World Bowl XLIV (44) - Everything Thread

by **Chromatika** » Tue May 17, 2022 10:01 pm

Part 1
Part 2
Part 3
Part 4
Part 5
Part 6
High Schools in Chromatik High School Gridiron - Origins Behind the Unique Mascots, Part 7

Coastal District
Wildlife Conference
East Rhoni High School Kayaks - Welcome to the banks of the Aurora River, the longest river in Chromatika that runs from Rhoni down to past Sanar, cutting Chromatika in two pieces from the northeast to the southwest. Located right on the banks, East Rhoni has won the high school kayaking and white water sports title more than any other school in the country, also having produced most of Chromatika's Olympic athletes in the sport. They feature a different kayak that was used by an alumni as the mascot every year.
Lhor Central High School Flying Jellyfish - The Flying Jellyfish is a street name given to a particular kind of jellyfish that looks like it's flying when it's floating near the water. There are many groups of this kind of jellyfish near Lhor. Lhor Central wanted a mascot that grabbed your attention but did not give you anxiety; this seems like the perfect fit for a school that wants to make sure that its students are floating near the top and also flying through the air in terms of results.
Rhoni School of Architecture Gradients - Architecture has a lot of different units of measurement - and gradient is one of the terms used. A high school with an emphasis on everything architecture related, RSoA excels in math, the sciences, and drawing. There are contests held every quarter with the winner being given grants by cities, districts, and even the Chromatik government itself to get certain buildings constructed according to the student's design, with a portion of the proceeds going to the student's college fund. On the field, their mascot is an image f the four quadrants, which has reportedly given the opposing team panic when reminded of difficult math questions.
Anderson H. Kim High School Chimera - The chimera is a mythical creature - and Anderson H. Kim High School has a renowned program in mythology of any culture. With different costumes for each face that a chimera wears, the costume department at Anderson H. Kim High School is better funded than at most other high schools in the country. Every year, the Chimera ends up in the top three list of "Mascots that would most likely win in a fight".

Aqua Conference
City of Larhai High School Rush - By Rush, they mean a color rush - and the color that they pick depends on their mood. The only high school with no limitation on their home uniform -making sure that the road uniform is always white - City of Larhai High School chooses their main color every year. Doesn't it cost a lot of money to change every year? Not really, as they donate their previous year's gear to other less fortunate schools - something that they get funding from the actual city to do.
Coastal Academy of the Arts Sculptures - Which sculpture are they talking about? There's a sculpture - a statue of a blindfolded woman weeping tears with a set of scales on one hand and a scepter on the other, known as the Knowing Mistress - that is the subject of this moniker. This Academy of the Arts focuses more on the things that require more than just being behind a desk, like wall paintings, sculpting, and the like.
Compass Coastal Academy Cartographers - A High School with a dedicated program in cartography? Why not? Chromatika continues to surprise by having weird high school concentrations, and this is no exception. Whether they make city maps, political maps, trail maps, or any other kind of map, the graduates of this academy often times end up at one of Chromatik State University, University of the Islands, University of Wirr Tsi, or Z'ai'ai Institute of Technology to become cartographers in Chromatika.

World Bowl 44 - Matchday 7

Team            1Q  2Q  3Q  4Q  |  Tot  
Chromatika      14  10  10   7  |   41
Kohnhead        14   3   3   0  |   20

1Q
14:19 CMT TD - Alessandra Mio 76 yard pass from Sarai Gwenderyn (Dwayne Markseon Kick)
11:52 KHD TD - Herman Whitworth 18 yard run (Wanda Parkinson Kick)
06:01 CMT TD - Alessandra Mio 61 yard pass from Sarai Gwenderyn (Dwayne Markseon Kick)
04:19 KHD TD - Zachary Lewis 3 yard pass from Byron Joseph (Wanda Parkinson Kick)

2Q
13:29 KHD FG - Wanda Parkinson 41 yard Field Goal
08:41 CMT FG - Dwayne Markseon 38 yard Field Goal
01:15 CMT TD - Sarai Gwenderyn 8 yard run (Dwayne Markseon Kick)

3Q
12:51 KHD FG - Wanda Parkinson 33 yard Field Goal
09:48 CMT FG - Dwayne Markseon 49 yard Field Goal
03:20 CMT TD - Demitrius St. Pierre 15 yard pass from Sarai Gwenderyn (Dwayne Markseon Kick)

4Q
07:41 CMT TD - Lana Rhodes 30 yard run (Dwayne Markseon Kick)

Venue: EVU Field, Elephant Valley, South Newlandia

Alessandra Mio caught 6 catches for 221 yards and two scores, Sarai Gwenderyn had four scores, and the Iron Legion ran away from the Brains in the Second and Third Quarters to all but secure their spot in the Playoffs.

Chromatika, who had dropped their first game to the Brains, haven't lost since - and kept up their impressive offensive play after only scoring seventeen against United Adaikes. Mio's two touchdowns over Anne Boyer set the tone early, and though Byron Joseph and company were able to hang on for a quarter, Sarai Gwenderyn was simply too much for the Brains once more.

The Iron Legion will finish their play in the Group Stage against Mon Sold, who are surprising second placers in the group, and United Adaikes, who've actually been decent defensively.

Lightning Doesn't Strike Twice
Part 7: The Selection

Three months before the World Bowl
Chromatik City Field, Chromia, Capital District, Chromatka

Name                 XP  25L  25C  25R  30L  30C  30R  35L  35C  35R  40L  40C  40C  40R   42   45   48   50   52   54   56   57   58   59   60   61   62   63   64
Sara McAllister   10/10    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    X
Jang Bo-Ah        10/10    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    X    -    -    -    -    -    -      
Dwayne Markseon   10/10    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    X    -    -    -    - 1st Choice
Lauren Schiavonne 10/10    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    O    X    -    -    -    -    - 2nd Choice

After the second round of tryouts, with Dwayne Markseon having prevailed over Lauren Schiavonne, the two of them watched in awe as Sara McAllister proceeded to nail kicks from 61, 62, and 63 yards before finally missing from 64.

"What's your record, Coach?" asked a nervous Lauren, who could hardly believe her luck that she had beaten all the younger collegiate players to be Chromatika's backup.

"My Senior year, I nailed one from sixty-six," replied Sara, reminiscing, "That was a good day."

"Sixty-six?" mouthed Dwayne Markseon, the Northern Moravica University kicker who had won the tryout.

"Yep. Not in a game, though. In a game, I've never had to make one past fifty-nine," offered Sara.

"Welcome to the team, you two," she added, "Well done. Now, until the World Bowl, we'll go over kicking philosophy, how to read the wind, how to deal with pressure, and how to make sure that your mentality never changes."

Then, she turned to Jang Bo-Ah, the kicker who had just missed out.

"See you next year, Bo-Ah," she stated, "I'm sure you'll be back better than ever."

Jang nodded, bowed, and went out, leaving the two Iron Legion kickers with the living, breathing legend.

by **Kavanis** » Wed May 18, 2022 2:29 am

Q1
0 – 2 Safety, P1 tackled by Finnegan Spence and Labron Dorsey in end zone
0 – 8 Amanté Booker 54 yard pass from Joe Buchanan (Dom Hughes kick failed)
Q2
0 – 15 Tyndall Peterson 1 yard rush (Dom Hughes kick)
0 – 22 Allvince Carson 21 yard rush (Dom Hughes kick)
Q3
0 – 25 Dom Hughes 21 yard field goal
Q4
0 – 32 Jack Poole 93 yard interception return (Dom Hughes kick)

by **Sarzonia** » Wed May 18, 2022 5:47 am

The dour expression on the face of Sarzonian national gridball team manager was no surprise.

After all, he just expelled starting quarterback Cameron Stallworth from the team after he took part in a drugs-heavy party in violation of multiple team rules. Embarking on the final third of the group stage, and opening with No. 2 ranked Delaclava -- one of Sarzonia's archrivals across all sport -- without the man Gavin Davis was expecting to count on under centre was enough to fuck up any coach's mood.

What most observers didn't know until Davis himself blew the lid off the proceedings was that the Incorporated Gridball Federation's Board of Governors voted in an emergency meeting to rescind the expulsion. Stallworth was on a flight back to South Newlandia to rejoin the team. Not only that, but they sent an edict to Davis to return Stallworth to the starting lineup. He refused. While the Board opted not to fire Davis, he decided that with a sudden 360 in the kind of support he otherwise got for dramatic moves like the one he'd just made that he was going to decline to sign his contract for the next World Bowl.

The Board's hands were tied. Stallworth filed suit in federal court citing wrongful termination. Yes, the drugs were against team rules. Yes, missing curfew was a violation as well, and yes, both merited discipline. But the punishment for a first offence was to suspend for a half. Obviously, the coach could opt to leave a player on the bench for the entirety of the match and extend it to a full match suspension but Stallworth only had the one incident. He was remorseful, tearfully apologising to the team and Davis for getting himself involved in the party, but Davis was unmoved.

However, Davis saw the decision to block the expulsion and mandate returning Stallworth to the starting lineup was a betrayal. It would be something that would definitely be addressed during the offseason, but for right now, against one of the best teams in multiversal gridball, he would go into the match with a noodle-armed backup quarterback and scant little time to really install the kind of gameplan he would have wanted to. So how did the Stars do with Mike Barnett under centre?

Uh, not so well. The Phoenixes adjusted to the Stars' new signal caller almost immediately, building an eight-man front by walking up strong safety Patrick Catteau into the box and employing run blitzes and stunts in an effort to take away Ty'Relle Clinton as an offensive threat. The Phoenixes largely did so, limiting Clinton to 43 yards on 22 carries, and harassed Barnett into a terrible day, completing 29 passes in 54 attempts for 238 passing yards and a nine-yard touchdown to Steve Swain in garbage time. The only other offence for the Stars was a 37-yard field goal by Matt Andersen. For the Phoenixes, they survived an otherwise poor outing by Taurus Wright, who went 21-for-37 for 219 yards, one passing touchdown and a four-yard rushing score. Keiran Conley kicked a 48-yard field goal to give the Phoenixes a 17-3 lead at halftime. Delaclava made it 19-3 when left tackle Matt Frost was called for holding in the end zone.

Following the match, Davis tersely said, "we're onto Venmere," in response to nearly every question, including the ones about the Board's decision to call for the reinstatement of Stallworth. After the team returned to the hotel after a fiery speech by Davis, he was awake in his hotel room when he heard a knock on the door. To his surprise, it was offensive consultant James Arthur.

"Jim!" Davis said. "Surprised to see you here."

"I just wanted you to know I support you," Arthur said. "Even if there's a court order involved, it's not right for the Board to overrule a personnel decision like they did."

"it's way more than that," Davis said. "I know I probably overstepped when I sent Cam home, but you just don't leave the team like he did to go party and use drugs."

"I know. But if you look at it this way, what's the progressive punishment after a one-half suspension?"

"Full match," Davis said. "Then it ranges from the rest of the group stage to full on expulsion. What are you getting at?"

"Cam didn't play a single snap against Delaclava," Arthur said. "You could consider that his one-match suspension and two strikes in a three-strikes-you're-out policy. If he's really remorseful like he says he is, and like the players seem to think he is, it'll be enough to get his attention and he may become a model citizen from here on. Besides," Arthur added, punctuating his words with a point toward the general vicinity of the Delaclav team hotel, "Taurus Wright wasn't exactly a Boy Scout over there and he's still with the team."

Davis grimaced ever so slightly, but quickly saw where Arthur was going with it.

Perhaps he had to still start Stallworth, but he knew the quarterback had to realise his leash was now incredibly short. One more outing like the one that temporarily cost him a spot on the team and he would find himself next to Sam Rosen, figuratively speaking. And the Stars would have to make their adjustments to the weaker throwing arm of Barnett more permanent.

by **Venmere** » Wed May 18, 2022 7:11 am

VNAFT Thunders Past Kyhun

Nation:	Q1:	Q2:	Q3:	Q4:	F:
Venmere:	7	10	14	7	38
Kyhun:	0	0	0	0	0

Venmere cruised past Kyhun 38-0 in game 7 of this tournament. Devon Halsell threw for 375 yards and 4 touchdowns, while Dan Hubbard picked it back up by rushing for 102 yards and a score. The shutout marks Venmere's biggest win of the tournament thus far, and optimism is high.

QB Devon Halsell: 23/33, 375 yds, 4 TDs, 1 INT
RB Dan Hubbard: 14 carries, 102 yds, 1 TD
WR JT Lagow: 6 receptions, 107 yards, 2 TDs

by **Ko-oren** » Wed May 18, 2022 7:43 am

Move over, gridiron: there's a new game in town. As the one sport of the Ko-orenite Big Seven (Soccer, Gridiron, Rugby League, Rugby Union, Cricket, Baseball, Ice Hockey) that ignored its commercial aspect and now sees its fanbase and even playerbase plummeting as a result, the Ko-orenite Baseball League is reforming.

This has been coming for a while.

The only way for the baseball organisations not to tear themselves apart - big markets versus small markets, Yoshima versus Finisterre, Leleia versus the rest of Yoshima, new fans on the mainland versus old fans in Yoshima/Finisterre - was to relinquish control to something else. The rifts even led to the national team pulling out of the World Baseball Classic, with its players returning to their clubs for another tumultuous season full of uncertainty. Players have been threatening to strike for a while over stagnating wages, while the fans threaten not to go to games over club owners moving teams into wildly speculative areas without baseball fans, while owners threaten to move those teams. The only way to reconcile anything here, is by giving control to an outside party, benevolent and economically sound. The obvious group to ask was the LPB.

