NSCF 28 - Everything Thread

by **Valanora** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 9:14 pm

Valanora Times
A Mulligan

We have all been there, where there was a situation where we might have put our wrong foot forward and did something wrong or had said something totally stupid or not factual. What we would not want to give to be able to be able to pull that back and have a do over and try to get it right rather than making a bit of a fool of ourselves. Unfortunately for most, this is not something that can happen, unless some of you have figured out the secrets of time travel and are circumventing all the mistakes you will ever make by a series of micro corrections that might one day lead to the destruction of reality, but for those of us who have not we are forced to live with our mistakes. Mistakes do not have to be a wholly bad thing, despite how painful they may be or how they leave you feeling in the after math. No one that has ever existed has ever been perfect and even the greatest among us and among history have had situations where they might have screwed it all up and needed to find a way to fix the damage they did. Yet from these mistakes we also learn to grow and be better in the future, applying what we learned so that we do not have the same happen again.

Here at the times, we pride ourselves on reporting just the facts, abiding by the code that unless we can find at least two primary sources for any information that we put to print, it does not make it into the news. Last week's edition of the paper had abode by this process, following all the procedures we go through to ensure that our stories are as free from bias as can be obtained in a rational matter. We stated that the two Vanorian schools would not have access to the players and recruits that would have still been eligible to the team had the team participated in the previous NSCF season, going by the information that we had at the time. What we did not know was that the VSC was hearing a case from the pair of universities to grant these individuals an exception to restoring their eligibility, which was granted the morning before the two teams were set to play in their NSCF openers. Thankfully these players were still enrolled in the respective universities and with their teams when they got the news they were eligible to play in the upcoming games. The results speak for themselves but will they have impressed enough to make the power rankings in the first week?

5. Mar Sara Tech (Valanora) - Zephyr
Okay, there might be a bit of domestic bias here, but this team does not play for a year and yet they come out and put up a fifty spot while holding their opponents to just a touchdown? This is darn impressive regardless of whoever the opponent is, I do not even care if it was one of the weakest academy schools in all of the Empire. While Raynor may be the current kings of the Empire, Mar Sara looks like they are already in midseason form and ready to strike. The rest of the Zephyr has now been put on notice, let's see if the Raiders can continue this sort of punch or if it was just the excitement and hype of their first home game in two years.

4. Green City University (TJUN-ia) - Mineral
The Royal Eagles played much like the Raiders did, eliminating their first opposition of the season with over fifty points to the good. Yet the big difference between the two, Green City managed to do that on the road where the Raiders were playing in Mar Sara, making the Royal Eagles victory all that more impressive. While some might say the Mineral is a weak conference, you can only play those in front of you, which Green City did and did so quite impressively.

3. Northern Moravica University (Banija) - Celestia
Remember how we said the Celestia is one of the best conferences in this edition of the NSCF and that the Cougars were going to have their hands full in trying to be the top dogs in the conference? Yeah well they went on the road to start the season and doubled up Ratzupalfu University twenty-six to thirteen. Road wins are hugely impressive in this competition and to do so in a comfortable manner in one of the best conferences on paper? At least through the first week, Northern Moravica is living up to the preseason hype surrounding them.

2. Staramara Tech (Chromatika) - Horizon
If there is going to be a post title game hangover for the Lava, feeling sorry for themselves for not being able to win that final game of the season, then it did not start in the first week. Taking on the infamous Cavsar from Drawkland, the Lava looked near unbeatable with their very good performance against a team that is better than what their billing would suggest. A nineteen point victory is the sort of feel good performance that can get a team in the right way and perhaps crush any thoughts that the Lava are not ready to make a return trip to the championship game this season.

1. Richardson University (Ranoria) - Big Eight
To be the best, the other best has to lose, which is not what Richardson had in mind during that first week of conference play, becoming the third team in this list to have a very impressive road victory to start off their season. It is the sort of performance that you should come to expect from the champions though, as we have mentioned that the Big Eight really looks to have lost some of its luster over the last few years. Yet Richardson are the kings until they have that crown punched off their heads by someone else.

by **Cardenao** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 9:37 pm

"Let's gooooooo!!!!"

Yelling, cheering, applause, men and women alike hollering their heads off as they looked down from the stands.

"YOURRRRRRR LEBOIS SANTURA UNIVERSITY BRONCOS 39, bingham young university 22," yelled out the announcer, intentionally deflating his voice when stating the losers.

The Broncos had done it. Bobby Dials had done it. The whole team had done.

"Let's fucking gooooo!" He yelled out to his fellow BSU players and students around him. The students had rushed the field as soon as the clock had hit zero and the stewards were happy to let them do so, it wasn't everyday when your university wins its first ever NSCF game. The Broncos had won in command style after going down 7-0 early on in the first quarter. BSU's first ever official play? Bobby Dials, shotgun formation. Playclock winding down, 'Imma just take a nice look out right', call the snap. Ball hit his hands, brief glance out right to sell it, quick cross body release to heave the ball out left to Kellen Ciriaco running a skinny slant right through the heart of the defense. Ball hit his hands 12 yards from the line of scrimmage and the beefed up gazelle managed to power forward for another eight years. Not bad for your first ever play. Sadly Bobby couldn't quite get the ball over the line so Hamash Charelson came in to smash home a field goal from 36 yards out.

A cute chick with dyed blonde hair ran towards him smiling with her arms spread wide for a hug. "Bobbbbbyyyyyy I'm so happy for you!!!"

Bobby pushed her away, Bobby did not know her. Bobby went to find his center.

"SigggggMA! Ay thanks for holding the line down for me bro, you only fucked up twice in the second and that one slip in the 4th quarter [friendly laugh]"

"Bro you keep holding the count until the last second what the hell am I supposed to do!!! I save your ass in the second man, Ryan fucked his block and you were about to get trucked but noooo, I hit him with a chop and you threw the touchdown so you're welcome," BSU starting center Sigma Carreon shot back.

Bobby laughed, he loved this sort of shit talking between friends. They had just achieved something that would forever be remembered, they had just cemented their place in history by being the first college or university from Cardenao to win a college football game, the first ever! It was truly remarkable but that's what happens when you get a bunch of studs like me, Bobby Dials thought to himself. He was correct, to win in a game like gridiron football you had to assemble a lot of talent.

Of course, Bobby didn't realize that this whole thing was a government project. College football was always eagerly anticipated by the multiverse so promoting Cardenao in this sector was a logical move by President Mihaly Otamendi. The game of football itself installed a certain sort of hardness, a good sense of manliness to those who played and that could only stand to benefit the Cardenaoan population. Some order, weightlifting, and friendly competition between each other with honor on the field to help grow the next generation. It was all coming together as far as Mihaly could tell, and he took joy in watching the team he had helped cultivate destroy the BYU imposters.

Offensively, the Broncos had played very well indeed. Bobby Dials had had a great game, channeling his inner Isaka Jawara to complete 16 of 24 passes for 277 yards and four touchdowns while also rushing for 26 yards and a touchdown from a goal-line quarterback sneak. Kellen Ciriaco had been his favorite passing target in terms of yardage but, while the pair had combined for a touchdown, Bobby's highest scoring connection was with 20 year old tight end Nejc Graciano. The 6'5 athletic specimen hailed from Santa Joya, a cozy port city on the ocean, an up and coming haven for the slowly growing upper-middle class of Cardenao. The lad showed strong hands on four receptions total, with two of those resulting in touchdowns. Bobby really liked looking for Nejc when they were around 15-8 yards away from the endzone, that was the perfect amount of space for Nejc to make the most of his size, power, and speed to open a passing lane. Kicker Hamash Charelson had showed his skill by converting every PAT and smashing home three field goals, one from 36 yards out and the others a dink from 22 yards and a nice 45 yard sailing kick.

Defensively, things were a little shaky at first. For three defensive rotations in a row, the Broncos had looked pretty shaky. Coverage was loose, one pick-six opportunity was inexplicably dropped, it was just flat-out bad. Fortunately, after the offense had put ten points on the board it seemed some confidence flowed into the defensive unit and they went out to force three straight three and outs. The big performance came from right linebacker Alabaster Red, with the 19 year old notching a sack and nine tackles and directing the defensive unit like a veteran player. Ricky Spanish had proven to be an absolute beast. The 4-3 defense the Broncos ran meant he was usually up against two wide receivers on opposite ends of the field, but he made use of his high defensive IQ to cover the space between both of them and had the awareness to direct one of the linebackers to cover the other option as Ricky ran out to who he guessed, almost always correctly, the actual throw was heading. Special praise had to be given to left defensive end Jon de la Cruz who smashed down the BYU quarterback in the endzone to secure a safety.

This game really had it all on both ends of the field, and it was truly a glorious win for the LeBois Santura University BSU Broncos. Can they follow it up with another victory? Stayed tuned for next time!

by **Banija** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 10:24 pm

Horizon Conference

Matchday 2

These two little words will totally change your tune!

Starlight Division
Cavsar University Gladiators (DRK) 13–22 Felswyr State University Firehawks (CMT)
Staramara Tech Lava (CMT) 20–10 Sadeg State University Skyhawks (DRK)

Starlight Division                          Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Staramara Tech Lava (CMT)                   2    2   0    63   34  +29
2 Felswyr State University Firehawks (CMT)    2    2   0    42   30  +12
3 Sadeg State University Skyhawks (DRK)       2    0   2    27   40  −13
4 Cavsar University Gladiators (DRK)          2    0   2    37   65  −28

Equinox Division
Flosfores-Sea Catarina University Stallions (UVA) 3–29 Frontier Mechanical & Technical University Roughnecks (SAS)
University of Frisdrank Bulls (NTR) 22–23 Elanardris Shadow Walkers (NAG)

Equinox Division                                                Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Elanardris Shadow Walkers (NAG)                                2    2   0    58   35  +23
2 University of Frisdrank Bulls (NTR)                            2    1   1    51   45   +6
3 Frontier Mechanical & Technical University Roughnecks (SAS)    2    1   1    42   38   +4
4 Flosfores-Sea Catarina University Stallions (UVA)              2    0   2    25   58  −33

by **PotatoFarmers** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 11:05 pm

Sporting Daily
College Watch: Time to give the Zephyr crown back to the true owners

Fisakdaha - We all know the true Zephyr champions are the Vanorian colleges.

University of Mancodas and the Maximus Rochester Institute teams both opened their games in the Legends Division with wins, but the true eyes was on whether Raynor University Rockets and Mar Sara Tech Raiders continue to retain their form that has dominated Zephyr for god-knows how long. And with wins against Bowerstone University Bobcats and University of Lacragos Ebony Knights, the Vanorian teams respectively won their games, with the Raiders producing a huge victory against the Ebony Knights. But let us face it - Valanora is a much better nation at the sport when compared against Poafmersia anyways.

While both teams are aiming to improve their performance from the last cycle, neither are probably very enthusiastic about trying to keep the Zephyr conference title in Poafmersia, with the way the Vanorian teams might possibly dominate the Legends Division teams. "Surely they are going to have the better record ahead of the Conference Championship Game," say sports analysts. "It is ridiculous to expect anything from us." The true test of the team's capabilities will come in Matchday 5, when MRI hosts the Raiders and the Mammoths play the Rockets at home. Ahead of the team, both would just be aiming for a simple result - which is, to push for maximum wins. Of course, there is the question of the local derby in Matchday 3, but if anything, the teams would lowkey prefer to focus on defeating Vanorian opposition than anything.

by **Quebec and Shingoryeo** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 11:06 pm

Celestia & Zephyr

Week 2

Celestia Conference

Savannah Division
Elephant Valley University Red Elephants (SNL) 3–26 Northern Moravica University Cougars (BNJ)
University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder (BNJ) 24–33 Ratzupalfu University of Nature Egrets (SNL)

# Savannah Division                              Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
1 Northern Moravica University Cougars             2   2  0   52  16 +36
2 Ratzupalfu University of Nature Egrets           2   1  1   46  50  −4
3 Elephant Valley University Red Elephants         2   1  1   35  46 −11
4 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder         2   0  2   44  65 −21

Sequoia Division
Upper Westside University Red Pandas (STK) 37–29 Hankow State University Honey Badgers (UVI)
Universidade de Soria Bats (LIS) 20–20 Royal Navy Academy Mariners (NAS) (20–23 OT)

# Sequoia Division                               Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
1 Upper Westside University Red Pandas             2   2  0   90  48 +42
2 Hankow State University Honey Badgers            2   1  1   62  57  +5
3 Royal Navy Academy Mariners                      2   1  1   43  53 −10
4 Universidade de Soria Bats                       2   0  2   39  76 −37

Zephyr Conference

Legends Division
Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists (NGD) 28–33 University of Mancodas Mammoths (PFA)
Maximus Rochester Institute Gijikyhandasari Yeraiqhospifasas (PFA) 48–14 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns (AFT)

# Legends Division                                                   Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
1 Maximus Rochester Institute Gijikyhandasari Yeraiqhospifasas         2   2  0   55  17 +38
2 University of Mancodas Mammoths                                      2   2  0   60  48 +12
3 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists                         2   0  2   31  40  −9
4 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns                                       2   0  2   34  75 −41

Celestial Division
Raynor University Rockets (VAL) 57–16 University of Lacragos Ebony Knights (EVI)
Bowerstone University Bobcats (ATH) 17–33 Mar Sara Tech Raiders (VAL)

# Celestial Division                                                 Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
1 Mar Sara Tech Raiders                                                2   2  0   83  24 +59
2 Raynor University Rockets                                            2   2  0   97  55 +42
3 Bowerstone University Bobcats                                        2   0  2   56  73 −17
4 University of Lacragos Ebony Knights                                 2   0  2   23 107 −84

by **PotatoFarmers** » Thu Mar 02, 2023 11:42 pm

Mineral Conference

Matchday 2

Wake up, its results time!

