World Bowl XLIX [49] Everything Thread

[Quebec and Shingoryeo]

QUEBEC AND SHINGORYEO NATIONAL GRIDIRON TEAM

Nickname: Grim Reapers
Head Coach: Theodore Galstian, 49 - Bonneville State University (QIS)
Coordinators: Errol Cernugel Jr (Defensive) - Kirby Wright (Special Teams)
Rank: 8th
Style Modifier: +5
Jerseys (many thanks to Saint Kanye): Home - Away

OFFENCE

Offensive Coordinator: Theodore Galstian, 49 - Bonneville State University (QIS)
Scheme: Air raid

Team Quebec - Home Venue:Roy Memorial Stadium (cap. 148,777), Cavsar, Cavsarland Caliphate
The Bubonic Plague - Home Complex:Marco's Slaves:tm: SuperShip (popn. 80,000), Cavsarland Mountain Range, Cavsarland Calphate
Team Chant - World Bowl 49 Edition: Cavsarland Delight, Kenneth Albright and The Tuscaloosa

Minor note: The Bubonic Plague
God, not them. The infamous ultras of the Quebecois national teams in various sports have made their names known for their love of indulgences, festivities and most importantly causing chaos and fury wherever they go. Armed with pyrotechnics, torches and of course the hand-held flares, they are famous for their fluorescent banners that are either used to intimidate visiting sides or to humiliate the Grim Reapers for poor performance. Armed with drums, vuvuzelas and musical instruments on top, the sound of the buzzing fans are often a challenge for anybody - both home and away - to play, and while the Bubonic Plague has remained mostly apolitical outside of its usual nationalistic dose, their penchant to end up on various events better that are belonged to current affairs.

Of course, this time they have taken refuge in the arms of familiar faces, by none other than former Champions League-winning footballer, PlayToy mogul and of course, Farfadillis-war-winning warlord, Marco Hertel. Partnering up with an unexpected ally, who has been enjoying semi-retirement in Delaclava with his mercenary group of 40,000 named Marco's Slaves, wasn't what they had in mind. No sane group would consider it unless for a good reason after all!

Fortunately, it did come with a major concession in none other than a major home complex, where the hardcore, dedicated fans of the Reapers are able to have a blast in the gigantic spaceship and its surrounding structures. Whether this will help or harm the performances for them Reapers, who will be staying over in two of the spaceship's floors, will be determined.

Quarterbacks

#- Pos.  Name                     Age  Height College         Assoc. Current Team          League
01 HB    Liam-Emerson SAUVAGEAU    27   6'3"  Queen's College   QIS  Levis Ravens             QFL
02 HB/FB Stefano SHIN              26   6'0"  St-Gab-Richard    QIS  Prince Eric Thunderhawks QFL
04 WR    Hamad BHATT               30   6'2"  USM               QIS  Joongyeong Voyageurs     QFL
07 QB    Octavien SEO-BROUSSEAU    33   5'10" Raynor            NSCF Prince Eric Thunderhawks QFL
08 TE    Kieran KWEON-MCNAIR       23   6'4"  Saguenay          QIS* Univ. du Saguenay        QIS*
10 QB    Benoit O.M. YOUNGBLOOD    30   6'2"  Cold Hill         NSCF Cold Hill University     NSCF
11 WR    HONG Joon-Yeop            27   5'11" Beyreuth          QIS  Oakwood Siberias         QFL
15 WR    Lucan MODDEJONGE          25   6'2"  Saguenay          QIS* Attawapiskat Broncos     QFL
16 QB    Hydrien VEINOT-CYR        22   6'0"  Hanbat State      QIS  Hanbat State University  QIS*
22 HB    RYU Seong-Weon            25   5'11" St. Croix         QIS* Jeongju Javelins         QFL
38 HB    Dara WILLIAMS-SIMAKAN     24   6'0"  St. Croix         QIS* Saguenay Saints          QFL
40 SB    Guy FELZEN-ROZIER         25   6'1"  UPRI              QIS  Shelbourne Marroons      QFL
59 OG    Maurice JI-HWANG          23   6'3"  Saguenay          QIS* Saint John Steelers      QFL
61 OG    Marwin FINLAYSON          23   6'8"  LeBois Santura    NSCF LeBois Santura Univ.     NSCF
64 OT    KWAKU Jean                30   6'5"  Gaspe             QIS  Kingston Argonauts       QFL
65  C    Helene LINDEBAUM          30   6'2"  Saguenay          QIS  Fiston Redwolves         RFL
66 OG    Emerson FLORES            28   6'2"  Bonneville State  QIS  Dongnae Schooners        QFL
67 OG    Kimmie LAFRENIERE-DJUNA   26   6'3"  St. Croix         QIS* Kingston Argonauts     QFL
70 OT    Elna CARNEIRO             28   6'0"  Keewatinook       QIS  Oakwood Siberias         QFL
73 OT    Maurice MERCER-KAYODE     25   6'4"  Saguenay          QIS* Attawapiskat Broncos  QFL
76 OT    Jeremie CHAREST-YOON      29   6'4"  Queen's College   QIS  Joongyeong Voyageurs     QFL
81 WR    Caroline KRIEF-MENCEL     31   6'2"  Abitibi           QIS  Songwha City Roughriders QFL
82 TE    Patrice DAINTREE          25   6'4"  Northwestern      QIS  Levis Ravens             QFL
83 WR    Marc-Antoine JOO          27   6'5"  UPRI              QFL  Jolbonopolis Raiders     QFL
86 WR    Philbert VILLENEUVE-NIX   24   5'10" Southern Manitoba QIS  Kingston Argonauts       QFL
87 WR    GONG HYEON-SEOK           29   6'0"  Saguenay          QIS* Oakwood Siberias         QFL
89 WR    Jean-Christophe PROVOST   29   6'4"  Meghanville State QIS  Balafre Bootleggers      RFL

DEFENCE

Defensive Coordinator: Errol Cernugel Jr., 52 - Prince Eric Thunderhawks (QFL)
Scheme: 3-4 with aggressive mix of blitz packages (let's call that Wade Phillips defence)

No. Pos. Name                                Age  Height College      Assoc.    Current Team             League  Note
03   ILB  Rebecca REISCHEL                     29    6'2" Iqaluit        QIS    New Quebec Fighters         RFL
05    SS  William BRODEUR-KISER                23    6'0" Saguenay       QIS*   Songak Giants               QFL
06    FS  Celine NADIE-ORENDA                  29    6'1" Meghanville SU QIS    Attawapiskat Broncos        QFL
08    DE  Nahuel VERCHEVAL-MAYARDIT            26    6'3" Saguenay A&M   QIS    Songak Giants               QFL
09   OLB  Everson WRIGHT III                   23    6'4" St. Croix      QIS    Saint John Steelers         QFL
11    CB  Xavier MCKELLEN-CORUM                26   5'11" Songwha State  QIS    Songak Jets                 QFL     
23    CB  Marc-Andre HWANG                     29    6'1" LNU            QIS    Banbh Mustangs              QFL
26    CB  OH Seong-Weon                        21    6'0" Yongma College QIS    Saint John Steelers         QFL
27    CB  Michelle CASTELLAN-BAHNG             28   5'10" Iggulden       QIS    Dongnae Schooners           QFL
31    CB  Silas NAM                            31   5'11" Hanbat State   QIS    Jeongju Javelins            QFL
14   RVR  Edouard JOH-Waabshkii’ogi            25   5'11" Saguenay       QIS*   Universite du Saguenay      QIS*
47    SS  Bojana RASIC KIM                     30    6'4" NMU           NSCF    Prince Eric Thunderhawks    QFL
48    LB  Alexei RANDANOVICH                   21    6'2" Hamilton       QIS    University of Hamilton      QIS*
52   ILB  Corey WATERMAN                       28    6'4" Mount Ester    QIS    Attawapiskat Broncos        QFL
51   ILB  Raymond-Luca WANAUDI                 25    6'4" St. Croix      QIS*   Joongyeong Voyageurs        QFL
54    LB  Kennedy ADONGO                       28    6'3" Keewatinook    QIS    Levis Ravens                QFL
56   OLB  Jar Jar MUNCEY                       33    6'3" St-GR          QIS    Prince Eric Thunderhawks    QFL
90 DE/DT  Aiden VAN WYSBERGHE                  28    6'3" Northwestern   QIS    Saguenay Saints             QFL
91    NT  Martin BOULERICE                     23    6'4" Sangju College QIS    Levis Ravens                QFL
92   OLB  Leon CHANKOOWASHTAY                  32    6'1" St. Croix      QIS*   Joongyeong Voyageurs        QFL
93    DE  KWAK Ji-Yeon                         27    6'3" LNU            QIS    Jeongju Javelins            QFL
94    NT  EDEN PARK                            32    6'5" Cold Hill     NSCF    Pittsburgh Ironmen          RFL
96    DE  Frederic BENN-KOCIAN                 30    6'2" St. Croix      QIS*   Pittsburgh Ironmen          RFL
98    DL  Genevieve PENN                       24    6'4" Saguenay       QIS*   Kingston Argonauts          QFL

Special Teams

Special Teams Coordinator: Kirby Wright, 51 - University of Constantinople (NSCF)

No. Pos. Name                     Age  College               Assoc. Current Team            League Note
01    P  Kim AUDETTE               32  Queen's College         QIS  Kingston Argonauts         QFL
37    K  ONELE DYANI               28  Huronia Tech            QIS  Attawapiskat Broncos       QFL
44   LS  Francois WOO-KOKOTNI      31  Yongma College          QIS  Joongyeong Voyageurs       QFL
48  K/P  Ludovic PLEYEL-BARNES     26  Navy                    QIS  Royal Quebecois Navy       N/A

RP Permissions
Choose my scorers: Y, duh
Godmod scoring events: Y
RP injuries to my players: Y
Godmod Injuries to my players: N
Suspend my players: Y, with prior discussion
Godmod suspension events: N
Godmod other events: N

[TJUN-ia]

Gridiron Football. A very peculiar game that can change fates on a dime. Last time out, the Jaguars of TJUN-ia performed well in the group stage but fell off in the knockouts thanks to some bad luck with the draw. Still, we enter this new World Bowl cycle as the #2 ranked team in this competition...something not lost upon Gus McKerrin and his staff. Being the world number two, the bridesmaid of the rankings system, is a certain tye of pressure this team hasn't really had to deal with in the past...and yet, this team has to in order to make it out of this South Division alive. Nine games, many different stadiums and nine different opponents. This is a gauntlet and one we will try to escape with as few scrapes as possible.

Each team at this tournament has a "home" stadium here in Drawkland that counts as their home base for this group stage, with ours being the Stad-Stallion in Raikennax, but we would start our campaign over at Callcom Stadium in Masteser against the #23 Juvencus Brutes. Opening games can always throw up surprises, as you never tell if what you have been working on all this time is going to click immediately or not, and couple that with a new starting QB in the form of Leon Gallas, and you have the perfect recipe for a scoreline such as this one. This game was a shoot-out, and one that Claudia Guerreiro was one part of in this crazy scenario we found ourselves in. Samir Miraflores Israel balled out in this game, with 6 TDs to his name brought home by Filippo Crema and Francesco Sanguini, with Pino Carboni going 5/6 on PATs. S.M.I had the lead for most of this contest but when ever he got a score in, Gallas found a way to respond and in quick time at that. Lucky Sithole-Sita, Fremont Whitehorse and Gilbert Nyamutsamba all ended up with two TDs each in this crazy game but the real hero of this matter was new kicker and husband to the QB Xander Tiovannen, who hit 5/6 PATs and a FG as time expired to win the game 44-41. What a crazy start. GGs to the Brutes.

Very entertaining, but we must move on - Kamijiro is up next in this long road. GO JAGS!

---

SCHEDULE (South Division) - based at Stad-Stallion, Raikennax
MD1: vs Juvencus (23) - Callcom Stadium, Masteser W 44-41 (5th/1-0)
MD2: vs Kamijiro (UR) - Stad-Stallion, Raikennax
MD3: vs Vaishnavaria (UR) - The AnvoDome, Yokare
MD4: vs South Americanastan (15) - Stad-Stallion, Raikennax
MD5: vs Banija (6) - Waxton City Dome, Waxton
MD6: vs Lisander (24) - Stad-Stallion, Raikennax
MD7: vs New Umoja (UR) - Ferris-Deltore Stadium, Waylook
MD8: vs Abanhfleft (12) - Sector 6 Stadium, Corinth City
MD9: vs The Kytler Peninsulae (9) - Stad-Stallion, Raikennax

[South Newlandia]

Sluggish Elephants do just enough to come away with victory against Kinqueven

In their opening game of World Bowl 49, played at their temporary home of Plexen Stadium, the Pachyderm offense clearly hasn’t yet shaken the rust of their one-cycle absence. Playing the unranked team from Kinqueven, QB Zach Stevens threw for just 112 yards on 31 attempts, including an interception and one touchdown.

The Elephants won this game on the strength of their defense, which held their opponents to three points by forcing a total of four turnovers. One of them, early in the second half, was a strip-sack of the Kinquevenian quarterback when Shivay Patil got home on a third-down blitz. The loose ball was recovered by Keyaan Brandt, setting the Elephants up with the ball already in the red zone.

Four plays later, Stevens found Tight End van Halfensen for a three-yard score to put the Elephants up 13-3; this would also be the final score of the game. The Ellies did have chances to add on; Fantikos lost a fumble deep in enemy territory, and Nicolo Lorenz missed a difficult 53-yard field goal after being good from 44 and 28 yards earlier in the game; a reasonable outcome on a fairly windy day in Pittsenat.

For the rest of the squad, improvements will be required to persevere against stronger opposition; the team is headed to Belmore next to face Terefuxe, who routed the usually stout Dragonflies by hanging 54 on their heads; that’s more than I expected them to allow the entire group stage.

In the meantime, star Elephants van Halfensen, Kaltmann, Sörens and Fantikos joined quarterback Stevens on a trip to the Pittsennat Zoological Gardens. They did so to raise funds to protect the pachyderms, known to some as unicorn elephants, from habitat destruction and poaching across the multiverse. “Elephants are not the only kind of pachyderms that need our help”, said van Halfensen, wearing a novelty paper rhino horn crookedly on his face.

fantikos.thomas

17m

Snow Bears still sleepy after missing some action (hibernating), but they’ll bounce back against Katzeburg - #GoKrauts #WB49 (Although I like the Wildcats too)

robert.stein7

13m

Big elefan of the format – no more hosting football powerhouses in South Newlandian areans with like seventeen seats, that’s always been silly #WB49 #HostBidGate

cute.animals

8m

That unicorn elephant fundraiser video was so amazing! By the way, the noises the babies make are unbelievably cute! https://x.com/i/status/1798837350258049216
#SaveTheRhinos #UnicornEllies #LovePachyderms

[Sarzonia]

Sarzonia's recent history against their next opponents, Ko-oren, has not been kind.

