BLACKSBURG, VA - Thanks to the play of some fantastic defense, the Ballers improved to 3-1 this afternoon with a 33-3 sloshing of the Victoria Admirals. The Admirals were held in check with just 175.5 yards total as Rexy Grossman posted a season low 57.5% completion rate for just 145 yards.
The Ballers also held them to 30.5 yards rushing on 26 carries, a 1.2 yard per carry average. This added more pressure to Grossman who was hurried 3 times and sacked 4 times, 3 by Speed McLovin' and 1 by DT Mike Flores, as he just couldn't get anything going for the Admirals.
"I was on a mission today and it is safe to say that the mission was a success. We put the pressure on him and made him make mistakes and you see the results of that in a great victory as this train keeps on chugging," DE Speed McLovin'.
With today's performance of 7 tackles and 3 sacks, Speed McLovin' has topped his best season performance of 11 sacks in season #2 with his 10th, 11th and 12th sack today. McLovin' is on pace to break Derek Pacheco's sack record of 29 and if McLovin' keeps at this pace, he could reach the 40's. Derek Pacheco is currently 2nd on the team with 6 sacks.
Another man who is no stranger to the big play is Beast Baily who pulled in only his 2nd interception of the season today but he took it all the way for the score, the 9th Ballers interception for touchdown this season and 12th defensive touchdown over all. This is Baily's 5th career TD and 26th career interception.
"It's nice to be able to kick them while they're down and this touchdown certainly gave us the breathing room that we needed to win this game. There ain't nothing better than returning an interception for a touchdown and we've been having fun doing this all season," CB Beast Baily.
The Ballers offense was no slouch today either as the boys with the ball totaled 387 yards, 120 on the ground and 267 in the air and combined for two scores. Khari Jones completed his 19th touchdown of the season with 5 minutes to go in the 2nd to James Vita for his 2nd touchdown of the season.
Khari is currently on top of the CPL leaderboard with 19 touchdowns and 0 interceptions through the first quarter of the schedule. Much of this can be attributed to the improved play of the offensive line who have only allowed 5 hurries and 3 sacks in the first 4 games and have done a fantastic job protecting the QB.
"It's our job to protect the QB and if we don't do it, we don't win football games. It doesn't get any simpler than that. We've made some improvements in the past few games and its really working well and Khari's staying on his feet and engineering touchdown drives," OT Henry George.
The Ballers better hope that Khari continues to engineer those drives cause they've got two of the toughest matches in their schedule coming up when they face the North Delta Huskies and Jebediah's Oblong Ball club. The Ballers beat the Huskies twice last season with a 41-38 victory and then 38-26 victory in the first round of the playoffs. This will be the first time that the Ballers travel to North Delta and they shouldn't be expecting a very warm welcome after last season's results.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Victoria Admirals Game Top Ten Plays
Here are your top ten plays:
10. Khari finds T Bone wide open for a 24.5 yard gain
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179812
9. Baron Von Gomez forces the fumble on the kickoff and Phuck Mizzou is there to recover it
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3180589
8. On 3rd and 2.5, Jordan Jones is in the backfield to stop the running back for a loss of 3
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3180152
7. Jesse Lumsden pounds the ball in for the .5 yard score and a 27-3 lead
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179950
6. Karl Ayotte breaks to the outside on the pitch and goes long for 34.5 yards
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179002
5. Mario Boomer nails a 57 yarder to go up 33-3
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3180566
4. On 3rd and 4, Speed McLovin' adds his 3rd sack of the game
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3180444
3. On 3rd and 14, Khari goes deep and finds Landon Swifty for a 29.5 yard catch
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179703
2. Ballers get their first TD of the game as Khari Jones connects to James Vita for a 20.5 yard TD score and a 10-3 lead
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179544
1. Beast Baily comes up with a big interception that he takes back to the house for a 17-3 lead
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179625
10. Khari finds T Bone wide open for a 24.5 yard gain
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179812
9. Baron Von Gomez forces the fumble on the kickoff and Phuck Mizzou is there to recover it
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3180589
8. On 3rd and 2.5, Jordan Jones is in the backfield to stop the running back for a loss of 3
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3180152
7. Jesse Lumsden pounds the ball in for the .5 yard score and a 27-3 lead
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179950
6. Karl Ayotte breaks to the outside on the pitch and goes long for 34.5 yards
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179002
5. Mario Boomer nails a 57 yarder to go up 33-3
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3180566
4. On 3rd and 4, Speed McLovin' adds his 3rd sack of the game
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3180444
3. On 3rd and 14, Khari goes deep and finds Landon Swifty for a 29.5 yard catch
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179703
2. Ballers get their first TD of the game as Khari Jones connects to James Vita for a 20.5 yard TD score and a 10-3 lead
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179544
1. Beast Baily comes up with a big interception that he takes back to the house for a 17-3 lead
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=140562&pbp_id=3179625
Saturday, September 27, 2008
Ballers Exorcise Their Demons
After last week's dismal performance against the Yukon Gold Rush, the Ballers didn't need much inspiration to improve on their lacklustre performance. One man in particular was Khari Jones who could only get better after completing a career worst 40% and 94 yards. Khari and company bounced back in what can only be described as a brutal curbstomping of the Fhockey.com Demons.
A team that lost 16-10 to the Yukon Gold Rush and another team that lost by 7 points to each the Huskies and the Oblong Ball Club did not look like the teams that they have been the past few weeks. The Ballers, appeared very energized and having luck on their side, totalled 777 yards and 11 touchdowns. The Demons appeared flat and got lucky in the end to score two touchdowns but were trailing at the end of the 3rd, 70-7, and ended the game with 12.5 yards rushing and 21 points.
Much of today's success was attributed to the uprising of the Ballers receiving corps. Following the departure of Chris Barlow, the WR's knew it was time to put up or shut up and man did they ever put up.
Khari Jones led the charge for the Ballers striking in the first 5 minutes to new TE T Bone. Khari would spread the love around 8 more times to James Vita, Wayne Chrebet, Landon Swifty, Jupp Zupp and Dirk Illicious. In fact, every receiver and tight end got a touchdown as Khari went 25 of 33 for 433.5 yards and 9 touchdowns.
"As a team today, we just feeled it. I could have never expected this kind of result after how good this time played us last season but we're a better team and we proved it today. We're back to playing ball the way we like to play ball and it paid big dividends today," Quarterback Khari Jones.
Not to be outdone, the Ballers rushing game also took off today as well with Karl Ayotte breaking out two big runs, a 71.5 yard touchdown run and another 44 yard run on his way to a 220 yard total day. Jesse Lumsden also chipped in for 113.5 on 14 carries and the two would combine for 333.5 yards on 37 carries for an 8.8 yard per carry average.
The Ballers defense also came to play holding the Demons to 12.5 yards on the ground. They recorded 3 sacks, 2 by Speed McLovin' and 1 by Phuck Mizzou. Rhys Clennon would be the big hero recording back to back interceptions late in the 3rd that would both lead to big TD passes to Jupp Zupp. Baron Von Gomez would score the only Ballers defensive touchdown as he recovered a Silent Earth fumble and returned it 83.5 yards for the score.
The Ballers will host the Victoria Admirals next. The two teams squared off late last year as the Ballers dominated them 36-10. Khari Jones completed 74% of his passes including 4 touchdowns, 3 to former Ballers WR Ryan Betesta. Jesse Lumsden would add in the 5th touchdown and a safety from Big Daddy Hawkeye would complete the scoring. The Ballers defense had a big day holding them to only 243.5 yards of total offense and will look to be doing that again come game time.
A team that lost 16-10 to the Yukon Gold Rush and another team that lost by 7 points to each the Huskies and the Oblong Ball Club did not look like the teams that they have been the past few weeks. The Ballers, appeared very energized and having luck on their side, totalled 777 yards and 11 touchdowns. The Demons appeared flat and got lucky in the end to score two touchdowns but were trailing at the end of the 3rd, 70-7, and ended the game with 12.5 yards rushing and 21 points.
Much of today's success was attributed to the uprising of the Ballers receiving corps. Following the departure of Chris Barlow, the WR's knew it was time to put up or shut up and man did they ever put up.
Khari Jones led the charge for the Ballers striking in the first 5 minutes to new TE T Bone. Khari would spread the love around 8 more times to James Vita, Wayne Chrebet, Landon Swifty, Jupp Zupp and Dirk Illicious. In fact, every receiver and tight end got a touchdown as Khari went 25 of 33 for 433.5 yards and 9 touchdowns.
"As a team today, we just feeled it. I could have never expected this kind of result after how good this time played us last season but we're a better team and we proved it today. We're back to playing ball the way we like to play ball and it paid big dividends today," Quarterback Khari Jones.
Not to be outdone, the Ballers rushing game also took off today as well with Karl Ayotte breaking out two big runs, a 71.5 yard touchdown run and another 44 yard run on his way to a 220 yard total day. Jesse Lumsden also chipped in for 113.5 on 14 carries and the two would combine for 333.5 yards on 37 carries for an 8.8 yard per carry average.
The Ballers defense also came to play holding the Demons to 12.5 yards on the ground. They recorded 3 sacks, 2 by Speed McLovin' and 1 by Phuck Mizzou. Rhys Clennon would be the big hero recording back to back interceptions late in the 3rd that would both lead to big TD passes to Jupp Zupp. Baron Von Gomez would score the only Ballers defensive touchdown as he recovered a Silent Earth fumble and returned it 83.5 yards for the score.
The Ballers will host the Victoria Admirals next. The two teams squared off late last year as the Ballers dominated them 36-10. Khari Jones completed 74% of his passes including 4 touchdowns, 3 to former Ballers WR Ryan Betesta. Jesse Lumsden would add in the 5th touchdown and a safety from Big Daddy Hawkeye would complete the scoring. The Ballers defense had a big day holding them to only 243.5 yards of total offense and will look to be doing that again come game time.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Ballers Fall to Gold Rush Again
BLACKSBURG, VA - Another defensive struggle once again laid the Ballers down to rest, marking the first loss of the season at the hands of the Yukon Gold Rush for the 2nd straight year. A slight improvement over last season, the Ballers managed to put up 10 points in a 16-10 defeat with a field goal by Mario Boomer and a 6.5 yard touchdown strike from Khari Jones to Chris Barlow.