Heartland Division
University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park Warriors (CBP) 22–43 Green City University Royal Eagles (TJU)
Trent State University Feathercaps (TJU) 27–7 Mount Winston University Diamond Hogs (GEM)

# Heartland Division                                                   Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
1 Green City University Royal Eagles                                     2   2  0   93  28 +65
2 Trent State University Feathercaps                                     2   2  0   66  43 +23
3 University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park Warriors                  2   0  2   58  82 −24
4 Mount Winston University Diamond Hogs                                  2   0  2   13  77 −64

Boreal Division
Las Ventosas de Universidad Pública Reserva Cui-ui (SGU) 31–16 Constantinople University Binturongs (NGS)
University of Alexandroupolis Redbirds (NGS) 17–15 Universidad Politécnica Autónoma del Metro-Boca Rana Zorrillos (SGU)

# Boreal Division                                                      Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
1 University of Alexandroupolis Redbirds                                 2   2  0   41  31 +10
2 Universidad Politécnica Autónoma del Metro-Boca Rana Zorrillos         2   1  1   62  17 +45
3 Las Ventosas de Universidad Pública Reserva Cui-ui                     2   1  1   47  40  +7
4 Constantinople University Binturongs                                   2   0  2   16  78 −62

by **Drawkland** » Fri Mar 03, 2023 10:57 am

Big Eight & Woodlands
Week 2

Bringing up the rear. Apologies for the delay!

BIG EIGHT
Cold Hill University 60–20 Ironpeak Institute of Athletics
Eastern Ploska University 0–27 Richardson University
LeBois Santura University 42–10 University of Kiyokonai
Bingham Young University 50–13 New Cardonia State

# Everless Division                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Richardson University              2    2   0    50    3  +47
2 Cold Hill University               2    2   0    80   37  +43
3 Eastern Ploska University          2    0   2    17   47  −30
4 Ironpeak Institute of Athletics    2    0   2    23   83  −60


# Evermore Division                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 LeBois Santura University          2    2   0    81   32  +49
2 Bingham Young University           2    1   1    72   52  +20
3 University of Kiyokonai            2    1   1    45   65  −20
4 New Cardonia State                 2    0   2    36   85  −49

WOODLANDS
N&N Palæontological-Centred Research University 30–3 The Academy of Space
The Terrestrial Acclimation Academy 23–32 Koronki University of Technology and Computing
Université St. Croix 30–0 Crimson Royal University
Crown's College 27–37 Université du Saguenay

# Cosmos Division                                  Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 N&N Palæontological-Centred Research University    2    2   0    49   10  +39
2 Koronki University of Technology and Computing     2    2   0    72   50  +22
3 The Terrestrial Acclimation Academy                2    0   2    30   51  −21
4 The Academy of Space                               2    0   2    30   70  −40


# Leaders Division                                 Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Université St. Croix                               2    2   0    55    9  +46
2 Université du Saguenay                             2    2   0    44   30  +14
3 Crown's College                                    2    0   2    36   62  −26
4 Crimson Royal University                           2    0   2     3   37  −34

by **Dod Rava** » Fri Mar 03, 2023 3:10 pm

The end of the second match of the NSCF of the Cosmos division, Terrestrial Dome of Sport. Dodsat transmission, commentator Dariusz Gil.

Harvey is wearing number 88 on his jersey and has been making an impact on every play. He's been tackling Terran players left and right, and he's been a thorn in their quarterback's side all game.
As time runs out, the Terrans become increasingly desperate. They know this is their last chance to score, so they're throwing everything they've got at the Crow's defence. But Harvey isn't going down without a fight. He will be charging forward with everything he's got! His gaze fixed on the quarterback! The ball is snapped, and Harvey bursts through the Terrans offensive line, his arms reaching out to make the tackle! The quarterback sees him coming... but it's too late!
Harvey slams into him with incredible force, knocking him to the ground and bringing the game to an end.
As the referee blows the final whistle, the present KUTC supporters crowd erupts in applause.
The game has ended, and the KUTC Crow's have triumphed it's their second win in a row in their rookie season. Harvey's teammates swarm around him, patting him on the back and congratulating him on an excellent performance.
He's beaming from ear to ear, pleased with himself today as he should. The players go down to the locker room and I thank you for your attention.

Players with big smiles walk down to the locker room and give each other high fives and pats on the back. The most important figures in today's match were two South Newlanders who played outstanding matches, the aforementioned Philip Harvey and Logan Harrison. Bogdan Koper, who was born in Koronki, also had a fantastic game, with his passes being extremely accurate. When the players have already removed their equipment, coach Jeremiasz Koks emerges in the middle and begins speaking.

Gentlemen! I must say that I enjoyed your game a lot. I understand that our football programme is still in its early stages, but if you continue to demonstrate your commitment, I believe we have a bright future ahead of us. I have no comments about your game; keep up the good work; for the time being, I will not make any tactical or roster changes. Now it's time to move on to other things. I received a letter from the dean's office, which concerned five people whose names I will not mention.
The glances spread throughout the locker room; no one knew who it was about, except for those about whom the coach spoke. But these people should concentrate on learning; fortunately, because you play on a team and received scholarships, this time will be turned a blind eye; next time, there will be no such exceptions. That's all for now; go get some rest.

by **Banija** » Fri Mar 03, 2023 4:22 pm

OOC Note: Conference standings ONLY show conference games, while general ranking table shows all games played.

Northern 9
Week 3
Central Aksum University Titans 30–29 Aksum State Stars
Igara University Ravens 38–7 Zawadi University Anacondas
Moravica A&M Centaurs 40–10 University of Bwaruya Penguins
Kocasun Lake University Pioeneers 40–33 Moravica International University Sea Dragons

Week 4
University of Bwaruya Penguins 26–22 Kocasun Lake University Pioeneers
Zawadi University Anacondas 13–20 Moravica A&M Centaurs
Aksum State Stars 34–13 Igara University Ravens
University of Aksum Silverbacks 31–17 Central Aksum University Titans

Week 5
Igara University Ravens 23–16 University of Aksum Silverbacks
Moravica A&M Centaurs 33–27 Aksum State Stars
Kocasun Lake University Pioeneers 40–56 Zawadi University Anacondas
Moravica International University Sea Dragons 42–7 University of Bwaruya Penguins

   Northern 9                                          Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Moravica A&M Centaurs                                 3   3  0   93  50 +43
 2 Igara University Ravens                               3   2  1   74  57 +17
 3 Moravica International University Sea Dragons         2   1  1   75  47 +28
 4 Aksum State Stars                                     3   1  2   90  76 +14
 5 University of Aksum Silverbacks                       2   1  1   47  40  +7
 6 Kocasun Lake University Pioeneers                     3   1  2  102 115 −13
 7 Central Aksum University Titans                       2   1  1   47  60 −13
 8 Zawadi University Anacondas                           3   1  2   76  98 −22
 9 University of Bwaruya Penguins                        3   1  2   43 104 −61

Upper Coastal Conference
Week 3
Central Moravica Tech Springboks 6–31 Kabonero III University Hyenas
Islamic University of Busoga Caracals 53–17 Moravica State University Jackrabbits
Lake Wakiso State Lukwata 25–54 Wild Valley University Hornets
Budaka College for Literature and the Arts 37–33 Desert Sands University Scorpions

Week 4
Wild Valley University Hornets 64–7 Budaka College for Literature and the Arts
Moravica State University Jackrabbits 7–10 Lake Wakiso State Lukwata
Kabonero III University Hyenas 43–29 Islamic University of Busoga Caracals
Istria City College King Crabs 23–20 Central Moravica Tech Springboks

Week 5
Islamic University of Busoga Caracals 29–9 Istria City College King Crabs
Lake Wakiso State Lukwata 23–9 Kabonero III University Hyenas
Budaka College for Literature and the Arts 26–47 Moravica State University Jackrabbits
Desert Sands University Scorpions 42–11 Wild Valley University Hornets

   Upper Coastal Conference                            Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Wild Valley University Hornets                        3   2  1  129  74 +55
 2 Islamic University of Busoga Caracals                 3   2  1  111  69 +42
 3 Kabonero III University Hyenas                        3   2  1   83  58 +25
 4 Lake Wakiso State Lukwata                             3   2  1   58  70 −12
 5 Desert Sands University Scorpions                     2   1  1   75  48 +27
 6 Istria City College King Crabs                        2   1  1   32  49 −17
 7 Moravica State University Jackrabbits                 3   1  2   71  89 −18
 8 Budaka College for Literature and the Arts            3   1  2   70 144 −74
 9 Central Moravica Tech Springboks                      2   0  2   26  54 −28

Valley Interior Conference
Week 3
University of Loyola-Jinja Ostriches 37–18 University of Hangaza Gazelle
Western Hangaza University Timberwolves 26–16 Hangaza State University White Tigers
West Bunyoro University Tigersharks 19–26 Lake Alexandre State University Vipers
Arlenia College Leopards 6–28 North Kitara University Wild Dogs

Week 4
Lake Alexandre State University Vipers 23–16 Arlenia College Leopards
Hangaza State University White Tigers 37–42 West Bunyoro University Tigersharks
University of Hangaza Gazelle 43–24 Western Hangaza University Timberwolves
University of Moravica Golden Bears 39–37 University of Loyola-Jinja Ostriches

Week 5
Western Hangaza University Timberwolves 36–9 University of Moravica Golden Bears
West Bunyoro University Tigersharks 23–13 University of Hangaza Gazelle
Arlenia College Leopards 6–13 Hangaza State University White Tigers
North Kitara University Wild Dogs 23–36 Lake Alexandre State University Vipers

   Valley Interior Conference                          Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Lake Alexandre State University Vipers                3   3  0   85  58 +27
 2 Western Hangaza University Timberwolves               3   2  1   86  68 +18
 3 West Bunyoro University Tigersharks                   3   2  1   84  76  +8
 4 University of Loyola-Jinja Ostriches                  2   1  1   74  57 +17
 5 North Kitara University Wild Dogs                     2   1  1   51  42  +9
 6 Hangaza State University White Tigers                 3   1  2   66  74  −8
 7 University of Hangaza Gazelle                         3   1  2   74  84 −10
 8 University of Moravica Golden Bears                   2   1  1   48  73 −25
 9 Arlenia College Leopards                              3   0  3   28  64 −36

Southern Shango Conference
Week 3
Sankt Adelheid University Sea Eagles 48–24 University of Loyola-Busukuma Crusaders
North Ankole University Headhunting Sloughis 23–37 Bunyoro A&M University Waterbucks
Thabiso University Giraffes 32–40 University of Ankole Warriors
Jawara Technological College Cheetahs 37–37 Banijan Star and Crescent University Cape Cobras (40–43 OT)

Week 4
University of Ankole Warriors 36–37 Jawara Technological College Cheetahs
Bunyoro A&M University Waterbucks 34–15 Thabiso University Giraffes
University of Loyola-Busukuma Crusaders 24–3 North Ankole University Headhunting Sloughis
Kizza I College Cubs 19–27 Sankt Adelheid University Sea Eagles

Week 5
North Ankole University Headhunting Sloughis 17–27 Kizza I College Cubs
Thabiso University Giraffes 35–41 University of Loyola-Busukuma Crusaders
Jawara Technological College Cheetahs 29–40 Bunyoro A&M University Waterbucks
Banijan Star and Crescent University Cape Cobras 22–36 University of Ankole Warriors

   Southern Shango Conference                          Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Bunyoro A&M University Waterbucks                     3   3  0  111  67 +44
 2 Sankt Adelheid University Sea Eagles                  2   2  0   75  43 +32
 3 University of Ankole Warriors                         3   2  1  112  91 +21
 4 University of Loyola-Busukuma Crusaders               3   2  1   89  86  +3
 5 Kizza I College Cubs                                  2   1  1   46  44  +2
 6 Banijan Star and Crescent University Cape Cobras      2   1  1   65  76 −11
 7 Jawara Technological College Cheetahs                 3   1  2  106 119 −13
 8 Thabiso University Giraffes                           3   0  3   82 115 −33
 9 North Ankole University Headhunting Sloughis          3   0  3   43  88 −45

Kuanen River Conference
Week 3
Bunyoro State University Zebras 36–27 Lesedi University Rhinos
Hangaza Tech River Rats 28–17 University of Bunyoro Triceratopses
Hangaza A&M Bull Elephants 36–27 North Hangaza University Bullfrogs
Albert III College Phoenix 33–47 Nsade State University Fighting Hogs

Week 4
North Hangaza University Bullfrogs 62–17 Albert III College Phoenix
University of Bunyoro Triceratopses 31–9 Hangaza A&M Bull Elephants
Lesedi University Rhinos 28–20 Hangaza Tech River Rats
Dodoma City College Warrior Toads 27–30 Bunyoro State University Zebras

Week 5
Hangaza Tech River Rats 33–6 Dodoma City College Warrior Toads
Hangaza A&M Bull Elephants 20–34 Lesedi University Rhinos
Albert III College Phoenix 26–14 University of Bunyoro Triceratopses
Nsade State University Fighting Hogs 26–30 North Hangaza University Bullfrogs

   Kuanen River Conference                             Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 North Hangaza University Bullfrogs                    3   2  1  119  79 +40
 2 Hangaza Tech River Rats                               3   2  1   81  51 +30
 3 Lesedi University Rhinos                              3   2  1   89  76 +13
 4 Bunyoro State University Zebras                       2   2  0   66  54 +12
 5 Nsade State University Fighting Hogs                  2   1  1   73  63 +10
 6 University of Bunyoro Triceratopses                   3   1  2   62  63  −1
 7 Hangaza A&M Bull Elephants                            3   1  2   65  92 −27
 8 Albert III College Phoenix                            3   1  2   76 123 −47
 9 Dodoma City College Warrior Toads                     2   0  2   33  63 −30

Lower Coastal Conference
Week 3
South Kitara University Sea Lions 35–13 Mamari University Sand Spiders
Air Force Pegasi 16–17 Navy Seamen
Kabakono University Night Owls 32–16 Army Raiders
Akwadua University Moon Rabbits 13–9 Central Kitara University Dingoes

Week 4
Army Raiders 17–23 Akwadua University Moon Rabbits
Navy Seamen 34–29 Kabakono University Night Owls
Mamari University Sand Spiders 22–14 Air Force Pegasi
University of Kitara Hippogriffs 36–20 South Kitara University Sea Lions

Week 5
Air Force Pegasi 16–9 University of Kitara Hippogriffs
Kabakono University Night Owls 26–9 Mamari University Sand Spiders
Akwadua University Moon Rabbits 32–15 Navy Seamen
Central Kitara University Dingoes 48–16 Army Raiders

   Lower Coastal Conference                            Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Akwadua University Moon Rabbits                       3   3  0   68  41 +27
 2 Kabakono University Night Owls                        3   2  1   87  59 +28
 3 Navy Seamen                                           4   2  2   89  107 −18
 4 Central Kitara University Dingoes                     2   1  1   57  29 +28
 5 University of Kitara Hippogriffs                      2   1  1   45  36  +9
 6 South Kitara University Sea Lions                     2   1  1   55  49  +6
 7 Air Force Pegasi                                      3   1  2   46  48  −2
 8 Mamari University Sand Spiders                        3   1  2   44  75 −31
 9 Army Raiders                                          4   1  3   79 126 −47

