NSCF 26 - Everything Thread

[Chromatika]

Sadeg State University Skyhawks vs. Felswyr State University Firehawks
Firehawks Sweep Skyhawks, Lead Conference

Team                                  1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
Sadeg State University                 7   7   6   7   27   
Felswyr State University              14  10   6  10   40

1Q
13:29 SSU TD - Jim Tacoma 13 yard pass from Anderson Fox (Nat Knox Kick)
10:48 FSU TD - Stan Devlin 21 yard run (Michelle Breille Kick)
06:11 FSU TD - Ulrich Jefferson 16 yard pass from Jonas Odden (Michelle Breille Kick)

2Q
14:01 SSU TD - Augustus Velas 38 yard run (Nat Knox Kick)
10:07 FSU FG - Michelle Breille 47 yard Field Goal
04:28 FSU TD - Nyata Antonucci 23 yard run (Michelle Breille Kick)

3Q
12:01 FSU FG - Michelle Breille 41 yard Field Goal
09:48 SSU FG - Nat Knox 37 yard Field Goal
06:33 FSU FG - Michelle Breille 49 yard Field Goal
02:17 SSU FG - Nat Knox 40 yard Field Goal

4Q
14:19 SSU TD - Gordon Dallas 28 yard pass from Anderson Fox (Nat Knox Kick)
10:02 FSU FG - Michelle Breille 51 yard Field Goal
02:18 FSU TD - Katie Sawyer 66 yard interception return (Michelle Breille Kick)

---

Staramara Tech University vs. Aturim Deephids Stonecutter School
Masakazu, Lava Roll Past Stonecutters

Team                                  1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
Staramara Tech University             21  10  14   7   52
Aturim Deephides Stonecutter School    3   0   0   0    3

1Q
13:29 STU TD - Elfreda Borden 61 yard pass from Haruno Masakazu (James Dior Kick)
10:54 STU TD - Mastaya Vorpen 18 yard interception return (James Dior Kick)
05:31 STU TD - Oswain Callheart 21 yard pass from Haruno Masakazu (James Dior Kick)
02:48 ADS FG - Tungdil Bigfoot 40 yard Field Goal

2Q
12:48 STU FG - James Dior 41 yard Field Goal
00:27 STU TD - Gabriele Ziegler 46 yard pass from Haruno Masakazu (James Dior Kick)

3Q
11:56 STU TD - Lana Rhodes 19 yard run (James Dior Kick)
03:29 STU TD - Lucius Agot 51 yard fumble return (James Dior Kick)

4Q
08:01 STU TD - Haruno Masakazu 3 yard run (James Dior Kick)

[Quebec and Shingoryeo]

Celestia and Zephyr Conference Cutoff.

Matchday 7

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Celestia Conference
Northern Moravica University Cougars (BNJ) 24–0 Northern Dinagat State University Panthers (BAR)
Fair Haven State University Blue Jays (BAR) 10–27 Elephant Valley University Red Elephants (SNL)
University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder (BNJ) 42–27 Ratzupalfu University of Nature Egrets (SNL)

# Celestia Conference                               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Northern Moravica University Cougars                7    6   1   216  171  +45
2 Elephant Valley University Red Elephants            7    5   2   223  143  +80
3 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder            7    4   3   211  162  +49
4 Ratzupalfu University of Nature Egrets              7    4   3   143  135   +8
5 Fair Haven State University Blue Jays               7    1   6   129  204  −75
6 Northern Dinagat State University Panthers          7    1   6    89  196 −107

Zephyr Conference
Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists (NGD) 20–7 MRI Gijikyhandasari Yeraiqhospifasas (PFA)
University of Mancodas Mammoths (PFA) 20–42 Mar Sara Tech Raiders (VAL)
Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns (AFT) 9–30 Raynor University Rockets (VAL)

# Zephyr Conference                                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Mar Sara Tech Raiders (VAL)                           7    7   0   231  133  +98
2 Raynor University Rockets (VAL)                       7    5   2   186  124  +62
3 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns (AFT)                  7    3   4   174  174    0
4 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists (NGD)    7    3   4   158  194  −36
5 University of Mancodas Mammoths (PFA)                 7    2   5   171  145  +26
6 MRI Gijikyhandasari Yeraiqhospifasas (PFA)            7    1   6    69  219 −150

[Ranoria]

They may be pretty, but some of you World Bowlers will understand the fear they inspire. Sequoia and Mineral cutoff!

Mineral Conference

Constantinople University(NGS) 29–6 Badfekna Ssoknar Lanom(EFK)
University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park(CBP) 19–34 Green City University(TJU)
University of Alexandroupolis(NGS) 12–7 Trent State University(TJU)

  Mineral Conference                                    Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Green City University(TJU)                              7    5   2   185  163  +22
2 Trent State University(TJU)                             7    5   2   164  119  +45
3 University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park(CBP)       7    4   3   210  149  +61
4 Constantinople University(NGS)                          7    4   3   117  141  −24
5 University of Alexandroupolis(NGS)                      7    3   4   147  132  +15
6 Badfekna Ssoknar Lanom(EFK)                             7    0   7    59  178 −119

Sequoia Conference

Golden Oak University (UAD) 24–44 Joe Gibbs University (SRZ)
Woodstock University(SRZ) 53–19 The University of the Hampton Cities (HAP)
Silverleaf University Goblins(UAD) 30–3 Upper Westside University(STK)

  Sequoia Conference                             Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Woodstock University(SRZ)                        7    5   2   237  171  +66
2 Joe Gibbs University (SRZ)                       7    4   3   190  144  +46
3 Upper Westside University(STK)                   7    4   3   181  195  −14
4 Golden Oak University (UAD)                      7    4   3   147  159  −12
5 Silverleaf University Goblins(UAD)               7    4   3   160  103  +57
6 The University of the Hampton Cities (HAP)       7    0   7   115  258 −143

[Drawkland]

Big Eight & Woodlands
MD7

Season heating up baby!!! Let's goooooooo!!!!

BIG EIGHT
Swisston City University (KHD) 10–21 Richardson University (RAN)
Cold Hill University (RAN) 12–0 Richmond University (STR)
Kohnhead City University (KHD) 64–23 University of Lekenik (DOT)

  BIG EIGHT CONFERENCE                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Richardson University                    7    7   0   204   94 +110
2 Kohnhead City University                 7    5   2   189   92  +97
3 Cold Hill University                     7    5   2   118   53  +65
4 Swisston City University                 7    3   4    82  121  −39
5 University of Lekenik                    7    1   6   135  253 −118
6 Richmond University                      7    0   7    84  199 −115

WOODLANDS
Université St. Croix (QUE) 34–28 Flores Irdyum National PSEC (UNP)
Natanians and Nosts PCRU (NTN) 19–53 Crown's College (SHM)
Université du Saguenay (QUE) 40–17 HaAkademia HaKrav Shel Milchama (MIL)

  WOODLANDS CONFERENCE                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Université St. Croix                     7    7   0   214  122  +92
2 Crown's College                          7    6   1   290  132 +158
3 Université du Saguenay                   7    4   3   209  169  +40
4 HaAkademia HaKrav Shel Milchama          7    2   5   181  245  −64
5 Natanians and Nosts PCRU                 7    1   6   126  259 −133
6 Flores Irdyum National PSEC              7    1   6   124  217  −93

[Banija]

Horizon Conference

Matchday 7

At the arrival of the seventh cutoff, we must ask, how would you fare if a [ur=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0J2QdDbelmY]7 Nation Army[/url] was holding you back from a NSCF Conference Championship?

Horizon Conference
Staramara Tech University Lava (CMT) 19–17 Hoofstra University Pride (KRD)
Aturim Deephides Stonecutter School Stonecutters (KGS) 23–23 Sadeg State University Skyhawks (DRK) (29–23 OT)
Felswyr State University Firehawks (CMT) 27–26 Cavsar University Gladiators (DRK)

  Horizon Conference                                       Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Felswyr State University Firehawks                        7    6   1   203  126  +77
2 Staramara Tech University Lava                            7    6   1   260  132 +128
3 Cavsar University Gladiators                              7    4   3   200  162  +38
4 Sadeg State University Skyhawks                           7    2   5   173  184  −11
5 Aturim Deephides Stonecutter School Stonecutters          7    2   5    75  210 −135
6 Hoofstra University Pride                                 7    1   6   110  207  −97

[Ranoria]

Richardson Moves To 7-0, Locked And Loaded For Rematch With Kohnhead City


Elliot Roach's career will make Governor runners of old proud - he's already knocking on the door of a 1,000 yard season and is averaging more than one touchdown per game

Richardson is looking like a revitalized squad under Kasen Harrowitz. They haven't had this much buzz around them since their debut in NSCF 16, and maybe not even then. Astrid Verona's already pushing up against her career-best marks now with over eighteen hundred yards on the year and a dozen passing touchdowns, and Elliot Roach continues to eat up yardage with 8 scores on the year. If they can beat Kohnhead City, they'll be on the verge of completing the second ever - and second consecutive - 10-0 season in the Big 8.

It sounds easy. But we're going to explain - at length - why it never is.

It's no stretch to say that the Mighty Eagles have been Richardson's boogeyman since entering the NSCF. One could even argue they're the reason the program has taken just a slight step back, from a regular championship contender to a consistent but relatively unthreatening playoff squad. It all started in NSCF 22, when the Mighty Eagles shocked the world with a 17-6 win over Richardson University in week 5. To take down the reigning Big 8 champions in commanding fashion like that was no small feat, and they proved it was no fluke by marching into Dietrich Stadium and dragging them down 17-13 in Richardson. The sweep helped take Richardson from an 11-2 quarterfinalist to an 8-5 fringe playoff squad.

But they'd get their revenge, or a shot at it. The Governors got one more crack at their newest rivals in the first round of the playoffs...

And talk about dropping an egg. The Mighty Eagles secured the sweep, made sure everyone knew beyond a shadow of a doubt they were here to stay, and sent the Governors packing 10-6. In NSCF 23 they looked a bit better at 10-3 after sweeping their non-conference opponents, but a 51–17 loss to KCU was one of the most devastating defeats in program history, and Richardson was one and done in the playoffs. And in NSCF 24, again suffering a blowout loss to their rivals, they didn't even make the playoffs

NSCF 22 week 5: Kohnhead City University 17–6 Richardson University
NSCF 22 week 10: Richardson University 13–17 Kohnhead City University
NSCF 22, quarterfinals: Kohnhead City University Mighty Eagles  10–6 Richardson University Governors 

NSCF 23 week 3: Richardson University 34–24 Kohnhead City University
NSCF 23 week 8: Kohnhead City University 51–17 Richardson University

NSCF 24, week 1: Kohnhead City University 21–3 Richardson University 
NSCF 24, week 6: Richardson University 10–0 Kohnhead City University 

NSCF 25, week 3: Kohnhead City University 20–21 Richardson University 
NSCF 25, week 8: Richardson University 13–25 Kohnhead City University

NSCF 26, week 3: Kohnhead City University 9–17 Richardson University

Safe to say, Kohnhead City's warpath against Richardson started off totally unprecedented and has resulted in the program taking a hit in overall success. This was a team that held the record for most conference championships in Big 8 history, but has now finished in 3rd place in the conference in four straight seasons as Cold Hill took that mantle from them due to the Mighty Eagles' battering of Richardson. They still retain the record for most in-conference victories in Big 8 history, but only by a slim margin.

So taking into account that NSCF landscape-altering history, some inflammatory comments by former head coach Richard Steinheil before their first matchup in NSCF 23...

"Excuse me, thank you," the head coach, in a rare and bold move, looked directly at the camera, "Next week is a big one. We're going to have a nice welcoming party ready, roll out the red carpet, and we're going to exorcise some demons."

...and the subsequent 51-17 thrashing the Mighty Eagles dished out in week 8 with plenty of moxie...

. . .here were celebrations in the end zone including one where Byron Joseph faked walking down the red carpet which was a shoutout to Steinheil's comments before the week 3 match. . .*

*From Kohnhead media source

...there's a lot of bad blood here. And with Richardson's current core in their prime, they've all had to face their fair share of humiliation against that team. Kaiser Belfort...well he hates everyone, it can't be helped. Astrid Verona has thrown more interceptions against Kohnhead City than against every other NSCF team combined. For a generational talent Gideon Kearse they're a thorn in his side as he tries to lead his team to greatness. Elliot Roach just liked running through people, especially those playing for the premier program of his native country. And Kasen Harrowitz, who's desperately trying to elevate this team back to its former glory and beyond, must win this game to prove that this isn't the same old Governors.

The Mighty Eagles have a history of strong performances in Richardson with a win there as recently as last season and a 3-2 overall record in Dietrich Stadium. Can the Governors buck the trend and get the sweep on their boogeyman for the first time?

Cold Hill's NSCF-Best Defense Forces Four Turnovers, Pitches Third Shutout Of The Season


Senior wideout Heath Heinz after Sterling overthrew him on his lone pass attempt against Richmond. Heinz has been a red zone stud throughout his career, but Cold Hill's stagnant pass attack has left him with just 15 catches for 147 yards and no scores thus far

In NSCF 24, Cold Hill allowed 285 points through 13 games - it was the best defense in program history, both in the prior domestic campaign and in that NSCF season. Good for just under 22 points per game, it was easily the best showing every for an air raid squad.

Then last season, Cold Hill's defense surrendered just 195 points, the best unit in program history at just 15 points per game. On the back of the best secondary in football with first round selections in Agnor Viridian and Koman Tabor along with current stars Proko and Victoria Mio, they went 13-0 and won their first playoff game since winning the NSCF 22 championship. With such a loaded squad, they surrendered just 10 points through eight quarters of playoff football.

Their offense, though, was shutout in that second outing, and they lost in overtime, 6-3. Easily the best defense ever fielded by Cold Hill thrown away by a quarterback that just couldn't get it done.

Well, despite losing Viridian and Tabor, somehow this defense has only improved. They've pitched three shutouts in seven games, and allowed just 53 points over the course of the season so far. But somehow, they've fallen to 5-2, third in the conference standings. Fans had their gripes with previous starter Aurel Strathos, who was turnover prone and ultimately threw away the NSCF 25 semifinal against Northern Moravica, but Robin Sterling has been a different level of incompetent, with almost three times as many turnovers as touchdowns. He was electric at a small school, but at this level, the young man is clearly outclassed.

Chris Dale, left with a shockingly barren quarterback room, has been forced to improvise with a two-QB system and ride Vanorian stud Alexander Østby to try and rest his defense. But while they've won back to back games in this fashion, the Buffalo scored just 12 points against Richmond University - an 0-7 team. Robin Sterling, normally the team's red-zone quarterback, only saw the field once as every scoring drive ended with a Bo-Ah Jang field goal, including a 53 yard bomb in the first quarter. Each of those scoring drives came with prime field position provided by defensive turnovers, with Mio, Rooijackers, and Marcus Blake each recording an interception while Candace Ferrett chipped in with a strip sack.

You want to talk about frustrating your defense? Pitch three shutouts. Then against your toughest two opponents of the season in Kohnhead City and Richardson, allow 19 and 10 points, respectively. Should be more than enough to secure a win. Instead, your offense flounders to the tune of 9 points against the Mighty Eagles and just 6 against the Governors. Whether it's Victoria Mio and Prokopius Vortigern Rooijakkers on the back end or Candace Ferrett and Kenneth Bray on the front four, this team is shutting down opposing offenses consistently, but they've been hampered by a sub-par offensive line and disastrous quarterback play. If the Buffalo are going to get anywhere this season, they're going to have to fix their issues on the other side of the ball, and fast.