"It's a frustrating loss because we really prepared for this game and thought that we finally had the edge but just got hampered by a solid defense. There were a lot of mistakes all around, balls I overthrew, underthrew, passes getting deflected and dropped and it just added up to us not being able to move the ball effeciently enough to win the game," Quarterback Khari Jones.
The lack of a strong passing attack was truly the story of the game as Khari Jones posted a career low completion percentage of 40.7% completing 11 of 27 passes for 94 yards, 1 score and no interceptions. The running game did manage to get going with Karl Ayotte and Jesse Lumsden combining for 127 yards on 31 carries but two fumbles lost ended any momentum that those two were gaining. Some poor strategy choices also came back to haunt the Ballers as two unsucessful fourth down attempts while near enemy range would prove to be fatal for the Ballers.
"Certainly looking back now, its easy to say that we shouldn't have gone for it and taken the points which I totally agree. It was a hindsight error move on my part with our aggressive strategy. The 4th and 6 attempt was just out of field goal range so I thought it'd be worth the risk, the 4th and half a yard is something we should be able to convert but didn't. And then in the 4th when we went for it and fumbled, that's just bad luck. I've learned from my mistakes and we will take a less aggressive stand in the future. It is important to note though that this aggressive has won us many games so far and lost us very few," Offensive Co-ordinator Ryan Betesta.
While the Ballers offense was having its hands full, the Ballers defense continued its bend but don't break approach as it allowed 432 points but only 16 points on 3 field goals and a 60 yard pass immediately following the Ballers first score. The defense also recorded a sack and Aaron Wilson recorded his 2nd interception in a great showing by this Ballers defense.
The Ballers will travel next to play the Fhockey.com Demons and try to get back on the winning track with an explosive passing attack once again. Wide Receivers Landon Swifty and Wayne Chrebet are intent on stepping up and making sure that this kind of passing attack will not happen again. Last season against the Demons, it was all defense as they only allowed .5 a yard rushing and recorded 5 sacks as the offense did just enough to emerge victorious by a score of 17-3.
"It's a frustrating loss because we really prepared for this game and thought that we finally had the edge but just got hampered by a solid defense. There were a lot of mistakes all around, balls I overthrew, underthrew, passes getting deflected and dropped and it just added up to us not being able to move the ball effeciently enough to win the game," Quarterback Khari Jones.
The lack of a strong passing attack was truly the story of the game as Khari Jones posted a career low completion percentage of 40.7% completing 11 of 27 passes for 94 yards, 1 score and no interceptions. The running game did manage to get going with Karl Ayotte and Jesse Lumsden combining for 127 yards on 31 carries but two fumbles lost ended any momentum that those two were gaining. Some poor strategy choices also came back to haunt the Ballers as two unsucessful fourth down attempts while near enemy range would prove to be fatal for the Ballers.
"Certainly looking back now, its easy to say that we shouldn't have gone for it and taken the points which I totally agree. It was a hindsight error move on my part with our aggressive strategy. The 4th and 6 attempt was just out of field goal range so I thought it'd be worth the risk, the 4th and half a yard is something we should be able to convert but didn't. And then in the 4th when we went for it and fumbled, that's just bad luck. I've learned from my mistakes and we will take a less aggressive stand in the future. It is important to note though that this aggressive has won us many games so far and lost us very few," Offensive Co-ordinator Ryan Betesta.
While the Ballers offense was having its hands full, the Ballers defense continued its bend but don't break approach as it allowed 432 points but only 16 points on 3 field goals and a 60 yard pass immediately following the Ballers first score. The defense also recorded a sack and Aaron Wilson recorded his 2nd interception in a great showing by this Ballers defense.
The Ballers will travel next to play the Fhockey.com Demons and try to get back on the winning track with an explosive passing attack once again. Wide Receivers Landon Swifty and Wayne Chrebet are intent on stepping up and making sure that this kind of passing attack will not happen again. Last season against the Demons, it was all defense as they only allowed .5 a yard rushing and recorded 5 sacks as the offense did just enough to emerge victorious by a score of 17-3.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Ballers Welcome Gold Rush for Home Opener
BLACKSBURG, VA - It's been just over a full season since the last time these two teams met but when the Ballers and Gold Rush take the field later today, there will be no love lost between these former AAA teams.
In last season's defensive struggle, the Gold Rush edged the Ballers out 14-7 in the first Ballers loss in the CPL. This was the lowest score that the Ballers would post all season long, the only time they fell under 17 points and the 2nd lowest combined total points in a game throughout the entire season. The Ballers were held to 205.5 total yards, of which 24 were rushing yards. TD Owens had the only touchdown as he caught a 10.5 yard pass in the first 3 minutes to get the only score of the game for the Ballers. Defenses would step up and each force an interception and the Ballers would record a fumble recovery.
The Ballers are hoping for a different outcome this time around and based on the very successful preseason, with wins over OOTP and Arctic Bay, they have to be feeling like they are in good position to beat the Gold Rush.
"It's going to be a tough match cause it always is when we play Yukon. We haven't beaten them before and its time for that to change. This years team is better than ever before and we're going to give it our all and hopefully walk away with a W." Quarterback Khari Jones.
Last week, the Ballers opened the regular season in dominant fashion, taking on the former Renegade Pirates, the Hudson Bay Baby Seals. The Ballers got it done on all sides of the ball scoring 16 rushing touchdowns, 8 passing touchdowns, 11 punt returns for touchdowns, 8 interceptions returned for touchdowns and 2 fumbles recovered for touchdowns. They also added two field goals as they destroyed the Baby Seals in a rude welcome to the CPL.
As the Ballers prepare for their toughest challenge of the first half of the schedule, its going to be up to the offense to step up and take control of this game. The Gold Rush lost the first game in sloppy fashion, committing no turnovers, having more yards than their opponent and not being able to get the job done as the Jebediah's Oblong Ball Club beat them out 20-16. If the Ballers offense can get rolling, they can put this game out of reach in the first half.
In last season's defensive struggle, the Gold Rush edged the Ballers out 14-7 in the first Ballers loss in the CPL. This was the lowest score that the Ballers would post all season long, the only time they fell under 17 points and the 2nd lowest combined total points in a game throughout the entire season. The Ballers were held to 205.5 total yards, of which 24 were rushing yards. TD Owens had the only touchdown as he caught a 10.5 yard pass in the first 3 minutes to get the only score of the game for the Ballers. Defenses would step up and each force an interception and the Ballers would record a fumble recovery.
The Ballers are hoping for a different outcome this time around and based on the very successful preseason, with wins over OOTP and Arctic Bay, they have to be feeling like they are in good position to beat the Gold Rush.
"It's going to be a tough match cause it always is when we play Yukon. We haven't beaten them before and its time for that to change. This years team is better than ever before and we're going to give it our all and hopefully walk away with a W." Quarterback Khari Jones.
Last week, the Ballers opened the regular season in dominant fashion, taking on the former Renegade Pirates, the Hudson Bay Baby Seals. The Ballers got it done on all sides of the ball scoring 16 rushing touchdowns, 8 passing touchdowns, 11 punt returns for touchdowns, 8 interceptions returned for touchdowns and 2 fumbles recovered for touchdowns. They also added two field goals as they destroyed the Baby Seals in a rude welcome to the CPL.
As the Ballers prepare for their toughest challenge of the first half of the schedule, its going to be up to the offense to step up and take control of this game. The Gold Rush lost the first game in sloppy fashion, committing no turnovers, having more yards than their opponent and not being able to get the job done as the Jebediah's Oblong Ball Club beat them out 20-16. If the Ballers offense can get rolling, they can put this game out of reach in the first half.
Saturday, September 20, 2008
Arctic Bay Yetis Top Ten Plays
10. Wayne Chrebet gets the ball in his hands 3.5 yards short of the goal line on this 21.5 yard catch
9. Jesse Lumsden takes it in for his 2nd score of the game on a 5 yard pitch
8. Beast Baily gets his 3rd interception of the preseason and Fitzgerald's third thrown of the game as we enter the final minute of play
7. Big Gravy stops Tony Carreno in his tracks half a yard short of the first down on this 3rd down conversion attempt
6. Jamarcus Fitzgerald is picked off for the second time in the game as Gordon D'arcy gets in the way of a pass intended for former Baller Ryan Betesta
5. The Yetis attempt the pass on 4th and 1 and Silent Earth picks up where he left off last season, forcing the fumble which Michael Beasley recovers to turn the ball over
4. Derek Pacheco maneuvers around the o-linemen and comes down the middle to sack Jamarcus Fitzgerald
3. Khari finds the endzone for the first time today as he and Wayne Chrebet hook up for a 14 yard score
2. 2nd play of the game and Jamarcus Fitzgerald is picked off by Joe Gott deep in Yetis territory. This is his 2nd interception of the preseason
1. Jesse Lumsden breaks down the middle of the field and jukes his way to a 62.5 yard touchdown run to put the Ballers up 12-3
9. Jesse Lumsden takes it in for his 2nd score of the game on a 5 yard pitch
8. Beast Baily gets his 3rd interception of the preseason and Fitzgerald's third thrown of the game as we enter the final minute of play
7. Big Gravy stops Tony Carreno in his tracks half a yard short of the first down on this 3rd down conversion attempt
6. Jamarcus Fitzgerald is picked off for the second time in the game as Gordon D'arcy gets in the way of a pass intended for former Baller Ryan Betesta
5. The Yetis attempt the pass on 4th and 1 and Silent Earth picks up where he left off last season, forcing the fumble which Michael Beasley recovers to turn the ball over
4. Derek Pacheco maneuvers around the o-linemen and comes down the middle to sack Jamarcus Fitzgerald
3. Khari finds the endzone for the first time today as he and Wayne Chrebet hook up for a 14 yard score
2. 2nd play of the game and Jamarcus Fitzgerald is picked off by Joe Gott deep in Yetis territory. This is his 2nd interception of the preseason
1. Jesse Lumsden breaks down the middle of the field and jukes his way to a 62.5 yard touchdown run to put the Ballers up 12-3
Season 5 Preview - This is Home Now
“THIS IS HOME NOW”
Written by Joe Pancake
For 5 former Mt. Oread Hawk Stars, from the middle of a dark cloud came a ray of light from a most unexpected source…
In the Beginning
“There we were, just a bunch of (guys) on the same squad competing to become the best in Canada AAA,” Ballers DT McClinton James remembered of his former team. The Mt. Oread Hawk Stars were an upstart team full of Jayhawks just trying to make a name in the Canadian AAA League. “It was great to play with that group…I felt connected to the fans and city. I even had a 75 foot stretch of freeway named after me,” explained Ballers LB Baron Von Gomez.