Sun Valley Conference
Week 3
Musulu College Black Herons 30–34 University of Buganda Long-Tailed Lizards
Shidane University Sunbirds 33–23 Pumbasa University Pythons
Ankole Tech Moose 26–0 Heshima & Usian University Guardian Angels
Ankole College for Creative Studies Butterflies 12–23 Zakuta State University Crocodiles

Week 4
Heshima & Usian University Guardian Angels 17–0 Ankole College for Creative Studies Butterflies
Pumbasa University Pythons 20–32 Ankole Tech Moose
University of Buganda Long-Tailed Lizards 47–24 Shidane University Sunbirds
Buganda State University Green Mambas 29–16 Musulu College Black Herons

Week 5
Shidane University Sunbirds 23–23 Buganda State University Green Mambas (32–26 OT)
Ankole Tech Moose 34–46 University of Buganda Long-Tailed Lizards
Ankole College for Creative Studies Butterflies 14–34 Pumbasa University Pythons
Zakuta State University Crocodiles 14–17 Heshima & Usian University Guardian Angels

   Sun Valley Conference                               Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 University of Buganda Long-Tailed Lizards             3   3  0  127  88 +39
 2 Ankole Tech Moose                                     3   2  1   92  66 +26
 3 Heshima & Usian University Guardian Angels            3   2  1   34  40  −6
 4 Shidane University Sunbirds                           3   2  1   89  96  −7
 5 Zakuta State University Crocodiles                    2   1  1   37  29  +8
 6 Buganda State University Green Mambas                 2   1  1   55  48  +7
 7 Pumbasa University Pythons                            3   1  2   77  79  −2
 8 Musulu College Black Herons                           2   0  2   46  63 −17
 9 Ankole College for Creative Studies Butterflies       3   0  3   26  74 −48

Banijan Athletic Conference
Week 3
Tree of Life University Okapi 13–6 Mercy University Bunyoro Rabbits
Ankole State University Killer Whales 16–0 Kitara Tech Buffalo
Sarr University Wombats 23–10 University of the Hills Highland Hares
Fort Lusiyo University Elks 38–29 Eastern Hangaza University Platypuses

Week 4
University of the Hills Highland Hares 39–10 Fort Lusiyo University Elks
Kitara Tech Buffalo 38–37 Sarr University Wombats
Mercy University Bunyoro Rabbits 37–39 Ankole State University Killer Whales
Buganda Agricultural School Chimpanzees 20–13 Tree of Life University Okapi

Week 5
Ankole State University Killer Whales 23–19 Buganda Agricultural School Chimpanzees
Sarr University Wombats 13–25 Mercy University Bunyoro Rabbits
Fort Lusiyo University Elks 42–36 Kitara Tech Buffalo
Eastern Hangaza University Platypuses 22–16 University of the Hills Highland Hares

   Banijan Athletic Conference                         Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Ankole State University Killer Whales                 3   3  0   78  56 +22
 2 Fort Lusiyo University Elks                           3   2  1   90 104 −14
 3 University of the Hills Highland Hares                3   1  2   65  55 +10
 4 Mercy University Bunyoro Rabbits                      3   1  2   68  65  +3
 5 Buganda Agricultural School Chimpanzees               2   1  1   39  36  +3
 6 Sarr University Wombats                               3   1  2   73  73   0
 7 Tree of Life University Okapi                         2   1  1   26  26   0
 8 Eastern Hangaza University Platypuses                 2   1  1   51  54  −3
 9 Kitara Tech Buffalo                                   3   1  2   74  95 −21

General Ranking System                                Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
 1 University of Buganda Long-Tailed Lizards           5    5   0   189  112  +77
 2 Bunyoro A&M University Waterbucks                   5    5   0   170  114  +56
 3 Akwadua University Moon Rabbits                     5    5   0   138   83  +55
 4 Islamic University of Busoga Caracals               5    4   1   196  101  +95
 5 Wild Valley University Hornets                      5    4   1   215  131  +84
 6 Hangaza Tech River Rats                             5    4   1   169  100  +69
 7 Kabakono University Night Owls                      5    4   1   157  105  +52
 8 Moravica A&M Centaurs                               5    4   1   154  111  +43
 9 Ankole State University Killer Whales               5    4   1   121   88  +33
10 Lake Alexandre State University Vipers              5    4   1   126  103  +23
11 Sankt Adelheid University Sea Eagles                4    3   1   155   82  +73
12 Hangaza A&M Bull Elephants                          5    3   2   121  132  −11
13 Moravica International University Sea Dragons       4    3   1   120   73  +47
14 Heshima & Usian University Guardian Angels          5    3   2    81   59  +22
15 Lesedi University Rhinos                            5    3   2   157  147  +10
16 Lake Wakiso State Lukwata                           5    3   2   110  124  −14
17 Budaka College for Literature and the Arts          5    3   2   134  186  −52
18 South Kitara University Sea Lions                   4    3   1   145  103  +42
19 Zakuta State University Crocodiles                  4    3   1   111   73  +38
20 University of Loyola-Jinja Ostriches                4    3   1   143  107  +36
21 Istria City College King Crabs                      4    3   1   113   78  +35
22 West Bunyoro University Tigersharks                 5    3   2   152  121  +31
23 Western Hangaza University Timberwolves             5    3   2   128   97  +31
24 Kabonero III University Hyenas                      5    3   2   124   98  +26
25 Kizza I College Cubs                                4    3   1   107   82  +25
26 University of Ankole Warriors                       5    3   2   154  132  +22
27 Igara University Ravens                             5    3   2   135  116  +19
28 Navy Seamen                                         6    3   3   144  151   −7
29 Fort Lusiyo University Elks                         5    3   2   161  174  −13
30 North Hangaza University Bullfrogs                  5    3   2   156  169  −13
31 University of Aksum Silverbacks                     4    2   2   114   90  +24
32 Shidane University Sunbirds                         5    2   3   135  183  −48
33 Buganda Agricultural School Chimpanzees             4    2   2    87   99  −12
34 Tree of Life University Okapi                       4    2   2    70   53  +17
35 Ankole Tech Moose                                   5    2   3   147  148   −1
36 Hangaza State University White Tigers               5    2   3   129  155  −26
37 Mamari University Sand Spiders                      5    2   3   104  135  −31
38 Central Kitara University Dingoes                   4    2   2   118   92  +26
39 University of the Hills Highland Hares              5    2   3   134  111  +23
40 Buganda State University Green Mambas               4    2   2   124  105  +19
41 University of Bunyoro Triceratopses                 5    2   3   115  109   +6
42 Pumbasa University Pythons                          5    2   3   115  122   −7
43 Kitara Tech Buffalo                                 5    2   3   129  139  −10
44 University of Moravica Golden Bears                 4    2   2   115  129  −14
45 Jawara Technological College Cheetahs               5    2   3   156  176  −20
46 University of Hangaza Gazelle                       5    2   3   135  165  −30
47 Zawadi University Anacondas                         5    2   3   123  160  −37
48 Central Aksum University Titans                     4    2   2    90  132  −42
49 Aksum State Stars                                   5    2   3   184  126  +58
50 University of Kitara Hippogriffs                    4    2   2   131   90  +41
51 Nsade State University Fighting Hogs                4    2   2   115  112   +3
52 Bunyoro State University Zebras                     4    2   2   106  122  −16
53 Kocasun Lake University Pioeneers                   5    2   3   145  164  −19
54 North Kitara University Wild Dogs                   4    2   2    73   93  −20
55 University of Loyola-Busukuma Crusaders             5    2   3   111  141  −30
56 Army Raiders                                        6    2   4   120  174  −54
57 Mercy University Bunyoro Rabbits                    5    1   4   106  130  −24
58 Thabiso University Giraffes                         5    1   4   133  199  −66
59 Musulu College Black Herons                         4    1   3   102  104   −2
60 Desert Sands University Scorpions                   4    1   3   106  118  −12
61 Dodoma City College Warrior Toads                   4    1   3    97  114  −17
62 Sarr University Wombats                             5    1   4   110  128  −18
63 Central Moravica Tech Springboks                    4    1   3    85  115  −30
64 Air Force Pegasi                                    5    1   4    81  121  −40
65 North Ankole University Headhunting Sloughis        5    1   4   100  141  −41
66 Banijan Star and Crescent University Cape Cobras    4    1   3   128  170  −42
67 Moravica State University Jackrabbits               5    1   4   117  159  −42
68 Eastern Hangaza University Platypuses               4    1   3    68  116  −48
69 Albert III College Phoenix                          5    1   4   113  182  −69
70 University of Bwaruya Penguins                      5    1   4    68  170 −102
71 Ankole College for Creative Studies Butterflies     5    0   5    68  141  −73
72 Arlenia College Leopards                            5    0   5    52  160 −108

Game of the Weeks

University of Moravica Golden Bears 39–37 University of Loyola-Jinja Ostriches

Big public state research university in Moravica, against a campus of the University of Loyola- in a big game with conference championship implications. Where have we seen that before? The Ostriches and Golden Bears entering the matchup as top 10 teams, with the Golden Bears as the #10 team, while the Ostriches sit as the #6 team in the country. The Game was in Slobochia.

A deja vu for fans of the NSCF's Celestia conference. But this game was hyped- and lived up to its billing. It was all about offense- and these quarterbacks absolutely had the gall to go toe for toe with one another. It was tight all the way around- game was tied 7-7 after a quarter, and 17-17 at halftime. It only got crazier from that point on. The third quarter, the Golden Bears hit lightning twice- and scored 13 points. Two Big TDs(with one missed PAT), and they led, 30-17. But after the Ostriches made the score 30-24 to end the third quarter, things really went crazy in the fourth quarter.

The Ostriches would score the game-tying touchdown on the first play of the fourth quarter. A 55 yard post route, down the middle of the field, where the safety was just turned around and twisted away from the play by the Loyola-Jinja QB. They kicked the PAT to take the lead- but the PAT was blocked. Not only blocked- but returned. All the way to the end zone, for 2 points to the Golden Bears. 32-30, the University of Moravica. The Golden Bears, naturally, had to take advantage of it, and they did, engineering a 7 minute drive that would end in a TD on a second and goal, via a QB sneak. 39-30, to the Golden Bears.

Loyola-Jinja, forced to comeback, tried to engineer one. They were able to get a TD drive. Then, the Golden Bears got the ball back. They were almost successful in running out the clock, getting a few first downs. But on a third and 3 that would have been the game- the Ostriches MLB stepped up, and ripped the ball out- forcing a fumble. Loyola-Jinja recovered, and suddenly, they were back in business. They drove down to the 27 yard line. where they had an opportunity to win the contest. But... Well, the Loyola-Jinja radio announcer will say it.

"There's two seconds left. Neither team has any timeouts. The game rests on the foot of our kicker. 44 yards- that's a long, long ways in college. We don't have Dwayne Markseon kicking for us. The snap is good, the hold is good, the kick is up.... It has the leg, it's leaning left... AND CLANG! OH DAMN, OH NO! The ball has clanged off the left upright and landed in the end zone. The kick is no good, I repeat- the kick is no good. Loyola-Jinja loses for the first time all season, as the Golden Bears triumph, 39-37."

Most Impressive Result of the Week

Kizza I College Cubs 19–27 Sankt Adelheid University Sea Eagles

Kizza I College- the #1 team in Banija. That week 3 bye. Week 4, hosting Sankt Adelheid to kick off conference play. And... The Sea Eagles were never going to be pushovers. The Teus Catholic school, traditionally not so great at sports, has really come alive in gridiron the past few years. It is one of Banija's most diverse schools, due to decent-sized populations of Siovanijans & Graentfjallers attending classes here. They had an up and down start to the season. They got rolled by Nsade State in week 1, being held to just 9 points.

But they recovered nicely. They put up 71 against North Ankole- the most anybody has put up in any game this season so far. 10 touchdowns- ridiculous number. Week 3, they rolled over Loyola-Busukuma at home, doubling them up, 48-24. So what happened in week 4? This visit to Kizza I College. A nice Sea Eagles team.. But not real conference contenders, right? There's nothing that's more of a potential statement game than going to the house of the #1 team in the land and beating them. And that's exactly what the Sea Eagles did.

It was all about defense for the Sea Eagles on this night. Seven times, did the Cubs reach the red zone. 400+ yards of total offense. The results? FG, FG, INT, TD, FG, FG, TO ON DOWNS. 19 points on 7 red zone possesions is disastrous- there's no doubt about it. But the Sea Eagles were bend and don't break. When they needed a stop, they'd get one. They had a DT bust 3rd and goal handoffs for losses twice in the first quarter. An end zone interception, on a 1st and goal from the 7, in the second quarter. In the third and fourth quarter, sacks on third and goal forcing field goals. And, of course, an insane goal line stand to finish the game.

We'll get to that in a second though. Doing it on defense- but the offense put in work as well. The Sea Eagles HB was majestic, having the game of his life. Their HB had 189 yards on the ground on 32 carries, showing off his own ability to be a workhorse at nearly 6 yards a carry. He added 65 receiving yards on 6 catches, a ridiculous 38 touches. He had two TDs, one rushing and one receiving. The Sea Eagles added a third through the air, as their QB hit their WR1 for a 45 yard bomb. Two more field goals as well- 27-19.

Cubs, down 27-19, with 1:11 left, get a first down at the 8. First and goal- pass knocked down at the line of scrimmage. Second and goal- Nantambu scrambles for a yard. Third and goal- a fade to the corner is knocked away by the safety. And fourth down? Nantambu is sacked from the blind side by Sea Eagles DE George Bolado, ending the game and allowing the Sea Eagles to kneel it out. More than just an upset- it makes the Sea Eagles, at least early on, legitimate contenders to win their whole damn conference.

Upset of the Week

Desert Sands University Scorpions 42–11 Wild Valley University Hornets

"Any given Saturday." That's the motto for college football. That's what happened just last week, in Busukuma, for the Cubs. Think about this Week 5 matchup. A win for the Golden Hornets, with losses by Kizza I College and Zakuta State ahead of them, would almost certainly vault them into #1 in the rankings- and probably a unanimous #1, at that. Probably the hottest team in the country. Remember, 7 TDs in their first 7 possesions against Lesedi in week 2. Week 3? Travel to Lake Wakiso State, who are rivals and contenders to win the UCC, and smoke by 29, putting 54 points on the road. And then, against a bad Budaka College squad, utterly destroy them- 64-7. So playing another bad team, this one Busogan, should have been a walk in the park. Especially with Baka Webo, the early favorite for player of the year, leading the squad. Contrast that with Desert Sands.

