Division C: Mid-Season Report Cards Part 2
Whats up guys!! Welcome back to part 2 of the Midseason Report Cards. A little copy paste from last week as I explain how I will evaluate each team and the general idea around Mid season report cards. Each team will receive a letter grade, based on their production so far this season in contrast to their preseason expectations. In other words, its very possible for an undefeated team to receive a B or C and a 3-3 team receive an A. In week 1 & 2 I had posted my top 12 teams and indicated who I thought the 5 teams who wouldn’t make the playoffs. In other words if your team wasn’t mentioned in either of those 2 categories, I predicted you would be in the middle of the pack in a playoff spot but not in a bye week position.
The letter grades correspond as so;
A – You’ve exceeded pre-season expectations. I never would have thought the team in question would have performed this well.
B – The team is surpassing the expectations that I placed on them ahead of the season, or perhaps you meeting expectations with your record, but have won close matchups against tough opponents.
C – I was right, and the team is performing exactly as expected.
D- Your team has underperformed in comparison to pre-season expectations. You’ve probably lost matchups which your squad was favoured to win.
Mengoose (0-8)
Am I surprised with their record? No. Am I disappointed? Absolutely. Peeze has mentioned it on calling the audible a few times now how you never want to see a team go undefeated in a division. Well the same goes for a winless season. I did predict the team to be in the bottom 5 and not make playoffs due to the strength of Div C and their schedule but after back to back one possession losses Mengoose cannot catch a break. QB Felix-Antoine Lavigne has had trouble protecting the ball as he did in his previous season in div 4. 90 points for, 16 INT’s and 17 sacks in 6 games makes it really tough to win in such an offensive league. Their one bright spot of the season so far has been DB and WR Jeremy Pelletier. Pelletier has caught 5 touchdowns on offence and snatched one of the only 2 INT’s the team has on defence. Coming up on their schedule they play Hot Sauce Sports and Kiss My Inlaws who have a combined 1 loss this season. I really hope these guys can get a win before season end!
Grade: C-
Record Prediction: 1-9
Hot Sauce Sports (2-5)
I hate to be wrong about this one. In my top 12 preseason rankings I had placed Hot Sauce Sports as they 11th seed and the second to last team to secure a bye week spot. Here we are 6 weeks later and this squad is sitting at 2-5 fighting for a playoff spot. Apart from their week 1 loss every game of theirs has come down to one possession. Unfortunately for HSS they keep finding themselves on the losing end. Peeze hasn’t played necessarily bad this season for a 2-5 team but he surly hasn’t been playing great. To be completely honest, even thought the HSS defence hasn’t given up an extreme amount of points for, their lack of QB pressure and turnovers allows teams to use the clock against them and keeps their offence constantly playing from behind. Only 3 INT’s and 3 sacks in 6 games….Not winning football. Luckily enough for them this team still has 3 games left on their schedule and there is still time to turn their season around. I NEED to see more from Will Power who needs to be this teams all star. The guy is a baller and a difference maker on the field, his name needs to show up some more not he stat sheet. I know Peeze has thrown 25 targets already but FEED THE MAN. Disappointing to say the least but I firmly believe this team can make the playoffs
Grade: D-
Record Prediction: 4-6
Never Overtime (2-4)
After six games into the season, the Never Overtime finds themselves with a record of 2-4 and in the bottom 5 as I initially predicted. While their performance has been lacklusterthus far, it’s worth noting that the team is currently on a two-game win streak, offering a glimmer of hope for the remainder of the season and will put on their best attempt to fight for that last playoff spot. Offensively, the Never Overtime team has struggled to put points on the board consistently. With a total of 141 points scored in six games, they have averaged just under 24 points per game. Quarterback Ryan Karouf, the key player in their offensive unit, has experienced a below-par season so far. With only 14 touchdown passes and six interceptions, Karouf’s performance has left much to be desired. One of the major concerns for the Never Overtime team has been their defensive performance. Allowing 240 points against them in six games, they have given up an insane average of 40 points per game. This highlights a significant challenge that needs to be addressed promptly, as their opponents have found success in exploiting their defense. Defensively, the team needs to address their vulnerabilities and work on tightening up their coverage. They have given up way too many one play TD’s this season and deep balls alike. Improving communication and coordination among the defensive unit is a must if Never overtime want to keep adding to their win strek. However, amidst these struggles, the recent two-game win streak indicates a potential turning point for the team. The victories not only provide a boost in morale but also demonstrate the ability of the Never Overtime team to rally and secure important wins when it matters most. These wins should serve as a catalyst for the team to build momentum and confidence moving forward. I believe this team still has a chance to prove me wrong.