The team started to take shape towards the middle of Season 1, a year in which they just missed out on the playoffs. However, the team showed progress as time went on, as Ballers DT Big Gravy recalled. “We had a decent team, one that got even better in seasons two and three.” They would go on to make the playoffs the next two seasons, going 24-8 in the regular season (including one win over Blacksburg), and they were also able to win a playoff game in that time.
From the outside looking in, the Hawk Stars looked like a possible contender for a Canadian AAA Conference Championship, but on the inside, the players knew different. “There were some issues with communication…and we soon had problems with the owner going AWOL,” claimed Gravy. “Our original GM improved things…but he too was absent far too often.” After a couple of devastating playoff losses, the Hawk Stars started to fall apart, despite numerous efforts by players to keep the team together. “The guys that wanted to succeed were great…but there were just too many guys that didn’t want to put in the time,” said Ballers RG Joe Pancake.
With the start of Season 4 Gravy (and others) felt that “things were looking up,” as the Hawk Stars entered their first full season with new Offensive Coordinator/GM flaredog and new Defensive Coordinator beef76863. Despite the renewed excitement, as Gravy best put it, “the bottom was about to fall out.”
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That Fateful Day
On August 17th, midway through the 4th Season following a loss to long-time conference foe Thunder Bay, the Hawk Stars were sold to a new owner. “It seemed like a mistake or a misunderstanding at first, especially since it happened with no warning at all,” recalled Von Gomez when referring to the teams change in ownership. While the Hawk Stars hadn’t started the season off as they had hoped, the plans were in place to turn things around, but just as some of the team was rededicating themselves, the proverbial rug was pulled out from under them. “I felt like we…were finally starting to hit our stride in mid year when the sale hit,” said James. “It was very easily a Championship that could’ve been ours for the taking.”
“We were fighting some frustration with the rule changes, but no one was expecting the team to be sold,” said Gravy. Joe Pancake shared in his disappointment. “It was a bummer. We tried to keep the core team intact, but to have it all dissipate like that, it hurt.”
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Now What?
It didn’t take long for the Hawk Stars to realize they were in trouble once they had been sold. “I expected the new owner to come in and blow everyone out or make an impassioned plea for everyone to stay. I never thought (he) would buy the team and ignore it completely,” Gravy said of the experience. Their new owner could not be contacted and having recently been re-signed to new contracts, the future did not look too bright. “It was pretty clear the team would fall apart…(it) was actually worse and faster than I imagined though,” Von Gomez recalled.
For some players, the future was uncertain, as Joe Pancake related, “I thought my career might be over. I just wasn’t sure…it would be better elsewhere. I didn’t want to go through the same routine.” Ballers DE Phuck Mizzou felt much the same way. “At that point I figured ol’ Phuck Mizzou would hang up the cleats,” he explained. For others though, it simply meant cutting back on things while waiting to see what was in store for them. “It did lead to my having to…auction off my Caddy and my Rolls,” joked James, “but I was able to keep my Porsche.”
Their only hope was in the hands of their most active GM, flaredog (who has, for now, resigned all GM duties to focus on his duties as an agent to a growing clientele, which includes James). “At that point, it became about…trying to make deals to get guys off the team. I liked (them) all, and so I wanted to find ways to get them where they needed to go.”
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If You Can’t Beat Them…
Little did Gravy, James, Pancake, Von Gomez, and Mizzou know who would come calling. Well, James jokingly expected it. “I would have been surprised if there was no interest – I mean, I practically lived in their backfield for (those) 3 seasons.” The others, though, were quick to admit they were caught off guard when they realized that the Ballers, their former rivals, were interested in their services.
The next step was deciding whether they could put past differences behind to play for their former rivals. Over their three seasons in the same league, the Ballers and Hawk Stars squared off three times, with the Ballers winning two of the three (while maintaining a 38-35 scoring advantage). However, while the rivalry brewed, another thing was building behind the scenes…respect.
“When you see a team run through your Conference 16-0, it tells you that they’re a well prepared bunch,” claimed Pancake. He wasn’t the only one with glowing reviews of what had been going on in Blacksburg. “I like how Blacksburg improved every year,” Von Gomez explained. Gravy also chimed in, “Although we fought hard against each other, there was obviously respect for each other.” As for James perspective, who chuckles as he remembers his thoughts on his new owner and coaches, “KB is cool, and Redskins is a nice dude, but I’m not sure about Betesta. In all seriousness though, there was no hesitation… Blacksburg has been and will always be a class organization.”
Of course, Blacksburg’s other draw was the opportunity to play in Canada Pro. While all 5 former Hawk Stars had other offers, the prospect of playing with the elite teams of Canada became a big draw. According to Gravy, he “had another offer…where his experience would have put (him) at a definite advantage, but the chance to play in the CPL (for Blacksburg)…was too good to pass up.”
Another reason for choosing Blacksburg came from the players’ desire to keep some familiar faces around. “It’s good to have some of the old guys around,” said Mizzou. “Makes me feel more at home.” Especially for the interior duo of James and Gravy, who built quite the chemistry while playing together at Mt. Oread. According to James, “It came down to Blacksburg and Khodumodumo’s Revenge (where two of flaredog’s clients already play)…I presented both options to Gravy, and he said he’d like to stick with the Mt. Oread guys.”
After being starved for cash at Mt. Oread, the amount of money the Ballers were willing to offer was a final attraction. “The reached out and threw a mountain of cash at me,” claimed Von Gomez, who was “soaking his toe in Cristal” as we spoke. “It was definitely nice to not have to worry about how I was going to feed my kids,” said Pancake, tongue-in-cheek.
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Fitting In
As rivalries go, there are always two sides, and such was the case with Blacksburg and Mt. Oread. Not only did the Hawk Stars have to make the decision to play for Blacksburg, they also wondered how they would be accepted by the Ballers players and fans. However, they soon found out that there would be no resentment from their new teammates, as everyone had the same goal in mind…a CPL Championship. “I feel like they welcomed me with open arms,” Pancake recalls of his first practice with his new teammates. He wasn’t the only one overwhelmed upon attending a Ballers practice. “It was quite obvious why guys like Khari, Jess, Bricky, Speed and the Micheals (Beasley and Silver) have been so successful,” claims James.
Similarly, the Hawk Stars have found the management and coaches to be exceptional. “It’s great how active the team is…(Everyone) is serious about winning at a high level,” said Von Gomez. “Management makes moves to improve the team.” Gravy has also been impressed. “The GM’s are excellent, with solid game plans and strong communication with the players.”
Once the new Ballers got settled in, they were bound and determined to make an impact. James, always the jokester had this to say about the impact the Hawk Stars had for Blacksburg: “Without us, there’s no telling how bad this team would be. Just kidding,” he added, claiming that he “really thinks that Blacksburg was an excellent team before (they) got here.” He does think the addition of the Hawk Stars “might have helped push Blacksburg into that home playoff game.” Von Gomez shared similar sentiments. “Mt. Oread’s strength was always defense, and the guys who came over have been instant impact types who have made a really good Blacksburg defense even better.”
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What the Future Holds
As the Ballers head into Season 5, the former Hawk Stars don’t hold back on what they feel can be accomplished in their first full season and beyond with Blacksburg. “I think the future for Blacksburg is very bright,” claimed Pancake. “”I really think there’s a lot of championship potential with this team,” exuded James, and Gravy was quick to add, “I see Blacksburg as a top-tier team in the CPL Western Conference.” “I see a CPL Championship and Phuck Mizzou chilling in a hot tub filled with Cristal and Dom Perignon while several women of questionable integrity perform acts on him that would get them stoned in the mid-east,” claimed Mizzou. Gravy, never one to avoid controversy, made no qualms as to how he would like to see it shape out either. “I’d like to see us in the Mountie Bowl soon, knocking off the Yetis and giving all the Eastern Conference haters a big middle finger.”
“We’ll always have Hawk Stars in us,” claims Pancake, “but what we do from here on out will be for the benefit of the Ballers. This is home now.”
Written by Joe Pancake
For 5 former Mt. Oread Hawk Stars, from the middle of a dark cloud came a ray of light from a most unexpected source…
In the Beginning
“There we were, just a bunch of (guys) on the same squad competing to become the best in Canada AAA,” Ballers DT McClinton James remembered of his former team. The Mt. Oread Hawk Stars were an upstart team full of Jayhawks just trying to make a name in the Canadian AAA League. “It was great to play with that group…I felt connected to the fans and city. I even had a 75 foot stretch of freeway named after me,” explained Ballers LB Baron Von Gomez.
The team started to take shape towards the middle of Season 1, a year in which they just missed out on the playoffs. However, the team showed progress as time went on, as Ballers DT Big Gravy recalled. “We had a decent team, one that got even better in seasons two and three.” They would go on to make the playoffs the next two seasons, going 24-8 in the regular season (including one win over Blacksburg), and they were also able to win a playoff game in that time.