And the LPB said yes.

That is, if the Ko-orenite clubs were okay with several changes. The LPB made it very clear that not everyone was going to be happy, but that everyone would be equally inconvenienced, where possible. The immensely impopular moves of the Admirals to Intermare and the Wanderers to Aminey were overturned - Aviansola has its Admirals back. Then, the wage structure and other financial details were all evaluated and made to proper standards. The three-division system was implemented, pitting the rivals against one another far more often. Yoshima will get eight clubs, Finisterre will go up from two to three.

Not everyone will be happy, as advertised. Western Leleia had both the Quarry and the Silvers, and they're losing the former to the Northern division, turning into the Furune Bees. Some names were already taken: Teragaseki will go from Dynamo to the Originals, a nod to a since extinct team of a Ko-orenite baseball league of old. The same goes for the Arakura Knights, who surprisingly do get to keep their team in town, but they'll be the Chariots instead. The Echizen Dragons, clashing with the Masmow Dragons, refuse to give up their name - at least, for now.

The Ko-orenite delegation will help out the teams in Super-Llamaland and South Newlandia in several areas as well: not only is the vital Anaian market partially in their control now, they also have a bigger influx of players, given how many Ko-orenite players were in the league to begin with. There's going to be help in the data department as well, though the Ko-orenite contingent has said that it wants to cause minimal changes to the structure of the LPB.

What immediately catches the eye is how dominant the southern division's teams are. All of them have a huge fanbase to pander to: the Generals and the Giants are the biggest markets in baseball, even if they are from the same city, but Aviansola represents the entire eastern half of the island, while Nitoya captures the west. The West is a toss-up: the Stars and Whales have huge followings, the Wanderers should match them within a few years, and the Challengers are, well, a gamble. There are many fans in that area, but the distances are big and the Challengers aren't a household name there yet. The north has some of the oldest clubs, though not as well followed as the southern ones. The Dragons and Originals each claim their entire islands, the Bees are a new addition to Furune, a large city with a small sports footprint. Arakura is the people's club with a cult all over the country, no matter how bad results get (and they get bad).

The LPB is providing a lifeline to Ko-orenite baseball - it's now or never.

Gridiron coverage to resume shortly.

by **Delaclava** » Wed May 18, 2022 10:03 am

DSGN.com Football

Delaclava back in playoffs after winning Stars trilogy
Solid performances from Wright, Dias lead Phoenixes

The Delaclava national football team is in the playoffs of the World Bowl for the fourth competition in a row after defeating Sarzonia 19-10 at Jecken Arena in Newport, South Newlandia.

"It's not the end goal, of course," said coach Frank Newman, "but it's something that we can check off our list. We have two more games to try out different tactics and players and make sure we're as sharp as possible for the playoffs. It's a fortunate position to have."

The Phoenixes were led in their effort by a productive day from Taurus Wright, who gained 219 yards through the air on 21-of-37 passing and 78 yards on the ground from 13 carries. The Phoenixes led 17-3 at halftime after a Wright 4-yard rushing touchdown and a 9-yard passing score from Wright to Robbie Hahn. On the other side of the ball, Vagner Dias had a breakthrough day as part of a defensive performance that saw the Phoenixes shut down Ty'Relle Clinton, who was crucial to the Stars' 13-3 victory in their last meeting, and replacement quarterback Mike Barnett. Dias was responsible for 12 tackles, three for loss, and one forced fumble.

"Our defense has been spectacular this season," said Newman. "There are so many new players to the team who have made huge contributions. And for them to respond after a tough game against Venmere and shut down a better offense today, it speaks volumes that they're ready to handle the rigors of this competition."

And Newman was equally complimentary to his star quarterback.

"The kid's a gamer. We've faced this team how many times and he keeps finding new ways to beat them when they're throwing everything they can his way. It's not about having a perfect day; it's doing the little things right and executing on the big plays. His level of preparation and recommitment to the game and this team over the past couple of years is well-documented and it makes such a big difference for us. And his leadership is good for everyone - having young guys like Charlie (Coffin), Christian (Gooden), Luke (Mussett), Dias, more guys than I can name who are just a few years pro, and one of the big reasons they're able to step up and perform is because they're bought into our culture and Taurus is a great influence on that."

Newman floated the possibility that Michael Willis and even Stafford Thomas may see some action behind center in Delaclava's next two games against Kyhun and Venmere.

"Our goal now is to be ready for the playoffs. We're not going easy, not by any stretch. Michael is a top-5 quarterback in the world, no question, and Stafford is a big talent. But we want everyone to get some reps and get off the field, keep everyone healthy and fresh."

And the Phoenixes also want to make sure they enjoy South Newlandia as much as they can.

"We feel very at home here," said Willis. "We have a good itinerary staying in Ratzupalfu and seeing the rest of the country for our games. It's very familiar for us to take the train and get to anywhere we need to go. There's a lot of natural beauty in Ratzupalfu especially and it's been a wonderful setting for us to rest and focus. I mean, where else can you just see elephants out your window? It's a refreshing perspective; we have a lot of big goals but we're more than happy to be playing this game here."

by **Ranoria** » Wed May 18, 2022 11:06 am

World Bowl 44, Week 7
Pittsburgh, Ranoria
Ranoria vs Lisander, Adelhard Dynamics Dome

John Garrett glanced up at the playclock as he called his audible - not enough time to go through the whole thing, but a minor adjustment, sure. "Z Nine! Z Nine!" He looked to Isaak Rodriguez, who shot him a thumbs up to indicate he'd gotten the audible.

"Seeet hut!" Garrett took the snap, looked to Farmer on an out first to draw the defense, then turned and pulled his arm back to burn them over the top... only Rodriguez wasn't there. He stepped up into the pocket and brought the ball down at the same time, only for some brute of a defensive tackle to push his lineman back at the same time, tangling up their legs and happening to hit the ball with a stray helmet.

Garrett cursed as it slipped from his grasp, but a pass rusher was already diving on it before he even found the loose pigskin. Of course he dove in anyway - no coach wants to see their quarterback at the bottom of that kind of pile, but back home they didn't raise boys to give up on a play.

After a brief tussle and some shoving, Lisander took possession with just minutes to play. John ripped his chin strap off in frustration, stalking back to the sideline alongside his childhood best friend in Johnny Farmer, and the Krauts didn't have enough timeouts to stop them from kneeling it out.

"No more of this garbage," he swore to the tight end, "We're getting this right, and we're getting it right starting now."

@VickHamiltonReporter Ranoria's offense is on life support as they take a second group stage loss - speculation that they turn to Valliente Wagner-Young #RumorMill #World Bowl

Where Are The Points!? Ranoria Drops Another Game, Clings To One Win Lead In Group A

Linebacker Ross Monarch - 2nd on the team in tackles in the midst of his retirement tour - looks on after a John Garrett fumble in the fourth quarter seals Ranoria's loss to Lisander

Sometimes everything goes wrong. From Sean Morgan-Horne running into Judas Wolfson on a post route in the first quarter to allow an early touchdown to both John Garrett and Vice Jackson III fumbling in the second half to take away chances to win the game, that's exactly what happened in our rematch with Lisander.

This was a far cry from the 41-28 shootout of a week 1 matchup between these two teams, one that was more competitive even than the score would have you think, and the Lynx showed up ready to play. At 1-5, they were massive underdogs to Ranoria's 5-1 squad in Angelo Gordon's homefield of Adelhard Dynamics Dome. But you know what they say about trap games.

"We'll figure it out. We're playing against world-class competition, we can't blow everyone out.

John Garrett after being asked a week ago about Ranoria's offensive struggles during this World Bowl.

Well, they didn't. Raul Nieler is one of the foremost offensive minds in Ranorian football, and he has a man who's likely to go down as the best Ranorian quarterback to ever do it - so what's happening? Besides the more ornery fans calling to put Northern Moravica legend Wagner-Young in, of course.

For christ's sake, we're not benching John Garrett. Any of you who even think that's a possibility need a reality check. Someone escort this clown out of here.

Head Coach Raul Nieler after being asked if John Garrett would be benched for his "lackluster" performances. For those curious, security did indeed...kindly ask the journalist to leave the premises.

It's hard to point the finger away from our beloved Farmboy - who tossed his third interception of the campaign - at this point. The backbone of a team that's won two straight championships has not played up to his standard throughout World Bowl 44, a massive disappointment for a fanbase watching the first international tournament our nation has hosted. After averaging 2.7 touchcowns per game in World Bowl 43, Farmboy's down to under 2.5, and despite a slight uptick in yards per game has thrown an uncharacteristic 3 interceptions in just 7 outings. The slip in production is alarming, and some are looking at his dominant, record-shattering RFL season as the reason. "Regression towards the mean" some say. "Fatigue" cry others, who speculate that his arm needs a break. But to be fair, Garrett's never been as dominant as the late Derek McNair during the group stage.

Former Krauts starter Derek McNair led two perfect group stages during his tenure, John Garrett has failed to meet that mark with now five losses in the past three tournaments on that front. However, in our last victory he did break Derek McNair's overall win total. McNair was 31-15-1 overall with just two playoff wins in his tenure, where Garrett is currently 32-7 with 7 playoff wins. Notably, he's done that in just 39 games under center as opposed to McNair's 47. Couple in those championships, and there's now no doubt that he's the best of the three starting quarterbacks the team has entered the season with. (No, we are not implying we'd take Baker Owens or - god forbid - Jeremiah Quill over Farmboy)

But that makes it all the more perplexing that he hasn't been able to run the table in the group stage. Of course, as long as he keeps bringing home the gold, there will be nothing much to criticize him for. But if he doesn't...well, the 33 year old's injury history may just be starting to catch up with him after all.

Fortunately, based on the talent around him, he should get out of this slump soon. Johnny Farmer - with 7 touchdowns in as many games - is still one of the most dominant weapons in the sport and hasn't slowed down a bit despite rumors of just that. Coming off an 89 catch domestic season that saw him lead the league - again - in touchdown catches, we can't say we're surprised. With 137 scoring catches in his RFL career, he's Ranoria's all-time leader on that front by a wide margin. Even if he were to slow down, don't expect that part of his game to ever disappear.

"Ya'll always gotta find something to criticize" said Farmer at a post game presser, "We have the best quarterback in the world. A lot of these teams peak too early. Look at TJUN-ia or Delaclava last season - undefeated only to bomb out in the playoffs. We're working out the kinks in our offense now, and sooner rather than later we'll really open up that playbook."

One of the best players in football - anywhere, any era - has said his peace. But with a looming potential matchup with Ko-oren, does anyone really believe what we've shown will be enough to advance?

QB John Garrett: 191/290, 2,158 yards, 16 TD, 3 INT, 6 carries, 36 yards 1/1 fumbles/lost
QB Valliente Wagner-Young: 3/3, 29 yards

HB Vice Jackson III: 110 carries, 507 yards, 6 TD, 19 receptions, 114 yards, 1/1 fumbles/lost
HB Apollo Esther: 56 carries, 272 yards, 3 TD, 4 receptions, 19 yards
HB Eric van Geel: 14 carries, 62 yards, 17 receptions, 124 yards

TE Johnny Farmer: 49 receptions, 567 yards, 7 TD
TE Vasily Schmidt: 16 receptions, 153 yards, 2 TD
WR Khalil Hauptmann: 47 receptions, 652 yards, 4 TD
WR Jeremiah Flether: 28 receptions, 334 yards, 2 TD
WR Isaak Rodriguez: 12 receptions, 222 yards, 1 TD

ILB Ross Monarch: 41 tackles, .5 sacks, 5 TFL
OLB Sean Morgan-Horne: 39 tackles, 1INT, 1 PBU
OLB Django Reeves: 38 tackles, 2.5 sack, 4 TFL

DE Gideon Kearse: 36 tackles, 6.5 sacks, 8 TFL, 3 PBU
DE Abram Fairbanks: 30 tackles, 7 sacks, 4 TFL, 3 PBU
DE Albus Vergol: 11 tackles, 1.5 sack, 1 TFL
DE Angelo Gordon: 12 tackles, 4 sacks
DT Gudbrand Taurus: 12 tackles, 2.5 sacks, 3 TFL
DT Spencer Crutchfield: 9 tackles, , .5 sacks, 3 TFL

CB Darnell Sleight: 35 tackles, 1 INT, 4 PBU
CB Jabyess Hawkins: 39 tackles, 2 INT, 3 PBU
FS Alexander Ackermann: 38 tackles, 1 INT
SS Judas Wolfson: 51 tackles, 4 TFL, 2 INT

by **South Newlandia** » Wed May 18, 2022 12:37 pm

Day eight cutoff for Groups A-D! Just two games left; time to throw everything in that you have left! Music

Teams in blue are guranteed a spot in the Round of 16, while teams in red are out of the running for the knockouts.