[TJUN-ia]

Last week saw the impact of Earth Trophy III power on both TJUN-ian schools as the battle to keep the MinCon crown on our shores intensified. This week, the MinCon would turn into an absolute free-for-all as after all games played, all teams bar Badfekna Ssoknar Lanom would be within 2 games of each other. Let's show you how this conference descended into absolute chaos...

Let's start with the Trent State Feathercaps, who managed to bounce back with a 21-10 win over Badfekna to move up to a 5-1 record. Johnny Bridgeford was certainly happy that his side managed to get the title defence back on track and he hoped that Leon Gallas could keep up the great play they have been doing for the past few games...but sometimes, the best ways to learn your strengths and weaknesses are with a bit of strife and pain. Earth Trophy III may have been painful, but it certainly contained lessons even the very best Seniors could learn...and today would be another one of those.

The Caps were in Redbird Stadium to take on the Redbirds of Alexandropolis, a side looking to bounce back after falling in the AU last week. UA and Curtis Decker wanted their bounce-back game and what's produced was a defensive masterclass, with only 19 total points and the D-lines certainly working for the NIL money they may get soon enough (if they haven't got stuff already). Both teams struggled to get past the brick walls that were assembled against their own QBs and so, different tactics were used to try and get the scores in. Decker tried to rely a bit on kicker Clyde Head and his 4 FGs were the constant pressure this tight contest needed. TSU did manage a score, Gallas running in and BF Xander Tiovannen getting that PAT, but in the end, TSU was trying too much to win the ball game via TD - and TDs weren't working here in New Gesem. Redbirds won 12-7 and now, the Feathercaps had lost 2 of 3. Up next will be Homecoming Week when they finally head home to face the UCBP Warriors in a must-win now in this tight conference.

Speaking of the Warriors, they were in Belle Haven hosting the Green City Royal Eagles at Jacob F Gleason Field in a game that both Ryan Benton and Paul Abdullahi would've certainly looked forward to. 4-2 vs 4-2, 3rd hosting 2nd and a battle that nobody expected to be this important in the pre-season...all thanks to how well both Moses Igbinoghene and these Eagles have played out of their expectations. This team started 1-2 but suddenly, they were on a 3-0 run and certainly looked like a team on fire right now in a Conference as tight and chaotic as this one.

No one knew what to expect from this contest, the final GCU road game before Earth Trophy IV, but what we ended up with was a perfect road performance against a very tough opponent that will certainly bring up the confidence back in Obodo Green. UCBP ended up with 19 points in this game, with Neal Antonelli opting for 8 point plays. His 2 TDs were to Raymond Darrien but he gave Marquis Zimmerman one of the Conversions while running in the other - the final 3 points via a FG from Landon Korman. GCU ended up with 34 points as Igbinoghene decided to show off his skills with a 5 TD game - twice thrown to Gilbert Nyamutsamba, once to Lucky Sithole-Sita, one nice quick pass-and-run to Mercy Oshoala and one 20-yard run that duked everyone...even the cameraman. Glory Oparanozie did well as well with 4/5 on PATs...not perfect, but certainly good enough. It's now 4-0 for GCU in this run and with a 2-game homestand coming up, how far can this team go? Badfekna Ssoknar Lanom is heading to the Palace next week.

Things are certainly hotting up in this conference. 5 Teams separated by 2 Games with 3 Weeks to go. No matter what happens, both TJUN-ian schools are right in the mix...and that's all we could ever ask for.

---

TSU SCHEDULE (MINERAL Conference + 3 Non-Conf)
Week 1: vs Badfekna SsL (EFK) W 28-0 (1-0)
Week 2: vs UAlexandropolis (NGS) W 15-10 (2-0)
Week 3: @UCBP (CBP) W 32-27 (3-0)
Week 4: vs Constantinople U (NGS) W 24-6 (4-0)
Week 5: @Green City (TJU) L 37-54 (4-1)
Week 6: @Badfekna SsL (EFK) W 21-10 (5-1)
Week 7: @UAlexandropolis (NGS) L 7-12 (5-2)
Week 8: vs UCBP (CBP)
Week 9: @Constantinople U (NGS)
Week 10: vs Green City (TJU)
---------------------Non-Conference---------------------
Week 11: @Staramara Tech (CMT)
Week 12: vs Elephant Valley (SNL)
Week 13: @Swisston City (KND)

GCU SCHEDULE (MINERAL Conference + 3 Non-Conf)
Week 1: @UAlexandropolis (NGS) L 3-36 (0-1)
Week 2: vs UCBP (CBP) W 34-16 (1-1)
Week 3: @Constantinople U (NGS) L 20-30 (1-2)
Week 4: @Badfekna SsL (EFK) W 10-9 (2-2)
Week 5: vs Trent State (TJU) W 54-37 (3-2)
Week 6: vs UAlexandropolis (NGS) W 30-16 (4-2)
Week 7: @UCBP (CBP) W 39-14 (5-2)
Week 8: vs Constantinople U (NGS)
Week 9: vs Badfekna SsL (EFK)
Week 10: @Trent State (TJU)
---------------------Non-Conference---------------------
Week 11: @Silverleaf University (UAD)
Week 12: @MRI (PFA)
Week 13: vs Upper Westside (STK)

[Sarzonia]

You might think a matchup between a team that's level with a couple of others for top of the conference table and one that brought an 0-6 record to a match at the favourite's home grounds wouldn't be considered a big match. If so, you don't know Woodstock University gridball manager James Arthur well.

He told anyone who would listen that he attached major importance to the team's match against the University of the Hampton Cities despite that team entering the contest at Friedgen Stadium 0-6. For contrast, Woodstock had lost two of its last three matches, sandwiching them around a walkoff win over archrivals Joe Gibbs University at Friedgen. The Climbers were in control of the Sequoia Conference and entered the season ranked 20th in the college gridball multiverse, but were now level with the other ranked team in the conference in Silverleaf University.

"I want to see how our team responds to adversity," Arthur said at the team's final media availability prior to the opening kickoff. The Climbers responded well, routing Hampton Cities 53-19 to prevent the Climbers from experiencing their first two-match losing streak since the previous NSCF campaign. The other teams level with the Climbers for top in the table both lost, as Golden Oak University fell to Joe Gibbs 44-24 and Upper Westside lost to Silverleaf University 30-3. Those results create a four-team logjam for runner up in the conference while the Climbers regain sole possession of first place. Hampton Cities fell to 0-7 and are eliminated from postseason contention.

Cal Barkley completed 19-of-23 passes for 191 yards, three touchdowns and no interceptions before sitting out after the first series of the third quarter. Running back Bill Crotty rushed for 186 yards on 24 carries and two touchdowns of his own. Arthur said he wanted to keep his team sharp prior to their away contest to Upper Westside University.

"We've got a tough gauntlet of matches coming up," Arthur said, pointing out the team's home finale will be against Silverleaf and the regular season finale against Gibbs at Cyclone Field. "If we can give our lads a rest, I'm gonna do it."

As for the makeup of the Sequoia Conference's postseason, that was a question Arthur declined to answer, saying his team hadn't clinched anything yet with a 5-2 record and four teams also in contention for the conference title at 4-3. Silverleaf, the defending conference champions and an emerging rival of the Climbers still potentially could have a lot to say about the final conference table. So, too could Upper Westside, the Saint Kanyean school debuting in this NSCF. Golden Oak University also could make a statement with its own 4-3 mark, and of course, the other Sarzonian school in the conference was circling the rematch with Woodstock University at Cyclone Field on their calendars after a devastating walkoff defeat at Friedgen Stadium. The only team that won't be involved in the chase is hapless Hampton Cities at 0-7.

"I can't speak to that team's mindset," Barkley said. "It must be tough to be in a position to play out the string."

Arthur declined to comment on what he would do if he were Hampton Cities' manager, but defensive coordinator Chris Hoskins said he would likely give the depth players "significant playing time, especially the freshmen." As for his own team, Hoskins said he was pleased with how his team handled the two two-point conversion attempts the Brawlers tried and failed to convert after Woodstock was already ahead 53-7.

"We kept playing with intensity and focus on the attempts. Gotta give the Brawlers credit for how they fought to get those last two touchdowns," he said.

[Schima Bas]

The First Crown’s College Fan to Fall into the Almyre River While Intoxicated

Bismal Olmusse was one of the first mega-fans of Crown’s College football. He was also known as one of the first fans to realize that the enforcement of the no-alcohol policy was somewhat lax for Crown’s College. Old Bismal was 60 when he was told by a young, inexperienced student litigator that the national no-booze policy had a “goldilocks zone” that extended from 2 miles around the stadium. Despite this being a common belief among fans, this has never been proven.

Olmusse didn’t let the questionable information dissuade him. Having been a fan of strong drink before (and possibly during) the prohibition, the man set about producing a high-potency moonshine that he could sneak into games subtly. After working for weeks with his co-worker, Randal Jusneigh, at his furniture factory job, Olmusse finally was ready to test his newest product.

The man hurriedly rushed off to the stadium, Old Grant Field, with his homemade concoction. Needless to say, the man quickly realized he could sneak drinks when hidden behind tall student fans, and by the time he got to the stadium’s exterior, he was already starting to feel the effects.

A freshman girl, excited for her first home game, noticed the old man swaying back and forth, crossing his legs over one another, nearing ever closer to the edge of the water, packed with boats for the unique sail-gating culture of the school. She tried to steady him, but the man reacted negatively and stepped back. The only problem? He found only air beneath his feet.

Old man Almusse fell nearly 15 feet before hitting the side of a boat and careening into the murky waters of the Almyre River. Horrified fans stumbled to help him, as those in the boats below responded with a mixed response of laughs and gasps.

The man suffered only bruises and a hit to his pride, but went down in history as one of Crown’s College’ greatest fans, if only for the fact that he was the first drunk patron of the stadium to fall into the river.

His story is only one of many like it, but those are tales for another time.

May the drinks be strong, the river calm, and the Royal Bears forever rowdy!

[PotatoFarmers]

University of Mancodas Team Roster
Stadium: MancodasTown Sports Complex (18,000), Mancodas

About the University
University of Mancodas is the top university in Poafmersia, with the School of Enginerring (SoE), Mancodas Business School (MBS) and the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences (FASS) as three of the biggest strengths of the University. The university is also one of the 3 major universities in Poafmersia, including the Maximus Rochester Institute for Science and Technological Research (MRI) and the Fiskadaha School of Liberal Arts (FSLA).

In Poafmersia, universities go by the semester system, rather than by the trimester system used in quite a number of other nations. Poafmers typically have courses between 3-4 years for a honours degree, up to 6 years if going for a masters degree. As high school/junior college programs end at around 18 years old, a year 1 student in Poafmersia typically refers to a 19 years old. Do the math upwards.

Note: In Poafmersia, sports are mostly gender-blind. If a female has better capabilities than a male, then they have equal opportunities to get into the team. As such, whatever in brackets will refer to their gender. The ones underlined are main starters.

Roster List

Main Formation: Single-back formation

Quarterback
Evonne Rask, 22 (M)
Stella Sierra, 21 (F) 
John-James Mcknight, 19 (M)

Fullback
Willis Simpkin, 21 (M)
Akshay Ellis, 20 (F)
Muhammad Hume, 19 (M)
Sol Mcguire, 20 (M)

Halfback
Foster Africano, 22 (M)
Cassidy Villarreal, 21 (F)
Antoni Gregory, 20 (M)

Tight end
Taina Buonarroti, 21 (M)
Case Micheli, 22 (M)
Misha Dickens, 19 (M)

Wide Receiver
Phanuel Chávez, 21 (M) - LWR
Delano Schwarzenberg, 21 (M) - LWR
Lasal Fenstermacher, 22 (M) - RWR
Tiernan Young, 20 (M) - RWR
Star Hill, 20 (M) - LWR
Aria Winter, 19 (F) - WR

Guards
Noemin Nizzola, 22 (M) - LG
Rumaisa Riggs, 20 (M) - RG
Marcel Silva, 21 (M) - LG
Addie Nelson, 19 (M) - Side TBC
Rebeca Clarke, 19 (F) - Side TBC

Tackles
Ourias Torres, 21 (M) - LT
Taaniel Allard, 22 (M) - RT
Erlendur Cardozo, 22 (M) - LT
Annelies Gunvaldsen, 22 (F) - RT
Orla Khan, 20 (M) - LT
Izabella Branch, 20 (F) - RT

Center
Vincent Treloar, 22 (M)
Ricohard Adami, 21 (M)
Kodey Flanagon, 21 (F)
Charity James, 19 (M)

Main Formation: 3-4 defense

Tackle
Nicoleta Rush, 22 (F) - (L)DT
Ivet Baumhauer, 22 (M) - (R)DT
Lourdes MacDaniel, 21 (M) - (L)DT
Chloe-Ann Bird, 20 (F) - (R)DT
Cohan Blevins, 20 (M) - (L)DT
Khushi Estes, 19 (M) - DT
Keanan Traynor, 19 (M) - DT

Defensive Ends
Mariabella Stojanović, 22 (M) - LDE
Idun Biagi, 21 (M) - RDE
Urbanus McBride, 22 (M) - LDE
Zayden Bowman, 20 (M) - LDE
Dustin Sheppard, 20 (M) - RDE
Rania Rich, 20 (F) - RDE

Middle lineback
Lluís Rayne, 21 (M)
Imrich Fábián, 21 (M)
Ashraf Sabian, 20 (M)
Habib Neville, 19 (M)

Outer lineback
Joseph Jenssen, 21 (M) - LOLB
Kian Santos, 20 (M) - ROLB
Ahyan Robin, 20 (M) - LOLB
Flora Atkins, 19 (F) - ROLB
Rowan Alvarez, 19 (M) - Side TBC
Jena Melton, 19 (M) - Side TBC

Safeties
Dimitri Peura, 22 (M)
Apolena Dunn, 21 (F)
Lily-Mae Brookes, 21 (M)
Talha Moran, 20 (M)
Riccardo Santana, 19 (M)
Asiyah Villalobos, 19 (M)

Kicker: Hammad Bowden, 19 (M)
Punter: Berry Abategiovanni, 22 (M)
Holder: Krish Douglas, 21 (M)
Long Snapper: Lupus Kozlov, 22 (M)
Returner: Aonghus Berger, 22 (M)

Main Coach: Livia Smit, 48
Coaching Team:
Albus Capitani, 33 (Offensive Coach)
Fortunato Masters, 32 (Offensive Coach)
Cord Ventura, 32 (Defensive Coach)
Tirzah Vance, 30 (Defensive Coach)
Pyry Horton, 28 (Fitness Coach/Special Teams Main Coach)

Main Team Strategy: Pace and offense goes hand-in-hand for the Mammoths, and they have evolved to using the team's strong stamina as a way of pushing attacks fast and quick. Which also explains why they go all out for offense - they really don't like to sit deep and defend, and once they get the ball, a quick push towards the other end will certainly do them well.

---

Maximus Rochester Institute for Science and Technological Research (MRI) Team Roster
Stadium: Jasin Chan Gridiron Park (22,000), Sarim

About the University
Maximus Rochester Institute for Science and Technological Research (MRI) is the premier research university in Poafmersia. It mainly specialises in research & development, including looking at big research projects & technological advancement. Home to the highest percentage of graduate research papers, The university is also one of the 3 major universities in Poafmersia, including the University of Mancodas (UoM) and the Fiskadaha School of Liberal Arts (FSLA).

Given that the university has a strong graduate program, a number of its sports teams contain graduates looking for a master's degree or a PhD. As such, some of the players may be slightly overaged as compared to what it typically would be in a college/university team.

Note: In Poafmersia, sports are mostly gender-blind. If a female has better capabilities than a male, then they have equal opportunities to get into the team. As such, whatever in brackets will refer to their gender. The ones underlined are main starters.

