacker. He is rangy, capable of covering running backs and tight ends, and has excellent fundamentals in wrapping up, as well as advanced play diagnosis capabilities.

Could he get a little bulkier? Yes, but that will be up to the strength regime of whatever school he goes to. His biggest weakness is his pass rushing ability- which there are a lot of question marks about because Karonma simply never asks him to do so. However, with his reported work ethic, he is more than capable of becoming that workhorse linebacker on Saturdays.

#6 FS/SS/CB Fassil Einku- Thando Chocaze High School, Jinja City, Hangaza Region
Measurables: 6'0, 203 pounds. 4.42 40 yard dash.
Academic Interests: Supply Chain Management

The rangy free safety. At 6'0, 203 pounds, Fassil Einku is an athletic maestro. Capable of playing any of the three defensive back positions, Chocaze High School coaches consistently used him as a defensive swiss army knife, putting him all over the field because of his ability to make plays. He hits hard, he runs hard, he can run with anyone, and rarely gets outhustled or outsmarted. He's a proven contributor on special teams as well, with one punt return and three kick returns for a touchdown in this senior year of his.

What is his weakness? Because his coaches loved to use him as a swiss army knife, he hasn't really mastered any singular position on defense. Therefore, whatever position coaches put him at, he'll need to be focus trained there. While his range would expect some team to put him at free safety, his strength means that strong safety or even cornerback could be solid positions for him as well. Look for Einku to sit a year while learning whatever position is chosen for him, and then star starting NSCF XXVI.

#5 MLB Ali Abdi(Busoga Islands)- Sirak Kaleyesus High School, Rukunbi District, Istria, Moravica
Measurables: 6'3, 229 pounds. 4.65 40 yard dash.
Academic Interests: Finance

Ali Abdi is a Busogan, and the highest Busogan to ever appear on this list. He actually grew up in the Busogan capitol of Lakiska, and was dominant against Busogan high school competition. However, gridiron is not that big in the Busoga Islands, and therefore, while he'd for sure get an offer at the Islamic U, he had ambitions to be the first Busogan to play abroad.

Therefore, after sophomore year, he moved from the Busoga Islands to live with his uncle, who lived in Istria, the same city as Loyola University. And, of course, play at the local public high school there. Giving up life with his immediate family, he came to Banija's biggest city and immediately prospered. He's the first to practice and the last to leave, consistently working on his footwork, his lateral quickness, and his ability to wrap.

He shot up recruiting charts after a stellar junior year, being the only linebacker in the city to rack up 100 tackles in just 9 regular season games that year. While Abdi does not have particularly great straight line, which would put him into trouble if he's asked to cover a wide receiver or a running back in space, his ability to stay focused and grounded make him an excellent candidate to be a future team leader.

#4 OG Kassa Essayas- Cass Technical High School, Busukuma, National Capitol Region
Measurables: 6'5, 279 pounds. 4.79 40 yard dash.
Academic Interests: Employment & Labor Relations

The first of two players from the country's best program, Cass Tech. A big interior lineman who is quick for his size, Essayas has all types of talent. Capable of playing guard on either side, he is large, has good lateral quickness, and loves run blocking. There's nothing like Essayas celebrating a pancake, and his explosiveness off the football is something to behold.

What is his weakness, then? Why is he only #4? His weakness is that he doesn't like to pass block. Now, that's not necessarily the end of the world- most linemen don't like to pass block. But while he is quite good at it, he has been known to give up on plays. When plays break down, he'll simply stop, which aggravates the coaches to no end. He has all the tools of being the most dominant O-Linemen in the sport- but that work ethic is certainly in question, which is why he isn't #1.

But talent, speed, and measurables can't be taught. Which NSCF coach thinks he can instill the work ethic into Essayas to make him fulfill his potential?

#3 DE/EDGE Sizo Ashenafi- Cass Technical High School, Busukuma, National Capitol Region
Measurables: 6'4, 268 pounds. 4.49 40 yard dash.
Academic Interests: Tourism & Travel Service Management

What's the biggest advantage a defense can have? The ability to get to the quarterback. If you can successfully rush the Quarterback while only bringing four, you have a massive advantage as a defense- you can cover with seven, still get pressure, and give opposing QBs a massive fit. Ashenafi is the type of player who is capable of being that difference maker, the ability to consistently either get to the quarterback or force double teams.

He does this at the most stacked public high school in the country, Cass Tech. And he's a key in making them one of the most dominant high school programs the country sees. Being a three year starter at a school competitive as this one is mad impressive, where they've consistently got one or two grads in Banija's top 7, consistently going against the nation's best linemen both on the field, and in practice. Ashefani has the fundamentals down, and combines good size with quickness. He needs to improve at play recognition and at run defense, as he can get caught off guard if he's expecting a pass play and they run the football. But if he can be helped at the mental part of the game, who can stop him?

#2 RB Zamandi Ayana- Trinity High School, Busembe, Kitara Region
Measurables: 6'3, 231 pounds. 4.43 40 yard dash.
Academic Interests: Public Health

A big, powerful running back who is going to put his head and shoulder down, and run right through anybody. Ayana is known as somebody who will never avoid contact or a hit- he likes to run straight through people. And considering his speed and size, he is very capable of doing that, having bowled over every football player in South Kitara.

His last two years he's gotten better at avoiding players, working on his juke moves and cut moves, and implementing that into games, which shot him up the recruiting charts. Two years ago, he'd have barely made the top 20 on the extended list for NSCF XXV recruiting class- but now, he's hit the top 2. His only concern, of course, is that he does not get asked much to be involved in the passing game. He can pass block, but whether he is good receiving the ball is an open question.

However, considering the damage he does in the open field as a runner, many expect that he'd be able to contribute in the passing game if asked to do so.

#1 WR Gabriel Yafet- Resurrection High School, Bwubanza, Bunyoro
Measurables: 6'4, 231 pounds. 4.40 40 yard dash.
Academic Interests: International Marketing

Gabriel Yafet has all the characteristics of a future superstar receiver. He's got the size, the speed, the hands, and the work ethic. He's even got the particular attitude characteristic of #1 wideouts at the pro level, as he's known for extravagant touchdown celebrations when he reaches the end zone in Bwubanza.

Is there anything slowing down Yafet? Not really- for his age, he's pretty much elite at everything. Even his route running, he dominates competition in Bwubanza regularly and finds his way open against even consistent double teams. The only thing is that the competition he plays is particularly poor. The competition in that part of the country is probably the worst in any big city in Banija? That is basketball country, and that is undoubtedly the rare spot where basketball is more popular than gridiron.

Still- his skillset should transfer anywhere. He might need a little bit of time to adjust to the competition level of the NSCF, but once he gets used to the increased speeds and physicality of college football, he should be on a path of stardom, following in the footsteps of other great Banijan NSCF WRs like Chinweuba Jelan and Lamin Kah.

[South Newlandia]

Professors      14  0  0  7   21
Red Elephants    0  3  0  7   10

1Q: SU 4 yd TD (Hunniford) 7-0
1Q: SU 5 yd TD (Juldhauthaunden -> yMaellceoff) 14-0
2Q: EVU 38 yd FG (Jackson) 14-3
4Q: SU 3 yd TD (Dart) 21-3
4Q: EVU 28 yd TD (Herron -> Nissen) 21-10

Red Elephants    3  7  3  14   27
Cougars         21  0  7   7   35

1Q: NMU 13 yd TD (Wagner-Young -> Lewis) 0-7
1Q: NMU 34 yd int return TD (Gonzalez) 0-14
1Q: EVU 30 yd FG (Jackson) 3-14
1Q: NMU 8 yd TD (Wagner-Young -> Esther) 3-21
2Q: EVU 86 yd int TD (Grey Jr.) 10-21
3Q: NMU 7 yd TD (Wagner-Young) 10-28
3Q: EVU 23 yd FG (Jackson) 13-28
4Q: EVU 1 yd TD (Gerhart) 20-28
4Q: NMU 25 yd TD (Esther) 20-35
4Q: EVU 6 yd TD (Herron -> Kim) 27-35


The South Newlandian schooling system

Age 0-1
As could be expected, the South Newlandian government spends a lot of money in all kinds of social services, and education, especially for small children, is no exception. South Newlandian parents have 18 months of fully paid leave they can split between father and mother, although every parent can only take twelve months maximum (except for single parents, who can take all 18). Parents can also consider six further months of partially paid leave, where parents are paid a certain amount regardless of income, making this a common way to go for especially less well-off parents. Because of this, many children get to grow up with their parents right there for two years.

Age 2-5
At this age, most children will be spending a sizeable portion each day at kindergarten as their parents often return to work. Most of those childcare facilities are government-run and completely free of charge. Children usually stay until the afternoon, getting an age-appropriate lunch, lots of play-time, and elephant-plasters should they fall. Generally, those are great places to be a kid, and that’s because the staff is not only well-paid for, but also enjoys plenty of benefits. It’s not easy to get into these jobs, though – only the best will be taken by the facilities. At this age, children are not supposed to be focused on learning yet – around age 5, most children will start to get some elementary reading ability and a very basic grasp at maths, but this is supposed to all happen playfully.

Age 6-10
In elementary school, children will further their general knowledge about how things work. Most classes, who are comprised of about 15-20 children, will have few teachers; including one for most of the important subjects (the other one’s commonly are specific teachers for sports and similar edge subjects). This is another of those well-paid, tough-to-get-into professions – South Newlandia takes early education seriously. Also, later education – just education in general, to be honest. At this age, children will take their first steps into sciences, history, and similar subjects. Additionally, all children will have swimming lessons in school, making sure every young kid is at least able to survive any kind of emergency.

Age 10-17
In middle and high school, children are going to learn things and eventually graduate, much like you’d expect it from most other schools. In high school, some kids will also choose to pick up a sport, like baseball, soccer, or football, or even chess (about in this other of total number of students) to pursue. There are grade requirements, though – unless a special exception is granted, students may not play high school sports under a certain grade level. Two other aspects about South Newlandian school stand out: Standardized testing exists, but never counts into the final grade of students and isn’t used for funding distribution either. Additionally, all tests of any kind are blindly graded, meaning that a teacher has no idea what student a test is from. Without a special exception, students are not allowed to leave the school system before obtaining their high school degree. To make sure everyone has a chance, students are able to drop almost every subject they dislike, because they are able to pick from many different available classes. Unlike in elementary school, students are not always in the same class, but learn together with different students in every class with regard to their level. Most schools have around 1000 total students between middle and high school, and more than 100 teachers.

Age 18-22
Many students choose to continue their schooling in college, able to obtain many different degrees in both South Newlandia and other countries. For athletes, their time largely depends on the sport they chose. Soccer players usually leave school as soon as possible, football players usually play in college, chess players usually drop chess, and baseball players are pretty much a mixed back of all the three above and playing while taking classes, which is rarer, but has been a successful route for some.


Of course, none of this has anything to do with the Red Elephants, who are getting schooled by Celestia.

