MOST VALUABLE PLAYER
#2 Long
The MVP Award goes to the player whose play contributed the most to the teams overall success. From start to finish #2 Long was the anchor of the Predators offense. Scoring 9 TDs and leading the team in receptions, #2 Long had a solid session. Week after week he came to play and left his mark. He made catches jumping, diving, running and falling, keeping Predator drives alive all session. He was also very effective defensively. His size and quickness continually aggravated offenses. Time and time again he was deflecting away passes, making it very difficult for opposing quarterbacks. He accounted for 5 interceptions and was one of the best pullers on the team. He was injured in the first playoff game and gutted it out to help the Predators beat Seed Men 7-0. The outcome may not of gone the Predators way if he wouldn't of played. He is a great teammate and will do whatever is needed of him to better the team. It was difficult to choose his best performances of the session because there were so many. In week 3 against Robinson #2 Long had two outstanding TDs and one interception. In week 6 against Evolution, he made a awesome and long TD catch in the back of the end zone from #45 Price and also pulled in a interception. Also in week 8 against Seed Men he made a nice catch from #7 Brown, made defenders miss and strolled into the end zone. In nine of 10 games this session #2 Long had either an interception or a TD and multiple times had both. All session long #2 Long was a constant for the Predators and they are very pleased to have him back next session. Congratulations #2 Long on your outstanding MVP session.
PREDATOR AWARD
#27 Clapper
The Predator Award goes to the player whose versatility as a player most contributes to the teams overall success. It can be through leadership, input to help the team, and on the field play. To management #27 Clapper stands for all those things. #27 Clapper played every role for the Predators this session. He played every position except for LB and C. He even rushed for the Predators this session. The Predators wouldn't of gotten where they were this session without him. In week 4 when #50 Price went down for the session. #27 Clapper stepped right into the defensive play caller role and did an even a better job. He always stayed the course with the Predators Red D. #50 Price at times went to man in questionable situations. #27 Clapper also had many ideas to help the team and took on the role of team scout. His input gave the Predators an edge before every game. Against Martindale in week 5 his two interceptions kept the Predators in the game for a while, but the offense played so poorly that the game spiraled out of control. In week 6 he scored two TD's against Evolution, breaking defenders ankles on the way. He scored 4 TD's in the second half of the session and was there when the Predators needed him most. Time and time again #27 Clapper left many players in his dust leading the Predators in yards after catch. Defensively he also pulled in 5 interceptions and made quick, accurate pulls the entire session. #27 Clapper will not be back next session and he will be sorely missed. He leaves the team leading the Predators in Playoff TD's. Congratulations #27 Clapper on winning the Predator Award.
MOST OUTSTANDING DEFENDER
#52 Oberhaus
The Most Outstanding Defender Award goes to the player whose play defensively contributed the most to the teams overall success. #52 Oberhaus was the only Predator to start at the same position on defense every week. He anchored a solid defense from the LB position. Week after week #52 Oberhaus made flag pull after flag pull on route to winning this award. He didn't win this award because he made every pull either, because he missed many. It is nearly impossible to make every pull in a whole session. He won this award because of his consistency week to week and his big play capabilities. #52 Oberhaus was the primary reason for all three of the Predators defensive TD's this session. In week 2 against State Farm #52 Oberhaus intercepted two passes, made a couple moves and lateraled both of them to #7 Brown who took them in for scores. In week 9 against Gunners he head butted a guy with his chin just to get the turnover and he then took it in for the score. It was an outstanding play. He recorded five interceptions on the season. Another time #52 Oberhaus set himself apart was in week 6 against Evolution. Evolution took the snap and quickly pitched it to their speedster. #52 Oberhaus closed quickly as the player raced toward the sideline. #52 Oberhaus jumped and snagged the flag before the player got out of the end zone recording a safety. #52 Oberhaus had a solid session from start to finish and congratulations to #52 Oberhaus on winning the Most Outstanding Defender award.
MOST IMPROVED PLAYER
#7 Brown
The Most Improved Player goes to the player who improved the most since the previous session. In the expansion session we all know the Predators had it rough not winning one regular session game. #7 Brown was the "lucky" one to lead the offense through that stretch. He started the first eight games and as the losses started to pile up so did the Predators frustrations. #45 Price came in and threw 3 TD's in the Toilet Bowl and led the Predators to their first win. Coming into this session #45 Price got the nod to start and played well at the start of the session getting the Predators off to a 3-0 start. But things happened on and off the field and in week 6 the Predators needed a jump start offensively. #7 Brown came into the game and threw two TD's leading the Predators to victory against Evolution. He also moved the offense well in a 12-0 win against Seed Men in week 8 when the Predators needed a win to clinch a playoff berth. He threw both TD's in the game. He accounted for 7 passing TD's on the year. He contributes much of his success at quarterback this session due to him starting at CB. He noticed some things that gave him a better idea of what to do at quarterback. Also, his pulling ability sky rocketed at the end of the session. Early on he seemed to almost tackled a guy or two but got himself under control at sessions end and had a great defensive performance making pull after pull against Seed Men in the playoffs. Congratulations to #7 Brown for winning the Most Improved Player.
THE PREDATORS
Monday, November 30, 2009
Session Review
The Predators lost their semi-final game to the Gunners 0-35. The Predators did what they could but where worn down over the course of the game by the Gunners speed, quickness and efficient quarterback play. Defensively they played well at times but missed a few pulls and the Gunners speed got away from them and in turn resulted in big plays. Offensively the Predators struggled. They moved the ball at times, but were unable to convert 3rd and 4th down opportunities. They dropped a few passes and made a few errant throws and against the defending champs those things just can't be done. The Predators are proud of how far they got this session but the injury bug that has chased them since the franchise began finally caught up with them in the semi-finals.
The Predators finished the session in fourth place with a 6-5 record. Much better than their expansion session when they finished 1-9. The Predators are pleased with the progress they've made in their second session and celebrated it appropriately at Bru Baker's Pub, but the Predators are already thinking about what's next. With many injuries and players leaving the squad, the Predators maybe short handed during session 3. Definite returnees for session 3 include #1 Clark, #2 Long, #7 Brown, and #52 Oberhaus. The remaining five Predators will all be out for session 3. #27 Clapper is packing his bags and moving south for a while to get away from all the flashing cameras and paparazzi that comes with Predator football. #42 Clapper is still hungry to play but the knee injury he suffered is very serious and his future with the team is uncertain. #45 Price will be unavailable to play next session due to off the field issues, but plans on returning for session 4. #53 Wlotzko will also be out for session 3 because as he puts it, "I don't want to play that indoor shit!" And finally #50 Price, team captain and organizer will still be out recovering from knee surgery. It has been a slow, draining recovery so far and some have heard whispers that #50 Price is contemplating retirement. What will the Predators do then you ask? Well, the Predators must and will go on. Even with all the injuries and heartbreak the Predators have gone through in their first two sessions. It has brought them closer as a group. Some didn't really know each other when they started. Hell, some didn't really even like each other. But there is a mutual respect between the group and it is evident when you watch the Predators play. Sure, some of the Predators are better at the game then others, but that's not what being a Predators is all about. It's the fact that you show up and give your best and do your job on the field to the best of your ability. It's about getting out of the house for a few hours, cracking on the Browns and maybe bitching about your wife or job. Being a Predator has created an excitement and anticipation for sports again that hasn't been there since the teenage years. It makes you feel young again even if for only an hour. You forget your problems and have fun and yell at refs and opponents. At one point of the session someone from another team said "These guys really miss high school!" That comment has stuck in my head and irritated me ever since because seriously, who doesn't miss high school? Especially high school sports. It was so fun, not to mention you had zero worries or bill's to pay. This has been a great session and a lot of fun following the Predators. The session definitely had its ups and downs but all in all, was a big success. The Predators stuck together and never turned on each other and found themselves one game away from the title. The final score of the game shows the Predators how much farther they have to go because those top teams aren't going anywhere and the Predators are yet to be linked in that category.
