The world has been restored back to its original form!.. I think?

What’s up football knuckleheads! Glad to see the world restored back to its glory form, A.k.a. FLAG IS BACK! My name Is Daniel Lazzara and I’ll be your Division 3 writer this season.. For those of you who are unaware, I’ve been playing flag with FPF for about 9 years now. I’ve always loved how much the media incorporates themselves into this game, through articles, as well as their podcasts (calling the audible).I always wanted to somehow, someway find myself being a part of the show! Luckily for me, after begging Peeze for years to talk about FPF, I finally got the call up! I’m super excited for the opportunity to be covering Division 3, I’ll try my best not to let you guys down.

The topics I will go over would be Division headlines, Game Recaps, Players of the week, and power rankings.. A little piece of advice, take everything you read with a grain of salt. I try to be as transparent as I can while talking about the Pigskin. Some of you might enjoy it, others might want to send me death threats. Who knows.

Personally, I believe Division 3 has some of the most underrated talent this league has to offer! At the same time, I can’t wait to say out loud “Wow, I didn’t see that coming!” and relate it to an upset happening during a Sunday night flag game rather than the past 2 years of our lives.

Without further ado, let’s dive right into it, shall we?

Division Headlines

Coming into this season, I would argue that Sheeeeeeeeeesh is the team to beat. Andrew Langburt has established himself as one of the Division’s best two way players over the past few seasons, and his team only seems to be getting better with the addition of savvy vet Mathieu Lepage.
Jeremy White’s EZW is one of the team’s that might just do the improbable and go all the way. If you don’t have a good rusher, good luck! He will do suicides in that backfield until he finds his man in the endzone (As we saw on the FPF’s Top 10 plays of last season, #10)
Bearskins are on one of my #OnesToWatch list because of all the Talent they have. Do me a favour and do not let these guys fool you. Sure, Vinny Gualano looks like the young buck selling lemonade at the corner, but rest assured Gualano, along with the likes of Marco Bertoldi, Jordan Allard, and Rich Humes, know exactly how to find that whole in your defence and will exploit it.
Junkyard dogs literally got some dogs on that team. Just throw it up and enjoy the show! The Semerjian brothers along with FPF long time Vet Paul Lapierre really make for an interesting squad. If Jason Rossie can play mistake free football, this team will be scary.
Thor’s Hammer is just going to be a real headache for every team they will face. Benjamin McMahon A.K.A. Mr. Benny Wheels as I like to call him, is arguably the fastest player in this division, playing QB. Again, goodluck to ALL rushers! Thor’s Hammer has made some great off season acquisitions with the likes of including Johnathan Lyristis and Anthony Brisebois.
Killa Bees is a team that will never be counted out in any game they play. This theory is based on the fact that Brothers Jean–Cristophe and Laurence Oliver Viens are on the squad. Both of those guys are extreme team players and will do whatever it takes to get the job done. Complete Warriors.
Les Maloudes come into this season with lots of firepower. Qb Anthony Beauchamp–Frezza looks poised at making a deep playoff run. It also helps having stud Wrs like Vincent Morissette who had 4 touchdowns in week 1. WROY candidate?? We shall see!
Stephen Harripersaud’s ‘Blessed’ would also be including in my #OnesToWatch list as they are one of the most sound teams in this division.Off the bat, Kevin Smuda is licking his lips when he sees anyone under 6 feet tall line up in front of him. . Harripersaud’s throwing motion is probably closer to uncle rico than it is to Drew Brees, but don’t kid yourself. If his opponents show up trying to play zone against him, he will Nickel and dime till the final whistle. SIDENOTE: If Harripersaud shows up to the field and he’s wearing sunglasses?? Mind as well start the car because you’re looking at a guy more locked in than Masked Lebron.
Great games coming up this week, be sure to keep tabs on all your fellow FPF frenemies! A couple have caught my eyes, such as
Mangoose vs EZW
Blessed vs Touch It Catch It
Les Gros Coqs vs Sheeeesh
Les Maloudes vs BearSkins
I’m expecting some exciting matchups… Don’t let me down, Fellas!

Game recap

Touch it Catch it (12) vs Junkyard Dogs (34)

This game had all the hype coming into it. Big reason for that would be the build up of waiting months for FPF to return. Take the score aside, this game did not disappoint.