[Buffalostan]

Week 7

      1   2   3   4   F
CHU   7  10   7   3  27
GMS   0   7   0   7  14
BOX                                                                 CHU  GMS
  1 Rai Swift 6 yard pass from Aurel Strathos (Jang Bo-Ah kick)       7    0
  2 Chris Nevin 3 yard pass from Josh Moore (Callum Ryan kick)        7    7
    Jang Bo-Ah 40 yard field goal                                    10    7
    Brannon Hillis 7 yard run (Jang Bo-Ah kick)                      17    7
  3 Brannon Hillis 1 yard run (Jang Bo-Ah kick)                      24    7
  4 Jang Bo-Ah 24 yard field goal                                    27    7
    Nate Point 41 yard pass from Joe Hlavacek (Callum Ryan kick)     27   14

Week 8

      1   2   3   4   F
GMS   0   0   6   0   6
RIC   3  19   7  14  43
BOX                                                                   GMS  RIC
  1 Shirley Woo 46 yard field goal                                      0    3
  2 Elliot Roach 2 yard run (Shirley Woo kick)                          0   10
    Astrid Verona 5 yard run (Shirley Woo kick)                         0   17
    Safety, ball snapped out of endzone                                 0   19
    Shirley Woo 28 yard field goal                                      0   22
  3 Quan Mullins 41 yard pass from Astrid Verona (Shirley Woo kick)     0   29
    Chris Nevin 1 yard pass from Joe Hlavacek (kick failed)             6   29
  4 Dustin Devlin 16 yard pass from Astrid Verona (Shirley Woo kick)    6   36
    Brandon Bettis 61 yard fumble return (Shirley Woo kick)             6   43

10 reasons why losing 43–6 is good, actually

1. Lulls opposition into a false sense of security. Admittedly, waiting until you’re 29 points down to start the comeback, and stopping after just 6, isn’t ideal. But oh boy, if we had come back – they’d never have seen us coming.

2. With Josh Moore out injured, good opportunity to ask if Joe Hlavacek could help under center. (Finding out the answer is an emphatic “no” is also useful, in its own way.)

3. Excellent cardio workout for the special teams running on and off as opposition repeatedly kick PATs.

4. Opportunity to take moral high ground about opposition running up the score. Remember, it’s 1999: the moral high ground still exists here. Just.

5. Third-string defenders rarely get this much playing time.

6. Forced Buffalostanis who couldn’t take any more to get up off their fat asses and do something useful with their Saturday.

7. Plenty of bulletin board material, motivating players to remember this defeat and avenge it next week. Or maybe the week after that, next week is going to be kinda tough.

8. Possible NSCF scorigami. OK now while the nerds are busy looking that up, we can say: ‘scorigami’ is the worst thing to ever happen to gridball and has turned a fun little bit of trivia into a merciless, joyless slog after every game. It infecting soccer is somehow even worse.

9. Fits the narrative of our QB1 being down injured nicely (or would have done had we remembered to write about it last week).

10. Sets up a positive end to the season. Because things can’t get any worse. ...right?

[Chromatika]

Notes from The Rebel
Prelude: Sarai Michelle Bradwyn Gwenderyn
Part 1: Birth and Family
Part 2: The Pigskin
Part 3: Psychological Profile
Part 4: Felswyr State
Part 5: Life Beyond Football
Part 6: Ups and Dowons

GWENDERYN
Part 7: Heroes and Role Models
or, Who Inspires Gwenderyn?
By: Aimée de Pierre, Guest Columnist

Role models carry a special place in our hearts when growing up. They are the people that have gone before, shown us what can be done, demonstrated success; they're the ones who inspire to grow, to think outside the box, to show up when the going goes rough because someone else has done it already. When it comes to famous sportspeople, the discussion against role models becomes even more fascinating: what caught the eyes of these stars? How has that influence translated to what they do in their field?

Let us take a look at the role models of Sarai Gwenderyn, their accomplishments, and the reasons why they mean so much to Sarai.

Gabriella Antonio
Accolades: Footballer - 125 Caps, 43 Goals. Chromatik National Team, World Cup 73 (BoF 50)-World Cup 78, retired after AOCAF 54.

Who was Gabriella Antonio? The lifeblood of the squad in the early going, Antonio was the sole goalscoring threat back when the team ran a 5-3-2 formation. The soft-spoken Striker/Left Winger never really spoke much to the media, but turned in the work, being one of the first players to ever play abroad in Nephara for Coret Hawks. There, she ran into Cosumarite Cormak Lethbridge, who would end up being her husband.

Then, at the age of thirty - at least four years from retirement - Gabriella Antonio called it quits. No, really. She retired from international and club football to focus on having a family. They have twin girls - Beatrice and Jayla Lethbridge-Antonio, who are already being touted as future players for the Anomalies. She shocked the sporting world by doing that, only trumped by Nikolai Thorben's departure with the Northern Sunrise Islands.

To this day, some people say that Antonio's departure was a mistake, saying that she showed her worth by turning her back on her team. There are plenty of those who argue on her behalf, saying that the fact that she stood up for her beliefs and wants is something to be proud of. Sarai, obviously, falls into that category.

"How she decided to go out in her prime, at the top of her game, in her own terms is inspiring," Gwenderyn states one sunny afternoon in a Felswyrite café where I asked her about the role models, "Nobody could dissuade Antonio that what she was doing was wrong. She wanted nothing more than to start a family and to be a mother, and she devoted her life to that when the opportunity became available. Too often, we see athletes linger on, counting on a repeat of the glory days when they should move on with their lives; too often, we see people being cut by lower leagues in the twilights of their careers or having to retire due to failing health. She did none of that - she was her own woman. That is what makes her an inspiration for me."

Gwenderyn has never met Antonio, but does remember watching some of the games on TV. She maintains that if she were to ever meet Gabriella Antonio, it would be a lifetime goal coming true - an independent spirit who called her own shots.

Xollie Lubabalo
Accolades: Banijan Ambassador to Chromatika around the First Election

Xollie Lubabalo's story - and the story of the very first Chromatik election - can be better found here. As a summary, Xollie was the ambassador to Chromatika when there was an attempt by the Checkers Party to try to stop it. The Banijan was actually egged while wearing her favorite gomesi by an egg that was aimed at an Equestrian delegate. The incident really helped the Rainbow Party get into power, and really brought together the nations of Chromatika and Banija.

In the years following, Lubabalo's presence in Chromia has only strengthened the ties between the two nations, to the point where Banija still enjoys a close relationship with Chromatika despite the Foxchester Declaration. According to the news, both Busukuma and Chromia did that independently and then decided to formalize it. Without Lubabalo? None of that happens, or it'd have taken a lot longer.

Now, Xollie Lubabalo is the leader of the Opposition Party in Banija. She has plans and is going places, and the fact that Chromatika is tied to her makes Chromatika a relevant part of Banijan society at a political level.

Why is she a role model to Sarai Gwenderyn? According to her, it was her tenacity. "She got an egg thrown at an heirloom, and she didn't miss a beat. She never raised her voice against the government nor the nation, and she was unflappable. In all of the time she was an ambassador to Chromatika, she was always respectable, always respectful, always poised. To face such pressure and not lose your cool is to be commended."

Sarai has stated that she would like to meet Lubabalo one day, and that may be more possible given her career. "To shake her hand and be able to thank her in person for what she's done for our country would be such an honor. She's someone else who stood up against adversity and came through in the clutch, a true beacon of friendship."

Keira Andisori
Accolades: Footballer - 182 Caps, 137 Goals, WC 75 - WC 87

What hasn't been said about Keira Andisori? Gone to Ethane before the age of twenty, eventually played for Starling for a long time in Nephara. Chromatika's all-time leader in Caps and Goals at the senior level, Andisori's claim to fame goes beyond the football field. She was a Shadow Writer during the Rainbow Revolution, did wonders to get The Enlightened Ones to come and trust the Chromatiks in order to get to the truth beyond Venom, and is now going to be running for the District Commissioner position for the Capital District.

Keira Andisori is a name above all names, an athlete above all athletes. Now that she's going beyond sports, her fame will skyrocket even higher. She is the face of Chromatika's future.

"Name a single person who doesn't look up to Keira Andisori," deadpans Sarai, "But to me, she's more than just a sportsperson. The way that she keeps pressing the agenda, the way she points to the future of Chromatika, the way that her personality on and off the pitch are the same... She's an inspiration."

According to Sarai, she's met Keira a few times.

"She was there after the National High School Championship games to meet the Champions. She talked to us about how winning is nice but integrity and competition are the drivers behind a sustained career. It was life-changing."

When The Rebel contacted Keira Andisori for a comment, she had this to say: "I remember meeting Sarai, and I've kept up with her career with great interest. I think she's a fine young woman who's continuing to show the nation the wonders of gridiron football and the people who call that sport their home."

What a connection. Keira Andisori, with who could be the Keira Andisori of Chromatik Gridirion.

Viktor Karras, Jr.
Accolades: Chairman, Chromatik Football Federation

The only male figure on this list, Viktor Karras's story is something special. A previous employee of the Death Templars Law Firm (the head of the Myana branch), Karras became a huge proponent for Chromatik domestic football during the two years of court battles with the Checkers Party. When the Chromatik Supreme Court ruled that the league could go on, Karras, Jr. became the Chairman of the Chromatik Football Federation.

As Chairman, Karras, Jr. continues to help both the Rainbow League System, the Chromatik Football League (Gridiron), the Chromatik Collegiate Football Association, and the various levels of the Anomalies. He does not actually run the leagues, but provides oversight and financial backup. The Chromatik government's funds that go into the sports go through the CFF, and it's Karraas, Jr.'s job to make sure it goes to the right places.

Recently, Viktor has made sure that the Chromatik Football Federation does not have an official stance on the Foxchester Declaration, allowing for each football player to make their own choices in how they would respond without being told what to think. The players and owners love this move, and state that it's the latest proof that Viktor is very in sync with the needs of his charges.

"He (Viktor) is someone who really knows how to listen to his constituents," explains Sarai, "And he's done such a good job at supervising such a complex system. He could've held onto his power or tried to press it, and instead he's chosen to do what's best for the players and the managers. I want to learn to lead like that."

As he is the head of both football and gridiron in Chromatika, there is a chance that Sarai may meet him someday.

That wraps up the discussion on four of the role models that Sarai has had growing up, and really shows why Sarai is the way she is. Next up, we will discuss Sarai's two closest friends: Sara McAllister and Alessandra Mio.

---

Team   1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q   |  Tot
CU      6   0   6   0   |   12
FSU    14   3  10  10   |   37

1Q
13:21 FSU TD - Stan Devlin 23 yard pass from Sarai Gwenderyn (Sara McAllister Kick)
09:57 CU TD - Joe Johan 19 yard pass from Darian Lewis (2PT Attempt No Good)
03:30 FSU TD - Sarai Gwenderyn 49 yard run (Sara McAllister Kick)

2Q
05:48 FSU FG - Sara McAllister 51 yard Field Goal

3Q
11:27 CU TD - Jonathan Kimbrough 4 yard pass from Darian Lewis (2PT Attempt No Good)
06:18 FSU TD - Otto Mitchell 41 yard pass from Sarai Gwenderyn (Sara McAllister Kick)
01:30 FSU FG - Sara McAllister 38 yard Field Goal

4Q
14:33 FSU FG - Sara McAllister 51 yard Field Goal
05:21 FSU TD - Sarai Gwenderyn 13 yard run (Sara McAllister Kick)

FIREHAWKS' ROOST, FELSWYR, MOUNTAIN DISTRICT, CHROMATIKA - For a week, pundits claimed that Sarai Gwenderyn had returned to the field a week too early. They said that she had been carried by the defense, and that the Firehawks would have won the game even if Odden had been around. Perhaps a part of that was true - Gwenderyn did run not as often against the Skyhawks, and the Firehawks' defense had done most of the work. However, the Junior Quarterback took the comments to heart and put most of them to bed, scoring all four of the team's touchdowns - two of them on the ground - as Felswyr State finished the sweep of Cavsar University by the score of 37 to 12 at Firehawks' Roost.