Two double digit losses in non-con play. Then, a tough road loss to a BAD Budaka College team. Then a bye in week 4. Those 2 weeks really make a difference? This is probably the most shocking result you'll see all season. A high-flying, unbeaten WVU team, getting boatraced by a winless Desert Sands team. That goes to show- what the hell happened? Well, O-Line injuries. Hell, look at that first drive. 5/5 for 62 yards, and a TD. They even went for two- style points matter when you have polls, and they got it. 8-0 early. Then, the worst injury luck you've ever seen. LT, rolls his ankle. RT roll his ankle on the very next play. Then, the LG gets an ejection for targeting(on a block!)

One series, three of your starting O-Line go down. Webo is suddenly just running for his life. Desert Sands consistently bringing extra guys, and consistently getting home. Webo showed his toughness by staying in there. He took a stunning 16 QB hits in the backfield, including 6 sacks. Constantly running for your life, you're not going to do much on O. Not even this guy can overcome that. He ended up with 2 INTs. And the WVU defense, called upon to have a huge game, just melted away. Three first half touchdowns of 75+ yards put the game out of reach early, and they just ran the ball down their throat. After it was 35-7 towards the end of the 3rd quarter, Webo was pulled, mostly for his own sake- too many hits.

"Well, I'll say this- I'm glad this one's over." Said WVU's head coach. "We've got to get healthy. Everything that could have gone wrong, went wrong. Any given Saturday. But we've got 6 conference games left. We've been Lake Wakiso State. We've got all sorts of time. Our goals are still directly in front of us." For Desert Sands, of course, what a way to get their first victory of the season. They aren't doing much of anything this year- there's a reason they're 1-3. But still, nice to hang your hat on this win, right? An exciting moment for Desert Sands fans, in what is sure to be a long season following this team.

Who's got the most surprising start?

Maybe we should have paid more attention to them almost taking down the #1 team in the land. It wouldn't have just been an epic victory- that game, in hindsight, seems as if it could have been a statement of intent. "We feel as if gridiron at this school is improving year by year." Said their head coach. "It's a great start. A LOT of season to go, of course, so don't quote me on anything at all- but that Kizza I College game put us in the spotlight. It's our job to take advantage of it."

The Centaurs rallied to beat Ankole Tech, 41-33, in week 2 of non-con play. But it's conference play where they've looked good. The N-9 is a tough conference- always has been. But the Centaurs, at least early on, seem to be taking care of business. Of course, beating the teams you are 'supposed to' doesn't necessarily generate accolades- but it's not necessarily guaranteed, either. We all watched Desert Sands death star WVU, right? The Centaurs crushed University of Bwaruya, 40-10, in week 3. And then, in week 4, they beat Zawadi. Both schools, of course, are 1-2. But both schools have wins- showing the parity in the N9.

The Centaurs then took on Aksum State. Not as prestigious as U of A, they were projected to finish second in the conference, and assuredly finish in a playoff spot. But the Centaurs played a fantastic game against them. And this time, they figured out how to finish the contest, even as home underdogs. 27-27 ballgame with 4 minutes left. Engineering a TD drive to score with 1:30 left. They missed the PAT- but it didn't matter. They came out on defense and immediately got a four and out to end the contest, and vault the Centaurs towards the top 10- and more importantly, first place in the N9. Can they shock everyone and actually win this conference?

Talking about the three remaining unbeatens

It's hard to go unbeaten in CFB. Not everyone can be Cold Hill, of course. After 5 weeks, there are just three undefeated teams remaining in Banija- and we're going to talk about all three of them. Interestingly enough- all of them are surprises. Not one of them was ranked in the preseason top 10! What gives?

Akwadua University Moon Rabbits(5-0)

The Moon Rabbits clock in at 5-0 in this point of the season. Quietly, they've been putting up all sorts of points. Big wins over Lake Alexandre State and Desert Sands in non-con play, although admittedly, not necessarily the strongest non-con schedule ever devised. The Moon Rabbits, in conference play, have become experts at winning those close games. The LCC is certainly, so far anyways, having a down year- but Akwadua seems to be lining themselves up in perfect position to take advantage of that.

It doesn't necessarily mean that all their wins have been pretty. An ugly 13-9 home win over Central Kitara did not exactly generate any accolades- nor did a close win over Army(who are surprisingly decent this year?) They did beat down on Navy- but of course, that's Navy. And they had two pick-sixes against Navy- not exactly replicable.

Who are they, then? Unbeaten contenders for a championship? Many don't think so. "Paper tigers." Many like to call them. Moon Rabbits welcome the lack of belief. "Don't believe in us, find- see us on the field." Said their QB. We'll see how voters deal with them... Are they top 10 bound?

University of Buganda Long-Tailed Lizards(5-0)

While the Long-Tailed Lizards haven't exactly played a world beater of a schedule either, they've actually looked much more impressive than, say, the Moon Rabbits in their path to this point. They were excellent, especially on defense, in their two non-conference games- only allowing 14 points in week 1, and then just 10 points in week 2. They scored 31 points in both contests. They showed how they were able to control the game, on both sides of the ball, at the point of attack on the line of scrimmage. They were excellent in the first half of both contests, taking 17-0 and 14-0 leads into halftimes of both of those games, respectively.

Best first half team in Banija? That might belong to WVU still(when they've got more than 2 healthy starting OL), but they've continued that trend. In week 3, Musulu College did give them all that they could handle. They struggled in the first half, for once, and then had to launch a big comeback. Down 30-20 with 8 minutes left, the Long-Tailed Lizards did just that, on the road. A 3 minute TD drive that ended with an 8 yard TD pass. Then, a three and out on defense. Followed by a punt return TD- special teams completing the comeback. Then, after a 3rd down sack forced them to punt, The Long-Tailed Lizards ran the last 3:54 off the clock with their ground game, and never looked back.

Fantastic road comeback victory. And after that, they went back to their usual first half levels of dominance. They blew out Shidane University, 47-24, in week 4. They led from start to finish in a wild contest against Ankole Tech in week 5, eventually winning that game by a score of 46-34. Zakuta State were overwhelming favorites to win the Sun Valley going into the season, and they still are betting favorites- but now, everyone's circling U of Buganda v. Zakuta State on their calendars. That has game of the year potential.

Bunyoro A&M Waterbucks(5-0)

Definitely a basketball school, yes- but suddenly, their football program is catching up? Here come the Waterbucks. Things don't necessarily come easy to this squad. They survived a furious comeback attempt by the Albert III College Phoenix in week 2, at home- with the Phoenix hitting a potential 47 yard game winning field goal as time expired, wide right. To give context, Albert III are currently 1-4, giving up over 36 points per game. Aka- not a good football team. So the fact that it was close, says a lot. (Of course, the University of Bunyoro actually lost to Albert III, which should give you a sense of how things over THERE are going).

But A&M did survive. And they did not rest on their laurels- they used that close call, against one of the worst teams in the country, to really change their direction. They traveled to North Ankole in week 3, and downed the Headhunting SLoughis by two touchdowns. Even then, the score was probably closer than the game actually was- at one point, the Waterbucks led by a score of 34-9 in the fourth quarter. A road blowout will always build your confidence, and the Waterbucks continued to build off of that game. They beat down on the Thabiso Giraffes, 34-15, and then traveled to Busukuma to take on Jawara Tech- and left our nation's capitol with a 40-29 win. Is the Southern Shango there for the taking?

Top 10 Rankings After Week 5 - 74 voters. One for each school, plus one for ULI and NMU.
#1 Islamic U of Busoga Caracals(4-1): Moved up four spots. Ranked #8 in preseason polls and #5 in the week 2 polls. 40 votes for #1.
#2 University of Buganda Long-Tailed Lizards(5-0): First time being ranked all season. 30 votes for #1.
#3 Kizza I College Cubs(3-1): Moved down two spots. Ranked #1 in the preseason polls and the week 2 polls. 3 votes for #1.
#4 Bunyoro A&M Waterbucks(5-0): First time being ranked all season
#5 Wild Valley Golden Hornets(4-1): Moved down two spots. Ranked #4 in the preseason polls, and #3 in the week 2 polls. 1 vote for #1.
#6 Zakuta State Crocodiles(3-1): Moved down four spots. Ranked #2 in the preseason polls and in the week 2 polls.
#7 Hangaza Tech River Rats(4-1): Moved down three spots. Ranked #9 in the preseason polls.
#8 Sankt Adelheid Sea Eagles(3-1): First time being ranked all season
#9 Akwadua Moon Rabbits(5-0): First time being ranked all season
#10 Moravica A&M Centaurs(4-1): First time being ranked all season

Ranked in the week 2 polls but unranked this week
University of Aksum(2-2): Ranked #3 in the preseason poll and #9 in the week 2 poll
Hangaza A&M Bull Elephants(3-2): Ranked #9 in the week 2 poll
University of Moravica Golden Bears(2-2): Ranked #5 in the preseason poll and #10 in the week 2 poll
Istria City College King Crabs(3-1): Ranked #7 in the week 2 poll
Loyola-Jinja Ostriches(3-1): Ranked #6 in the preseason poll and in the week 2 poll.

Lots of change here in the week 5 rankings! A lot of turnover in the top 10- there are 5 schools who are being ranked for the first time all season, meaning of course that half the top 10 has fallen out of that exclusive club over the course of the past few weeks. Let's analyze, shall we?

Of course, the question is- does anyone want to be #1? This was probably the hardest call to make. You could see the voters split on it, as well. But the Islamic U were the last man standing here. Their only loss is a tough road loss against Kabonero III, and more improtantly, they're handling business against good opponents. They manhandled the King Crabs, who were 3-0 heading into their matchup, and they blew out a quality Moravica State side. Someone's gotta be #1- they aren't as convincing as they could be, maybe, but like we said- somebody's gotta be #1. And right now, it's the Caracals.

What about behind them? The Long-Tailed Lizards have shot up to #2. Being undefeated has its perks, and they look like the country's best unbeaten side- so a top 2 ranking makes sense. If they keep winning, they've got a shot at that #1 overall slot. Behind them, we've got Kizza I College. Formerly the #2 team in the country, they've fallen, yes- but against a quality Sea Eagles side. Bettors still have them as the odds on favorites to get the #1 overall seed for the postseason, so we'll see how that goes. Waterbucks are behind them, who are also undefeated. Sounds about right.

WVU slot in at #5. They would've been a unanimous #1, if it wasn't for a 31 point loss against Desert Sands. I know, I know- obviously. "If you hadn't lost you'd be ranked higher!" But still, shocking- even considering they lost three OL on the same series. Despite that, the fundamentals are good for them. Deep roster, elite QB, and they've already beaten Lake Wakiso State. Sixth are the Crocodiles. Zakuta State would have probably hoped for a better start to this season, but still- so much left to play for. Behind them sit the River Rats. They're tied for first early in the KRC, their only L is to a quality Lesedi University... Don't sleep on 'em.

Lastly, we have teams 8-10. Sankt Adelheid beat the former #1 team in the country, and only have one loss- their inclusion in this top 10 is a must. The Moon Rabbits sit at #9. THey haven't been all that convincing. And while they are in the top 10, it is just barely... One of three unbeatens sitting behind 6 one loss teams in the rankings. Can they keep winning to get respect? And lastly, we have the centaurs. Moravica A&M has won four in a row. We'll see how they do from here on out.

NMU Brief- In the words of Lance Kabuye, Cougars restore 'the natural order of things' with big win in Elephant Valley to bring the Sally Trophy back home

ELEPHANT VALLEY, SOUTH NEWLANDIA- The history of EVU, against Banijan schools, somehow, is ugly. Didn't need a genius to tell you that. 2-14 over the last four years. Jacob Herron wasn't all that bad of a QB, but that 2-14 record against the two Banijan schools(1-7 against each school), probably gave him a worse reputation in Banija than he deserves. But, things are turning around. 1- EVU beat NMU last season, in week 9, to take possession of the Sally Trophy for the first time ever, stopping NMU's winning streak over EVU at 7 games.

And two- Herron's gone. The entire QB room are true freshmen, and Rico DiValles, out of Chromatika, won the job. They surprised many by going to the Istria Lightning Yard and getting out with a win. Famed journalist Ezekiel Uster(brother of EVU HC Addo Uster) said that EVU were 'going to change the narrative'. They're brimming with confidence. The fanbase, after that surprise road win, is feeling it too. In past years, NMU fans have flocked to the South Newlandian capitol. Not this year- Red Elephants fans largely held onto their tickets, creating a home atmosphere at the stadium that Kabuye admitted he 'had not seen before'.

It was a golden opportunity for them to take sole possession of first place in the Division. EVU- because they've never won the conference before. But for NMU as well. Win your first two games in the division, on the road? That's a big inside track on the journey to play for a conference title. But Kabuye had them prepared- and the defense dominated the young Red Elephants team. Holding the home team to just 166 yards of total offense(including just 34 on the ground), while forcing three turnovers, the Cougars were more than prepared for this challenge. They were hungry, they were motivated- they came to eat, and they did.

Divalles accounted for all three of those turnovers, the true freshman showing his age particularly on the first quarter interception. Not fully checking his read- he completely missed the OLB on the crossing route, and threw the ball directly to Zelotes Aero. He, of course, had a pair of fourth quarter turnovers when the game was no longer in doubt- a fumble and an interception in the fourth quarter, more forgiveable when you're down a bunch of points and just trying to make things happen. Still- while his debut was a dream one, The Cougars defense basically spent the entire day giving him his welcome to the Celestia moments.

Amira Kong(97 yards) and Balinda Kisero(75 yards) continue to be a formidable 1-2 duo on the ground, while Felix Strom did his thing in the air(211 yards, 2 TDs). It was a well-rounded effort- even coming up with no points on a fourth and goal at the 1 did not seem to bite us in the end. The Vanorian isn't worried about putting up gaudy numbers, however. "It's hard to win on the road in this competition, I don't care what anyone says." Strom told reporters. "So to open the season with back-to-back away wins, well, it's huge for this team. It's still extremely early in the season, however- we don't want to get caught up in anyone's hype. We've got a massive North v. South Showdown next weekend, and it's our goal to pummel the Blue Thunder into the ground."