From the outside looking in, the Hawk Stars looked like a possible contender for a Canadian AAA Conference Championship, but on the inside, the players knew different. “There were some issues with communication…and we soon had problems with the owner going AWOL,” claimed Gravy. “Our original GM improved things…but he too was absent far too often.” After a couple of devastating playoff losses, the Hawk Stars started to fall apart, despite numerous efforts by players to keep the team together. “The guys that wanted to succeed were great…but there were just too many guys that didn’t want to put in the time,” said Ballers RG Joe Pancake.
With the start of Season 4 Gravy (and others) felt that “things were looking up,” as the Hawk Stars entered their first full season with new Offensive Coordinator/GM flaredog and new Defensive Coordinator beef76863. Despite the renewed excitement, as Gravy best put it, “the bottom was about to fall out.”
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That Fateful Day
On August 17th, midway through the 4th Season following a loss to long-time conference foe Thunder Bay, the Hawk Stars were sold to a new owner. “It seemed like a mistake or a misunderstanding at first, especially since it happened with no warning at all,” recalled Von Gomez when referring to the teams change in ownership. While the Hawk Stars hadn’t started the season off as they had hoped, the plans were in place to turn things around, but just as some of the team was rededicating themselves, the proverbial rug was pulled out from under them. “I felt like we…were finally starting to hit our stride in mid year when the sale hit,” said James. “It was very easily a Championship that could’ve been ours for the taking.”
“We were fighting some frustration with the rule changes, but no one was expecting the team to be sold,” said Gravy. Joe Pancake shared in his disappointment. “It was a bummer. We tried to keep the core team intact, but to have it all dissipate like that, it hurt.”
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Now What?
It didn’t take long for the Hawk Stars to realize they were in trouble once they had been sold. “I expected the new owner to come in and blow everyone out or make an impassioned plea for everyone to stay. I never thought (he) would buy the team and ignore it completely,” Gravy said of the experience. Their new owner could not be contacted and having recently been re-signed to new contracts, the future did not look too bright. “It was pretty clear the team would fall apart…(it) was actually worse and faster than I imagined though,” Von Gomez recalled.
For some players, the future was uncertain, as Joe Pancake related, “I thought my career might be over. I just wasn’t sure…it would be better elsewhere. I didn’t want to go through the same routine.” Ballers DE Phuck Mizzou felt much the same way. “At that point I figured ol’ Phuck Mizzou would hang up the cleats,” he explained. For others though, it simply meant cutting back on things while waiting to see what was in store for them. “It did lead to my having to…auction off my Caddy and my Rolls,” joked James, “but I was able to keep my Porsche.”
Their only hope was in the hands of their most active GM, flaredog (who has, for now, resigned all GM duties to focus on his duties as an agent to a growing clientele, which includes James). “At that point, it became about…trying to make deals to get guys off the team. I liked (them) all, and so I wanted to find ways to get them where they needed to go.”
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If You Can’t Beat Them…
Little did Gravy, James, Pancake, Von Gomez, and Mizzou know who would come calling. Well, James jokingly expected it. “I would have been surprised if there was no interest – I mean, I practically lived in their backfield for (those) 3 seasons.” The others, though, were quick to admit they were caught off guard when they realized that the Ballers, their former rivals, were interested in their services.
The next step was deciding whether they could put past differences behind to play for their former rivals. Over their three seasons in the same league, the Ballers and Hawk Stars squared off three times, with the Ballers winning two of the three (while maintaining a 38-35 scoring advantage). However, while the rivalry brewed, another thing was building behind the scenes…respect.
“When you see a team run through your Conference 16-0, it tells you that they’re a well prepared bunch,” claimed Pancake. He wasn’t the only one with glowing reviews of what had been going on in Blacksburg. “I like how Blacksburg improved every year,” Von Gomez explained. Gravy also chimed in, “Although we fought hard against each other, there was obviously respect for each other.” As for James perspective, who chuckles as he remembers his thoughts on his new owner and coaches, “KB is cool, and Redskins is a nice dude, but I’m not sure about Betesta. In all seriousness though, there was no hesitation… Blacksburg has been and will always be a class organization.”
Of course, Blacksburg’s other draw was the opportunity to play in Canada Pro. While all 5 former Hawk Stars had other offers, the prospect of playing with the elite teams of Canada became a big draw. According to Gravy, he “had another offer…where his experience would have put (him) at a definite advantage, but the chance to play in the CPL (for Blacksburg)…was too good to pass up.”
Another reason for choosing Blacksburg came from the players’ desire to keep some familiar faces around. “It’s good to have some of the old guys around,” said Mizzou. “Makes me feel more at home.” Especially for the interior duo of James and Gravy, who built quite the chemistry while playing together at Mt. Oread. According to James, “It came down to Blacksburg and Khodumodumo’s Revenge (where two of flaredog’s clients already play)…I presented both options to Gravy, and he said he’d like to stick with the Mt. Oread guys.”
After being starved for cash at Mt. Oread, the amount of money the Ballers were willing to offer was a final attraction. “The reached out and threw a mountain of cash at me,” claimed Von Gomez, who was “soaking his toe in Cristal” as we spoke. “It was definitely nice to not have to worry about how I was going to feed my kids,” said Pancake, tongue-in-cheek.
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Fitting In
As rivalries go, there are always two sides, and such was the case with Blacksburg and Mt. Oread. Not only did the Hawk Stars have to make the decision to play for Blacksburg, they also wondered how they would be accepted by the Ballers players and fans. However, they soon found out that there would be no resentment from their new teammates, as everyone had the same goal in mind…a CPL Championship. “I feel like they welcomed me with open arms,” Pancake recalls of his first practice with his new teammates. He wasn’t the only one overwhelmed upon attending a Ballers practice. “It was quite obvious why guys like Khari, Jess, Bricky, Speed and the Micheals (Beasley and Silver) have been so successful,” claims James.
Similarly, the Hawk Stars have found the management and coaches to be exceptional. “It’s great how active the team is…(Everyone) is serious about winning at a high level,” said Von Gomez. “Management makes moves to improve the team.” Gravy has also been impressed. “The GM’s are excellent, with solid game plans and strong communication with the players.”
Once the new Ballers got settled in, they were bound and determined to make an impact. James, always the jokester had this to say about the impact the Hawk Stars had for Blacksburg: “Without us, there’s no telling how bad this team would be. Just kidding,” he added, claiming that he “really thinks that Blacksburg was an excellent team before (they) got here.” He does think the addition of the Hawk Stars “might have helped push Blacksburg into that home playoff game.” Von Gomez shared similar sentiments. “Mt. Oread’s strength was always defense, and the guys who came over have been instant impact types who have made a really good Blacksburg defense even better.”
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What the Future Holds
As the Ballers head into Season 5, the former Hawk Stars don’t hold back on what they feel can be accomplished in their first full season and beyond with Blacksburg. “I think the future for Blacksburg is very bright,” claimed Pancake. “”I really think there’s a lot of championship potential with this team,” exuded James, and Gravy was quick to add, “I see Blacksburg as a top-tier team in the CPL Western Conference.” “I see a CPL Championship and Phuck Mizzou chilling in a hot tub filled with Cristal and Dom Perignon while several women of questionable integrity perform acts on him that would get them stoned in the mid-east,” claimed Mizzou. Gravy, never one to avoid controversy, made no qualms as to how he would like to see it shape out either. “I’d like to see us in the Mountie Bowl soon, knocking off the Yetis and giving all the Eastern Conference haters a big middle finger.”
“We’ll always have Hawk Stars in us,” claims Pancake, “but what we do from here on out will be for the benefit of the Ballers. This is home now.”
Season 5 Preview - Dearly Departed
- The biggest name leaving us this offseason is obviously wide receiver Ryan Betesta who has been traded to the Yetis for CB Rhys Clennon. Betesta was the staple of this receiving team bringing in 222 catches for 2,920 yards and 25 touchdowns in the regular season alone. Betesta also had 44 catches in the palyoffs for 627.5 yards and 4 touchdowns. Betesta holds many records for receiving that may stand the test of time.
- Tight End BJ has left the team to go search other options and has gone to Europe to play for the Rotterdam Harbourmasters. BJ played the last two seasons in Blacksburg with 60 catches in season 3 for 506.5 yards and 4 touchdowns but only got 15 in season 4 with the addition of Dirk Illicious.
- Cornerback Mr McKelvin returned back to the Polynesian Swashbucklers. Mr McKelvin only recorded 2 interceptions but had one of them for a touchdown and forced a fumble.
- Free Safety Bill Clinton has left the team and flown to Europe to play for the Prague Monarchs. Clinton has been with the Ballers since season 1 and it was sad to see him go. Clinton recorded 1 interception while he was here with 3 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery for a touchdown. Clinton also had 87 tackles and 12 pass deflections.
- Johnathan Evans was exchanged in a trade for the return of Lawrence Julius Taylor. Evans only played the one season in Blacksburg and recorded 2 interceptions and 15 pass deflections.
- Sev Sheppard finally got his starting role as he jumped down to the USA BBB #15 to join the Caprica Buccaneers. Sev Sheppard joined the Ballers in season 1 and played 53 regular season games with the Ballers and 8 playoff games recording a total of 170 tackles, 3 forced fumbles and 23 pass deflections during his tenure here.
- Tight End BJ has left the team to go search other options and has gone to Europe to play for the Rotterdam Harbourmasters. BJ played the last two seasons in Blacksburg with 60 catches in season 3 for 506.5 yards and 4 touchdowns but only got 15 in season 4 with the addition of Dirk Illicious.
- Cornerback Mr McKelvin returned back to the Polynesian Swashbucklers. Mr McKelvin only recorded 2 interceptions but had one of them for a touchdown and forced a fumble.
- Free Safety Bill Clinton has left the team and flown to Europe to play for the Prague Monarchs. Clinton has been with the Ballers since season 1 and it was sad to see him go. Clinton recorded 1 interception while he was here with 3 forced fumbles and 1 fumble recovery for a touchdown. Clinton also had 87 tackles and 12 pass deflections.