In the recent past, the Sarzonian national gridball team were unable to figure out how to score against a notoriously stingy Dragonflies side. Then-manager Gavin Davis was unable to draw up a set of offensive tactics that would give Sarzonia scoring opportunities.

Now, that responsibility falls on new manager Tyler Paige and offensive coordinator Trent Beaucamp, both of whom are tasked with trying to not just develop an offence that can move the ball against the Ko-orenite defence, but also force turnovers in plus-territory and give the Stars short fields.

"Their opening match notwithstanding, it's going to be a challenge scoring points against that team," Paige said. They play an aggressive, ball-hawking style and feast on turnovers and sacks."

Beaucamp said he and passing game coordinator Mike Pendry talked about adding more quick passes, screens and slants to increase the high-percentage throws in quarterback Cameron Stallworth's arsenal, but Beaucamp ultimately decided not to.

"Cam is who he is," Beaucamp said. "I think he really came into his own last World Bowl and shined for us in the biggest moments. More importantly, Tyler and I talked about molding quarterbacks into what we want for our offence and we both agreed that would be a mistake."

Beaucamp said he's worked under head coaches and coordinators who tried turning mobile quarterbacks into pocket passers and "screwed up" their mechanics. He said he worked with Stallworth to try reducing turnovers, but said his aggressiveness was essential to how Stallworth plays.

"We don't want him second-guessing himself or hesitant about taking shots when they're open," Beaucamp said. "If he's got Matt Largent open on a fly route downfield and the line's giving him time to throw, I don't want him dinking and dunking."

Stallworth said he respected the Dragonflies defence and said finding the right balance between aggressive and reckless was his biggest challenge.

"They're going to put pressure on you whether they blitz every down or drop eight in coverage," he said. "We want to attack them when the opportunity to opens up, but I also want to make sure I'm not giving them short fields."

Ty'Relle Clinton also is expected to play an important role in Beaucamp's tactics for the match, as the running back is expected to get at least 25 carries if everything goes to plan.

Clinton said he was expecting to get the rock and hoped that an effective ground game would slow down the Dragonflies pass rushers and open passing lanes for Stallworth.

"If we can give them some different looks, we'll do better as a team," he said. "Maybe me and [running back] Paul [Edgerton] will give them some looks they're not expecting."

Paige said he and defensive line coach Joyce Latimer were coaching the defensive line to get their hands up when Dragonflies quarterback Piers Masman throws the ball in hopes of taking advantage of his lack of height. Defensive coordinator Lonnie Hertschlager said he, Latimer and linebackers coach Jerome London were preaching keeping contain.

"Masman is dangerous if you let him get out of the pocket," Hertschlager said. "We're likely going to put a spy on him, but we also talked about sticking with your assignments and not letting him break contain."

The fact that the Dragonflies lost their opening match in a 54-26 shocker against Terefuxe also weighted on Paige's and the rest of the Stars' minds.

"They'll be out for blood," he said. "We knew going in that we'd get their best shot anyway as World Bowl champions, but they're going to be playing with a real sense of urgency. They don't wanna drop to 0-2, not with this group of teams in the Eastern Division."

[Kamijiro]

Gridiron of Kamijiro, Part One: Ugly Win!

Ever seen a quadruple option offense? One that just runs the option over and over and over again?

Well, go check out Kamijiro's 13-0 win over New Umoja. Because that was the only play call the entire game for the Lightning offense. Not a single forward pass was thrown by Alex Daniels. He and his backfield trio of Elyndra Laeoris, Callie Marix and Rui Nishigaya racked up over 250 yards of rushing.

The quadruple option is a strange invention in Kamijiroan gridiron, diagrammed below. (It's run in both directions, left and right).

Diagrammed online using playartpro.com

As seen above, the fullback dives up the middle to begin the play. If there's no defensive tackle lined up in the A-Gap, then Rui takes the ball up the gut. If not, then Daniels pulls the ball back and takes off. If the defensive end keys onto him, he pitches the ball back. Then, if the linebacker or defensive back is sitting on that as well, then the fullback swings the ball back again to the other fullback to try to swing to the outside. Does it work? Yeah, sometimes. It worked against New Umoja.

But the spotlight of the game surely belongs to the defense. Not allowing a single point is a very difficult task in modern gridiron. Especially against foreign teams that aren't as gun-shy about slinging the rock around. But despite this (and despite lining up in a very run stop-heavy defense), the Kamijiroans kept a shutout. The only real miscue in the game was a missed extra point from Alex Daniels on the second touchdown of the day.

All in all, perhaps the unorthodox approach by the Lightning in this game was something that actually helped the team more than hurt, something most major sports publications back home weren't expecting. Whether or not the team will be able to stop a much more established TJUN-ia side is another question. The other question - can the Kamijiroans get away with running the same play over and over again against a team as powerful as the Jaguars?

[New Rotterdam City]

KALEIDOSCOPE
Winter Storm, First Part
—

The Cloth Hall was built in the Middle Ages. Van Ryckers, the architect, designed its gothic niches and spires in a fit of inspired admiration for his feudal lord. That vassal's name is lost; the Cloth Hall still stands.

The Cloth Hall,
Den Haag, the seat of Dutch government. From here New Rotterdam is ruled, 3,500 miles away.

It is a parliament of the black robes of the patroons, the Dutch regents, gathered from their estates in Zeeland and Holland and Friesland and the swampish backwaters (from which crawled the De Pauw family) and the mercantile cities (the urban patroons were even snootier than the rest of them). Not often was so much power gathered between four tapestried walls.

The round and cranky Jan Houben makes his way to a wooden dais, which backed the wall, and before it is spread an arrangement of wood risers and the clusters of regents by family and allegiance. Jan Houben is Grand Pensionary of the Dutch Republic. He was born the son of a wool-dyer and trade guildsman. Now the chief minister of the Netherlands; but his love is not great for the entitled and self-occupied oligarch families of this country. Jan Houben gavels the room.

De Jongh Family Cornelis de Jongh is an old man now but still sharp of mind. He perches his creaking body perched atop a fine pillow in the back row of seats in the de Jongh cluster. His sons and nephews argue in hushed voices below him. Cornelis smiles. He waves over Dirksendorp, his weaselly son-in-law and consigliere; "we will be cleaning house today."

Bruyne Family The hook-nosed and stiff-chinned Bruynes sat with their backs straight, and hawkishly quiet. The Heer¹ Bruyne's curly hair bobs as his head sways. He surveys the chamber as a crow would. Bruynes are no friend to many other families.

Jan Houben, the presider over this congress, addressed the room. New Rotterdam is sick. New Rotterdam's challenges are great. New Rotterdam's potentials are great. New Rotterdam is stagnant. The Governor-General is ill-prepared. New Rotterdam is no longer a settler colony and has not been for a generation's time. New Rotterdam is in the balance of this hall.

Rijnders Family True. The Rijnders family nodded. Heer Rijnders swept his eyes across the room. He locked gaze with Corenlis De Jongh.

Bicker Family The Bicker family is represented solely by Lars Bicker-Loens, a first cousin to the Bickers of Utrecht. He sits alone, with a berth wide enough for one of the Republic's most antique and storied families, but the rest of the Bickers will not be in the Cloth Hall today; they are on their way to the New World. Lars Bicker-Loens runs a small joint-stock company. He has no interest in picking the new Governor-General.

Slingerland Family The Slingerlands will be feasting on roast pheasant tonight, because this is the first confirmation of the rumors that the whole damned Bicker family has left the Netherlands for New Rotterdam. The Bickers have been boxed out of Utrecht by the Slingerlands. First they took the craft guilds and the merchant banks, then the Calvinist preachers followed, then the university faculty and the landowners of tenant farms, and now they're left with the spoils. The Bicker family helped found the medieval city back when the Slingerlands were serf farmers. Nevermind New Rotterdam—the Slingerlands already taste victory.

Troelstra Family Perfect Calvinists from Friesland with nary a thought of toleration among them. Christiaan Troelstra is the first to nominate a candidate. He marches to Jan Houben and hands him a vellum slip. The nine Troelstra daughters and sons sit still and obedient.

Ouderdijk Family Perfect mercantilists from Amsterdam with a healthy fortune invested in the overseas colony and rowdy talkers them, all lined up on the front benches of one set of Cloth Hall risers.

De Jongh Family Cornelis De Jongh whispers a command to one of his boys.

Bruyne Family Heer Bruyne has not taken his eyes of Cornelis De Jongh once during the congress. Heer De Jongh whispers to his son; Heer Bruyne shakes the shoulder of a nephew roughly and barks an order at him. The younger Bruyne jumps up and scurries to the Van Berkel family.

Van Berkel Family Willem Van Berkel sleeps with the wife of Heer Bruyne twice a week.

De Pauw Family The De Pauws began as dijk builders in swampy Haarlem and have yet to shake the status of being the newest elites. The De Pauws are said to be searching for way to make their name; but in this assembly they've been only quiet observers.

De Jongh Family De Jongh sends up a vellum strip.

Ouderdijk Family Heer Ouderdijk sends up a vellum strip.

De Jongh Family De Jongh sends his son over to the Ouderdijk patriarch.

Ouderdijk Family Ouderdijk withdraws his vellum strip.

Bruyne Family Heer Bruyne's nephew passes a vellum strip to Jan Houben.

Van Berkel Family Heer Van Berkel loudly endorses Bruyne's nominee. Heads turn.

Troelstra Family And Christiaan Troelstra endorses an inquisition of Catholics and witches in New Rotterdam.

Jan Houben bangs his gavel and bangs and bangs it again.
__


Mid-Atlantic Ocean
Aboard the Maarten Tromp, flagship of a settler convoy

Heer Adriaen Pieterszoon Bicker–van der Knolk, House of Bicker of Utrecht and Zeist, grips the Maarten Tromp's wood railing and leans over its edge. He squints into the bobs of waves miles away.

Heer Bicker's son Matthijs walks up to him in the princely way of the Bickers. Adriaen Bicker has wiry black hair and so do the rest of his daughters and sons. The Bickers are known to be smart and not to be pretty but Matthijs has hair gold and dry as hay and sharp cheeks. He joins his father on the railing of the deck. In their fine coats the Bicker men stand out from the sailors running and climbing about them. The Maarten Tromp is a beautiful and massive ship; the Bickers inhabit rich quarters with down pillows and satin curtains. This whole ship and most of the convoy revolves about them and the portage of their fortune to New Rotterdam; indeed most of the Maarten Tromp's work has been to glide noblemen to a wealthy life in the new world, and this is its dozenth trip.

"The ship's cook told me they have saved the herring for this day. It will be a feast. We would not feel out of place in Utrecht. He says we wouldn't feel out of place here at all from Utrecht."

Adriaen Bicker nods. "Matthijs." He tosses a hand above his head in the direction of the sails; they are jerked about by a crescendoing wind. "Look."

"A storm is coming?"

"A storm has come." The sky is gray, dark, and churning. "It is moving westward. And we will surely feel it in New Rotterdam."

"It's quite early for a winter storm."

Adriaen Bicker looks at his son. "It is early for a winter storm. Maybe it was planned, just on time to bless our landing."

Matthijs laughs and he looks back at his father who gazes out on a sea which has turned choppy and sharp.
__


New Rotterdam
Not more than a day later

A cold slush rain beats on the windowpanes of the Governor-General's House as its occupant watches the port from inside. His people are rushing about holding their coats over their heads; trying to close their business before rain-slush turns into hail and sleet.

Godfried Knop has laid his jacket on the back of his chair and his hat atop his jacket and he paces around the room, mindlessly and uselessly, playing with his cuffs, letting his gray ponytail rest on his back. Knop is a strong and lean man who has become sedentary, older than he likes to imagine himself—now the Governor-General stops abruptly his pacing. He turns to the window. He watches the cold slush rain beat. His hand runs through his lax gray ponytail. He sits in the wooden chair of the Governor-General now. Before him has been spread a map of the colony. An hour ago he sent away his secretary, who had scrawled in the names and the details of the new settlements springing up quick as vole dens. A lot has been scrawled on this map. Godfried Knop leans back in his chair and lays his arms bent over the top of it, as the rain beats with uptempo pace on his walls and roof and windowpanes.

---

¹ Gentleman; "Herr", "Sir"

[Drawkland]

From the desk of Reuben Turnbull,
Director of Hosting at the Drawkian International Sporting Council

---

Greetings football fans of the multiverse.

It has come to my attention that some fans and associations have become displeased with the prescribed format of World Bowl XLIX. As the Director of Hosting at the Drawkian International Sporting Council, I was heavily involved with the planning process of this bid and gave it the final sign-off before we submitted the bid to the World Bowl Assembly. I am quite well-informed on the inner workings of this format, and would like to "clear the air," to ensure that everybody is on the same page.

The primary grievance we've noticed is related to the revenue earned by each team participating in the World Bowl. Of course, with the lack of true home games for the associations taking part in this tournament, some would be led to believe that Drawkland is keeping all of the spoils for this edition. This is simply not the case! DISC has instituted a profit-sharing initiative for this edition. There wouldn't be much point in assigning specific venues for teams to serve as a "home away from home" without allowing them some financial advantages for it, would there? The biggest advantage, of course, is making it financially viable for visiting fans to watch multiple games without having to spend lots of money on intercity travel.

The first benefit for each national team is the savings from travel benefits. DISC has worked with every hosting city to ensure that the accommodations for each team are taken care of, in order to limit the financial burden on each visiting team. Rather than having to pay for consistent back-and-forth travel for the typical home-and-away format, teams have only had to pay for the one trip to reach Drawkland before the start of the tournament.

The main financial boon for all World Bowl teams is in the home game ticket sales. Originally we planned to keep these details proprietary, but we felt that pulling back the curtain a bit could help assuage concerns of unfair revenue distribution. For every single group stage and playoff game hosted at a designated "home" venue, ticket sales are split between the home team, visiting team, and host, similar to a collegiate bowl game.

More specifically, the "home" team in a given matchup is given rights to sell 30% of the tickets, compared to 20% for the visiting team, and 50% for the venue itself (which has a confidential internal split between the venue owners and DISC). This ensures that fans of both teams have guaranteed access to seating throughout the stadium. For the designated team tickets, affiliate links are provided for the nation's association to provide to their own fans. 90% of these proceeds are kept by that particular association. Tickets that are not sold through the affiliate links become available in-person at the box office on the day of the game when gates open. Profit from tickets sold by the venue (either the 50% designated tickets or leftover affiliate tickets from the box office) are distributed at 35% for the "home" team, 25% for the "visiting" team, and 40% for the venue.