Last season, Cavasr had shocked the Firehawks at Reborn from Ashes in what is coincidentally the most points that the Firehawks have given up in their history, a 28-35 defeat that really highlighted the struggles at home for the Firehawks. This time around, the players remembered and were adamant that it wouldn't repeat.

"That loss really put a damper on our title hopes," remembers Niles Gwivern, "And we were motivated this time to make sure it wouldn't happen again."

FSU started hot as Gwenderyn completed seven of eight throws in the opening drive, including the score to Kohnheadian receiver Stan Devlin; Cavsar almost immediately responded with a seventy-three yard drive that made home fans think that this may be a barnburner. The Firehawks were able to defend the two point conversion, and they led narrowly.

After stopping the Gladiators after they'd just crossed midfield, Gwenderyn put together a drive that showed just how healthy her ankle was. After completing a pair of checkdown passes to Niles Gwivern, she ran away from the blitz on third down to just pas midfield before calling a QB draw that caught Steve and Dimitri Venner off guard. The interior defensive linemen, who usually play very well for the Gladiators, were handled by Mikel Kingston and James Perry, and Gwenderyn was gone. She won a footrace against the Gladiators' defense for an electrifying forty-nine yard scamper.

Cavsar would score one more time in the second half as the Firehawks' defense would really step in, sacking Darian Lewis five times in the second half alone, leading to four three-and-outs, two turnovers and the margin of victory of twenty-five.

"It was the most complete game of the season we've had so far," admitted Gwenderyn afterwards, "We just had a few kinks to work out, but once we got going, we were good to go."

When asked about her ankle, her response was, "Mark (Benne) did a really good job, and Jonas (Odden) stepped in to get those wins. As you can see, I'm good to go. We need to keep winning, and I think I'm in the right shape to get that done."

Next up is Hoofstra, another team that handed FSU a loss back in Week 4. The Firehawks handed Sadeg State a loss in their return leg; no team has ever swept Felswyr State in the conference slate.

"We remember what happened last time," promises Naia Curentino, Offensive Coordinator, "We're ready to keep this momentum going."

Firehawks' Roost will be rocking.

---

CCGC Checkup: After Eight Games

The Vipers were leading after four weeks of play. Who are the leaders now?

Matchday 5
Lanar University 17–9 Staramara Technical University
Chromia Central College University 29–9 Sanar University
Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology 37–29 University of Myana

Matchday 6
Staramara Technical University 37–6 University of Myana
Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology 7–6 Sanar University
Chromia Central College University 23–7 Lanar University

Matchday 7
Chromia Central College University 27–48 Staramara Technical University
Lanar University 20–23 Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology
Sanar University 26–40 University of Myana

Matchday 8
Staramara Technical University 21–36 Sanar University
University of Myana 26–20 Lanar University
Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology 14–23 Chromia Central College University]

Chromatik Collegiate Gridiron Conference    Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 University of Myana                         8    5   3   255  186  +69
2 Chromia Central College University          8    5   3   185  208  −23
3 Sanar University                            8    4   4   169  194  −25
4 Staramara Technical University              8    4   4   224  189  +35
5 Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology             8    4   4   194  205  −11
6 Lanar University                            8    2   6   131  176  −45

Uh, anyone see this coming? With two games to go, it's anyone's game for the title game berth, as Myana drops two games in the last four and CCCU goes 3-1 to be in second place. Sanar University is still in contention with the help of Sammie Flynn, helped along by the parity in the league, while Staramara Technical and the Hellcats are where we thought they'd be. The odd man out is Lanar University in the middle of their rebuild.

Myana will play CCCU and ZIoT to close out the season, a hard slate; CCCU faces Myana and then Sanar, while Sanar plays Lanar then CCCU, Staramara Tech plays Z'ai'ai Institute then Lanar University, Z'ai'ai Institute plays Stamara and then Myana, and Lnar plays Sanar followed by Staramara Tech. On paper, CCCU should be ahead of Myana, unless the Vipers just take care of business like they have the personnel to, having scored the most number of points in the CCGC.

[Commonwealth of Baker Park]

Warriors to push to the end
By Aaron Hardison
UC Correspondent for The Sunday Times

The University of the Commonwealth head into their game against Green Coast University from Beaverriver at Gleason Field on the verge of clinching no worse than a tie for second place--or possibly the title--in the Celestia Conference with a win, and Head Coach Ryan Benton has stressed a focus on the immediate situation, not taking the Bullfrogs or the home field for granted.

"We've talked all week about respecting the opponent in front of you, showing clips every day of famous upsets of UC teams in history by massive underdogs that cost us championships in UAC play. Over 60 minutes on a given day, anyone can beat anyone else. I feel like we've grown up a lot so far this season in ways that we didn't last time (in NSCF play) and we can't afford to lose focus with two games left with everyone so close in the standings."

Salamantic University currently sit atop the standings on point difference over the Warriors, with Northern Moravica also at 5-3; the Cougars and Professors will face off in Herzegovina City while Loyola-Istria and Elephant Valley meet in an elimination game at the Lightning Yard; the overseas betting markets who listed over/under win totals for the Celestia are preparing to face a huge loss dependent on the results of the penultimate matchday.

Meanwhile, the Warrior non-conference slate is gaining strength, as Mara Sara stand at 7-1, Richardson at 5-3 and Green Mountain just a game behind the Governors in the Big 8 at 4-4; the final two opponents will visit Gleason Field if there is a silver lining in the schedule.

[Banija]

Horizon
MD9

This is real! This is me! This is Matchday 9 for you and me!

Horizon Conference
Felswyr State University (CMT) 41–0 Hoofstra University (KRD)
Cavsar University (DRK) 44–0 Anasb Central University (STR)
Sadeg State University (DRK) 40–23 Adirondack University (SAS)

Horizon Conference                 Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Sadeg State University            9    8   1   299  163 +136 - Horizon Conference Champions
2 Felswyr State University          9    7   2   219  134  +85
3 Hoofstra University               9    6   3   215  176  +39
4 Cavsar University                 9    4   5   260  246  +14
5 Anasb Central University          9    1   8   139  273 −134
6 Adirondack University             9    1   8   127  267 −140

*= Even if SSU loses Matchday 10 and FSU wins, Sadeg State still holds an overall +2 H2H point differential over FSU, giving them the tiebreaker and the conference title.

[Valanora]

"Alright, so who are we looking for outside of the Empire to come in and try to turn the team around next season? The Rockets were supposed to be title contenders this season and with two losses before the second Battle for the Royal Saber and an ugly looking out of conference also on the table, I think we all know that we are not going to be making the playoffs this season. It is a disappointing situation and a very bitter pill to swallow considering four seasons ago we thought by now that the team would be able to be competing for the NSCF title or at least be in the conversation, but the situation is what it is and the shrunken field and losses means that our season is all but over before conference play is even over. We can't just hang out heads though, we have to start working on fixing the problems for next season, which means recruiting. So who you got?"

The situation in the recruiting room for the Rockets of Raynor was one that was a bit glum, after the team was unable to pull out the victory against Trent State, being defeated in overtime in a game that they had to win in order to still have a chance at the conference title. Although the situation was gloomy, they had been in a similar situation before and were able to get the team back to where it needed to be the next season by finding the pieces that fit the system and with the potential to be at their position. It was their job as the scouting and recruiting team to make sure that there was never a true down year for the capital's most premier university, it needed to be a simple case of retool and replace with pieces as good or potential to be in a short time period.

"Well I think that Alexander Morris out of Ranoria is definitely worth a closer look, he fits a need for the team and brings some physicality to the defensive back corps that is going to be quite depleted of that sort of player with all the graduates in that group of players. He fits the academic profile as well, will easily pass the entrance exam. With Duke Beckett on the roster, he'd have a fellow Ranorian to help with the culture shock of coming into the Empire and could likely start in his first season if we need him to be. I also think that Kualu Luani and Leon Elliot out of University of Dietrich in Ranoria are also worth a second look. I know they are transfers and so we will not get the full four years out of them, but both will fit a need and could let us focus on developing their replacement for a year rather than throwing a freshman or inexperienced player into those key positions of quarterback and corner."

"If we're going to be open to transfers, which need I remind you is against the usual team policy, then I would put forward Lafi Jawo ahead of his Ranorian competition, as he fits the system for the Rockets far better with the cannon of an arm in our pass happy offense. I know there is some off the field issues as well as rumors about being too competitive or aggressive, but that is the sort of passion that you want to see from your leader under center I would say. While others will paint the competitiveness as a detriment, I definitely believe it instead to be an asset, why else would he be allowed to be the team captain for three seasons straight if he really was a disruptive presence in the locker room?"

"Being against team policy is exactly why instead why we should dismiss those options and instead focus on Fassil Einku out of the Hangaza Region in Banija. He is exactly what the team needs and I feel like we need to offer him a scholarship this moment, as he is a utility player that can play any of the defensive back positions and has both the size and speed to excel at any of the positions. We have a history of going into Banija and plucking out players and turning them into superstars, one only needs to look at how Jalen is now in the Olympics for Banija and was part of their World Bowl squad. Anyone coming out of Banija knows that if they sign with the Rockets that they will have a good chance of turning into a superstar and might even get considered for their national team. He needs to be our number one priority target and we need to move quickly before other teams realize what a talent he really is and beats us to the punch."

"I'll talk to Andy and see who he thinks is the best option, but all of you have definitely given us plenty to think about in the next few days and good options for the team to consider so that we might actually realize that dream of being a real NSCF contender in the next season or two. The work stared yesterday, even as the team gets ready to finish out their conference play. The game never tires, nor can we."

[Ranoria]

Buffalo Trample Mighty Eagles, Look to Clinch Big 8 Title (again) by Week 9

Cold Hill QB Austin Golden passed for 3 touchdowns against KCU to push his season tally to 14

We're gonna preface this by saying Kohnhead City's offensive line was a pain throughout this game. They consistently stifled a Buffalo defense that looks to key on the passer first and foremost, allowing just one sack on the night, and that was on a blitz from Victoria Mio, who's been racking herself up quite the statline these last few games, with four interceptions and the sack on Johannson. Running the ball wasn't an issue, and if their defense had been up to the task on Saturday in the Tundra, this may have been a very different ballgame.

The best running back in the conference got the rock early and often, and chugged along for just under a hundred yards by halftime. As solid a backer as Robert Lewan is, he just isn't on the level of a talent like Whitworth. The runner consistently dragged the 4 year starter a couple extra yards after contact, and we can't really fault the offense for how they performed in that first half, keeping it somewhat close at 14-21 with a Whitworth TD on their final posession of the half. However, the Buffalo have a very simple, if effective, strategy to force run-first teams into uncomfortable situations.

They throw the ball, and they throw it deep. The key to consistent scoring is to make explosive plays. That's what this offense is predicated on, and once they have a lead, their pass rushers can tee off.

Austin Golden did what he's been doing all season long, and managed to get Bo-Ah Jang in field goal range as the second half expired before capitalizing on the extra possession he'd get at halftime with a beautiful fade route touchdown to Nikolas Isaksen for the freshman's team-leading 6th of the season. Just like that, what had been a close game was becoming out of reach at 28-14.