The Predators had a very productive session. They built on the previous session and improved, but it came with some costs. It was easy to improve on their first session because honestly, it couldn't of gotten much worse. Now they are at a point where it will be harder to go forward. 4th place is a respectable finish but the Predators want more than that. The vision is winning the title and the Predators will go on until one of the session champion photos on the Pinnacle wall says Predators. Stay tuned because in January the Predators will reunite again and will be heading indoors for session 3.
The Predators finished the session in fourth place with a 6-5 record. Much better than their expansion session when they finished 1-9. The Predators are pleased with the progress they've made in their second session and celebrated it appropriately at Bru Baker's Pub, but the Predators are already thinking about what's next. With many injuries and players leaving the squad, the Predators maybe short handed during session 3. Definite returnees for session 3 include #1 Clark, #2 Long, #7 Brown, and #52 Oberhaus. The remaining five Predators will all be out for session 3. #27 Clapper is packing his bags and moving south for a while to get away from all the flashing cameras and paparazzi that comes with Predator football. #42 Clapper is still hungry to play but the knee injury he suffered is very serious and his future with the team is uncertain. #45 Price will be unavailable to play next session due to off the field issues, but plans on returning for session 4. #53 Wlotzko will also be out for session 3 because as he puts it, "I don't want to play that indoor shit!" And finally #50 Price, team captain and organizer will still be out recovering from knee surgery. It has been a slow, draining recovery so far and some have heard whispers that #50 Price is contemplating retirement. What will the Predators do then you ask? Well, the Predators must and will go on. Even with all the injuries and heartbreak the Predators have gone through in their first two sessions. It has brought them closer as a group. Some didn't really know each other when they started. Hell, some didn't really even like each other. But there is a mutual respect between the group and it is evident when you watch the Predators play. Sure, some of the Predators are better at the game then others, but that's not what being a Predators is all about. It's the fact that you show up and give your best and do your job on the field to the best of your ability. It's about getting out of the house for a few hours, cracking on the Browns and maybe bitching about your wife or job. Being a Predator has created an excitement and anticipation for sports again that hasn't been there since the teenage years. It makes you feel young again even if for only an hour. You forget your problems and have fun and yell at refs and opponents. At one point of the session someone from another team said "These guys really miss high school!" That comment has stuck in my head and irritated me ever since because seriously, who doesn't miss high school? Especially high school sports. It was so fun, not to mention you had zero worries or bill's to pay. This has been a great session and a lot of fun following the Predators. The session definitely had its ups and downs but all in all, was a big success. The Predators stuck together and never turned on each other and found themselves one game away from the title. The final score of the game shows the Predators how much farther they have to go because those top teams aren't going anywhere and the Predators are yet to be linked in that category.
The Predators had a very productive session. They built on the previous session and improved, but it came with some costs. It was easy to improve on their first session because honestly, it couldn't of gotten much worse. Now they are at a point where it will be harder to go forward. 4th place is a respectable finish but the Predators want more than that. The vision is winning the title and the Predators will go on until one of the session champion photos on the Pinnacle wall says Predators. Stay tuned because in January the Predators will reunite again and will be heading indoors for session 3.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Semi-Finals Preview
The Predators are coming off a huge 1st round 7-0 win against the Seed Men. In the Semi-Finals they face the #1 seeded Gunners. In the final week of the session the Predators were beaten by the Gunners 33-13. The Predators hung around in the game into the second half playing tough defense, but were eventually worn down by the Gunners. They have tons of speed and quickness. They also rank #1 in offense and defense and the only time they've been truly tested was in a 28-20 week 5 win against Team Ice. The Predators will need to have no give aways and create some takeaways to come away with a win. It will also be important that the Predators keep their heads in the game. The Gunners are notorious for talking smack and being classless. So ignoring their taunts and just focusing on what they can control is vital. The game will be more difficult because they will not have #2 Long in the lineup. He has accounted for tons of the Predator offense and has been very accountable knocking away passes, intercepting passes and making pulls the entire session. His size and athleticism will also be greatly missed in match up situations. The Predators will be and have been missing #42 Clapper and #50 Price for this game and the last several weeks. #42 Clapper's ability to cover a lot of ground in a short period of time would have made it more difficult for the Gunners deep attack. Also, his speed and quickness would have helped the Predators equalize the speed and quickness that the Gunners bring. And #50 Price's acceleration and ability to change direction will be sorely missed at the rusher position. They will be activating #11 Brown for some depth and he brings an extra boost of speed and athleticism. The Predators will need to find a spot for him and get him comfortable quickly because there will be no time to waste. The winner of this game will be playing in the Championship Game at 9pm immediately following the Semi-Finals. The teams will be playing either #2 Team Ice or #3 Martindale, who play in the other Semi-Final. Martindale beat #6 seeded Pat Catan's in a close match up. Martindale lost big to Team Ice 33-0 in week 3.
Offensively the Predators will come with there normal lineup and game plan this week minus #2 Long. The Predators keep losing players but the concept is still the same, get open, make good throws, and catch the ball. The Predators will need to continue their plan of attack of finding holes in the zone defense. The QB will need to find the hole and get it their quickly because the Gunners defense closes on the ball very quickly. The Predators will need to play sound fundamental football to be successful. Making solid throws, catching passes, and not making mental errors will be vital to the Predators success in this game. All Predator receivers need to run to the soft spot in the zone, even if it means adjusting your route when the play begins. And when the Predators get scoring opportunities they need to take full advantage of them and punch it in. The Gunners are the most difficult defense to play against in the league. They are fast, smart and organized. But if the Predators focus on the things they can control (unforced errors), then they will be in this game at the end.
In this game defensively the Predators will also tested. From top to bottom the Gunners have the fastest, most athletic team in the league. One way to try and take away a teams speed and athleticism is to stop it before it starts. When the ball leaves the Quarterbacks hand the Predator defenders need to be flying to the receiver and make the pull before the receiver can get into open space and make something happen. The Gunners hurt the Predators in their first meeting getting yards after catches. If the Predators can anticipate what the Gunners are doing offensively, kill the play once the catch is made, then the Predators can be successful. The Predators will also need to take some chances and create some interceptions. One weakness the Predators solid defense has is converting easy interceptions. That has been a bit of a struggle for the Predator defense this session. The Gunners like to send two deep and two underneath and they go to any option. They also run pitch motion, run the ball a bit and have planned laterals. The pass rush is also huge. The rushers will have to get to the QB and keep him in front of them. This QB is very good at making rushers miss and buying time. This QB waits for the rusher to get to him and fakes one way then goes the other. How well the rushers get to the QB and disrupt his timing will be crucial to the Predators success in this game. In a nut shell, the Predators need to make pulls quickly, convert interceptions and disrupt the QB to be successful. If they do those things along with playing turnover free ball offensively, the Predators can get it done tonight.