Group A

Anthor 16–16 Ranoria (23–16 OT)
South Americanastan 31–34 Lisander

P Group A              Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Anthor                 8   5  3  179 188  −9    0.625
2 Ranoria                8   5  3  205 167 +38    0.625
3 Lisander               8   3  5  152 184 −32    0.375
4 South Americanastan    8   3  5  173 170  +3    0.375

Group B

TJUN-ia 13–3 Theofficialjapan
Rocky Canada 20–34 HUElavia

P Group B              Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 TJUN-ia                8   7  1  189 128 +61    0.875
2 HUElavia               8   6  2  220 147 +73    0.750
3 Rocky Canada           8   3  5  167 174  −7    0.375
4 Theofficialjapan       8   0  8   88 215 −127   0.000

Group C

Kriegiersien 3–30 StrayaRoos
Drawkland 25–34 Gyatso-kai

P Group C              Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Drawkland              8   5  3  238 138 +100   0.625
2 Gyatso-kai             8   5  3  198 213 −15    0.625
3 Kriegiersien           8   4  4  173 190 −17    0.500
4 StrayaRoos             8   2  6  171 239 −68    0.250

Group D

Ko-oren 17–0 Bendicon
Greater Cebu 9–32 New Gesem

P Group D              Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Ko-oren                8   7  1  175  67 +108   0.875
2 New Gesem              8   6  2  232 129 +103   0.750
3 Bendicon               8   2  6  116 197 −81    0.250
4 Greater Cebu           8   1  7   97 227 −130   0.125

by **Gyatso-kai** » Wed May 18, 2022 1:11 pm

╚╗BETWEEN THE UPRIGHTS╔╝
A Multi-Part Series of the History of Avatarian Gridiron/Gaan’shuk

Written by Akaan BEROYA

Why gridiron?

It was the question on everyone’s mind when it was announced back in 2021.3 that the Avatarian Republics of Gyatso-kai – renowned the multiverse over for their prowess in ice hockey and their mediocrity in football – would be forming a delegation of collegiate and (arguably) professional gridiron players from a fledgling Republic Gridiron/Gaan’shuk League and sending them of to the Commonwealth of Baker Park for the AO Bowl Gridiron Championship. This tournament, which ran congruent to multiple other regional tournaments – including the AOCAF which saw the first successful tournament campaign of the Bisons, reaching the Quarterfinals and losing on penalty kicks – was set to be broadcasted on every station under the ASPN umbrella.

So again, the question is, ‘Why gridiron?’

A BRIEF HISTORY

The history of gridiron in Gyatso-kai is far from luxurious or even remotely vast. Though, ‘complicated’ could be used to describe what is arguably the least popular of the ‘professional sports’ in the Avatarian Republics.

The first game of Gridiron ever played in Gyatso-kai has been lost to time and obscurity. There is no documentation that shows the game having either originated in any particular area of the Avatarian Republics, so it is very likely the game was brought to our islands by travellers. Given the name of the game in Mando’a – Gaan’shuk – is literally translated as “hand game” and is derived from a similar Mandalorian traditional game known as get’shuk, it is likely the game was brought home by Mandalorian mercenaries and raiders from any number of the multi-versal nations that they travelled to, and was adapted to fit the local cultures.

The first mention of a ‘national team’ for gridiron was back in 2012.2, in which a team comprised of similar individuals – gathered from the myriad of college and semi-professional leagues in the Republics 0 – was sent to Michael VII for the Eleventh Edition of the Baptism of Iron; a tournament for nations first appearing in the World Bowl. The team back then, still known as the Boarcupines, faired poorly, winning a single game 35-14 against Ebanteos. This team would make an appearance at the Seventeenth Edition of the World Bowl, which would see these same Boarqupines be an absolute embarrassm\ent to the entire nation, going 1-9 and finishing with a -178 Point Differential.

The tournament at the time earned the domestic nickname ‘The Slaughter of the Boarqupines’

The performance of the national team at the time was so horrific that the National Sports Council representative for Gridiron – Guy Li, an investor who wanted to bring professional gridiron into a new age in Gyatso-kai – was so appalled that he announced on the eve of the league’s debut that the entire operation of the league would cease and all investments would need to be ‘re-evalutated’. The league, known as the Gridiron League of Gyatso-kai (GLG) was comprised of ten teams that had been pulled from the four semi-professional leagues around the Republics and brought into one system. The eventual plan was to use a system of promotion and relegation similar to many of the multi-verse’s football leagues, where the semi-professional leagues would have playoffs where the top two teams would find themselves competing in the GLG, while the two lowest teams in the GLG would be sent down for a season in the semi-professional leagues; the Avatarian Gridiron League, the Developmental Gridiron Association of Gyatso-kai, the Republic Professional Gridiron League, and the-then Mandalorian Gaan’shuk Association, all of which have since folded and fell into remote obscurity. This sudden disgust would be a nail in the coffin for professional gridiron in Gyatso-kai…

Gridiron would continue to be a sport played as Division II in Avatarian colleges and universities for the next thirty ji.

But from the coffin, the undead eventually rise up…

Fast forward to 2020.1, and Guy Li would make a sudden reappearance during an ASPN broadcast. He would first be seen at an Ice Bisons exhibition game, seated next to several of the more elite members who sit on the National Sports Council; most notable Kad Skirata, of Ice Hockey infamy. While very little of their conversations were recorder or even overheard by media, one sound bit that made it to the ASPN news report was of Skirata laughing and saying, “A lot has changed my friend.” To which Li retorted, “Then why not change even more?”

And Skirata was right; a great deal had changed since Li’s last attempt at bringing Gridiron to the people of Gyatso-kai. For starters, the national teams for Ice Hockey and Football had cemented their dominance of Avatarian Sports, with Pro-Bending coming into their prime and earning its own building at the National Sports Complex. ASPN hardly covered any other sport – collegiate lacross, basketball, even field hockey all fought for airtime on what many opponents of the dominance called “Ice Hockey and Football Network” and as for professional leagues, there were quite a few candidates vying for NSC funding. A fledgling Quidditch league would be forming in the recesses of Avatarian culture; having gone to two World Cups and garnished quite a bit of viewership, the National Sports Council had all but signed the deal for the “Quidditch League of Gyatso-kai” when Li came forward with his own plan for the now-Republic Gridiron League. Though, thanks to support from several Mandalorian investors, the name “Gridiron” would be substituted out for the Mandalorian name of the sport in initial announcements, as well as in the official name when the League would finally go live in 2020.3.

Just how the league formed up… well that’s in the next installment…

by **Banija** » Wed May 18, 2022 1:32 pm

The Coulibaly Corner: Your one stop shop for everything college football!

Hey guys! Welcome back to my corner of the internet for everything college football! I, of course, usually cover the NSCF, especially the two Banijan schools, as well as domestic college football here in Banija. I'm a University of Moravica grad- aka, we don't like either of the Banijan schools. But of course, due to physical proximity, they get the Lion's share of this blog's attention.

Yet again, I decided I was in another good mood. Let's make things interesting here.

During this World Bowl, we're going to take a deep dive into college football. But not the NSCF as it currently exists.

Loyola-Istria and Northern Moravica were, of course, the obvious choices to enter the NSCF from Banija. Long Banija's twin dominant programs, it could be argued that they had outgrown the domestic scene. And the sport is better off for it, both domestically and abroad. 7 different schools have a national championship in the 10 seasons since the Banijan schools left home for a second time, in NSCF 17. But what if things went differently?

What if those two schools decided that they wanted to continue their dominance. What if schools who weren't Banija's biggest brands entered the NSCF instead? What would have happened? We're going to do a fun thought experiment- what if, instead of NMU and ULI entering the NSCF, the University of Moravica(my alma mater! Yay!) and another school entered the NSCF? What if that school was... The University of Hangaza? The two big northern state schools?

"What If" Series- U of M and U of H over ULI and NMU

Why These Schools?

Of course, I suggested the University of Moravica because they're my alma mater. That much is clear.

But in seriousness, there were quite a few Banijan schools back then that were interested in moving on to NSCF competition. And one of those schools, of course, was the University of Moravica Golden Bears. "Look- our own brand as a football team was being overshadowed by sharing a state with both NMU and Loyola-Istria." The University's athletic director said at the time. "We saw the NSCF as a potential opportunity for us to separate ourselves within the country, and try to change the conversation around the sport in Moravica, and around the University." Obviously, he failed. But what if?

There were 6 schools that were publicly confirmed as interested- the University of Moravica were the first school to publicly express interest. Then, Kizza I College, Zawadi University, and the University of Hangaza. Once both halves of the North v. South Showdown were publicly confirmed as interested, of course, the discussion was over. But what if they hadn't expressed interest? There's decent reason to believe that U of M and U of H would have been voted in by the BCSG.

It's hard to really diagnose these things, especially all these years later. Who knows? Kizza I College would've had a pretty decent shot. Zawadi would've never had a prayer.

How would the early years have gone?

Those early years- NSCFs 12-14. Of course, they went about as well as they could have for the Banijan schools. Northern Moravica won two Celestia Conference titles, Loyola-Istria won one, and got a Pioneer Bowl victory, as well as a NSCF Championship, to go with it. Would Moravica and Hangaza have been that successful?

The answer is likely no.

Both programs were decent at the time, but were not worldbeaters. If we're being honest? If they both entered in NSCF 12, Moravica probably wins the Celestia in NSCF 12. But NSCFs 13 and 14? We'd put Vietussia Academy as the favorites. No title-hunting yet. Would say Moravica probably could get a second at-large appearance. What about Hangaza? It's hard to say. They had a losing record at home in the seasons coinciding with NSCFs 13 and 14. But does everything change if they are in the NSCF? The recruiting probably improves, which improves results on the field- but, of course, so does the competition.

How different would the yank-back be?

We're going to say that it doesn't happen at all! The reason the BCSG pulled the two Banijan schools, Loyola-Istria and Northern Moravica, back to domestic gridiron, was because they felt Banija's big schools had built such a massive advantage, both on and off the field, that they would never be able to compete again. But if Moravica has a couple of playoff appearances, and Hangaza has none, maybe 1? They aren't coming out, stunning the college football world and the domestic world by blasting out to a title. Hell, at that point, ULI and NMU might still have the better actual squads.

So there is no yank back.

When does a Banijan school win their first title?

That's hard to say! Let's move to NSCF 17. That would be potential Year 6 for the Banijan schools. Probably that's the time when Moravica and Hangaza have a long enough time for NSCF-level recruiting to bear out, and one of them would be good enough to win a title. Probably Moravica? Although I'm biased, of course. That seems like the year. There's talent here, and it'd probably take that long for the best talent in the country to get it into their heads to go to Moravica and Hangaza.

How many titles do the Banijan schools have?

We're gonna go with 2. Moravica in NSCF 17, Hangaza in NSCF 22. We're really spitballing here, right? It's hard to say. But it could change everything. Richardson probably wins one in NSCF 19. Cold Hill may go back to back in NSCFs 20 and 21. Those back to back titles could cause Diamond Rhine to go pro early, and then Hangaza rises up and wins the NSCF 22 championship. Each of the two Banijan schools has a ring, and the Celestia is a much more competitive place.

Would Banija's Big 2 ever get in on the action?

That's the ultimate question. Of course, there would never be four Banijan schools allowed in the NSCF. So this question is- would the Big 2 move to replace them? And then would they be able to pull it off? At some point, they'd probably want some of that NSCF money. But how big could the Moravica brand grow? Could they ever overtake ULI and NMU? That's the question of the day. The answer? Is probably not. But potentially big enough to fight off some sort of coup.

I may be biased here, yes. But I think the NSCF would be enough for Moravica and Hangaza to stay in, just barely, with the support of the Banijan schools. It'd change everything about the sport in this country. It'd be unrecognizeable. No more NMU v Loyola in the NSCF? No Rebel's Cannon Bowl? What kind of rivalries would form?

All sorts of things could happen. And that's what we call this the "What If" Series.

by **Kriegiersien** » Wed May 18, 2022 3:07 pm

by **TJUN-ia** » Wed May 18, 2022 3:27 pm

After a comeback win over Rocky Canada in Rouyoutte, the Jaguars of TJUN-ia were 6-1 and had guaranteed a spot into the Playoffs with two more games to spare. It was certainly nice, all things considered, to get that out of the way and despite how some of our wins have been tighter than anyone would've wanted, 6-1 was still 6-1 and that had to be remembered first and foremost. Gus McKerrin certainly knew that this campaign was a bit weird, but 6-1 was, again, still 6-1. That still had to be defended and that that will be defended, come what may.

The Karmin-Falce Superdome in Ranoria City was the host of TSU's NSCF moment in the spotlight and here, with pink armbands on sleeves, the Jaguars hoped for a better result against Theofficaljapan, a team yet to score a single win as of yet and that fact certainly would not change today. At least they scored a FG in this contest as they try to end their season with some sort of dignity. As for us, we didn't score big numbers but we still did enough to win out in the end, with 2 TDs from Jake Griffin (both via Vinny Mac) and 1/2 on PATs from Chi On-Ma. That was all that was needed to move to 7-1 - unconvincing, but still 7-1 and all the same.

HUElavia won the first leg at theirs. TJUN-ia won the 2nd in New Washington. Now, these two must face off one more time - at Mount Reinhold Stadium in Eglise - with both this series and the group as a whole on the line. The winner will take it all...so expect fireworks to end this group off in style. GO JAGS!

SCHEDULE (Group B)
MD1: @Rocky Canada (UR) W 27-16 (2nd/1-0)
MD2: vs Theofficaljapan (UR) - Field of Dreams in The Gardens, New Washington W 29-19 (2nd/2-0)
MD3: @HUElavia (17) L 10-29 (2nd/2-1/+2PD)
-------------------------Break-------------------------
MD4: vs Rocky Canada (UR) - Field of Dreams in The Gardens, New Washington W 36-31 (2nd/3-1)
MD5: @Theofficaljapan (UR) W 14-3 (2nd/4-1)
MD6: vs HUElavia (17) - Field of Dreams in The Gardens, New Washington W 44-13 (1st/5-1/+49PD)
-------------------------Break-------------------------
MD7: vs Rocky Canada (UR) - Royalty Field, Rouyoutte, Ranoria W 16-14 (1st/6-1/Playoffs Confirmed)
MD8: vs Theofficaljapan (UR) - Karmin-Falce Superdome, Ranoria City, Ranoria W 13-3 (1st/7-1)
MD9: vs HUElavia (17) - Mount Reinhold Stadium, Eglise, Ranoria

by **Kavanis** » Wed May 18, 2022 4:07 pm

Are your teens texting about handegg? Decoding the meaning of some common phrases for parents.