Loyola-Istria articles
- Worst start in 22 seasons as the Blue Thunder start 0-2 with two home losses- is the season already over for the Istria squad?
- Dennis Zervos insists 'it's far too early to put a bow on this season' after second straight home loss, vows team will travel to Herzegovina City 'guns a blazin'
- Where to hide- Loyola fan suggests how to avoid bringing up gridiron at work with NMU colleagues as they open as 9 point underdogs for Week 3
- What's gone wrong? The team is allowing more than 32 points per game- breaking down the Blue Thunder's defensive deficiencies
- Around the Horn- Analyzing results from the Sequoia Division, and foreign schools across the NSCF
- The Fortress that was- tales of the 37 game winning streak at the Istria Lightning Yard, as we sit at 0-2 at home this season

by **Sairona** » Fri Mar 03, 2023 4:26 pm

Week 1

      1   2   3   4   F
NCS   3   6  14   0  23
KIY   7  14   7   7  35
BOX                                                                           NCS  KIY
  1 ??? 22 yard field goal                                                     3    0
    Otake Seika 13 yard pass from Fuse Masaharu (Watase Kenji kick)            3    7
  2 Sakuma Chikao 14 yard pass from Fuse Masaharu (Watase Kenji kick)          3   14
    Ide Tsukasa 28 yard run (Watase Kenji kick)                                3   21
    ??? 46 yard field goal                                                     6   21
    ??? 54 yard field goal                                                     9   21
  3 Utsunomiya Misao 11 yard pass from Fuse Masaharu (Watase Kenji kick)       9   28    
    ??? 13 yard pass from ??? (??? kick)                                      16   28
    ??? 1 yard run (??? kick)                                                 23   28
  4 Sakuma Chikao 8 yard run (Watase Kenji kick)                              23   35

Week 2

      1   2   3   4   F
KIY   3   0   0   7  10
LBS   7  14  14   7  42
BOX                                                                           KIY  LBS
  1 Watase Kenji 22 yard field goal                                            3    0
    Titus Berghearad 5 yard pass from Bobby Dials (Hamash Charleson kick)      3    7
  2 Colt Fullerton 5 yard run (Hamash Charleson kick)                          3   14
    Titus Berghearad 33 yard pass from Bobby Dials (Hamash Charleson kick)     3   21
  3 Nejc Graciano 20 yard pass from Bobby Dials (Hamash Charleson kick)        3   28   
  4 Riley Robinson 11 yard run (Hamash Charleson kick)                         3   35
  4 Colt Fullerton 1 yard run (Hamash Charleson kick)                          3   42
    Ichihara Zenko 8 yard run (Watase Kenji kick)                             10   42

THE BUZZ

The Yellowjackets put up a dominant performance to totally overpower the LeBois Santura University Broncos. Receiving the ball, Kiyokonai drove down the field and Watase Kenji converted the chip shot to give the visitors a virtually unassailable 3-0 lead at The Blue Bowl in Cardenao. "They scored 42 points against us, which proves they were terrified of our offence and had to keep throwing the ball," said head coach Hirai Katai, who was also very proud of his own offence's "masterful restraint" in scoring only 10 points "proving we trusted our defence to get the job done for us". Fuse Masaharu looks an early frontrunner for MVP as his accurate throwing picked out the Cardenao defensive backs three times with throws of such pinpoint precision that the interceptions virtually caught themselves, and indeed the Yellowjackets played with such assured confidence that they were able to bench Masaharu by the fourth quarter for backup Ichihara Zenko, who showed off his speed with an 8 yard rushing score. "With perhaps just one minor exception," said Hirai, "It was an absolutely complete performance."

by **-Anthor-** » Sat Mar 04, 2023 11:58 am

Bearcats return to NCSF, drop first 2 games
Despite a very close finish in Game 1, the Bearcats find themselves without a win yet heading into Week 3

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Rosalie Towner (@RosyTownie)(TH)
^{Gerald 38, 608AE 11:30 AM | Vaumort, Anthor}

Vaumort, Anthor(Herald) — Bowerstone University returns to the international collegiate gridiron competition as it makes its return for the 28^th edition of NSCF, and not without some major changes. Long time followers of the team will note the change in nickname, having gone by the "Bolts" since their debut way back in NCSF 22, the athletic department decided to adopt a team name more unique and switched it to Bearcats ahead of this new season; the long time head coach George Nevin who oversaw Bowerstone achieve 3 non-playoff bowl titles, and advance to knockout rounds twice, was dismissed two years ago and replaced with then 45-year old Michael Derrick, who had spent the prior six seasons serving as the offensive coordinator on the AGL's Kincardine Warriors where he managed to build up a worthy reputation as a suitable member of the next-generation of AGL head coaches, but instead surprisingly accepted the offer to head up Bowerstone instead.

Most Bearcats fans knew heading into this that unfortunately the team was searching a bit for a solid identity; nominally, the mission was to make a marked return to the Zephyr Conference and qualify for a bowl or playoffs, but the biggest question mark hangs over the quarterback position. Richard Leyton was redshirted last year to allow Derrick to experiment with a junior walkon Darien Underhill - he was a much different quarterback that is typical for Bowerstone, a through-and-through scrambler and Derrick wanted to experiment with changing up the typical air raid schemes Bowerstone had used in the past. It worked to a remarkable degree, and Bowerstone won the domestic championship title but Underhill declared he was leaving for the AGL draft in the offseason and that left a hole that needed to be filled; four quarterbacks now reside on the roster, and only freshman Lucien Yorick follows Underhill in his scrambler ways but didn't have much starting time in high school, freshman Halli Sullivan suffered with consistency problems in the offseason buildup, and so Derrick has chosen to give Leyton his starting title back, narrowly edging out junior Daniel Irvin, but rumors had abounded that it's essentially open season at the quarterback position, largely dependent on results; and so far, as we head into Week 3, those results are not looking very good.

Their first game back on the international stage, the Bearcats went up against the storied Raynor University Rockets and their starting QB Octavien Soh-Brousseau, and fought a back and forth game that ultimately led to Soh-Brousseau leading the Rockets on a game-winning fourth-quarter drive that led his team to a 40-39 victory; Bowerstone's Leyton performed well enough, going 20-32, 311 yards and 2 touchdowns however the team was marred by 3 turnovers - all of them coming off of fumbles, the first when Rocket's defensive end Lucas Digernes managed to split the gap and fly by Magnus Russell and blew halfback Gladwin Norwood up; the second was when Leyton attempted to force a slant pass to Nicol Quinlan who was run over by Colby Nolan and managed to recover the ball as well, and the third preceded the Rocket's game winning drive, when Leyton himself was sacked by Colin Morris, and Zakarias Håkansson recovered the ball that would set up the final drive. The Bearcats defense allowed 40 points, and defensive coordinator blamed the poor performance on their inability to pressure Soh-Brousseau - the defensive unit only recorded a single sack, but all throughout the game the Rocket's QB had very little pressure as his offensive line proved too tough for the Bearcats to get by and it allowed them to set up many of their successful throws.

Heading into their Week 2 game against Raynor's rival Mar Sara, who was fresh off of a huge 50 point victory in the opening week, the Bearcats made some interesting choices. All but confirming the competition rumors at the QB position, ahead of the game HC Michael Derrick announced that Daniel Irvin would start over Richard Leyton, and under him unfortunately the offense could never get it moving; the whole unit only posted 208 yards for the day, and 111 of them came through rushing attempts led by Ivor Rafferty, Lyle St. John and Dan Albanson; Irvin went 10-29, just 98 yards and no touchdowns; fullback Lyle St. John scored the offense's only touchdown of the day early in the second quarter, corner Nathaniel Conway managed to return an interception off of Jericho Swayne just before half-time, and Roscoe Underhill connected on a 41-yd attempt early in the third to cap off the Bearcats scoring drives in the game. Reviewing where they failed the most in their efforts was their inability to get the passing game started, and I wouldn't be surprised at all to see Leyton return to the starting lineup after Irvin's poor performance; Kelley Johansen really seems set on his zone run playbook revolving around the St.John-Albanson combo at fullback and Rafferty at the runningback position, but in order for that to be successful they have to be able to perform well on quick passes and the play-action, which undoubtedly will be key foci for the team as they head into their third match against University of Lacragos.

Rosalie Towner contributed to this article.

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by **New Gesem** » Sat Mar 04, 2023 3:02 pm

Cui-ui         6  9  7  6  31 
Constantinople 0  3  10 3  16

A weak effort from the ‘rongs against a debutante side, characterized by a poor showing from the offensive line and a porous defense that allowed too many big plays against the team from Gran Saguaro.

Las Ventosas won the opening coin toss and elected to receive, then proceeded to march eighty yards in an opening drive that needed a goal-line stop from Johann Vincent to save the ‘rongs from a seven-point deficit inside of two minutes. Receiving the ball at their own twenty-five, the ‘rongs succeeded only in moving backwards before punting. The two teams would change possession several times in the first quarter, but only the Ventosas would capitalize, with an impressive fifty-four yard field goal.

After settling for a single field goal in the second half, Coach Wilkins pulled senior quarterback Joshua Gonzales at halftime in favor of walk-on freshman Randy Collins. Collins made a few mistakes, including a pick-six that extended the Ventosas’s lead to 22-6 at one point, but he also scored the game’s only touchback, on a flea-flicker play that would have been panned had it not ended in the end zone.

Wilkins in his post-game presser commended the effort of his defense while saying that his starting quarterback situation was “in the air” for next weeks’ home matchup versus domestic rivals Alexandroupolis, presently undefeated and sitting at the top of the Boreal Division. All eyes will be on Alexandroupolis next Saturday as the ‘rongs look to avenge their loss in the GCAA domestic semifinals against Alexandroupolis.

by **South Newlandia** » Sat Mar 04, 2023 4:30 pm

The weather, the Egrets rain on Checkerboard night in Istria

When the Blue Thunder announced Checkerboard Night for their noon game against Ratzupalfu, they surely didn’t imagine the non-Blue Thunder to show up. That’s exactly what happened, though, with Moravica hit by a storm on the Friday before the game. The lightning and thunder had passed by kickoff, but the pouring rain remained, turning the usually fantastic ULI field into quite questionable turf. This would be conditions the Egrets would feel right at home in, with a healthy drizzle literally pouring on throughout the game.
Of course, this plainly worked in the advantage of the Egrets. It’s a simple result of roster construction – the Blue Thunder may have a pretty solid run-game, too, but Vavayavich was effectively wasted with passing a very difficult endeavour, even without accounting for her poor receiving room dropping another dud. The bigger problem for ULI was the defense, with their 2-4-5 defense struggling to get much push against the run, with the pass-defense oriented unit struggling to change gears to slow down Zamandi Ayana. The Banijan back racked up 167 yards on the ground, with the five different backs on the roster all having at least one carry, too. The three seniors on the offensive line, in a formation that also had a fullback on the field for the majority of snaps, had their way with the struggling Blue Thunder defensive front. Whenever they sold out to stuff the run, it left them exposed to play action, such as Kasozi Wampona tossing his first career touchdown pass to a wide-open Romeo Carl in the second quarter.
At the same time, the Egrets were able to contain the ULI run game better, at least slightly. With a 4-3 front literally designed to slow down the run, Darrell Jackson still had a pretty good game, managing over 100 yards rushing as well, but he ultimately lagged about a yard per carry behind Ayana. Nellie Griffin especially had a great day slowing down her countryman, with the junior linebacker logging eight tackles, and, equally importantly, not missing a single one.
Of course, this was only enough to make this a relatively close game, with the Blue Thunder still having home advantage and a significant talent gap on their side. The big difference ultimately came on special teams, with a Lukasz Matusz punt return for 57 yards setting the Egrets up with an easy red zone touchdown in the third quarter, and el-Mady putting a fourth-quarter 48-yard field goal that would’ve given the Blue Thunder a late lead just a but outside. The Egrets capitalised with a touchdown that made it a nine-point game, just about sealing the deal.

Ratzupalfu and Loyola-Istria will be heading into national rivalry road games next, and both are entering them as an underdog. While the Egrets had little playoff aspriations to begin with, the Blue Thunder are in real trouble, with the worst possible start through two games, with the tougher parts of the season still on the schedule.

ULI   10   0   7   7   24
RUoN   3  14   9   7   33

by **TJUN-ia** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 9:53 am

The NSCF is back and last week it was a good start all around as both of TJUN-ia's schools started their campaigns with a win. That will certainly boost the confidence across the board, but both teams knew they had to push on. So how did Week 2 go?

The Trent State Feathercaps clutched out a walk-off triumph over UCBP last week and while Johnny Bridgeford was certainly delighted with how that game ended, he did feel as though things certainly could've been better in certain departments. It would be the turn of the Mount Winston Diamond Hogs to visit the Horseshoe and this game would show everyone just what they were about and what needed to be improved upon heading into the short trek next week. MWU did manage a TD and the PAT after that but other than that, this game was basically our from the off and TSU just played a pretty good game of football. Jason Steels managed to claim 4 TDs on this day, with 2 each going to Yurilka Zelinskaya and Catherine Alcaraz-Cortéz, and while Eleonora "Firefeet" Scafakou could only manage 3/4 on the day, 27-7 was still a good performance in order to go to 2-0 on the year.

Meanwhile, the Green City Royal Eagles made a statement on intent with their 50-6 win in Week 1, but the opening road trip wasn't over yet and up next was a trip to Jacob F Gleason Field to face the UCBP Warriors. Considering the manner in which they lost over in Notts, Paul Abdullahi was expecting a fightback with the crowd at their backs...but he also knew that his team had some great weapons at its disposal and he hoped that what they would cook up would be enough for the dub. UCBP certainly did come out fighting as Neal Antonelli scored 3 TD (1 each to Maurice Carlson and Terry Kennedy, with the other a QB sneak) with Greg Mead going 2/2 on PATs and a QB sneak for a 2PC. As for GCU, their play ended up being too hot to handle as Alisha Obi Michel continued to show her work with 6 TDs on the day (2 each for Harrison Jeffers and Mercy Oshoala, 1 each for Carlton McSwane and Stella Oshoala) with a 2PC via QB sneak and a 5/5 performance on PATs by Glory Oparanozie. It simply was a complete performance and just like that, GCU had a 43-22 statement win to take back home.