The Predators have come so far. They find themselves in the Semi-Finals with Championship hopes still alive on the final night of the session. They have earned where they are and they know anything can happen in the playoffs. There is no doubt from management that the Predators will come out and play hard against a very good opponent. If they focus on the task at hand and take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves in the game tonight, they can be victorious. It will not be easy and the chips are stacked against them but the Predators will suit up once more this session and play the Gunners tonight at 8pm in the Semi-Finals.
Offensively the Predators will come with there normal lineup and game plan this week minus #2 Long. The Predators keep losing players but the concept is still the same, get open, make good throws, and catch the ball. The Predators will need to continue their plan of attack of finding holes in the zone defense. The QB will need to find the hole and get it their quickly because the Gunners defense closes on the ball very quickly. The Predators will need to play sound fundamental football to be successful. Making solid throws, catching passes, and not making mental errors will be vital to the Predators success in this game. All Predator receivers need to run to the soft spot in the zone, even if it means adjusting your route when the play begins. And when the Predators get scoring opportunities they need to take full advantage of them and punch it in. The Gunners are the most difficult defense to play against in the league. They are fast, smart and organized. But if the Predators focus on the things they can control (unforced errors), then they will be in this game at the end.
In this game defensively the Predators will also tested. From top to bottom the Gunners have the fastest, most athletic team in the league. One way to try and take away a teams speed and athleticism is to stop it before it starts. When the ball leaves the Quarterbacks hand the Predator defenders need to be flying to the receiver and make the pull before the receiver can get into open space and make something happen. The Gunners hurt the Predators in their first meeting getting yards after catches. If the Predators can anticipate what the Gunners are doing offensively, kill the play once the catch is made, then the Predators can be successful. The Predators will also need to take some chances and create some interceptions. One weakness the Predators solid defense has is converting easy interceptions. That has been a bit of a struggle for the Predator defense this session. The Gunners like to send two deep and two underneath and they go to any option. They also run pitch motion, run the ball a bit and have planned laterals. The pass rush is also huge. The rushers will have to get to the QB and keep him in front of them. This QB is very good at making rushers miss and buying time. This QB waits for the rusher to get to him and fakes one way then goes the other. How well the rushers get to the QB and disrupt his timing will be crucial to the Predators success in this game. In a nut shell, the Predators need to make pulls quickly, convert interceptions and disrupt the QB to be successful. If they do those things along with playing turnover free ball offensively, the Predators can get it done tonight.
The Predators have come so far. They find themselves in the Semi-Finals with Championship hopes still alive on the final night of the session. They have earned where they are and they know anything can happen in the playoffs. There is no doubt from management that the Predators will come out and play hard against a very good opponent. If they focus on the task at hand and take advantage of the opportunities that present themselves in the game tonight, they can be victorious. It will not be easy and the chips are stacked against them but the Predators will suit up once more this session and play the Gunners tonight at 8pm in the Semi-Finals.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Predators Advance To Semi Finals
Warming up for the Game Tuesday night before the Predators and Seed Men game there was a chill and an excitement in the air. The Predators appeared composed and focused as they performed their individual warm ups and stretches in anticipation for the game. There was a little chatter and some laughs aimed towards the local pro football team as the Predators prepared. Standing back and observing the Predators it is easy to see that they have come a long way this session and want to go even further. It was a tough, hard battle and their opponent gave them everything they had, but the Predators were victorious over the Seed Men 7-0. The Seed Men played hard in a losing effort and when the final whistle blew it was obvious both teams had respect for the other.
At the start of the game the Predators forced the Seed Men into a quick three and out. It was scary after the first offensive play of the game as #2 Long came hobbling to the sideline after he got tangled up with a Seed Men defender going for a deep pass down the left sideline. The Predators quickly had to punt and were left with six players to play two platoon as #2 Long was looking like he couldn't return. But the Predators didn't panic. #27 Clapper quickly moved #1 Clark back to safety and #45 Price filled in at corner back. The Predators didn't miss a beat forcing the Seed Men into another three and out. The Predators were constantly right in the Seed Men receivers hip pocket the entire night, knocking away passes once the ball arrived. #45 Price made a nice play on the ball at the Predator sideline forcing the Seed Men into another punt. #7 Brown also played an exceptional game manning his zone by knocking away passes and pulling flags immediately after catches were made. #7 Brown came with his best defensive performance of the season and appeared to lead the team in pulls for the game. During the first half neither team committed a turnover and struggled to find themselves in their opponents territory. #7 Brown started the game off a little shaky, but quickly got into rhythm. #7 Brown spread the ball around hitting Predator receivers and found themselves in scoring position after a #27 Clapper catch and run. They had the ball 1st and goal with 25 yards to go and quickly had two incomplete passes. On 3rd and goal the Predators threw a nicely placed pass down the middle of the field but #45 Price couldn't come down with it at the 1 yard line. It was a tough catch in traffic but one #45 Price felt he should have come down with. At the end of the first half the Seed Men quickly moved the ball down field getting into scoring position with little time remaining. The Predators once again played bend don't brake defense holding the Seed Men out of the end zone as the half came to a close with the score 0-0. The Predators were fortunate on the final play where the Seed Men quarterback place the ball perfectly down the middle and three Predator defenders were standing looking for the others to make a play. Both teams in the first half had a number of turnover opportunities but neither were able to capitalize.
In the second half the Predators played much better offensively and continued their solid defensive play. #7 Brown hit a number of Predator receivers as they were able to complete passes and move the ball putting themselves in position to move the chains and score. #27 Clapper made many catches on the night and did his thing after the catch picking up yards. #7 Brown threw a strike to #52 Oberhaus into the teeth of the defense and #52 Oberhaus came down with it. #45 Price also caught many passes over the middle and appears that he is getting very comfortable finding holes in the zone defense. The Predator pass rush also played brilliantly. #53 Wlotzko and #45 Price were consistently putting the pressure on the Seed Men quarterback forcing him into a number of bad throws. #45 Price had two sacks for the game and #53 Wlotzko had two passes batted down in the game. They are getting better and better and both had a huge impact on the game. #1 Clark also played his zone well, but after he torched the Seed Men in week 8 with pull after pull, the Seed Men primarily attacked the other side of the field during last nights game, and #7 Brown took advantage. #52 Oberhaus also made his mark in the game making many pulls and defending passes. It appeared the Seed Men tried to sit two receivers running curls in the deep middle and they did have some success, but #1 Clark, #7 Brown and #52 Oberhaus weathered the storm in the front line of the Predators Defense. It was interesting that the Seed Men didn't run many crossing routes in the game. They were successful in the teams first meeting. Midway through the second half the Predators got the ball back and did something with it. #7 Brown first hit #2 Long over the middle on a post getting things started. #7 Brown hit #45 Price over the middle for a big gain and a bigger first down. Next, from the sidelines a option play was called and #45 Price sucked the defense in and pitched it out to #27 Clappper and he caught the corner for bonus yards. Then after a couple of incomplete passes the drive was coming to a halt and the Seed Men self destructed. Their rusher left his feet and #7 Brown was driven into the turf on a no question roughing the passer penalty. The Predators got an automatic first down and capped the drive off with a #27 Clapper TD catch from #7 Brown by the front cone and #27 Clapper dragged his foot . #27 Clapper was pumped and spiked the ball after the score. It was a bang-bang play and the Predators got the call. #2 Long caught a slant for the point after and the Predators took the lead.