Forced to throw, Emilee Johansson would have to take the reigns, but while her offensive line kept her upright, pressure was still ever-present. Candice Ferrett simply does not give up on plays, and Corrin Silva's reach means he's always a threat to get a hand on the ball. Mio and Tabor were blankets in coverage. All meshed together, it wasn't an ideal situation for a first year starter.

So on that first drive, after picking up a few first downs - including a 4th & 1 statement of a dive by Herman Whitworth - it was perhaps predictable that there'd be one wayward pass, and with a rangy veteran like Agnor Viridian back there, of course it was taken away. Unfortunately, Austin Golden wasn't so keen on keeping the ball in his hands, apparently. Rai Swift was unable to hang onto the pass after taking a hit from Zion Irving, who proceeded to reel in the stray ball in an impressive display of athleticism and contortion.

With the game starting to slip away, the Mighty Eagles mounted an aggressive drive and were able to score just before getting into the fourth quarter, even if a certain Prokopios Vortigern Rooijakkers blocking the PAT left a sour taste in their mouths. And ultimately, it just wouldn't matter - because Felix Hamilton was planning on taking it right back.

Cold Hill's wide receiver, who's been moved into a return specialist role this season, has scored twice on punt returns to this point, but had yet to take one in on a kickoff. Fortunately, that was about to change. He was able to cover an impressive 25 yards before having to make a move, cut outside to get the edge on the defenders, avoid a tackle just by a hair's breadth at the 30 yard line, and then it was all acceleration. No one even closed the distance on the freakshow on the return, and he tossed the ball in the air after the 101 yard return, his third overall on the season.

Down now 35-20, Kohnhead City went full desperation mode, letting three deep bombs rip early, all falling harmlessly to the ground, two courtesy of Koman Tabor and Victoria Mio, respectively. And on fourth down, well, we already mentioned Mio's sack. With the pass rush having been stifled throughout, defensive coordinator Daniel Booker brought the 6'8" corner right off the edge and she came unblocked. Johansson never saw her coming, and just as she was stepping back to get into her throw, Mio crumbled the freshman quarterback in her own end zone for a safety, and was clearly no worse for the wear after laying out the big hit, clapping her hands together above her head to signal the 2 point score.

Austin Golden was pulled at that point in favor of junior Pierre Truman and freshman Hannah Young, who each led one drive that ended in a field goal for Bo-Ah Jang - who's received much praise for how well she's kicked in the Tundra's oft-brutal weather - while Kohnhead City managed to tack one more on for pride.

With a dominant victory under their belt, the Buffalo will be traveling to Richardson in a game that gives them the opportunity to clinch the conference, while the Governors, after an electric showing against Green Mountain State, are clinging on for life and almost certainly one game out of being completely out of the playoff hunt.

Richard Steinheil's certainly been receiving criticism for the team's performance in the last couple seasons, and he'll be looking to lean on his defense - ranked 2^nd in the NSCF in points allowed - to carry the Governors to a statement victory that might at least give them a chance to make it into the playoffs.

[Quebec and Shingoryeo]

Celestia and Zephyr Conference - MD9 Cutoff!

Celestia Conference
University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park Warriors (CBP) 42–3 Green Coast University Bullfrogs (BVR)
University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder (BNJ) 23–13 Elephant Valley University Red Elephants (SNL)
Northern Moravica University Cougars (BNJ) 13–0 Salamantic Universities Professors (KOR)

P Celestia Conference                                          Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Northern Moravica University Cougars                           9    6   3   264  223  +41
2 University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park Warriors          9    6   3   270  223  +47
3 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder                       9    5   4   293  233  +60
4 Salamantic Universities Professors                             9    5   4   264  153 +111
5 Elephant Valley University Red Elephants                       9    4   5   173  182   −9
6 Green Coast University Bullfrogs                               9    1   8   102  352 −250

Zephyr Conference
Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists (NGD) 19–32 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns (AFT)
University of Mancodas Mammoths (PFA) 44–51 Trent State University Feathercaps (TJU)
Raynor University Rockets (VAL) 36–27 Mar Sara Tech Raiders (VAL)

P Zephyr Conference                                            Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Raynor University Rockets                                      9    7   2   249  184  +65
2 Mar Sara Tech Raiders                                          9    7   2   345  207 +138
3 Trent State University Feathercaps                             9    6   3   269  225  +44
4 University of Mancodas Mammoths                                9    3   6   279  250  +29
5 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns                                 9    3   6   184  327 −143
6 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists                   9    1   8   157  290 −133

[Drawkland]

Big Eight & Woodlands
MD9

nine times ...

BIG EIGHT
Richardson University (RAN) 9–23 Cold Hill University (RAN)
Green Mountain State (BUF) 34–17 Rajendragadh College (PRT)
Swisston City University (KND) 13–27 Kohnhead City University (KND)

  BIG EIGHT CONFERENCE                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Cold Hill University                  9    8   1   281  189  +92   Clinched Conference Championship
2 Kohnhead City University              9    6   3   294  195  +99
3 Richardson University                 9    5   4   213  153  +60
4 Green Mountain State                  9    5   4   225  240  −15
5 Swisston City University              9    3   6   256  252   +4
6 Rajendragadh College                  9    0   9   140  380 −240

WOODLANDS
Université du Saguenay (QUE) 25–21 Tchust Fhergys University (MAL)
Université St. Croix (QUE) 50–23 Atheburn National University (GRU)
New Lakeland University (CDG) 49–37 Brat Tech (CDG)

  WOODLANDS CONFERENCE                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 New Lakeland University               9    6   3   248  170  +78
2 Université St. Croix                  9    5   4   192  113  +79
3 Université du Saguenay                9    5   4   187  184   +3
4 Brat Tech                             9    5   4   246  194  +52
5 Atheburn National University          9    4   5   206  272  −66
6 Tchust Fhergys University             9    2   7   144  290 −146

[Ko-oren]

Early Window - Horizon
Hoofstra (KRD) vs Sadeg State (DRK)
Adirondack (SAS) vs Cavsar (DRK)
Anasb Central (STR) vs Felswyr State (CMT)

Only Felswyr can take the conference title away from Sadeg State - mathematically, at least. Felswyr need to beat 1-8 Anasb Central comfortably (which is very likely) but then need Sadeg State to lose by a lot, who in turn play 6-3 Hoofstra - that's our must watch game for the conference. Preparing for this week, Felswyr beat Hoofstra 41-0 (!!) helping their OSPI situation a lot, while Sadeg State won by 'just' 17 over 1-8 Adirondack. Cavsar highlighted the big difference between the top four and the bottom two by beating Anasb Central 44-0.

Middle Window - Zephyr & Celestia
Ceneisis Naval (AFT) vs Raynor (VAL)
Mar Sara Tech (VAL) vs Mancodas (PFA)
Trent State (TJU) vs Thereisnogodistan Community (NGD)

It's all still to play for in Zephyr, with Raynor and Mar Sara Tech both on 7-2, and Trent State behind them at 6-3. The final match day has three games, each involving exactly one (1) of the three contenders... a bit of an anticlimax, but it is what it is. Raynor visits 3-6 Ceneisis Naval, Mar Sara hosts 3-6 Mancodas, and Trent State hosts 1-8 Thereisnogodistan. Raynor clinches the conference title with a win. Arguably the best game of the conference (and the one that put Raynor in first for now) took place on the previous matchday, Raynor vs Mar Sara Tech, finishing 36-27.

Green Coast (BVR) vs Northern Moravica (BNJ)
Salamantic (KOR) vs Loyola-Istria (BNJ)
Elephant Valley (SNL) vs Commonwealth of Baker Park (CBP)

From the most complicated conference... to still an objectively hard to decide conference. Northern Moravica has righted the ship after a dramatic start of their NSCF season, and the Baker Parkians have quietly constructed a very good season as well - both are 6-3. Behind them are teams with significantly better point differentials, even if both are 5-4: Loyola-Istria and Salamantic. Fallen behind are the Elephant Valley Red Elephants, at 4-5, with no hope to win the conference - but they're still well within the playoff picture. All three remaining games are key battles, with the 1-8 Green Coast Bullfrogs hosting potential conference champions Northern Moravica - they have a very clear picture to a title. Then it's both 5-4 teams facing off in Ko-oren: Salamantic versus Loyola-Istria. The winner will take 3rd place, in the worst case, and the loser might just drop out of the NSCF playoff picture entirely. Lastly, it's Elephant Valley looking for revenge against the conference with one obstacle left on their schedule, the Commonwealth's Warriors.

What perfectly illustrates how the NSCF has looked in the second half of the season alone is that
- Loyola-Istria led the conference at 3-2 after five games -> dropped to fourth place and 3-3 the next week.
- Elephant Valley led the conference at 4-2 after six games -> dropped to fifth place and 4-3 the next week.
- Northern Moravica led the conference at 4-3 after seven games -> dropped to third place and 5-3 the next week despite a win.
- Salamantic led the conference at 5-3 after eight games -> dropped to fourth place and 5-4 the next week.

Four matchdays, four different conference leaders. Every team that was in first dropped to third, fourth, or even fifth place immediately afterwards. Northern Moravica are in first now... so you know what that means. And the team in second place isn't even among the previously mentioned conference leaders and, with a NMU loss, are in a great position to take first place. That's just the kind of conference we're in, apparently. Throw your Pythagoran Expectation out of the window for this one: the best point differentials are third and fourth as the Salamantic Universities threw their chances away by getting goose-egged by Northern Moravica 13-0 in round 9. This was the chance to get another purple championship... and instead, you're in fourth place hoping and praying that OSPI will be merciful in the non-conference games and you're begging the ones in charge of playoff voting to consider you.

Late Window - Big Eight & Woodlands
Cold Hill (RAN) vs Swisston City (KND)
Kohnhead City (KND) vs Green Mountain State (BUF)
Rajendragadh (PRT) vs Richardson (RAN)

Yeah, this one barely matters now. Cold Hill are Big Eight champions, who play Swisston who are firmly out of playoff contention. 6-3 Kohnhead City versus 5-4 Green Mountain State is pretty entertaining as we're charging down on the non-conference weeks, and the latter is 5-4 Richardson visiting 0-9 Rajendragadh, the only team on 0-10 watch.

Tchust Fhergys (MAL) vs New Lakeland (CDG)
St. Croix (QUE) vs Brattleboro Technical (CDG)
Atheburn National (GRU) vs Saguenay (QUE)

Woodlands are in a similar situation to Celestia: as far down as fifth place we find teams on 4-5. New Lakeland are the only 6-3 team and have the best outlook on a title, as they play 2-7 Tchust Fhergys - if they mess it up now, they never deserved this title to begin with. We have St. Croix and Brattleboro, both 5-4, chasing playoff chances... as are Atheburn (4-5) and Saguenay (5-4). What a way to close out the conference part of the NSCF season!

[Banija]

Cougars take a bite out of the Professors with 13-0 shutout win that put them on the brink of winning the NSCF's deepest conference


Chromatik Wide Receiver Mark Lett(#1) catches a Hail Mary touchdown on the final play of the first half in Week 9 against the Salamantic Universities

HERZEGOVINA CITY, MORAVICA- "This is the deepest football conference that I have ever seen." Coach Lance Kabuye said after Matchday 5, after Northern Moravica fell 27-12 to a then winless Green Coast University. Back then, this was one of the most balanced and equal conferences that had been seen in the NSCF. And that is still true today. After Week 5, a massive upset by Green Coast upended an already chaotic conference. There was a four way tie for first place, with four schools having a 3-2 record(Loyola-Istria, UC-Baker Park, the Salamantics, and Elephant Valley) with Northern one game behind them, at 2-3, and Green Coast one game behind them, at 1-4. IT was clear that anybody could win the conference, and that a team could win the conference with probably seven, or potentially even six wins.