The two teams started off the game slowly, as both teams started the game with a turnover on downs for their first drives. However, it didn’t take long for the gears to start turning.

Sean Semerjian got the game going with the first TD on a 16 yard strike from QB Jason Rossie.This was followed up by a successful 2 point conversation putting Junkyard Dogs up 8-0.

Never to be outmatched, league’s top WR AJ Gomes answered the call by leaving his defenders in the dust. Gomes put his head down, turned on the jets, looked up and the ball fell right into his lap. QB Fred Mallette was unable to find his man for the Extra point, leaving the game at 8-6.

Rossie’s next drive definitely didn’t end the way he wanted too, as TiCi’s (Yes, I made an abbreviation for Touch It Catch it, deal with it) Mallette tracked down an overthrown ball and made an incredible diving INT.

The Veteran QB followed this highlight play by throwing another dime, this time finding FPF’s Top rusher Isiah Allard for the go-ahead score. Another failed convert would leave the game at 12-8. This was looking like it was going to be TiCi’s game to lose.

With only 5 plays left, Allard, who just finished getting a sack and PD on back to back plays, takes a questionable, yet crucial roughing the passer penalty. This gave Junkyard Dogs some hope to gain back momentum before the half, and that is exactly what they did.

Last play of the half from a little past mid field, Rossie clearly made up his mind pre-play that he was going to throw the fade, and boy, was it ever a good decision. Sean Semerjian did what he does best,went up and mossed Mallette the defender.

This was followed up by Lapierre doing things only Paul can do, and that is winning jump balls for 2 point converts.

16-12, Halftime.

It was at this point where watching this game, I began to think “man, this feels like the momentum completely shifted in favour of Junkyard Dogs.” Unfortunately for TiCi, that is exactly what happened. They came out flat to start the second half, and were never really able to get into another groove.

Paul Lapierre started the second half saying “it’s time to make a play”, or at least I think so. The first pass of the second half, was thrown right into the arms of Lapierre.It was evident that Lapierre began understanding what kind of scheme Mallette was trying to throw at him, as he went on to have three (yes, 3) interceptions in the second half and junkyard dogs were able to run away with this one.

It also became obvious that the Rossie-to-Semerjian connection will be one to watch for the rest of the season. Sean went on to have a spectacular day, ending with a 4 TD performance. Not too shabby.

Also a huge shoutout to Hinsley Adams at the rusher position for Junkyard Dogs. Dude was a menace throughout the entire game, finishing with a 4 sack performance himself. If Junkyard can maintain this level of second half defence, it might be a scary matchup to face down the road.

As for Touch it Catch it, they have all the talent needed in order to get the job done. The real question becomes will it too late before they can develop the chemistry needed to compete in this hectic division. We are all aware that you won’t be winning many games scoring 12 points!

Congratulations to the winners, Junkyard Dogs.

Week 1 Players of the week!

So in this segment, I will be highlighting the top 3 Stars from each of the 4 positions; The Qbs, Wrs, Dbs, and of course the ones who hold it down for their team, the Rushers. It’s a shame that most people overlook the rusher position. However, in my eyes, it’s neck and neck with the value a QB brings to the team. Sure the QB position is seen as the most important, which most would argue is factual. Be that as it may, I find it’s usually the rusher’s impact on a game, whether he is able to get to the QB and disrupt him or not, is what really dictates the outcome of games.

Without further ado, here are your Players of the week for Week 1.

Standout QBs

1st Star: Jeremy White

19/24, 215 yards, 79.2% completion percentage, Seven (yes, 7!) Tds, and most importantly took care of the rock leaving that INT column with a big fat ZERO next to it! If he can keep producing 143.6 QB ratings week in week out, we might just be looking at the early leading candidate for QB Of The Year.

2nd star: Alexandre Masseau

FPF debut game, and you come out looking like a young Peyton manning? You gotta be kidding me! 22/27, 243 yards, 6 TDs and a completion percentage of 81.5%. Impressive, to say the least. As for the 2 INTs, let’s try to keep that column clean next week. A little reminder for those unaware, a young P.Manning did throw his fair share of INTs himself, so the comparison works!