Roster List

Main Formation: Pro-set formation

Quarterback
Maha Huynh, 21 (M)
Casper Bruce, 20 (M)
Mahir Hanna, 19 (M)

Fullback
Hanifa Olsen, 21 (M)
Arun Jefferson, 21 (M)
Cruz Sadler, 19 (M)
Loretta Schmidt, 19 (F)

Halfback
Dimitri Trejo, 22 (M)
Emily-Rose Cochran, 21 (F)
Tashan Cooke, 20 (M)

Tight end
Noa Rice, 22 (M)
Maeve Cotton, 20 (M)
Remy Tait, 19 (M)

Wide Receiver
Anil Gunn, 22 (M) - LWR
Aaran Peck, 22 (M) - RWR
Jared Armitage, 21 (M) - LWR
Lucien Peterson, 20 (M) - LWR
Jaimee Huffman, 20 (F) - RWR
Umer Stanton, 19 (M) - RWR

Guards
Dina Melendez, 22 (M) - LG
Anastasia Noel, 22 (F) - RG
Alanis Carver, 21 (F) - LG
Buddy Brennan, 20 (M) - LG
Osian Quintana, 21 (M) - RG
Rhian Hartley, 20 (M) - RG

Tackles
Juliet Suarez, 22 (M) - LT
Becky Marshall, 22 (M) - RT
Tomos Tomlinson, 20 (M) - LT
Ethan Correa, 19 (M) - LT
Jordi Henderson, 20 (M) - RT
Marley Beck, 19 (M) - RT

Center
Sallie Mack, 22 (F)
Ahmed Huang, 21 (M)
Stan Macfarlane, 20 (M)
Nicole Hines, 19 (M)

Main Formation: 4-3 defense

Tackle
Fred Bains, 22 (M) - LDT
Bobby Cortes, 22 (M) - RDT
Sarah-Louise Meza, 21 (F) - RDT
Jay Bannister, 20 (M) - LDT
Eesha Salt, 21 (F) - RDT
Anwen Edmonds, 20 (M) - RDT

Defensive Ends
Ivo Boyd, 22 (M) - LDE
Alexandros Craig, 22 (M) - RDE
Aalia Paul, 20 (M) - LDE
Mamie Harding, 19 (M) - LDE
Theodor Knight, 20 (M) - RDE
Ela Krueger, 19 (M) - RDE

Middle lineback
Ciaran Frederick, 22 (M)
Cairo Dillard, 21 (M)
Sama Carroll, 20 (F)
Griff Foreman, 19 (M)

Outer lineback
Amelie Singh, 21 (M) - LOLB
Muna Savage, 21 (M) - ROLB
Jadon Caldwell, 20 (M) - LOLB
Keane Whitmore, 19 (M) - LOLB
Fletcher Hirst, 20 (M) - ROLB
Shanae Dunne, 19 (M) - ROLB

Safeties
Ayaana Lang, 22 (M)
Rajveer Alfaro, 21 (M)
Safa Corrigan, 21 (M)
Emmie Beck, 21 (F)
Yasir Irving, 20 (M)
Myles Howell, 19 (M)

Kicker: Cadi Warner, 22 (M)
Punter: Mara Benton, 22 (M)
Holder: Lacie Howe, 20 (M)
Long Snapper: Shantelle Oneill, 22 (F)
Returner: Malika Short, 21 (M)

Main Coach: Maisha Hulme, 43
Coaching Team:
Mikail Cantu, 30 (Offensive Coach)
Rian Floyd, 29 (Offensive Coach)
Lewys Ryder, 32 (Defensive Coach)
Rian Floyd, 30 (Defensive Coach)
Joseph Nguyen, 34 (Fitness Coach/Special Teams Main Coach)

Main Team Strategy: Defence first - the less they concede, the more they hold the ball, the better. This is the team's strategy in 1 line, unless you are really technical and go down to analyse each and every step of their moves.

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my scorers/scoring events: Yes.
Godmod scoring events: Anything realistic goes. Non-realistic events, like sudden bird evasion, please contact me first.
RP/Godmod injuries to my players: You specify the details, I determine how long he will be out for.
Suspend my players: Yes, but contact me first
Godmod suspension events: Same as above.
Godmod other events: Contact me first, my TGs and DMs are free for things like that.
RP any COVID/virus-related events: No, they do not exist on Poafmers or in Poafmersia

[South Newlandia]

Top Seven recruits out of South Newlandia: Part 2

3rd: Dhairya Taylor, Center, Elephant Valley High School
Taylor is a big, tall, but still quick-footed center. He’s made a name for himself despite playing at a relatively small Elephant Valley High School. Advanced stats for Offensive Lineman in South Newlandia are hard to come by, but the team he played for was among the best both in rushing yards and preventing sacks with him, and mediocre at best without him. Taylor is great at pass protection in particular, but he’s also a very serviceable run blocker, along with being quick to learn new schemes. He also had just a single recorded bad snap in his entire high school career. Academically, Taylor is interested in music.

2nd: Nicolo Lorenz, Kicker, Lexen City High School
You’ve got to be really good at kicking to make top prospect lists, but Lorenz is just that. The young kicker reportedly had Chromatik ancestry, although this is unconfirmed; what is confirmed is that he set a whole bunch of kicking records in high school, and he only missed two extra points in his entire high school career, one of which was blocked. He’s very reliable from inside 45 yards, and still remarkably accurate from beyond that, and he’s even shown a particular knack for great kick-offs on the side. He might very well be a once-in-a-generation kicking prospect from South Newlandia. In his pursuit for thoroughness, he even played on the high school football (other football) team for a bit; but he's willing to give this up if it better suits his academic interests, which include Physics and Math.

1st: Shivay Patil, Inside Linebacker, Mark Friednan High School (Ratzupalfu)
Shivay Patil tops this list, and he’s a perfect example of what can happen if a very talented player gets trained by a high school focused on developing him as a player. At 221 pounds already, he can absolutely run over people, and set a new record for TFLs in his senior season. He’s the kind of guy opposing running backs tend to fear, and he knows it; his elite wing span, focus and determination can help him blow up plays with ease. Patil, who played for the biggest and best school in South Newlandia (although that isn’t saying an awful lot), grew up in Ratzupalfu, which also means that he enjoys to play even in the most difficult environments. He might go to his local Egrets, but he’s more academically interested in Law, and knows he’ll be able to make a name for himself even at an actually good college.

[Banija]

"The Biggest Game of the year"- Northern Moravica travels to Elephant Valley in a game with massive stakes in the race for a Celestia Conference crown


Fans at the week 3 matchup in Herzegovina City between NMU and Elephant Valley

ELEPHANT VALLEY, SOUTH NEWLANDIA- Gridiron's a game of numbers, right? Let's start with a pair: 0-10. At the halfway mark of the season, the Red Elephants, after two and a half seasons in the Celestia Conference, were a stunning 0-10 against the Banijan schools. Five losses to Loyola-Istria, five losses to Northern Moravica. Win, loss, or whatever, it suddenly seemed like both of our country's schools were an impossible puzzle to figure out for the Red Elephants. And this was a streak that, for them, was fairly unlucky. No serious talent deficit or anything, right? At the exact same time this was going on, Ratzupalfu University of Nature were an all-time 5-1 against the Banijan schools. Not only to flop against the conference's two traditional powers, but to have the second school in your country outplay you like that? Not how they drew it up.

"You know, I always figured that they'd get that streak figured out. To see that they had 10 losses in a row against us- especially when you include a program like Loyola, well, it is indeed shocking." Northern Moravica's AD Horace Browning told reporters. "And, hell, look at them now." Before we get into the meat of this article, let's start with another set of numbers. 4. That is the winning streak that they have embarked on since Northern Moravica retained possession of the Sally Trophy in Week 3, when they earned a 32-22 home victory over the Red Elephants. But of course, when they started 1-2, things were looking down for the program. Yet another pair of losses in Banija to open the season, and then you have Ratzupalfu taking absolutely no prisoners, starting the season at 4-0, blitzing both of the Banijan co-favorites at home, and looking like the conference favorites.

But man, how the tables turn, eh? Week 5 was definitive for both teams in this game. Northern Moravica was coming off of their first loss of the season, an away loss to Ratzupalfu. Elephant Valley, coming in at .500 and playing everybody's favorite darling, Ratzupalfu. And suddenly, it was Elephant Valley who started turning the tables and crushing teams. They took it to Ratzupalfu at home, winning by 23 and really starting their turnaround that included a climb up the conference standings. After delivering their national rivals their first loss of the season, and in embarrassing fashion at home to make it that much sweeter. But then, Elephant Valley didn't stop there. They then beat a Banijan school for the first time in Week 6, when the Red Elephants took down Loyola-Istria in the South Newlandian capitol, putting up 58 points in the process and establishing themselves as an offense that can truly explode. Yes, they beat both Barnettsville schools during this 4 game winning streak as well. But the home wins over Loyola and Ratzupalfu? Putting up a combined 94 points in those two games? One hell of a ride.

Northern Moravica has been playing pretty well recently, themselves. They responded very well to their loss at Ratzupalfu. They beat their own archrivals in dramatic fashion, as a forced fumble, inside their own 10 yard line, was what was finally able to put them over the top against Loyola-Istria in week 5. While in week 6 NMU had a home shootout win over Fair Haven State, putting up 50+, they dominated Northern Dinagat State, jumping out to a 17-0 lead after one quarter, and then holding on for the 24-0 shutout victory. But where does this put the conference? This puts Northern Moravica in first place in conference play, at 6-1. Elephant Valley is right behind, at 5-2. And then you have both Ratzupalfu and Loyola-Istria sitting behind them, at 4-3.

That's why there's no qualms about the importance of this game. "This is already a trophy game, so we know that it's important whenever we take the field against Elephant Valley." NMU's head coach Lance Kabuye said. "But this has a number of statements to make about the state of the race for the Celestia. An Elephant Valley win could potentially make it purely chaotic... An EVU home win could surely see four teams within one game of the lead in the conference, with just two games left. But we are not interested in photo finishes here in Herzegovina City. The Celestia Conference trophy's rightful home is in the trophy case in Herzegovina City, and we intend on bringing that back. And what is our best chance of doing that? By retaining the Sally Trophy."

We asked Lance Kabuye how he prepares for a game like this. "It's the biggest game of the year so far, considering the stakes to win the Celestia." Kabuye said. "But it's all about having our heads in the game, and keeping our focus on the field. There's no use in pretending this game doesn't have stakes- I'm not a believer in ignoring the stakes. But we need to use that to energize. Not to give us negative pressure- but to give us the extra motivation we need, throughout the week. Staying up to study film. Working on perfecting your routes. Enhancing your knowledge of the gameplan. Etc... But we have a golden opportunity to take a stranglehold on the Celestia in South Newlandia, and make no mistake about it- we intend to take it."

Big words coming from a coach who is well-known for his.. Lack of humility, to put it nicely. Can the Cougars back it up on the field on Saturday night?

---

Loyola-Istria Brief Snippets
- The Blue Thunder stopped a two game skid this past weekend this past weekend at the Istria Lightning Yard, defeating Ratzupalfu by a score of 42-27 at home to improve to 4-3. The Blue Thunder, of course, sit two games behind the present conference leaders, Northern Moravica. Craig Juniper threw for 381 yards and four touchdowns, compared to zero interceptions, to lead the charge for the Blue Thunder at home. Russell Farmer and Rachel Emerson both went over 100 yards receiving, and Emerson had two TD receptions with Farmer having one. The other TDs came from a Wemusa Nakato 27 yard TD run, as well as Timon Ogweyo taking a reverse 27 yards for a score on the ground.
- The Blue Thunder have stark home and road records. Fortress Istria is still standing, as they sit at 4-0 at home, with only a visit from Northern Moravica remaining on their Celestia home schedule. While they haven't lost at home, they are winless on the road. The 0-3 road record, with losses to EVU, Ratzupalfu, and NMU, have been harshly criticized by local media. This is in everyone's minds as Loyola-Istria's next two games are also on the road, with a trip to Northern Dinagat State in Week 8, and a visit to Fair Haven State planned for week 9.

[Chromatika]

Preview, Part One
Preview, Part Two
Matchdays 1-3
Matchdays 4-5
Matchdays 6-8
Matchdays 9-10, Part 1
Matchdays 9-10, Part 2

Chromatik High School Gridiron - Season Nine Conference Title Games

Diamond Conference Championship Game

Lanar High School 30–6 Rainbow Central High School

MVP: Lanar High School Senior QB Steven Brenoir (31 of 44, 329 yards, 3 touchdowns)

Summary: Total dominance from the Rhinos as they take down the Calvaliers, Steven Brenoir scoring all three touchdowns in the first half, and the Rhinos settled down in the second half to just cruise to their Conference Title. The Cavaliers had a decent season by their standards, but, a year after Pelar High School won their first, it'd be the Rhinos to take their first - a far cry from the dominance that Tears of the Revolution High School had in the early seasons of the Chromatik Collegiate High School system. With Brenoir, Derulo as a target, and Griffith helping out on the defensive end, the Rhinos are a team that are a dark horse favorite for the national title as a whole.

Pearl Conference Championship Game

South Sanar High School 37–51 Jerome A. Samuelson High School

MVP: Jerome A. Samuelson Junior QB Anderson Joseph, Jr. (30 of 41, 441 yards, 6 touchdowns)

Summary: A wildly entertaining game, but with the Mimes forcing four turnovers, Anderson Joseph throwing for six scores, and a span of four minutes where the Mimes scored three touchdowns, Jerome A. Samuelson High School became the most unlikely Pearl Conference champion by running over the Armadillos despite losing two games to end the season. The Mimes, led by Junior FS Kim Byung-Man's forcing of three fumbles, looked absolutely comfortable on the road, while the Armadillos made the final score respectable by scoring three touchdowns in the fourth quarter for the final margin. For both South Sanar and North Sanar, it was a season of wasted potential.

Rainbow District Championship Game

Lanar High School Rhinos vs. Jerome A. Samuelson High School Mimes @ Hawks' Nest, Lanar, Rainbow District

An outside title contender against one of the most inspiring, out-of-the-blue stories in the league? This should be an interesting watch, as the Rhinos are heavy favorites, but the Mimes have all of the momentum in the world. Anderson Joseph, Jr. has become one of the Quarterbacks to watch next season, while Steven Brenoir is one of the best this season - who will win that duel? Ultimately, will it even matter as the Rainbow District remains one of the weakest conferences in the nation?

Mining Guild Conference Championship Game

Mt. Niar High School 15–14 Winter Heights High School

MVP: Mt. Niar High School Senior DE Marquis Quinton (2 sacks, 1 safety)

Summary: In a game where QB Viktor Rowles struggled - only throwing for 193 yards with a touchdown and an interception - it was Marquis Quinton's two sacks - the first that ended a drive an the second that resulted in a safety late in the fourth quarter - that ended up being the difference as the Mt. Niar High School Anacondas barely escaped their third meeting against the Winter Heights High School Glaciers to continue their undefeated season. The Glaciers' formidable defense held Rowles at bay, and they even had two scores on the ground from Sophomore RB Neil Hynes, but it was too much for the Glaciers when Quinton decked Glaciers Sophomores QB Raoul Lipos to the ground for the deciding margin. Not what the Anacondas wanted from this round, but they'll happily move on.