But Northern Moravica used the low point of the season, that loss to Green Coast at home by two touchdowns, to change the outlook on their season. Lance Kabuye said that would be a turning point for them at the time. "2-3 at this point is not the standard we hold ourselves to, no matter how deep this conference is." Kabuye told reporters at the time. "We'll see how tough this team really is. We consider ourselves to be one of the best teams in this conference, in this league, but our record doesn't reflect it. We're going to take games to our opponents from here on out. Change of attitude- in the locker room, in the film room, in the weight room, on the practice- and that will transfer to the field. You will see Northern rise again."

And from that point, the offense was high-flying. After managing just 12 points at home against Green Coast, the last three weeks, before we played the Salamantics, the offense was on fire. 40 points on the road at the Istria Lightning Yard against Loyola-Istria, in a win. 53 points at home against UC-Baker Park in a 36 point blowout at home, a massive rivalry win. And then, of course, scoring 35 against Elephant Valley University, also on the road. Elite quarterback play from Wagner-Young, with the pass setting up the run by Apollo Esther, and the offense just being unstoppable.

Even look at Wagner-Young's 7 yard TD run in South Newlandia. Scrambling away from pressure, and a brilliant spin move at the three yard line on a third and goal, to leave Qusmi freshman linebacker Sylax-Kresp Den grabbing at nothing but air as he spun into the end zone standing up. He's playing at another level right now, showing why he was recruited at #1 overall out of Ranoria, and why he chased Mokti Dikot to transfer out of the NSCF and to domestic college football.

But this game against the Salamantics was different. Yet another rivalry game. A team that was going to make you grind it out. No five touchdown performances against the Professors. It was as you'd expect- a smashmouth, physical game. But Northern Moravica was able to go old school and win this one too. This game, in a way, said more about Northern than their previous 3 wins. They had shown that they could win games off the back of their QB, of their offense. But getting down and dirty? Winning with their defense? Now that they can do that as well, there is strong reason why they are considered the favorites to clinch the Celestia in Beaverriver in Week 10.

Week 9

Let's go through this game against the Salamantic Universities. The opening play from scrimmage showed how this game would be. Professors linebacker Ryoko Yashima absolutely lighting up Apollo Esther on the first play from scrimmage, getting a massive hit in. The Professors were not scared of Northern's 42+ PPG scoring average in our three game winning streak. Their defense was going to do what Ko-orenite defenses do- attack, smother, blanket, and confuse the hell out of our offense.

Fortunately, our defense was up for the task as well. Vanorian outside linebacker Ailo Børve, in particular, was getting to the quarterback with consistency. Northern established a ridiculous 9 sacks on the game, included in 20 QB hits. It wasn't mostly pressure with four- but the creativity in the blitz packages allowed NMU to consistently get in the backfield, and wreak havoc all game long. Urk McCauley was an unstoppable force among the defensive line, with the Quebecois DT eating up blockers to give guys like Børve and Samuel Kim straight paths to the quarterback. That was a big deal in forcing three turnovers on defense(two interceptions and a fumble).

Northern's first(and only) turnover came with 12 minutes to go in the 2nd quarter. Wagner-Young was looking for Jung Singateh, the senior wide receiver. Pressure from Aoromei Aosel, however, meant the ball wobbled out as he threw it. The ball went right to Nanko Bruinink, who returned it to the Northern 35 yard line. The Salamantics could barely move the ball after that, however, they lined up for a 50 yard field goal looking for three points. Fortunately for the Cougars, their special teams stepped up, as Urk McCauley got penetration up the middle and got his hands up, blocking the field goal and sending the crowd at Mugisha II Memorial into raptures.

The game's only touchdown would occur at the end of the first half. We had a 3rd and 8 with 10 seconds left from our own 42 yard line. A corner route to Jung Singateh was snagged by the senior, as he dragged his toe on the sideline at the Professors 47 yard line. 3 seconds left in the half. A Hail Mary- why not? Wagner-Young had the arm. The Professors brought four, trying their best to get pressure as the receivers got downfield. Wagner-Young was able to step up to avoid the pressure, and heave one towards the right corner of the end zone.

Somehow, the transfer wide receiver, the 6'4 Mark Lett, was lost by the Professors defense. He got in behind the safeties, who had lined up right in front of the goal line. The ball lofted straight into his arms, and he caught it as he was tackled. The referees threw their arms in the air as the crowd celebrated, and Wagner-Young sprinted down the field to celebrate with his Chromatik teammate. We kicked the extra point, and then it was 7-0 going into halftime.

The second half was a defensive clinic put on by Chike Halim's unit. We forced all three turnovers in the second half, scoring six points off of them. On 3rd down on the first series of the second half, a blitzing Ailo Børve got a strip sack, which was recovered by Urk McCauley at the Professors 17 yard line. One 27 yard field goal later, we were up 10-0. And then, the very next drive. Pressure by Samuel Kim forced an early throw, which was intercepted by Edrissa Coulibaly jumping a curl route. He returned the ball to the Professors 25 yard line, which eventually led to a 25 yard field goal for NMU. 6 points off of turnovers, 13-0 lead with 10 minutes left in the third.

And that was it for the game's scoring. The two teams largely traded punts for the rest of the game. The Professors only crossed midfield once for the rest of the game, on their final drive, but their QB Dagunak Juldhauthaunden forced a throw to the back of the end zone on second down in the red zone, that was intercepted by Kalactanian strong safety Sean Gonzalez with about four minutes left, who kneeled down for a touchback.

From that point, the Professors would never get the ball back. 8 more running plays for the Cougars after that, all carries by Apollo Esther. The Professors, demoralized by the turnover, were worn down. 8 carries for 53 yards on the final drive by Esther, punishing his opponents and icing the game, to get Wagner-Young into the victory formation. And when Wagner-Young took the final kneeldown, Cougars fans celebrated and the fireworks went off.

Celestia Outlook

What does that mean for their outlook in the Celestia Conference? IT means that Northern Moravica are now winners of four games in a row, going undefeated so far in the second half of the conference slate. And not only that- they've beaten all four of the other contenders for the conference title. They are currently in a two-way tie with UC-Baker Park for first place, but thanks to our blowout win over them, we hold the first tiebreaker.

So this means, more than anything, that Northern Moravica controls their own destiny heading into the final week of the conference slate. They will be favored over Green Coast University, on the road, considering their form over the past few weeks, to get the win and win the conference. If they beat Green Coast by any score, they will be become Celestia Conference champions for a record seventh conference title.

The chase for 7 drives this team. "Look, that is what this school does, it's why we are the class of the Banijan schools." Wagner-Young told reporters. "We consistently win this conference. This conference was ridiculous this year. The Salamantics? UC-Baker Park being added? Elephant Valley wrecking everyone? And yet, it is like destiny for NMU- the dust is settling, and only we find ourselves in control of our own destiny ahead of Week 10."

Of course, it is not as simple as it may seem, beating a 1-8 team to win the conference. For one, Green Coast's one win is against Northern Moravica at Mugisha II Memorial- and it wasn't a particularly close game either. Northern did not manage a touchdown against them as Green Coast dominated the second half, earning a 27-12 win that was fully deserved.

"On that day, there was no doubt about who the better team was." Samuel Kim, the defensive captain, told reporters. "But I like to think of the second half of the conference slate, for us, as our redemption tour. We started 2-3, but we can do better than that. We lost to the Salamantics the first time out, and we beat them in the rematch. We lost to UC-Baker Park the first time out, and we beat them as well. We had already beaten Loyola-Istria and Elephant Valley, and then we beat both again. Green Coast is the last one. The only team this year that we haven't beaten."

A lot will have to change for Northern, especially on offense, if they don't want to repeat that. And there will be plenty of energy in Beaverriver. It's been an otherwise forgettable first season in the NSCF for Green Coast, a rude awakening. But a chance to spoil NMU's season, and greatly put their playoff hopes in peril, by sweeping them? It would surely be a dream come true for Bullfrogs fans. But make no doubt about it- considering where NMU was 5 weeks ago, this is indeed great progress. And it will be legendary if they can win the conference on Saturday night. But if they lose- it will be seen as a chokejob. Can they get the job done on the road in Week 10?

Loyola-Istria's Outlook

We've talked a lot about NMU's outlook, and deservingly so- they're in first place, and in pole position to win the Celestia Conference. They've basically had to go perfect in the second half of the season to have a shot, and that is exactly what they have done, having gone 4-0 since Week 5. But the Blue Thunder, on the other hand, are in a much different spot.

5-4 and find themselves in third place, but on the outside looking in for the conference title race. Wins in the second half of the year against Green Coast and Elephant Valley, offset by losses to Northern Moravica(again) and a tight road loss to UC-Baker Park, see them in a not so great spot. And as they sit as underdogs for their Week 10 visit to the Salamantic Universities, there is a strong chance that this team finishes conference play sitting at just .500, making the goal of an at-large playoff berth for the three time NSCF champions seem quite unlikely.

The pressure is building on Alanso Isa. His saving grace, of course, is the brutality of the conference. Blue Thunder fans are not dumb- they understand that this is the deepest conference the NSCF has maybe had in a number of years, with truly everybody capable of beating everybody. And with a brutal non-conference slate to follow, the pressure is on. But look at this comparsion between NMU and Loyola-Istria.

NMU's got four rivals- Loyola-Istria, the Salamantics, UC-Baker Park, and Vietussia Academy(former). They've won their most recent games against all four of those rivals.

Loyola's rivals- Richardson, Northern Moravica, Felswyr, the Salamantics- Lost 2 in a row to Richardson. As for NMU, they've lost 3 in a row and 6 of their last 7,including 4 in a row at home. 0-3 all-time against Felswyr, including 2 in a row at home, which includes a playoff game. The Salamantics, fortunately, the Blue Thunder have won 3 in a row, although they are underdogs.

Look at that comparison. NMU's four rivals, NMU has won the most recent game against all of them. Loyola has losing streaks against three of their rivals, and are serious underdogs(+4.5) against the fourth. Combine that with the three NSCF titles setting an extremely high bar, and sitting near .500, there is serious pressure on the head coach.

And this is a crazy sport. NMU's success against their rivals makes this even more aggravating for Loyola fans. Loyola's early NSCF success almost certainly is what got Horace Browning fired as head coach, more than anything. Could NMU success do the same thing to Alanso Isa?

This is college football. Can't compare it to the pros, or any other sport. This sport, more than any, consistently losing to your rivals will get you fired. That's simply how it is. Those games simply matter more. If you're the head coach at Loyola and you can't beat Richardson, NMU, or Felswyr? That's an issue. Fortunately, they've got games remaining against all those schools besides NMU, so plenty of time to turn that around. But if they lose to the Salamantics, and then the streaks continue against FSU and Richardson? Let's just say that if I'm Alanso Isa, I wouldn't want to turn on talk radio- or check out those internet message boards- for a long while.

[PotatoFarmers]

Disappointing loss to Atheists and Feathercaps mean Mammoths will finish in bottom half on first outing in Zephyr
Reported by Sporting Daily
Mancodas - The University of Mancodas gridiron team confirms their spot in the bottom half, following the 7 point defeat to Trent State University's Feathercaps at home in Matchday 9.