"PAWG"

"4/20 blaze it"

"need me some of that fb bussy"

"eggplant emoji"

"sonic inflation"

by **Saint Kanye** » Wed May 18, 2022 5:26 pm

"We've done it. We've completed the sweep. Congrats to our boys, but congrats also to our opponents - they seem to have been improving every time we meet. Looks like we're gonna have to work even harder than we do now if we meet them in another Bowl. Now it's on to the last two games - really tough ones, if you ask me. I never expected this group to be the Group of Death, to be honest, but it is what it is."

Those were the words of St. Kanye Surge head coach Jeff Delphine after his squad defeated the team from the State of Imperial Russia for the third time in the World Bowl 44 group stages. Quarterback R.J. Linetti had one passing and one rushing touchdown in the 19-13 victory that saw the Surge improve to 5-2 and hold on to the top spot in Group H. "No time for slacking though, since it's the [Quebec and Shingoryeo] Reapers and [South Newlandia] Elephants next, and those are two teams that beat us big," Linetti said. "However, we did beat them big in our other meetings, so that's the Surge that we hope to bring."

1Q STK field goal Rasputin 52 STK 3-0
The boys in purple got their first points of the match from a long kick by James Rasputin that looked almost effortless.

1Q STK Jeffers 16 pass from Linetti (Rasputin kick) STK 10-0
Linetti's 49-yard pass to Deshawn Fredericks went incomplete, but pass interference was the call, and the Surge were able to march into the red zone. While there, all it took was a sixteen-yard strike to tight end Hussein Jeffers and a Rasputin PAT for the lead to grow to ten.

2Q SIR WR1 38 pass from QB1 (K kick) STK 10-7
A touchdown pass by the Imperial Russians allowed them to cut their deficit back to three before halftime.

3Q STK Safety, Blake tackled RB1 in end zone STK 12-7
Rookie right end Ryan Blake decided to show the Ranorian league scouts just what he brings to the table, bursting through the Imperial Russian offensive line and taking down their running back for a safety.

4Q STK Linetti 31 run (Rasputin kick) STK 19-7
Faced with third and 26 late in the fourth quarter, Linetti dropped back for a long bomb. Bruce Dobler, Patrick Moore and Taylor Johns were all covered, though, so he decided to keep the ball and run with it, not only for the first down but all the way for the touchdown. A Rasputin extra point later, and the Surge were now up by a dozen, their largest lead all day.

4Q SIR TE1 24 pass from QB1 (Two-point conversion failed) STK 19-13
SIR tried to rally in the last two minutes, but to no avail. They got another touchdown, only for the Yeezies to break up the pass for the two-point conversion. They got the onside kick, but an Aidan O'Connor interception sealed the deal for St. Kanye with 34 seconds remaining.

In the other Group H clash, the Elephants outlasted the Reapers 30-28. That put St. Kanye and SNL both at 5-2, but with the former having the edge on head to head, while the Quebecois drop to 4-3. "Still, anything can happen," Coach Delphine said. "It's crucial we win both series against them to break all possible ties." Elsewhere....

- In Group A, the Lisander Lynx (2-5) pull off the upset and take down defending champs and co-hosts the Ranoria Krauts (5-2), the final score being a close 30-24.
- In Group B, the TJUN-ia Jaguars (6-1) recorded a comeback win over Rocky Canada (3-4); it was also a close one, 16-14.
- In Group C, the Gyatso-kai Boarcupines (4-3) won 37-16 over the StrayaRoos Taipans (1-6), ending the latter's playoff hopes.
- In Group D, the Ko-oren Dragonflies (6-1) prevailed over already eliminated Greater Cebu (1-6) by a score of 28-17. "Kinda strange to see Ko-oren scoring high and being, well, exciting," said Surge running back Noah Sherman.
- In Group E, the Kavanis Kumquats (3-4) dominated Abanhfleft (2-5), winning 32-nil in one of only two shutouts of the day.
- In Group F, Venmere (3-4) recorded the other shutout, 38-nil over Kyhun (0-7).
- In Group G, the United Adaikes Scorpions (1-6) finally broke into the win column, surviving a close one, 21-16, against the Mon Sold Strikers (4-3).

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| MD | Opponent                     | Rank | Uniform       | Score   | Record | Place |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| 1  | State of Imperial Russia     | UR   | Purple/Purple | W 25- 0 |  1-0   |  1st  |
| 2  | Quebec and Shingoryeo        | 27   | Purple/Black  | W 53-17 |  2-0   |  1st  |
| 3  | @South Newlandia             | 12   | White/Purple  | L  9-35 |  2-1   |  1st  |
|    | BREAK                        |      |               |         |        |       |
| 4  | @State of Imperial Russia    | UR   | White/White   | W 26-10 |  3-1   |  1st  |
| 5  | @Quebec and Shingoryeo       | 27   | White/Purple  | L  6-20 |  3-2   |  2nd  |
| 6  | South Newlandia              | 12   | Purple/Purple | W 63-16 |  4-2   |  1st  |
|    | BREAK                        |      |               |         |        |       |
| 7  | State of Imperial Russia (N) | UR   | Purple/Black  | W 19-13 |  5-2   |  1st  |
| 8  | Quebec and Shingoryeo (N)    | 27   | Purple/Purple |         |        |       |
| 9  | South Newlandia (N)          | 12   | White/White   |         |        |       |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

by **Ranoria** » Wed May 18, 2022 6:44 pm

Cutoff for the Ranorian Half! Who's going to crumble under the lights as we go into the final stages?

Group E

Abanhfleft 7–36 Banija
Kavanis 25–0 Bongo Johnson

P Group E               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
1 Banija                  8    7   1   335  169 +166    0.875
2 Kavanis                 8    4   4   226  201  +25    0.500
3 Bongo Johnson           8    3   5   134  210  −76    0.375
4 Abanhfleft              8    2   6   141  256 −115    0.250

Banija has won the group

Group F

Group F
Venmere 0–17 Sarzonia
Kyhun 9–33 Delaclava

P Group F               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
1 Delaclava               8    7   1   217   89 +128    0.875
2 Sarzonia                8    6   2   160   65  +95    0.750
3 Venmere                 8    3   5   151  123  +28    0.375
4 Kyhun                   8    0   8    35  286 −251    0.000

Delaclava and Sarzonia have clinched a playoff berth

Group G

United Adaikes 28–33 Kohnhead
Mon Sold 20–31 Chromatika

P Group G               Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
1 Chromatika              8    7   1   275  157 +118    0.875
2 Mon Sold                8    4   4   203  229  −26    0.500
3 Kohnhead                8    4   4   251  237  +14    0.500
4 United Adaikes          8    1   7   115  221 −106    0.125

Chromatika has won the group

Group H

State of Imperial Russia 13–26 South Newlandia
Saint Kanye 42–14 Quebec and Shingoryeo

P Group H                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD    Win % 
1 Saint Kanye                 8    6   2   243  125 +118    0.750
2 South Newlandia             8    6   2   218  208  +10    0.750
3 Quebec and Shingoryeo       8    4   4   180  196  −16    0.500
4 State of Imperial Russia    8    0   8   105  217 −112    0.000

South Newlandia and Saint Kanye have qualified for the playoffs

by **Quebec and Shingoryeo** » Thu May 19, 2022 2:53 am

OOC:
1. The biggest piece out of 3 for today's RP. I'll be adding HRH Alexandre and Claire Lundrigan's part on a separate post later in the day, as it's almost 6am here.
2. This specific Cabinet scene does not entail any kind of IC action or commitment at this time, and may end up being a fluff of words without any action.
3. For Ran: This RP post should be treated as provisional for now, as I await any changes that may need to be made during the day.

Cabinet Room, 11 Gwangmoo Boulevard, Joongyeong (Quebec City)

Prime Minister Arsene Pineau Kim and his third ministry, a joint NPD-PJLQ cabinet, quickly gathered themselves to discuss the latest the current events in Cassadaigua. On one hand, Her Majesty's Cabinet were pleased to know that their ten-day state visit to the Vatmarkian nation, one that's considered of high significance, were going to proceed accordingly in a month's time. But the latest news from Concord Heights involving the succession crisis were not something that they had really answers or excitement over, and the complicated nature of the situation involving Joongyeong, where Christine II reigned and Queen Nathalie, the grandmother of the Quebecois monarch, was referred as the 'Grandmother of Rushmore', was still alive, though visibly in declining conditions.

While the Cabinet had long heard from their Prime Minister and their close allies at the Palais Royale that their Queen favoured her sister-in-law, she also had particular reservations to leave her public opinions on the matter due to reasons not limited to, but factoring in the education of the Seja (Crown Prince). This was something that Her Majesty's Cabinet, who had stayed in favourable terms with her, had to take note, and thus a meeting was held in middle of 11 Gwangmoo Boulevard, the Prime Ministerial residence and office.

Arsene Kim called the meeting to order. 'Order, order,' he said, all the chatter evaporating before his eyes as the cabinet members, exactly twenty-three in number and of varied age groups, became quiet. 'Welcome to this meeting. As we are all here to know, we have two matters to discuss- the ongoing succession crisis in Quebec, and what Her Majesty had asked us about, specifically regarding the matters of concern.' Everybody, knowing what their topic of discussion were, nodded along to the topic. 'Of course, with the history and the values of our institutions to those on the other side of the ocean, especially considering our country's reputation as the in-laws of Rushmore, which extends all the way to the tiniest hamlets of Cabo Azure, it is something to consider. So let's start with that.'

The Prime Minister continued. 'As far as it stands, the current situation may appear a mere family squabble with our interests, whether that of the Cabinet or the Opposition, on both sides. But the situation proves to be lot more complicated, especially when we consider that the situation there involves the Royal House. It is true that Concord Heights has full control over how the nation's governed and run, which differentiates it from here or Metropolis or even Busukuma.

'So yes, we will be looking at the situation carefully over the course of the state visit, where two-hundred people, some ministerial, some businesspeople and others of distinguished backgrounds, heading to cities of Brattleboro and Concord Heights.' He then noticed that Julien Hamon-Lizotte, the Foreign Affairs Secretary notorious for Anaia-skeptic stance, raised his hand. 'Yes. Minister Hamon-Lizotte, please.'

'Arsene, please excuse me here, but how many privy councilors, specifically those of the House of Lords, will be attending this state visit?' asked Julien Hamon-Lizotte, a balding man with grey suits and a beer belly in his forties. 'And will there be any who can advise the Courts of the Palace there?'

'As far as concerned, twelve councilors which includes four members of the Successions Committee involved in reviewing the Order of Succession set by the Royal Successions Act of year 1789 under Catherine the First (posthumously titled Queen Taejong).' Arsene answered, remembering the details from the extensive list that had to be confirmed the previous evening.

'Noted. It has been raised on yesterday's sessions, which I'm sure most of us were here for, that the Royal Successions Act does not allow restoration of the succession rights of those disinherited from the Crown and their respective children.' said Julien, before continuing to speak about said precedent. 'This was indeed the case for Jacques VI and Sylvain II's younger siblings, who either died early or had marriages against what was previously the Royal Marriages and Divine Assent Act of 1678, which precedes the very Successions Act itself.'

'That is indeed true, Julien, but the situation there, as you know well being the minister on this field of expertise, is different, for it may be that the Palais, of both names Joongyeong and Quebec City, may be too cruel and strict towards our own highnesses who we expect duties and values expected of god's sacred mission,' answered Arsene. While this answer, considering the two friends' camaraderie, drew the Foreign Secretary's nod, this drew murmurs from four to five ministers of far-left NPD ranks, whose stance towards monarchy had remained lukewarm at best. 'Perhaps Concord Heights is right in not denying Brianna, a woman of her own merits and good nature, succession rights. This was something that the late Henri VIII, whose soul we all bless, had to risk when marrying our Queen Mother Nathalie.'

'God Save the Queen!' was shouted by six, mostly-senior members of Her Majesty's Cabinet, as they wished for her health to improve. 'Long Live the Queen Mother Nathalie.'

'You may be right, and that is specifically why I must refrain from commenting on this, at least when we cross the waters between Anaia, AO and Rushmore. But wouldn't it make sense for you or a councilor, one preferably in the Committee or the Upper Chamber (judges of the Quebecois supreme court are appointed members to the House of Lords, though they rarely sit on sessions), to give them our recommendations on establishing a successions act on this situation establishing Cassandra or Brianna as first in line?' asked Julien, with a minor round of 'hear, hear's' being shared by half-dozen ministers of the cabinet.

'That is certainly possible for us to advise Concord Heights on,' said Arsene, before citing examples from the other side of the portal. 'It is indeed true that what caused the downfall of not only the Wang's of the Goryeo dynasty but also the Yi's of the Joseon dynasty were the murky nature of succession laws in there, though it was also to do with the practice of having concubines, something that's long abolished since year 1757 under Emperor Taejo (Alexandre I, the first Quebecois monarch in current form).

'That is true, Minister Kim, and indeed we have a situation here that could possibly divide the nation,' said Isabelle Yotún, young, Transport Secretary of Huayramarcan Quechua heritage. 'But that does not mean that we cannot have the best of both worlds. While a nation whose powers of governance are primarily placed on the hands of the royals themselves, the Dagans have also established themselves as a pinnacle of stability in Rushmore where Marianne and Southwest Eastnorth are demonstrable examples of chaos and vagabond identities, Pavolan nations ever so unpredictable, and Euran vampires set out to destabilise any country of their interest.'