Snowy Fields Conference Championship Game

Brisara Trade School 14–10 Umbar Hills High School

MVP: Brisara Trade School Junior OLB Hera Athena (18 tackles, 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles)

Summary: In a much lower scoring game than anyone expected, the Brisara Trade School Businessmen escaped their matchup against the Umbar Hills High School Grizzlies, with OLB Hera Athena being all over the Grizzlies' offense with a MVP performance. Businessmen Junior QB Rico Divalles had an effective yet not brilliant day, going 15-of-24 for 201 yards and the two scores. After being under the Grizzlies' shadows for multiple seasons, it's great to see the Businessmen atop the conference, showing that a trade school can have the players and the skills to win one of these conferences as well - it's not just about being part of sports academies.

Mountain District Championship Game

Mt. Niar High School Anacondas vs. Brisara Trade School Businessmen @ The Frozen Stadium, Felswyr, Mountain District

The Anacondas were slowed down by the Glaciers in the Conference Championship game, but the Glaciers have one of the best defenses in the country, and the Businessmen simply do not. For the upstarts from Brisara to win, Rico Divalles will need to outduel Viktor Rowles, which is a bit of a tall task to ask when Rowles has been heralded as the next bigshot Quarterback to come out of Mt. Niar High School. All the pundits expect the Anacondas to at least reach the National Playoffs, so a loss here to the Businessmen would really declare to the rest of the nation that Brisara Trade School should not be ignored.

Breadbasket Conference Championship Game

West Shantarr High School 34–12 Pùr Equestrian School

MVP: West Shantarr High School Junior WR Enox Silverman (9 catches, 180 yards, 3 touchdowns)

Summary: After Pùr Equestrian School took an early 10-0 lead by virtue of forcing a turnover, West Shantarr wouldn't look back, Sophomore QB Francine Weller finding Enox Silverman three times in the rest of the game as the Scorpions prevailed. The Riders' defense fell off in the second half as West Shantarr outscored Pùr Equestrian by a margin of 21-2; it was a nice bounce back victory for the Scorpions after their two-game skid at the end of conference play. With the majority of their starters being underclassmen, expect the Riders to be around for at least the next few seasons as they try to dethrone the duopoly at the top of the conference between the Scorpions and the Order of East Shantarr.

Dairy Conference Championship Game

City of Lorentine High School 59–14 Cheonju Korean Institute

MVP: City of Lorentine High School Senior OLB Karry Pleimoor (11 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 1 interception, 3 defensive touchdowns)

Summary: A defensive clinic was put on by Karry Pleimoor as the Senior scored three touchdowns - one on a fumble return, one interception return from the flat, and one strip-and-sack in the end zone where he ended up with the ball. Red Devils QB San Coreen was harassed all game long by the Wizards' defensive front, while the Wizards' offense did just enough - Freshman QB Jack DeLanoff has shown sparks of brilliance in the middle of doldrums. The Wizards won't be able to get four turnovers from their defense every game; it'll be how they handle the games to come where that doesn't happen that will determine just how likely this team is to take the national title.

Heartland District Championship Game

West Shantarr High School Scorpions vs. City of Lorentine High School Wizards @ Riders' Arena, Pùr, Heartland District

This is really the Wizards' game to lose, especially with just how good Pleimoor has been setting up the offense. However, Enox Silverman will be a matchup nightmare for the Wizards' secondary, and if Francine Weller can have enough time to find Silverman, there could be an opportunity for an upset here. This is a matchup that Coastal District fans have been waiting for the entire season, so it should please a lot of fans and pundits; scouts from both Staramara Tech University and Felswyr State University, along with many other NSCF colleges, are expected to be present as they take a look at Pleimoor's next chapter.

Wildlife Conference Championship Game

Lhor Central High School 13–23 Rhoni School of Architecture

MVP: Rhoni School of Architecture Senior RB Amira Kong (22 carries, 191 yards, 2 touchdowns)

Summary: With Flying Jellyfish DE Kyra Bones being contained on one side of the line, RB Amira Kong carried the majority of the load for the Gradients, scoring their two touchdowns and leading the way to three more field goals as the Gradients became the most unlikely conference champion in the nine years of Coastal District history. Picked to finish in the bottom two before the season, the unique combination of Kong running well behind an overperforming line, a team that didn't make many mistakes, and the ability to win close matchups led to this unlikely title. Just how far will their specific Cinderella run continue? We will see with apt interest.

Aqua Conference Championship Game

West Rhoni High School 32–13 Coast Guard High School

MVP: West Rhoni High School Senior QB Isaiah Hunter (31 of 38, 389 yards, 3 touchdowns)

This is their tenth win in a row, and the Warhawks are scary. Coast Guard High School was able to match pace for a quarter and a half, but the quality of play from Isaiah Hunter was far too much for the Warhawks to handle, Darian Pollard and Amos Pickard are reliable targets, and the Guards had already done better than expected by even getting to this point. When they started the season 1-2, the Warhawks had asked for everyone's patience; now, they're starting to show why, and are being quoted as the only other team other than Mt. Niar to really have a shot at taking on the teams from the Islands and the Capital District.

Coastal District Championship Game

Rhoni School of Architecture Gradients vs. West Rhoni High School Warhawks @ The Cove, Lhor, Coastal District

Welcome to the District Title game, upstart Gradients. Your job? Take on one of the hottest teams in the country, led by a potential #1 recruit out of Chromatika. Isaiah Hunter has the Warhawks poised to return to the National Quarterfinals with aspects to reach the national championship, but the Gradients have been one of those teams that just wont' get out of anyone's way, meaning that this matchup at The Cove should be one to remember. West Rhoni surely are put together enough to survive the upstarts and move on to try to win their first national title, right? All RSoA would say to that is that time of possession can really flip games. An interesting chess match awaits.

Myana Conference Championship Game

Myana Northwestern High School 34–20 Pier High School

MVP: Myana Northwestern High School Freshman QB Nicole Estera (21 of 31, 398 yards, 3 touchdowns)

Summary: Often overshadowed by the behemoth of the defense that she plays with, Freshman southpaw Nicole Estera really shined in this matchup, finding Sophomore TE Jen Hallow twice in the second quarter on her way to three scores as the Blue and White returned to the District Title game after a one-year absence, stopping the Anglers. Anglers Junior QB Jerome Eddison, returned from his injury earlier in the year, was decent enough to keep the Anglers in the game, but the Blue and White forced two turnovers in the second half, helping Myana Northwestern control the pace of the game to the victory.

Island Conference Championship Game

Bouveil Historical School 23–16 Egren Academy

MVP: Bouveil Historical School Senior QB Kya Cheri (21-of-25, 289 yards, 2 touchdowns)

Summary: With three seconds left, QB Kya Cheri's pass found the soft hands of Conference MVP Senior TE Han Byung-Ma - only Han's third catch of the game - and the Barracudas escaped heading into overtime against the Inquisitors to win the Island Conference by a score of 23-16. The Inquisitors were able to hang with the Barracudas due to the play of Junior QB Theodore Hawkson, but Cheri and Han's partnership that yielded eighteen touchdowns during conference play ended up being the difference maker at the end. For Egren Academy, it was a better season than they'd expected; for the Barracudas, it's about time that they made it to a District title game, though they are a year or two ahead of schedule.

Myana Island Championship Game

Myana Northwestern High School Blue and White vs. Bouveil Historical School Barracudas

This is really a hard game to call. The Blue and White remain one of the premier programs of gridiron football in Chromatika, and will be looking to put last year out of their memory; the Barracudas, one the other hand, want to see just how far Kya Cheri can take this squad. This has the potential to be a classic sword vs. shield affair as the Blue and White's strength is in their defense while the Barracudas lean on Kya Cheri; for her, a win over the Blue and White would lift her recruiting stock and really show that hyer years with the Barracudas were not a waste of time.

Emerald Conference Championship Game

Staramara Tech High School 27–26 Block High School of Tor

MVP: Staramara Tech High School Sophomore K Jin Hayamoshi (3/3 Extra Points, 2/2 50+ yard Field Goals)

Summary: Not often a kicker gets praised, but Hayamoshi was clutch on the day with three extra points and a pair of really long field goals, including the game-winner from 53 yards out as time expired, which is pretty long for a high school player. The Battle Angels had a much harder time against the Stars than expected, but with Senior FS Harold Hynes having eight tackles and two fumbles, the offense turning those turnovers into points, and Hayamoshi coming through when the team needed him the most, they'll make sure that the only teams to ever win the Emerald Conference title are from either Staramara Tech High School or Staramara Athletics Academy.

Silver Conference Championship Game

Urrhed High School 34–7 Tihon Elite Academy

MVP: Urrhed High School Senior WR Xaya Larr (11 catches, 181 yards, 3 touchdowns)

Summary: Sand Vipers Junior QB Eduard Hickson had a great day against the Fog Wall, finding Xaya Larr for three touchdowns (all scored after the catch), while the Sand Vipers' defense only allowed one big play - Sophomore QB Sean Ilhan finding TE Kendra Hicks for a 41 yard TD pass up the seam. This is the second title in as many seasons for the Sand Vipers, who were always playing second fiddle to the likes of Central Tihon and Waves High School. The Sand Vipers will be trying to win the Urrhed Island for the first time - and the Silver Conference will be trying to stop the monopoly that the Emerald Conference has had for the last three years.

Urrhed Island Championship Game

Staramara Tech High School Battle Angels vs. Urrhed High School Sand Vipers @ The United Center, Urrheddiao, Urrhed Island

There is no denying that a Staramara school has represented the Urrhed Island in the majority of the National High School Gridiron Championships. Is this the season where that could change? Eduard Hickson and the Sand Vipers look poised to make history, but there is no denying the fact that Staramara is just different. This will be a sold out affair that people will be talking about for months to come - the best chance for another city not named Staramara to represent the island come the national playoffs.

Revolution Conference Championship Game

East Omnio High School 13–31 Vitoron School of Charge

MVP: Vitoron School of Charge Sophomore QB Mtupeni Onwuatuegwu (28-of-31, 382 yards, 4 touchdowns)

After all that, the Geomancers fell flat, and the defending National Champions, the Vitoron School of Charge Robots, won the Revolution Conference title to get one step closer to defending their title. Geomancers Junior QB Lance Ott hung with Onwuatuegwu for a half, but the Chromatik born from Banijan expats utterly took over in the middle quarters, finding the same receivers that Anne-Maurice Vivayavich had found the previous season for the Robots' surprise title. It was a disappointing game from a neutral perspective as there had been the opportunity of the game being an instant classic, but the Robots are looking to peak at the right time - and as they've shown last season, they'll be a scary opponent if they accomplish that feat.

Grandmaster Conference

Wirr Tsi School for the Gifted 13–10 Gurshan High School

MVP: Wirr Tsi School for the Gifted Senior DT Mack Honnack (8 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble)

Summary: In a game of inches, the "Mack Attack" of DT Mack Honnack contributed in a major way to the victory, disrupting the Drills' backfield time and time again, forcing the crucial turnover that the Masterminds turned into their only touchdown, and beating double teams on a regular basis. It was a tough game for the Masterminds offensively, committing two turnovers themselves, but Junior SS Peter Rundstead led the secondary with three pass breakups and five tackles to help supplement Honnack's big day, and the Masterminds were able to keep that final field goal margin.

Capital District East Championship Game

Vitoron School of Charge Robots vs. Wirr Tsi School for the Gifted Masterminds @ The Shock, Wirr Tsi, Capital District

If we look at the pace of play as a whole, the Masterminds should actually be the favorites in this game. However, the Robots have been there and done that, and the wealth of experience that this team has about playing once the playoffs begin cannot be discounted as the two teams meet at The Shock. One one hand, Vitoron School of Charge is the nation's top scientific prep school; on the other, Wirr Tsi School for the Gifted can only be attended by High School Seniors with an IQ of above 121, which can lead to some very small class sizes. The fact that such a school even has a team in the top sixteen in the nation is something else altogether.

Chromia Conference Championship Game

Central Heights High School 38–44 North Chromia High School

MVP: North Chromia High School Junior CB Henry Osweiller (6 tackles, 2 interceptions, 2 defensive touchdowns)

Summary: In the shocking result of the round, the North Chromia High School Hotshots - with a -5 point differential and only sneaking in by virtue of the results of the last matchday - overwhelmed the Central Heights High School Defenders behind an MVP performance from Henry Osweiller's two pick-sixes and Junior QB Kevin Harness having the best game of the season, throwing for three scores while not committing a turnover. The Defenders led for the majority of the first half, but North Chromia would tie the game at 21 at half; after that, Osweiller had his two pick-sixes in the third quarter, and the Hotshots were off to the races.

Black & White Conference Championship Game

Kynxe High School 32–46 Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School

MVP: Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School Sophomore QB Noah Sellers (24-of-30, 381 yards, 6 touchdowns)

Summary: The Martyrs are another team that will always get back online when the playoff hit, and this year is no exception. Despite Kynxe High School Junior RB Willie Kyne leading the Monsoon by virtue of 181 yards and three touchdowns, Noah Sellers and the Martyrs responded with six scores of their own - plus a field goal and a two point conversion - for the final margin. These are the Martyrs - the Champions of Season Seven, the Runners-Up of Season Eight. If they go on a run, nobody would blink twice - except for some reason, they struggled in conference play this season. How far will they go?

Capital District West Championship Game

North Chromia High School Hotshots vs. Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School Martyrs @ Chromatik City Field, Chromia, Capital District

A game between one of the craziest upstarts and one of the most ridiculously consistent sides can't be from different ends of the spectrum. If the Hotshots win, it'd be the biggest upset in Chromatik gridiron history; it's not likely, but you never know until the game happens...

---

National Top Twenty - Post Conference Championship

Chg Po. School Name                                    Record    Conference (District)
-11 20. East Omnio High School Geomancers              (06-05) - Revolution Conference (Capital District East)
-06 19. Pier High School Anglers                       (07-04) - Myana Conference (Myana Island)
-06 18. Central Heights High School Defenders          (07-04) - Chromia Conference (Capital District West)
-10 17. Tihon Elite Academy Fog Wall                   (07-04) - Silver Conference (Urrhed Island)
NEW 16. North Chromia High School Hotshots             (07-04) - Chromia Conference (Capital District West)
NEW 15. Rhoni School of Architecture Gradients         (07-04) - Wildlife Conference (Coastal District)
NEW 14. Jerome A. Samuelson High School Mimes          (07-04) - Pearl Conference (Rainbow District)
+06 13. West Shantarr High School Scorpions            (07-04) - Breadbasket Conference (Heartland District)
+06 12. Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School Martyrs  (07-04) - Black & White Conference (Capital District West)
+09 11. Vitoron School of Charge Robots                (07-04) - Revolution Conference (Capital District East)
+05 10. Lanar High School Rhinos                       (08-03) - Diamond Conference (Rainbow District)
+07 09. Urrhed High School Sand Vipers                 (08-03) - Silver Conference (Urrhed Island)
+03 08. Wirr Tsi School for the Gifted Masterminds     (08-03) - Grandmaster Conference (Capital District East)
+01 07. City of Lorentine High School Wizards          (08-03) - Dairy Conference (Heartland District)
-01 06. Brisara Trade School Businessmen               (09-02) - Snowy Fields Conference (Mountain District)
+01 05. Staramara Tech High School Battle Angels       (08-03) - Emerald Conference (Urrhed Island)
=== 04. Bouveil Historical School Barracudas           (09-02) - Island Conference (Myana Island)
=== 03. West Rhoni High School Warhawks                (09-02) - Aqua Conference (Coastal District)
=== 02. Myana Northwestern High School Blue and White  (09-02) - Myana Conference (Myana Island)
=== 01. Mt. Niar High School Anacondas                 (11-00) - Mining Guild Conference (Mountain District)

Teams in Red are eliminated.