GCU's first home game at The Palace will also be TSU's first away game...which can only mean one thing. TSU had the worse season last year, but they managed to take the Earth Trophy late in the year...and GCU wants it back. So the 2-0 Feathercaps must travel to the 2-0 Green Eagles for Earth Trophy VII, where both the Trophy itself and a 3-0 record will be on the line.
Someone had to win and someone has to lose. No matter what, expect fireworks in Garin Kore.

TSU SCHEDULE (MINERAL Conference, Mineral Division + 3 Non-Conf)
Week 1: vs UCBP (CBP) W 39-36 (1-0)
Week 2: vs Mount Winston (GEM) W 27-7 (2-0)
Week 3: @Green City (TJU) - Earth Trophy VII
Week 4: vs Alexandropolis (NGS)
Week 5: vs UPAM-Boca Rana (SGU) - Homecoming
Week 6: @Constantinople (NGS)
Week 7: @UPR Cui-ui (SGU)
---------------------Mineral Division Rematches---------------------
Week 8: @UCBP (CBP)
Week 9: @Mount Winston (GEM)
Week 10: vs Green City (TJU) - Earth Trophy VIII
Week 11: Conference Championship Week
---------------------Non-Conference---------------------
Week 12: vs Elephant Valley (SNL)
Week 13: @Thereisnogodistan CC (NGD)
Week 14: vs Maximus Rochester Institute (PFA) - Senior Day

GCU SCHEDULE (MINERAL Conference, Mineral Division + 3 Non-Conf)
Week 1: @Mount Winston (GEM) W 50-6 (1-0)
Week 2: @UCBP (CBP) W 43-22 (2-0)
Week 3: vs Trent State (TJU) - Earth Trophy VII
Week 4: vs Constantinople U (NGS)
Week 5: vs UPR Cui-ui (SGU)
Week 6: @UAlexandropolis (NGS)
Week 7: @UPAM-Boca Rana (SGU)
---------------------Mineral Division Rematches---------------------
Week 8: vs Mount Winston (GEM) - Homecoming
Week 9: vs UCBP (CBP)
Week 10: @Trent State (TJU) - Earth Trophy VIII
Week 11: Conference Championship Week
---------------------Non-Conference---------------------
Week 12: @Upper Westside (STK)
Week 13: @Bowerstone (ATH)
Week 14: vs Felswyr State (CMT) - Senior Day

by **Drawkland** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 4:58 pm

Where Are The Gladiators?
Cavsar Football has lots of questions to answer this season

Welcome back to the Cavsar Chronicle. My name is Phillip Copper, I'm a sophomore journalism major, and I've been selected to carry on the football column of the Chronicle after the graduation of our beloved Dawson Rogers. Personally, this is a dream come true. I'm sure every young child's aspiration is to be forced to cover a mediocre college football team which, despite its teasingly good potential, always manages to snatch defeat from the jaws of victory. Haha ... I got you going, didn't I? Under the Copper regime, the Chronicle will remain positive to the plights of the Gladiator football team, no matter what's thrown at us! I'm tired of the same doomer rhetoric that spawns in our fanbase and festers under the narratives of our haters. It's time that we enter a new age, one of optimism and cheer!

To start the season, the eyes of Cavsar faithful turned to Logan Oakley. The novatim recruit got a couple starts last year and played well for a guy in his first season as a college athlete. Now, the widely-touted prospect is a freshman who looks primed to take the starting job for good, despite the fact that he was allegedly outplayed by Lewis in training camp this season. Oakley is a tall guy with an average arm at best it seems, but his accuracy and ability to read defensive coverage is very good for his age. Still, his tenacity at the position and chemistry with the rest of the offense has moved head coach Scott Linhart to put him at the helm, at least for the start of the season.

Obviously the beginning of this season didn't go the way any of us hoped. Getting swept by the Chromatik schools is never a fun time, but we can take much solace in the fact that Sadeg State didn't do any better. The first two games were mostly hallmarked by an offense that couldn't stay on the field when it counted, and a defense that paid the price for it. Week 1 seemed to be a coming-back party for the Gladiators, with Oakley throwing for over 300 yards and two scores. The Cavsar running game was mostly absent though, and late in the game, consecutive giveaways on offense gave Staramara Tech short field and easy scoring drives relying on a tough run game. The lost drives late in the game and no recovery in sight shut up the Cavsar offense for the remainder of the game, now that the Lava had a double digit lead.

Week 2 was a little better defensively, but the offense took a large step back. The running game was still not moving the chains, and a reliance on the passing game too early gave Felswyr State an opportunity to sell out on the pass and kill several Cavsar drives before midfield without taking up much clock. The Firehawks did their job with ball possession, scoring late in the first quarter to get on the board first. Oakley would score the first Gladiator touchdown at home this season, with a clever QB draw play on 2nd and Goal in the second quarter. He would attempt a pass to Sylvan Magee for the two pointer but sail it wide. The offense was seemingly comatose the rest of the game, falling behind the chains often and rarely getting the ball downfield. Late in the third quarter, Oakley would get a deep ball to Noel Ward to score the second touchdown of the game, but that two-point conversion was ill-fated too. Oakley attempted a read-option run, only to fumble the ball on the handoff and knee it forwards towards the goal line. Bryan Hilbrand, the defensive tackle, scooped up the ball, but jumped a few steps back to avoid getting tackled in the scrum of lineman. Unfortunately for Hilbrand, he was tackled from behind by Magee in the end zone. Because he recovered the fumble on the one yard line and moved back, it was counted as a one-point safety in Cavsar's favor. It was a very odd play,* and perhaps the most exciting of the game for Cavsar.

The Cavsar home leg against Sadeg State will prove to be paramount for this campaign, for both teams. Both us and Sadeg State took early losses to the Chromatik schools. We both sit tied for last in the division with an 0-2 record. While the next 4 straight games against the Equinox division should be dogwalks that get us back over .500 regardless of this coming match in Cavsar, this win could prove to be vital. It's clear that the Chromatik schools are not going to slow down. If we have any chance of making a run at the conference title, we need to be spotless from here on out. That may not be likely, but we can only take that dream one game at a time ... and the next game is this one against Sadeg State.

So Oakley has been decent behind center to start the season, though the win column doesn't show it. How about the performance of the rest of the team? Even in the age of Proudfoot's dominance, he was helped by his excellent supporting cast. The QB question will always be on everyone's mind, but the rest of the roster is what makes the wins happen. Henry Spears has entered his senior campaign totally flat, rushing for only 105 yards over the first two games. His lack of production on the ground has been part of why the Cavsar offense and defense has been struggling. There's a couple younger guys in the running back room, Luke Harlan and Luca Denman, but we're not sure they're going to be able to fully produce. Perhaps they can get more reps against the Equinox division teams and build some experience?

In the receiving end of things, Daniel Beckett has been doing the work. He caught two touchdown passes in week 1, both long bombs over 40 yards (about the edge of Oakley's range). He didn't find paydirt week 2, but he did still break 50 yards receiving and was one of the few bright spots on offense that game. With the exception of Beckett and tight end Sylvan Magee, this is a very young group of receivers that still have to come into their own. Offensive coordinator Mick Melville has been trying new things every week to find a niche for all the underclassman receivers, but the progress is a little slower than we've hoped. Logan Oakley is a guy who can find the right holes and throw the right receivers open, so it's important that Melville and Linhart put together a scheme that gets receivers open and moves the chains.

The defense has been ... well, let's just say it hasn't been living up to potential. The defensive line features 3 seniors and a well-weather junior, and were expected to be the driving force behind the Gladiator defense. For many years, the D-line has been the most crucial part of Cavsar's defense unit, and the expectation seemed to be in place for this year. So far it's been a mixed bag. Staramara Tech's running backs ran rampant in week one, but Felswyr State's passing game was somewhat stymied by the solid pass rush. Considering how the rest of the D is performing, we're going to give the D-line a pass here.

The secondary, meanwhile, has been the weakest spot. Artenio Marley is the only upperclassman starter, with most of the defensive back unit being made up of underclassmen or seniors that aren't performing at the level we need. This group is raw and inexperienced, no matter how much potential talent they have. The roughness around the edges have been really apparent in the first two weeks, and you know the Skyhawks will be drawing up a lot of deep shots. If the defense is going to improve, defensive coordinator Austin Lewis will need to find a way to tighten up this secondary.

There is a lot to look at in these next few games. Again, following the Sadeg State game, we have four tune-up games to get things into place. It's unfortunate that we'll be behind the curve if we're going to gun for a conference title, but perhaps something clicks and falls into place during the Equinox Division slate. Maybe the offense finds a scheme that works, maybe Henry Spears or one of the Luc boys will get going on the ground. Maybe the secondary gels, the defensive line blossoms, and everything comes together. It's more possible than you may think! Let's see the Gladiator faithful sell out Roy Memorial this weekend and grind the Skyhawks into the dust. Go Glads!

Written by Phillip Copper

by **Valanora** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 6:06 pm

Valanora Times
Ebb and Flow

5. Mar Sara Tech (Valanora) - Zephyr
The Raiders hold up to scrutiny in their away trip to Anthor to take on Bowerstone, comfortably defeating the Bobcats far easier than the Rockets had done in the previous week. Where the Rockets only had a single point victory, the Raiders walked out as thirteen point victors against one of the former major players of the Zephyr. If the Raiders are already in top form, it is going to be hard for anyone else in the conference to really hold a candle to them, though Raynor will definitely believe they will have that capability when the Raiders visit Raynor City. We do know that the Battle for the Royal Saber typically is dictated by whoever does the best in their home game, with the Raiders having edged out the Rockets two seasons ago for the first time in recent memory. Right now though, they are the clear favorites for the Zephyr despite the season that they spent away from the competition.

4. Green City University (TJUN-ia) - Mineral
The Royal Eagles followed up their impressive first game with a trip to the Commonwealth to take on the University of the Commonwealth in Baker Park. If this was supposed to be the real test to see whether Green City was a pretender or a contender then it was a test that they absolutely passed with flying colors and then some. The Warriors were helpless to keep the Royal Eagles from scoring whenever they wanted to as they won by twenty-one points against the Warriors to send a clear message to the rest of the NSCF that they are no fluke team. Like the Raiders, if they are able to keep this sort of performance through the season, they are going to be a team that no one will want to get paired up against in the playoffs.

3. Staramara Tech (Chromatika) - Horizon
The Skyhawks of Sadeg State are certified NSCF royalty and yet the Lava seemed in total control when the two faced off in Chromatika. While the scoreline is perhaps a bit closer than what the showcase actually represented, only a twenty to ten victory in the end, they showed the sort of quality that we should expect from the team that made the championship game last season. Like the rest of the teams on this list, currently the sky looks to be the limit for the Lava and there is no reason to believe that they are going to be slowing down any time soon, but on any given saturday an unexpected result can pop up and that's what they need to be guard for through the rest of conference play.

2. Northern Moravica (Banija) - Celestia
Another week and it is another supremely impressive showing from our neighbors to the northeast (and northwest to if you include Sabine and Caddonia!) who traveled to Elephant Valley University for a road test. The Cougars defense smothered the Red Elephants with only allowing a single field goal in the game while the Cougars offense was good enough to put twenty-six on the scoreboard for an outstanding win on the road. While Loyola-Istria is floundering with a two loss start to the season, the Cougars are absolutely flourishing as the premier program in Banija right now and will no doubt be impressing the recruits who want to go to Banija to lean towards them over the Blue Thunder.

1. Richardson University (Ranoria) - Big Eight
While it is easy to put the champions at the top and keep them there until they lose, they do still have to earn that spot in their performance in the victories. A shutout win on the road is a great way to do that, even if one might be able to question the actual competitiveness of the Big Eight this season, but that is beyond the point. We have seen in the past teams that were absolutely dominating their conferences not be able to put up this sort of performance, getting a shutout on the road is supremely impressive and clearly reinforces the idea that Richardson is just a step above the rest. Can they finally get the monkey off their back that is Cold Hill or will their Ranoria rivals be the ones to topple them off their throne?

by **Nagarythe** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 7:07 pm

After slaying the four demonlords and in turn driving their armies away and off the continent of Althion, peace settled over the continent. Yet this was not a tranquil peace where the elves felt like a victory had been created, multiple cities, groves, and temples had been sacked, desecrated, or corrupted by the demonic invasion of their lands. Their people had to learn how to wage war to fight for their very survival, there was no way that they could return to the lives that they had before the invasion had occurred, their entire world view had been shifted and warped by the events that had taken place. Temporary happiness was found here and there but the scale of loss was unlike anything the elves could have ever imagined before and the peace that fell over the continent felt more like a funeral shawl cast over a widow too soon departed from their partner. The magic portal that had allowed the demonic forces to invade Althion in the first place still remained open and excess magical energy continued to flow into the world like a rampage, disturbing the balance that there once was.

Althion sat upon one of the fault lines that magic widely traveled en masse on the continent and the overflow of the magical energies effected the elves and the lands on the continent more than the rest of the world. Wives and maidens were giving birth to mutated and deformed children, some coming out shaped as beasts or monsters much like the corrupted beasts that they had defeated during the demonic invasion. Several of the mountains across the continent seemed to shimmer and change colors at night, glittering with the magical radiation spreading throughout the lands. In the dark places on the continent at night howling and cackling that sounded far too much like the demons and their commanders could be heard on the air. The mages with the gift of foresight seemed to lose themselves in the avalanche of magical energy, driven to madness by portents that made no sense to them. The chief mage at the Temple of Amanrythe went so far as to pluck out his own eyes to try and stop the visions of the future he was seeing, but would find no relief in the extreme measure. So driven to madness was he that he refused to speak even to his most close of friends about the visions that he had been witness to.

It was during this time that Atheron visited the court of the Celestial Queen, Astria. Atheron was a striking figure, clad in the finest of all the armors that the craftsmiths had been able to forge in their haste, with the tales of his victory preceding his arrival in the court of the Queen. Little is known about the actual courtship between the two, but the two would marry shortly after Atheron's arrival to Astria's court. Despite the circumstances surrounding them and ongoing on the continent, the pair seemed to have had a happy marriage. The first of the children wound up being twins, with one son and a daughter, Moriat and Yvonne. Keeping in the traditions of the elves, Yvonne would become the next Celestial Queen as the position was hereditary from mother to daughter. As the Celestial Queen, Astria was the co ruler of the elves to the High King, equal in power but beholden to the High King's commands and it was position held until death when it passed to their daughter, such that a Celestial Queen could potentially serve with many High Kings. However the horns of war were sounded once more, as demons and their legions began to pour forth from the magical portal once more.

by **Cardenao** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 7:35 pm

((AI made image etc))

Tim Tantrum: “Gooooood evening Cardenao! Welcome to another edition of Inside Cardenao Sports where we go…”

Fred Friday: “Inside Cardenao Sports! My name is Fred Friday…”

TT: “And mine is Tim Tantrum!”