For example, let's consider the half of teams in this World Bowl who will only have 4 "home games." If all of those games sell out, the team earns 90% of 20% of the tickets, and 35% of 50% of the tickets. This equates to almost 45% of the revenue for every home game, not to mention the over 30% revenue from each away game. In the average World Bowl group stage, national teams get anywhere between 3-6 home games where they keep a majority of the ticket proceeds. The sales from the World Bowl 49 format equates to more than 3 home games in the standard format. This is before you consider the fact that even the smaller Drawkian stadiums are larger than the national stadiums for many participating nations.

Another aspect to note is that the larger income pulled in by DISC this edition will result in larger prize payouts for teams that advance to the playoffs and beyond in this World Bowl. All in all, DISC has made every effort to ensure that all teams playing in Drawkland are receiving adequate compensation for the crowds they draw while playing in our beautiful nation and venues. Some would even say that the Drawkian venues are getting a smaller share than they rightfully deserve.

We hope that this helps relieve some worries or even accusations of unfairness directed towards our nation and governing body. DISC is happy to respond to any further complaints or concerns for the remainder of the tournament. Of course, we invite any World Bowl Assembly association to submit formal complaints to the President of the Assembly, former GLD commissioner Wally Jackson. We're sure he will be willing to shed more light on the World Bowl's selection process.

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With great pride,
Rueben Turnbull
Director of Hosting, DISC

Undersigned:
Brett Nichols, Director of Gridiron, DISC
Harvey Flantar, Head Director, DISC

[Drawkland]

WORLD BOWL 49
XLIX - MD2

Cutoff for day two!

Glad to see a few more rosters. I don't think we'll reach 100%, but I am still very impressed by the turnout. Thank you to everyone!

For transparency, New Umoja has requested a style mod change from -0.667 to 2.333, which has been granted. With that plus the -5 and +5 from Ko and Queb, the average style mod is now -0.113 for the tournament. Cool!

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North Division

Quebec and Shingoryeo 13–7 Crpostran
Langenia 13–17 Chromatika
Nova Calania 36–24 Valanora
New Rotterdam City 24–13 Natkr
Drawkland 30–14 Delaclava

 # North Division        Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Chromatika              2   2  0   61  16 +45
 2 Drawkland               2   2  0   48  29 +19
 3 Delaclava               2   1  1   48  58 −10
 4 New Rotterdam City      2   1  1   52  47  +5
 5 Natkr                   2   1  1   42  51  −9
 6 Nova Calania            2   1  1   63  53 +10
 7 Quebec and Shingoryeo   2   1  1   28  25  +3
 8 Valanora                2   1  1   47  49  −2
 9 Langenia                2   0  2   26  40 −14
10 Crpostran               2   0  2   10  57 −47

East Division

Ko-oren 16–13 Sarzonia
HUElavia 33–0 Aurevbush
Ranoria 24–7 Katzeburg
Kinqueven 7–21 Cardenao
Terefuxe 0–7 South Newlandia

 # East Division         Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 HUElavia                2   2  0   52   0 +52
 2 Cardenao                2   2  0   41  20 +21
 3 South Newlandia         2   2  0   20   3 +17
 4 Terefuxe                2   1  1   54  33 +21
 5 Ko-oren                 2   1  1   42  67 −25
 6 Sarzonia                2   1  1   49  33 +16
 7 Ranoria                 2   1  1   37  27 +10
 8 Kinqueven               2   0  2   10  34 −24
 9 Katzeburg               2   0  2    7  43 −36
10 Aurevbush               2   0  2   17  69 −52

South Division

Abanhfleft 20–27 Banija
Lisander 0–24 South Americanastan
New Umoja 23–9 Vaishnavaria
TJUN-ia 12–16 Kamijiro
The Kytler Peninsulae 30–20 Juvencus

 # South Division        Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Banija                  2   2  0   71  41 +30
 2 The Kytler Peninsulae   2   2  0   72  45 +27
 3 Kamijiro                2   2  0   29  12 +17
 4 South Americanastan     2   1  1   45  44  +1
 5 New Umoja               2   1  1   23  22  +1
 6 TJUN-ia                 2   1  1   56  57  −1
 7 Lisander                2   1  1   23  44 −21
 8 Juvencus                2   0  2   61  74 −13
 9 Vaishnavaria            2   0  2   29  46 −17
10 Abanhfleft              2   0  2   45  69 −24

[Banija]

Short Preview- Upcoming GFLB Season

Introduction- Format and Scheduling

What the GFLB right now is looking for, is stability. And they seemingly have found it- settling in on a format introduced around World Bowl 46. 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. There will be a bye week after Week 9(traditionally rivalry weekend on the domestic college scene), and, with a 17 schedule, the second bye remains. 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. Ergo, each team only plays one preseason game.

Teams, of course, schedule their own pre-season games in this league. The GFLB has de-regulated preseason games- people schedule however they want, against domestic or foreign teams. Ever popular joint practices are expected to become more of the norm, and teams will be allowed and encouraged to play pre-season games against teams from other leagues.

What about the playoff format? That is easy. The six division winners, and the next six best teams by record 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 TItle Game name is called "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 have our divisions.

There has been a lot of team stability- same amount of teams, no division realignment, just one relocation. The Port Stovine Sea Turtles, formerly based in Northwest Kalactin, have relocated back to Banija, to Duntho in Northeast Hangaza. They will be dubbed the "Duntho Oilers", in recognition of the importance of the oil industry to Banija at-large, and Hangaza specifically.

The league contains 21 teams in Banija, and three foreign teams- the Dukuma Dragons(from the Busoga Islands), the Mar Sara Night Elves(from Valanora), and the St. Jakob Honey Badgers (from Siovanija & Teusland).

North Division
Mynda Gorillas. Mynda, Aksum. (Ownership change, team was sold by the Electra Corp to TK Korp from Tumbra).
Askatasuna Wildcats. Askatasuna, Aksum.
Aissa Crocodiles. Aissa, Hangaza.
Jinja City Springboks. Jinja City, Hangaza.

Moravica Division
Kosactus Red Vultures. Kosactus, Moravica.
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.
Busembe Timberwolves. Busembe, Kitara
Sisonke Leopards. Sisonke, Kitara.

South Division
Mukeruzi Hyenas. Mukeruzi, Ankole.
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.
Lwanga Rhinos. Lwanga, Buganda.
Umbazi Metropolitan Sporting Club. Umbazi, Buganda
Igulu Bush Elephants. Igulu, Hangaza.

East Division
Duntho Oilers. Duntho, Hangaza.
Bunyoro Regional Sporting Club. Dodomo, Bunyoro.
Bwubanza Ostriches. Bwubanza, Bunyoro.
St. Jakob Honey Badgers. St. Jakob, Teusland.

For scheduling purposes, the South, Central, and West divisions are paired together, while the North, Moravica, and East divisions are paired together this season.

While the GFLB generally used geography as a guiding principle for division formation, they ultimately prioritized rivalry retainment over geographic balance. 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.
- While Duntho, upon their move back to Banija from Northwest Kalactin, are arguably the league's northern-most team, they remained in the East Division instead of causing more alignment by being moved to the North Division.

However, that does not mean there will be no realignment in the future

- With the formation of the Oilers, there are now four teams in Hangaza- enough for its own division. There were major debates about putting all 4 Hangaza teams in the same division, however, it was determined that would cause too much cascading realignment effects for this season. Don't be surprised if that changes ahead of next season.

- The last note to make is that the GFLB will do a series of select 'one-off' international games, as they double and triple down on their international growth strategy. This year, they will play 5 games abroad, not in the home stadiums of their teams. Those locations are(in chronological order)

#1 Cardenao. Will play at the Stadi Nacional(cap. 58,885) in New Cardonia, Cardenao.
#2 Qusmo. Will play at the Mastad uni•q(cap. 61,125) in Atlem, Qusmo.
#3 Tumbra. Will play at Oceanside Stadium(cap. 44,000) in Marray, Tumbra.
#4 Chromatika. TBD
#5 The Commonwealth of Baker Park. Will play at Jacob F Gleason Field(cap. 47,306) in College Hill--Belle Haven, State of Baker Park, Commonwealth of Baker Park

GFLB Rosters

A couple of OOC notes on the rosters:
#1 (For everyone): If you have players in my league, the aging is almost certainly disastrous. For that, I apologize. They are unlikley to match WB ages- so don't feel as if you have to match the ages I have.
#2 (For everyone): Sorry the format isn't posted on the boards, It is simply much easier to maintain via Google Sheets.
#3 (for everyone): I'm not above making mistakes. If there is one made, DM me on Discord or TG me and I will correct them.

All-Banija Sports Magazine Division Predictions
(D) = Division champ
(X) = Wild Card

North Division
1. Aissa Crocodiles(D)
2. Jinja City Springboks
3. Mynda Gorillas
4. Askatasuna Wildcats

Blurb: This division is past its glory days. Ice Chineze was the QB of the Crocodiles for years, shredding every defense between here and the Karmin-Falce Superdome, no matter the competition, for about 2 decades straight. But now he's retired, and the future is here for the Crocs. None of these teams are very inspiring, which makes this division preview an interesting one.

Somebody's gotta win this division, right? So we're going to pick the Aissa Crocodiles. Their replacement for Ice Chineze, Yeyeh Bardi, hasn't exactly emulated his predecessor. But who can? Might be an impossible ask. But make no mistake about it- they've got dudes around him, and that might be enough to win a division that is this poor. They might have the best OL in the entire league- which will give big holes for Jebel Marenah, a perenially underrated HB out of NMU, to run through. They are going to be built on solid defense and running the ball- should be enough to win the division. But if too many games are left up to the QB... Then that will not happen.

What about everybody else? The Gorillas probably have the best chance in this division at grabbing the Northern title. That secondary is elite- the Ole Bakker/Wanzala Ssemeere CB duo is terrifying for any QB to deal with, and their ability to leave both CBs on islands, while they bring all sorts of men, is their seperator. They've got a rookie QB- who knows what will happen there? But first round QB, and second round HB, grabbing Alejandro Garrina out of LeBSU, means interesting things will happen with their offense.

As for the Wildcats or Springboks, we're so sorry- neither team will compete for much of anything. The cupboard is bare for both teams, and if they are in the playoffs, it's probably because the suits expanded the GFLB playoffs from 12 to 24 in this 24 team league.

Moravica Division
1. Istria Black Mambas(D)
2. Herzegovina City Cobras(X)
3. Rukunbi Wizards(X)
4. Kosactus Red Vultures

This might be the most interesting division in the entire league. You've got three teams with talented QBs hitting the absolute primes of their careers- and they are wasting no time trying to win with their QBs. It's an arm race- nerve wracking for the teams and fans involved, but truly, how the sport should be.

The Istria Black Mambas, of course, have the Banijan NT starter- Kadesh Odika, of FSU fame. Dude has so many NSCF trophies that he can't even fit them on his wall. He's entering his 3rd season with the team. His rookie year was lost, due to an ACL tear ahead of training camp. Year 2 he struggled- they lacked the weapons to give him a real passing attack. But, armed with draft capital, they remade their roster. They went bold- trading down from the #3 spot in the draft, getting an army of assets- and putting them to good use. They were paying attention to the Celestia revolution in Dukuma- drafting both Godwin Tamuka and Joshua Okombo from the Islamic University in the first round. Star HB and star WR- give Odika weapons. And then, a coup- trading both of their first and second round pick next season for Russell Farmer, superstar TE. A homecoming for the younger Farmboy- he went to college in the city. But suddenly, they might have the most terrifying offense in the league. Their defense leaves much to be desired, but do you see those weapons?

Beyond them let's take a look at the Herzegovina City Cobras. They've got the Banijan NT backup QB in Baka Webo on the team- who is a BCSG National champion, and the starter at the last World Bowl. It's a classic rivalry between these two cities, combined with how these QBs interface for the NT- sparks are going to fly with these hated rivals. They've got him some weapons. Drafted Kisero, a HB, in the second round, and just signed Emil Gundersen from the Valanora NT as the WR1. Unlike Istria, they've got a competent defense, with some young NSCF players in the secondary, and OLB Kendrick Diaz as its anchor.

And then, of course- Rukunbi. The borough of Rukunbi is just a subsection of Istria- but with nearly 1.5 million, would be the 7th largest city in Banija if it were its own city. It has its own sports teams in all of Banija's sporting leagues- and these teams are all ass. The Wizards, though- they aren't waving the red flag. They are in a division with arguably Banija's two most popular teams, and they are looking to spoil the party. Felix Ström is the gunslinging QB- but they are aggressive elsewhere. An in-division trade to the Red Vultures for Lana Rhodes, their stud Chromatik HB, gives the offense balance. They drafted Kario Memphis, their WR1, out of Alexandria U- giving their Vanorian QB weapons. We're picking them to finish third, but the vibes are high- most of their local media earnestly believes they can win this division. The Wizards haven't won anything, basically ever- is this the year that finally changes?

Last, but not least, the Kosactus Red Vultures. Your best player, Lana Rhodes, just got traded to a division rival. Nantambu got extended and immediately fell off of a cliff- you're in QB hell. If you're a fan, just start reading draft guides now.

West Division
1. Sisonke Leopards(D)
2. Mar Sara Night Elves(X)
3. Dukuma Dragons(X)
4. Busembe Timberwolves

Blurb: The Leopards might just damn well be the odds-on favorites to win this whole thing. You've got the favorite for league MVP in Vallienté Wagner-Young as the team's starting QB. He's throwing to Essa Kayode and Angela Sauber as his top two WRs, as good as a WR duo as any in this league. And hell, they have Isaga Duhaga as their HB, meaning their skill position players just about blow every single team's skill position players in this league out of the water. And unlike the Black Mambas- they have a real defense. Despite all that going for them, they are not THAT large favorites to win this division(although they are a playoff lock), because...

The Mar Sara Night Elves have one hell of a squad of their own. Valanora's team, as some might call them- although their future might be murky with the launch of a professional gridiron league in Valanora. A black eye for an already embattled GFLB commissioner. Despite worries (probably sound) that fan support will drop because of that, they've got a hell of a team on the field. Criag Juniper is a NSCF MOP- he can wreck anybody. And with Gabriel Yafet, the league's best WR, as his WR1- well, another dangerous combo. They've got talent everywhere, on both sides of the ball, and are going to be a serious threat to deal with. What they might lack in home field advantage, they will certainly make up for in many other ways. Can they make a deep playoff run, and use that to secure their future in a city that suddenly has an abundance of pro gridiron options? They are built to do so- and winning the division would go a long way in making that happen.

The Dukuma Dragons look like a team that's likely to make a playoff push. They are anchored by their stud pass rusher, Ailo Børve- the Valanora national who went to NMU. One of the few defensive anchored teams in this league, they are elite at getting to the QB- and are pretty OK at everything else. Dexter Jacobson is one of those QBs who is a permanent inigma at the position- solid, yes, but not really spectacular. Can the Ranorian put them into the playoffs this year? We shall see.