3rd star: Andrew Langburt

I’ve known Andrew for quite some time, and I can tell you as good as he played, he’s probably disappointed in himself over this performance. Completing only 55.6% of his throws, Langburt still managed to score 6 Tds, which is obviously impressive on it’s own. I look forward to seeing Andrew show up more often than not on my list of Top Qbs of the week.

Standout Wrs

1st Star: Sean Semerjian

Sean had an incredible performance, and I was lucky enough to witness it live. Man was that ever entertaining! Semerjian Hauled in all 6 of his targets for 80 yards and FOUR TDs! Simply a jump ball freak, letting his basketball skills do most of the work, posting up on dudes and telling his Qb to just throw it up! Watch out, Division 3.

2nd star: Vincent Morissette

Morissette had a strong outing for Les Maloudes, as he caught all 7 balls thrown at him for 80 and FOUR TDs! What is it with defences not realising when a WR has 3 Tds, you should probably start rotating coverage towards him! Great work, Vincent!

3rd Star: Jafar Hassan

I wasn’t there to witness this, but it seems to me that Jafar went into the huddle when his team got to the red zone and said “ Gimme the damn ball!”. Jafar got his name called 4 times, and each time resulted in a TD for Blessed. He finished the day with 21 yards and 4 Tds. Again, defences, guard the hot hand! Or else receivers like Jafar will constantly make them pay. Kudos on the performance, Jafar!

Standout Dbs

1st Star: Paul Lapierre

Known for his exceptional play as a Redzone offensive threat, Paul made his stamp on this game throughout the entire second half, finishing the game with 3 interceptions. All his interceptions came off strictly reading the concept the opposing QB was trying to throw at him and Lapierre making him pay for each of his mistakes. Way to go, Paul!

2nd Star: Mr. Will “I got the” Power

Will is one of FPF’s most underrated hidden talents. I’ve been saying it for years, and love to see the rise of stardom this kid is going through. He finished his day with 5 tackles, and 2 interceptions to help lead the way for a Blessed W. Don’t try that flood concept on him! I’m telling you, you will end up paying for it!

3rd star: Could have be given to Andrew Langburt (2 Ints), but we will share some the glory and hand this one off to his teammate;

Ariel Librati

Librati is a straight up dominant force on the field, and he put it all on display last week with his stellar performance on both sides of the ball. He finished the game with 2 interceptions, and also tallied 3 receiving Tds. Early front runner for 2 way player of the year?? I believe so!

Standout Rushers

1st Star: Hinsley Adams

Adams, one of FPF’s longest tenured rushers, showed why age is just a number, and speed kills. Adams came out the gate firing for his season opener, caping a hard fought win, with FOUR sacks of his own! That is definitely one way to disrupt a football game, get to the quarterback. Worked for the Giants in both their superbowl wins, and worked wonders for Junkyard Dogs last sunday night as well. Keep it up, Hinsley!

2nd Star: Mike Zenobi

Zenobi’s effort was enough to receive 2nd star this week, but unfortunately not enough to overcome his team struggles. Zenobi was able to muster up 2 sacks, that would put him second in the league, at the moment. I respect the grind, Mike! Hard work will always pay off!.

3rd Star: Isaiah Allard

Isiah is arguably FPF’S best rusher, and it’s starting to no longer become a debate. The 6’3 beast made his impact on this game from start to finish. Allard was able to finish the game with only 1 sack and 1 PD. I use the word only, because Allard was inches away from getting nearly 3, maybe 4 sacks. Rest assured that he made his presence felt, as each of those plays resulted in the quarterback throwing the ball away, or to the dirt. That’s exactly the impact every team wishes to get out of their rusher! Someone who can not only disrupt with speed to get to the QB, but more importantly let him know you’re there, each and every play. This can be done by tipping passes, stepping in throwing lanes to disrupt timing, or being in the grill of the QB as they throw (Don’t hit him!!). Nonetheless, keep it doing your thing, Isiah!

These are aspects of a game that can completely flip the script. Might not always show up on the stat sheet, but maybe, just maybe, before Elon Musk releases flying cars in the upcoming years, he helps FPF integrate QB pressures as a noted stat. I’m sure all rushers would be thrilled to hear this!