It was much less of a surprise following their shock defeat to the Atheists from Thereisnogodistan Community College last week, but it ultimately showed that the Mammoths have much to work on for the remaining of the season following the defeat. With a game at Mar Sara Tech Raiders left on the conference schedule, it is likely Poafmersia will remain in 4th place regardless of that result, baring a surprise victory by the Engsigns. The Mammoths, however, would look to showcase who is deserving of their starting spot over the next 4 matches, including 3 out-of-conference fixtures, and the game in Valanora.

The Sporting Daily also made its rounds at the various other leagues, looking at the title races yet to be decided on the final day.

Horizon Conference                 Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Sadeg State University            9    8   1   299  163 +136 - Horizon Conference Champions
2 Felswyr State University          9    7   2   219  134  +85
3 Hoofstra University               9    6   3   215  176  +39
4 Cavsar University                 9    4   5   260  246  +14
5 Anasb Central University          9    1   8   139  273 −134
6 Adirondack University             9    1   8   127  267 −140

Defending champions Sadeg State University continues to keep their title following their 40-23 win over Adriondack University of South Americanastan, with a superior head-to-head record over Chromatika's Felswyr State University. The remaining sides, however, would be looking at producing results enough to gain entries into the playoffs by special criteria, as well as entry into any of the additional bowls put up for this cycle.

  BIG EIGHT CONFERENCE                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Cold Hill University                  9    8   1   281  189  +92  - Big Eight Conference Champions
2 Kohnhead City University              9    6   3   294  195  +99
3 Richardson University                 9    5   4   213  153  +60
4 Green Mountain State                  9    5   4   225  240  −15
5 Swisston City University              9    3   6   256  252   +4
6 Rajendragadh College                  9    0   9   140  380 −240

It will be similar in the Big Eight Conference, where Ranoria's Cold Hill University keeps the title after much dominance over the past season.

P Zephyr Conference                                            Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Raynor University Rockets                                      9    7   2   249  184  +65
2 Mar Sara Tech Raiders                                          9    7   2   345  207 +138
3 Trent State University Feathercaps                             9    6   3   269  225  +44
4 University of Mancodas Mammoths                                9    3   6   279  250  +29
5 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns                                 9    3   6   184  327 −143
6 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists                   9    1   8   157  290 −133

In our very own Zephyr Conference, Raynor University Rockets hold the distinct advantage following their 9 point victory over Mar Sara Tech Raiders in MD9. The 9 point victory translates to a +6 points Head-to-head advantage, which could prove useful. Raynor University Rockets travel to Abanhfleft to play Ceneisis Naval Academy Engsigns, with the Rockets winning 16–7 in the reverse. They will mark a successful title defence with a win in Abanhfleft. TJUN-ia's Trent State University is unable to fight for the title, given that they have an inferior head-to-head against both the Rockets and the Raiders.

  WOODLANDS CONFERENCE                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 New Lakeland University               9    6   3   248  170  +78
2 Université St. Croix                  9    5   4   192  113  +79
3 Université du Saguenay                9    5   4   187  184   +3
4 Brat Tech                             9    5   4   246  194  +52
5 Atheburn National University          9    4   5   206  272  −66
6 Tchust Fhergys University             9    2   7   144  290 −146

Cassadaigua's New Lakeland University looks likely to be able to defend their title, with a trip to Malandrin's Tchust Fhergys University Blue Wolves left in their schedule. The other university from Cassadaigua, Brattleboro Technical Institute Brats, will host Quebec and Shingoryeo's Université St. Croix Bleu et Blanc, while Université du Saguenay Fighting Irish will be in The Grearish Union to play Atheburn National University's Ravens. It looks to be the Tycoons' title to lose, based on the fixtures. Of course, given the complicatedness of the resulting mess, we will leave it to those teams who have a horse in the conference title race to sort it out themselves.

P Celestia Conference                                          Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Northern Moravica University Cougars                           9    6   3   264  223  +41
2 University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park Warriors          9    6   3   270  223  +47
3 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder                       9    5   4   293  233  +60
4 Salamantic Universities Professors                             9    5   4   264  153 +111
5 Elephant Valley University Red Elephants                       9    4   5   173  182   −9
6 Green Coast University Bullfrogs                               9    1   8   102  352 −250

Having the head-to-head advantage, Banija's Northern Moravica University travels to Beaverriver with nothing to be afraid of. A win there will let them keep the title, which, on paper, should look easy. The Warriors travel to South Newlandia to play the Red Elephants - which doesn't look as simple either. However, should both the Cougars and the Warriors not win their fixture, it could be trouble, as one of the Blue Thunder and the Professors will move to 6 wins, given that both teams will play each other in the other fixture.

All 5 conference defending champions look set to keep their title. But the playoffs is yet to come. While the College Sports team is unfamiliar with the calculation of the OSPI and the playoff format, they promise that something will come up over the next few weeks to give this group of fans something to look forward to.

[TJUN-ia]

After upsetting the Rockets at home in Overtime, the Trent State Feathercaps may be out of the Zephyr Conference picture, but don't tell that to the TSU faithful. Johnny Bridgeford has certainly shown class in keeping his team going despite the setbacks, but he still had a job to do in closing out his 2nd season in style. That process would kick off in Mancodas tonight as the MancodasTown Sports Complex saw the Feathercaps and the Mammoths duke it out it what would turn out to be a 94-point barn burner of a game!

BOX
Q1
MU TD - Bain 12yd to Schubert (Joyce Conversion)
MU Saftey
TSU TD - Baldwin 23yd to Whitehorse (McGee Conversion)
TSU Saftey

Q2
MU TD - Bain 2yd run (Joyce Conversion)
TSU TD - Hawthorn 86yd Kick Return (McGee Conversion)
MU TD - Bain 23yd to Kováts (Joyce Conversion)
TSU TD - Baldwin 10yd to Que-et-Vous (McGee Conversion)

Q3
MU TD - Berger 97yd Kick Return
TSU TD - Richmond 99yd Punt Return (McGee Conversion)
TSU TD - Farron 56yd INT (McGee Conversion)
MU TD - Bain 2yd Run (Joyce Conversion)
MU TD - Bain 13yd Run (Joyce Conversion)

Q4
TSU TD - Baldwin 3yd run (McGee Conversion)
TSU TD - Baldwin 13yd to Jackson (McGee Conversion)

As you can see, this game featured everything a goma of Gridiron could throw at you: Passing TDs, Running TDs, Sfateys, Kick Returns, Punt Returns, Pick Sixes, you name it! Both teams deserved to win considering how much both were going for it here tonight but in the end, the visiting Caps ended up the victors by only a TD. Our final Conference game at home against the TCC Athiests will kick off a 3-game home stretch that will attempt to bring us as close as possible to a potential Playoff spot. WE ARE! TRENT STATE!

---

SCHEDULE (ZEPHYR Conference + 3 Non-Conf)
Week 1: vs Ceneisis Naval Academy (AFT) W 47-17 (1-0)
Week 2: vs Mar Sara Tech (VAL) W 40-20 (2-0)
Week 3: @Raynor U (VAL) L 33-13 (2-1)
Week 4: vs Mancodas (PFA) W 37-13 (3-1)
Week 5: @TCC (NGD) W 24-15 (4-1)
Week 6: @Ceneisis Naval Academy (AFT) L 31-31 (37-31 OT) (4-2)
Week 7: @Mar Sara Tech (VAL) L 6-32 (4-3)
Week 8: vs Raynor U (VAL) W 13-13 (20-13 OT) (5-3)
Week 9: @Mancodas (PFA) [W 51-44 (6-3)
Week 10: vs TCC (NGD)
---------------------Non-Conference---------------------
Week 11: vs Elephant Valley (SNL)
Week 12: vs Cold Hill (RAN)
Week 13: @Swisston City (KND)

[Kohnhead]

Top 10 Kohnheadian Recruits #5-1

Now we will be going over the top five Kohnheadian High School recruits that KSPN has ranked as the class of 24.


5. WR Blake Joyner
The top receiver recruit in the nation is Blake Joyner who dominated for Parga Prep last season getting over 1500 yards and 12 touchdowns through the air as the classic boundary #1 receiver. Joyner has the talent on the build on the outside but there are questions about his workrate and character having been detained by the police on numerous occasions and got himself suspended for the National quarterfinals last season where his team was dominated by Hillside Prep. Joyner has good speed, is good at contested catches although he does have some drops and can start as a freshman pretty much anywhere. If you can fix some of his drops and figure out a way to make him behave he can emerge as one of college football's top receivers.

4. OT Alexis Coleman
As per usual we have a tackle high on the list here in Alexis Coleman who was the starting left tackle for Winchester High last season and was clearly the best pass protector in High School. She has good hands and is very powerful making a bull rush almost impossible and a large frame that really limits the speed rush. So overall she is deadly in pass protection even if she gets called for too many flags, her real downsides come in run blocking which she if anything has gotten worse at over her four years in High School.

3. RB Jayce Barlow
Kohnhead has proved time and time again that it is a factory for the offensive line and for running backs with Jayce Barlow out of Hillside Prep following the legacy of Herman Whitworth, Elliot Roach, and Ty Gardener who were all top three in the rankings and the top two are already on the National Team. Barlow is undersized at the position but he plays with so much heart that you'd think he was 250 pounds with the way he barrels into defenders. He is not afraid of contact despite being just 5' 9 and 213 pounds yet he also has the explosiveness you'd think with a frame like that. Obviously college defenders will be a different breed entirely and will make trucking them difficult but I wouldn't bet against Barlow. The downside on Barlow is that he struggles in pass protection and despite his style cannot contribute in the passing game due to the fact that he cannot catch to save his life.

2. CB Autumn Bates
*Committed to Swisston City University
Out of Swisston High, Bates has decided to stay local and go play for the Army Knives next season and will probably be able to replace Rachel Gordon as their top corner who shadows the #1 receiver. Bates is best in man coverage as she primarily just shuts down opposing receivers every matchup and while she doesn't generate many interceptions that can be attributed to opposing quarterbacks being scared of throwing to her. Bates also has struggled a bit with tackles but that shouldn't be too much of an issue.

1. Athlete Colby Nolan
Colby Nolan was the best player in Kohnhead High School Football last season... on both sides of the ball. Nolan didn't receive much publicity until his junior season in particular a matchup between his lesser known Amrian High School and the legendary Hillside Prep where he had two interceptions, seven tackles, record 179 all purpose yards, and played ten snaps in the wildcat throwing two passes both of which were completions. Offensively he lines up at receiver or at half back but also loves running the wildcat because he can pass the ball decently well for a non-qb. Defensively he lines up at corner but can also play as an undersized linebacker, he has said that he would love to play every minute of the game as an ironman but understands that some schools might not want that and it will not effect his decision.

