Top Race Tightens, Underdogs Rise, and Pat Jerome Shines

Week 8

Week 8 so far has given us thrilling battles across both divisions! In Division 1, a three-horse race for the top spot heats up, with the #1 seed Jamesons (5-1) facing pressure from the Allstars (5-1) and Flag Moi L’sac (4-1). Can the Jamesons maintain their lead, or will one of the other contenders rise to the challenge? Meanwhile, Division 2 presents a different kind of drama. The league’s worst +/- belongs to #NR, who desperately need a turnaround. Can they overcome their defensive woes and climb out of the cellar? In another unexpected twist, the ATH Squad remains winless, but their fight for their first victory adds another layer of intrigue to the already exciting mix. But the spotlight doesn’t just shine on teams. Individual performances are also turning heads. Pat Jerome of the Allstars has been a defensive force, solidifying his position as a key player in their championship aspirations. His stellar first half of the season begs the question: can he continue his dominance and lead them to the ultimate prize? This week, expect tight matches, unexpected upsets, and individual brilliance. So buckle up, Flag Plus fans, because Week 8 is set to be an unforgettable ride! Stay tuned for detailed recaps and analysis as all the drama unfolds.

Weekly Headlines 

ATH Squad losing by 20+ back to back without Jeanslee Alexis 

Already 0-4 ATH Squad has not had many positives this winter season. After being 0-2 with Jeanslee Alexis under center, Jeanslee hasn’t been present their last two games and it showed. Against Maroons and Allstars, two very good division 1 teams, lost by more then two scores. Darren Wiltshire, and Ryth-Jean Giraud stepped in at the helm and unfortunately were not successful as they only scored 38 points in two games. Threw 3 ints and ultimately took another two losses. If Jeanslee is not back for ATH Squad I honestly don’t think they can get a win. 

Pat Jerome leads Div 1 in tackles and INTs 

FPF legend Pat Jerome, the defensive anchor for the Allstars, leads division one in both tackles and INT’s. With 21 tackles and 3 INT’s this sideline to sideline beast has easily been the best defensive player in division one through 5 games and shows no signs of stopping. With his team at 5-1, they currently sit atop the div 1 standings.

#NR Sink Deep: Worst +/- in D2 Haunts 2-3 Start (133 Pts For, 184 Pts Against)

#NR’s defense hemorrhages points, averaging 37 per game and leading to a dismal -51 +/-. The Kenny Baye led defence has been able to cause turnovers as they hold a team total of 8 Ints. But regardless of their ability to create turnovers they still have given up the second most points in division 2. Despite wins against 2HD and Skills Bees, they struggle to stay afloat in D2, currently at 2-3 they hang around the 10th seed. I do believe they can tighten up and climb the standings as their next two games are against teams also with a losing record. 

Week 7 recaps 

Blessed Hold Off Party Crashers in High-Scoring Shootout (47-43)

In a thrilling game that saw both quarterbacks light up the scoreboard, Blessed edged out Party Crashers 47-43, thanks to a late touchdown and a crucial interception in the waning moments. Blessed’s Harripersaud Unstoppable: Stephen Harripersaud put on a passing clinic, completing 27 of 37 passes for 251 yards and a staggering 7 touchdowns. However, he also threw 2 interceptions, keeping Party Crashers in the game. Party Crashers answer back as Frédéric Dupuis wasn’t to be outdone, throwing for 242 yards and 6 touchdowns himself, while leading his team on several scoring drives to keep the game close. The first half was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams trading touchdowns. Blessed started strong with a pair of scores from Harripersaud to Marvin Steinberg, but Party Crashers responded with touchdowns from Dupuis. The half ended with the score tied at 28-28. Blessed regained the lead early in the second half with touchdowns from Harripersaud to Langshaw and Marvin once again. However, Party Crashers refused to give in, scoring touchdowns through Kenny Baye, and a pick-six by Ezechiel Tieide to close the gap to 41-43.