Grade: C+
Record Prediction: 3-7
Les Blues Branleurs (2-5)
As the mid-point of the season approaches, Les Bleus Branleurs finds themselves with a record of 2-5. Despite their efforts, the team has faced several challenges, particularly in generating explosive plays due to a lack of speed. Opposing teams have successfully limited big plays and forced Les Bleus Branleurs to rely on sustained drives to move the chains. This team has a notable size advantage as their players offer physicality and the potential for dominance in the redzone. However, the team’s perceived lack of speed has hampered their ability to exploit these advantages fully. Opposing teams have been able to adjust their defensive strategies to limit Les Bleus Branleurs’ big-play potential, effectively forcing the offense to rely on methodical drives to sustain momentum. One notable bright spot for Les Bleus Branleurs has been the performance of wide receiver Guillaume Hamelin. With 29 receptions, 340 receiving yards, and 9 touchdowns, Hamelin has emerged as a key playmaker for the team. His consistent production and ability to find the end zone have provided a valuable offensive weapon amid the team’s struggles. I predicted this team to be in a playoff spot but they are currently siting in the bottom 5. Their remaining games don’t seem to be favourable matchups in my opinion so I unfortunately don’t see them making the post season
Grade: D
Record Prediction: 2-8
The Infantry (2-5)
When looking at this teams record compared to my preseason predictions I would say I was pretty spot on. But they didn’t get to this point the way I thought they would. I assumed this team would struggle early on and start to get into a rhythm when the Semerjian brothers got back from suspension. Instead the team has only won one game since their return. I thought this team wouldn’t be in a bye week spot but surly be in a comfortable playoff position. Through 7 weeks The Infantry is fighting to stay out of the bottom 5 and their remaining schedule is not friendly. I do need to attribute some of their struggles to their QB situation. The team has had 4 different guys take reps at QB this season. It looks like Zack Stacey will be the permanent Q going forward but the carousel of QB’s has not given this team any fluidity or consistency. I think this teams week 11 game against game changers will be the decider on weather this team makes the post season or not
Grade: C-
Record Prediction: 3-6-1
Repeat Offenders (3-3)
Long story short, I expected much more from my team at this point of the season. Although we are appearing in the top 12 at the moment, I predicted this team to be a top 5 team in the division and we have not played up to par. In recent weeks we have had the opportunity to win on the last play of the game and came up short twice. Those games were crucial to keeping a solid record but I do think it gives us motivation and insight on how important playing well in the first half is. AJ has played well as a QB so far but has thrown 11 INT’s to date. Compared to last season Aj had only thrown 3 INT’s all season. If we can limit offensive turnovers I think we can still be a top team in the division. Nicholas Groppini has been dominant offensively as he usually is. 432 yards and 13 TD’s which is good enough to find himself in the top 5 of league leaders in both categories. With a few more stellar performances he can find himself int he recover of the year conversation. With 4 games left I believe our team can still end with a positive record and should find ourselves in a bye week position at season end.
Grade: C-
Record prediction: 6-4
Junkyard Dogs 3-3
A rocky 0-2 start to the season has derailed the Junkyard Dogs a little off course but they have bounced back winning 3 of their last 4 games. In all honesty its their week 4 loss against Dime and Bougie that impresses me the most. Dime and Bougie has been the best team in the league so far and the Junkyard Dogs held their own only losing 37-34. The only thing that I can think really held them back that game was the perfect 6 TD’s and 0 INT’s that opposing QB Jules Regimbald played. Jason Rossie has played a good season so far but I would like to see more TD’s come from him in their next 4 games. His season total sits at 22 and I believe he can play even better. Defensively their team hasn’t let in too many scored averaging 30 points against, but its their lack of turnovers that might be holding them back. A team total of 4 when you’re QB has 2 of them isn’t exactly the impact you would hope for from a team with this much experience. Either way this team is performing more or less where I thought they would be…Middle of the pack.
Grade: B-
Record prediction: 5-5
4th & Shlong (3-2)
4th & Shlong has experienced a mixed start to their season, currently boasting a 3-2 record and occupying a top 12 spot in their division. After a rough beginning, where they started 0-2, the team has shown tremendous resilience by bouncing back with an undefeated streak. Led by their star quarterback, Michael Caparelli, the team has demonstrated great potential and appears poised for continued success in the remaining games.Michael Caparelli, the team’s standout quarterback, has been performing at an exceptional level, reaffirming his status as one of the divisions top QB’s. With an impressive 1,292 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and only 9 interceptions, Caparelli has consistently delivered accurate passes and demonstrated his ability to lead the offense effectively. His strong arm and decision-making have played a significant role in the team’s recent victories. Caparelli’s consistency and talent give the team a reliable offensive foundation. Paired with speedy receivers who know how to get open this is one of the best offensive units in Div C. While offensive success has been a defining factor for 4th & Shlong, the defense has also made valuable contributions. Their season addition on Justin Lerner looks to be paying off as he leads the team in INT’s with 3. This team is performing as I expected and looking ahead at the team’s remaining opponents it seems like this team should end with a better seeding then I initially claimed.