Another round of hear-hear's occurred, after which the thirty-year old continued to speak. 'And the Dagans, no matter how challenged they will be in future-time, have always done things their way, and we have seen this before with their tradition of timeliness, as have seen by Cassie I when she, having achieved her full cycle of reign, abdicated in favour of her daughter, the great-grandmother of our very Prince Alexandre!'

Another round of hear-hear's followed, the third time this happening in last five minutes unfortunately making it sound silly and repetitive. Appropriate reflection of how silly the pomp and circumstance could get in this country. 'That is very much correct, but please stick to the point, Isabelle!' shouted Yoon Sang-Shik, a middle-aged minister, followed by a laughter.

'Not at the right time, Mssr. Yoon,' coughed Arsene to suggest his dissatisfaction. 'But I do see your line of thought in that the Privy Councilors or other ministers, or even myself, could suggest possible co-regency for Princess Brianne, a voice desiring change, and Princess Cassandra, who we all recognise as a voice of legitimacy. As a matter of compromise.'

'Very much so, Minister Kim. I understand that we, as Her Majesty's Cabinet, could only suggest or even advise, but not enforce these ideas. Sovereignty are there to be respected. But that's what I would suggest to the elderly Queen, if I were the Duke of Halifax (refers to Caspian, whose primary title as the Prince Consort is the Duke of Halifax).'

'Noted. Thank you, Isabelle, and we will keep quiet until the next month. But for now, we will move onto the next topic: the very Dagan man in this palace. Of course, it's been made clear to us that Prince Consort will also be joining the trip as asked by Her Majesty.' Unlike his predecessor Kim Seung-Yin, a relatively-incompetent man whose grace and ability to stay in line helped Christine II through the year leading up to her coronation and the Royal Wedding, Arsene Kim and the Quebecois high society had more mixed feelings about the Prince Consort who did not always fit the extravaganza of the stuck-up high society here (author's note: blame them, not him tbh). 'Of course, this comes against our past advice that requested only one of the monarch and the consort, whether Queen or Prince, to be abroad on a state visit, but we are not in a position to oppose Duke of Halifax from visiting Brattleboro, where he was once a Duke before marriage, and Concord Heights. It's all understandable because what father, especially one with redeemable qualities like His Royal Highness, the Duke of Halifax, would not want to see his son?'

by **Kavanis** » Thu May 19, 2022 4:59 am

Ranoria wrote:Cutoff for the Ranorian Half! Who's going to crumble under the lights as we go into the final stages?

This is incorrect. The correct answer was: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pNo1nS_JV5k

Q1
0 – 6 Réquan Stephens 27 yard pass from Joe Buchanan (pass failed)
Q2
0 – 13 Tyndall Peterson 1 yard rush (Dom Hughes kick)
0 – 16 Dom Hughes 22 yard field goal
Q3
0 – 19 Dom Hughes 30 yard field goal
Q4
0 – 25 Corey Cox 35 yard interception return (Dom Hughes kick failed)

by **Sarzonia** » Thu May 19, 2022 7:21 am

As far as whether or not quarterback Cameron Stallworth was going to play in Sarzonia's match against Venmere was concerned, Stars manager Gavin Davis had the last laugh.

He defied an edict by the Incorporated Gridball Federation to start Stallworth after the Board rescinded Davis's decision to expel Stallworth from the team. Mike Barnett got the start instead, but spent most of the time handing off to Ty'Relle Clinton, who rushed 38 times for 188 yards and two touchdowns in Sarzonia's 17-0 victory. The win officially clinched a spot in the knockout rounds for Sarzonia and spared the team the usual drama of the final matchday. Stallworth only played two snaps at the end of the match, taking a knee on both to officially bring the match to a close.

Davis said Stallworth could "potentially" get some time in the group stage finale against Kyhun, but signaled a desire to give third choice quarterback Wendy Bartlett some time under centre.

"We've got a luxury in that we've already punched our ticket into the knockouts," Davis said. "It'll give our depth players a chance to get some playing time." He said Clinton would get the day off after the workhorse performance against Venmere.

As for the drama about Stallworth's position on the team, Davis said he accepted the Board's decision.

"I made my point to the Board and to the player," he said. "We're moving on."

After the match, however, he was pacing in his office as defensive coordinator Tyler Paige was walking by. Paige knocked on the door.

"Yes?"

"Gav, something's bothering you, isn't it?"

"Uh, you could say that," Davis said. He looked toward the door, which Paige understood to mean to shut the door to the office. Paige did that. After he gave a glance to ensure the door was closed all the way, the defensive coordinator looked at Davis and said, "you're still pissed about the Board overriding you on Stallworth."

"Exactly, Ty," Davis said. "Even if I broke precedent by going straight to expelling him from the team, that's my call. It was conduct detrimental."

"Yeah, it was," Paige said. "And you sent in your report to your bosses and the Board like you're required to. You have every right to be angry about it." Davis's frown softened a little bit as did his facial features. He didn't explicitly say it, but Paige could tell Davis appreciated the support, the validation of hearing someone else say he had a right to his anger. "Have you given any thought to how you're going to respond to that decision?"

"I've been thinking about it, Ty," Davis said. "Part of me wants to walk away from the team right fucking now, but I'd lose face if I did that."

"Not necessarily," Paige said. "Though you kind of painted yourself into a corner a little bit by publicly announcing that you were moving on. If you hadn't done that, you could blow the lid on this decision in a press conference if you resigned straight away. But now, you'd have to fall back on that age-old bullshit of 'spending more time with my family'."

Davis thought for a moment. He had a son who was 8 and he'd missed a couple of his plays. His wife had to attend her father's funeral whilst Davis was game-planning for the Delaclava match in Newport. Spending more time with family was often code language for something far more sinister, although Davis did have some things to fall back on that would make the age-old excuse look legitimate. He'd somehow forgotten that his son was actually 11 and was beginning his first days on the school gridball team. His wife had attended her father's funeral and was also beginning to watch her mother begin to need aging care.

But while there would be good, valid reasons for saying Davis wanted to spend more time with his family, the reality was, he was still fuming about the IGF Board overriding his decision about Stallworth. He hadn't finalised anything, but he was pondering not signing a contract for the next World Bowl. He usually focused on the present in any World Bowl, but he was doubling down on that now. He felt that even if he did decide to stay, he'd still have to sort through his anger over being undermined by the Board's decision.

Paige seemed to pick up on this. No, he did pick up on it. He knew he'd be one of the guys to get the call if Davis stepped aside, but he also felt like he wanted his boss to know he supported him. And besides that, Paige wasn't sure if he felt ready to take the next step and become a manager yet. He felt as though he was still adjusting to life as a defensive coordinator after having been a position coach for so long. He publicly said as much even though several people who heard him thought that was ridiculous. After all, the Stars had conceded the fewest points of any of the 32 teams fighting through qualifying. Hell, even the notoriously defence-oriented Dragonflies of Ko-oren gave up four more points than Sarzonia has to this point. Not only that, but the Stars have pitched two shutouts during qualifying and allowed just three points on two other occasions, including limiting the Phoenixes to three points at Dave Wilson Stadium.

He's just settling in? some media folks wondered out loud. How scary will this team be when he figures it all out?

In any event, though, Davis still had work to do. He didn't want his team to face the embarrassment of becoming the only team to lose to unranked Kyhun after they'd already conceded the most points that offence would compile in a single match throughout qualifying. And there was the matter of securing the best possible seed in the knockout rounds.

Yes, there was still work to do. But now, Davis felt the clock ticking. He was being given a two-minute warning of sorts and the question was how far he'd be able to drive himself to either extend his tenure or bring it to an unsatisfying close.

by **New Gesem** » Thu May 19, 2022 7:53 am

Times A-Changin', pt 6

On a cold autumn night in a single-wide trailer in Island, a one-stoplight town a stone’s throw from Busiris, the Reverend Lee Gibbs had a dream. He dreamed of a football team in red and blue jerseys with gold helmets, traveling the multiverse to represent the best ideals of New Gesem at the highest levels of international sport. When he awoke, he ran to the sanctuary of Island Full Gospel Tabernacle, the Pentecostal church where he was head minister, and prayed at the altar for guidance on how to make his vision come true.

What was revealed to the Reverend Gibbs that morning is between him and God, but we do know what he did: he sought the backing of the Knights of Constantine to create a football team that would represent New Gesem at the World Bowl. The obstacles in his way spoke for themselves. Wary of competition, the GFL had done everything in its power to prevent its athletes from seeking higher paychecks abroad. Since New Gesem requires expatriate insurance as a condition of granting exit visas, the GFL had only to apply pressure to the financial institutions which offer this insurance to block Gesemite football players from leaving.

The Rev. Gibbs’s approach was novel in that his players would not be under GFL contracts and thus not beholden to the restrictions contained in that league’s collective bargaining agreement. The team exceeded expectations in the forty-second World Bowl, and the resulting surprise sent shockwaves through the world of Gesemite professional sports. Though the GBA had long relied on Quebecois players, mostly young college graduates without professional prospects back home, the league had always opposed the emigration of Gesemite players and joined with the GFL to block it.

The disruptive effects of the Pilgrims’ participation in WBXLII were understated. The team exceeded expectations, though it was by no means dominant, and while its participation drove conversations up and down the Gesem River, there was no sudden outflux of Gesemite players seeking glory abroad. Home games, mostly at Redbird Stadium in Alexandroupolis, were well-attended despite the general lack of nationalistic feeling among most Gesemites, who are more apt to be loyal to their city, religion, or fraternity than to New Gesem as a whole. Broadcasts of both home and away games were also popular, rating among the most-watched programs in their timeslots.

When the University of Alexandroupolis announced in the summer of 2012 that its football team would be participating in Nationstates College Football beginning with the spring of 2013, they were met with confusion. For one thing, the team was days away from beginning its summer training camp leading into the 2012 fall GCAA season. While Huayramarcan and Quebecois immigrants had brought some basic understanding of the world of international sports into New Gesem, the average Gesemite was largely ignorant to the inner workings of the NSCF, and UA’s sudden decision to join brought up numerous questions.

Over the past two season, UA has gradually shifted to using primarily walk-on, non-scholarship players or underclassmen for its fall season against other GCAA schools while reserving its starters for the spring NSCF season. UC, by contrast, has used its fall season to test and gel its team ahead of the gauntlet of spring football, though this arrangement may be more a reaction to the post-death penalty nature of the team. While the NSCF has never allowed more than two universities from one nation to compete, if that should ever change, there would be several candidates from among the remaining GCAA schools, most notably the venerable University of Thebes.

by **Banija** » Thu May 19, 2022 12:02 pm

Logistics Hub- with 8 team Expansion, New Divisions, scheduling format, and draft format announced

BUSUKUMA, NATIONAL CAPITOL REGION- The Gridiron Football League of Banija is now, of course, a 24 team competition. That means a lot of things, when you expand the league by 50% at once. A lot of questions have to be answered- how will the scheduling work? How will the format work? What kind of playoff format will there be? And after quite a bit of handwringing, a lot of negotiating, and eight different sets of expansion fees being still collected and distributed among the original 16 league owners, we've finally figured that out.

Scheduling and Playoff Format

What matters the most, eh? Of course, right now, in this sport, we have 2, eight team conferences, with no divisions, and play 16 regular season games a season. But now, the GFLB will try an innovative format this time around- six 4 team divisions, with no conferences. You'll play each team in your division twice(6 games), and a single round robin 2 other divisions(8 games), and then 1 game each against the same place team in a division that you haven't already played against(3 games), for a total of 17 games.

An odd number of games? Yes. As always for this league, the byes will be at the same time for everyone. This time, there will be a bye week after Week 9(traditionally rivalry weekend on the domestic college scene), and, for the first time, a second bye. There will be another Bye after week 15(aka national championship weekend for domestic college gridiron). So the regular season will take 19 weeks to complete 17 games. Number of preseason games have been reduced to one.

Teams, of course, schedule their own pre-season games in this league. For the first time, the GFLB has de-regulated pre-season games. Ever popular joint practices are expected to become more of the norm, and for the first time, teams will be allowed and encouraged to play pre-season games against teams from other leagues. It is unknown if that will actually happen, but 'more than a few' GFLB teams are projected to contact counterparts from leagues like the QFL, RFL, and GFL, in a non-exhaustive list, for an effort to get some international pre-season games in.

What about the playoff format? That is easy. The six division winners, and the next six best teams in the league, will all qualify for the playoffs. Top 4 division winners will be seeded 1-4 and get a first round bye. The next 8 playoff qualifiers will be seeded by record. Which, yes, means that the bottom 2 division winners can be seeded behind the wild cards. They are seeded 5-12. A fixed single elimination bracket commences, and the stronger seed is always playing at home.

The GFLB National Championship Game name shall be changed to the "Simba Bowl", and the championship game shall always be held at the Stadium of the Restoration(cap. 91,835) in Busukuma, National Capitol Region. Below, we shall have our divisions.

North Division
Mynda Electra. Mynda, Aksum. (Bought in the offseason by Electra Corporation of Damukuni, who owns the soccer team)
Askatasuna Wildcats. Askatasuna, Aksum.
Aissa Crocodiles. Aissa, Hangaza.
Jinja City Springboks. Jinja City, Hangaza.