As for the Timberwolves, well- another rebuilding team. They've got a young rookie QB, Assan Jobe. They are pretty much using this year as a rebuilding year, focusing on developing for the future, opposed to competing in the now.

South Division
1. Hoima Zebra(D)
2. Mukeruzi Hyenas(X)
3. Busukuma Athletic Club
4. Busukuma Suns

Blurb: Usually, it's the two teams from the Banijan capitol that dominate this division. Two historic franchies, alway seem to be ahead of the game. But, a tide is turning- as there are big-time sea changes in Busukuma, it's the Ankole clubs that are here to take advantage. And the Hoima Zebra start the season as fairly strong favorites to win the division. A strange approach to handling the QB position- they had Anne-Maurice Vivayavich for two years, and sat her both years- patience that pro teams almost never have. Adida was solid for two years, and with the club legend finally retiring, it's A-MV's turn at QB. They've got her a solid, if aging, running back in Tamba Secka- a former Serpent Eagle. And Jannik Nadine is the WR1. Expect the Zebra to be flying around, as the new QB gives the whole town a jolt of energy. While starting two rookies at CB might almost certainly be a recipe for disaster, they might have enough elsewhere to overcome all of that.

Behind them, it's the Mukeruzi Hyenas. And while the Zebra are ahead of them, it isn't by that much- Emilee Johansson's squad can play. The KCU grad is certainly underrated- she was excellent in college in her NSCF days, and has had a solid, if not spectacular, career at the helm for Mukeruzi. But things finally seem to be aligning for her. They've fallen gotten her a real WR1- with Kasozi Batte, who is a literal Olympic gold medalist track star(200m), ready to burn and destroy CBs all across this league. If you're a betting man, obviously the favorites for MVP are Wagner-Young, and then Odika- but are either of the Chromatik QBs in this division a dark horse?

As for the Busukuma squads- well, they've each had better days. We all remember when both of those teams were flying high, looking to play in a Simba Bowl in their home city. But now- both are further than ever. Young QBs, no real studs on either team to be really excited about- although Busukuma AC has Karl Sande as a NT, both of their offenses are poor at the skill positions. Times have certainly been better in the nation's capitol.

Central Division
1. Igulu Bush Elephants(D)
2. Lwanga Rhinos(X)
3. Umbazi Metropolitan SC(X)
4. Isipongo Wild Boars

Blurb: The Igulu Bush Elephants are coached by Richard Steinheil- and the old Ranorian has this team in full form. If you asked the question of 'what would happen if you had a RFL team, and you put them in the GFLB, what would happen', the Bush Elephants are the answer to your question.

Nobody's heard of their QB. But unlike every other title contender in this league, they don't give a damn. They have put a stunning 9 players on the Banijan NT- and even more surprisingly, they have done entirely on defense and special teams. The kicker, and a shocking 8/11 starters are on the Banijan NT defense. Unsurprisingly, then, this team is built around its defense- the O almost an after-thought. Far and away the best D in the league, this might be the best defense that we've seen in this league in decades. They will have to carry the team. Two years ago, they drafted Darrell "The Ball" Jackson to be the starting HB. A barreling HB to help their ball control offense, Steinheil is striving for that balance so he can win the Simba Bowl. Is this the year?

Behind them, although not by much- the Lwanga Rhinos. Built with more balance than the Bush Elephants- and around an elite, if aging, QB. Ebou Hairte started one World Bowl for the NT, and went 16-1, blitzing everybody and their mother before falling to the eventual champion, Drawkland, in the semifinals. Hairte is a guy who feels as if he's been disrespected his whole life- nobody ever talked about him as the heir as the best QB in the league, with Wagner-Young likely better than him, and now Odika. That drives him- can he power his team forward to the Simba Bowl? With Rachel Emerson as one of the league's best wideouts as his WR1, and Alice Conti as the WR2, he's got plenty of options in how to spread the wealth. They've got balance, too, with a particularly nasty front 7. They are a team built to make a run- we wouldn't be surprised if they made one.

Umbazi could make a playoff appearance- although they are not elite at the skill positions, they are good in the trenches on both sides of the ball- and when half the league makes the playoffs, that's probably enough. The Wild Boars, on the other hand.. At least they have Drew Lia? We wouldn't be surprised if he got traded mid-season, as they clearly have to be looking towards the future.

East Division
1. Duntho Oilers(D)
2. Bwubanza Ostriches(X)
3. Bunyoro RSC
4. St. Jakob Honey Badgers

It's hard to say what's going to happen here. This division might be the most wide open- the teams seem pretty damn evenly matched. The biggest story out of this division might be the move of the Port Stovine Sea Turtles to Duntho.

When Sea Turtles ownership in NWK sold the team to Banijan owners (OOC Note: NWK CTE'd), and they announced that the team was going to move back to Banija, there were a number of cities trying to line up to get this team. Who knows when the next expansion will be- this might be the last opportunity for a city to get a GFLB team for some time. Hawabark, the largest city in the country without a GFLB team, was thought to be the favorite. But lots of strong bids. Duntho, of course. A second team in Jinja City- with 3.3 million people inside the city limits alone, and the anchor city of Banija's second largest region, it's probably indeed capable of supporting two teams. Even some outlandish ideas were thrown around- Lakiska getting a team, for a second on the Busoga Islands. The team going to Farfadillis, or even Baker Park? Or hell, even the Esportivan Territories in Njaza.

But ultimately, the Oilers were picked. Public funding for a stadium, yes. A cool name- who doesn't like the Oilers? And the growth of the city. While Jinja City is the 'brain' of the oil revolution in Banija, Duntho is at its beating heart- the city has seen rapid growth since the discovery of oil. In far northeastern Banija, yes, kind of isolated, yes- but it's Duntho's time to hit the big time. Now easily the biggest sports team in the city, expect rabid fan support.

As for on the field? Anything can happen. All the teams, like we said, are decent. The Ostriches do have Diamond Rhine- but it's more like Rock Rhine, since he's basically a shell of himself. Doesn't look anything like his Cold Hill self. A cautionary tale- he's on the final season of what remains the largest contract given to any athlete in Banijan sporting history, and he hasn't come close to living up to it. He can probably make the playoffs- but anything beyond the quarterfinals would be stunning.

OOC Note: Yes I didn't predict the first two rounds of the playoffs, skipping ahead to the SFs...

Semifinals Prediction
Sisonke Leopards over the Hoima Zebra
Herzegovina City Cobras over the Istria Black Mambas

Simba Bowl Prediction
Sisonke Leopards over the Herzegovina City Cobras

[HUElavia]

HUElavia 33–0 Aurevbush
(10-0, 10-0, 10-0, 3-0)
Bethelm Arena, Bethelm, Drawkland

All Cylinders!

HUElavia dominate debutants Aurevbush in a fantastic shutout!

After the strong start to the World Bowl with the 19-0 shutout over Katzeburg, HUElavia looked forward to another debutant in Aurevbush. Playing in their home field in Drawkland, Bethelm Arena, the stadium was sold out with a vast majority of HUElavians present in the stadium to make it feel like a home game at Curumba. Feeling confident and good after the first game, Los Amarillos/Os Amarelos came out with their Home Uniforms with a stadium draped in yellow (with some blue and white jerseys), while Aurevbush had their fans towards their endzone.

If one can best describe how the game went, it was methodical domination. HUElavia opened the scoring within the first three minutes, when Duarte Lobo sent a deep pass from their own 42 yard line for a wide open Nazário who cruised into the endzone for the Touchdown, making it 7-0. While HUElavia did get a 3-and-out, they also would not allow Aurevbush to get much going, except for a few runs from Dalo Hernandez who got close to field goal but sacks from Obama and LeBeau would take them out for a punt. Late in the 1st quarter, a 45 yard field goal was taken by Schultz, who easily put it through the uprights to make it 10-0. While Aurevbush did start to attack more, they eventually did march down the field only to get intercepted at the endzone by Tassi for a touchback, giving a large roar from the crowd for the play. HUElavia subsequently marched down the field and got a good run from Uche for the Touchdown, making it 17-0. Towards the end of the half, HUElavia continued with their march and to end the half, Schultz made a simple 28 yard field goal to make it 20-0 at the half.

The second half was more of the same, with HUElavia still being methodical with their plays and just eating the clock down as much as they can. Schultz got a 34 yard field goal early in the 3rd quarter to make it 23-0. Plays would be attempted, but the HUElavian defense would still stand strong as the quarter marched along. Late in the quarter, with 1:23 left, Duarte Lobo sent a pass to Obie, who beat a tackle from Lopez to power into the endzone Touchdown, making it 30-0, essentially icing the game before the 4th quarter came. During the 4th quarter, HUElavia brought out the backups, giving them minues, with Uchechy getting passes in and some runs from Sato would eat up the clock. With 5:42 remaining, Schultz kicked a 43 yard field goal to make it 33-0. At that point, it was just easy three-and-outs and eventually HUElavia kneeled the game over to take the emphatic victory.

For the next match, Sarzonia awaits the team in what will be the first true test of the team. Fans will be out in droves for what is one of the promising games of the Divisional Stage of the World Bowl. Here's to what can be a historic match and upset.

FORCA HUELAVIA! VAMOS HUELAVIA! GO HUELAVIA!

[Chromatika]

THE CHROMATIKA IRON LEGION
World Bowl 49 - MD2: Langenia 13–17 Chromatika

Anne-Maurice Vivayavich took a deep breath.

It had been a much tougher game than advertised against Langenia. The plan from the beginning, Anne-Maurice had taken this start as Gwenderyn was resting from an offseason shoulder bruise that still brought her some pain. It had started off well enough - the opening drive had ended on a five-yard throw to Tight End Niles Gwivern - but since then, they'd just managed a Field Goal. It wasn't that Langenia was playing well, it was that the iron Legion was shooting themselves in the foot. A missed throw here. A penalty there. A muffed punt that allowed Langenia with their first Touchdown of the game. To their credit, the defense was doing the job with two Field Goals - it was AMV and the Offense that was struggling.

With nine minutes left in the Fourth Quarter, the crowd at Hellenmack Stadium was nervous. Could the Unranked Langenia pull this off? It would be up to AMV to put and end to it before things got too crazy. Gwenderyn hadn't even dressed, and Pantoja was an emergency backup, after all.

A Lana Rhodes run for six yards started the drive from the Iron Legion thirty-one. Next play, Vivayavich looked off a rushing Defensive End and found Ulrich Jefferson in the flat for fourteen yards. Then, Alessandra Mio, the legendary Wide Receiver, jogged to Anne-Maurice in the huddle.

"He's doing it again," Alessandra said, "He's going to jump the route."

AMV nodded, and audibled to the Stop-and-Go that Alessandra was well-known for. Hell, she had made a living off of that.

Roberto Mina was very representative of how Langenia played gridiron - all risk, sometimes reward. If there was one golden rule when facing Chromatika, it was to not jump a route when Alessandra Mio was running it.

Sure enough, Mina jumped the route. Alessandra's route was crisp - the stop, and the go - and the throw was perfect.

Sixty-four yards. Touchdown. Game over.

AMV finally relaxed. She had no doubt the defense would do the rest.

---

Chromatik Gridiron League - Matchdays One and Two

Matchday 1

Rainbow Triad 7–15 Qet Lynx

Recap: Kicker Mary Wallach kicked five Field Goals to pace the Qet Lynx as they welcomed the Rainbow Triad to the Chromatik Gridiron League on the first game of the new season. Though Camille Meer found Tobias Gyart in the corner of the end zone on the first drive of the Triad's existence to take a 7-0 lead, that would be the only points the Triad scored all game long as Meer was hounded all day by Defensive End Eddie Ryun and the Lynx's defensive line. In his first start, Anderson Joseph, Jr. didn't have to do much as Steve Ashwater had 115 yards on the day; they just couldn't score any touchdowns. The Triad did show some fight, but with a total of 259 yards gained all game long, it was a rude welcome to Chromatik Gridiron.

Chromia Cyan 38–21 Tihon Tridents

Recap: Jesse Jackson picked up where he left off, going 21-of-27 for 318 yards and four touchdowns (two of them to Edan Newall) as the Cyan outlasted the Tridents' upset bid with a solid offensive performance. Give Tihon a lot of credit - Nicholas Motte played well for two and a half Quarters - but they ran out of gas. Samuel Jack did well in pass protection as the Tridents actually were only down three in the middle of the Third, but then, by Jackson's fourth passing Touchdown to Nami Jung and Justin Marinos forcing a fumble, the game went out of hand. So, both new teams lost - but they made some noise.

Myana Waveriders 22–24 Heartland Harvesters

Recap: A classic between the two newcomers in the National Division, as the Harvesters score the game-winning touchdown as time expires to get the win. Patrick Friar, the new Quarterback for Heartland, was able to find Lena Jax on a slant for that deciding score. Myana's leading player was Quarterback Xan Jones, the unheralded draft pick from lowly Sanar University. Jones, with the best offensive line he's ever had in front of him, had three touchdowns on the day - including a cheeky two-point conversion that had helped the team take the lead after the first drive. Not the best of games, but an entertaining one that showed the two teams know how to play.

Knetyohai Icebreakers 19–0 Staramara Angels

Recap: The biggest upset of the young season, the Icebreakers - led by stalwart Linebacker Kyle Ed - shut out the favorite Angels, forcing three turnovers that were turned to thirteen points. Ed had fifteen tackles and two forced fumbles as Gyles Munaloff didn't have to do much for the Icebreakers. Quarterback Harold Mikkelana only had to go 13-of-15 for 161 yards due to the stout defense. For Staramara and new Quarterback Melina Harsh, it was a day to forget.

Matchday 2

Qet Lynx 29–14 Tihon Tridents

Recap: A three-touchdown day from Steve Ashwater was what the Lynx needed as they buried the Tridents, doubling them plus some for a 29-14 victory. Samuel Jack was the best player for the Tridents with over 100 yards, but the Trident couldn't protect Nicholas Motte, giving up six sacks and fifteen Quarterback hits on the day. When will Tihon get their elusive first win?

Rainbow Triad 7–13 Chromia Cyan

Recap: In a day where he struggled, Jesse Jackson found Even Mirlai in the flat for a game-winning score in the Fourth Quarter as Chromia escaped the Rainbow District with a six-point win. Ilya Gorgon had the Triad ready to play, hounding Jackson all day long - but Jackson, the wily veteran, was able to overcome things late. Rainbow looks a lot better than Tihon, and one of them will win on Matchday 3.

Heartland Harvesters 8–16 Staramara Angels

Recap: Running for 213 yards, the Angels returned to their style of play as they dominated the game against the Harvesters. Yes, the final score said 8-16, but given Heartland scored that Touchdown in the last minute, it wasn't close. Melina Harsh went 14-of-19 for 131 yards on the win, but it was Trayvon Mixon, the Running Back, that paced them.

