FINAL WHISTLE: PLAYOFF PICTURE IS SET

From dominant performances to heart-wrenching losses, the final week of the regular season left no shortage of drama as teams scrambled to lock up 1 of the 20 playoff spots. Here’s how it all went down.

WHAT NEEDED TO HAPPEN… AND DIDN’T

In a dramatic twist to close out the regular season, Les Flagouilleurs pulled off a near-miraculous feat to claim the 20th and final playoff spot—without even stepping onto the field in the final week. Their 4-5-1 record left them clinging to the edge of elimination, and with Flag Dealers and The Diddlers both poised to surpass them, their playoff hopes seemed faint.

First, Flag Dealers had a must-win game against Hard Knocks to potentially improve their record to 5-5, ultimately falling 24-12 and officially ending their season. The pressure then shifted to The Diddlers, who needed a victory against the formidable Mean Machines to leapfrog Les Flagouilleurs with a 5-5 record. But The Diddlers couldn’t rise to the occasion, falling 32-14 in a disappointing finish to their campaign.

As the dust settled, Les Flagouilleurs, who had no control over their fate, emerged victorious in the standings thanks to their competitors. Against all odds, they held on to their playoff spot, proving that sometimes, the most dramatic outcomes don’t require a single snap on the field.

Hard Knocks Seal the Deal

Hard Knocks (6-4) showed up when it mattered most, taking down the Flag Dealers 24-12 in a game with playoff implications for both teams. With their victory, Hard Knocks clinched their spot, pushing Flag Dealers out of contention. A balanced performance on both sides of the ball highlighted their determination, while the Flag Dealers will have to regroup and hope for a better showing next season.

Diddlers Fall Flat Against Mean Machines

In what was a must-win game for The Diddlers (4-6), the Mean Machines (6-2-2) proved too strong, winning convincingly 32-14. The Diddlers needed this win to stay alive in the playoff race but instead watched their season come to an end. For Mean Machines, the victory helped solidify their seeding as they climb to 9th place.

YUL Keep Their Hopes Alive and Secure a Spot

Facing elimination, YUL (5-5) came out swinging against Vidanges FFC (3-7), cruising to a 25-7 win. YUL’s offence delivered under pressure, ensuring their spot in the playoffs. For Vidanges FFC, the loss marked the end of a challenging season where they couldn’t quite play the spoiler role they might have hoped for.

Les Studz and Pack Is Back Battle to a Tie

In a rare and dramatic 18-18 draw, Les Studz (6-3-1) and Pack is Back (7-2-1) showed why both are serious playoff contenders. Pack is Back holds on to the 6th seed, while Les Studz land in 10th. While a win could have improved both teams’ seeding, the tie maintains their momentum heading into the postseason.

Double Dippers Deliver a Statement

The Double Dippers (6-4) didn’t just win; they dominated Airs University (3-7), 51-6. With their playoff lives on the line, the Dippers left no room for doubt, jumping up to 16th place. Airs University, meanwhile, exits the season on a sour note.

Gooners Cruise Into the Postseason

Taking care of business in style, Gooners (6-4) made quick work of Take 2 (0-10), winning 33-2. The Gooners’ playoff hopes were never truly in jeopardy, but they cemented their position in 14th with this victory.

In N’ Out Goes All In

No team had a busier or more critical week than In N’ Out (6-4). With two games on the schedule, they needed back-to-back wins to clinch their spot. They delivered in spectacular fashion, defeating Cavaliers du Rohan 50-19 and WarnaBrother INC 46-0. Their offence was unstoppable, and they jump to 11th place, ensuring they are a team to watch in the playoffs.

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LOOKING AHEAD: PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS

With the playoff bracket set, here are a few storylines to watch:

• Can anyone stop Salt’s n a Pepper?
• Is In N’ Out this year’s Cinderella story?
• Will the tie between Les Studz and Pack is Back come back to haunt their seeding chances?

As the dust settles on the regular season, one thing is clear: the playoffs are shaping up to be a rollercoaster of epic proportions. Buckle up; it’s going to be a wild ride!

Wild Card Wednesday: Breaking Down the Matchups

As the playoffs kick off, the excitement starts with a Wild Card Wednesday offering four matchups that will decide who advances to the Divisional Round. With the top 12 teams enjoying a bye, the pressure is on for the teams ranked 13-20. Here’s what to expect from these high-stakes games:

Hard Knocks vs Pack a Punch

Time: 9:15 PM | Field: Laval Dome [3]

• Hard Knocks (6-4) will look to prove their mettle after a decisive Week 10 win over Flag Dealers. Their defence, faces a tough challenge against Pack a Punch (5-5). Expect a gritty battle as Hard Knocks’ playoff experience clashes with Pack a Punch’s underdog mentality.

Gooners vs YUL

Time: 9:15 PM | Field: Laval Dome [2]

• Gooners (6-4) enter as favourites, but YUL (5-5) is riding high after a season-saving win against Vidanges FFC in Week 10. With YUL’s offence heating up, this could be one of the most exciting games of the night. The Gooners’ ability to contain YUL’s dynamic quarterback will be key.

Ball So Hard University vs Les Flagouilleurs

Time: 9:15 PM | Field: Laval Dome [1]

• Ball So Hard University (6-4) has been a strong contender all season, but they’ll face Les Flagouilleurs (4-5-1) a team that narrowly made the playoffs. Les Flagouilleurs boast one of the division’s most productive offences, with a +118 point differential, despite their sub-.500 record. This matchup could hinge on whether Ball So Hard University can limit big plays.

Double Dippers vs Chomedey Chodes

Time: 10:15 PM | Field: Laval Dome [2]

• The night ends with Double Dippers (6-4) facing Chomedey Chodes (5-5). Double Dippers showcased their playoff readiness with a dominant Week 10 victory, but Chomedey Chodes thrive in clutch moments. This game might come down to turnovers, as both teams are known for taking risks that could either lead to glory or heartbreak.

Player to Watch: Alex Poitras – Les Flagouilleurs’ QB

Alex Poitras has been a highlight reel all season, leading their team with precision passing and the ability to create plays out of nothing. If they can deliver under pressure, they might upset a strong Ball So Hard University squad.

X-Factor: Dome Conditions

Laval Dome is a controlled environment, meaning weather won’t be a factor. However, it’s no secret that domes can get quite chilly at times.

Wild Card Wednesday sets the stage for a dramatic start to the playoffs, where every team is just one win away from advancing to face the top contenders. Expect thrilling finishes, emotional highs and lows, and the relentless pursuit of the championship dream.