POWER RANKINGS

Sheeeesh: Athleticism, along with chemistry. Team to beat as of now.
Blessed: Good system, good size, sky’s the limit with these guys.
EZW: Jeremy White could take a bad roster places they need to go. Little heads up, their roster is anything but bad.
Junkyard Dogs: Big time players make big time plays, simple.
Bearskins: Deceptive speed across the board, great communication defensively.
Thor’s Hammer: Point of emphasis needs to be on the defence, Benny Wheels can only do so much.
Killa Bees: New FPF Qbs usually need a couple of games to get their feet wet before getting comfortable in the pocket. Alexandre Masseau throwing for 6 tds really throws that theory out the window.
Les Maloudes: Winning a nail biter is always a great way to start the season. Let’s see if Anthony Beauchamp-Frezza can keep this momentum going.
Les Gros Coqs: Having a speedster like Dom Lefort will constantly cause issues for any defence. Tough to stop.
Mongoose: A mix of talent and football IQ on both sides of the ball, can Schaefer lead them to the promise land?
Silent Ticklers: Talented enough to put up a fight offensively, defence needs work.
Touch it Catch it: A multitude of talent mixed with championship DNA, can Mallette get it together and lead this team?
Speed Academy: Speed isn’t the issue, they need to work together to get some stops on the defensive end! Tough to win games allowing 40…but not impossible!
Lightweight: Are we going to see the resurrection of the one and only Simon Dagenais? Or will I be just as disappointed as not seeing the Tupac hologram during the SB halftime show. I’m not sure if Doug Mckernan is trying to send a message to Simon saying ‘help us’, but going 7 for 21 will tell you all you need to know.
Silent Ticklers: Good mix of young blood and veteran experience on this squad. Will it be enough to overcome 3 pick performances such as the one Jordan Panetta had week 1? We shall see.
Past our prime: You know the ol’ saying don’t judge a book by it’s cover? Well, in this case, the name says it all. 6 INTs for Craig O’Brien to start the year, hopefully we don’t see that again all year…. Hey Kevin! A little input wouldn’t hurt!
Expendables: This wouldn’t come as a surprise to me if this team would jump up a few spots after a solid opener. They have yet to play a game, but the roster tells me there’s too much FPF experience on this squad to lose games. Buy stock, now!
Lynx: Have yet to play a game this season. A couple of new faces, let’s see if they can shock the league.
Oompa Loompas: If you allow 55 it’s already a red flag. What’s concerning to me is the 6 lonely points they put up, major red flag. With that being said, EZW is one of the stronger teams of this division, so it kinda justifies the loss (Not really).

Week 2 schedule.

Time to choose some winners!

I will now go ahead and make some awful picks that people will probably judge me on for the rest of the season. I’m hoping to hit over 60% this week and be reaching 80% by the midway point of the season. However, just like my betting career, this is simply another example of wishful thinking. Enough about me, let’s get into it!

The highlighted team will be my chosen winner.

Here. We. GO!

Past Our Prime vs Oompa Loompas

Expendables vs Killa Bees

Mangoose vs EZW

Junkyard Dogs vs Lightweight

Blessed vs Touch It Catch It

Thor’s Hammer vs Speed Academy

Les Gros Coqs vs Sheeeesh

GOTW** Les Maloudes vs BearSkins

Well, that’s a wrap folks! I hope you all enjoyed killing 5-10 minutes of your life you’ll never get back. I’m hoping I was able to entertain you as much as this league entertains me. The FPF world is such a tight community and I love everything it has to offer. Always remember, games can get competitive (trust me), It’s normal. The most important part is what you’ve been told since you were a child, just go out there and have fun!…

Just kidding, nobody is ever thrilled about losing no matter how much ‘fun’ they say they had. They’re lying to you. Winning heals all wounds. Never let anyone tell you otherwise.

Fpf’s competitive nature is what really stands out from most leagues and I’m pretty sure that’s why everyone keeps coming back for more, signing up for multiple teams, never turning down an offer to sub for a team etc. Ain’t nothing like being told you’re a champion when it’s all set in stone!

Goodluck to everyone, and let’s have an injury free season!

Should you wish to give any feedback, good or bad, don’t hesitate to reach out to me on any social media platform! I can also be reached by email [email protected].

Cheers boys!