[South Newlandia]

Unsurprisingly, EVU is out of the playoff picture – surprisingly, it’s already week 9

Blue Thunder  3  3  10  7   23
Elephants     0  6   7  0   13

1Q: ULI 23 yd FG (Kabbah) 3-0
2Q: EVU 1 yd TD (Wyt; kick failed) 3-6
2Q: ULI 49 yd FG (Kabbah) 6-6
3Q: ULI 8 yd TD (Hairte -> Secka) 13-6
3Q: EVU 83 yd punt return TD (Lawson) 13-13
3Q: ULI 32 yd FG (Kabbah) 16-13
4Q: ULI 4 yd TD (Hairte -> Senghore) 23-13

What’s next for Elephant Valley? After three consecutive losses to top schools, the Red Elephants are 4-5, with one last home game on the season, with the Baker Park’ Warriors making the trip. Nothing is on the line for the Red Elephants anymore, but the Warriors are still playing for the Celestia title (they sure wish they had that game from week 5 now). Regardless, the fans will be there. The support has been great for this team, even though they have lost their previous two at home. Sure, it may have been amplified by having the smallest stadium in NSCF, but still – the Red Elephants have gained lots of backing not only in football-circles. Herron, the young freshman QB coming out of nowhere to lead the team to wins over behemoths, Lawson, who will literally run you over, and Jackson, the freshman kicker who just can’t seem to miss – this team has so many young players that are just a joy to watch. That makes us wonder – what will it be in NSCF 25?

According to most experts and officials, the Red Elephants are a lock to return for the next season. The team has found success, support, and great young players – they won’t slow down that easily.

Of course, it’s interesting to look at how the squad may look for next season, to check out which players are graduating, and which will stick around. Fortunately for the Red Elephants, few key players will play their last season – notable seniors include Wyt, the fullback from Qusmo; Kim (Chromatika) and Tonumaipe'a (Tikariot), Tight Ends; Foster, the teams’ Delaclav Right Guard, and Grey Jr, the Strong Safety (also Chromatika). Even then, the team has interesting backups at those positions – Toleafoa, the Tikariotian sophomore, can step up in place of Wyt; Nissen, the Delaclav freshman, is primed and ready at TE, Tucker, one of the rare South Newlandian prospects, can step in at Guard, and Cox, their Hannasean freshman, should be a good fit at strong safety. All in all, it’s clear that the Red Elephants will compete next season with a team one year richer in experience, with mostly the same key players, and a chance to bring in even more interesting freshmen on top of that. There’s no reason to believe the Red Elephants of next season can’t compete with this one’s.

Now, let’s think about the Conference situation for next year. Obviously, the Blue Thunder, the Cougars, and the Salamantics will be back, there’s no question about that. Green Coast are a more interesting story. Beaverriver, the other Esportivan nation in this conference, is going to play in lots of other sports soon – usually a good sign for a sporting nation to stay around. Additionally, this isn’t their first season, and it seems to us like they were able to correctly interpret their results as “lmao get Celestia’d”, and not be too deterred to sign back up again. The most interesting case are the Warriors. The reigning Warrior’s champs came over from Mineral after that dissolved, and whether they will remain in Celestia? Only time will tell. If we remain at five conferences, the odds are pretty good, but then again, if there’s six or more, they won’t be back. There’s no way to be sure. Regardless, Celestia will (hopefully) remain mostly the same – a bloodbath, that is.

South Newlandian high school recruits:

South Newlandian football, and especially high school play, is still in its infancy. Combine that with the fact that South Newlandia is, by international standards, a miniscule nation, and you won’t find many good prospects. Nevertheless, here are three recruits that might be worth some bored scouts’ time.

3. P: Alicia Woodbrough
Alicia used to play the other kind of football as a kid, but eventually switched over to this kind of football, and showed to be talented at punting. She is pretty solid at kicking the ball deep, not too bad at placing the ball near the sideline, but she especially shines at trick-plays, which her coach enjoyed running at her high school – she can fool a special team unit, and managed to dupe them into giving up big plays multiple times. Of course, South Newlandian high school football and the big stage of NSCF are completely different things, and it’s more than questionable if her skills can translate there. She has solid grades, is known as a great teammate, and takes a particular interest in education, and is likely to go down that field. If any team is looking for a backup punter that won’t cause any problems, Woodbrough could be an option.

2. TE: Dustin van Halfensen
Van Halfensen is a big guy, especially for a South Newlandian, and he’s going to make his presence felt. He’s a great blocker, but that’s what he excels in. His hands are questionable at best, route running pretty much non-existent, but he’s reasonably fast if he gets the ball, and hard to bring down. A capable coach could teach him how to actually get catches, or he could attempt to turn him into a lineman of some sorts, but van Halfensen can be a physical asset for a football team. His grades are good, and he’s planning to go into business later in life, something that is hard to do in South Newlandia, so he’d love to play somewhere abroad and study something related to that field. Van Halfensen is a risky player, but he could turn out well under the right coach.

3. RB: Thomas Fantikos
Fantikos is the only South Newlandian high school graduate that could be seen as a potential everday starter for a decent NSCF team. He’s not big for a running back, but makes it work with his quick feet and general elusiveness, allowing him to break tackles and move the ball. He’s also good at holding on to the ball, and he’s very fast overall, so he could even be used as a returner on special teams, but his skills at catching are lacking. He can catch the odd checkdown, but he’s not really a receiving threat at all, and a coach would have to work on that with him. Fantikos is also received praise for being great at keeping morale up on his team. He wants to eventually become a lawyer later in life if football doesn’t work out for him, so he’d look to study that. His grades are good, and what team doesn’t need some more options to move the ball? Fantikos, if everything works out, could be a star. It’s not likely, but the chance is there.

[Buffalostan]

Week 9

      1   2   3   4   F
RAJ   6   0   3   8  17
GMS   3   7  14  10  34
BOX                                                              RAJ  GMS
  1 K1 38 yard field goal                                          3    0
    Callum Ryan 34 yard field goal                                 3    3
    K1 20 yard field goal                                          6    3
  2 Cash West 10 yard pass from Josh Moore (Callum Ryan kick)      6   10
  3 Gwindell Gordon 1 yard run (Callum Ryan kick)                  6   17
    K1 20 yard field goal                                          9   17
    Todd Cayson 50 yard pass from Josh Moore (Callum Ryan kick)    9   24
  4 WR3 19 yard pass from QB1 (RB1 run)                           17   24
    Todd Cayson 50 yard pass from Josh Moore (Callum Ryan kick)   17   31
    Madison Hill 22 yard field goal                               17   34

Awards watchlist

As we approach the end of the college handegg season, it’s time to start thinking about awards. Fair to say that Green Mountain State, still needing a win to keep a winning record and currently 4th in their conference, won’t be putting up any names for the big headline-grabbers like MVP and Offensive MVP. But amid the vast array of awards, are there any that might fit nicely into the Parastratiosphecomyia Stratiosphecomyioides trophy cabinet?

Offense: Fair Play Award – Triston Goff

Center Triston Goff has been among the most sporting players all season. Offensive linemen have a reputation for playing dirty in defense of their quarterbacks, but not Goff, who has made sure to very sportingly step aside and allow pass rushers an unmolested pass straight to Josh Moore’s knees. Almost every game features footage of him being careful not to get a defensive tackle’s uniform grubby by so much as touching him, instead quickly falling to the ground and allowing said rusher to tear into the backfield. What a lovely young man! Guards Owen Hickman and Zavier Christensen would all be worthy contenders on the shortlist, too.

Defense: Piranha Award – Kincade Hinton

Hinton bites, hard. He bites on every ball thrown his way in fact, which is why in just two weeks he racked up key pick-sixes – and why in every week since he’s uniformly given up massive yards. He doesn’t seem to have any ability to actually read the receivers he’s covering, but if the ball does somehow end up vaguely near him, he has good hands and lightning speed. It’s completely all or nothing: he’s not even third in the team in passes defended.

Special Teams: Breakthrough Award – Madison Hill

Madison Hill’s achievements this season, namely kicking one short field goal, haven’t been all that special. Cynics would point to female placekickers who’ve been regular starters or even stars – and then further, to women playing, and excelling at, contact positions. This is where we play it’s 1999 card: in context, Hill is something of a trailblazer. It’s just unfortunate that time travel makes her achievement much less impressive in relative terms, which probably also explains why no one seemed to raise an eyebrow at our fielding a literal dinosaur in our World Bowl team.

[Valanora]

Defiance. That was the word of the day on the Raynor University campus leading up to the primetime matchup against their domestic rivals of the Raiders of Mar Sara Tech. Many on campus believed that the Rockets chance at the conference title had come and went thanks to the overtime loss against Trent State, with many fans of already thinking about next year with this season thought to have been a lost cause. However the student body and most importantly the team still believed that they could come back from that pitfall and beat Mar Sara Tech, and beat them by enough to earn the tiebreaker in the head to head point differential that going to be the tiebreaker should the Rockets be able to pull off the upset against one of, if not the best team in all of the NSCF this season. The Raiders were flying high and on a course that was likely to put them as the most prolific offense in the NSCF, which would make it the second straight season where a Vanorian school held that honor, after the Rockets were nearly impossible to stop during conference play last season and racked up an insane amount of points.

To say that the atmosphere within Vahalla Falls was electric as the hours and minutes ticked down until the opening kickoff would be the understatement of the century, as the Battle for the Royal Saber had title conference implications on the line and perhaps even playoff implications for the loser of the game. Everyone in the NSCF knew that the battle for spots in the truncated field was going to be quite tight and the difficulty in the out of conference that both teams put upon their schedule meant that each was likely going to suffer at least one loss if not two during the out of conference, likely eliminating them from playoff positioning with all the chaos that was churning throughout the NSCF field this season. A dominating win by the home team would put the Rockets right back on course for a conference title and playoff push, while a loss likely meant that the playoffs were to be out of their reach for the Rockets. The Raiders in the eyes of those inside the Empire had more wiggle room, with impressive victories throughout the season and their only loss was away, early in the season, having gotten significantly better through the season. That thought made the experts in the Empire think the Raiders could more likely afford the loss than the Rockets but both were in jeopardy depending on the out of conference results.

As has often been the case this season, Arquímedes Concepción looked poised and calm under pressure and seemed to completely drown out the deafening crowd noise from a sold out Vahalla Falls, easily operating the Raiders on their opening drive to a score, although freshman kicker Bernard Stokke continued to show inconsistency and missed the extra point, an all too common event for the freshman. However the Rockets had their own experienced leader under center to lead the troops and that was exactly what Håkon Schau did, six plays and eighty yards down the field as he connected with Toshi Sánchez for the score. The Rockets defense stepped up and held the MVP candidate and the Raider offense to a three and out before Oscar Apolo took the ensuing punt back sixty-two yards for a score, continuing the tradition of Banijan speedsters being special team demons for the Rockets. Arquímedes was not about to let the rivals get the best of them that easily and coordinated a response drive that took ten minutes and drove eighty-two yards down the field before Conrad Espe dove into the endzone on a fullback with thirty seconds left in the half. That turned out to be too much time left on the close as Schua hit Demetrius St. Pierre on an out route that took the home side to midfield before Duke Beckett was hit on a drag route and was able to score thanks to some key blocking downfield by the receivers, giving the Rockets the lead as the half expired, with Beckett then diving in for a two point conversion as Andy Magnusson made the unorthodox call to go for two.

The Rockets started in possession in the second half and Schua hit Apolo on a post that the Banijan took down to the fifteen yard line before an ankle tackle by the safety kept the speedy slot receiver from scoring. Two plays later however and Schua hit Eirik Iqbal on a drag route and the tight end was able to battle himself across the line for a quick score. However as earlier, despite being down two scores, the Raiders were not going to give up or give in to their rivals, and a methodical drive kept the talented Rockets offense off the field and cooling them off, while the Raiders kept driving. Kawsu Gaye would get the score as he took a reverse around and dove into the endzone before Elias Nevland could wrap him up. The Rockets were able to get two first downs before their drive halted and they were forced to punt, but Sander Remøy was able to down the punt at the four yard line. Big Colin Morris then showed his potential on a strip sack in the endzone that Jon Martinsen was alert to and fell on for a defensive score, taking the winds out of the Raiders sails. Schua then easily executed a game defining drive that ended with the senior jumping over the stacked line on a keeper for the game sealing touchdown with a minute and twenty to go. The Raiders were able to score again but with only three seconds left on the clock and down nine, the game was up and the Rockets had done what they set out to do and stole the conference lead from their rivals.