- Johnathan Evans was exchanged in a trade for the return of Lawrence Julius Taylor. Evans only played the one season in Blacksburg and recorded 2 interceptions and 15 pass deflections.
- Sev Sheppard finally got his starting role as he jumped down to the USA BBB #15 to join the Caprica Buccaneers. Sev Sheppard joined the Ballers in season 1 and played 53 regular season games with the Ballers and 8 playoff games recording a total of 170 tackles, 3 forced fumbles and 23 pass deflections during his tenure here.
Season 5 Preview - Big Shoes to Fill
Who would've thought that wrongfully predicting a victory would be what does Troy Westwood in?!
After years of agonizing fans but still overcoming adversity and performing on a regular basis, Troy Westwood bid fairwell to the fans and was replaced by former Nigerian Nightmares kicker. The whole fiasco started before the Drinkin' Hellraisers playoff game when Troy Westwood predicted a Ballers victory hoping to spark the team up after the last time these two teams met in the playoffs and Westwood's missed field ended up costing Blacksburg the game. A dispute between Westwood and owner Mike following the game led to Mario Boomer being called in for a kickoff contest of sorts. On a windy afternoon in Blacksburg, Boomer faired much better than his counterpart and Troy Westwood was let go to be replaced by Boomer.
A comparision of the two's stats:
Troy Westwood - 128/156 field goals, 13/21 50+ long field goals, 218/230 XP's and 16 tackles (League Leader in Season 3)
Mario Boomer - 93/124 field goals, 9/15 50+ long field goals, 213/230 XP's and 8 tackles
Boomer will certainly have his hands full when he comes to Blacksburg and takes over the kicking duties from the Ballers record holder in all kicking categories. Here are a look at some of the highlights of Troy Westwood's career:
Season 1, Week 9 - 3:10 into the game against Phoenixville Kings and Troy Westwood nails a 25 yarder for his first of many field goals as a Baller.
Season 1, Week 13 - 5:30 into the game against Sudbury Spurs and Troy Westwood kicks the ball off and the returner fumbles the ball and Troy Westwood recovers for his only fumble recovery.
Season 1, Week 14 - With 2 miutes remaining in overtime, Troy Westwood nails a 36.5 yard field goal to win the game against the Hawk Stars.
Season 1, Week 17 - First round playoff game against Drinkin', Troy Westwood misses a 20 yard field goal half way through the first, Ballers lose 17-16.
Season 2, Week 4 - Troy goes 6 for 7 and makes a new Ballers record for field goals in a game as the Ballers shutout the Abbotsford Miners 25-0
Season 2, Week 15 - Troy nails his first field goal over 50 yards as the Ballers beat TSW 20-16
Season 3, Week 2 - Troy breaks his record going 8 for 8 as the Ballers beat TSW 38-3
Season 3, Week 12 to 14 - Troy has 3 weeks in a row going 6 for 6.
Season 3, Week 16 to 19 - Troy matches his record of 8 for 8 and continues his streak going into the playoffs going 6 for 6, 5 for 5 and 2 for 2 in the conference finals. The biggest one being an overtime 55.5 yard field goal against the Forumopolis Fighting Llamas to send the Ballers to the conference finals.
Season 4, Week 15 - North Delta Huskies tie the game up to send it to overtime and Troy Westwood nails a 30.5 yard field goal to end the game and give the ballers the victory.
Its been an amazing ride for Troy Westwood who will be forever missed as a Baller. Westwood landed as a free agent for the Detroit Demon Lions but they traded him away to the Inland Empire Dirtballs where they hope he will make an impact but whether or not he does, he will always leave big shoes to fill in Blacksburg.
After years of agonizing fans but still overcoming adversity and performing on a regular basis, Troy Westwood bid fairwell to the fans and was replaced by former Nigerian Nightmares kicker. The whole fiasco started before the Drinkin' Hellraisers playoff game when Troy Westwood predicted a Ballers victory hoping to spark the team up after the last time these two teams met in the playoffs and Westwood's missed field ended up costing Blacksburg the game. A dispute between Westwood and owner Mike following the game led to Mario Boomer being called in for a kickoff contest of sorts. On a windy afternoon in Blacksburg, Boomer faired much better than his counterpart and Troy Westwood was let go to be replaced by Boomer.
A comparision of the two's stats:
Troy Westwood - 128/156 field goals, 13/21 50+ long field goals, 218/230 XP's and 16 tackles (League Leader in Season 3)
Mario Boomer - 93/124 field goals, 9/15 50+ long field goals, 213/230 XP's and 8 tackles
Boomer will certainly have his hands full when he comes to Blacksburg and takes over the kicking duties from the Ballers record holder in all kicking categories. Here are a look at some of the highlights of Troy Westwood's career:
Season 1, Week 9 - 3:10 into the game against Phoenixville Kings and Troy Westwood nails a 25 yarder for his first of many field goals as a Baller.
Season 1, Week 13 - 5:30 into the game against Sudbury Spurs and Troy Westwood kicks the ball off and the returner fumbles the ball and Troy Westwood recovers for his only fumble recovery.
Season 1, Week 14 - With 2 miutes remaining in overtime, Troy Westwood nails a 36.5 yard field goal to win the game against the Hawk Stars.
Season 1, Week 17 - First round playoff game against Drinkin', Troy Westwood misses a 20 yard field goal half way through the first, Ballers lose 17-16.
Season 2, Week 4 - Troy goes 6 for 7 and makes a new Ballers record for field goals in a game as the Ballers shutout the Abbotsford Miners 25-0
Season 2, Week 15 - Troy nails his first field goal over 50 yards as the Ballers beat TSW 20-16
Season 3, Week 2 - Troy breaks his record going 8 for 8 as the Ballers beat TSW 38-3
Season 3, Week 12 to 14 - Troy has 3 weeks in a row going 6 for 6.
Season 3, Week 16 to 19 - Troy matches his record of 8 for 8 and continues his streak going into the playoffs going 6 for 6, 5 for 5 and 2 for 2 in the conference finals. The biggest one being an overtime 55.5 yard field goal against the Forumopolis Fighting Llamas to send the Ballers to the conference finals.
Season 4, Week 15 - North Delta Huskies tie the game up to send it to overtime and Troy Westwood nails a 30.5 yard field goal to end the game and give the ballers the victory.
Its been an amazing ride for Troy Westwood who will be forever missed as a Baller. Westwood landed as a free agent for the Detroit Demon Lions but they traded him away to the Inland Empire Dirtballs where they hope he will make an impact but whether or not he does, he will always leave big shoes to fill in Blacksburg.
Season 5 Preview - Behind the Numbers
Behind the Numbers
Written by Joe Pancake
Amidst all the fervor of touchdowns, receptions and yardage, sacks, tackles and interceptions, there remain the unsung heroes whose daily work still goes unnoticed…
The Blacksburg Ballers Offensive Line is made up of a bunch of guys that enjoy their job, despite being overlooked time and again. And if you were to ask them, they are quick to point out that they wouldn’t have it any other way. As Center Samual Bonecrasher describes it, “Not everybody can be a high scoring touchdown guy on the field…There need to be hard working men on the field to…block for the guys who score.” And fellow Center, Ricky Bonebreaker echoes those sentiments, claiming “publicity is not my thing.” According to him, there is “no better feeling than to smash some little guys and see Khari (Jones, Ballers Quarterback) throwing a superbomb.” Ballers Tackle Josh Pushman sees it much the same way. “In the end, the only one I have to prove anything for is myself…and maybe my ma',” he chuckled, “so to me not getting credited for the dirty work is not a problem.”
While the league may disrespect the Offensive Line positions, the guys working in the trenches feel as though most of their teammates know their value to the team. “I feel though the team appreciates us…Khari is quick to point out the line did a great job when he has a good passing day,” explains Tackle Fatty McMuffin. McMuffin wasn’t the only one to single out Jones when referencing respect garnered from teammates. “We are long time buddies. We joined the Ballers at the same time. As a player he is really gifted and as a friend indispensible,” says Bonebreaker.
While they know their teammates respect them, McMuffin does feel that “sometimes (the Offensive Line) gets overlooked in the running game.” He quantifies this by stating, “I wouldn’t call it disrespect, just not real close with the Running Backs.” Hank Hitch, a Guard for the Ballers and self proclaimed ‘biggest piece of lard on the line,’ metaphorically explains, “as long as those little leprechauns share the pot of gold when they hit paydirt, we are fine.” “Besides, they know if they misbehave then perhaps we just let a linebacker through as punishment,” he says with a wink.
However, their most important camaraderie is that which they share with each other. “It’s great. Everyone knows what has to be done in order for our crative guys to do their thing,” explains Pushman. “A lot of new faces since the start of Season 4…so having an offseason to spend together in the weight room and (on the) training table should really help us gel,” claims McMuffin, who along with Bonebreaker, Hitch, and Guards Joe Kinney and Gin Rummey have spent their entire career with Blacksburg and are entering their 4th full seasons with the team. Meanwhile, Bonecrasher and Tackle Von Tierre are entering their 3rd full seasons. The rest of the Offensvie Line is made up of 2nd year Tackles, Pushman and Henry George, along with Tackle Joe Pancake and Guard Topher Scott who will be in their first full seasons as Ballers.
There is much more to an Offensive Line’s unity than simply playing together though. Outside of games and practice, the Ballers Offensive Linemen try to stay in touch and get to know each other as much as possible. “Who would’ve imagined that Joe Pancake and I would have our love for making the little nice cross-stitches in common,” asks Hitch. “Bricky and I have had our bridge club for a long time and we have great participation during our linemen poetry evenings,” he explains.