Lots of drama in the closing minutes. With time running out, and just about 6 plays left in the game. Harripersaud found Will Power for a touchdown to extend Blessed’s lead to 47-43. Party Crashers attempted an onside kick, but it was unsuccessful. Blessed ran the clock out to secure the victory. This was a great division 1 game, showcasing the talent of both quarterbacks and the offensive firepower of both teams. Blessed ultimately prevailed, but Party Crashers never gave up and pushed them to the limit. 

Raff’s Div 1 Game of the Week 

Can the KGP Upset the Undefeated Braves?

The stage is set for a colossal clash in Week 8 as the Braves lock horns with KGP in a Division 1 showdown. The Braves, with a surprising 1-2 record are still the clear favourites, but the KGP, hungry to bounce back from a loss last week from Flag Moi L’sac, are determined to pull off a monumental upset. The Braves, one of FPF’s finest, haven’t had their usual start to the season. Granted their 2 losses both came by only one measly point. They still can be a force in division one as their potent offense, led by the dynamic duo of quarterback Jo Maheu and wide receiver JD Chevalier, has shredded defences all season. Their defense has given up more points then usual and im looking for this squad to generate more turnovers as the season progresses. KGP, despite their 2-2 record, possess the talent to challenge any team in the league. Their Phil Cutler and the explosive receiver/rusher  Julien Paiement have been a constant threat. However, their defense has struggled at times, and they’ll need to tighten up if they hope to contain the Braves’ offensive juggernaut. Only one INT and 2 sacks in 4 games is not the best recipe for success. This matchup promises to be an exiting battle. The Braves will be looking to finally get a win streak going, while the KGP will be fighting for their lives as they face one of the toughest teams in FPF. With both teams desperate for victory, I expect a game filled with intensity and high-flying action. Don’t miss this week’s marquee matchup. I predict the Braves to finally shake off their 1 point losses and finally start putting together some wins. Give me Braves 47-34. 

Raff’s Div 2 Game of the week  

Mangoose Aim for Perfection Against Stumbling Stoics

Week 8 in Division 2 throws a curveball as the undefeated Mangoose (4-0) face the struggling Stoics (1-3). Despite the contrasting records, this matchup offers intriguing storylines that could spark an upset or solidify Mangoose’s dominance. So far this season mangoose has been on a Tear. Mangoose have been the talk of the division, led by the red-hot quarterback Nicolas Schaefer. With a jaw-dropping 20 touchdowns and only 2 interceptions, Schaefer has orchestrated a high-octane offense that leaves defences scrambling. Their defense, while not as flashy, has been effective in shutting down opponents and creating opportunities for their offense to shine. Only 82 points against in 4 games. On the other hand, The Stoics find themselves at a crossroads. On the one hand, their 1-3 record and three-game losing streak paint a bleak picture. But their fighting spirit remains unbroken, and they yearn to turn the tide in their favour. Their offence, despite facing potent defences, has shown flashes of brilliance. Chris Rivest also boasts a 20-2 TD-INT ratio and has completed over 65 percent of his passes. Carl Achy has been the Stoics leading receiver with 197 yards and 6 TDs but it should be noted he has played 2 more games then Felix Boutet who is one of the best deep threat receivers in FPF. However, their defence has sputtered, struggling to find consistency and rhythm. Allowing 35 PPG, this gives their offence almost no room for error and has guaranteed that if Rivest and his offence doesn’t put up 40 points they won’t walk away with the W. This game intrigues me as I do believe that the Stoics have they playmakers like Felix Boutet, Jeanslee Alexis ,and Emerson Peterkin they can be one of the best offences of division 2. If those ballers are present, im taking the upset in a close, low scoring affair, Stoics hand Mangoose their first loss 28-26. 

Thanks for tuning I once again and ill be back next week with some more Div 1 & 2 action.