Myana Waveriders 3–7 Knetyohai Icebreakers

Recap: For the second game in a row, Kneytohai's defense came to play. Mikkelana didn't do much, but he didn't have to do much. Knetyohai allowed all of 161 yards for Myana - including 1 of 10 on third downs. Is Knetyohai's defense the best in the league?

National Division          Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
1 Chromia Cyan               2   2  0   51  28 +23
  Qet Lynx                   2   2  0   44  21 +23
3 Rainbow Triad              2   0  2   14  28 −14
4 Tihon Tridents             2   0  2   35  67 −32
Chromatik Division         Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
1 Knetyohai Icebreakers      2   2  0   26   3 +23
2 Staramara Angels           2   1  1   16  27 −11
3 Heartland Harvesters       2   1  1   32  38  −6
4 Myana Waveriders           2   0  2   25  31  −6

[Katzeburg]

"Gentleman, a brief view of the past..."
A history of Gridiron in Katzeburg, Part III

Part I | Part II | Part III

The Aberstadt derby is the oldest rivalry in Katzeburgian gridiron, stretching back a historic three years, and marks the first ever competitive game of gridiron played between two universities in Katzeburg. Given the game would be played under Rathbone’s Rules, the first clash was held at the University of Aberstadt, with the team working in the days before the game to clear a large landing just to the south of the university campus to play the game on. This field, while large enough to hold the game and provide space for spectators and onlookers to view the game, was unfortunately slightly slanted - meaning sides playing from left to right as you view the pitch from the campus side would need to go slightly uphill to reach the endzone - a slight advantage with UoA would play to by requesting to play right to left.

Interest was surprisingly high for the first game between the two universities - despite it being a new sport and with no real gauge on how interesting the clash would be - promotion was pushed by the many fraternities on both campuses as a way to get together and drink copious amounts of alcohol instead. This led to a huge three day event taking over the UoA campus ahead of the game, with more than 5,000 students across both campuses descending on Seecester, overwhelming the campus which was very much not prepared for that many students focused in one area. As students descended on the campus, media interest picked up on the upcoming game, leading to national broadcaster KBC dedicating time to go and film the game with a view of broadcasting it across the state in place of the regular Saturday afternoon Snoozefest programme.

The three-day festival also lead to the first ever contesting of the Drinker Cup - a clash between teams of UoA and ASU students in a drinking contest, which was won by the ASU team on a drink-back count but led to a yearly tradition forming between the two colleges - with the cup contested each year before the UoA/ASU clash.

Finally, gameday arrived, and the field - hapdashedly given the name of ‘Cester Field’ to allow broadcasters to have some colour commentary about the field itself - saw a huge crowd of 4,387 descend on it ready to see a historic game of football. With the new amendments made to Rathbone’s Rules allowing more flowing play, the crowd were treated to a verifiable thrill of a match, with UoA wide receiver Johnny Doherty scoring the first ever competitive points four minutes into the first quarter, picking off a pass from quarterback Ford Throwitt and sprinting up the sideline to complete a 26 yard play with a touchdown. ASU would struggle in the opening quarter as the side got used to the sport itself and the hillside they were forced to push up to progress the ball, but the side would notch their first points in the dying seconds of the first quarter through a 37-yard field goal from kicker Chris Scott.

ASU would take the lead midway through the second quarter after a fumble in the UoA half allowed linebacker Bill Wall to scoop the ball up and push over into the endzone. Neither side would find points again in the opening half, with ASU leading 10-7 at the break. However, the second half is where play would open up a little, as both sides started to feel the fatigue brought on by the long nature of the game and the copious amounts of beer drank in the previous days. This came to a head in the final two minutes of the third quarter, as both sides needed to stop play for a moment due to consistent hungover-induced chundering on both sides - an image now preserved in history thanks to a painting by ASU art student George Painter entitled The Big Hurl - which proudly hangs in the head office of ASU’s athletic’s department.

However, the pause in play would benefit UoA, who managed to regroup and tie the scores on the stroke of three-quarter-time with a field goal from 39 yards out by kicker Robert Booter. Set up for a tense final quarter, neither side would manage to get close to either endzone for the bulk of the final stretch of play, with strong defensive showings from both sides minimizing yard gains.

With only a short amount of time left on the clock, Throwitt decided to do something drastic to give UoA a chance of getting into field goal range. Bringing the squad together for a huddle, Throwitt revealed his plan to a rush of giggles amongst the squad. Lining back up on the scrimmage line and snapping the ball back to Throwitt, a loud cry of “Walls Up!” was heard by onlookers as the UoA squad circled around Throwitt to provide a team shield to the quarterback. Amidst confused looks by the ASU team, the circle pushed forward, allowing Throwitt to casually walk up the field with the ball in hand while the defense desperately tried to push through the circle to get to the ballcarrier. But the side would have no luck - despite Wall breaching the circle by aiming directly for the legs of the smallest player in the circle, it was a little too late as Throwitt crossed the line to score a touchdown and secure victory.

UoA students celebrated as ASU students immediately descended on the umpires to complain about the controversial play - arguing it was unfair and ran against the spirit of the game, to which their protest were waved away, with umpire Buck Tucker overheard saying “There ain’t no rule that says a team can form a circle around a ballcarrier and walk up the field.” Rumors abounded as to whether Coach Rathbone - the creator of the sport - knew this and suggested it to Throwitt in case the side needed it, but when this was put to him by KBC after the game, he denied knowing about the play or the fact it was technically legal.

But the damage was done - UoA had won 17-10 and secured victory in the first game of gridiron in Katzeburg - setting off a fierce rivalry in the process.

---

PANIC ERUPTS AS KATZEBURG SCORES FIRST POINTS

By Richard Rider

Katzeburgian supporters in Drawkland were left in abject terror and horror after the side fell to a 24-7 defeat to Ranoria in the second game of their World Bowl campaign.

The reason? The side dared to commit the absolute atrocity of scoring a touchdown against an opposing side, the kind of disgusting play Katzeburgians had been keen to see removed from the sport entirely. The crime happened midway through the game’s third quarter, after Ranoria had built up a comfortable 17-0 lead, with quarterback Rain Sams opting to throw the ball to wide receiver Storm Chester out on the right hand side of the field. Chester would then commit two atrocities - firstly catching the ball, before running the 24 yards needed to get over the endzone line and score the first ever national points for Katzeburg.

“It’s absolutely sickening what happened during that game - it has no place in modern football,” said Katzeburg supporter Ryan Grant after the game.

“Where was the kicking? Throwing the ball seems counterproductive and to actually score a touchdown? It makes me sick to my stomach to see.”

Immediate complaints were made by traveling supporters to the UoA Athletic Department for daring to teach their students the dark arts of passing, with an injunction filed against the university by one pioneering legal student to stop passing being taught going forward.

The touchdown would cut Ranoria’s lead to 10 points, but the side would pick up another touchdown in the final quarter to run out 24-7 winners, leaving Katzeburg second from the bottom in their division after two games.

[New Umoja]

Big Cat Rumble! Mountain Lions Best Tigers

The United States has been assigned the smallest stadium in the competition as ‘home’ for the duration of the World Bowl: not even a true football arena, the angular construction normally plays host to baseball. Still, New Umojans are used to being given second class status, and fans have flocked to Waylook determined to make their impact felt wherever they end up playing. Black, red and green packs the stands and streams from the banner hoists, while before the home opener, against Vaishnavaria, the She-Lions cheer squad, the Djembe Corps of the People’s Liberation Army Academy, sets from DJ Sankofa, Nubian Vibe, and SoulRebel, and a cast of big names from the world of politics (Vice President Saadiq Muhammed, Governor Malik Jefferson, and Secretary Janelle Williams), sports (NUFL Hall of Famer Zephan Waters, current All-NUFL receiver JaTaveon Stone, and legendary UCFB coach Réquan Bridges), and entertainment (musicians Damarko Foster, Thando Mngomezulu, and Coniqua Muhammad, actor Ka'ron Caldwell and actress Mckayla Marshall, and comedian Jevonne Woodard) hyped up the crowd, which stretched every last one of the temporary seating sections to full capacity, culminating in raucous renditions of the unofficial national team fight song Mandla eLizwe. The benedictions were led by the Reverend Dr. Elijah Simmons, Minister Tariq Shabazz, and Baba Kwame Ogunleye, before a rendition of the national anthem, Black Star Banner, by pop singer Madison Schroeder. The baying crowd were at a frenzy as Mountain Lions captain Keantay Sutton won the toss and opted to receive the kickoff.

Madison Schroeder sang the national anthem before the game

And after all that razzmatazz, the first quarter… did not live up to the hype. Santrell Wilkins immediately went three-and-out, and Sunny Sharma liked the look of that so much he decided to do the same. Both teams traded more threes-and-out; Jacaubré Marshall, enjoying some serious hang time on his punts, possibly helped by Sonnel having a slightly different gravity than Umhlaba, was having fun. Everyone else, not so much. When Wilkins hit Jekeil Bridges on a slant for an 18 yard gain, it was the biggest gain of the quarter, and even that led to another set of downs that just ground into nothing. It was inevitable that it took a punt to break things open, as Rasaun Gregory jarred the ball loose from returner Alan Solo and smothered the fumble to finally put the Mountain Lions into the Tigers’ half. Wilkins still couldn’t come up with anything, but it gave Ashkira Fisher a chance to finally put some points on board with a 38 yard field goal. Another quick defensive stop followed, but on the ensuing drive Wilkins, still showing signs of rust in his relationship with Sutton, fumbled the snap, which Brandon Bolls fell on. The defense held but the Tigers were within chip shot range for the field goal.

The second quarter showed a little more intensity. This tournament is the first time the Mountain Lions have played together competitively, and the first game with new offensive coordinator Kamugelo Reeves; there’s clearly room for improvement. The game plan was very conservative, with little room for Wilkins to show off what is in theory a pretty powerful arm; he threw only one pass longer than 20 yards, and the team went to the run again and again despite Chamaun Burgess having little luck in punching through. It took another turnover to spark the first score, as strong safety Arkell Owens jumped a pass to Nathan West and ran it back 40 yards. Burgess nearly got over the line on a run up the gut, and Reeves brought in Mlamuleli Mwelase for the power run. Instead Wilkins faked the hand-off, Mwelase wheeled right, and caught the pass for the first touchdown at the World Bowl for New Umoja. Sharma, not enjoying his best day, kept things together for a smart two minute drill, heavily favoring tight end Ashwin Agarwal, and the Tigers, out of timeouts, hurried with 5 seconds left to kick a 58 yard field goal which snuck over the bar.

Sakeem Freeman puts in a big hit on Owen Cross

The Mountain Lions came out for the second half needing to find some rhythm. Vaishnavaria received but it was another quick three-and-out as the pass defense held strong, and Wilkins showed renewed calm under center, leading a nearly 7 minute drive down the field, largely through the efforts of Burgess and Mwelase on the ground, only to stall on the 4. With Mwelase finding his feet and the lead already more than a field goal, a less conservative coach than Edwards might have been tempted to go for it on fourth down, but he waved on Fisher, who dinked over the chip shot. The Tigers replied with a field goal of their own, helped downfield by a couple of dumb penalties from the defense when another easy stop was within grasp, and Fisher returned the lead to 7 as a holding penalty on Char’quez Knox called back a shot to the end zone that would have seen Kincade Kelley reel in his first touchdown.

The stadium held its breath entering the fourth quarter, the Mountain Lions up 7, the Tigers with the ball. A sack by Marteese Lawrence wiped out any progress Sharma had made and the Tigers had to punt away, again, putting the ball back in Wilkins’ hands. Helped by a 14 yard catch from Jasen Small, a 14 yard rush from Mwelase, and a 28 yard defensive interference penalty on Jacob Bradley, he drove the Mountain Lions into the red zone. Burgess had a 7 yard rush stopped just at the line after a little discussion from the officials, but his next one burst through behind Small, blocking at fullback, and Aquintis Bradford, pulling from left guard. There was still plenty of time on the clock, but needing two scores, Vaishnavaria began throwing long, but found only the hands of Kaiman Battle Jr., who ran it back to halfway before sensibly jumping out of bounds. From there, Wilkins was able to grind out the clock and kick off the celebrations in the stadium.

Injury report:

RB Dashonte Vaughn – Foot – Out
TE Sharquay Cummings – Knee – Probable
DE Somondre Hampton – Back – Doubtful
OLB Rontay Jordan – Groin – Out
SS Jamyron Butler – Hamstring – Out
H Bailey Harvey – Illness – Questionable

Santrell Wilkins, 16-of-26 for 186 yards with a touchdown and two turnovers, will hope to have better days, and there was no real offensive standout: Chaumaun Burgess rushed for 65 yards and a touchdown, Kincade Kelley caught 5 catches for 75 yards. The offense needs more time to get used to playing together and adapt to the interesting demands of international football. Defensive captain Arkell Owens can be proud, though, as his unit gave up only 3 field goals and holding Vaishnavaria to under 300 total yards of offense, with 3 sacks, 2 picks, and a forced fumble recovery, while Ashkira Fisher held her nerve to make all three of her kicks. Tougher tests lie ahead, though, as the Mountain Lions leave the unranked part of their schedule and begin their run through a murderers’ row that includes former World Bowl champions and world #1 ranked sides. Next up is a trip to Brammel to play South Americanastan, in another test of their ability to adapt to playing the kind of option offenses rarely seen outside the service academies. Starting linebacker Rontay Jordan is listed out with a groin injury.

[United States of Nova Calania]

Nova Calania wins over Valanora

Sadg, Drawkland - On matchday 2, the United States of Nova Calania received one of the most established nation in the sports universe, Valanora, in their new home of Sadeg, and pulled the upset by winning 36-24. Nova Calania won the coin toss and choose to receive the ball first. The Tapirs scored on their first drive when, on a 2nd and goal at the 7 yards line, fullback Ming Ze Mao caught Arielle Bellerose-Deslongchamps's pass at the 4 yards line and ran to the endzone for a touchdown. Valanora tied the game 4 minutes later when Emil Gundersen caught Håkon Schau's 18 yards pass in the endzone. Nova Calania answered with a 34 yards field goal by Ji-yoo Han and the score was 10-7 Nova Calania after 1 quarter. Early in the 2nd quarter, Valanora is stopped and Edvard Söderberg punts the ball. Anne-Élisabeth Guirguis catches it and returns the ball to the 38 yards line in Sabres territory. On a 3rd and 7 at the 35 yards line, Arielle Bellerose-Deslongchamps throws a screen pass to Guillaume Bibeau-Babeux who catches the ball and runs all the way to the endzone. Valanora cut Nova Calania's lead midway in the 2nd quarter when Alexander Østby scored a 4 yards rushing touchdown. Nova Calania increased their lead when Ji-yoo Han made a 24 yards field goal within the two minutes warning and the score at halftime was 20-14 Nova Calania.