As we head off to the District Playoff Round, we honor the four teams that had been playing their best before they lost in the Conference Championship. Unless a team ranked ahead of them absolutely get shelled in the District Playoffs, expect Tihon Elite Academy, Central Heights High School, Pier High School, and East Omnio High School to be in the final Top 20. It's a bit surprising to see Vitoron School of Charge and Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School so high on the list, but the fact that they'd played in the championship game last season lifts them higher than the other 7-4 teams on the list, especially the three (the Mimes, Gradients, and Hotshots) that are the upstarts. To see the Battle Angels ahead of the Businessmen, despite being a game behind, is interesting, but Urrhed Island is deemed stronger than the Mountain District.

The District Playoff Round will see these matchups based on ranking:

#1 vs. #6
#2 vs. #4
#3 vs. #15
#5 vs. #9
#7 vs. #13
#8 vs. #11
#10 vs. #14
#12 vs. #16

Myana Northwestern vs. Bouveil Historical is the marquee matchup of the round, while Mt. Niar and Brisara Trade School will also be interesting. The closest by ranking besides the Myana Island clash is the game between the Masterminds and the Robots - a hurdle that Vitoron School of Charge will have to overcome if they'll repeat as National Champions.

[Valanora]

Is this finally the season that Mar Sara Tech surges back and takes back the crown of the best Vanorian team from Raynor University? Through the first seven games of the season, it looks like it might be the case as the Raiders have hit their stride and have yet to taste defeat this season. While there was a lot of concern going into the season and after the first two games due to the freshman quarterback, Jericho Swayne, starting under center for the the Raiders, they have captured a bit of magic in the middle part of the season and really set sail. The Chromatika born quarterback had some jitters in the first few weeks of the season but like the second halves of those first two games, he settled down and began to showcase why he was a sought after recruit. It does help that the gunslinger has a plethora of skilled players around him to ease the burden, with Ty Gardner, Kawsu Gaye, and Blake Joyner all providing options for the gunslinger to pick from or hand off to in the form of the versatile Gardner who can line up at both running back as well as out wide as a receiver.

With quite a bit of turnover for the Raiders, this was not supposed to be a season where they were going to be out ahead of everyone and looking like they are going to be good for winning the conference title. With two true freshman starting on both sides of the ball as well as some sophmores, it was a case where it looked like the seniors were supposed to mentor the new crop but not likely to be in a conference title winning position, even though playoffs were considered likely with how good the upperclassmen actually were. Some clutch late drives in those first two games definitely brought a bit of confidence into the team and they were able to translate into numerous victories, the biggest of course coming in the first rivalry week when they hosted the Rockets of Raynor University. It was not even a close victory as it has often been in the last three or four seasons when the Raiders played their home leg in the Battle for the Royal Saber, but instead it was a game in which they dominated and seemingly put Raynor into a bit of a tailspin, allowing the Raiders to currently be sitting in the dominant position.

That tailspin is in large part due to the unexpectedly poor play of Kualu Luani under center, which has been a huge shock to all across the NSCF landscape after the Ranorian lead the Rockets to their title last season and an astonishing eighteen wins in a row before the team finally was beaten by their in nation rivals of Mar Sara Tech. That defeat was one that could be shouldered well, as the entire team just looked a bit gassed in their game against the Raiders and Tech has a history of finding ways to look good in the home game of the rivalry fixture. It was what happened the following week in Poafmersia in which it was totally unforgivable for the quarterback, the offense, and the entire team in general. The team completely did not show up against MRI Gijikyhandasari Yeraiqhospifasas, giving the Poafmersia school their only win on the season in an absolutely disgusting game where there was only nine points scored, with the hosts scoring two field goals and the Rockets only managed to get one despite their completely overpowered offense. A six three defeat that likely has made their chances of winning the conference for a fourth straight season very unlikely.

As a result, when the Rockets traveled to face down the Ensigns of the Ceneisis Naval Academy, they pulled out a massive surprise by starting Octavien Soh-Brousseau, the freshman quarterback that nearly all schools were trying to recruit to their cause during last season. The quarterback who has been sitting the entire season until now looked absolutely on fire against the former blueblood of the conference, throwing for four scores and three hundred twenty-three yards in a dominant victory by the Rockets against one of the former tough foes of the conference. However being two games back of the Raiders, it is quite unlikely that they will be able to win the conference again, as it would require the Raiders to lose another game before the two sides meet in the capital at the end of conference play to determine who will take home the Battle for the Royal Saber this season, which in itself will be a huge task given how the Raiders completely dominated the first game. For now, the Rockets will need focus on just finishing the regular season on a high note and trying to make sure they are in a position to jockey for playoff positioning once the out of conference games begin next month.

[Ranoria]

Sequoia and Mineral scores!

Mineral Conference

Mineral Conference
Badfekna Ssoknar Lanom(EFK) 13–24 University of Alexandroupolis(NGS)
Trent State University(TJU) 60–30 University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park(CBP)
Green City University(TJU) 42–10 Constantinople University(NGS)

 Mineral Conference                                    Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Green City University(TJU)                              8    6   2   227  173  +54
2 Trent State University(TJU)                             8    6   2   224  149  +75
3 University of the Commonwealth of Baker Park(CBP)       8    4   4   240  209  +31
4 Constantinople University(NGS)                          8    4   4   127  183  −56
5 University of Alexandroupolis(NGS)                      8    4   4   171  145  +26
6 Badfekna Ssoknar Lanom(EFK)                             8    0   8    72  202 −130

Sequoia Conference

Joe Gibbs University (SRZ) 13–3 Silverleaf University Goblins(UAD)
Upper Westside University(STK) 13–13 Woodstock University(SRZ) (27–20 OT)
The University of the Hampton Cities (HAP) 13–16 Golden Oak University (UAD)

  Sequoia Conference                             Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Woodstock University(SRZ)                        8    5   3   257  198  +59
2 Upper Westside University(STK)                   8    5   3   208  215   −7
3 Joe Gibbs University (SRZ)                       8    5   3   203  147  +56
4 Golden Oak University (UAD)                      8    5   3   163  172   −9
5 Silverleaf University Goblins(UAD)               8    4   4   163  116  +47
6 The University of the Hampton Cities (HAP)       8    0   8   128  274 −146

[Chromatika]

Felswyr State University Firehawks vs. Cavsar University Gladiators
Late Heroics from Odden, Antonucci Earn Firehawks Narrow Victory

Team                                  1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
Felswyr State University              10   7   3   7   27
Cavsar University                      6   9  12   0   26

1Q
11:28 CU TD - Mike Banks 8 yard run (2pt no good)
09:01 FSU FG - Michelle Breille 48 yard Field Goal
02:51 FSU TD - Nyata Antonucci 37 yard run (Michelle Breille Kick)

2Q
12:11 CU TD - Ivan Scola 21 yard pass from Darian Lewis (2pt no good)
08:49 CU FG - Percy Westcott 41 yard Field Goal
02:19 FSU TD - Stan Devlin 44 yard pass from Jonas Odden (Michelle Breille Kick)

3Q
11:31 FSU FG - Michelle Breille 38 yard Field goal
09:43 CU TD - Mike Banks 20 yard run (2pt no good)
02:11 CU TD - Mike Banks 4 yard run (2pt no good)

4Q
04:31 FSU TD - Jonas Odden 2 yard run (Michelle Breille Kick)

---

Staramara Tech University vs. Hoofstra University
Late Rhodes Run Keeps Lava Right Behind Firehawks

Team                                  1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
Staramara Tech University              3   6   3   7   19
Hoofstra University                    7   7   3   0   14

1Q
11:51 STU FG - James Dior 29 yard Field goal
02:31 HU TD - Lightning Bolt 31 yard run (Airtime Kick)

2Q
14:21 STU FG - James Dior 41 yard Field Goal
09:01 STU FG - James Dior 48 yard Field Goal
02:50 HU TD - Natalie Brookford 21 yard pass from Dick Richardson (Airtime Kick)

3Q
05:49 STU FG - James Dior 51 yard Field Goal
01:31 HU FG - Airtime 38 yard Field Goal

4Q
02:27 STU TD - Lana Rhodes 43 yard run (James Dior Kick)

[Quebec and Shingoryeo]

First game of the season, junior year of high school.

First career start, first snap of the game.

I could hear the usual sound. Just in a different way,[i] Benoit Youngblood thought to himself as he looked at the west stands, where a thousand people, half students and teachers, half locals and scouts, were cheering with their flashcards, pompoms and a lot of shouts. The crowd at the Avon-Gillespie School has never been a particularly huge one, and the small, posh population of the school didn't mesh entirely well with the sport that was gridiron football. I know these faces, even if all feels eerie,

'The Commoner's Upper-Class Sport, The Upper-Class's Commoner Sport'.

That's how the football-rugby split had worked back in the time, but we could argue that since association football's moved more towards those lines, gridiron football has taken over the spot. That may have been partly why the school, even with the long, dedicated history of the sport, didn't entirely have the feels for the sport unlike many other independent schools of their kind. After all, it was the school that prided itself on a longstanding legacy of lords, ladies and not to mention white-collared members of the society who would spend tens of thousands of Quebecois pounds to attend it each and every year of their and their children's schooling. No matter how good the school was at the sport, there's something off about it that a more average of observers would notice.

Of course, that wasn't what's really on Benoit's mind. The grandson of rural teachers and farmers hoped that he would start the game correctly. He wasn't feeling the nerves coming at him, though he knew the stakes were high. For first two years of high school, he was a backup quarterback who also doubled up as holder and on special teams while Jeremy Chartrand, the starting quarterback of the team, had gone back and forth with 8-2 and 7-3 finishes and a state semifinals appearance.

Now, he was the starting quarterback for the Gophers, and everything felt different now that he was really holding the ball for an actual game. It wasn't awkward...just felt surreal. To be able to actually start, and hopefully carve out his legacies. It wasn't something that he was aware of until now, but now it was becoming a matter of reality.

Damn, Benoit chuckled. He now had to hope that all was going to work out fine...

Present Time, the day of Exam Results (A week before visits to Cold Hill and Richardson Universities)

The headmaster's office at the Avon-Gillespie School was a particularly hot room, to say the least. Built with limestone and decorated with a mix of pine and oak and endlessly old furniture, it carried lots of history like the headmasters who had come and past this room over the years - many prominent people left their words about the students they were invited to lecture, the Prime Ministers had visited this room before on their own volition, and even Queen Arlene the Great had a tea time there once. Back in 1856.

So it was of no surprise that Benoit Youngblood didn't always feel the most comfortable with the room. He's been inside this room about a dozen times before, usually with other prefects and the head boy and the head girl, or with his housemaster, but this time he was going to be by himself, as the headmaster was the one who let every graduating student be informed of his Acadie provincial High School Examination scores.

Brick by brick, that's how the process was described by the general student body, and it wasn't the most fun of experiences - some would only spend a minute there, others thirty minutes. Some would be asked serious questions about their future pathways. Others would get a nod from the headmaster. Thus, when it was Benoit's turn to arrive at the room for hopefully the last time in a while, he felt slightly nervous. With his hair carefully combed, his blazers all straightened and the prefect and athletics badges lined up, he entered the room, hoping that he wasn't going to spend too much time there.

'Ah, Benoit,' said the headmaster, old man with circular glasses and grey suits named Dr. Lucien Chainey. A longtime faculty of the school, it was only two years ago when the 64-year old, after spending many years waiting for the appointment, was named the headmaster. But the every bit of wait seemed to have helped, as the headmaster felt himself even more reinvigorated than he were back in 46 years of age. 'Come have a seat, my boy. No need to rush.'

Feeling the pin drop. Benoit slowly moved and took a seat. Well that's a good start, he thought to himself, as the Headmaster opened his examination files. 'Well, how did you think your HSCs went, Youngblood?' Dr. Chainey asked, his glasses deflecting the light. 'It has not been an easy year in Acadie.'

'I hope all went well, but it was a particularly hard year for economics and mathematics I've heard as well,' Benoit answered, still remembering the horrors that had come with macroeconomics questions.

'Well, I'd suggest you not worry,' he looked back at him, before taking a read at his exam scores again. '97.5 ATAR is not something to be joked about. 98 on economics and 93 on mathematics. Others went well too.' he then cleared his throat, 'What's your next plan? Have you already passed both rounds of interviews for St. Croix?'

'I am still waiting for the second stage results, sir,' answered Benoit, trying his best not to think too much about the second stage of interviews that had passed two weeks ago. It was back in his campus visit when Benoit, who was in Quebec City for three days of scheduled visit, had to schedule a second round of interviews like every applicant to the institution. Could have been worse, was how he felt about it at the time, as Benoit survived the series of questions about Nyowani Kitara conflict and the series of discussions that were occurring in Tikariot at the time. [i]The examiners definitely seemed not so happy about the Corvistone's perspective I was going for, but maybe they were thinking of me going for more of devil's advocate position.[/o]

'Well, I have exchanged correspondences from Cold Hill and Richardson universities about your next visit,' said the Headmaster, trying not to go too much into details about it. 'Have a safe trip, and that hopefully more will come.' he then continued, 'The examiners at St. Croix and Saguenay seemed to be happy about you - they telephoned me two days ago. Isn't your mother from there?'

'The Bend? Why yes, sir,' answered Benoit. 'I was just there for Christmas, especially as father had to be on a business trip.'

'What are your thoughts about the Fighting Irish? You know, it's been several years since an Gillespian had gone there on an athletic scholarship, but you do have a lot of heritage to the area...'

'I'm not thinking too much about it at the moment, but that's something to consider,' answered he, not really saying that Saguenay Fighting Irish's fallen out of his top list. While more was going to be determined after the St. Croix-Saguenay match he's invited for the official visit, it was more or less clear by this point that Saguenay's less on his interests by now.

'In any case, have a safe trip.' The headmaster nodded, before giving a hand gesture. 'You can and will go anywhere you wish to, so you know, boy. Take time with it all. Now can you please bring (Chase) Pronovost in?' he asked.

'Sure,' answered Benoit, bowing twice before leaving the room.

[Drawkland]

Big Eight & Woodlands
MD8

Only two conference games after this!!! Let's goooooooo!!!!

BIG EIGHT
Richardson University (RAN) 39–9 Kohnhead City University (KHD)
University of Lekenik (DOT) 6–17 Cold Hill University (RAN)
Richmond University (STR) 0–27 Swisston City University (KHD)

  BIG EIGHT CONFERENCE                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Richardson University                    8    8   0   243  103 +140
2 Cold Hill University                     8    6   2   135   59  +76
3 Kohnhead City University                 8    5   3   198  131  +67
4 Swisston City University                 8    4   4   109  121  −12
5 University of Lekenik                    8    1   7   141  270 −129
6 Richmond University                      8    0   8    84  226 −142

WOODLANDS
Flores Irdyum National PSEC (UNP) 16–42 Université du Saguenay (QUE)
HaAkademia HaKrav Shel Milchama (MIL) 30–14 Natanians and Nosts PCRU (NTN)
Crown's College (SHM) 19–10 Université St. Croix (QUE)

  WOODLANDS CONFERENCE                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Crown's College                          8    7   1   309  142 +167
2 Université St. Croix                     8    7   1   224  141  +83
3 Université du Saguenay                   8    5   3   251  185  +66
4 HaAkademia HaKrav Shel Milchama          8    3   5   211  259  −48
5 Natanians and Nosts PCRU                 8    1   7   140  289 −149
6 Flores Irdyum National PSEC              8    1   7   140  259 −119

[Quebec and Shingoryeo]

Celestia and Zephyr Conference Cutoff.