After the score the Predator defense got stronger and the Seed Men defense got weaker. The game ended with #2 Long, #27 Clapper and #52 Oberhaus interceptions. The Predators then ran the clock out and came away with their first playoff win in their first try. The game came with a cost. The Predators lost another player to injury. Leading scorer #2 Long will be out of action due to a lingering ankle/heel injury. He has been playing through it for the last couple weeks and will be unable to go on short rest. The Predators will activate #11 Brown for the semi finals. One-third of the team is injured and they only have just enough to play. Due to the injury bug that has plagued the Predators they will need a prescription and #11 Brown will fill that role. Look for #11 Brown to do a little of everything in the semi finals against the defending champion, undefeated Gunners. Look for the Semi Finals Preview due out tomorrow.
At the start of the game the Predators forced the Seed Men into a quick three and out. It was scary after the first offensive play of the game as #2 Long came hobbling to the sideline after he got tangled up with a Seed Men defender going for a deep pass down the left sideline. The Predators quickly had to punt and were left with six players to play two platoon as #2 Long was looking like he couldn't return. But the Predators didn't panic. #27 Clapper quickly moved #1 Clark back to safety and #45 Price filled in at corner back. The Predators didn't miss a beat forcing the Seed Men into another three and out. The Predators were constantly right in the Seed Men receivers hip pocket the entire night, knocking away passes once the ball arrived. #45 Price made a nice play on the ball at the Predator sideline forcing the Seed Men into another punt. #7 Brown also played an exceptional game manning his zone by knocking away passes and pulling flags immediately after catches were made. #7 Brown came with his best defensive performance of the season and appeared to lead the team in pulls for the game. During the first half neither team committed a turnover and struggled to find themselves in their opponents territory. #7 Brown started the game off a little shaky, but quickly got into rhythm. #7 Brown spread the ball around hitting Predator receivers and found themselves in scoring position after a #27 Clapper catch and run. They had the ball 1st and goal with 25 yards to go and quickly had two incomplete passes. On 3rd and goal the Predators threw a nicely placed pass down the middle of the field but #45 Price couldn't come down with it at the 1 yard line. It was a tough catch in traffic but one #45 Price felt he should have come down with. At the end of the first half the Seed Men quickly moved the ball down field getting into scoring position with little time remaining. The Predators once again played bend don't brake defense holding the Seed Men out of the end zone as the half came to a close with the score 0-0. The Predators were fortunate on the final play where the Seed Men quarterback place the ball perfectly down the middle and three Predator defenders were standing looking for the others to make a play. Both teams in the first half had a number of turnover opportunities but neither were able to capitalize.
In the second half the Predators played much better offensively and continued their solid defensive play. #7 Brown hit a number of Predator receivers as they were able to complete passes and move the ball putting themselves in position to move the chains and score. #27 Clapper made many catches on the night and did his thing after the catch picking up yards. #7 Brown threw a strike to #52 Oberhaus into the teeth of the defense and #52 Oberhaus came down with it. #45 Price also caught many passes over the middle and appears that he is getting very comfortable finding holes in the zone defense. The Predator pass rush also played brilliantly. #53 Wlotzko and #45 Price were consistently putting the pressure on the Seed Men quarterback forcing him into a number of bad throws. #45 Price had two sacks for the game and #53 Wlotzko had two passes batted down in the game. They are getting better and better and both had a huge impact on the game. #1 Clark also played his zone well, but after he torched the Seed Men in week 8 with pull after pull, the Seed Men primarily attacked the other side of the field during last nights game, and #7 Brown took advantage. #52 Oberhaus also made his mark in the game making many pulls and defending passes. It appeared the Seed Men tried to sit two receivers running curls in the deep middle and they did have some success, but #1 Clark, #7 Brown and #52 Oberhaus weathered the storm in the front line of the Predators Defense. It was interesting that the Seed Men didn't run many crossing routes in the game. They were successful in the teams first meeting. Midway through the second half the Predators got the ball back and did something with it. #7 Brown first hit #2 Long over the middle on a post getting things started. #7 Brown hit #45 Price over the middle for a big gain and a bigger first down. Next, from the sidelines a option play was called and #45 Price sucked the defense in and pitched it out to #27 Clappper and he caught the corner for bonus yards. Then after a couple of incomplete passes the drive was coming to a halt and the Seed Men self destructed. Their rusher left his feet and #7 Brown was driven into the turf on a no question roughing the passer penalty. The Predators got an automatic first down and capped the drive off with a #27 Clapper TD catch from #7 Brown by the front cone and #27 Clapper dragged his foot . #27 Clapper was pumped and spiked the ball after the score. It was a bang-bang play and the Predators got the call. #2 Long caught a slant for the point after and the Predators took the lead.
After the score the Predator defense got stronger and the Seed Men defense got weaker. The game ended with #2 Long, #27 Clapper and #52 Oberhaus interceptions. The Predators then ran the clock out and came away with their first playoff win in their first try. The game came with a cost. The Predators lost another player to injury. Leading scorer #2 Long will be out of action due to a lingering ankle/heel injury. He has been playing through it for the last couple weeks and will be unable to go on short rest. The Predators will activate #11 Brown for the semi finals. One-third of the team is injured and they only have just enough to play. Due to the injury bug that has plagued the Predators they will need a prescription and #11 Brown will fill that role. Look for #11 Brown to do a little of everything in the semi finals against the defending champion, undefeated Gunners. Look for the Semi Finals Preview due out tomorrow.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Playoff Preview
Tuesday the Predators make their first playoff appearance in their second session as a team. They qualified with a 5-4 record and a win Tuesday would post their first winning session in the teams history. Their defense has been solid almost the whole session and their offense has improved significantly since their first session. They qualified for the playoffs with the 4th seed and they play 5th seeded Seed Men, who have limped into the playoffs losing four straight after winning their first five. The Predators started the session off 3-0 but were 2-4 down the stretch. They beat up on the non-playoff teams posting a record of 3-1, outscoring those teams 68-13. Their record against playoff teams is 2-3, being outscored in those games 53-91. The good news is that they beat the Seed Men 12-0 in week 8 and know they are a more talented, organized team. The bad news is the Seed Men will play with a chip on their shoulder, hungry for revenge. Their goal was to make the winners bracket and contend for the title. A win Tuesday will assure them a top four finish. But a top four finish isn't what the Predators are looking for. After sitting back and analyzing the session the Predators have been very resilient and answered many challenges.