Moravica Division
Kosactus Red Vultures. Kosactus, Moravica. (Expansion Team)
Herzegovina City Cobras. Herzegovina City, Moravica
Rukunbi Wizards. Istria, Moravica.
Istria Black Mambas. Istria, Moravica

West Division
Dukuma Dragons. Dukuma, North Island, Busoga Islands
Mar Sara Night Elves. Mar Sara, Valanora. (Expansion Team)
Busembe Timberwolves. Busembe, Kitara
Sisonke Leopards. Sisonke, Kitara.

South Division
Mukeruzi Hyenas. Mukeruzi, Ankole. (Expansion Team)
Hoima Zebra. Hoima, Ankole Region.
Busukuma Athletic Club. Busukuma, National Capitol Region.
Busukuma Suns. Busukuma, National Capitol Region, Banija.

Central Division
Isipongo Wild Boars. Isipongo, Buganda. (Expansion Team)
Lwanga Rhinos. Lwanga, Buganda.
Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club. Umbazi, Buganda
Igulu Bush Elephants. Igulu, Hangaza. (Expansion Team)

East Division
Port Stovine Sea Turtles. Port Stovine. (Expansion Team)
Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club. Dodomo, Bunyoro.
Bwubanza Ostriches. Bwubanza, Bunyoro. (Expansion Team)
St. Jakob Honey Badgers. St. Jakob, Teusland. (Expansion Team)

Of course, with this being Season 1 of the new format, there is no mechanism for scheduling the three games against divisions you don't already play. Therefore, those will be assigned by the league. For Season 1, the East, Central, and Moravica divisions will be paired together for scheduling, as well as the South, West, and North Divisions being paired together.

While the GFLB wanted geographic continuity as much as possible, it did ultimately rank rivalry preservation over perfect geographic alignment. This means that-

- The Aissa Crocodiles, who geographically would be in the East Division, were placed in a division alongside historic in-state rivals, the Jinja City Springboks
- The Kosactus Red Vultures, who nominally would go into the North Division, were placed into an all-Moravica division with the other Moravica teams
- While there was a strong argument to split the Cobras and Black Mambas, ultimately, the decision was made to develop Moravica rivalries by allowing them to all be in the same division.
- While it would make far more sense for St. Jakob to join the South Division, in order to preserve and develop historical rivalries between Ankole and Busukuma squads, St. Jakob was moved to the East Division.

Of course, that is not always possible

- The expansion Igulu Bush Elephants, despite being in a state with two other teams, will join the three Buganda teams in the Central Division, in order to ensure the historic Hangaza rivalries, as well as the historic Aksum rivalries, can continue on.

GFLB Draft Format

Based off of a combination of market size, and last season performance, the GFLB has figured out how the non-playoff teams will draft. The last 6 picks in each round are set in stone, but the first 18 picks in each round will snake. The GFLB Draft, naturally, will take place at the Busukuma Convention Center, in the Banijan capitol.

1st Round Draft Order

Dukuma Dragons.
Jinja City Springboks
Mar Sara Night Elves(Expansion Team)
Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club.
Mukeruzi Hyenas (Expansion Team)
Igulu Bush Elephants. (Expansion Team)
Askatasuna Wildcats.
Lwanga Rhinos.
Kosactus Red Vultures(Expansion Team)
Hoima Zebra.
Isipongo Wild Boars(Expansion Team)
Mynda Gorillas.
Bwubanza Ostriches(Expansion Team)
St. Jakob Honey Badgers(Expansion Team)
Sisonke Leopards.
Busukuma Suns.
Rukunbi Wizards.
Port Stovine Sea Turtles. (Expansion Team)
Busembe Timberwolves
Aissa Crocodiles.
Herzegovina City Cobras
Busukuma Athletic Club
Bunyoro RSC
Istria Black Mambas

GFLB Starting QB Tracker

Who is starting at the most important position in sports on each GFLB team? Let's let everyone know...

Dukuma Dragons.
VACANT

Jinja City Springboks
VACANT

Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club.
Ebenezer Odondi. Banija. 25 years old. Lake Wakiso State(Banija, domestic) grad.

Askatasuna Wildcats.
VACANT

Lwanga Rhinos.
Ebou Hairte. Banija. 24 years old. Loyola-Istria(Banija, NSCF) grad.

Hoima Zebra.
Jethro Adida. Banija. 27 years old. University of Moravica(Banija, domestic) grad.

Mynda Gorillas.
Ezra Odika. Banija. 29 years old. Heshima & Usian University(Banija, domestic) grad.

Sisonke Leopards.
Vallienté Wagner-Young. Ranoria. 23 years old. Northern Moravica(Banija, NSCF) grad.

Busukuma Suns.
Amazu Chibuzo. Banija. 31 years old. Loyola-Istria(Banija, NSCF) grad.

Rukunbi Wizards.
VACANT

Busembe Timberwolves
Arioch Ayange. Banija. 30 years old. Kizza I College(Banija, domestic) grad.

Aissa Crocodiles.
Ifeatu Chineze. Banija. 32 years old. Richardson University(Ranoria, NSCF) grad.

Herzegovina City Cobras
Omar Jassey. 37 years old. Loyola-Istria(Banija, NSCF) grad.

Busukuma Athletic Club
Ezekiel Bantoba. 31 years old. Richardson University(Ranoria, NSCF) grad.

Bunyoro RSC
Kajwang Awiti. Banija. 29 years old. Hangaza Tech(Banija, domestic) grad.

Istria Black Mambas
VACANT.

Non-Exhaustive, Unranked list of Top NSCF Prospects
KCU WR Kalu Alazar(BNJ)
Loyola-Istria WR Rachel Emerson(CDG)
NMU DT Urk McCauley(QUE)
Loyola-Istria QB Craig Juniper(CBP)
NMU TE Zachary Lewis(KHD).
NMU OLB Kendrick Diaz(DEL)
NMU EDGE Ailo Børve(Valanora)
NMU FS Drew Lia(Chrom)
Loyola-Istria CB Emmitt Krell(Chrom)
Loyola-Istria MLB Marcus Sandoval(KHD)
NMU LG Alanso Kandeh(BNJ)
NMU RG Alifa Marenah(BNJ)
NMU RT Jonkong Touray(BNJ)
NMU MLB Bango Uster(BNJ)
NMU CB Uzoma Obasi(BNJ)
Loyola-Istria LT Ogwang Owiti(BNJ)
Felswyr State FS Oziama Mazzi (BNJ)
Staramara Tech HB Lana Rhodes (CMT)
Staramara Tech DE Mykhajlo Vyacheslavovych Kozlov (CMT)
Staramara Tech FS Siu Cantu (CMT)

Banijan Domestic First Round QB Prospects- Unranked
Zaminkosi Holomisa. Kizza I College. Strength: Big Arm. Weakness: Pocket Presence
Lindisizwe Mthobeni. Bunyoro State. Strength: Big Arm. Weakness: Overaggressive
Aphiwe Dandala. University of Moravica. Strength: Pinpoint accuracy. Weakness: Doesn't like to throw deep
Wandile Magona. North Kitara. Strength: Ability as a runner; mobility in the pocket. Weakness: Short-throw accuracy.
Dumile Balfour. Moravica A&M. Strength: Pinpoint accuracy, pocket presence. Weakness: Widely considered to be lazy.

World Bowl News
- Banija picked up their 7th straight World Bowl win, with a 36-7 win over Abanhfleft at the Jungledrom. It is something no Banijan team has done before- both Northern Moravica(0-2) and Loyola-Istria(0-2) are winless at the Jungledrom in NSCF competition, the home of the Ratzupalfu University of Nature.
- With first place in Group E long clinched, Thomas Hall said that he'll rest a couple of starters ahead of their final group contest, against Kavanis- specifically MLB Isaiah Bryce, and QB Ifeatu Chineze. The former is expected, considering his age, trying to keep him fresh for the playoffs. Ifeatu Chineze is more of a surprise. But of course, considering how red-hot this offense has been, he wants to ensure that the engine that makes it all go, their Richardson alumnus at QB, is healthy. If that means sitting him a game, it means sitting him in the last group stage game. Thomas Hall said that the team is still 'plenty capable of winning games with Amazu Chibuzo' at QB, and they will have their first and only opportunity to do so in Week 9, back at EVU Field in the Elephant Valley.
- Who are Banija's potential first round playoff opponents? If Banija wins in Week 9 against Kavanis, with Chibuzo at QB, then they will likely garner the top seed for the South Newlandia side of the bracket. The Serpent Eagles are currently projected to face whoever gets second place in Group G, so either Mon Sold or Kohnhead, who are both 4-4. Those two will play each other in a winner-takes-all match in South Newlandia, with the winner to the playoffs and the loser going home.
- What if Banija fall to Kavanis? While Kavanis has already clinched a knockout stage berth, they could be going for the jugular in the third matchup between the two teams. In that case, that opens up our possibilities for second round opponents. St. Kanye, South Newlandia, and Sarzonia all become extremely tough, potential first round opponents, that the Serpent Eagles would surely not want to face. But Thomas Hall said that he's not worried about that- all their focus is on Kavanis. "We've got a few extremely strong QBs on this roster, and that includes Chibuzo." He told reporters. "We're gonna take to the skies in this one, and we're gonna have Chineze and co. completely healthy and ready for the first round of the playoffs, hopefully as the #1 overall seed."

by **Ranoria** » Thu May 19, 2022 12:59 pm

World Bowl 44 Week 8: Ranoria vs Anthor
Dietrich Stadium
Richardson, Ranoria

"Motherf-" the crowd roared in clear disapproval after John Garrett threw his third interception of the day. This time it was George Lawrence jumping out of the gym and tipping the ball back to himself on an incredibly athletic play. Garrett sprinted down the field to meet him, but the play was dead before he made it halfway down the field. Another expletive flew from his lips and he ripped off his helmet in a rare show of emotion on the field in Dietrich Stadium. In front of a crowd that had showed up in force to see their heroes on the biggest stage.

John Garrett, Johnny Farmer, Gideon Kearse, Ross Monarch, Spencer Crutchfield, Gudbrand Taurus, Judas Wolfson - all legends who'd gotten their start here at Dietrich Stadium in Richardson playing for the nation's flagship college football program. Throw in other contributors like Calvin Hale, Jacob Silva, and Jabyess Hawkins, and you had a veritable homecoming game.

Only...that wasn't what was happening. For an audience swollen to standing room only - 95,450 faithful in a stadium with 94,750 seats, this was nothing short of heartbreaking. And for Garrett in particular, this wasn't just the worst of many shoddy performances in this World Bowl. It was the worst of any World Bowl he'd been a part of. Hell, it was maybe the worst showing of his professional career.

But somehow, some way, the Krauts were still in this thing, and he took some solace in that. Through forcing three turnovers of their own, this defense had given them a shot. Even without being able to capitalize on prime field position, they'd nailed three field goals from Barry Chlorid, and this was still a one score game at 16-9.

Raul Nieler simply offered a nod as Garrett stalked off the field, knuckles white with his grip on the facemask of his helmet and eyes wide. Indignant. Johnny Farmer sat next to him, and no one else dared encroach on the area around the two seething superstars save a waterboy who scurried away the instant they'd each taken a bottle. They didn't say a word to one another.

"Garrett." It was Richard Steinheil's voice that broke the silence. John looked up - angry as he was - he'd give the man the time of day. Normally a defensive coordinator would stick to his side of the ball, but with his playcall in, he addressed the veteran stars. Steinheil's jaw moved oh-so-gradually with the gum in his mouth, t shirt perhaps a bit disconcerting in the cold weather. "You're playing like shit."

No presentation, no beating around the bush. Another Richardson legend, Steinheil had never been one to be anything but direct, and he was far too old to give a damn anyway now. John couldn't help but snicker at his coach from back in his collegiate days. "Yeah, I noticed."

"No you haven't." John's mouth opened just slightly, and Johnny Farmer tilted his head. "I don't give a damn about this shitshow, ah, one second." He turned, fumbled with the play sheet for a second, then shrugged and signaled for the base defense before turning his weathered gaze on his former star pupils. "The whole tournament. You've been forcing balls, playing almost desperate. For shit's sake, you've got more interceptions now in this run than the last two combined. What are you trying to prove?"

Now John's mouth was wide open. He stammered a bit as he lost his composure, "I-I"

"Zip it, Garrett." Steinheil scowled, "You're letting your emotions get the best of you. You remember your first season starting? All the way back in NSCF 16. It was awkward, every starter at every position returned besides quarterback. You made mistakes early, you were hesitant to lead."

Garrett's gaze finally flicked to the side for a moment, but he nodded. "Yeah, yeah I guess that's true." And he turned back, "What of it?"

"But once you got that job, NSCF 17 in particular, you put on a show. Not on the statsheet, either. No, you wanted to prove you earned that job. And it got you injured time and time again. Hanging in the pocket too long, waiting for the deep bomb."

Johnny Farmer tilted his head in agreement, "He's got a point, Farmboy."

"That's what you look like to me," continued Steinheil as the stadium roared in response to an Abram Fairbanks sack. Well, we're not sure if it was a boo or a cheer or some mixture, but Fairbanks welcomed it all the same, gesturing for them to up the decibels after the vicious hit. "Just a little more intact, thank god. The next year, you were surgical. I coached Derek McNair, and they can call him the best college football player of all time 'til they're blue in the face, that was the best passing performance I've ever seen over the course of a season."

Now that one hit home. Even with a couple national titles under your belt, it's hard to step out of the shadow of a guy like Derek McNair. Hard to overcome a dude so transcendent that most Ranorian pundits claim Richardson would've won a championship in their debut season had McNair not opted out of the NSCF season.