Valanora started off the 3rd quarter with a 14 yards passing touchdown from Håkon Schau to Nikolas Isaksen and took the lead by one point. Nova Calania made a 41 yards field goal and Valanora answered with a 38 yards field goal. The score after 3 quarter is 24-23 Valanora. Midway in the 4th quarter, Arielle Bellerose-Deslongchamps passes into the endzone to Zachary Tourangeau for a 26 yards passing tochdown. Nova Calania goes for 2 points, but Arielle Bellerose-Deslongchamps' pass to Rachel Lavigueur is batted down on the conversion play and Nova Calania leads 29-24. With only 2 minutes remaining, Valanora has the ball at the 44 yards line in their own zone and Håkon Schau's pass intended to Max Strömberg is intercepted. Anne-Gaëlle Bourguignon runs all the way to the endzone for the pick six and the final score is 36-24. Nova Calania beat Valanora!

With this unexpected win against one of the best nation in the world, the Tapirs have a win and a loss and are tied with 6 other teams in group north. Chromatika and Drawkland are the only two teams in the group with 2 wins. On matchday 3, Nova Calania will travel to Drawk City to play against Chromatika. Kyle Wintermeyer is doubtfull with an ankle injury, Rachel Lavigueur is questionnable and Gunnar Schnackenberg is probable.

VALANORA       7   7  10   0  -  24
NOVA CALANIA  10  10   3  13  -  36

GAME SUMMARY

1st quarter
9:54 TOUCHDOWN NOVA CALANIA - Arielle Bellerose-Deslongchamps passes to Ming Ze Mao for 7 yards - Extra point good
5:38 TOUCHDOWN VALANORA - Håkon Schau passes to Emil Gundersen for 18 yards - Extra point good
2:24 FIELD GOAL NOVA CALANIA - Ji-yoo Han's 34 yards kick is good

2nd quarter
13:33 TOUCHDOWN NOVA CALANIA - Arielle Bellerose-Deslongchamps passes to Guillaume Bibeau-Babeux for 35 yards - Extra point good
8:48 TOUCHDOWN VALANORA - Alexander Østby runs for 4 yards. Extra point good
0:31 FIELD GOAL NOVA CALANIA - Ji-yoo Han's 24 yards kick is good

3rd quarter
10:39 TOUCHDOWN VALANORA - Håkon Schau passes to Nikolas Isaksen for 14 yards - Extra point good
7:20 FIELD GOAL NOVA CALANIA - Ji-yoo Han's 41 yards kick is good
4:36 FIELD GOAL VALANORA - Fredrik Mundal's 38 yards kick is good

4th quarter
7:56 TOUCHDOWN NOVA CALANIA - Arielle Bellerose-Deslongchamps passes to Zachary Tourangeau for 26 yards - Two points conversion missed
2:27 TOUCHDOWN NOVA CALANIA - 62 yards interception return by Anne-Gaëlle Bourguignon - Extra point good

Jean-Alexandre Guindon

[Abanhfleft]

When Kelly Profit had been first approached by representatives of the Pridnestrovian Gridiron Super League in an attempt to entice her and a number of other high-profile Fleftic players to play in the new league, the representatives had painted a bright and optimistic picture of the situation. Pridnestrovia had just made it into the playoffs of the World Bowl for only their second appearance in the competition, only being knocked out by an equally fast-rising Drawkland Grid Corps team. The PGSL, an idea reportedly ten years in the making by the time Kelly had been invited to Pridnestrovia, had finally been approved and cleared for play after the recent success of the Red Army on the field, and the league’s commissioner had firmly believed that acquiring the services of even just a handful of Fleftic stars would go a long way towards firmly establishing the PGSL as a proper competition in the eyes of his fellow Pridnestrovians. After all, it was Abanhfleft that had introduced gridiron football to Pridnestrovia as part of the diplomatic warming between the two nations, and if the Fleftics believed in the PGSL then surely the Pridnestrovian people would as well.

All of that said, the PGSL certainly made one of the choices of all time when they decided to recruit Kelly Profit to play in their league. Kelly was a rarity in that she was a female gridiron player in a game that was predominantly male-oriented. Female gridiron players like her were most certainly not unheard of, even in Abanhfleft where sports were more segregated along gender lines than the rest of the multiverse would have liked, although there was definitely an exploitative air in which the old Bikini League was presented. For one, the name alone should show why exactly a lot of people considered it exploitative. The women playing in the Bikini League were scantily clad, with color-coded athletic bras and shorts being the only attire that they wore for the seven or so seasons that the league was in operation (including the time when it was renamed to the less suggestive Ladies’ Football League. Yes, they did have protection in the form of helmets and shoulder and shin pads, but at the end of the day it was clear to see that this particular league was more about showing off the players’ “physical assets” rather than anything connected to actually playing the game. That was the game of women’s gridiron that Kelly Profit had seen growing up, and that was the one big stereotype of the women’s gridiron player that she wanted to shatter.

Then again, Kelly never really thought that she was going to become a gridiron player in the first place. Sure, her family had some history with the game, and her cousin Harrison Aumann was a great quarterback in both the college and pro levels. But she had never really been interested in playing the game itself until she was convinced by a couple of friends to try out for the local community college team since their coach needed a replacement for dear old Cousin Harrison. Despite all that, she discovered that she was actually surprisingly good at this whole gridiron thing, and with the rest of the college’s quarterbacks not being up to their coach’s shockingly high standards (but who could really blame him considering he had just had four years of Harrison Aumann in his team?), and Kelly became the new starting QB for Thereisnogodistan Community College. That in itself, while definitely noteworthy and maybe even newsworthy, shouldn’t really have come as much of a surprise. Community colleges didn’t have the resources to recruit players like the bigger and more well-known colleges and universities throughout the country, meaning female gridiron players can and did turn out for these smaller schools. But TCC wasn’t just any regular community college stuck somewhere in Abanhfleft’s latest colony-slash-province. Thereisnogodistan Community College was, at the time at least, a member of the NSCF, an international college football system contested by schools all throughout the multiverse. This meant that Kelly Profit had just gotten the starting quarterback job at perhaps the second most visible Fleftic college in the whole multiverse.

Kelly Profit’s legacy with TCC was somewhat complicated, to say the least. The numbers that she put up in the five years that she had been with the program were comparable to her cousin Harrison Aumann’s output during his own time with the Atheists. But TCC had never won their conference, although they did make the playoffs a couple of times (getting knocked out in the first round both times), and they did win a bowl game as well. Some would even argue that Kelly’s numbers were even more astonishing considering that she put up similar numbers to Aumann while being in an almost constant state of injury. That was the one major disadvantage that a female gridiron player had in this male-dominated game; she was always going to be more susceptible to bone and muscle injuries mostly because her playstyle would be similar to the boys, but also because she would sometimes take hits that would flatten even a bigger male quarterback. And because the TCC head coach had no faith in his quarterback room, he would keep playing Kelly despite all of the knocks and bumps, resulting in the Atheists suffering an inevitable decline further into the season, meaning that the team was never really able to capitalize on being in a playoff spot. Despite her injury woes though, Kelly still managed to lead TCC to victory over Innusburg University at the Snakeskin Wars Memorial Bowl in Frenline Delpha, even if the game itself was a close affair and the Atheists came close to blowing their lead a number of times.

The good times, what little there was for Kelly and TCC, had to come to an end though, and it ended once Kelly graduated from the college with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Kelly hadn’t really been looking forward to her graduation, if only because she knew that that meant that her college football was also coming to an end. And the prospects for a female gridiron player in Abanhfleft were unfortunately slim: it was either the Bikini League or bust. And Kelly did not want anything at all to do with the Bikini League. Admittedly, there was a faint and distant hope that there was a team somewhere else in the multiverse that could use a quarterback fresh out of an NSCF school, but at that point in her life, Kelly had no intention at all of leaving her home country. Heck, she didn’t even want to leave the Fhulghamous Peninsula, which further limited her already slim prospects of a good post-collegiate career. In all honesty, all Kelly had to look forward to at the end of her collegiate athletic career was getting into the backroom staff of a team. And one such spot had opened up for her, back in TCC of all places. All Kelly had to do was say yes and she would have a good job in a familiar environment.

And then the Pridnestrovian Gridiron Super League came knocking.

When the PGSL had made their approach for Kelly to play in their league, their pitch involved the fact that gridiron football was the sport with the fastest rising popularity throughout all of Pridnestrovia. The Pridnestrovian people were absolutely chuffed that their national team had proven that they could hang it with the best that the multiverse had to offer, and now it was time to bring that skill and spectacle back to the people. Yes, it was all well and good that Pridnestrovians were making names for themselves in the Fleftic National League of American Football, but wouldn’t it be much better if they played in a league made by Pridnestrovians for Pridnestrovians? As to why the league itself was approaching Fleftic players, the answer was simple: much as gridiron was growing in popularity in Pridnestrovia, there still weren’t enough local players all over the country for a ten-team league with 52 roster spots for each team, even if the league dropped all standards and allowed any old comrade to turn out for their local team. Like it or not, the fact of the matter was that the PGSL was going to need some foreign stars to boost its image even further. And with Abanhfleft being the biggest nation with steady diplomatic and economic links with Pridnestrovia, it made sense for the PGSL to try to attract what free agents they could to come play in their new league.

“Why are you going after me, though?” Kelly would eventually ask once the PGSL head honchos had finished their pitch. “Look, I know that as a socialist country, Pridnestrovia is bigger on equality than other countries, but your sports are still divided between the men and the women. You’re not seriously considering letting men and women play together in your league, are you?”

The league’s commissioner, a thin sharply dressed man named Anastasiy Kornilenko, took a deep breath and sighed. It was apparent that he wasn’t prepared to tackle this particular topic, or at least that was what Kelly had thought and believed at the moment. “I will be honest with you, Miss Profit,” he replied carefully after a few moments. “Even if the PGSL were to sign literally every free agent available from the FNLAF, we would still come up short when it comes to our rosters. Our government is already reluctant enough to allow the coming influx of Fleftics into our borders as a result of the league, and they’ve decided that the line will be drawn against countries that are not part of the APOC Coalition. That means that Drawks, Ko-orenites, Alpines, Taeshanis and the like are not available for us to approach and sign, which leaves us with only one other pool of players from which we can take our pick.”

“The women,” Kelly said, and Kornilenko nodded in confirmation.

“Our own sports scientists are convinced that this is not a good idea,” Kornilenko admitted. “The differences between the male and female bodies has proven that there are some things for which the male form is much better suited, and one of those things is gridiron. We do not know why the rest of the multiverse insists on allowing men and women to play together in this particular sport, and yet they have found a way to make it work. Or maybe they are merely hiding all of the injuries being suffered by their womenfolk. Who knows? But what we do know is that without female players on our roster, we will not have enough players to begin play this year. And we wish to strike while the iron is hot, so to speak. We wish to begin play when our national team’s triumph is still fresh in the minds of our people, as we believe that is what will give the Gridiron Super League the best chance of establishing itself.”

At the time, Kelly had actually believed that Kornilenko had been reluctant to divulge all of that information to her in the course of the PGSL’s recruiting process. However, in hindsight she realized that she had actually been played like a fiddle by the wily commissioner. That facade of reluctant openness had been perfectly calculated to lure her in like the light on the head of an anglerfish. By acting like his league wouldn’t have enough players to begin play within the year, Kornilenko had sold Kelly on the idea that by agreeing to play for this new league, she could find herself on the vanguard of establishing gridiron as a viable sport and competition to an entire nation. It certainly beat being on the staff of a small community college with an equally small athletics program. And it most certainly beat having to play in booty shorts in front of an audience of horny edgy teenagers and sweaty neckbeards.

Kelly Profit would become one of the marquee signings of the Pridnestrovian Gridiron Super League in its inaugural season. She would sign with the Bratsk Dolphins, a team based in one of the smaller industrial cities of Pridnestrovia. Bratsk had never been the luckiest of cities, whether historically or in sports, so the people of the city took Kelly's arrival with at least a pinch of salt. Yes, the Dolphins had assembled a promising squad that could be capable of fighting for championships down the line, but the key word was could. After all, this was still the first time that this team would play a competitive snap, and everyone knew that this was also a squad assembled from those players who had been passed over or outright rejected by the big dogs. Sometimes rejection could serve as a potent motivator for an underdog squad like the Dolphins, but on the other hand there would be reasons why the big boys had rejected so-and-so and cut them from their squad. In any case, the people of Bratsk still stood behind their team through thick and thin, even if there were times when the Dolphins were obviously outclassed by their opponents and the results would reflect that gulf of class in between the competitors.

As for Kelly herself, the injury issues that had plagued her throughout her college career would continue dogging her throughout her time in Pridnestrovia. She had signed to the PGSL fully aware that there was a thousand percent chance that her injuries would recur almost as soon as she played her first snap in the league, and within six weeks she was already on the injured reserve list for hip pains that she picked up after a particularly brutal sack against the Yeralenko Torpedoes. Kelly would come back in Week Ten, but by that time Bratsk's chances of making the playoffs had slipped away, and the best that they could hope for was to be the best of the rest.

That would end up being the story of Kelly Profit's career in the Pridnestrovian Gridiron Super League. She would get off to a bright start that would have the fans believing that the Dolphins could actually make the playoffs and maybe even win the Pridnestrovian Bowl (the championship game of the PGSL whose name was obviously taken from the World Bowl itself), only for injuries to strike her down in the middle of the season. By the time that Kelly was ready to come back to the field, either Bratsk would have already been eliminated from contention for the playoffs, or they would have managed to sneak in as a lower seed, which unfortunately would put them up against a tough opponent like CSKA Tiraspol or Dinamo Bender or Admiral Novorossiysk. And while she might sometimes find a way to beat this caliber of team in the regular season, Kelly would simply draw blanks against the top teams come playoff time, resulting in yet another unceremonious ejection of Bratsk from the playoffs before the whole cycle repeats again. A prominent scientist or philosopher, definitely someone smarter than Kelly, once said that the definition of insanity was doing the same thing again and again and expecting a different result every time, and even she had to admit that was becoming the case in Bratsk. Something had to change about the way that she and the team did things, or else she and the Dolphins were never going to win any silverware in the foreseeable future.

It wouldn’t be until Kelly’s eighth season with Bratsk that that all-important change to the routine would finally happen, although at the time she didn’t really see it that way. The Dolphins had acquired a backup quarterback, Olaf Ivar Bjarnason, from Dinamo Bender to provide the team with another option should Kelly inevitably get sidelined again. Bratsk may have thought that they wouldn’t have to call upon Bjarnason until midway through the season, but then Kelly suffered a concussion after getting sacked in week two, throwing Bjarnason straight into the deep end. However, it was soon revealed that Bjarnason could actually swim, not just literally but also metaphorically as he led Bratsk to a stunning victory over Sheriff Tiraspol. Then he did the same thing against Admiral Novorossiysk, and Bratsk now knew that they had to keep faith with Bjarnason because he could very well do the thing that Kelly Profit couldn’t. But fate seemed to have a twisted sense of humor as Olaf Bjarnason would suffer a rib fracture after taking a brutal sack against Vladikrav Red Death in week thirteen, sidelining him in and around the same period that Kelly would usually get injured to derail Bratsk’s playoff campaign. Now it was Kelly’s job to save the campaign before it went any further off the rails.