Grade: B-
Record Prediction: 7-3
TrapStars (3-4)
Trapstars have had a challenging first half of the season, currently holding a 3-4 record. It is worth noting that their latest loss did come by forfeit. I think their loss to Hot Sauce Sports is what surprises me the most as the team had never lost to them in the past. Despite the team’s struggles, their quarterback, Ryan Garber, has been a standout performer with impressive stats. Garber has displayed exceptional accuracy, throwing for 1,171 yards, 27 touchdowns, and only 5 interceptions. His remarkable numbers reflect his accuracy, mobility and ability to make the right decisions. However, despite Garber’s outstanding performances, the team has struggled to convert these individual stats into more victories. Additionally, the team’s seems to be one-dimensional on offence, primarily targeting Cooper Young, may be hindering their overall success. Relying heavily on Cooper Young, who leads the team with 63 targets, may limit the effectiveness of the overall offensive strategy. Opposing defences may have identified this pattern, making it easier to key in on Young and disrupt the team’s passing game. Expanding the offensive options and distributing the ball more evenly among other talented receivers could help the team become less predictable and more effective. While the team’s record is currently below expectations, there is still time for Trapstars to turn things around. By making the necessary adjustments on both sides of the ball, they can still be one of the divisions top 12 teams but they need to start with a huge win against Dime and Bougie
Grade: D+
Record Prediction: 4-6
Primal
Since the addition of Jared Buck at QB Primal are 3-1-1. This team has been performing at a much higher level then I expected. This team is currently sitting at 3-3-1 and are climbing the standings with solid wins over quality opponents. Jared Buck has had a good season so far throwing 1000 yards with a 6:1 TD-INT ratio. No big names pop off this roster list but this team has played really well together with all of its players contributing. INT’s have also been present with Jared Buck and Alexandre Roel leading the team with 3 each. This defence shoots zones and forces QB’s to read open spaces quickly. One thing this defence and team in general possesses is speed. With Jourdain Alexis,Mederic Lauzon, Valery Shelder to name a few they can rush the passer and blow the top off defences with ease and create tough games for even the best teams in the division. Tying Bible Study and beating Bessette Et Ses Potes tells me this team is ready for a playoff run and will be looking to finish off their season strong with a top 12 spot. I placed this team in my bottom 5 so its clear this squad is proving me wrong, so for that they get the highest grade in all of the division.
Grade: A-
Record Prediction: 5-4-1
The Commission
At 4-2 this team is exceeding my expectations. Beating the Sharks in their last game was huge for their confidence and their overall standing int he division. QB Gino Di Fazio hasn’t had the best season stats with 878 yards 19 TD’s and 9 INt’s in his 6 games played. But with his experience Gino has made the most of their offensive possessions and has figured out how to score on nearly every extra point. Actually not nearly, but on every single offensive TD, The commission has converted on their extra points. A wild accomplishment to date which shows why this team is 4-2 and can be a dark horse squad into the post season. The defensive side has been solid as well allowing only 165 points agaisnt. With Zackary Alberts-Gill rushing the quarterback the team is in good hands. His speed matched with his size allows his to get to the quarterback and in passing lanes aswell. His season total sits at 7 so far and I know he can crack double digits with 4 games remaining. The team has done a great job at distributing targets and playing their role. Needless to say i’m very impressed.
Grade: B+
Record Prediction: 6-4
Dirty Birds (2-4)
Dirty Birds have had a tough season so far currently holding a 2-4 record. The team has utilized two quarterbacks, Lonnie Johnson and Quaid Johnson, to lead their offense. Based on their performances, it seems that Lonnie Johnson is the preferred option at quarterback, while Quaid Johnson excels as an offensive threat at wide receiver. Lonnie Johnson has shown promise as the team’s quarterback, amassing 585 passing yards, 16 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. These statistics suggest that Johnson has the ability to make plays and contribute to the team’s offensive production. I am worried that they have not been able to move the ball down field much as he only has thrown for less then 600 yards. Incorporating Quaid Johnson, who has been an offensive threat at wide receiver, could provide additional versatility to the offense. He has seen the endzone 3 times so far and I think he can do even more. On the defensive side of the ball, James Tyrell has emerged as their biggest playmaker, leading the division with six interceptions. Tyrell’s playmaking ability not only provides opportunities for the offense but also disrupts the opposing team’s rhythm. With continued success Tyrell can secure his spot as the divisions Defensive player of the year with a few more INT’s added to his total. Despite the team’s record they are performing as I expected before the season began. When looking at the remaining games on their schedule I do think that dirty birds will miss the playoffs.
Grade: C-
Record Prediction: 3-7
TOPSZN (3-3)
TOPSZN has had a mixed mid-season performance with a 3-3 record. The team has shown the ability to defeat quality opponents but has also experienced losses to teams like Game Changers and Bible Study. Shawn McGrath has been the team’s quarterback, showcasing his talent with 23 touchdowns and 6 interceptions in 5 games. Additionally, Ryan McGrath has emerged as the primary target, surpassing his fellow receivers by a significant margin in targets by at least 30. He has also found the endzone and scored 13 touchdowns so far. While the team’s record may not reflect consistent W’s, their individual performances from Shawn and Ryan McGrath and wins over teams like Kiss My Inlaws indicate that TOPSZN is not a team you would like to see in the playoffs. I am disappointed in what Carter Soles has produced since his week 1 outburst. We haven’t seen any more INT’s and the dominance of targets to Ryan have left Carter Soles wanting more. I did expect this team to be in the top 12 so were almost right on schedule.
Grade: C-
Prediction Record: 6-4