Johnny Farmer couldn't keep a grin off his face as he saw what was happening - well, that and Abram Fairbanks pulling his helmet off as the punt teams came onto the field with a grin, cupping an ear in response to the "LOYOLA SUCKS. LOYOLA SUCKS." Chants now echoing through the stadium. He stumbled as Gideon Kearse punched him in the arm on the way to the sideline, and Farmer turned his attention back to the two men at hand.

"Okay," John leapt to his feet, mouthpiece sticking out of a corner of his mouth, "You're right."

"I know." Steinheil stonewalled. "When am I not?"

"I'm the best god damn quarterback in the world."

"You're gonna go win the god damn World Bowl. Again."

John Garrett whipped around and grabbed his best friend by the front of his chestplate. Farmer yelped as he was yanked to his feet - he always happened to forget that the passer wasn't far off from his size, and Garrett locked eyes with him.

"We're gonna go win the god damn World Bowl. Again."

"Well gentlemen," Richard Steinheil gestured to the field, "Your loving audience awaits."

"Johnny!" the tight end - lined up in the backfield on this play- spun oh a heel, "I've got an idea."

"That's never a good sign," he shot back, "What's up?"

"Line up where I would, I'll fake having the ball and roll out like it's a bootleg."

Johnny Farmer knew exactly what was coming, and he shook his head. "Dude, there's no way that's gonna work at this le-"

"Five seconds on the game clock buddy!" Farmboy lined up just a foot to the right of the center, braced as if he were ready to take the snap, "Seeeet hut!"

Of course Farmer caught the ball one handed and tucked it behind a hip while he moved to a pass protection stance, and Garrett feigned a rollout. Fortunately for Garrett, the play had been one that saw all his receivers crossing the field, and coverage came with them while the front 7 locked in on the quarterback. James Chancellor was the first to get a hit on him, but Farmboy spun off with a grin and flashed his empty hands. It was at this point that the front 7 froze, unsure of what was going on, and Garrett took off.

He wasn't as fast as guys like Dustin Beck or Taurus Wright - certainly not Isaka Jawara - but the young man could run, and by the time anyone realized what was going on, he and Johnny Farmer may as well have been playing catch in the back yard. The crowd in Dietrich Stadium roared as the impressive-for-a-tight-end pass hit home and Garrett brought it in without issue. The last time they'd pulled this sort of trick play, it'd been in NSCF 17 at Lathalein Celestial Stadium in Mar Sara, but no Governor fan worth their salt didn't immediately recognize it.

The cameras panned to Garrett, who was leaping into his tight end's arms after the play. His lips were moving, but even mic'd up no one could hear what he was saying over the throng of a passionate college football fanbase that was being blessed with such an opportunity to see their childhood heroes lighting it up.

Barry Chlorid's leg was true, and the Governors weren't dead yet. But with under two minutes on the clock(who runs an adlibbed trick play with so little time on the clock, by the way), their defense would have to stand strong.

Abram Fairbanks had his moment earlier - this time it would be Gideon Kearse. There had been and are still doubts about the decision to start the two over the known values in Zach Skinner and Angelo Gordon, but today it seemed to be working. After two run stuffs by none other than 37 year old Ross Monarch, Kearse tossed aside Matthew Bell in a perfect push-pull and then took off. Dirk Wallace - if this campaign was anything to judge off - is a legend in the making, but the buzz around Kearse is just the same, and on this snap, he showed why. All 275 pounds of generational talent drove Wallace into the dirt of Dietrich Stadium in violent fashion. It wasn't the first sack today and it wouldn't be the last in what had become a game dominated by defensive bullies on both sides, but this one gave Ranoria a chance.

Jabyess Hawkins fielded the punt, not much more than a scamper along the sideline for 11 yards to make the offense's job a bit easier now with under a minute to play and no timeouts. The game was tied - this was a drive to go win the game.

Despite the Voodoo secondary defending the sideline, John Garrett was able to pick up a few passes outside the numbers to get out of bounds quickly by taking advantage of the massive size of Khalil Hauptmann on fade routes. But those could only get them so close. On a second and three, the Krauts took their shot. With the entire defense spreading out, Johnny Farmer was all alone on a seam and Garrett hit him in stride. The all-world tight end slid down to give himself up before being tackled - to avoid the officials taking longer to spot the ball - and the offense rushed to the scene of the crime to spike it.

Twelve seconds. From the 31, it'd be a 48 yard field goal. Raul Nieler was already sending the kick team out, no reason to chance a potential winning play, but Farmboy waved them off. Sure, Barry Chlorid held the RFL record of 58 yards, but like any Ranorian, the guy could barely string together a perfect game with extra points, much less long shot field goals.

Nieler and Garrett locked eyes, and they waited for just a moment before the veteran coach gave him the nod. The kick team was already running off, they knew better than to defy the biggest name in Ranorian sports, and John gathered the men around.

"We've got one shot to win this game. I'm going right to the end zone, we can't risk the clock running out if you get tackled before there. Worst case scenario is overtime. Just try and make a play guys."

There was a nod amongst the men in the huddle and he gave his playcall - one of his personal favorites. John had time to burn before he had to snap the ball though. He cracked his fingers, shook out his wrists, and took a deep breath.

"Hut!"

Snap, five step drop. He looked to Jeremiah Fletcher first - and he never even turned his head before the ball was thrown. Most guys needed all vectors to be pointed towards the target - not Farmboy. And c'mon, anyone who thought this ball was going anywhere else should be stripped of their jersey. Gwenderyn and Mio will have their time, but for now, there's not a more iconic quarterback-receiver duo in the sport.

His eyes flicked over to a flash of yellow in the corner of his vision though, and his jaw dropped. Of all times? Props to Malcolm Jenkins, he'd gotten the bend he needed and beat Vince Vermillion underneath, and the veteran tackle had been right to hook him across the throat with his arm - that's legal. But tossing him with that arm, not so much.

Johnny Farmer ripped the ball out of the air commandingly, flashing his hands too late for any defender to make a play on them and tucking the ball too fast for them to punch it out, as if they could've anyway. Toes down, knees down, shoulders down in bounds. He rolled to his feet, towering over the hapless defenders around them. For a veteran his age, it may have been the last iconic play of his World Bowl career, and he reveled in it, spiking the ball so hard it nearly flew into the upper deck.

But only a half-hearted applause. John Garrett stared his favorite target down from from where he'd thrown the ball, dejected. Farmer slowly realized what was happening, and turned back to meet that gaze.

"Holding. Offense, number 70. Five yard penalty. Second and eight."

Vince Vermillion - the man in question - looked up at the sky, seething. John Garrett simply patted him on the shoulder and ran off to the sideline - they'd have to trust in Barry Chlorid's leg from 53 yards out. If he hadn't held, there was a good chance it'd have been a sack regardless. But the press would not show such mercy to Vermillion.

The kick went up, and maybe it would've been good from just a couple yards closer, but today, Barry Chlorid was wide. It almost looked as if the ball would nail the upright before the winter winds in Dietrich Stadium arced it hard to the right, and they'd be going to overtime.

"Damn kickers," Farmer cursed, and John Garrett shook his head as well.

"Worthless lot. Imagine seeing the field for less than a full minute on a good day and still screwing it up," Farmboy uttered.

"He was a Buffalo," Farmer added with a tilt of his head, "Can never trust those guys."

"Watch it, hicktown!"

Both of them turned to see a seething Angelo Gordon on the bench. Gordon had only been a year ahead of Chlorid at Cold Hill University, but rather than continue defending his alma mater, he scowled at Chlorid once he got within earshot. "You're as worthless as ever, kicker."

The Krauts got the ball second in overtime with a chance to pay the defense back for such a strong performance in regulation. After holding the Voodoo to just 16 through four quarters, the exhausted unit had surrendered a touchdown in overtime.

Well, the Krauts offense - vaunted as it may have been coming in - just wasn't up to snuff.

It was a broken play from the start on first down, and Garrett never had a chance as the blitz came straight through on a jailbreak. He'd known how to beat this even early in his college career - throw into it, but as soon as the ball left his hands, James Chancellor got his revenge for the earlier trick play, batting it up into the air. Garrett managed to catch it himself rather than let someone else pick him off, but that didn't save him from three tacklers sending him crashing to the dirt for a ten yard loss on first down.

As explosive an offense as this is, they've struggled since week 2 of this tournament, and once again they came up short here. Garrett lofted a fourth down pass to Isaak Rodriguez, only for the ball to be punched out of the young speedster's hands before he could complete the catch, sending him to the ground...and the Krauts to second in the group.

Garrett ripped off his chin strap, lips tight and fingers numb in the chill, staring at the defender who'd broken up the pass.

He'd meant what he told his old coach. He would win the World Bowl again. But there was no room left for error. Whatever was wrong with this offense, they had to figure it out, and figure it out fast.

"I've said it before Johnny," he pulled his helmet off, staring at the scoreboard in disbelief, "But enough is enough. We've gotta turn this thing around, we can't lose this thing at home."

by **South Newlandia** » Thu May 19, 2022 1:05 pm

Day nine cutoff for Groups A-D! It's show-time

Teams in blue advance to the Round of 16.

Group A

Lisander 0–3 Anthor
Ranoria 26–9 South Americanastan

P Group A              Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Anthor                 9   6  3  182 188  −6    0.667
2 Ranoria                9   6  3  231 176 +55    0.667
3 Lisander               9   3  6  152 187 −35    0.333
4 South Americanastan    9   3  6  182 196 −14    0.333

Anthor ahead of Ranoria on H2H record (2-1 (22-45, 30-27, 23-16 (OT))). Lisander ahead of South Americanastan on H2H record (2-1 (13-16, 22-17, 34-31)).

Group B

HUElavia 6–27 TJUN-ia
Theofficialjapan 10–34 Rocky Canada

P Group B              Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 TJUN-ia                9   8  1  216 134 +82    0.889
2 HUElavia               9   6  3  226 174 +52    0.667
3 Rocky Canada           9   4  5  201 184 +17    0.444
4 Theofficialjapan       9   0  9   98 249 −151   0.000

Group C

Gyatso-kai 19–23 Kriegiersien
StrayaRoos 10–58 Drawkland

P Group C              Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Drawkland              9   6  3  296 148 +148    0.667
2 Kriegiersien           9   5  4  196 209 −13    0.556
3 Gyatso-kai             9   5  4  217 236 −19    0.556
4 StrayaRoos             9   2  7  181 297 −116    0.222

Kriegiersien ahead of Gyatso-kai on H2H record (2-1 (17-23, 38-0, 23-19)).

Group D

New Gesem 27–28 Ko-oren
Bendicon 23–24 Greater Cebu

P Group D              Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
1 Ko-oren                9   8  1  203  94 +109   0.889
2 New Gesem              9   6  3  259 157 +102   0.667
3 Greater Cebu           9   2  7  121 250 −129   0.222
4 Bendicon               9   2  7  139 221 −82    0.222

Greater Cebu ahead of Bendicon on H2H record (2-1 (24-32, 10-3, 24-23)).

Seeding:

P Seeding               Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD    Win % 
D1 Ko-oren                9   8  1  203  94 +109   0.889
B1 TJUN-ia                9   8  1  216 134 +82    0.889
C1 Drawkland              9   6  3  296 148 +148   0.667
A1 Anthor                 9   6  3  182 188  −6    0.667
D2 New Gesem              9   6  3  259 157 +102   0.667
A2 Ranoria                9   6  3  231 176 +55    0.667
C2 Kriegiersien           9   5  4  196 209 −13    0.556
B2 HUElavia               9   6  3  226 174 +52    0.667

(Kriegiersien and HUElavia swapped to avoid group rematch between TJUN-ia and HUElavia)

Round of 16 Matchups (scorinated by SNL)

#1 Ko-oren vs. #8 HUElavia
@Adelphia Coliseum, Nashville, Ranoria (67,700)

#4 Anthor vs. #5 New Gesem
@Dietrich Stadium, Richardson, Ranoria (94,750)

#2 TJUN-ia vs. #7 Kriegiersien
@Reinhild Aerodynamics Arena, North Ashialand, Ranoria (70,400)

#3 Drawkland vs. #6 Ranoria
@CannabisCorp Field of Green, New Quebec, Ranoria (68,420)

by **Saint Kanye** » Thu May 19, 2022 5:33 pm

Matchday 8 was somehow a crucial one for the St. Kanye Surge, as whatever happens during that day could make or break their qualification into the World Bowl 44 playoffs. Heading into the game against the Quebec and Shingoryeo Grim Reapers, the Surge were 5-2, same as the South Newlandia Elephants, which the boys in purple and lime will still have to play a week later. But the Reapers are 4-3, and a win by them could see a three-way tie in the standings at the end of the group stages. Yup, this was a must watch game indeed. EVU Field in Elephant Valley, South Newlandia, only seats 7,000 people, but what showed up must have been ten times that, given the loyal fanbases of both the Yeezies and Quebecois. In the end, there was no longer a need to deal with a three-way tie, as the Surge flattened the Reapers 42-14, giving the former a place in the postseason and sending the latter packing. "We got what we needed today, but our fight is far from over," said Surge quarterback R.J. Linetti, who threw for two touchdowns and ran for another two. "There's still the Elephants next week, and after that, whoever we face in the playoffs. Lots of tough teams in our half of the tournament - Banija, Chromatika, hell, even Sarzonia, who look far removed from the squad that had coaching woes last Bowl."