Matchday 8

---

Celestia Conference
Northern Dinagat State University Panthers (BAR) 23–27 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder (BNJ)
Ratzupalfu University of Nature Egrets (SNL) 45–17 Fair Haven State University Blue Jays (BAR)
Elephant Valley University Red Elephants (SNL) 19–53 Northern Moravica University Cougars (BNJ)

# Celestia Conference                               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Northern Moravica University Cougars                8    7   1   269  190  +79
2 University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder            8    5   3   238  185  +53
3 Elephant Valley University Red Elephants            8    5   3   242  196  +46
4 Ratzupalfu University of Nature Egrets              8    5   3   188  152  +36
5 Fair Haven State University Blue Jays               8    1   7   146  249 −103
6 Northern Dinagat State University Panthers          8    1   7   112  223 −111

Zephyr Conference
MRI Gijikyhandasari Yeraiqhospifasas (PFA) 31–23 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns (AFT)
Raynor University Rockets (VAL) 39–34 University of Mancodas Mammoths (PFA)
Mar Sara Tech Raiders (VAL) 76–27 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists (NGD)

# Zephyr Conference                                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Mar Sara Tech Raiders                                 8    8   0   307  160 +147
2 Raynor University Rockets                             8    6   2   225  158  +67
3 Ceneisis Naval Academy Ensigns                        8    3   5   197  205   −8
4 Thereisnogodistan Community College Atheists          8    3   5   185  270  −85
5 University of Mancodas Mammoths                       8    2   6   205  184  +21
6 MRI Gijikyhandasari Yeraiqhospifasas                  8    2   6   100  242 −142

[Banija]

Horizon Conference

Matchday 8

Don't let 'em say you ain't beautiful at today's cutoff. Believe in yourself!

Horizon Conference
Hoofstra University Pride (KRD) 21–10 Felswyr State University Firehawks (CMT)
Cavsar University Gladiators (DRK) 26–21 Aturim Deephides Stonecutter School Stonecutters (KGS)
Sadeg State University Skyhawks (DRK) 27–20 Staramara Tech University Lava (CMT)

Horizon Conference                                         Pld   W   L    PF   PA   PD 
1 Felswyr State University Firehawks                        8    6   2   213  147  +66
2 Staramara Tech University Lava                            8    6   2   280  159 +121
3 Cavsar University Gladiators                              8    5   3   226  183  +43
4 Sadeg State University Skyhawks                           8    3   5   200  204   −4
5 Aturim Deephides Stonecutter School Stonecutters          8    2   6    96  236 −140
6 Hoofstra University Pride                                 8    2   6   131  217  −86

[Saint Kanye]

The seventh and eighth games for the Upper Westside University Red Pandas were as different as night and day. The away game against the Silverleaf University Goblins, the defending conference champs, was an ugly 30-3 loss that saw UWU quarterback Tim Hunt leave the game just three minutes into the second quarter after a hard hit by opposing defensive end Salomon Cocks, and Hunt's replacement Adrian St. Roger throw four interceptions, two returned for touchdowns. But the home matchup against the Woodstock University Climbers was a thrilling 27-20 double overtime victory, an instant classic if you will, with Hunt throwing for 325 yards, 25/34 completions and three touchdowns (QBR 132.60) in his return to action, and free safety Vince "The Prince" Black recording the game-winning pick six.

1Q SU field goal Rigby 45 SU 3-0
First, let's look at the Goblins game. The home team's opening drive ended in a punt, as did the Red Pandas' succeeding possession. Now the ball is back in the Goblins' hands, and while their drive would again stall, they would find themselves with enough distance to successfully make a field goal.

1Q SU Waller 41 pass from Garner (Rigby kick) SU 10-0
A few plays later, a pass from Austin Garner to Anjelica Waller on third and long would put Silverleaf U ahead ten-nil.

2Q UWU field goal Ingberg 27 SU 10-3
A short field goal by Matt Ingberg at the start of the second quarter gave the visitors their first points of the game, which would unfortunately turn out to be their only points of the game. After forcing the Goblins to go three and out on their next possession, the Red Pandas had a chance to tie. On the very first play of their drive, Hunt scanned the rest of the field for an open receiver, but found none. Despite not being much of a scrambler, he decided to make a play with his legs instead, and would even have gotten the first down if not for Cocks slamming into him and knocking him silly.

2Q SU Ray 37 interception return (Kick failed) SU 16-3
2Q SU Hudson 25 run (Rigby kick) SU 23-3
The Goblins capitalized on the loss of one of their opponents' offensive weapons in Hunt and the relative inexperience of St. Roger, growing their lead to twenty before halftime on an interception return by Wilkie Ray and a run by Loreto Hudson.

4Q SU Webster 64 interception return (Rigby kick) SU 30-3
Upper Westside had several chances to score in the third quarter, but St. Roger kept getting picked off, and Ingberg missed a 44-yarder that sailed wide left. Midway through the fourth, Edwyn Webster iced a win for SU with another pick six.

"Man, that was ugly," said Red Pandas offensive coordinator Fred Doss, "but we can't lose hope after a game like that. We really gotta bounce back." And bounce back they did. Returning home to the UWU Stadium in St. Kanye's capital of Kardashia, the boys in red figured in a tough battle against the Climbers, their tormentors from earlier in the season. Hunt was on fire throughout the day, while Climbers quarterback Cal Barkley, the hero of their first matchup, got shackled this time around, with just 199 yards and one touchdown (in extra time) to his name.

1Q UWU Fredericks 66 pass from Hunt (Kick failed) UWU 6-0
The Red Pandas and Climbers traded defensive stops at the start of the game, and it wouldn't be until four minutes remaining in the first half for someone to get onto the scoreboard. Hunt faked a handoff to Darius Douglas, dodged a potential sack from nose tackle Chris Hartley, then threw on the run to Deshawn Fredericks, who zipped past his defenders on the way to the house. Unfortunately, Ingberg's extra point attempt bounced out.

2Q WU Crotty 32 run (Andersen kick) WU 7-6
A sack on Barkley by Ryan Blake brought up second and 15, but a run by Bill Crotty tied things up at six apiece. Matt Andersen then showed his namesake Ingberg how PATs are meant to be done, and booted his in to give the visitors a one-point advantage.

3Q WU field goal Andersen 40 WU 10-6
3Q WU field goal Andersen 29 WU 13-6
Two FGs in the third quarter made it a one-touchdown lead for the Climbers....

4Q UWU Cooley 26 pass from Hunt (Ingberg kick) Tie 13-13
.... but a quarter later, Hunt would hook up with tight end Jonald Cooley for the equalizer. More defensive stops from either side prevented them both from breaking the deadlock; a pick by Tenzin Thomas on a last second desperation Hail Mary by Barkley forced overtime.

1OT WU Banks 11 pass from Barkley (Andersen kick) WU 20-13
Fred Banks was the recipient of a short pass from Barkley that gave their team the early overtime lead.

1OT UWU Laney-Seymour 38 pass from Hunt (Ingberg kick) Tie 20-20
Josh Laney-Seymour, the Red Pandas' #3 wideout and primary punt returner, recorded only his second touchdown of the tournament, hauling in a quick pass by Hunt to beat the Climbers blitz and making it a 20-all affair. Coincidentally, it was for 38 yards, the same as his other score against Woodstock's fellow Sarzonian school Joe Gibbs U.

2OT UWU Black 59 interception return (Ingberg kick) UWU 27-20
Having looked a little lost during regulation, Barkley started making more of his throws during the two overtime periods. He had just completed two successive passes for first downs and was gearing for a third, but instead of finding Buddy Holcomb, he instead threw the ball directly into the hands of Black. The senior free safety made off like a bat out of hell, running along the sidelines and eventually diving for the score.

The entire UWU student section erupted in cheers, after which a huge mass of red-clad supporters stormed the field. The Red Pandas rose to 5-3, tied with their victims as well as the JGU Cyclones and the Golden Oak University Foxes. "This might all go down to point differential," said UWU head mentor Fabio Forelli. "Right now our two Sarzonian opponents are ahead of us in that regard, so if we want to make the playoffs, we must rely on having more wins than them in the succeeding games, both within the conference and outside of it. Anyway, huge win for the boys, it took longer than usual, but their hard work thankfully prevailed in the end."

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| MD | Opponent                                               | Helmet/Jersey/Pants  | Score   | Record | Place |
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| 1  | Joe Gibbs University Cyclones (SRZ)                    | Red/Red/White        | W 43-40 |  1-0   |  3rd  |
| 2  | Silverleaf University Goblins (UAD)                    | White/Red/Red        | W 24-17 |  2-0   |  2nd  |
| 3  | @ Woodstock University Climbers (SRZ)                  | White/White/Red      | L 34-54 |  2-1   |  3rd  |
| 4  | Golden Oak University Foxes (UAD)                      | Red/Red/White        | W 44-20 |  3-1   |  2nd  |
| 5  | @ The University of the Hampton Cities Brawlers (HAP)  | White/White/White    | W 16-9  |  4-1   |  2nd  |
| 6  | @ Joe Gibbs University Cyclones (SRZ)                  | Red/White/Red        | L 17-25 |  4-2   |  2nd  |
| 7  | @ Silverleaf University Goblins (UAD)                  | Red/White/White      | L  3-30 |  4-3   |  3rd  |
| 8  | Woodstock University Climbers (SRZ)                    | White/Red/White      | W 27-20 |  5-3   |  2nd  |
| 9  | @ Golden Oak University Foxes (UAD)                    | White/White/Red      |         |        |       |
| 10 | The University of the Hampton Cities Brawlers (HAP)    | Red/Red/Red          |         |        |       |
| 11 | University of Loyola-Istria Blue Thunder (BNJ)         | Red/Red/White        |         |        |       |
| 12 | Cavsar University Gladiators (DRK)                     | White/Red/White      |         |        |       |
| 13 | @ Green City University Royal Eagles (TJU)             | White/White/Red      |         |        |       |
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[TJUN-ia]

Last week, a loss and a win sent the MIneral Conference into absolute chaos as suddenly, 5 of the 6 teams were separated by only 2 games with 3 weeks to go. Now that things are this tight and practically everyone was in a with a shout at the Mineral Crown, every single game from now to the very end will matter in deciding the champ...so let's see how our schools got on then, shall we?

We will start, of course, with the Trent State Feathercaps, who lost in a tight defensive war with the Alexandropolis Redbirds over in New Gesem to make their one-game cushion at the top of the MinCon turn to dust. Now, the mighty TSU had found themselves behind their rivals in the AU by H2H alone and Johnny Bridgeford was not going to allow that to stand. He did not want to lose the MInCon crown he had worked so hard to get and especially not to their Earth Trophy foes - but losing 2 of their last 3 games got them into this scenario in the first place. He knew he needed a big win to get this season and the title defence back on track, but that would have to come on a big night like this one would be - Homecoming against the Warriors of UCBP.

UCBP needed no introduction, Ryan Benton's side was certainly an opponent TSU were familiar with over the years, but the crowd here at Sherwood Field would be an instant classic and an example of what an angry team can do in a game like this one. UCBP actually scored 30 points in this contest as Neal Antonelli and replacement Devon Stubbs were certainly trying to get points on the board. Antonelli found Raymond Darrien and Marquis Zimmerman twice each while Stubbs got Zimmerman twice, kicker Landon Korman going 3/4 on PATs and 1/1 on FGs. In a normal game of football, scoring 30 points would be seen as a job well done...but this wasn't a normal game of football and the Caps were simply on a mission tonight. They scored 60 points tonight...SIXTY! Leon Gallas ended up with 4 TDs and heck, even backup Jason Steels managed 2 for himself. Gallas found both Fremont Whitehorse and Ivan Borosić twice while the other TDs before Steels came on came through Pick Sixes from Jessica Farron and Jason Tyrell, with Xander Tiovannen going 4/6 on PATs and 2/2 on FGs. Steels, meanwhile, gave a TD to both Ivan and Peter Borosić while backup kicker Eleonora "Firefeet" Scafakou went 2/2 on her attempts. 60-30 was certainly not the scoreline anyone was expecting, but Notts was certainly going to take that and they will hope for more of the same against the Constantinople Binturongs.

Speaking of UC, they were in The Palace to kick off a home double-header for the Green City Royal Eagles, who managed to extend their win streak to 4 games after a 39-14 win in Belle Haven. It was these same Binturongs who last beat GCU in the Mineral, winning 30-20 out at Ripper Stadium...and you can certainly say a lot has changed since that time. Paul Abdullahi's Mikiya Na Sarki manage to turn themselves from a team with no clear future into one of the hottest teams in the NSCF right now and even Paul himself can find himself surprised with just how quickly the ship has corrected itself. Now, they found themselves on top of the tree by head-to-head and were now actually starting to believe that maybe, just maybe, they could actually take the crown. But all title challenges need momentum and they knew they had to keep winning to put the pressure on everyone else.

TSU scored 60 in their game up in the NAU, yet it was GCU who ended up with the biggest margin of victory. To be fair to Josh Wilkins, his side did end up with a respectable 10 points - a Joshua Gonzales TD to Reed Olsen, with both a PAT and a FG from Cody Romero - but when the hosts were scoring 42, there was basically nothing they could do. GCU were cooking here in the AU and Moses Igbinoghene ended up with 6 TDs on the night and all of them with such efficiency as all five of Gilbert Nyamutsamba (twice), Lucky Sithole-Sita, Mercy Oshoala, Victory Prince-Brown and Stella Oshoala all ended up on the scoresheet. Another good performance came from Glory Oparanozie, who ended up going 6/6 on PATs. It certainly was a commanding win that kept them in the hunt for the MinCon - with 0-8 Badfekna Ssoknar Lanom coming to town next week for the final home conference game.

This conference could end up being decided in Notts...and that would be a scary thought for both sides. Still, they will both push on believing they will be the side that keeps the MinCon title on TJUN-ian soil...

---

TSU SCHEDULE (MINERAL Conference + 3 Non-Conf)
Week 1: vs Badfekna SsL (EFK) W 28-0 (1-0)
Week 2: vs UAlexandropolis (NGS) W 15-10 (2-0)
Week 3: @UCBP (CBP) W 32-27 (3-0)
Week 4: vs Constantinople U (NGS) W 24-6 (4-0)
Week 5: @Green City (TJU) L 37-54 (4-1)
Week 6: @Badfekna SsL (EFK) W 21-10 (5-1)
Week 7: @UAlexandropolis (NGS) L 7-12 (5-2)
Week 8: vs UCBP (CBP) W 60-30 (6-2)
Week 9: @Constantinople U (NGS)
Week 10: vs Green City (TJU)
---------------------Non-Conference---------------------
Week 11: @Staramara Tech (CMT)
Week 12: vs Elephant Valley (SNL)
Week 13: @Swisston City (KND)

GCU SCHEDULE (MINERAL Conference + 3 Non-Conf)
Week 1: @UAlexandropolis (NGS) L 3-36 (0-1)
Week 2: vs UCBP (CBP) W 34-16 (1-1)
Week 3: @Constantinople U (NGS) L 20-30 (1-2)
Week 4: @Badfekna SsL (EFK) W 10-9 (2-2)
Week 5: vs Trent State (TJU) W 54-37 (3-2)
Week 6: vs UAlexandropolis (NGS) W 30-16 (4-2)
Week 7: @UCBP (CBP) W 39-14 (5-2)
Week 8: vs Constantinople U (NGS) W 42-10 (6-2)
Week 9: vs Badfekna SsL (EFK)
Week 10: @Trent State (TJU)
---------------------Non-Conference---------------------
Week 11: @Silverleaf University (UAD)
Week 12: @MRI (PFA)
Week 13: vs Upper Westside (STK)

[Kohnhead]

KSPN's Kohnheadian Recruits #10-6

After a one year hiatus due to the banning of sending Kohnheadians overseas that was only in effect last year, KSPN is back with its annual ranking of the 10 best potential recruits in all of Kohnhead.