Kelly may have thought that getting sidelined so early into the season would have killed Bratsk’s chances of making the playoffs before the season had even properly got going, but the combination of Olaf Bjarnason’s surprising rise from backup to star coupled with a fresh and rejuvenated Kelly coming back just in time for the run-in would turn out to be a welcome boost for the Dolphins. And while Bratsk would still finish in second place in the Southern Conference behind Admiral Novorossiysk, now they had their starting quarterback to lead them, and she had the fire and desire in her to finally see this team across the finish line. Bratsk easily took care of their third seed opponent Sheriff Tiraspol to set up a conference final clash against the Navy Team, and though that was a tough contest, Kelly and the Dolphins were eventually able to see off Novorossiysk by a score of 28-17. The Bratsk Dolphins had finally won the Southern Conference final, and now they had a chance to win the Pridnestrovian Bowl. Only one more team stood in their way, and it was none other than Dinamo Bender, the most successful team in the league.

Bratsk started off Pridnestrovian Bowl VIII as the more nervous team out of the two, a clear sign that they were not yet used to being in this situation before, and it showed in the number of missed tackles, dropped passes, and other such things that separated the good teams from the great ones. However, the Dolphins’ defense was much more up for it than their offense at the start, and the defense limited Dinamo to only two touchdowns and a field goal. Meanwhile, Kelly and the offense finally managed to get over their pre-championship game jitters and began operating like they did in the regular season, and by half-time they had brought themselves to within one possession of taking the lead. That hope would end up not lasting for very long however as Dinamo would put up two more touchdowns in the third quarter, and Bender’s defense would keep Kelly and the Dolphins off of the scoreboard in the third. The dreams and hopes of Bratsk winning the Pridnestrovian Bowl were slowly but surely beginning to fade away.

Once again, the Dolphins' defense stepped up, and if it weren't for these players giving it all in the fourth quarter, all that happened afterwards wouldn't have been possible. First, they held Dinamo Bender to only a field goal attempt at the start of the fourth quarter, and then they managed to block the kick and give the offense better field position for their first possession of the quarter. Bratsk was unfortunately only limited to a field goal as well, but then kick returner Camille Fielding, another female Fleftic player who wanted to get away from the oversexualized Ladies' Football League, slipped past the entirety of the Bender defense for a seventy-yard touchdown. And then, the moment that everyone believed to be the one that turned the entire game on its head: free safety Pylyp Stasiuk picked off the screen pass from Bender's quarterback and ran as fast as he could to cover the thirty yards between himself and the end zone. Now one interception would have been enough for any defensive player, but Stasiuk was just getting started. He was really, really determined for this game not to end in a Bratsk defeat, and with the kicking team having once again backed up Dinamo to within twelve yards of their own end zone, Stasiuk was in the mood for a second pick-six. He would get one-half of his wish; no defensive touchdown, but he did get the ball back to Bratsk on Bender's two-yard line. All well and good, of course, but the offense still had to punch the ball in. And that was a tough ask, especially against a Dinamo side determined to prove that they were still the best gridiron team in Pridnestrovia.

There was still a minute and a half to go when Stasiuk made his second pick of the Bowl final, and Dinamo still had all three timeouts left so kneeling wasn't an option just yet. And Bratsk's kicker was susceptible to getting iced so going for a field goal was out of the question as well. It was the end zone or bust for Kelly Profit and her offense. And for three downs the Dolphins tried and failed to break Dinamo's defenses, which held firm and stopped Bratsk only inches from the goal line. The one good thing about those three attempts though was that they made Bender use up all of their timeouts in an effort to see the game into overtime or maybe go for a Hail Mary should they regain possession. Now the Bratsk kicker couldn't be iced. The Dolphins had an opportunity to take and hold on to a three-point lead in the dying seconds of Pridnestrovian Bowl VIII. It seemed like the easy, no-brainer decision at the time. But Kelly Profit decided right then and there that she wanted to go for broke. Kelly lined up as the holder for the free kick, but once the ball was snapped into her hands she stood up and made a beeline for her own O-line. The Bender defense was quick to react to the fake kick play, but they weren't quick enough to stop Kelly from leaping over her own teammates and breaking the plane for the game-winning touchdown.

It was a historical game of football, not just for Bratsk but for all of the PGSL. Not only was it the Bratsk Dolphins' first time ever winning the Pridnestrovian Bowl, but it was the first time that Dinamo Bender had given up two interceptions in the fourth quarter of the final, the first time Bender had been held scoreless in the fourth quarter, and the first time any team all throughout the league had scored at least 24 points in the final fifteen minutes. Nobody thought that they could do it, but now here was Kelly Profit lifting that massive bowl-shaped trophy over her head. Finally, after all those years, the Bratsk Dolphins are the champions of Pridnestrovian gridiron, and Kelly had finally won her first piece of major silverware. The Pridnestrovian Gridiron Super League was well and truly on the up.

And then, only two years later, everything began to fall apart. Not just for Bratsk, but for the entirety of the league as well.

[The Kytler Peninsulae]

Sometimes, teams break out instantly, without warning; the Kytlerian Green Machine's run to the World Bowl 47 quarter-finals (and 9-1 group record the following cycle) mark them out as one of the great examples of that. Other teams - like the Kytlerian soccer team who toiled for multiple cycles before finding a way into an expanded World Cup 97 and promptly making the octofinals with stunning nullifications of Farfadillis and Chromatika en route - make later breakouts.

The Juvencus Brutes - even having lost their first two games - are showing all the hallmarks of a future breakout. Ranked 26th coming into this cycle, their strikingly youthful offense hung six touchdowns on TJUN-ia and were only defeated by a walk-off FG, and they flew out of the traps and into a 14-0 lead against the Green Machine courtesy of a pair of touchdowns by teenage receiver Filippo Crema; despite being young enough that he would be eligible for Di Bradini Cups plural if he played the roundball game, he has now scored four touchdowns in five quarters of World Bowl play, all against top-10 opposition. To say he's one to watch would be an understatement, and the prospect of an upset looked very real indeed.

There was no panic, though. 52 minutes of play remained and there would surely be more defensive lapses from this hyper-aggressive team - who were starting a 17-year-old in Arnaldo Pagani at safety - to allow the Green Machine to drown out the bad taste of the Travis Taylor fumble that set the Brutes up at midfield for their second score. And so it proved, Taylor himself completing a 13-play drive with a 12-yard touchdown just before the end of the first quarter before Martijn van der Sar got back to his cattle excrement with the first play of the second stanza, picking off a pass that Samir Miraflores Israel telegraphed for his wonderkid top target Crema and taking it 46 yards to the house. Just like that, the lead had been erased, and while the Brutes did manage to drive the ball again on their next possession they were held back by a fine goal-line stand, Ragnar Snorisson twice stopping Silvio 'Ndraghetta from crossing the plane. The resultant chip-shot FG would put the Brutes back in possession of the lead, but it would be their last; a 41-yard catch-and-run score from Heath Ilford that featured him trucking Pagani so brutally one would be tempted to stick a child abuse label on the film. Remember, Pagani is not yet 18.

21-17 is how the half would end, and the Green Machine simply slowed the game to their preferred pace in the second half, with each team only managing three drives in it and the Brutes clocking just 6:50 in possession - 2:45 of which came on the drive that opened the second half, which ended in a 51-yard FG that was matched with a 48-yarder from Dafydd Nevins when the Green Machine got the ball back. Ilford's second bludgeoning score - this one 26 yards in his trademark fashion of getting wide open on play action by simply pancaking a far smaller DB as the handoff is faked - came early in the fourth quarter to cap a drive that took 8:31 off the clock, and after a fourth-and-5 fake punt from just outside FG range was stuffed by Hallbjörn Ölvirsson, the Green Machine simply devoured the remaining 6:29 of game time to secure their 30-20 win.

"We really nailed that ball control in the second half, we just got caught cold a bit in the first," acknowledged head coach Michael Simpson. "But it's two wins out of two and also two games with good action points, it feels like we're getting really hyped out of the gate which is obviously great but we do need that control right from the start, we gave up back-to-back scores last game in the first half and it happened again here, but once we slow the game down I don't think there's many teams that can live with us and we just need to be able to trust we can do that for 60 minutes."

Crucially, the Green Machine are getting RPD supplies. Was that a concern with the political backdrop and the problems the Olympians faced in getting their supplies? "Of course we worried, but our team went through all the testing and we were fine. If it was Varnians who did it to the Olympic team, well they're not going to mess with the gridiron team because they see them as their team, it's still mostly Varnian players on this team, they're not gonna go after their brothers in their sport." The urge to reference other sports will not be abated with the next match, their first away from their Cyclestream Stadium base, as they travel to the Salt-Dust Stadium in Cemmendy to face Kamijiro. That would be the Kamijiro that the soccer team beat away from home to secure their first World Cup berth. The stakes are lower here, and the expectations far higher against a seemingly ragtag bunch of young two-way players in a country where gridiron holds niche appeal at best - except that label has already been staggeringly defied, as they have won both their games to date including a stunning 16-12 defeat of TJUN-ia. (A quirk of this scheduling algorithm - not that it is an unfamiliar one, indeed almost all sports across the multiverse are understood to use it - is that teams are consistently playing the Jags and then the Green Machine in succession and in that order. So Kytlerian fans might want to watch the highlights of those Jags games...)

"They remind us of us, the first time around," acknowledged Wecoisus Mocks - the QB of that team that famously beat Chromatika in their first game and Saint Kanye in that snowy octofinal with that ending - in his injury-enforced role as pundit here. "Solid defense, run-heavy offense, and they just refuse to lose and destroy complacency at every opportunity. This is going to be a big game and a big test."

[South Newlandia]

victoria.bigtukson

12m

I didn’t even pay to watch this game, and I still want a refund #WB49 #TerSnl

esportivan.gridball

7m

Regions with most teams at 2-0: T-1 Esportiva (2), Anaia (2)
Kamijiro cooking, and Katzeburg looking like a sneaky contender despite being 0-2. Also - Jags!
#WB49 #UpTheOrange

robert.stein7

2m

Can’t wait for the classic matchup coming up between Pachyderms and Dragonflies #WB49 #SnlKor #FeistyElephants

[TJUN-ia]

After starting off with a bang, people were expecting the Jaguars of TJUN-ia to press forward from that tight win over Juvencus and try and assert why we are #2 in the rankings...but that did not happen at all at our 'home' opener at the Stad-Stallion in Raikennax.

Instead, our date with the 12 players of Kamijiro ended in one of the most embarrassing results in our history. Facing a team of 12 players, most of whom play on both sides of the ball, should've been quite simple - these valiant warriors will tire out eventually and after that, we would take the initiative - but things are never simple, are they? We scored 12 points in this contests, with Leon Gallas rushing two TDs into the endzone, but Xander Tiovannen had both PAT attempts blocked by Marie LaFrentz. That allowed plenty of time for Alex Daniels to pull of his magic, finding Elyndra Laeoris and Callie Marix for a TD and 2PC each to complete the shock 16-12 result. We played a Team of 12 and lost. Ouch.

---

SCHEDULE (South Division) - based at Stad-Stallion, Raikennax
MD1: vs Juvencus (23) - Callcom Stadium, Masteser W 44-41 (5th/1-0)
MD2: vs Kamijiro (UR) - Stad-Stallion, Raikennax L 12-16 (1-1)
MD3: vs Vaishnavaria (UR) - The AnvoDome, Yokare
MD4: vs South Americanastan (15) - Stad-Stallion, Raikennax
MD5: vs Banija (6) - Waxton City Dome, Waxton
MD6: vs Lisander (24) - Stad-Stallion, Raikennax
MD7: vs New Umoja (UR) - Ferris-Deltore Stadium, Waylook
MD8: vs Abanhfleft (12) - Sector 6 Stadium, Corinth City
MD9: vs The Kytler Peninsulae (9) - Stad-Stallion, Raikennax

[Langenia]

Noticias: Deportes Langenia Plays Back-And-Forth Game Against Chromatika In what will probably be remembered as one of the most interesting, tense, and back-and-forth games of the Langenian World Bowl campaign, Los Azules would suffer a 13-17 home loss to 5th-ranked Chromatika. Head coach Aaron Barrios noted that the game was even greater learning experience for the Langenian national gridiron team by giving experience playing the best teams in the world to a team new to international gridiron. Chromatika would open up the scoring by pushing the Langenians into the red zone for tight end Niles Gwivern to haul in a five-yard throw from quarterback Anne-Maurice Vivayavich for a touchdown. Initially, the Langenian offense would get off on the wrong foot as their opening drive unceremoniously ended with linebacker Mi-Hyeon Park intercepting a 10-yard throw from Los Azules quarterback Angel Murillo. Chromatika would capitalize on the opportunity, with their offense increasing their lead with a 42-yard field goal from Dwayne Markseon. From this point, the game would take an interesting turn as Langenia would mount a comeback to overcome the ten-point deficit and briefly take the lead, leaving themselves so close to achieving a major upset over one of the top gridiron teams in the world. Not immediately eager to risk a drive to the red zone after the previous interception, Langenia would opt to score their first points of the game with a 45-yard field goal from Sergio Cruz. The Chromatikan offense would then take the field, for whatever reasons, they suddenly seemed to fare worse against the Langenian defense. On the opening play, Chromatikan quarterback Vivayavich would be sacked by Langenian linebacker Raul Davalos, and Los Azules would repeatedly force the Iron Legion to three or four downs simply to advance multiple times. Suddenly struggling in front of a seemingly improved Langenian defense, Chromatika would opt to punt the ball, setting the stage for the most exciting play of the Langenian World Bowl campaign so far. Los Azules return specialist Mateo Molina would evade tackles to make a 90-yard punt return for the only Langenian touchdown of the game, tying the scores at 10-10. The Langenian offense would take advantage of the change in momentum by going for another Sergio Cruz field goal, this time from 49 yards, to give themselves a three-point lead. With the ball back in possession of the Chromatikan offense, the Iron Legion would make the last drive of the game in an efficient fashion with the undercurrent of concern at the possibility of an upset by unranked Langenia over one of the top teams in the world. Unfortunately for Los Azules, with victory tantalizingly within reach, they would again be unlucky as Chromatika would win the game off wide receiver Alessandro Mio evading Langenian cornerback Roberto Mina to catch Vivayavich's 64-yard pass and bring it into the Langenian end zone for a game-winning touchdown. Reflecting on the close 13-17 defeat at the postgame press conference, head coach Aaron Barrios observed "Even though Chromatika is one of the best teams in international gridiron, this was definitely a winnable game for us given the mistakes they made earlier, such as giving us that punt return that allowed a touchdown. However, errors were made on our part that allowed that final touchdown at the end, specifically opting for a field goal instead of a drive for another touchdown to gain a bigger lead, not to mention allowing Alessandro Mio to make that catch and evade tackles for that final touchdown. Nonetheless, it's been a hell of a learning experience with a gold mine of information for us to learn how to better compete with these top teams." Los Azules will play 25th-ranked Crpostan away on Match Day 3.