1Q STK Linetti 39 run (Rasputin kick) STK 7-0
Linetti faked a handoff, took off, shrugged off Urk McCauley, stiff armed Cassidy Lemaire, then got the crowd pumped up with his first rushing TD of the match.

1Q STK Fredericks 81 pass from Linetti (Rasputin kick) STK 14-0
Several plays later, he faked another handoff, but this time it ended in a pass to the newcomer Deshawn Fredericks for a whopping eighty-one yards.

2Q QUE Bentick 23 pass from Lautner (Kweon DS kick) STK 14-7
Both of the Reapers' touchdowns today were scored by their strongest offensive position: tight end. The first one, which came early in the second quarter, was to Raphael Bentick for twenty-three yards.

2Q STK Moore 16 pass from Linetti (Rasputin kick) STK 21-7
The Surge retaliated, with Linetti leading a drive starting from their own 6-yard line, alternating the ground and aerial attacks and ending it with a Patrick Moore reception in the end zone for six points (seven with James Rasputin's PAT).

3Q STK Sherman 26 run (Rasputin kick) STK 28-7
Noah Sherman ran up the middle, but the lanes were clogged by white shirts waiting to tackle him. Instead of changing his path, he instead decided to bulldoze through the Reaper defense, which somehow worked and extended St. Kanye's lead to three touchdowns.

3Q STK Wade 74 return of blocked field goal (Rasputin kick) STK 35-7
After seeing their drive stall, the Quebecois decided to attempt a field goal. Unfortunately, Jon Patel had a hand up to disrupt Kweon Dong-Seon's kick, and the ball sailed into the hands of Phil Wade, who ran it back for the score.

4Q STK Linetti 45 run (Rasputin kick) STK 42-7
Another run by Linetti in the fourth gave the Surge six times as many points as the Reapers.

4Q QUE Dion-Maranda 10 pass from Lautner (Kweon DS kick) STK 42-14
Ian Lautner dodged a potential Simon Carver sack and connected with his other tight end, Charles Dion-Maranda, but it was far too late for the Reapers to mount a comeback.

Players from both teams shook hands after the final whistle, while Yeezie head coach Jeff Delphine spoke to his Quebecois counterpar: "That was quite the series. We won, then you did, then us again. I hope this isn't the last we see of you and your squad, and we'll be following your progress with great interest." Meanwhile, in the other Group H game, the Elephants won against the State of Imperial Russia, 26-13, keeping them winless in eight outings. Just as St. Kanye and South Newlandia will be battling for the top spot in the group in a week's time, Quebec and Shingoryeo will hope to finish strong against the SIR.

The playoff picture is starting to take shape, as evidenced by the goings on in the other groups.

- In Group A, the Anthor Voodoo (5-3) handed the Ranoria Krauts (also 5-3) their second straight defeat, outlasting them 23-16 after extra time. Both are on to the Round of Sixteen, though.
- In Group B, the TJUN-ia Jaguars (7-1) kept Theofficaljapan (0-8) winless, beating them 13-3.
- In Group C, the StrayaRoos Taipans (2-6) stunned Kriegiersien (4-4) by a score of 30-3, making the latter's final assignment against Gyatso-kai a do or die one.
- In Group D, the New Gesem Pilgrims (6-2) continue to have their best season yet, rolling over Greater Cebu (1-7) by a score of 32-9.
- In Group E, the Kavanis Kumquats (4-4) strengthen their bid to make the playoffs in their maiden season, prevailing 25-nil over Bongo Johnson (3-5)
- In Group F, the playoff-bound Sarzonia Stars (6-2) also shut out their opponents, winning 17-nil over Venmere (3-5).
- In Group G, the Kohnhead Brains (4-4) rose back up to the five hundred mark, edging the United Adaikes Scorpions (1-7) in a tight battle, 33-28.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| MD | Opponent                     | Rank | Uniform       | Score   | Record | Place |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
| 1  | State of Imperial Russia     | UR   | Purple/Purple | W 25- 0 |  1-0   |  1st  |
| 2  | Quebec and Shingoryeo        | 27   | Purple/Black  | W 53-17 |  2-0   |  1st  |
| 3  | @South Newlandia             | 12   | White/Purple  | L  9-35 |  2-1   |  1st  |
|    | BREAK                        |      |               |         |        |       |
| 4  | @State of Imperial Russia    | UR   | White/White   | W 26-10 |  3-1   |  1st  |
| 5  | @Quebec and Shingoryeo       | 27   | White/Purple  | L  6-20 |  3-2   |  2nd  |
| 6  | South Newlandia              | 12   | Purple/Purple | W 63-16 |  4-2   |  1st  |
|    | BREAK                        |      |               |         |        |       |
| 7  | State of Imperial Russia (N) | UR   | Purple/Black  | W 19-13 |  5-2   |  1st  |
| 8  | Quebec and Shingoryeo (N)    | 27   | Purple/Purple | W 42-14 |  6-2   |  1st  |
| 9  | South Newlandia (N)          | 12   | White/White   |         |        |       |
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

by **Ranoria** » Thu May 19, 2022 6:12 pm

Cutoff for the Ranorian half! We're gonna stick with Rihanna for this one.

For those of you being eliminated here (and advancing too!) thanks for making this such a fun first tournament to host for me, and putting up with the technical difficulties I had in MD7. :lol:

Group E

Bongo Johnson 40–57 Abanhfleft
Banija 44–17 Kavanis

P Group E                Pld   W   L   PF   PA   PD     Win %
1 Banija                  9    8   1   379  186 +193    0.889
2 Kavanis                 9    4   5   243  245   −2    0.444
3 Abanhfleft              9    3   6   198  296  −98    0.333
4 Bongo Johnson           9    3   6   174  267  −93    0.333

Group F

Delaclava 31–7 Venmere
Sarzonia 16–14 Kyhun

P Group F                Pld   W   L   PF   PA   PD     Win %
1 Delaclava               9    8   1   248   96 +152    0.889
2 Sarzonia                9    7   2   176   79  +97    0.778
3 Venmere                 9    3   6   158  154   +4    0.333
4 Kyhun                   9    0   9    49  302 −253    0.000

Group G

Chromatika 29–10 United Adaikes
Kohnhead 36–26 Mon Sold

P Group G                Pld   W   L   PF   PA   PD     Win %
1 Chromatika              9    8   1   304  167 +137    0.889
2 Kohnhead                9    5   4   287  263  +24    0.556
3 Mon Sold                9    4   5   229  265  −36    0.444
4 United Adaikes          9    1   8   125  250 −125    0.111

Group H

Quebec and Shingoryeo 23–13 State of Imperial Russia
South Newlandia 20–10 Saint Kanye

P Group H                   Pld    W   L    PF   PA   PD     Win % 
1 South Newlandia             9    7   2   238  218  +20    0.778
2 Saint Kanye                 9    6   3   253  145 +108    0.667
3 Quebec and Shingoryeo       9    5   4   203  209   −6    0.556
4 State of Imperial Russia    9    0   9   118  240 −122    0.000

Seeding:

S    Seeding                  Pld  W   L   PF   PA   PD     Win % 
1: E1 Banija                  9    8   1   379  186 +193    0.889
2: F1 Delaclava               9    8   1   248   96 +152    0.889
3: G1 Chromatika              9    8   1   304  167 +137    0.889
4: H1 South Newlandia         9    7   2   238  218  +20    0.778
5: F2 Sarzonia                9    7   2   176   79  +97    0.778
6: H2 Saint Kanye             9    6   3   253  145 +108    0.667
7: E2 Kavanis                 9    4   5   243  245   −2    0.444
8: G2 Kohnhead                9    5   4   287  263  +24    0.556

*Kavanis and Kohnhead switched to avoid group stage rematch between Banija and Kavanis

Round of 16 Matchups!
Scorinated by Ran - Let's get ready to rumble!

#1 Banija vs. #8 Kohnhead
@EVU Field, Elephant Valley, South Newlandia(7,000)

#4 South Newlandia vs. #5 Sarzonia
@Stadium of Friendship, Elephant Valley, South Newlandia(41,093)

#2 Delaclava vs. #7 Kavanis
@Elephant Field, Elephant Valley, South Newlandia(15,400)

#3 Chromatika vs. #6 Saint Kanye
The Jungledrom, Ratzupalfu, South Newlandia (2,186)

by **Ko-oren** » Fri May 20, 2022 1:29 am

Gridiron - Season 50 - Regular season, part II

The northeast was plagued by bad weather as both Schemerdrecht clubs came to visit. In between the various breaks, both visitors took home the wins. Meanwhile, in perfect conditions in the Bay, the Mayara Wolves lost to a Centaurs team that only scored three points on the day - an early nominee for worst game of the season. Interceptions were the name of the game, whereas the Centaurs normally put together a good offence. The Wolves' running was completely nullified and this is a cause for concern.

This happens sometimes: only four games this week. Excellent crowds in the four stadiums that did open their doors, all drawing at least fifty thousand fans. The league is lucky that all big stadium teams played at home. The scoring might have disappointed a little: there were close games as well as the 9-26 blowout (props to the Sterrenwolde defence in keeping the Admirals to three field goals).

Good conditions for football as the seasons start to change. A close battle in the north between the 65ers and Astronauts set the tone for this week, with close games, huge scorelines, and everything that makes this sport great. On top of that, it was the rural round, which meant that scenic grounds around the country were host to this fantastic slate of games. The tiny Ossendal stadium saw local favourites Sterrenwolde get a comprehensive victory in which the defence, this time, did not have an answer to the Explosions' high octane offence, even if it wasn't enough. The Caspians kept the Admirals to a field goal in Soibourg. The Emperors technically lost in a one-score game to the Destroyers, a great day out for fans of both teams... if they could even get to Tarrashall - it's pretty far out there. Its unpredictable wind always makes for a great game to QBs that play in domes. The Saints and Wolves played a fantastic ad for the sport in Gakhithrau.

Part two of the rural games, where this time the Admirals (scoring nine points last week) keep their opponents to just three. That's not to say that scoring was down: apart from a 10-all draw between Mawryshire and Aminey - not useful to either team trying to get the first seed in their divisions - the Dragonflies lose after weeks of wins to the Destroyers, in what bookies described as a potential early view of the Ko-oren Bowl. The Wolves help their case while it's not too little, too late yet, and the 65ers show their championship ambition by scoring 47 on the no longer terrible Saints.

The last week of rural games make sure that every team plays at least one game 'away'. The Explosions, after weeks of middling performances, score a season high 64 points on the helpless Destroyers, whose roster was thinned out by injury, and their idea to try something different while they had the chance, backfired. It's not often that bookies turn their backs on a team this quickly: the fact that the coaching staff thought they had a creative idea and getting that disproven this badly is something else, all while the Explosions aren't necessarily a top team so far. The Dragonflies get revenge for their loss last week by almost keeping the Saints scoreless apart from two field goals on their final two drives. The Centaurs are kept scoreless in Vleugelberg, and the other games are surprisingly close, all of them.

Back in their regular homes, the week kicks off with some of the worst weather we've seen so far. That's no problem for the dome in Sterrenwolde, that keeps their quarterback dry in a good win over a Godspeed team that seems to have lost their way a little. Aminey and the Wolves score a combined 10 points where a single 78-yard rushing TD gives the latter the victory. The Astronauts stay up there in the playoff picture by defeating the Destroyers and getting a return on that promise of a top 4 defence. The Emperors also get something done with their top four offence and top two defence - they really need to keep winning now to overtake the Mayara teams.

The first rivalry games are on the schedule! It's Sterrenwolde making short work of a poor Aminey team. Ko-oren's biggest cities show what they have in Greencaster, with a close game coming down to a touchdown with just seconds on the clock as the Saints show promise. The Schemerdrecht derby ends in a tie (14-14), the Destroyers' skill positions are too much for their cross-town rivals even if the rest of that team isn't doing it. The southwestern (bad weather) derby makes good on its promise where it's just pouring down, and the Centaurs master the conditions a bit better - and the Emperors, the pre-season champions, are losing the plot. The northeast close down the week with near-zero, snowy, conditions, but a surprisingly entertaining game that ends close. The Explosions remain the better team as they're preparing for another postseason trip.

Aminey aren't getting it done this year, and conceding 58 points proves that. In the closing stretch of the season, with temperatures down, and only divisional games left, you have to do more... but Aminey are pretty much out at this point. The Astronauts keep things close in the eastern division by defeating Sterrenwolde - remember, despite their many wins now, they started the season horribly. Greencaster gets a rare win... and it's over the Emperors, who are now pretty much in tear down mode: this was supposed to be their season - so what's going wrong? The Saints make the West a little more interesting with a huge win in what was supposed to be a close game - 40-10 over the Centaurs. It could have been a blowout between two great offences, but only one showed up.

Sterrenwolde is back to a win, Aminey gets a win over upstart Noordrug who have to wait and see what the competition does, Aerellen leverage the conditions into a win over the Admirals, Eaglebury finally figures something out (too little, too late?), and Mawryshire win the shootout over the Destroyers - who are really showing how much of their squad they lost and how it's just a skill position show now.

In between huge scores, we see one shutout at the end of the weekend, with the Wolves finding no answer in the wild winds of Mawryshire. Before that, we had multiple 60+ points games: the Emperors, finally, find their groove with a 64-pointer over the Saints, who were getting close to that playoff spot. Noordrug are turning things around and getting hot at the right time in the season with a 16-point win over the Admirals. Aerellen is doing what it can to stay in the race in the eastern division, a race that now has five close teams (Aminey are out).

World Bowl XLIV (44) - Everything Thread

Between The Uprights PART ONE

NSFB: All On The Final Game, As Expected

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