10. C - Donald Peel
Coming out of Parga Prep, at #10 we have Donald Peel who is the second highest ranked recruit along the offensive line. Peel is an undersized player but plays with his heart out and is very intelligent pre-snap and during the course of the play. He can block like no one's business in both the run and pass game but again is undersized coming in at just 6' 3 and 280 pounds. His lack of size and a few small injuries these past few seasons might defer a few school and are the reason he's only ranked at 10 but in the right program Peel will thrive.

9. RB - Nancy Franco
Running backs out of Kohnhead have notoriously been the best of the bunch but this year's class is quite weak in comparison to recent years. Franco comes in ranked as the best of the bunch known as an absolute bruiser. She doesn't have the top end speed to scare anyone but she is difficult to bring down and is probably best suited as a red zone and short yardage situation back for her first season. She can pass block decently well but offers nothing in the receiving game unlike some other recent bruisers (see Whitworth and Roach both of whom can catch competently).

8. TE - Bailey Ball
Do you even call Ball a tight end? Baileyhas 4.5 speed and has the build of a large receiver yet is listed as a tight end. Ball is one of those modern tight ends out of Dawson Central who can catch anything and can run routes like the best of receivers. Ball doesn't do much of the traditional blocking but he again adds a whole lot in the passing game. In addition I mean his last name is literally ball, he was meant to ball out.

7. WR - Jaydan Randall *Committed to Kohnhead City University*
Here he is, Kalu Alazar's replacement having already signed his letter of intent to play for the Mighty Eagles next season having played for their favorite team to recruit from in Hillside Prep. Randall set the High School leagues aflame with his ability to get open but having the size to moss (still don't know how that's a word) anyone in the end zone. His biggest weaknesses are his speed and catching ability, he can make spectacular catches in the back of the endzone but he has a drop problem that was shown in the National Finals when he had three drops as Hillside fell 37-34 in an instant classic to Parga Prep.

6. QB - Troy Ashton
It isn't yet official, Ashton says he's keeping his options open but out of Swisston City High the "Savior of Swisston City" is more than likely going to suit up for the Army Knives next season. He has that perfect QB size standing tall at 6' 4 and with an arm that rivals some of the best in college football, Ashton will certainly be a hot commodity. He's also a great leader and is a great character off the field with a determined work ethic. His biggest problem is just an inability to use his feet. Ashton cannot extend plays to save his life and his best move is the shuffle to the side which only sometimes works. His longest run last season went for five yards which pretty much sums it up. Nevertheless he should be a fantastic college quarterback.

[Chromatika]

Preview, Part One
Preview, Part Two
Matchdays 1-3
Matchdays 4-5
Matchdays 6-8
Matchdays 9-10, Part 1
Matchdays 9-10, Part 2
Conference Championship Game

Chromatik High School Gridiron - Season Nine District Title Games

Rainbow District Championship Game

Lanar High School Rhinos vs. Jerome A. Samuelson High School Mimes @ Hawks' Nest, Lanar, Rainbow District

Team                                       1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
Lanar High School                           0   0   3   0    3
Jerome A. Samuelson High School             0   0   0   7    7

1Q
None.

2Q
None.

3Q
10:01 LHS FG - Gavin Hanar 41 yard Field Goal

4Q
02:11 JAS TD - Jerry Larx 31 yard pass from Anderson Joseph, Jr. (Brenna Howarth Kick)

MVP: Jerome A. Samuelson High School Junior FS Kim Byung-San (6 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 interception)

Summary: A very defensive affair at the Hawks' Next, with nine punts and four turnovers, but Kim Byung-San intercepts Steven Brenoir in the flat and returns it to the Rhinos' side of the field, and two plays later, Anderson Joseph, Jr. finds Jerry Larx on a seam route for the final margin. Kim Byung-San was definitely the star as the Free Safety was ever present in the Rhinos' backfield, but the Rhinos themselves also did a lot to shut down Anderson Joseph. Thankfully for the Mimes, AJ Jr. was able to recover at the end, and the Mimes had their first Rainbow District title - something that nobody had expected from them, ever.

"Nobody believed in us," stated Kim after the game, "But we love playing with each other and have started to really come to believe in the team as a whole."

This is the Mimes' time to shine - as they're one of the final eight teams left.

Mountain District Championship Game

Mt. Niar High School Anacondas vs. Brisara Trade School Businessmen @ The Frozen Stadium, Felswyr, Mountain District

Team                                       1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
Mt. Niar High School                       10  10  10   7   37
Brisara Trade School                        7   3   0   0   10

1Q
10:01 MNHS TD - Tyler Geese 71 yard pass from Viktor Rowles (Ivan Homer Kick)
03:21 BTS TD - Tary McLauren 18 yard run (Niles Key Kick)
01:18 MNHS FG - Ivan Homer 51 yard Field Goal

2Q
13:41 BTS FG - Niles Key 43 yard Field Goal
11:15 MNHS FG - Ivan Homer 37 yard Field Goal
04:29 MNHS TD - Jared Ittachi 28 yard pass from Viktor Rowles (Ivan Homer Kick)

3Q
12:41 MNHS TD - Tyler Geese 83 yard pass from Viktor Rowles (Ivan Homer Kick)
03:58 MNHS FG - Ivan Homer 48 yard Field Goal

4Q
07:01 MNHS TD - Liara Gin 66 yard interception return (Ivan Homer Kick)

MVP: Mt. Niar High School Junior QB Viktor Rowles (33-of-41, 397 yards, 3 touchdowns)

Summary: A game after being contained by the Glaciers, Viktor Rowles was far better off against the Businessmen, and Brisara Trade School wasn't able to hang in the game for too long as the Anacondas took their rightful place among the final eight once again. Rowles was particularly good throwing the ball at Tyler Geese, as the Senior Wide Receiver caught five passes for 181 yards and two touchdowns - both over seventy yards long as Geese made mincemeat of Freshman Cornerback Kevin Nye. With Rowles running on all cylinders, the Businessmen couldn't hang around for long, as Quarterback Rico Divalles was harried by the Anacondas' defensive front, leading to an interception that was returned at the end of the game and three sacks.

"We aren't shy about our perfect record, nor what it means," stated Rowles after the statement game when asked about potentially becoming the second ever team to have an undefeated season, "Everyone remembers Sarai's Anacondas team, but we think we have the talent to make that come to fruition right now."

Whomever is the unlucky soul to draw the Anacondas in the National Playoffs Quarterfinals will rue the day.

Heartland District Championship Game

West Shantarr High School Scorpions vs. City of Lorentine High School Wizards @ Riders' Arena, Pùr, Heartland District

Team                                       1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
West Shantarr High School                   0   7   0   7   14
City of Lorentine High School               7   0   3   3   13

1Q
05:01 CLHS TD - Randolph Huckleby 22 yard run (Jack Aynes Kick)

2Q
00:01 WSHS TD - Ennox Silverman 27 yard pass from Francine Weller (Kenzie Jones Kick)

3Q
13:02 CLHS FG - Jack Aynes 28 yard Field Goal

4Q
10:04 CLHS FG - Jack Aynes 31 yard Field Goal
01:19 WSHS TD - Ennox Silverman 18 yard pass from Francine Weller (Kenzie Jones Kick)

MVP: West Shantarr High School Junior WR Ennox Silverman (11 catches, 101 yards, 2 touchdowns)

Summary: Though the Wizards had more time of possession, an edge in yards gained, and even an edge on the turnover battle (Karry Pleimoor being as excellent as usual), the tandem of Francine Weller and Ennox Silverman proved to be too much for the Wizards' secondary as Silverman caught the game-winning pass with one hand at the back corner of the end zone for a thrilling 14-13 victory at the Riders' Arena.

With Pleimoor and MLB Britney Hines harassing Weller all night, the Scorpions had to bide for the right time to strike; that time ended up being the last two minutes of each half, as the Sophomore Quarterback was able to find Silverman lurking between the Cornerback and the Safety for the score right before halftime and then once again at the end of the game, where he was perfectly covered by Cornerback Zacharias Silvie just for Silverman to make the grab with both feet in bounds, his left hand bringing in the ball, and maintained possession through the catch. Silverman, the premier possession-based Wide Receiver in next year's recruiting class from Chromatika, has reportedly entertained the idea of heading to the NSCF a year early; the Scorpions will be sincerely hoping that a deep run will convince him to stay as the chemistry between Weller and Silverman continues to develop.

Coastal District Championship Game

Rhoni School of Architecture Gradients vs. West Rhoni High School Warhawks @ The Cove, Lhor, Coastal District

Team                                       1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  OT  Tot
Rhoni School of Architecture                0   0   0   0   0    0
West Rhoni High School                      0   0   0   0   3    3

1Q
None.

2Q
None.

3Q
None.

4Q
None.

OT
1OT - WRHS Uldred Dimitrov 33 yard Field Goal

MVP: West Rhoni High School Senior SS Saya Okayato (5 tackles, 2 forced fumbles, 1 interception)

Summary: Did anyone see this happening? West Rhoni had been high-flying after starting 1-2; they'd won eight games in a row since then. Out of the blue, Isaiah Hunter was sacked eight times - three times by Junior DE Jillian Hunter - as the Warhawks only managed 213 yards in regulation. Thankfully, the Warhawks' defense also came to play, RB Amira Kong being held to 88 yard on 23 carries as the game slowed down to a crawl.

First overtime. First play from scrimmage. A solid hit from Sophomore MLB Lyn Dairon caused Amira Kong to fumble, and the resulting recovery made it so that all Uldred Dimitrov needed to do was hit a routine field goal, and the Warhawks escaped The Cove to head to the National Playoffs Quarterfinals. Will Isaiah Hunter return to form in Nationals? The Warhawks sure hope so, or it'll be a short stint - not that the Quarterfinals are a bad spot.

Myana Island Championship Game

Myana Northwestern High School Blue and White vs. Bouveil Historical School Barracudas @ The Islander Dome, Myana, Myana Island

Team                                       1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
Myana Northwestern High School              7  10   3  10   30
Bouveil Historical School                  10   3   7   7   27

1Q
11:18 BHS TD - Han Byung-Ma 33 yard pass from Kya Cheri (Andrew Waller Kick)
08:32 BHS FG - Andrew Waller 47 yard Field Goal
02:09 MNWHS TD - Jen Hallow 20 yard pass from Nicole Estera (Paul Garnet Kick)

2Q
14:38 BHS FG - Andrew Waller 42 yard Field Goal
10:53 MNWHS FG - Paul Garnet 48 yard Field Goal
02:19 MNWHS TD - Cyrus Ebincott 21 yard run (Paul Garnet Kick)

3Q
12:40 MNHS FG - Paul Garnet 40 yard Field Goal
08:28 BHS TD - Frank Kirribotton 56 yard interception return (Andrew Waller Kick)

4Q
13:49 BHS TD - Han Byung-Ma 29 yard pass from Kya Cheri (Andrew Waller Kick)
09:38 MNWHS FG - Paul Garnet 52 yard Field Goal
01:03 MNWHS TD - Nicole Estera 4 yard run (Paul Garnet Kick)

MVP: Myana Northwestern High School Freshman QB Nicole Estera (20-of-29, 224 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception)

Summary: An absolute barnburner at the Islander Dome as the Blue and White fight the Barracudas through all four quarters, getting by with a late QB sneak from Nicole Estera where she froze the defense for a full second before sneaking out of the backfield. It was a wasted effort from Senior QB Kya Cheri, who had two touchdown passes to Tight End Han Byung-Ma and had the Barracudas in the game till late. Throw in the fact that both Paul Garnet and Andrew Waller made all of their kicks, and this was a game to watch.

What makes Myana Northwestern's late resurgence offensively work? Nicole Estera is small - five foot ten is small for a Quarterback these days - but she's shifty, she has a cannon for an arm, and she knows how to read defenses. The best part? She's only a freshman - and with the way that the Blue and White's defense usually plays, she doesn't have to win the game on her own very often - except, like she showed today, she can if she needs to.

Urrhed Island Championship Game

Staramara Tech High School Battle Angels vs. Urrhed High School Sand Vipers @ The United Center, Urrheddiao, Urrhed Island

Team                                       1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
Staramara Tech High School                  3   0   3   7   13
Urrhed High School                          6   7   3   3   19

1Q
09:51 UHS FG - Lance Killiks 51 yard Field Goal
03:22 STHS FG - Jin Hayamoshi 38 yard Field Goal
00:21 UHS FG - Lance Killiks 54 yard Field Goal

2Q
05:28 UHS TD - Xaya Larr 47 yard pass from Eduard Hickson (Lance Killiks Kick)

3Q
10:58 STHS FG - Jin Hayamoshi 44 yard Field Goal
01:44 UHS FG - Lance Killiks 52 yard Field Goal

4Q
07:22 STHS TD - Romeo Carl 22 yard pass from Davis Pill (Jin Hayamoshi Kick)
04:11 UHS FG - Lance Killiks 55 yard Field Goal

MVP: Urrhed High School Junior Kicker Lance Killiks (4/4 Field Goals, 1/1 Extra Points)

Summary: A last-minute pass from Mattieu Hancock to Romeo Carl was batted down by Anya Notis right before the Junior Wide Receiver was able to get to it, and the Battle Angels fell at the United Center, making it the first time in the history of the Urrhed Island that a team from Staramara will not represent them at the National Playoffs Quarterfinals. Instead, it'll be the Sand Vipers, who had Lance Killiks show why he's one of the top kicking prospects of the Junior class to add to the arsenal of weapons at their disposal. Xaya Larr continued her intricate play with 151 yards on 7 receptions and a touchdown, most of the yards coming after the catch as usual.

The Sand Vipers were finally at the promised land, three matches from the national title.

Capital District East Championship Game

Vitoron School of Charge Robots vs. Wirr Tsi School for the Gifted Masterminds @ The Shock, Wirr Tsi, Capital District

Team                                       1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
Vitoron School of Charge                   16  13   7  10   46    
Wirr Tsi School for the Gifted             10  14  10   7   41

1Q
10:57 VSC Safety - Kang Joseph sack in end zone
08:22 VSC TD - Eduard Wallard 48 yard pass from Mtupeni Onwuatuegwu (Fabian George Kick)
06:11 WTSG TD - Nicholas St. Claire 51 yard pass from Rudy Sai (Yassen Haim Kick)
04:22 WTSG FG - Yassen Haim 48 yard Field Goal
02:29 VSC TD - Kuma Sandt 71 yard pass from Mtupeni Onwuatuegwu (Fabian George Kick)

2Q
14:33 VSC TD - Kuma Sandt 33 yard pass from Mtupeni Onwuatuegwu (Blocked PAT)
10:32 WTSG TD - Peter Rundstead 51 yard fumble return (Yassen Haim Kick)
08:21 VSC TD - Eduard Wallard 55 yard pass from Mtupeni Onwuatuegwu (Fabian George Kick)
00:24 WTSG TD - Nicholas St. Claire 19 yard pass from Rudy Sai (Yassen Haim Kick)

3Q
11:48 VSC TD - Uriah Anyar 37 yard pass from Mtupeni Onwuatuegwu (Fabian George Kick)
05:19 WTSG FG - Yassen Haim 31 yard Field Goal
01:30 WTSG TD - Josip Hradjic 22 yard run (Yassen Haim Kick)

4Q
13:22 VSC FG - Fabian George 36 yard Field Goal
10:52 WTSG TD - Josip Hradjic 18 yard pass from Rudy Sai (Yassen Haim Kick)
00:00 VSC TD - Qamiya Parrine 4 yard pass from Mtupeni Onwuatuegwu (Fabian George Kick)

MVP: Sophomore QB Mtupeni Onwuatuegwu (31-of-42, 441 yards, 6 touchdowns)

Summary: Wow. Action from top to bottom, and it's the Robots that come out of it to try to defend their title after having to fight the Masterminds tooth and nail, with Onwuatuegwu finding seldom used Tight End Qamiya Parrine in the flat for the go-ahead score, the Masterminds' defense having sold out to stop the three star receivers of the Robots.