In week 1 the Predators beat Pat Catan's 8-6. It was a hard fought game and in hind sight, was probably the most important game of the session. The Predators (5-4) finished the session in 4th place. Next in 5th is the Seed Men (5-4), followed by Pat Catan's (4-5) in the sixth and final spot, who beat Seed Men 13-0 on Thursday night to get in and they play third seeded Martindale (6-3, winners of five straight) at 9pm on Tuesday. BAMF (4-5) finished in 7th, one spot out after being in the playoffs the whole session. If the Predators lose that tough, hard fought game on opening night against Pat Catan's, the Predators would be sitting in 7th place, on the outside looking in. It goes to show how every play matters and you have to be focused and tuned in on every down to be successful. In week 4 against BAMF the Predators lost two important players to the teams over all blue print for the session. #42 Clapper went down on offense early in the game and then #50 Price went down on the following defensive series, both suffering knee injuries. The Predators lost the game 0-7 and where left wondering, what happens next? In week 6 after two straight losses, the Predators bounced back beating Evolution convincing and that was the game where the newly vamped offense took form. In week 8 the Predators needed one more win to seal their fate as a playoff team and they suffocated the Seed Men 12-0. The session has had its ups and downs, but the Predators still find themselves in the hunt for the Championship. Many times during the session many teams would have just packed it in and said "our seasons over, it's just flag football." But the Predators don't see it that way. The Predators wouldn't be out there to just goof around and waste the time (and money) they have invested preparing. Who would've thought the team would have changed and adapted to what it is today the first time the Predators were running hills at Green Leaf getting ready for the session? The Predators will look back on the session as a success but now will look ahead to the playoffs where everybody is (0-0). What happened in the regular season stays in the regular season and what happens in the playoffs is up to the Predators. They will need to come hungry and go for the kill because they have a tough Seed Men waiting for them.
Offensively in the first round the Predators will come with #7 Brown at quarterback and #45 Price in certain situations. They will again rely heavily on #2 Long (8 TDs this session) and #27 Clapper (3 TDs in final four games) to do their thing against the Seed Men. They will also need to find the rest of the Predator receivers underneath and continue to convert 1st downs into touchdowns. The playoffs is a time when the unexpected happens and the Predators will need all six offensive players on the field to get open and make plays to help out their quarterbacks. They need to work together and slightly brush a defender to allow a teammate to get open. They also need to focus on not turning the ball over. In weeks six and seven they had it going well, but last week they had four turnovers and in week 8 against Seed Men they had five in a win, something unlikely to produce another win. They will come with a few new wrinkles in the offense, but they will still need to just execute by having fun and playing throw and catch. They will need to be focused and the offense will need to be crisp for the Predators to come out with a win.
Defensively the Predators need to do what they did last time against the Seed Men. Play bend don't brake defense and smother the Seed Men offense. Their last defensive performance against the Seed Men was very impressive and perhaps the most important performance on either side of the ball this session. They stopped the Seed Men on downs in scoring position numerous times and will need another similar effort. #52 Oberhaus (4 Interceptions) has manned the middle the entire session and the Predators are looking for him to disrupt the middle passing lanes and have a big game. The Predators will also be relying on #1 Clark (1 interception) at corner back to continue his progress in his new position by pulling flags and defending passes. At the other corner back the Predators will also need #7 Brown to eye up that quarterback and anticipate the short crossing routes that the Seed Men were successful with in week 8, and step in front of one and take it the other way. They Seed Men ran everyone on a slant to the same side and one player would run underneath in the opposite direction (same way QB was rolling) and the quarterback converted it many times. Something both #1 Clark and #7 Brown will need to be aware of. The Predators will also need #53 Wlotzko (2 sacks) to continue rushing hard and irritate the quarterback. The Predators will get #45 Price (4 sacks) back and he is hungry to hunt down the quarterback. The QB has a rocket arm and likes to scramble, but isn't very fast. #2 Long and #27 Clapper (combine for 8 interceptions) at the safeties will need to be on cue because the Seed Men will test them deep so they need be ball hawks and not allow deep passes down field. If the Predators show up and play to their potential, they will come away with a win.
The Predators are pumped to be playing in their first playoff game. They know it's win or go home and it's a long time til the spring session begins. They don't want their session to end just yet and would love another opportunity to compete on Thursday night to prove again, they belong. Find out what the Predators are made of Tuesday at 8pm when they face the Seed Men.
In week 1 the Predators beat Pat Catan's 8-6. It was a hard fought game and in hind sight, was probably the most important game of the session. The Predators (5-4) finished the session in 4th place. Next in 5th is the Seed Men (5-4), followed by Pat Catan's (4-5) in the sixth and final spot, who beat Seed Men 13-0 on Thursday night to get in and they play third seeded Martindale (6-3, winners of five straight) at 9pm on Tuesday. BAMF (4-5) finished in 7th, one spot out after being in the playoffs the whole session. If the Predators lose that tough, hard fought game on opening night against Pat Catan's, the Predators would be sitting in 7th place, on the outside looking in. It goes to show how every play matters and you have to be focused and tuned in on every down to be successful. In week 4 against BAMF the Predators lost two important players to the teams over all blue print for the session. #42 Clapper went down on offense early in the game and then #50 Price went down on the following defensive series, both suffering knee injuries. The Predators lost the game 0-7 and where left wondering, what happens next? In week 6 after two straight losses, the Predators bounced back beating Evolution convincing and that was the game where the newly vamped offense took form. In week 8 the Predators needed one more win to seal their fate as a playoff team and they suffocated the Seed Men 12-0. The session has had its ups and downs, but the Predators still find themselves in the hunt for the Championship. Many times during the session many teams would have just packed it in and said "our seasons over, it's just flag football." But the Predators don't see it that way. The Predators wouldn't be out there to just goof around and waste the time (and money) they have invested preparing. Who would've thought the team would have changed and adapted to what it is today the first time the Predators were running hills at Green Leaf getting ready for the session? The Predators will look back on the session as a success but now will look ahead to the playoffs where everybody is (0-0). What happened in the regular season stays in the regular season and what happens in the playoffs is up to the Predators. They will need to come hungry and go for the kill because they have a tough Seed Men waiting for them.
Offensively in the first round the Predators will come with #7 Brown at quarterback and #45 Price in certain situations. They will again rely heavily on #2 Long (8 TDs this session) and #27 Clapper (3 TDs in final four games) to do their thing against the Seed Men. They will also need to find the rest of the Predator receivers underneath and continue to convert 1st downs into touchdowns. The playoffs is a time when the unexpected happens and the Predators will need all six offensive players on the field to get open and make plays to help out their quarterbacks. They need to work together and slightly brush a defender to allow a teammate to get open. They also need to focus on not turning the ball over. In weeks six and seven they had it going well, but last week they had four turnovers and in week 8 against Seed Men they had five in a win, something unlikely to produce another win. They will come with a few new wrinkles in the offense, but they will still need to just execute by having fun and playing throw and catch. They will need to be focused and the offense will need to be crisp for the Predators to come out with a win.
Defensively the Predators need to do what they did last time against the Seed Men. Play bend don't brake defense and smother the Seed Men offense. Their last defensive performance against the Seed Men was very impressive and perhaps the most important performance on either side of the ball this session. They stopped the Seed Men on downs in scoring position numerous times and will need another similar effort. #52 Oberhaus (4 Interceptions) has manned the middle the entire session and the Predators are looking for him to disrupt the middle passing lanes and have a big game. The Predators will also be relying on #1 Clark (1 interception) at corner back to continue his progress in his new position by pulling flags and defending passes. At the other corner back the Predators will also need #7 Brown to eye up that quarterback and anticipate the short crossing routes that the Seed Men were successful with in week 8, and step in front of one and take it the other way. They Seed Men ran everyone on a slant to the same side and one player would run underneath in the opposite direction (same way QB was rolling) and the quarterback converted it many times. Something both #1 Clark and #7 Brown will need to be aware of. The Predators will also need #53 Wlotzko (2 sacks) to continue rushing hard and irritate the quarterback. The Predators will get #45 Price (4 sacks) back and he is hungry to hunt down the quarterback. The QB has a rocket arm and likes to scramble, but isn't very fast. #2 Long and #27 Clapper (combine for 8 interceptions) at the safeties will need to be on cue because the Seed Men will test them deep so they need be ball hawks and not allow deep passes down field. If the Predators show up and play to their potential, they will come away with a win.