The only thing now standing between the Rockets and back to back Zephyr Conference titles is a game against the former powerhouse of the Ceneisis Naval Academy, as the famous Fleftic Ensigns look to finish on a high note and have an impact on the conference title race. They played the Rockets very tough in the capital and are likely looking forward to the game in their home stadium with a chance to win a little bit of pride back for their school and to finish conference play with back to back wins, after defeating the Atheists away from home last week. However the Rockets know that any victory, even one that is less than pretty is enough to send them into the playoffs as conference champions and that is going to be one heck of a motivating tool to keep the team fresh and ready for whatever the Ensigns have ready to try and throw at the Rockets. The Raiders will be in the Empire to finish off their conference schedule, hoping for some help from Ceneisis in Abahnfleft, while looking to avoid an upset against the Mancodas who have looked better than their record suggests. The Raiders need the win to have a shot at the conference title and to keep the dream of both Vanorian schools making it into the playoff field alive.

[Quebec and Shingoryeo]

Celestia and Zephyr Conference - MD10 Cutoff!

Celestia Conference
Green Coast University Bullfrogs (BVR) 20–39 Northern Moravica University Cougars (BNJ)
Salamantic Universities Professors (KOR) 31–17 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder (BNJ)
Elephant Valley University Red Elephants (SNL) 23–13 University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park Warriors (CBP)

P Celestia Conference                                          Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Northern Moravica University Cougars                          10    7   3   303  243  +60
2 Salamantic Universities Professors                            10    6   4   295  170 +125
3 University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park Warriors         10    6   4   283  246  +37
4 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder                      10    5   5   310  264  +46
5 Elephant Valley University Red Elephants                      10    5   5   196  195   +1
6 Green Coast University Bullfrogs                              10    1   9   122  391 −269

Zephyr Conference
Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns (AFT) 7–36 Raynor University Rockets (VAL)
Mar Sara Tech Raiders (VAL) 16–20 University of Mancodas Mammoths (PFA)
Trent State University Feathercaps (TJU) 27–14 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists (NGD)

P Zephyr Conference                                            Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Raynor University Rockets                                     10    8   2   285  191  +94
2 Mar Sara Tech Raiders                                         10    7   3   361  227 +134
3 Trent State University Feathercaps                            10    7   3   296  239  +57
4 University of Mancodas Mammoths                               10    4   6   299  266  +33
5 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns                                10    3   7   191  363 −172
6 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists                  10    1   9   171  317 −146

[Chromatika]

Notes from The Rebel
Prelude: Sarai Michelle Bradwyn Gwenderyn
Part 1: Birth and Family
Part 2: The Pigskin
Part 3: Psychological Profile
Part 4: Felswyr State
Part 5: Life Beyond Football
Part 6: Ups and Dowons
Part 7: Heroes and Role Models

GWENDERYN
Part 8: On Alessandra and McAllister
or, Tall, Smol, and "G"
By: Aimée de Pierre, Guest Columnist

For this column, I had the distinct honor of meeting the two players that Sarai Gwenderyn has said are her closest friends: Alessandra Mio, former Firehawk and current Iron Legion/Dynaom, and Sara McAllister, the Kicker of the Firehawks and the Iron Legion.

DE PIERRE: Welcome, ladies, and thank you for making the time to talk to me today. It can't be easy to discuss a personal relationship, and I appreciate your initiative and helping us view another glimpse of the person behind the athlete of Sarai Michelle Bradwyn Gwenderyn.

A. MIO: Thank you for inviting me. I loved the years I got to play with Sarai as part of FSU, and am really enjoying our time as part of the Iron Legion. She's a brilliant athlete and an even better friend; I think it's fitting that I'm here to help tell the tale.

MCALLISTER: Not really my favorite thing to do, but I owe Sarai a lot, and this is a great way to pay back a part of which that I owe.

DE PIERRE: Today, I'll ask each of you a few questions, and then let you both have the floor for a bit to talk about whatever you want to supplement. Does that sound all right?

MCALLISTER: Copy. Go ahead.

A. MIO: Yes. Gotcha.

DE PIERRE: How did you first meet Sarai? What were your initial thoughts of her, and how has that changed since?

A. MIO: It was my Senior Year of High School, and it was the National Playoffs Semifinals. Jill Kieran was our Quarterback at the time, and we ran into this team called the Mt. Nial High School Anacondas. It was a game that we had won from the very beginning, but the Anacondas kept hanging around behind this young Quarterback. That was the first time I laid my eyes on Sarai - she threw for over three hundred yards and three touchdowns even with the losing effort.

After the game, she came up to me and shook my hand, and then looked at me in the eyes and asked me if I would be at Felswyr State. I had heard about the program, of course, and told her that I was going to be there for when the program took off. I had this Sophomore in high school who had just lost tell me that she'll see me in two years. The rest is history.

MCALLISTER: Everyone knew about Sarai if you played gridiron in high school. She was the best prospect at Quarterback, and she was starting to really catch on fire. The first time we met was in the Semifinals of the National Tournament our Senior year of High School. Her Anacondas took us down - the Glaciers - but she could see that I knew how to ball and she congratulated me on a good season. By then, I'd already committed to Felswyr State, and everyone knew that she would be there, too.

My first impression of her? Driven, focused, extremely serious yet professional. She was very gracious in victory and didn't hold it over us at all. I could tell that to her, this was more than just a sport, and that gave me hope."

DE PIERRE: Why do you think that you and Sarai are good friends? What makes her a good friend?

A. MIO: We were both film freaks who really liked looking for opportunities to torch the opposing defense. Whether it was double moves, straight go routes, little hip check here, throw over the shoulder there - we knew we were good and we knew how to make sure that we used our talents. All that time spent together on and off the field led to a strong friendship. I really think that we're on the same wavelength and that we can pretty much talk about anything, but specifically the game. She has an aptitude for the game that goes beyond her years, and she's so aware of the limitations of her body and her playing style that it's beautiful to watch.

What makes her a good friend? Her unerring consistency. She never blames you for what she did, she never concerns herself with things that she has no control over, and she's very good at just keeping things even-keeled no matter the circumstances surrounding any scenario. That steadfastness, that depth of character, that attitude of nothing being able to change her is something that sets her apart. Even after my graduation, she's helped me with film prep, and she keeps tabs on how I'm doing in the RFL. That's a real friend.

MCALLISTER: We are roommates, so we see each other pretty often. She's fun to spend time with, whether it be eating meals together, studying for finals (I'm a political science major so we can often pick each others' brains), or even on the practice field. Behind that professional, hard exterior is someone who really cares for her friends and the people in her life. We became more than friends, more than roommates - we became soul sisters.

DE PIERRE: Anything else you want to say?

MCALLISTER: I just want to let people know that Sarai is more than just a gridiron player. She's the one who'll take you to the hospital when you're sick, the one to make sure you're eating all three meals, the one to help you study for an exam at two in the morning even when she has a test on the same day as well. She's the kind of person to come spend a full day in the hospital with you when she should be preparing for a road game in the playoffs. When she decides that you're in her corner, you're absolutely in her corner, and she makes no compromises when it comes to those that she's claimed.

A. MIO: Nobody works harder than Sarai. I've had people say that so much of her success has to do with her natural ability. Natural ability is only a small part of a player's arsenal; effort and preparation are far more important. I've never seen someone who tries harder than Sarai. She deserves everything that she achieves, because she earned it. So none of that privileged crap, all right?

Afterwards, I talked to Sarai about her two best friends.

"Alessandra is the one who taught me the most about gridiron," says Sarai, "The hours we spent in the film room figuring things out in order to make the Firehawks' offense run was some of the most fun I've had. She's a pure student of the game, a role model about consistency and about enthusiasm, and a brilliant mind to pick. I hope I get to play with her for a long time, and when she retires, she continues to help spread the knowledge of the game."

When asked about Sara, Sarai lets out a long sigh.

"No, we're not dating, or anything like that. It's perfectly possible to have close friends who are like sisters to you, and I think anyone else saying otherwise is only cheapening those who actually love each other in a romantic fashion. Sara is a kindred spirit who means a lot to me. I never had a sibling growing up, and to have found one while in college is something that I never thought would happen. We understand each other at a fundamental level and it's a joy to get to know her."

Then, she blinks back tears as she continues, "And when she didn't wake up that one morning, I thought I'd lost the world. My parents thought the same, too - they love her like another daughter as well. I'm so glad she's doing better, that whomever runs this cruel world hasn't seen it fit to remove her from us yet. Every snap that I see her play is a joy, every moment a treasure."

This has been an insight to Sarai Gwenderyn the person behind Sarai Gwenderyn the player. Next, we'll look at some quotes from people who have had the privilege of having Sarai on their squads.

---

Team   1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q   |  Tot
HU      0   0   0   0   |    0
FSU     7  10  14  10   |   41

1Q
08:23 FSU TD - Sarai Gwenderyn 18 yard run (Sara McAllister Kick)

2Q
12:17 FSU FG - Sara McAllister 43 yard Field Goal
02:41 FSU TD - Nyata Antonucci 4 yard pass from Xanderick Spendlove (Sara McAllister Kick)

3Q
09:12 FSU TD - Sarai Gwenderyn 16 yard run (Sara McAllister Kick)
01:33 FSU TD - Niles Gwivern 7 yard pass from Sarai Gwenderyn (Sara McAllister Kick)

4Q
12:24 FSU TD - Sarai Gwenderyn 44 yard run (Sara McAllister Kick)
05:08 FSU FG - Michelle Breille 33 yard Field Goal

FIREHAWKS' ROOST, FELSWYR, MOUNTAIN DISTRICT, CHROMATIKA - Sarai Gwenderyn's ankle? It's fine.

The FSU Quarterback ran for 175 yards and three touchdowns on 9 attempts, went 15 of 19 for 211 yards and another score through the air, and the Firehawks utterly mopped the floor with their opposition as Felswyr State avenged their earlier loss by hanging forty-one points on Hoofstra at the Firehawks' Roost in Week 9 action.

Having been injured in the earlier meeting against Hoofstra, Gwenderyn showed that she was back to her athletic self in the rout, often outrunning the Defensive Line in its entirety while rounding the corner and reaching the second level time and time again. To round out the scoring, Xanderick Spendlove scored on a trick play, taking a screen pass from Gwenderyn behind the line of scrimmage and throwing it on a flag route to Nyata Antonucci.

It's the second straight week of scoring more than thirty points for the FSU offense, which is really starting to come to form; the usually stellar defense also contributed eight sacks and three turnovers to the margin.

FSU will play at Anasb Central University to end the regular season before embarking on their brutal OOC slate, starting with a trip to Cold Hill, a home match against Loyola-Istria, and the trip to Kohnhead City.

"We really are starting to get things going," remarked Naia Curentino, "We'll keep going on."

[Karditan]

"Sadeg ain't nothin' but drawks and tricks."
- Hoofstra linebacker Enrique Sokolov, on being asked if the Pride might be able to arrest their second-half skid while hosting the best team in the division.