While other positions have stats that speak for themselves, one must dig a little deeper to determine the success of an Offensive Line. “Why can’t the statsmakers appreciate the finesr side of our work?” Hitch wonders. “I would love to see that I give up no hurries, not just ‘Yay, great, I put that NT on his backside, again.’” When one does dig though, they’ll find that the Offensive Line is becoming an increasingly strong part of an increasingly strong team. While the sacks allowed did increase last year for the first time, the yards per carry of the running backs has increased each year, along with the number of rushing touchdowns, and you can expect those numbers to continue improving through Season 5. “With the midseason and offseason upgrades, I really expect big things from the O-Line,” claims McMuffin.
Written by Joe Pancake
Amidst all the fervor of touchdowns, receptions and yardage, sacks, tackles and interceptions, there remain the unsung heroes whose daily work still goes unnoticed…
The Blacksburg Ballers Offensive Line is made up of a bunch of guys that enjoy their job, despite being overlooked time and again. And if you were to ask them, they are quick to point out that they wouldn’t have it any other way. As Center Samual Bonecrasher describes it, “Not everybody can be a high scoring touchdown guy on the field…There need to be hard working men on the field to…block for the guys who score.” And fellow Center, Ricky Bonebreaker echoes those sentiments, claiming “publicity is not my thing.” According to him, there is “no better feeling than to smash some little guys and see Khari (Jones, Ballers Quarterback) throwing a superbomb.” Ballers Tackle Josh Pushman sees it much the same way. “In the end, the only one I have to prove anything for is myself…and maybe my ma',” he chuckled, “so to me not getting credited for the dirty work is not a problem.”
While the league may disrespect the Offensive Line positions, the guys working in the trenches feel as though most of their teammates know their value to the team. “I feel though the team appreciates us…Khari is quick to point out the line did a great job when he has a good passing day,” explains Tackle Fatty McMuffin. McMuffin wasn’t the only one to single out Jones when referencing respect garnered from teammates. “We are long time buddies. We joined the Ballers at the same time. As a player he is really gifted and as a friend indispensible,” says Bonebreaker.
While they know their teammates respect them, McMuffin does feel that “sometimes (the Offensive Line) gets overlooked in the running game.” He quantifies this by stating, “I wouldn’t call it disrespect, just not real close with the Running Backs.” Hank Hitch, a Guard for the Ballers and self proclaimed ‘biggest piece of lard on the line,’ metaphorically explains, “as long as those little leprechauns share the pot of gold when they hit paydirt, we are fine.” “Besides, they know if they misbehave then perhaps we just let a linebacker through as punishment,” he says with a wink.
However, their most important camaraderie is that which they share with each other. “It’s great. Everyone knows what has to be done in order for our crative guys to do their thing,” explains Pushman. “A lot of new faces since the start of Season 4…so having an offseason to spend together in the weight room and (on the) training table should really help us gel,” claims McMuffin, who along with Bonebreaker, Hitch, and Guards Joe Kinney and Gin Rummey have spent their entire career with Blacksburg and are entering their 4th full seasons with the team. Meanwhile, Bonecrasher and Tackle Von Tierre are entering their 3rd full seasons. The rest of the Offensvie Line is made up of 2nd year Tackles, Pushman and Henry George, along with Tackle Joe Pancake and Guard Topher Scott who will be in their first full seasons as Ballers.
There is much more to an Offensive Line’s unity than simply playing together though. Outside of games and practice, the Ballers Offensive Linemen try to stay in touch and get to know each other as much as possible. “Who would’ve imagined that Joe Pancake and I would have our love for making the little nice cross-stitches in common,” asks Hitch. “Bricky and I have had our bridge club for a long time and we have great participation during our linemen poetry evenings,” he explains.
While other positions have stats that speak for themselves, one must dig a little deeper to determine the success of an Offensive Line. “Why can’t the statsmakers appreciate the finesr side of our work?” Hitch wonders. “I would love to see that I give up no hurries, not just ‘Yay, great, I put that NT on his backside, again.’” When one does dig though, they’ll find that the Offensive Line is becoming an increasingly strong part of an increasingly strong team. While the sacks allowed did increase last year for the first time, the yards per carry of the running backs has increased each year, along with the number of rushing touchdowns, and you can expect those numbers to continue improving through Season 5. “With the midseason and offseason upgrades, I really expect big things from the O-Line,” claims McMuffin.
Season 5 Preview - Meet the Ballers
This is the part of the guide where we get to learn a little about all the different agents that make up the Ballers organization.
Agent: Squirtz11
Players: Joe Pancake (G)
Name: Myles
Age: 27
Location: Emporia, KS
Occupation: Estimator
Favorite Football Team: Pro: Indianapolis Colts -- College: Kansas Jayhawks
Favorite Other Sport: Basketball
Favorite Band/Musician: 3 Doors Down
Favorite Movie: Casino
Favorite TV Show: Family Guy
Favorite Pastime: Bass Fishing
Role Model: My Son
Dream Job: Actuary for a large insurance company (besides being a Professional Athlete)
Something Odd about You: Not sure if this counts or not, but I do enjoy watching WWE from time-to-time (although it's lost its luster over the past few years)
Agent: Zithers
Player: Mario Boomer (K)
Name (first name is fine): Zach
Age: 18
Location: Hell aka Tampa
Occupation (only if you want to): Student
Favorite Football Team: Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers
Favorite Other Sport: Atlanta Braves
Favorite Band/Musician: Megadeth
Favorite Movie: Bad Santa or There Will Be Blood
Favorite TV Show: The Office (US)
Favorite Pastime: Being unproductive on the computer
Role Model: Hmmmm... Satan
Dream Job: Photographer
Something Odd about You: I had the privilege of almost having my butt touched by Dolly Parton
Agent: colonelghost
Players: LB Lawrence Julius Taylor (CB Slasher and Jonathan Evans)
Name (first name is fine): Jack
Age: 22
Location: Wakefield, UK
Occupation (only if you want to): Air Traffic Controller
Favorite Football Team: NY Giants
Favorite Other Sport: Soccer
Favorite Band/Musician: Jimi Hendrix
Favorite Movie: Top Gun
Favorite TV Show: Scrubs
Favorite Pastime: Playing football/soccer
Role Model: My dad
Dream Job: Pro football player
Something Odd about You: I'm a vegetarian
Agent: ilv2sift
Players: SS Edward Bellamy, OT Henry George
Name (first name is fine): James
Age: 28
Location: Wellington, New Zealand
Occupation (only if you want to): Student, writing up MA thesis in New Zealand/United Kingdom history. Have also done quite a bit of public history work, and had a couple of articles published, so can nearly call myself a historian proper!
Favorite Football Team: 49ers
Favorite Other Sport: Rugby Union
Favorite Band/Musician: Underground Resistance
Favorite Movie: The Usual Suspects
Favorite TV Show: Don't watch much tv, but anything NFL related
Favorite Pastime: Having a few beers with mates at the pub.
Role Model: Eric Hobsbawm (English historian)
Dream Job: Hmmm, not sure about that.
Something Odd about You: I'm a huge NFL fan, living in New Zealand. Most people here just don't understand!
Agent: mdbryne
Players: CB Gordon D'arcy (WR Mark Bryne)
Name (first name is fine): Mark
Age: 22
Location: Dublin, Ireland
Occupation (only if you want to): Student
Favorite Football Team: Chargers
Favorite Other Sport: Rugby
Favorite Band/Musician: Deathcab for cutie
Favorite Movie: Gladiator
Favorite TV Show: Family guy
Favorite Pastime: Playing sports- rugby,soccer,golf
Role Model: tony o'rielly
Dream Job: A pro Surfer would be sweet
Agent: Landon06
Players: WR Landon Swifty
Name (first name is fine): Christian
Age: 36
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Occupation (only if you want to): Tech Support at VZW
Favorite Football Team: Washington Redskins/Florida State Seminoles
Favorite Other Sport: MLB - Boston Red Sox
Favorite Band/Musician: Too many to mention - love a lot of music
Favorite Movie: Again too many - Saving Private Ryan, LOTR, Anchorman
Favorite TV Show: Sportscenter
Favorite Pastime: Spending time with family
Role Model: Dad - hard worker that is still putting up with my Mom
Dream Job: WR for the Washington Redskins
Something Odd about You: Not odd but interesting - I was an Air Force firefighter from 91 - 99.
Agent: heite
Player: WR Jupp Zupp
Name (first name is fine): Hans
Age:38
Location: Zürich,switzerland
Occupation (only if you want to): Medical Doktor
Favorite Football Team: green bay
Favorite Other Sport:golf hcp 3,7
Favorite Band/Musician: soko
Favorite Movie: last boyscout
Favorite TV Show: dont have TV (no joke)
Favorite Pastime:golf, of course
Role Model: Gladstone Gander
Dream Job:the one i have
Agent: rbetesta
Players: Khari Jones (QB), Jesse Lumsden (HB), Big Daddy Hawkeye (DT) (Ryan Betesta WR, K Troy Westwood, TE Jamie Stoddard)
Name: Ryan Betesta
Age: 24
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Occupation: Television Production
Favorite Football Team: Cincy Bengals
Favorite Other Sport: Hockey
Favorite Band/Musician: Red Hot Chili Peppers
Favorite Movie: Gladiator
Favorite TV Show: House
Favorite Pastime: Video Games, Golf, Bowling
Role Model: Bret Hart
Dream Job: Technical Director for live televised football games
Something Odd about You: I still live at home (but thats probably not so odd around here lol)
Agent: Silent Earth
Player: Silent Earth (SS)
Name: Chris Turner
Age: 34 (35 on 9/19)
Location: Wytheville, VA
Occupation: I work in a machine shop.
Favorite Football Team: Detroit Lions/Tennessee Vols
Favorite Other Sport: Hockey (Red Wings, Baby)
Favorite Band/Musician: Wayyyy too many to get into. I listen to everything from metal to bluegrass.
Favorite Movie: If I had to pick ONE, it'd prolly be "Boondock Saints", but there's a slew of others.
Favorite TV Show: "Ghost Hunters" or most any other paranormal related show.
Favorite Pastime: Drinkin' Beer and going to see bands.