FF: “Tonight it is purely College Football baby, and we are here for it. As you all know, the 28th season of college football has kicked off and it is a tale of two teams for the Cardenaoan represenatatives.”

TT: “Yeah Fred that is a good way to put it, one team living the high life, one team living the low down dirty, punched in the face then had a kidney stolen sort of life. It’s BSU vs New Cardonia State coming up later tonight.”

FF: “That’s right Tim, it’s the Broncos vs the Gladiators and a win for either team could be season defining. For the BSU Broncos, they’re galloping into this match at the top of the Evermore Division having won both games, while the New Cardonia State Gladiators come in at the bottom of the Evermore still seeking their first win. Time, tell everyone about the two team’s offense?”

TT: “Absolutely Fred, absolutely. Well the Broncos are the fifth highest scoring team in all of college football, with star quarterback Bobby Dials finding the right number every night for his team. The 81 points have come in a variety of different ways, touchdown passes, runs, a safety, some field goals, PATs; it's been great to see. No defensive scores just yet but as a coach you probably hesitate to build your gameplan around your defense scoring the ball, so that’s good!

Now, New Cardonia, the Gladiators, they have definitely been struggling to put points on the board, only getting 36 points after the first two matches of the season. Those have come primarily from the ground game, with the Gladiators loving to smash and grind their way down the field and over the goal line. If they want to improve, I mean it’s pretty clear, start scoring the football! Branch out a bit, everyone can see you can run the ball and run it decent, that’s fine, but you’re not running so great you’re getting over the line and winning games so I’m wondering when they’re gonna start switching things up. Attack from the air a little bit, switch things up, run the option to give yourselves options on the play. I’m not a coach though, merely a former star player myself, so what do I know! Mr. Fred Friday, give us your insight into the two team’s defense.”

FF: “I would love to, Tim. Looking at LeBois Santura University, the Broncos have allowed opposing teams to put up 32 points, not the most ideal but with how highly they’ve been scoring the ball I’d argue it doesn’t much matter how many points they’re giving up. Two wins from two says it all but all the same, you imagine coach Steve Valentine will be working with his defensive coordinator to shore things up on that end.

For the New Cardonia State Gladiators, it’s pretty easy to say they’ve been shite defensively. The 85 points they’ve allowed over the first two games is good enough for second worst in all of college football, which makes my review here pretty easy. Simply be better, stop giving up so many easy passing touchdowns and start applying more pocket pressure. Everything you learn not to do in high school ball is what the Gladiator’s are doing this season, which, as a fan, is obviously not what you want to see from your team.

Overall, both teams could stand to shore up on defense if they want to push forward with strength into the next phase of the season. Tim, I got a question for you buddy.”

TT: “[laughs]Alright then what is it?”

FF: “Tonight’s game, who you got? BSU Broncos or New Cardonia State Gladiators?”

TT: “A good question but for me? It’s an easy one, Broncos country, Let’s Ride!”

FF: “[laughs]Imagine unironically saying "Broncos country, Let's Ride" but yeah it's hard to argue with your prediction. Look, I agree for sure, the Broncos are everyone’s favorites and sure they’re my favorites too, but if the Gladiators can shake things up a little bit with their gameplan while hitting their strengths as a running team, New Cardonia could make it a fun game.”

TT: “Well that’s all the time these lousy folks are giving us but we’ll see you after the game! Once again, I’m Tim Tantrum…”

FF: “And I’m Fred Friday! Peace out!!”

by **Gran Saguaro** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 7:56 pm

Cresta Verde, Calixtia
Comodoro Mendoza High School
López Family Field
Sideline
Two Days After UPAM's Loss at Home

THE DUSTY FARMING TOWN of Cresta Verde (pop. 12,374) lies in the state of Calixtia, Gran Saguaro's agricultural breadbasket and the heart of Saguareño gridiron. It is tucked into a bowl-shaped valley twelve miles from the city of Ludwig, a major guava producer and the location of a domestic airport, through which a troupe of UPAM coaches arrived to watch an exciting high school prospect.

"He's undiscovered." The UPAM coaches stood on the sideline of Comodoro Mendoza's football/gridiron/discus/field hockey pitch, a gaggle of quarter-zips and skunk-adorned visors. "Nobody has come to see him, nobody has visited him...shame, you know, because my son is so good. He throws, he runs, he jumps — you see Timo jump? Oh, this team...they will win state championships this year, and then everybody will come here. You will wish you recruited him then...this is your chance to get ahead now."

The only one not wearing a branded quarter-zip was Romaire McCork — a short, heavy man who spoke with a thick accent. He wore green cargo shorts and a red t-shirt that said "¿Lo entendiste?" and featured a picture of a man's face twisted into a questioning expression. The elder McCork stood with the UPAM delegation on the sidelines, holding a cardboard tray of coffee cups and talking up his son. "Good GPA, I'm very proud of him. He takes advance classes. Runs track — the hurdles, and sprinting. Starts as quarterback for three years. Very hard worker, helps me even in my automotive shop when he gets home late from practice and he is tired and sore."

Everesto Cintrón — assistant Head Coach of the Zorrillos, who imagined himself to have better things to do with his time, flipped through a clipboard that contained the young prospect's report.

_{TIMOTEO G. MCCORK
5'11 1/2. 178 lbs | Cresta Verde, CLX, ES Comodoro Mendoza}

"He's small," said Cintrón. Paperclipped to the report was Timo's yearbook picture; he was skinny, pimpled, bad acne. On the field, the Comodoro Mendoza "Cocks" were warming up. Timo performed a throwing drill — he snapped the ball to himself, stutter-stepped while he swiveled his body as if to search for open players, and then shot a pass to the wide receiver running a post route. "Gil, bring him over."

McCork looked less than his almost-six-feet in person. He was slight and lean, with thinly coiled hair and a distracted gaze. He seemed comically swallowed up by his pads, over which was stretched a green #4 jersey. "I'm Coach Cintrón," said Cintrón. "I work for UPAM. You know where that is, right? Yeah. It's in San Armando. I don't usually go to these things..." Cintrón shot a look at González, his Chief of Recruiting, who forced him to come, "...but if I'm being honest, I've heard a lot about you. That's why they dragged me out here, I need to watch you play." Cintrón flipped through the report. "Now, as I'm sure you know, UPAM is not only a top academic institution, but an athletic powerhouse as well, with a storied —"

"Didn't you lose."

"Er..."

"You just lost to Alexandroupolis. I watched it. It was a rough game."

"Well, yes, our team wasn't necessarily at it's best yester—"

"Four interceptions. One sack on them, three sacks on you. Two fumbles."

"Wow, well, yes, that did—"

"And a doinked field goal with two seconds left from 19 yards."

"I...We won the National Brooch last year!"

"And 40% of your offense graduated. You're playing with underclassmen."

"It definitely was not 40%..."

"You have a nice stadium, though. And obviously a nice campus. I'd like to visit."

"Okay, well, see, this is what I'm trying to talk to you about —"

"I've never been to San Armando. I've always wanted to go. I've even been outside Gran Saguaro, to visit my grandparents in the old country, but I've never been to our capital!"

A white school bus pulled into the stadium's parking lot, out of which poured a well-fed squad of gridiron players in white uniforms. "Ludwig Latin," groaned Timo. "Prep school. That one, number 91, the D-End — I hear he paralyzed a kid. Why don't you recruit him?" Timo walked off to rejoin his team.

***

Cocks receive the kickoff. It's a short return. McCork sets up at the 20. First snap is a run — loss of two yards. Second snap, McCork takes it — within seconds the O-Line has fallen apart, and McCork is forced to scramble. He slips through the blitz, tucks in the ball, and he's over the line of scrimmage. A block from his halfback gives him room — he hurdles a linebacker — races past the first down — no more space to run, three DBs bearing down, Timo hucks it overtop their heads to a Wide Receiver that had finished his curl route a good ten seconds ago and was just standing and watching. The Wide Receiver makes the scooping catch — immediately brought down. 18-yard-gain.

"Oh shit!"

Lined up in an I-Formation: McCork, running-back, running-back. The ball is snapped, a fake handoff — another fake handoff — McCork fakes a deep pass, and keeps the ball — the tight end comes around to trap the DT, and McCork has running room. He snakes into the secondary with a block from the second running back, dodges the same linebacker with a deft spin, and slides for the first down. Cocks at midfield.

Cintrón grabs the report and starts scribbling into it. "Gil, do you see this kid?"

The drive stalls. A bullet pass is overthrown and a swing route results in very little gain. Cocks out of field goal range. McCork took a nasty hit post-pass from #91, and he's shaken. The ball is snapped. His center is shoved over, the blitz is oncoming, O-Line decimated — Timo scrambles again, running backwards, he calls for a block — the line of scrimmage has devolved into chaos, he manages to find his center...to the left of him? Timo laterals the ball, before being slammed by a defender, knocked to the ground. The center is too big for the defense to bring down, he tosses the ball back to McCork, all alone now along the left sideline — off his back foot, Timo hurls the ball deep for a Wide Receiver still chugging along his go route. The ball hangs in the air, then floats downward into the end zone, perfectly in front of the receiver...who promptly drops it.

Romaire McCork on the sideline yells vulgarities at the players. Thankfully he is drowned out by the crowd.

Punt. Cocks will end up losing to Ludwig Latin 42-7.

***

Everesto Cintrón waited outside the back door of the home dressing room for McCork. He eventually came out wearing a faded sweatshirt with an ice pack strapped to his calf.

"You played well."

McCork shook his head and ignored Cintrón, who hurried after him. "You did. Your team sucks. They were really fucking bad. But I saw intangibles on that field which aren't easy to find. You're small, but you used that in your favor. You're fast, and you worked that into your decision-making. I'm impressed. It was almost worth flying out here."

McCork didn't reply. "I talked to your coach. Gave him my information, and he gave me your film."

"You know, it's really weird for a grown man to be following me home."

Cintrón backed away and raised his hands. "I'm just saying. If you ever want to see San Armando...call us. I want you out there before the end of your season, so you can train with our quarterbacks and we can get you in a workout. Think about it."

McCork nodded without saying a word, and he walked away.

by **Ranoria** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 8:31 pm

Ironpeak @ Cold Hill, late 3rd quarter

Benoit Youngblood knew where the ball was going before he even took the snap - did these guys ever learn? Once again, Ironpeak's top corner was playing press coverage on Kasozi Batte, presumably because he didn't want to give the big man room to catch a ball underneath and pick up a head of steam. But considering Batte had already managed a hat trick off of that mistake, this was almost too easy.

Snap, and by the time he got into his drop, Batte had already decked the corner and was off to the races. Youngblood hit his man in stride, and the safety who'd taken a good angle of pursuit planted his feet, expecting the wideout to run into him and go down like everyone else. Or maybe to try an ill-fated juke move and still go down. The problematic Banijan sophomore went a different route, violently extending his hand and stiff arming the safety, never breaking stride and shoving him another fifteen yards into the end zone before finally tossing him aside.

The Buffalo crowd roared their approval as the ever- passionate Batte extended his arms - 49-20. They were just padding stats at this point.

The Race For The Big 8 Begins With A Duel Of Champions In Dietrich Stadium

The Governor defense rallies around Packard Goss after he snags an interception

So, who would've guessed? Richardson's defense is allowing 1.5 points per game and Benoit Youngblood is coming off a record-setting seven touchdown performance, breaking the program record against NSCF or domestic competition. And he wanted everyone to know it, calling out to his coach after that last one, "Would you look at me? I'm setting records!" The big bad wolf was a recipient of four of those, Kasozi Batte absolutely rolling through an overmatched Ironpeak Institute secondary in a big bounce back game after catching just two balls in the team's opener. The four scores tied the Buffalo program record for receiving touchdowns in a game, and broke the program's high at least against NCSF competition.

In fact, hanging sixty points on Ironpeak was such a dominant performance that Buffalo HC Chris Dale broke one of his cardinal rules and benched Youngblood going into the fourth quarter - the last time the Buffalo have subbed out a quarterback in a winning situation was when Diamond Rhine 'allegedly' played a game under the influence of LSD.

"It's a special circumstance," Dale said after the game, "And Viktor Rowles is a special player. We want to make sure he gets snaps as early and often as possible." Indeed, the youngster shined in his Buffalo debut, leading three more scoring drives - two field goals and his first career touchdown pass going to fellow Chromatik Enox Silverman. It should be noted that Cold Hill's kicker missed a pair of PATs throughout the game.

On the other side of the spectrum, Richardson pitched their first of likely several shutouts this season, putting an Eastern Ploska University offense that gave Cold Hill all they wanted on ice. Whether it was Malchiel Lukiwiya and Shean Eckert combining for three sacks or Takeuchi Ichiko keeping up his momentum from last season - he hasn't allowed a catch through two weeks - this defense has lived up to its billing so far. It helps when you have a running back dictating the pace of the game of course. Rylan Rodgers Jr stacked 145 rushing yards on top of his 115 in week one, and another pair of touchdowns to boot as he gets off to a rocket start this season. So far, he's absolutely looked the part of a bellcow back. Isaiah Hunter has only been asked to throw the ball 26 times this season, as the Governors have been able to establish leads early and - if you couldn't tell by their 3 points allowed so far - they haven't had much trouble keeping them. The defense has now forced twice as many turnovers (6) as they have allowed points (3) so far in this campaign. Shocking.

Of course, they've been given the chaff of the Big 8 so far, if they'd really struggled, it would've been a red flag. Cold Hill scored more than 1/3 of the points Richardson allowed last season, playing them in 3 of their 16 total contests, including a 42 points losing effort in the semifinals. They swept the defending champions in conference play as well, with Cold Hill coming into the year as Big 8 champions and Richardson bearing the crown of the entire NSCF.