Onwuatuegwu, who's had some struggles through the season as Vivayavich's replacement, has really come to her own in the last few games, scoring all six touchdowns by the Robots and not giving up a single interception. The Masterminds' defense were pressed the whole game long, though Mack Honnack did have two sacks and three tackles, and Peter Rundstead was able to get the fumble return that almost turned the game upside down.

It's a good effort for the Masterminds, who had one of their better seasons, even with Rudy Sai still being a Sophomore and the likes of Josip Hradjic and Yassen Haim being Juniors. They'll be a force to reckon with next season - but the moment for the Robots is now still, with their stable of amazing receivers.

Can Onwuatuegwu hold up under the spotlight of the National Playoffs?

Capital District West Championship Game

North Chromia High School Hotshots vs. Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School Martyrs @ Chromatik City Field, Chromia, Capital District

Team                                       1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  Tot
North Chromia High School                   0   7   0   7   14
Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School      21   7   7   7   42

1Q
12:28 FLCH TD - Edison Dotwiler 81 yard pass from Noah Sellers (Evan Wakes Kick)
07:40 FLCH TD - Isidore Kraut 25 yard run (Evan Wakes Kick)
02:11 FLCH TD - Noah Sellers 3 yard run (Evan Wakes Kick)

2Q
13:24 FLCH TD - Isidore Kraut 55 yard run (Evan Wakes Kick)
00:21 NCHS TD - Marcus Day 36 yard run (Yuri Pavlov Kick)

3Q
04:53 FLCH TD - Edison Dotwiler 58 yard pass from Noah Sellers (Evan Wakes Kick)

4Q
10:42 NCHS TD - Marcus Day 8 yard run (Yuri Pavlov Kick)
02:43 FLCH TD - Isidore Kraut 32 yard run (Evan Wakes Kick)

MVP: Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School Sophomore RB Isidore Kraut (23 carries, 182 yards, 3 touchdowns)

Summary: The Hotshots' surprising run came to an end as they ran into the absolute buzzsaw of a unit that is the Martyrs, with Isidore Kraut getting three scores this time around. Noah Sellers was also brilliant in the win as the Martyrs never lost control of the game after a twenty-one point outburst in the first quarter where they forced two turnovers and turned them into a 21-0 lead, the lead being twenty-eight before the Hotshots were able to answer at all.

This will be the fourth straight year that the Martyrs are in the National Playoffs Quarterfinals - tied with the Anacondas for the longest in the nation. Can they make it to the title game for the third year in a row, and that with a Sophomore Quarterback?

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Chromatik High School Gridiron - Season Nine National Playoffs

Quarterfinals
Mt. Niar High School vs. West Shantarr High School @ RCK Field, Alnio, Capital District - The Undefeated Streak vs. The Upstarts Led by a Pair of Silver Hands
Myana Northwestern High School vs. Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School @ The Tidal Wave, Tihon, Urrhed Island - Defensive Stalwarts vs. The Dependable Juggernauts
Urrhed High School vs. Jerome A. Samuelson High School @ The Jewel Dome, Ming, Mountain District - Best Sand Viper Team in Years vs. The Biggest Underdog Mimes
West Rhoni High School vs. Vitoron School of Charge @ The Jungle, Eyrods, Myana Island - Team on Nine Game Winning Streak vs. The Awakened Champions

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National Top Twenty - Post Conference Championship

Chg Po. School Name                                    Record    Conference (District)
=== 20. East Omnio High School Geomancers              (06-05) - Revolution Conference (Capital District East)
=== 19. Pier High School Anglers                       (07-04) - Myana Conference (Myana Island)
=== 18. Central Heights High School Defenders          (07-04) - Chromia Conference (Capital District West)
=== 17. Tihon Elite Academy Fog Wall                   (07-04) - Silver Conference (Urrhed Island)
=== 16. North Chromia High School Hotshots             (07-05) - Chromia Conference (Capital District West)
=== 15. Rhoni School of Architecture Gradients         (07-05) - Wildlife Conference (Coastal District)
-04 14. Lanar High School Rhinos                       (08-04) - Diamond Conference (Rainbow District)
-06 13. City of Lorentine High School Wizards          (08-04) - Dairy Conference (Heartland District)
-07 12. Staramara Tech High School Battle Angels       (08-04) - Emerald Conference (Urrhed Island)
-03 11. Wirr Tsi School for the Gifted Masterminds     (08-04) - Grandmaster Conference (Capital District East)
-04 10. Brisara Trade School Businessmen               (09-03) - Snowy Fields Conference (Mountain District)
-05 09. Bouveil Historical School Barracudas           (09-03) - Island Conference (Myana Island)
+06 08. Jerome A. Samuelson High School Mimes          (08-04) - Pearl Conference (Rainbow District)
+06 07. West Shantarr High School Scorpions            (08-04) - Breadbasket Conference (Heartland District)
+06 06. Franscesca Larriet-Cortes High School Martyrs  (08-04) - Black & White Conference (Capital District West)
+06 05. Vitoron School of Charge Robots                (08-04) - Revolution Conference (Capital District East)
+05 04. Urrhed High School Sand Vipers                 (09-03) - Silver Conference (Urrhed Island)
=== 03. West Rhoni High School Warhawks                (10-02) - Aqua Conference (Coastal District)
=== 02. Myana Northwestern High School Blue and White  (10-02) - Myana Conference (Myana Island)
=== 01. Mt. Niar High School Anacondas                 (12-00) - Mining Guild Conference (Mountain District)

Teams in Red were eliminated after the Conference Championships.
Teams in Orange were eliminated after the District Championships.

Quarterfinals Draw by Rank
#1 vs. #7
#2 vs. #6
#4 vs. #8
#3 vs. #5

[Banija]

"Championship Material"- Northern Moravica shows what they're made of with blowout statement victory over EVU; Team is one win away from an 8th Celestia Conference championship


NMU HB Jebel Marenah passes by Elephant Valley defenders for the game's opening touchdown in NMU's blowout victory in Elephant Valley

ELEPHANT VALLEY, SOUTH NEWLANDIA- Everybody knew it was a big game going in. The top two teams in the Celestia, a trophy game, and a game that would set the direction for the remainder of the conference title race here in the Celestia. And when Elephant Valley called for a blackout on Saturday night in this battle, it only enhanced the big game vibes. "The place was rocking in the pre-game- definitely the best environment I've seen from Elephant Valley fans in my years here." Said NMU's starting free safety and defensive captain, Drew Lia. "It was certainly an atmosphere worthy of the stakes, and I think that gave us extra motivation throughout the game." It was a bouncing environment. And, unlike in previous years when NMU fans were gobbling up tickets to try and take over the stadium, NMU visiting fans would be hard to find in the pre-game on the television screen. Helped, of course, by the fact that in South Newlandia it is illegal to re-sell your sports ticket for a profit- but a heavily partisan crowd ready for a night that they would never forget.

And NMU was there hoping it would be a night those fans would never forget as well, but for all the wrong reasons. From the jump, NMU would try to go after them, and Lance Kabuye's unbridled aggression would continue all game long. The opening drive of the game was a clinic. The opening kickoff, naturally, a touchback. And then? 11 plays, 75 yards, taking 6:03 off the clock. Northern Moravica gained all 75 yards on the ground, as Felix Ström was actually 0/1 through the air on the drive. But even against a fierce Red Elephants, 10 carries for 75 yards as a team on that opening drive is exactly how Lance Kabuye likes to see it. Even without Apollo Esther, the HB who was "a match made in heaven" for this program according to the head coach, Northern Moravica can still maul you. Just take 7-8-9 yard chunks, with Marenah(6 carries for 52 yards) carrying most of the load, as well as Fitzroy(1 for 3), Akeyo(2 for 9), and WR Jannik Nadine(1 for 11) spelling him. Marenah would score the touchdown on this drive, however, on a 4 yard carry. 7-0 to the Cougars.

The defense, after a roughing the passer call on the opening play of the game gave Elephant Valley some new life, for a moment, forced a three and out. We'll get to how the defense handled them, later on. But back to the offense. The Cougars got the football at their own 7 yard line, as Chromatik punter Jonas Middleton pinned the Cougars deep. But instead of simply pounding the rock, on the first drive, the Cougars decided, with their backs against the wall on the field, to put the ball into the hands of their young quarterback. And boy, did he respond. "One of the many things I love about Felix Ström- he is built for the moment." Head Coach Lance Kabuye said in his post-game press conference. "The moment is never too big for him, and that allows him to perform on stages like this one. Even last season, at this very stadium, he came off the bench as a true freshman, and led us on a game-winning drive in a game that, if it turned the other way, would've seen us out of the playoffs entirely last season.

He tore apart the defense on that drive, accounting for 77 of the team's 93 yards through that drive. 68 through the air, plus another 9 on a key scramble on 3rd and 6, when a play broke down. The drive ended in him throwing a 4 yard touchdown pass to tight end Zachary Lewis, on a backdoor TE screen. And it was yet another very long drive where they chewed up a ton of clock. 12 plays, 93 yards, 5:47 off the clock, ending in the touchdown pass to the senior tight end. Nearly 11 minutes of first quarter possession, up 13-0. Just 13, you ask? Yes- a frustrated EVU cornerback got hit with an unsportsmanslike conduct penalty, and Kabuye chose to have it applied to the PAT instead of the kickoff. They were going for 2, but this time from the 1. And why not? They simply put Ocan Akeyo behind senior fullback Musa Baldeh, and Baldeh paved the way for Akeyo to reach the end zone and earn two points in the PAT. So an early 15-0 lead.

When the game really started to bust open was when the Red Elephants tried to respond to that touchdown. They had gotten a first down on the drive already, courtesy of Gauge Lawson, and they were moving the football. But the Cougars, eager to get to the QB, brought pressure on the next set of downs, on a 2nd and 2. Jacob Herron ran a play-action left, and then tried to turn it into a bootleg rollout to the right. But the Chromatik defensive end, Josiah Michaels, did not ball chase, and stayed home- and so when Herron turned around after the play-action, he was staring right at Michaels. He simply threw the ball as he got lit up by Josiah Michaels, almost just a desperate heave. But those are never recommended in the middle of the field, and so strong safety Sean Gonzalez jumped the route and picked the ball off. He wasn't brought down until he got to the 10 by WR Gabriel Yafet- Banija's former #1 overall recruit. And it took just one play to make them pay, as a lob to the corner was brought in by Jannik Nadine. Just like that, end of Q1, Northern Moravica was shocking Elephant Valley, with a 22-0 lead.

Northern Moravica would kick ana 47 yard field goal after that, and it was only once the 25-0 second quarter lead was busted out, were the Red Elephants able to actually finish a drive. They scored with about 4 minutes left in the quarter, with Jacob Herron finding Gabriel Yafet in the end zone to make the score 25-7. But this game was already well in hand, as Felix Ström was still the QB for the men in white. Four minutes was way too much time to be left on the clock, and now, Felix Ström was going to make them pay. He was patient- and with 38 seconds left in the half, he finally did make them pay, as Jannik Nadine caught his second touchdown reception of the game, via a 17 yard strike from the sophomore Vanorian Quarterback. That led to a stunning score of 32-7 at halftime, reflective of the fact that Northern Moravica was absolutely mauling the South Newlandians.

That leaves the question, however. How exactly did the Cougars stop the Red Elephants on defense? This Elephant Valley squad had been averaging 31+ points per game this season for a reason. And that reason certainly means that they are not any sort of slouches. But they were the ones who were tamed by the Cougars. How did that happen? Well, the Cougars focused primarily on taking away their run game. It helped, of course, that Northern Moravica's offense putting up points, and putting them up quickly, kinda took the run game out of the equation for EVU. Down 25-0 in the second quarter, can't exactly be diving up the middle to establish the run, can we? But getting into pass heavy mode so early distorts everything. Offensive gameplan thrown out the window, and NMU teeing off on Jacob Herron. He was sacked 8 times throughout the game- six of those in the decisive first half. You get to the QB like that, you wreak all sorts of havoc and create a ton of chaos, which is exactly what a good defense is looking to do. And, of course, Ailo Børve, who was a NSCF 25 Nominee for Defensive Player of the Year, lined up across from a true freshman left tackle. Is that matchup even fair?

While Elephant Valley got the ball to start the third quarter, it would be NMU who would be making the first play of note of the quarter. 2nd and 2 after an 8 yard Gauge Lawson run, right? Jacob Herron, once again running for his life, getting chased by Ailo Børve. While he tried to simply hurl one downfield, he was pounded as he let go of the football by Ailo Børve. It sort of simply floated downfield, and guess who was there to pluck the ball out of the air? None other than the man with a plan himself, Drew Lia- the free safety. It would be Yaya Badjie who would be the ultimate beneficiary of the spoils on the second EVU turnover of the game, as he took a bubble screen from Felix Ström 15 yards to the house. A couple of minutes into the 3rd quarter, and Northern Moravica led 39-7. There was no indication that this game was going to get any closer, and that's when many EVU fans headed for the exits.

After getting a stop to force a punt, NMU's next drive was just as efficient as their previous ones, with the mixture of run and pass tearing the Red Elephants to shreds. The last play of the game for the first team offense was senior fullback Musa Baldeh diving over the top, from the 1 yard line, to get his first score of the season. 46-7 halfway through the third- that was pretty much it. The rest of the game, a formality. Elephant Valley would score a TD in the third, and a TD in the fourth, and each time they went for two- both times failing. NMU, meanwhile, did not score with their second team offense for the remainder of the game. However, with 4 minutes left, EVU launched a punt. Uzoma Obasi, the senior corner and our returnman, made a few players miss and returned the ball 65 yards to the house. Final score? The Cougars won, in stunning fashion, 53-19.

Lance Kabuye, not one known for his humility, said that this was a statement win for his program. "This was the type of win that puts not only the Celestia, but the entirety of the NSCF, on notice. If last postseason did not make it clear enough, we are clearly the superior program in Banija. That is proven both in our record, and in our head to head matchup on the field. Country, Celestia, Competition. The three Cs. This game was a huge step towards accomplishing that second C, and I believe that we can do so, next week at home. It's a statement that our intentions are the same as they have always been- that we are here to compete for championships." Players danced happily with the Sally Trophy, and celebrated with the few NMU fans that were in the building. So many had left early from the opponents, that the booming "N-M-U" chants were heard throughout the stadium.

Northern Moravica now sits at 7-1, two games ahead of the three-way tie, at 5-3 for second place in their conference. The tied schools? Elephant Valley, Ratzupalfu, and Loyola-Istria. Northern Moravica's first challenge to win the conference will be defeating a reeling Ratzupalfu squad in week 9. They just stopped their skid, but they remain dangerous. "Remember- we've never beaten Ratzupalfu." Lance Kabuye told reporters. "That's an extra motivator to work as hard as you possibly can, on the practice field." And if they can't beat Ratzupalfu at home.. Well, you could have a situation where four teams in the Celestia remain in play for the Conference title in week 10. But Northern Moravica will do their best to put those juicy scenarios to rest, by clinching it next week.

Regardless of that though- one hell of a win by the Cougars. Felix Ström going for 377 yards and 4 TDs? The team having a combined 230 rushing yards, including 133 from Marenah? An offensive clinic, and total domination, from start to finish. That 53-19 win will be remembered very fondly around Herzegovina City for a long time.