Role Model: My old man
Dream Job: Probably something in the music business
Something Odd about You: I have NEVER had a driver's license, although i'm learning and looking to change that soon.
Agent: Squirtz11
Players: Joe Pancake (G)
Name: Myles
Age: 27
Location: Emporia, KS
Occupation: Estimator
Favorite Football Team: Pro: Indianapolis Colts -- College: Kansas Jayhawks
Favorite Other Sport: Basketball
Favorite Band/Musician: 3 Doors Down
Favorite Movie: Casino
Favorite TV Show: Family Guy
Favorite Pastime: Bass Fishing
Role Model: My Son
Dream Job: Actuary for a large insurance company (besides being a Professional Athlete)
Something Odd about You: Not sure if this counts or not, but I do enjoy watching WWE from time-to-time (although it's lost its luster over the past few years)
Agent: Zithers
Player: Mario Boomer (K)
Name (first name is fine): Zach
Age: 18
Location: Hell aka Tampa
Occupation (only if you want to): Student
Favorite Football Team: Carolina Panthers and Pittsburgh Steelers
Favorite Other Sport: Atlanta Braves
Favorite Band/Musician: Megadeth
Favorite Movie: Bad Santa or There Will Be Blood
Favorite TV Show: The Office (US)
Favorite Pastime: Being unproductive on the computer
Role Model: Hmmmm... Satan
Dream Job: Photographer
Something Odd about You: I had the privilege of almost having my butt touched by Dolly Parton
Agent: colonelghost
Players: LB Lawrence Julius Taylor (CB Slasher and Jonathan Evans)
Name (first name is fine): Jack
Age: 22
Location: Wakefield, UK
Occupation (only if you want to): Air Traffic Controller
Favorite Football Team: NY Giants
Favorite Other Sport: Soccer
Favorite Band/Musician: Jimi Hendrix
Favorite Movie: Top Gun
Favorite TV Show: Scrubs
Favorite Pastime: Playing football/soccer
Role Model: My dad
Dream Job: Pro football player
Something Odd about You: I'm a vegetarian
Agent: ilv2sift
Players: SS Edward Bellamy, OT Henry George
Name (first name is fine): James
Age: 28
Location: Wellington, New Zealand
Occupation (only if you want to): Student, writing up MA thesis in New Zealand/United Kingdom history. Have also done quite a bit of public history work, and had a couple of articles published, so can nearly call myself a historian proper!
Favorite Football Team: 49ers
Favorite Other Sport: Rugby Union
Favorite Band/Musician: Underground Resistance
Favorite Movie: The Usual Suspects
Favorite TV Show: Don't watch much tv, but anything NFL related
Favorite Pastime: Having a few beers with mates at the pub.
Role Model: Eric Hobsbawm (English historian)
Dream Job: Hmmm, not sure about that.
Something Odd about You: I'm a huge NFL fan, living in New Zealand. Most people here just don't understand!
Agent: mdbryne
Players: CB Gordon D'arcy (WR Mark Bryne)
Name (first name is fine): Mark
Age: 22
Location: Dublin, Ireland
Occupation (only if you want to): Student
Favorite Football Team: Chargers
Favorite Other Sport: Rugby
Favorite Band/Musician: Deathcab for cutie
Favorite Movie: Gladiator
Favorite TV Show: Family guy
Favorite Pastime: Playing sports- rugby,soccer,golf
Role Model: tony o'rielly
Dream Job: A pro Surfer would be sweet
Agent: Landon06
Players: WR Landon Swifty
Name (first name is fine): Christian
Age: 36
Location: Columbus, Ohio
Occupation (only if you want to): Tech Support at VZW
Favorite Football Team: Washington Redskins/Florida State Seminoles
Favorite Other Sport: MLB - Boston Red Sox
Favorite Band/Musician: Too many to mention - love a lot of music
Favorite Movie: Again too many - Saving Private Ryan, LOTR, Anchorman
Favorite TV Show: Sportscenter
Favorite Pastime: Spending time with family
Role Model: Dad - hard worker that is still putting up with my Mom
Dream Job: WR for the Washington Redskins
Something Odd about You: Not odd but interesting - I was an Air Force firefighter from 91 - 99.
Agent: heite
Player: WR Jupp Zupp
Name (first name is fine): Hans
Age:38
Location: Zürich,switzerland
Occupation (only if you want to): Medical Doktor
Favorite Football Team: green bay
Favorite Other Sport:golf hcp 3,7
Favorite Band/Musician: soko
Favorite Movie: last boyscout
Favorite TV Show: dont have TV (no joke)
Favorite Pastime:golf, of course
Role Model: Gladstone Gander
Dream Job:the one i have
Agent: rbetesta
Players: Khari Jones (QB), Jesse Lumsden (HB), Big Daddy Hawkeye (DT) (Ryan Betesta WR, K Troy Westwood, TE Jamie Stoddard)
Name: Ryan Betesta
Age: 24
Location: Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
Occupation: Television Production
Favorite Football Team: Cincy Bengals
Favorite Other Sport: Hockey
Favorite Band/Musician: Red Hot Chili Peppers
Favorite Movie: Gladiator
Favorite TV Show: House
Favorite Pastime: Video Games, Golf, Bowling
Role Model: Bret Hart
Dream Job: Technical Director for live televised football games
Something Odd about You: I still live at home (but thats probably not so odd around here lol)
Agent: Silent Earth
Player: Silent Earth (SS)
Name: Chris Turner
Age: 34 (35 on 9/19)
Location: Wytheville, VA
Occupation: I work in a machine shop.
Favorite Football Team: Detroit Lions/Tennessee Vols
Favorite Other Sport: Hockey (Red Wings, Baby)
Favorite Band/Musician: Wayyyy too many to get into. I listen to everything from metal to bluegrass.
Favorite Movie: If I had to pick ONE, it'd prolly be "Boondock Saints", but there's a slew of others.
Favorite TV Show: "Ghost Hunters" or most any other paranormal related show.
Favorite Pastime: Drinkin' Beer and going to see bands.
Role Model: My old man
Dream Job: Probably something in the music business
Something Odd about You: I have NEVER had a driver's license, although i'm learning and looking to change that soon.
Season 5 Preview - Schedule Breakdown
Season Preview - Schedule Breakdown
The 5th season is full of some tough matchups and some other matchups that will be very one-sided. Here is a look at a week by week breakdown. The Ballers start off with a fairly easy start with their only real challenges coming in weesk 2,5,6 and 8 for the first half of the schedule.
Week 1 - @ Hudson Bay Baby Seals (7-9) - What a way to start the season! With a new owner and a rebuilding team, the former Renegade Pirates should easily get dominated by the veteran Ballers. The Ballers won 41-20 last season and this season it won't be much easier for Hudson Bay as most of the players have been replaced and the team doesn't have any of the chemistry it had.
Week 2 - vs Yukon Gold Rush (13-3) - The Ballers started last season against the Gold Rush and it marked their first defeat in the CPL. The Ballers are looking to turn the tides this time around against the #2 team in the Western Conference after having a very tight battle with them last year.
Week 3 - @ Fhockey.com Demons (5-11) - Despite posting a 5-11 record last season, the Demons held the Ballers to 17 points in a 17-3 loss. Much of this can be attributed to Ballers turnovers, with 3 fumbles and an interception keeping the game closer than it should of been. The Ballers will look to expand on their last victory with a big one in week 3.
Week 4 - vs Victoria Admirals (5-11) - Another 5-11 team that Khari Jones and company completely dominated last season winning 36-10. Khari threw for over 300 yards as well as 4 touchdowns, 3 to former Ballers WR Ryan Betesta. Victoria has made very few moves this offseason and will likely not be able to hang with the Ballers.
Week 5 - @ North Delta Huskies (11-5) - The Ballers had two tough battles against the Huskies near the end of season 4 including the first round playoff victory. The Ballers came away victorious in both games were they were slated as "underdogs". The Ballers hope to remain undefeated against the Huskies in this week 5 duel.
Week 6 - vs Jebediah's Oblong Ball Club - The season 4 AAA #2 Champions will meet the Ballers for the very first time as the JOBC were promoted the same year as the Ballers went to Pro. This will be a great matchup of former AAA Western Conference Champs that will challenge both teams.
Week 7 - @ Canadia Snowmen (5-11) - The former Calgary Warriors look absolutely terrible going into season 5 and should be a cakewalk for the Ballers.
Week 8 - @ Moose Jaw Fighting Hobos (13-3) - The Western Conference Champions of Season 4 will meet the Ballers for the 2nd time. The Ballers held their own in the first game before a 4th quarter breakdown lead to 3 Moose Jaw scores and a 45-20 loss for the Ballers. A tough matchup for the Ballers at the start of a tough 4 game stretch that the Ballers would like to start off with a big win.
Week 9 - vs GDS Revolution (9-7) - The Ballers most shocking defeat was at the hands of the GDS Revolution who were the only team to beat the Ballers who fell below the Ballers in the standings. An inability to finish drives and a 4th quarter collapse led to a Ballers 29-17 loss which they will look at avenging this season.
Week 10 - @ Thunder Bay Reapers - The AAA #1 Champs will hope to have better success against the Ballers than their predecessors from a year before, the Winnipeg Jets. Thunder Bay had a similar fate as Winnipeg going 12-4 in the regular season and winning the playoffs, defeating a 16-0 team in the finals to make it to the CPL.
Week 11 - vs Drinkin Hellraisers (16-0) - 4th time's the charm for the Ballers? The Ballers have come so close on 3 occasions to beating the Hellraisers including two playoff defeats and this could be the season that the Ballers pull it off.
Week 12 - @ Toronto Rampage (8-8) - The former Toronto Renegades have undergone some major restructuring and personnel changes but it is unlikely enough to hold off the Ballers.
Week 13 - vs BC Beerfest (6-10) - BC gave the Ballers a tough fight last season with a 31-23 loss as Jesse Lumsden went to town for 3 scores.