The Predators are pumped to be playing in their first playoff game. They know it's win or go home and it's a long time til the spring session begins. They don't want their session to end just yet and would love another opportunity to compete on Thursday night to prove again, they belong. Find out what the Predators are made of Tuesday at 8pm when they face the Seed Men.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Predators Lose Finale
The Predators went into the final week against a tough opponent and lost the game 33-13. They had a couple of first half turnovers and were behind 14-7 at the half. #52 Oberhaus intercepted a lateral deep in the opponents territory and took it in for the score. He ripped the ball from the receiver and heads collided and #52 Oberhaus wanted it more. In the second half the Predators were within a score with about ten minutes to go and they turned the ball over a couple more times trying to get back in it and the opponent took advantage and the game ended in a mercy. The Predators kept their cool against a classless opponent and know what goes around, comes around and they are confident they will get revenge!
Although the Predators lost the game they proved that they are getting closer to beating the best team in the league. They moved the ball well, but were unable to convert drives and first downs into touchdowns. A habit they are improving upon but constantly falling back into. They now know that they need to get sharper to get over the top. Their lone offensive touchdown in the second half was a #7 Brown pass to #2 Long. The Predators also didn't have #45 Price for the game so they brought in original Predator #19 Sterowski for some relief. The Predators did what they could short handed and proved they are taking steps forward.
Against Team Ice (8-1) and the Gunners (9-0) the Predators were within one score with ten minutes to go. They didn't have #50 Price and #42 Clapper for either game and no #45 Price for Gunners and they still played hard, didn't back down and never gave up. Something management can always rely on with their roster. They are close and proud of what they've done and will carry that into their first round playoff game (Monday) against Seed Men. They beat the Seed Men 12-0 a week and a half ago so the Predators know the Seed Men will be hungry for revenge. Stay tuned for the Playoff Preview where the Predators will be making their first appearance in team history. The Preview will be out on Monday.
Although the Predators lost the game they proved that they are getting closer to beating the best team in the league. They moved the ball well, but were unable to convert drives and first downs into touchdowns. A habit they are improving upon but constantly falling back into. They now know that they need to get sharper to get over the top. Their lone offensive touchdown in the second half was a #7 Brown pass to #2 Long. The Predators also didn't have #45 Price for the game so they brought in original Predator #19 Sterowski for some relief. The Predators did what they could short handed and proved they are taking steps forward.
Against Team Ice (8-1) and the Gunners (9-0) the Predators were within one score with ten minutes to go. They didn't have #50 Price and #42 Clapper for either game and no #45 Price for Gunners and they still played hard, didn't back down and never gave up. Something management can always rely on with their roster. They are close and proud of what they've done and will carry that into their first round playoff game (Monday) against Seed Men. They beat the Seed Men 12-0 a week and a half ago so the Predators know the Seed Men will be hungry for revenge. Stay tuned for the Playoff Preview where the Predators will be making their first appearance in team history. The Preview will be out on Monday.
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Week 9
Going into the final week of the session the Predators feel good about their 5-3 record. The previous session the Predators were 0-8 and searching for answers. This year they are smarter, more composed, and ready for any challenge. This week they play The Gunners, who are reigning champions and 8-0 this season. The Gunners are first in the league in points (352) and points against (48), and are obviously the most superior team in the league. The Gunners beat Team Ice 28-20 in close week 5 game where it came down to the final possession. Team Ice committed two costly turnovers early in the game that left them with a two score deficit and were unable to recover. The Gunners are a very solid team that know what to do during certain game situations. Their offense is efficient and they like to throw the ball deep. The Gunners have managed to master the deep pass and racked up points against almost everyone they have played. But if the Predators can take away the deep ball and make pulls quickly on the underneath routes, The Gunners are beatable.
The Predators come into this game fifth in points (101) and third in points against (65) and were neck and neck with Team Ice with ten minutes to go. They are close to being championship caliber and the question is "can the prove it?" It is one thing to look at the numbers and think the Predators are close, but it's another thing to prove it on the field. The Predators have a swagger with both the offense and defense playing well and they need to build on that this week against a fundamentally sound Gunners team.
Offensively the Predators need to continue the progress they have made and play their style of offense. They currently have a play book they are confident in and need to stay within that play book to be successful. It is easy to get too hyped up for a big game and make mistakes because a team is trying too hard. The Predators will come with #7 Brown at quarterback, who has played well recently completing passes on first and second downs and giving the Predators a chance to convert on third downs. #7 Brown looks far more comfortable under center this session and is very excited about the opportunity the Predators have this week. The Predators will also be relying on #27 Clapper to continue his strong play this week by picking up extra yards once the ball enters his hands. #45 Price will need to find the soft spots in the Gunners 3-2 zone and he maybe the key in a Predators upset win. #2 Long is questionable this week after suffering a heel injury last week against the Seed Men. The Predators will be cautious with #2 Long because the playoffs are just around the corner.
Defensively is where the game will be won and lost for the Predators. The Predators defense has been strong the whole season, except for a poor performance against Martindale. If they protect the deep ball (how the Gunners have racked up so many points) and prevent big plays by pulling flags after completions, the Predators will be right there as the game winds down. It all starts with a strong pass rush from #45 Price and #53 Wlotzko. The Gunners quarterback (6) is fast and can throw it from just about anywhere in any situation. The Predators pass rush will have to stay in front of the quaterback and sacrifice sacks to keep him in front and make the QB throw off his back foot. Covering the receivers on the Gunners is another challenge. All of them but the center (28) are excellent players. They have two short, fast players (2, 22), one all around tall fast receiver (21) and one really tall receiver who has out jumped every defensive back in his way (81). They also have one other player and not much is known about him.
Simply, the Predators pass rush has to keep the QB in front of them, the secondary then has to have tight, disciplined coverage, and when a pass is completed a flag needs pulled immediately, preventing a big play before it can happen. And the offense can't turn the ball over putting their defense in high risk situations. It is easy to write what needs to be done to win and it's a totally different thing to execute it on the field against a very good team, but the Predators are ready, excited and always give it their all. Predator management feels that the squad lining up tomorrow night is a more complete, well rounded team than the squad that lined up in week one and gives them the best chance of beating the Gunners tomorrow night. The Predators will suit up again in the red and gold and play spoiler Thursday at 10pm.
The Predators come into this game fifth in points (101) and third in points against (65) and were neck and neck with Team Ice with ten minutes to go. They are close to being championship caliber and the question is "can the prove it?" It is one thing to look at the numbers and think the Predators are close, but it's another thing to prove it on the field. The Predators have a swagger with both the offense and defense playing well and they need to build on that this week against a fundamentally sound Gunners team.