[Kamijiro]

Gridiron of Kamijiro, Part Two: Trick Play Magic & Huge Upset

Well, going up against the #2-ranked team in any competition is never an easy task. Especially one as accomplished as TJUN-ia. And then, going down two scores early? Well, that should be a recipe for absolute disaster. Even if Marie LaFrentz did block two(!) extra point attempts, being down 12-0 at the start of the fourth against a much stronger team should mean game over.

During the break between quarters, starting quarterback Alex Daniels took his team aside and explained a new game plan. They were going to need to throw the ball. Although the quadruple option offense had made a bit of headway, the lack of points on the board and the little time left meant risks needed to be taken. And so, the passing wrinkle of the quadruple option offense was born.

Play diagrammed using PlayArtPro.com

The first time running the play instantly blew a hole in the Jags defense. After stacking the box every play and sending the safeties in as extra linebackers to combat the run, nobody saw Elyndra Laeoris sneaking through the pulling offensive line and running a classic corner route. Nobody except Alex Daniels, who ran a bootleg out to the side and threw a wobbly pass downfield, past everybody. Except Elyndra, who had nothing but green grass in front of her. Touchdown. A two-point conversion was also good, Laeoris finding the seam on a regular quadruple option - bringing the score to 12-8.

The defense held firm once more and the Kamijiroans had the ball back. They ran the regular play a few more times, alternating directions. The clock was winding down and Daniels called the pass play once more, this time to the other side. And it worked again! Callie Marix had nothing but space in front of her, though she was nearly caught by Jessica Farron from behind. The two-point conversion afterwards was successful once more, with Marix finding the seam to complete the team's double octopus. (An octopus is a player scoring a touchdown and then converting the two-point conversion, something the Kamijiroans had happen twice.)

One last defensive stop and then Alex Daniels was able to kneel the remaining clock off - Kamijiro had done the impossible! Now, can they keep doing it? Next up is The Kytler Peninsulae. A very familiar opponent, though not in this sport. Go Kamijiro!

[Sarzonia]

"At least we scored."

Ty'Relle Clinton is not often given to defeatist language, especially on a team that won the previous World Bowl. But after a match where Ko-oren defeated the Sarzonian national gridball team 16-13, it was impossible for him to not be in his feelings.

Sarzonia weren't able to get anything going through the air as Cameron Stallworth completed just 10 passes in 23 attempts for 117 yards. He threw two interceptions and was sacked four times for 33 yards, resulting in 84 net passing yards. Manager Tyler Paige and offensive coordinator Trent Beaucamp turned to Clinton, giving him the rock 31 times for 138 yards and the team's only touchdown.

Matt Andersen scored the only other points for the Stars, who dropped to 1-1 despite field goals from 37 and 48 yards. The No. 3 Dragonflies defence stiffened late, ensuring that they would not have a repeat of the 50-burger Terefuxe dropped on them in their opener.

"We were moving the ball on them good between the 20s," Clinton said. "The line opened up some decent holes for me until we reached the red zone."

Sarzonia struggled in goalline situations despite employed jumbo and heavy jumbo sets, using 13 or 14 personnel groupings. The line also struggled in pass protection with the sacks and Stallworth being pressured on roughly two thirds of his dropbacks. He ran five times for 17 yards.

"It felt like they were playing 15 on 11," Stallworth said of the Ko-orenite defence. "They played much better against us than the did against Terefuxe."

Paige wasn't surprised that the Ko-orenites were aggressive in attacking the Sarzonian offensive team, saying that the team as a whole needed to do a better job of being less one-dimensional.

"We couldn't get Cam going in the passing game," Paige said. "He had trouble getting time to throw and getting balls out too hot when he didn't have guys draped all over him." Clinton dropped a screen pass when defensive end Howard Manwald came barreling in on Stallworth.

"Part of [the pressure Manwald, who sacked Stallworth twice applied on the screen] was the plays design," Beaucamp said. "You draw it up in the hopes of getting an opening for the receiver to get some yards. It didn't work out for us tonight."

"I needed to do better on that," Clinton said. "I'm supposed to catch the ball in that situation." He shook his head when asked if he looked downfield before he caught the pass.

"Naw, man, I saw the ball all the way. Cam put it in the right spot. I just dropped it."

Centre Rodney Tucker said the offensive line would have to play better against 14th ranked HUElavia in Sarzonia's de facto home debut.

"We kept Cam upright and open some holes big enough for me to run through," in the opener against unranked Aurevbush. Against Ko-oren, the third ranked Stars weren't nearly as effective.

Tucker said he would meet with offensive line coach George Cowley and discuss potential adjustments he and the rest of the line could make in blocking assignments. However, he said his main concern was sustaining blocks and not missing assignments.

"We're a good line," he said. "We needed to account a lot better for ourselves."

Paige declined comment on the growing controversy surrounding host nation Drawkland's decision to host the entire World Bowl in its borders.

"That's a distraction," he said. "It's above my pay grade."

[Drawkland]

WORLD BOWL 49
XLIX - MD3

Time for "Week" 3!

Drawkland has ensured that relatively inexpensive ticket packages and travel vouchers have been made available for foreign fans. Did a large amount of fans make the trip to Drawkland to cheer on your national team? Have they added signs or banners to their temporary home stadium to make it more familiar? Does your fanbase have any chants they use during games, or perhaps a pep band along for the ride? Answering these questions is not required nor will it provide additional bonus, just some food for thought.

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North Division

Delaclava 27–45 Quebec and Shingoryeo
Natkr 14–50 Drawkland
Valanora 17–14 New Rotterdam City
Chromatika 6–0 Nova Calania
Crpostran 0–3 Langenia

 # North Division        Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Drawkland               3   3  0   98  43 +55
 2 Chromatika              3   3  0   67  16 +51
 3 Quebec and Shingoryeo   3   2  1   73  52 +21
 4 Valanora                3   2  1   64  63  +1
 5 Delaclava               3   1  2   75 103 −28
 6 New Rotterdam City      3   1  2   66  64  +2
 7 Natkr                   3   1  2   56 101 −45
 8 Nova Calania            3   1  2   63  59  +4
 9 Langenia                3   1  2   29  40 −11
10 Crpostran               3   0  3   10  60 −50

East Division

South Newlandia 7–30 Ko-oren
Cardenao 27–24 Terefuxe
Katzeburg 38–13 Kinqueven
Aurevbush 0–21 Ranoria
Sarzonia 13–10 HUElavia

 # East Division         Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Cardenao                3   3  0   68  44 +24
 2 Ko-oren                 3   2  1   72  74  −2
 3 Sarzonia                3   2  1   62  43 +19
 4 HUElavia                3   2  1   62  13 +49
 5 Ranoria                 3   2  1   58  27 +31
 6 South Newlandia         3   2  1   27  33  −6
 7 Terefuxe                3   1  2   78  60 +18
 8 Katzeburg               3   1  2   45  56 −11
 9 Kinqueven               3   0  3   23  72 −49
10 Aurevbush               3   0  3   17  90 −73

South Division

Juvencus 41–23 Abanhfleft
Kamijiro 7–31 The Kytler Peninsulae
Vaishnavaria 17–23 TJUN-ia
South Americanastan 23–17 New Umoja
Banija 44–15 Lisander

 # South Division        Pld   W  L   PF  PA  PD 
 1 Banija                  3   3  0  115  56 +59
 2 The Kytler Peninsulae   3   3  0  103  52 +51
 3 Kamijiro                3   2  1   36  43  −7
 4 South Americanastan     3   2  1   68  61  +7
 5 TJUN-ia                 3   2  1   79  74  +5
 6 Juvencus                3   1  2  102  97  +5
 7 New Umoja               3   1  2   40  45  −5
 8 Lisander                3   1  2   38  88 −50
 9 Vaishnavaria            3   0  3   46  69 −23
10 Abanhfleft              3   0  3   68 110 −42

[Crpostran]

---

Crpostranian Gridrion Federation[/align]

---

National Information
Nation: The Karmic Republic of Crpostran
Region: Karma
Trigramme: CRN
Demonym: Crpostranian
Capital City: Crpostown
Official Language: Crpostranian, English
Currency: Crpostranian Florin (Cƒ)
Population: ≈ 802 million
National Anthem: Säkkijärven Crpostrani
Time Zone: UTC+9
Internet TLD: .cr
National Animal: The Crpostranian Eagle
National Rugby Governing Body: Crpostranian Rugby Federation (CRF)

Team Staff

General Manager:     Jacques Lefebvre
Head Coach:          Philippe Dubois
Assistant Coach 1:   Laurent Martin
Assistant Coach 2:   François Dupont
Trainer:             Sébastien Lambert
Assistant Trainer:   Nicolas Moreau
Doctor 1:            Mathieu Tremblay
Doctor 2:            Antoine Bergeron
Physiotherapist 1:   Gabriel Gagnon
Physiotherapist 2:   Jean-Paul Leclerc
Physiotherapist 3:   Pierre Lavoie

Offense


Name                Age      Position
-------------------------------------
Jean-Luc Dupont     27       Quarterback (QB)
Michel Dubois       25       Running Back (RB)
Pierre Leclerc      28       Fullback (FB)
Antoine Martin      24       Wide Receiver (WR)
Luc Moreau          26       Tight End (TE)
Étienne Tremblay    29       Center (C)
Maxime Lefebvre     28       Left Guard (LG)
Louis Bernard       27       Right Guard (RG)
Philippe Girard     26       Left Tackle (LT)
François Laurent    25       Right Tackle (RT)

Defense

Name                Age      Position
-------------------------------------
Mathieu Dubois      30       Nose Tackle (NT)
Alexandre Martin    29       Defensive Tackle (DT)
Nicolas Lefevre     28       Defensive End (DE)
Sébastien Leroux    27       Middle Linebacker (MLB)
Vincent Robert      26       Outside Linebacker (OLB)
Guillaume Morel     25       Cornerback (CB)
Romain Petit        24       Cornerback (CB)
David Lambert       23       Free Safety (FS)
Thomas Dubois       22       Strong Safety (SS)

Special Teams

Name                Age      Position
-------------------------------------
Éric Boucher        27       Kicker (K)
Jean-Pierre Dubois  26       Punter (P)
Paul Martin         25       Long Snapper (LS)
Franck Lefevre      24       Holder (H)
Antoine Laurent     23       Kick Returner (KR)
Olivier Dupont      22       Punt Returner (PR)

My opponent, if they RP first, may do the following:
Choose my Scorers: Yes
Choose Lineup: No
Choose Scoring Events: Yes
Godmod Scoring Events: Yes
RP Game Events: Yes (if they're funny)
RP Injuries to my Players: No
Godmod Injuries to my Players: No
Godmod Other Events: Yes, but do consult with me, either on TGs or on Discord (username: e_w_)

OOC: Apologies for the late submission, didn't find time in the middle of my exams to handle 3 events at once.

[South Newlandia]

victoria.bigtukson

14m

Kind of remarkable that despite punting about eighty times every game, Alicia Woodbrough hasn’t made any silly blunders yet #WB49 #Jinx

fantikos.thomas

6m

I told you, these Snow Bears still eat people. They woke up after a long winter and are now hungy (and need to feed the young) #WB49 #GoKrauts

robert.stein7

3m

Told my kids that I remember a time when the Elephants would play feistily against the Dragonflies and actually do damage, and they threatened to put me in a home. I’m only 42!! #WB49 #SnlKor #FeistyElephants

[The Kytler Peninsulae]

The Green Machine's clash with Kamijiro could have been an absolute banana skin; the TJUN-ia Jags certainly found it one. On the other hand, there may be no top team better prepared to face these upstarts - because not only has the Kytlerian (re-)emergence in this sport come out of nowhere in no time at all, it's come with the same option-heavy playstyle as Kamijiro, and for the same reason of a relatively modest player pool. Kytlerian gridiron is slowly stepping out of that shell - illustrated by how Dirk Djikstra actually attempted 19 passes in this game, many of them involving actual air yards - but ultimately this is a team that rely heavily on the same combination of off-meta style and surprise factor as the Kytlerian WB47 team, the majority of whom are still on this roster and weren't getting fooled by their own tricks.

The 31-7 score wasn't even as close as that looked; Kamijiro's one score came via a kickoff return touchdown (special teams coverage seems to be one actual weak spot for the Green Machine, as this is not the first such score they've allowed), and after a fourth offensive touchdown midway through the third quarter there seemed to be no intention of even exerting any effort to score, simply to maintain possession and keep their defense rested. This is not something Kamijiro could have pulled off even if they wanted to, for the simple reason that their offense is their defense - this team is comically undermanned (heck, with it being a gender-integrated team it doesn't even have 11 men), and if there was a desire to put 100 up on them, they might well have pulled it off.

"We basically know how they operate and had more energy to do the same thing, sometimes it's that simple," said head coach Michael Simpson. "They're going to be a more consistent danger in a few years, I promise you. You can already see they have talented players, they just quite simply don't have nearly enough of them." Or, as Wecoisus Mocks even more pithily put it in the KBT half-time analysis, "they'd make one heck of a Babbageball team," referring to the mixed-gender non-contact code originating in The Babbage Islands that is now perhaps more familiar to Kytlerians (all of whom are introduced to it in school) than literally anyone else.

Some have expressed genuine concern over the Kamijiro team and their total lack of depth, noting that they could be a couple of injuries away from literally not having a full team. However, the recovery powers of RPDs are well-established - Kytlerians of a certain age might recall the old Tour of Darmen and its infamous long mountain stages that were effectively rendered possible by this - and one has to assume until proven otherwise that when they get knocked down, they'll get back up again. But for now, the Green Machine and the fans that coined that name for them can savour the joy of a tubthumping performance. Two more opponents are left before the blockbuster against Banija, who are now the only other team in this South Division with a flawless record. While both will surely be all but through to the knockout stages by then, it'll still be an opportunity to lay down a marker ahead of the playoffs, and theoretically - though, as the Green Machine proved last cycle, not necessarily in practice - create an easier path through them.

Dijkstra admitted he's already looking forward to it. "We've got two games left now before the big one, and I know everyone says not to look ahead and I know I've got tape to watch on the next two opponents, but if you can't get excited for games like that one, what the hell are you doing playing this sport? Or even watching it?"