In other words - Richardson may have bragging rights over every other team in this tournament, but the Buffalo know they can play with them. And rather than teams who haven't had the opportunity to attack high-level foreign recruits, Cold Hill has the talent on both sides of the ball to run this back. At wide receiver, they're stacked - Kasozi Batte is coming off a four touchdown showing and seems to have a psychic link with Youngblood with the way these two have been able to improvise. He's all of 6'5" and two hundred thirty five bounds, and somehow still has the ability to cook corners when he turns on the afterburners. Darin Sundström gas some of the best hands in the NSCF, and the experience to read and piece apart zone defenses given time. Throw in a 6'7" Enox Silverman, who's flashed his high ceiling already this season, and you've got a receiving core positioned to maximize the output of the best quarterback in the game.

Of course, if there's a team with the cornerback room to match, you don't have to look far. Takeuchi Ichiko, Richardson's top man, was an NSCF defensive player of the year candidate last season. His backup Packard Goss unseated Karl Fortis, who started for that historically dominant defense last season. Oh right, and Fortis is still manning up the #3 spot. That's one hell of a room alone, but true freshmen Munanire Tembo and Rodney Knight have gotten snaps as well, and are incredibly talented young players. Room to throw will be minimal, and with the interior pressure brought by Lukiwiya, this is the team with the best shot of anyone to slow down Youngblood.

"I've seen a lot of great quarterbacks at Cold Hill in my time," Kasen Harrowitz said, eyes flicking to the clock to see how much longer contractually obligated to speak to press, "But Youngblood might even be better than that other guy. I'm confident in our game plan and more confident in our players, we'll see how it plays out Saturday."

Strong words coming from the Governor HC to compare Youngblood to 2x NSCF champion Deondre Rhine, but perhaps apt. They call him the King of the Hill for a reason, after all. Or the Benolution. Or just Beno.

Regardless, this game is going to have immense conference championship implications, and the winner will certainly have earned themselves an easier path to a high playoff seed, though the Governors earning a first round bye shows that its not an insurmountable loss.

by **Chromatika** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 9:39 pm

Battle for the Eternal Flame Looms as Firehawks, Lava Complete Domination of Drawkland

Two weeks in, and Chromatika is flying high this NSCF season.

With Staramara Tech sporting s 20-10 win over Sadeg State and Felswyr State handling Cavsar 22-13 on the road, both Chromatik schools turned in solid performances by their defenses and a decent enough performance by their offense to go a combined 4-0 against Drawkish opposition to stay atop the Starlight Division, heading to a pivotal showdown at the Firehawks' Roost.

Felswyr State completed a road sweep of Drawkland with a 22-13 win that saw newcomer Ivan Homer complete five field goals. Though Quarterback Kadesh Odika continued his early season struggles - Sydney Thomas scored the only touchdown for Felswyr State, while the Banijan Junior went 15-of-27 for 201 yards, no touchdowns, and no interceptions - the defense stepped up, only allowing Cavsar one touchdown, a safety, and a field goal.

Freshman phenom cornerback Lisa Bonsoon snagged her first interception of her collegiate career, the duo of Sizo Ashenafi and Aubin Rouzet combined for seven sacks, and Felswyr State just did not let Cavsar breathe.

In Staramara, the Lava only allowed ten points to Sadeg State while pounding out 198 yards on 34 carries between Gabriele Ziegler and Isaga Duhaga, both running backs hitting the end zone as Ziegler showed that she can be more than just a shifty receiving back, contributing 71 of those yards on the ground.

Lucius Agot was a terror, with eighteen tackles and two forced fumbles. This Lava defense is no where as good as it was last season, but they've done their best to remain opportunistic, and it's paying off.

What it all means is that the rivalry between Staramara Tech and Fleswyr State - christened The Battle for the Eternal Flame this season - will have raised stakes of deciding who will be the forerunner after three games. The Eternal Flame Trophy, made by Quebecois trophy manufacturer Harriman-Namgoong Company, will be given to whoever wins the game - with a chance of defending it on the return leg in Staramara. After both games are complete, the trophy will remain with the team that either goes 2-0 or wins the Head-to-Head Point Differential. If the two teams meet in the playoffs, that willa lso have the Eternal Flame Trophy on the line.

Where does the all-time series stand?

NSCF 25, Matchday 2: Felswyr State University 20-22 Staramara Tech University
NSCF 25, Matchday 7: Staramara Tech University 32-0 Felswyr State University
NSCF 26, Matchday 5: Staramara Tech University 7–13 Felswyr State University
NSCF 26, Matchday 10: Felswyr State University 16–6 Staramara Tech University
NSCF 27, Matchday 3: Staramara Tech University 36–28 Felswyr State University
NSCF 27, Matchday 10: Felswyr State University 24–23 Staramara Tech University

The all-time series is tied, which is ridiculous given FSU's track record against other schools. The Lava hae always played them tough, and will be hoping to keep the streak going. The home team has won four of six matchups, so Felswyr State is favored, but not by much.

"They've proven to be one of the hardest opponents to prepare for," admitted Naia Curentino of the Lava, "They play fundamentally sound ball and don't take too many risks. We will need to hold onto the ball for stretches to win, and that can sometimes be our struggle."

"It's time to prove that the scales have really turned on our favor," quipped Isidora Noles of the matchup, "The days of Felswyr State getting all the attention are over - there is another player in town, and we have no intention of playing second fiddle anymore."

Expect a sold out crowd in Felswyr for the first Battle for the Eternal Flame.

by **Utahn Theocratic Republic** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 9:51 pm

Blake Zuercher PT 1.

After a long wait, the BYU Miners finally won their first game ever with a blow-out win, winning 50-13 against New Cardonia State. Thanks to the stellar performance of Quarterback Blake Zuercher. His amazing skills and leadership on the field were celebrated by students and fans alike as they exited the field. It was an emotional moment for everyone present as they cheered for Blake's incredible achievement. The victory was a testament to his hard work and dedication to the team, and it will be remembered for years to come.

Although it was an away game, the BYU students and fans showed up in full force to cheer on their team. The atmosphere was electric as the players ran into the locker room yelling and jumping with their teammates. It was clear that this game meant something special to everyone involved, and they were determined to make their presence known. The excitement of the crowd only added to the intensity of the game, as each player gave it their all in pursuit of victory. It would be a huge boost of confidence for the young and fairly new team as they came home with the win for Miner nation.

Blake would stand up on a bench and yell, “We won! And we showed them that BYU is here to stay! We have our fans out there showing up for us! So we gave them a show with this win!” The room would fill with chants of “BYU, BYU, BYU” The players hyped each other up, and then it started to die down. After a few words from their Coach, the players were let loose to unwind, but it was hard when you came off a 50-13 win. Blake would be sitting on a bench with his helmet and gear next to him. Although he was shaking from excitement, he managed to keep calm. As he was alone for a brief moment, he said a quick prayer, and with that, Blake finished changing and joined the team as they headed off to the bus. The next test for BYU would be the University of Kiyokonai Yellowjackets, they were a decent team being in the same boat the miners were in with a 1-1 record but it seems as if their defense needed to be looked at.. And they have this weird idea that Offense and defense have switched roles, but hey if we can come out of this game with a win so be it.

by **Drawkland** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 10:09 pm

Big Eight & Woodlands
Week 3

PLOT TWIST: Drawkland with the first conference cutoff of the window???

BIG EIGHT
Richardson University 14–20 Cold Hill University
Eastern Ploska University 33–55 Ironpeak Institute of Athletics
New Cardonia State 34–16 LeBois Santura University
Bingham Young University 43–23 University of Kiyokonai

# Everless Division                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Cold Hill University               3    3   0   100   51  +49
2 Richardson University              3    2   1    64   23  +41
3 Ironpeak Institute of Athletics    3    1   2    78  116  −38
4 Eastern Ploska University          3    0   3    50  102  −52


# Evermore Division                Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 LeBois Santura University          3    2   1    97   66  +31
2 Bingham Young University           3    2   1   115   75  +40
3 University of Kiyokonai            3    1   2    68  108  −40
4 New Cardonia State                 3    1   2    70  101  −31

WOODLANDS
Koronki University of Technology and Computing 50–7 N&N Palæontological-Centred Research University
The Terrestrial Acclimation Academy 27–10 The Academy of Space
Université du Saguenay 6–31 Université St. Croix
Crown's College 59–13 Crimson Royal University

# Cosmos Division                                  Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Koronki University of Technology and Computing     3    3   0   122   57  +65
2 N&N Palæontological-Centred Research University    3    2   1    56   60   −4
3 The Terrestrial Acclimation Academy                3    1   2    57   61   −4
4 The Academy of Space                               3    0   3    40   97  −57


# Leaders Division                                 Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Université St. Croix                               3    3   0    86   15  +71
2 Université du Saguenay                             3    2   1    50   61  −11
3 Crown's College                                    3    1   2    95   75  +20
4 Crimson Royal University                           3    0   3    16   96  −80

by **United Vietussia** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 10:54 pm

The Vietussian Inquisitor
Honey Badgers start with mixed bag of results to begin NSCF 28 campaign

Despite a comfortable Week 1 win, QB Willie Gordon couldn't will Hankow State to victory in a disappointing Week 2 loss to Upper Westside.

While the Honey Badgers started off their season on the right foot, they lost their balance in Week 2, falling to Upper Westside 37-29. In a game full of defensive miscues and a woeful performance from the offensive line, the Honey Badgers never quite found their footing in a tough road environment, slipping to 1-1 to start their latest campaign. "There's a lot to take from today's game," head coach Lee Chapman remarked. "I don't like to use the word hangover, but it's hard to describe our performance any other way. We've got to clean up the miscues on both sides of the football...these guys are too good to be making these mistakes. That said, it's good to get the rust off now, and I'm hoping it's a wake-up call to the team as we press on."

QB Willie Gordon has been the lone bright spot, picking up right where he left off. With 5 passing TDs and another one with his legs thus far, his command of the offense has only gotten better with time as he looks to steer the Honey Badger offense in the right direction. "There's obviously things we could be doing better," Gordon said, "but I think we're in a great place for this point in the season. The loss hurts, but there's a lot to be excited about, and I think we'll be in great shape once we stop beating ourselves with these mental mistakes."

While the sentiment is great, fans are left wondering how long the rust will last. With a tough interdivision schedule coming up (including dates with Northern Moravica and UL-I), the Honey Badgers may not have much time to smooth out the rough parts of their gameplan. In particular, the defensive side of the football has left a lot to be desired with the Honey Badgers surrendering 57 points in their first two games. With an upcoming home game, defensive coordinator Caleb Franks may have a golden opportunity to solidify his schemes with a brutal interdivision schedule looming.

Also in spite of the great QB play, the offensive line has struggled at protecting the pocket, forcing Willie Gordon into quick throws and making it hard to develop the run game. RB Mark Dyer has largely been stifled this season in what has been a polar opposite start compared to last year's offense. "I won't pretend like it isn't tough when I can't get my legs moving," Dyer said. "But I trust this line, and I'm trusting the process. There's a lot of football left to be played, and I'm only gonna run harder as the season progresses."

Elsewhere, we're left wondering about last season's QB controversy. With Gordon having secured his spot under center, former Honey Badger QB Shane Wolf seems poised to enter the transfer portal fairly soon. While he seemed to be waiting it out to see how the QB situation might go this season, there doesn't appear to be any imminent changes at QB coming, and Wolf's departure seems likely. "I really appreciate the coaches and players here," Wolf said in a recent interview on VSPN, "but frankly, I'm here to win. And if I'm not going to be given the opportunity to do it here, I'm going to go to a university that's willing to give me that opportunity."

Controversially, Wolf was benched after just four games last year after the offense failed to put up more than 21 points in the opening weeks of the season. The decision to start Willie Gordon was widely hailed as one of the best moves made by head coach Lee Chapman last year, as it revitalized the Honey Badger offense en route to a historic debut season. While he showed flashes of greatness, Wolf's ability to command the Honey Badger offense never quite materialized, and he seems positioned to seek new options elsewhere. "While I'm sad to hear about this, I certainly understand why Shane wants to move on," HC Lee Chapman said. "He's a competitor at heart, and I wish him nothing the best if he does decide to eventually move on from Hankow State."

With the win, Upper Westside successfully avenged a 40-17 trouncing from last season at Celebration Field and move into the division lead with interdivision play around the corner. Meanwhile, the Honey Badgers will look to get out of division play without another blemish when they host Universidae de Soria. Ahead of the Battle for the Golden Axe, it's all the more vital that Hankow State uses the home environment to find their stride and avoid any further hiccups if they wish to make an early season statement to the selection committee.

Hankow State University 2023 Schedule:
Week 1: @ Royal Naval Academy W 33-20
Week 2: @ Upper Westside L 29-37
Week 3: vs. Universidade de Soria
Week 4: @ Northern Moravica (Battle of the Golden Axe)
Week 5: @ Elephant Valley
Week 6: vs. Loyola-Istria
Week 7: vs. Ratzupalfu
Week 8: vs. Royal Naval Academy
Week 9: vs. Upper Westside.
Week 10: @ Universidade de Soria
Celestia Conference Championship Game: TBD
Week 11: vs. Frisdrank
Week 12: @ Saguenay
Week 13: vs. Palæontological

by **Banija** » Sun Mar 05, 2023 10:58 pm

Horizon Conference

Matchday 3

Some Frank Sinatra on this beautiful night!

Starlight Division
Sadeg State University Skyhawks (DRK) 34–27 Cavsar University Gladiators (DRK)
Felswyr State University Firehawks (CMT) 45–27 Staramara Tech Lava (CMT)

Starlight Division                          Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Felswyr State University Firehawks (CMT)    3    3   0    87   57  +30
2 Staramara Tech Lava (CMT)                   3    2   1    90   79  +11
3 Sadeg State University Skyhawks (DRK)       3    1   2    61   67   −6
4 Cavsar University Gladiators (DRK)          3    0   3    64   99  −35

Equinox Division
Elanardris Shadow Walkers (NAG) 52–13 Flosfores-Sea Catarina University Stallions (UVA)
Frontier Mechanical & Technical University Roughnecks (SAS) 13–19 University of Frisdrank Bulls (NTR)

Equinox Division                                                Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Elanardris Shadow Walkers (NAG)                                3    3   0   110   48  +62
2 University of Frisdrank Bulls (NTR)                            3    2   1    70   58  +12
3 Frontier Mechanical & Technical University Roughnecks (SAS)    3    1   2    55   57   −2
4 Flosfores-Sea Catarina University Stallions (UVA)              3    0   3    38  110  −72

NSCF 28 - Everything Thread

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