Offensively the Predators need to continue the progress they have made and play their style of offense. They currently have a play book they are confident in and need to stay within that play book to be successful. It is easy to get too hyped up for a big game and make mistakes because a team is trying too hard. The Predators will come with #7 Brown at quarterback, who has played well recently completing passes on first and second downs and giving the Predators a chance to convert on third downs. #7 Brown looks far more comfortable under center this session and is very excited about the opportunity the Predators have this week. The Predators will also be relying on #27 Clapper to continue his strong play this week by picking up extra yards once the ball enters his hands. #45 Price will need to find the soft spots in the Gunners 3-2 zone and he maybe the key in a Predators upset win. #2 Long is questionable this week after suffering a heel injury last week against the Seed Men. The Predators will be cautious with #2 Long because the playoffs are just around the corner.
Defensively is where the game will be won and lost for the Predators. The Predators defense has been strong the whole season, except for a poor performance against Martindale. If they protect the deep ball (how the Gunners have racked up so many points) and prevent big plays by pulling flags after completions, the Predators will be right there as the game winds down. It all starts with a strong pass rush from #45 Price and #53 Wlotzko. The Gunners quarterback (6) is fast and can throw it from just about anywhere in any situation. The Predators pass rush will have to stay in front of the quaterback and sacrifice sacks to keep him in front and make the QB throw off his back foot. Covering the receivers on the Gunners is another challenge. All of them but the center (28) are excellent players. They have two short, fast players (2, 22), one all around tall fast receiver (21) and one really tall receiver who has out jumped every defensive back in his way (81). They also have one other player and not much is known about him.
Simply, the Predators pass rush has to keep the QB in front of them, the secondary then has to have tight, disciplined coverage, and when a pass is completed a flag needs pulled immediately, preventing a big play before it can happen. And the offense can't turn the ball over putting their defense in high risk situations. It is easy to write what needs to be done to win and it's a totally different thing to execute it on the field against a very good team, but the Predators are ready, excited and always give it their all. Predator management feels that the squad lining up tomorrow night is a more complete, well rounded team than the squad that lined up in week one and gives them the best chance of beating the Gunners tomorrow night. The Predators will suit up again in the red and gold and play spoiler Thursday at 10pm.
Predators Stunt Seed Men's Growth
Going into the Seed Men game the Predators expected to see a lot of man defense. They also wanted to see how they adjusted and reacted to that defense. Well, the Predators saw none of it. The Seed Men came out and played zone for entirely the whole game. Throughout the Predators history they have struggled adjusting during in game situations. Well, they have been infamous for that but the Predators proved they can adjust to situations they didn't expect. Another thing the Predators demonstrated during the game is that they got an identity back since losing two players in Week 4. When the overall plan for the season gets majorly disrupted it can take time to readjust and figure out the path to take. The Predators weathered the storm during that time and now find themselves with a new identity just in time for the playoffs. The Predators won the game 12-0, the defense played outstanding, the offense moved the ball very effectively, but improvements definitely need made.
Many ways offensively the Predators arguably played their best game of the season. They continuously moved the ball from start to finish. They had more drives where they converted first downs than not and that hasn't happened the entire season. But they committed four turnovers on offense and that won't get it done against the best teams (Gunners, Team Ice, Martindale). #7 Brown completed pass after pass to #2 Long, #27 Clapper, and #45 Price for the most part. #2 Long, who once again caught passes diving to the turf and jumping in air. He also scored the first touchdown of the game catching a good pass from #7 Brown down the left sideline, made a guy miss, and ran the rest of the way for the score. #27 Clapper, who once again caught passes short, made defenders miss picking up big yards after catches. #45 Price also played well offensively, he found holes in the defense 10-12 yards down field where #7 Brown was able to find him. In the second half he also scored the second of the two touchdowns from #7 Brown where he placed himself wide open deep down the middle between the zone coverages. It was a great find by #7 Brown and #45 Price nearly dropped it once he was so open. #52 Oberhaus also showed some flashes of offensive output where he got himself open a time or two and caught a couple passes and showed his arm strength off at the end of the first half, but the pass was incomplete.
This is the identity the Predators have found. It has become a trend the last three weeks how the Predators have moved the ball. #2 Long catches the majority of down field passes, #27 Clapper catches short passes and gains yards after catch, #45 Price is finding holes in zones as the check down receiver and #7 Brown is finding soft spots in the defense and is making quick, accurate throws for receivers to catch . #1 Clark, #52 Oberhaus, and #53 Wlotzko are not go to guys in the offense as of now, but a time will come when the Predators will need them to make big catches, so they need to be ready at all times.
Defensively the Predators played solid, bend don't break defense. The Seed Men had three scoring opportunities during the game and the Predators held firm. Two of which the Seed Men had first and goal inside the 15. The first part of a successful defense is the pass rush and #45 Price (2 sacks) and #53 Wlotzko both answered the call. They continuously irritated the Seed Man quarterback forcing bad throws and when the quarterback made a good throw the secondary was there to knock it away. #2 Long made many solid defensive plays knocking away passes and also had a big interception. Especially one in particular where he snuck in and knocked away a for sure touchdown deep down field. Another theme during the game was #1 Clark's solid defense play. Time after time the Seed Men kept trying to go short and when they did #1 Clark was on the receiver like white on rice. Even when the pass was completed #1 Clark was there to make the pull before the Seed Men could make a big play. It was obvious he led the Predators in pulls for the game and was the only Predator that was 100% on pull opportunities. Since he has moved from safety to corner he has virtually locked up the front short zone area of the field in the Predators Red defense. When the pass is completed he has been nipping the play in the bud by making the pull quickly before a big play can happen. Something the Predators take pride in and is essential against the top teams in the league (Gunners, Team Ice, Martindale). #52 Oberhaus also exhibits the same characteristics on defense. While making many good pulls in the game #52 Oberhaus made a great interception in the second half stepping in front of a rocket pass. But he tried to lateral the ball and it was intercepted by the Seed Men.
Overall the Predators played a great game. They have found their identity for the rest of the season and they continue to build on the week before and their confidence is growing because of it. They are making big strides just in time for the playoffs and a good performance against The Gunners (8-0) in the season finally would be just what the doctor orders for a exciting, deep playoff run.
Many ways offensively the Predators arguably played their best game of the season. They continuously moved the ball from start to finish. They had more drives where they converted first downs than not and that hasn't happened the entire season. But they committed four turnovers on offense and that won't get it done against the best teams (Gunners, Team Ice, Martindale). #7 Brown completed pass after pass to #2 Long, #27 Clapper, and #45 Price for the most part. #2 Long, who once again caught passes diving to the turf and jumping in air. He also scored the first touchdown of the game catching a good pass from #7 Brown down the left sideline, made a guy miss, and ran the rest of the way for the score. #27 Clapper, who once again caught passes short, made defenders miss picking up big yards after catches. #45 Price also played well offensively, he found holes in the defense 10-12 yards down field where #7 Brown was able to find him. In the second half he also scored the second of the two touchdowns from #7 Brown where he placed himself wide open deep down the middle between the zone coverages. It was a great find by #7 Brown and #45 Price nearly dropped it once he was so open. #52 Oberhaus also showed some flashes of offensive output where he got himself open a time or two and caught a couple passes and showed his arm strength off at the end of the first half, but the pass was incomplete.
This is the identity the Predators have found. It has become a trend the last three weeks how the Predators have moved the ball. #2 Long catches the majority of down field passes, #27 Clapper catches short passes and gains yards after catch, #45 Price is finding holes in zones as the check down receiver and #7 Brown is finding soft spots in the defense and is making quick, accurate throws for receivers to catch . #1 Clark, #52 Oberhaus, and #53 Wlotzko are not go to guys in the offense as of now, but a time will come when the Predators will need them to make big catches, so they need to be ready at all times.
Defensively the Predators played solid, bend don't break defense. The Seed Men had three scoring opportunities during the game and the Predators held firm. Two of which the Seed Men had first and goal inside the 15. The first part of a successful defense is the pass rush and #45 Price (2 sacks) and #53 Wlotzko both answered the call. They continuously irritated the Seed Man quarterback forcing bad throws and when the quarterback made a good throw the secondary was there to knock it away. #2 Long made many solid defensive plays knocking away passes and also had a big interception. Especially one in particular where he snuck in and knocked away a for sure touchdown deep down field. Another theme during the game was #1 Clark's solid defense play. Time after time the Seed Men kept trying to go short and when they did #1 Clark was on the receiver like white on rice. Even when the pass was completed #1 Clark was there to make the pull before the Seed Men could make a big play. It was obvious he led the Predators in pulls for the game and was the only Predator that was 100% on pull opportunities. Since he has moved from safety to corner he has virtually locked up the front short zone area of the field in the Predators Red defense. When the pass is completed he has been nipping the play in the bud by making the pull quickly before a big play can happen. Something the Predators take pride in and is essential against the top teams in the league (Gunners, Team Ice, Martindale). #52 Oberhaus also exhibits the same characteristics on defense. While making many good pulls in the game #52 Oberhaus made a great interception in the second half stepping in front of a rocket pass. But he tried to lateral the ball and it was intercepted by the Seed Men.
Overall the Predators played a great game. They have found their identity for the rest of the season and they continue to build on the week before and their confidence is growing because of it. They are making big strides just in time for the playoffs and a good performance against The Gunners (8-0) in the season finally would be just what the doctor orders for a exciting, deep playoff run.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Week 8
At the conclusion of last weeks game against Team Ice the Predators thought they needed a win against the Seed Men (5-2) to qualify for the playoffs. There is five teams in the running for the final four playoff spots and the only team the Predators have to worry about is Pat Catans. Pat Catans is 3-4 and the Predators hold the head-to-head tie breaker because of the 8-6 win in week one. Pat Catans final two games are against Team Ice and Seed Men. A loss in either game will automatically eliminate Pat Catans from playoff contention and it is unlikely they will win both games. It is exciting news for the Predators that they will most likely be going to the Playoffs, but two losses in the final two weeks will assure them the last and final playoff spot and most likely, a first round match up against Martindale. A team that has caused the most trouble for the Predators so far this season. Martindale is on a three game winning streak and has only Robinson (0-7) and BAMF (4-3) left on their schedule. Assuming Martindale wins out and locks up the 3rd seed, they will eventually play the 6th seed in the first round. That leaves the fourth and fifth seeds wide open. BAMF's (4-3) remaining schedule consists of The Gunners and Martindale and the Seed Men's remaining schedule is the Predators (4-3) and Pat Catans (3-4). The Predators final game of the season is against The Gunners (7-0), so this weeks game against Seed Men is still very important in terms of seeding in the playoffs. A win this week will almost assure the Predators a first round game against BAMF or Seed Men. A loss this week will force the Predators to win the final game of the season against a very talented Gunners team, who score over 40 points a game and give up less than five, and assure the Predators a first round matchup against Martindale. It is a lot of "what ifs" but something the Predators should be aware of.
Offensively this week against Seed Men, the Predators will most likely see a lot of man. They have played man almost entirely the whole season and it is a good bet they will continue. The Predators will use both #7 Brown and #45 Price at quarterback this week and will need to use crossing routes and double routes to neutralize Seed Men's man defense. Crossing routes are difficult to cover in man, especially if the defense doesn't switch, because defenders have to run through offensive and defensive players to stay locked on their man in coverage. And double routes (slant and go, out and up, stop and go, post-flags) are effective if the defense bits on the first route. It will be interesting to see how the Predator offense adapts to Seed Man's man coverage because they have struggled with it this season when they have seen it. It will also be interesting to see how the quarterbacks handle it because anyone on the offense could be open and that's a lot to have to see when the rusher is barreling down on them. The Seed Men have some fast, athletic players and as the game goes on those players will most likely have their best coverage guys on #2 Long, #27 Clapper, and either #7 Brown or #45 Price (whoever isn't at quarterback). This leaves #1 Clark, #52 Oberhaus and #53 Wlotzko to deal with the rest of the Seed Man defenders. Man defense is a really good opportunity for those three Predators to get open and make a significant difference in the game offensively because anyone can be open in man defense.
Defensively the Predators will see a quarterback who isn't very fast, but loves to scramble. He has a rocket arm but at times is suspect with his accuracy. If the Predator rush (#53 Wlotzko and #45 Price) play as they did last week, the Predators should be in good shape. The Predators will need their red defense to be at it's best of the season for the Predators to be successful. As long as the rush is strong and the defensive backs play their assignments, the Predators should win the game.
The scores of these two teams games have been similar against opponents they both have played, so this one should come down to the wire and the team who commits the least penalties will most likely win the game. The Predators and Seed Men go head-to-head this Thursday at 9pm.
Offensively this week against Seed Men, the Predators will most likely see a lot of man. They have played man almost entirely the whole season and it is a good bet they will continue. The Predators will use both #7 Brown and #45 Price at quarterback this week and will need to use crossing routes and double routes to neutralize Seed Men's man defense. Crossing routes are difficult to cover in man, especially if the defense doesn't switch, because defenders have to run through offensive and defensive players to stay locked on their man in coverage. And double routes (slant and go, out and up, stop and go, post-flags) are effective if the defense bits on the first route. It will be interesting to see how the Predator offense adapts to Seed Man's man coverage because they have struggled with it this season when they have seen it. It will also be interesting to see how the quarterbacks handle it because anyone on the offense could be open and that's a lot to have to see when the rusher is barreling down on them. The Seed Men have some fast, athletic players and as the game goes on those players will most likely have their best coverage guys on #2 Long, #27 Clapper, and either #7 Brown or #45 Price (whoever isn't at quarterback). This leaves #1 Clark, #52 Oberhaus and #53 Wlotzko to deal with the rest of the Seed Man defenders. Man defense is a really good opportunity for those three Predators to get open and make a significant difference in the game offensively because anyone can be open in man defense.
Defensively the Predators will see a quarterback who isn't very fast, but loves to scramble. He has a rocket arm but at times is suspect with his accuracy. If the Predator rush (#53 Wlotzko and #45 Price) play as they did last week, the Predators should be in good shape. The Predators will need their red defense to be at it's best of the season for the Predators to be successful. As long as the rush is strong and the defensive backs play their assignments, the Predators should win the game.
The scores of these two teams games have been similar against opponents they both have played, so this one should come down to the wire and the team who commits the least penalties will most likely win the game. The Predators and Seed Men go head-to-head this Thursday at 9pm.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)