Week 14 - @ Hawaiian Hoyas (7-9) - The Ballers had their way with the Hoyas last season posting a 59-24 victory including 4 rushing touchdowns and 4 passing touchdowns. The defense also held their own with 4 interceptions and 5 sacks. The Hoyas are getting better but have not had a good preseason posting back to back losses against the Bastard Sons of Doug Flutie and the Adriana Lima Beans
Week 15 - vs Winnipeg Jets (8-8) - The last conference game of the regular season pits the Ballers up against the Winnipeg Jets. The Jets game last season marked the turning point for the Ballers season as things really started to heat up in the home stretch. Led by a dominating rushing attack with 5 touchdowns, it was a very shocking blowout as the Ballers proved that they are one of the top teams in the Western Conference by beating the AAA #1 League Champs.
Week 16 - vs Barrie Baycats (6-10) - The interconference matchup puts the Ballers in good favour as four years of CPL haven't been good on the Baycats who have never made the playoffs and continue to struggle. The Ballers will be able to seize this opportunity and help secure a playoff spot if needed at this point.
The 5th season is full of some tough matchups and some other matchups that will be very one-sided. Here is a look at a week by week breakdown. The Ballers start off with a fairly easy start with their only real challenges coming in weesk 2,5,6 and 8 for the first half of the schedule.
Week 1 - @ Hudson Bay Baby Seals (7-9) - What a way to start the season! With a new owner and a rebuilding team, the former Renegade Pirates should easily get dominated by the veteran Ballers. The Ballers won 41-20 last season and this season it won't be much easier for Hudson Bay as most of the players have been replaced and the team doesn't have any of the chemistry it had.
Week 2 - vs Yukon Gold Rush (13-3) - The Ballers started last season against the Gold Rush and it marked their first defeat in the CPL. The Ballers are looking to turn the tides this time around against the #2 team in the Western Conference after having a very tight battle with them last year.
Week 3 - @ Fhockey.com Demons (5-11) - Despite posting a 5-11 record last season, the Demons held the Ballers to 17 points in a 17-3 loss. Much of this can be attributed to Ballers turnovers, with 3 fumbles and an interception keeping the game closer than it should of been. The Ballers will look to expand on their last victory with a big one in week 3.
Week 4 - vs Victoria Admirals (5-11) - Another 5-11 team that Khari Jones and company completely dominated last season winning 36-10. Khari threw for over 300 yards as well as 4 touchdowns, 3 to former Ballers WR Ryan Betesta. Victoria has made very few moves this offseason and will likely not be able to hang with the Ballers.
Week 5 - @ North Delta Huskies (11-5) - The Ballers had two tough battles against the Huskies near the end of season 4 including the first round playoff victory. The Ballers came away victorious in both games were they were slated as "underdogs". The Ballers hope to remain undefeated against the Huskies in this week 5 duel.
Week 6 - vs Jebediah's Oblong Ball Club - The season 4 AAA #2 Champions will meet the Ballers for the very first time as the JOBC were promoted the same year as the Ballers went to Pro. This will be a great matchup of former AAA Western Conference Champs that will challenge both teams.
Week 7 - @ Canadia Snowmen (5-11) - The former Calgary Warriors look absolutely terrible going into season 5 and should be a cakewalk for the Ballers.
Week 8 - @ Moose Jaw Fighting Hobos (13-3) - The Western Conference Champions of Season 4 will meet the Ballers for the 2nd time. The Ballers held their own in the first game before a 4th quarter breakdown lead to 3 Moose Jaw scores and a 45-20 loss for the Ballers. A tough matchup for the Ballers at the start of a tough 4 game stretch that the Ballers would like to start off with a big win.
Week 9 - vs GDS Revolution (9-7) - The Ballers most shocking defeat was at the hands of the GDS Revolution who were the only team to beat the Ballers who fell below the Ballers in the standings. An inability to finish drives and a 4th quarter collapse led to a Ballers 29-17 loss which they will look at avenging this season.
Week 10 - @ Thunder Bay Reapers - The AAA #1 Champs will hope to have better success against the Ballers than their predecessors from a year before, the Winnipeg Jets. Thunder Bay had a similar fate as Winnipeg going 12-4 in the regular season and winning the playoffs, defeating a 16-0 team in the finals to make it to the CPL.
Week 11 - vs Drinkin Hellraisers (16-0) - 4th time's the charm for the Ballers? The Ballers have come so close on 3 occasions to beating the Hellraisers including two playoff defeats and this could be the season that the Ballers pull it off.
Week 12 - @ Toronto Rampage (8-8) - The former Toronto Renegades have undergone some major restructuring and personnel changes but it is unlikely enough to hold off the Ballers.
Week 13 - vs BC Beerfest (6-10) - BC gave the Ballers a tough fight last season with a 31-23 loss as Jesse Lumsden went to town for 3 scores.
Week 14 - @ Hawaiian Hoyas (7-9) - The Ballers had their way with the Hoyas last season posting a 59-24 victory including 4 rushing touchdowns and 4 passing touchdowns. The defense also held their own with 4 interceptions and 5 sacks. The Hoyas are getting better but have not had a good preseason posting back to back losses against the Bastard Sons of Doug Flutie and the Adriana Lima Beans
Week 15 - vs Winnipeg Jets (8-8) - The last conference game of the regular season pits the Ballers up against the Winnipeg Jets. The Jets game last season marked the turning point for the Ballers season as things really started to heat up in the home stretch. Led by a dominating rushing attack with 5 touchdowns, it was a very shocking blowout as the Ballers proved that they are one of the top teams in the Western Conference by beating the AAA #1 League Champs.
Week 16 - vs Barrie Baycats (6-10) - The interconference matchup puts the Ballers in good favour as four years of CPL haven't been good on the Baycats who have never made the playoffs and continue to struggle. The Ballers will be able to seize this opportunity and help secure a playoff spot if needed at this point.
Friday, September 19, 2008
Betesta Returns to the Ballers Bowl
BLACKSBURG, VA - Ryan Betesta left Blacksburg a few days ago but is already coming back home for a showdown of two of the top teams in the Canada Pro League. The fans will be torn as the Ballers take on the Yetis in a preseason matchup, a rematch of the season 3 AAA Championship and a potential preview of a possible CPL Championship Matchup.
Betesta was traded to the Yetis for cornerback Rhys Clennon and both players will get a chance to play their former teams tomorrow. Ballers Owner Mike is certain that his boys will shut down Betesta and keep him from making an impact.
`He won`t even get 3 catches. Our boys know his style and they are ready for him. They`ve lined up against him before in practice and they are going to keep him at bay,` Mike told the Press.
Its a preseason game but the Ballers are intent on proving that they can hang with the Yetis after being embarassed the last time these two met in the AAA Championship, getting beat 43-17 and being held to -2.5 yards rushing. The Yetis have to be breathing a sigh of relief because the only threat that the Ballers had in that game was Betesta who had 14 catches for 238.5 yards and 2 touchdowns, both for over 50 yards.
`It`s going to be weird going up against the old guys but there`s no anomosity about the trade. The trade was important for both teams in making key adjustments to help better each other. I can say that I am looking forward to getting my first TD as a Yetis and it would be quite fitting to score it against my former team,` Betesta told the Press.
The Ballers duel with the Yetis tomorrow at the Ballers Bowl and it will be interesting to see how the fans react to Betesta.
Betesta was traded to the Yetis for cornerback Rhys Clennon and both players will get a chance to play their former teams tomorrow. Ballers Owner Mike is certain that his boys will shut down Betesta and keep him from making an impact.
`He won`t even get 3 catches. Our boys know his style and they are ready for him. They`ve lined up against him before in practice and they are going to keep him at bay,` Mike told the Press.
Its a preseason game but the Ballers are intent on proving that they can hang with the Yetis after being embarassed the last time these two met in the AAA Championship, getting beat 43-17 and being held to -2.5 yards rushing. The Yetis have to be breathing a sigh of relief because the only threat that the Ballers had in that game was Betesta who had 14 catches for 238.5 yards and 2 touchdowns, both for over 50 yards.
`It`s going to be weird going up against the old guys but there`s no anomosity about the trade. The trade was important for both teams in making key adjustments to help better each other. I can say that I am looking forward to getting my first TD as a Yetis and it would be quite fitting to score it against my former team,` Betesta told the Press.
The Ballers duel with the Yetis tomorrow at the Ballers Bowl and it will be interesting to see how the fans react to Betesta.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
OOTP Ballers Game Top Ten Plays
10. Rhys Clennon gets in the way of a Jim Warrior pass for his first interception as a Baller
9. Khari gets the ball to Dirk Illicious who is stopped inches short of the goal line
8. Karl Ayotte weaves in and out of defenders on his way to a 9 yard score
7. Khari finds Landon Swifty downfield for a 23 yard gain
6. Khari dumps it off to Wayne Chrebet who jukes out some defenders for a 30.5 yard gain
5. After fumbling the ball away on the previous play, Beast Baily gets it back with an interception
4. Derek Pacheco sacks the QB and the ball comes loose and Speed McLovin' is there to recover it
3. Jim Warrior is picked off for the 3rd time, this time by Joe Gott who brings it back 23 yards before being taken down
2. Beast Baily comes up big with his 2nd interception of the game
1. Khari Jones connects with Wayne Chrebet and he takes it 77 yards for his first score as a Baller
9. Khari gets the ball to Dirk Illicious who is stopped inches short of the goal line
8. Karl Ayotte weaves in and out of defenders on his way to a 9 yard score
7. Khari finds Landon Swifty downfield for a 23 yard gain
6. Khari dumps it off to Wayne Chrebet who jukes out some defenders for a 30.5 yard gain
5. After fumbling the ball away on the previous play, Beast Baily gets it back with an interception
4. Derek Pacheco sacks the QB and the ball comes loose and Speed McLovin' is there to recover it
3. Jim Warrior is picked off for the 3rd time, this time by Joe Gott who brings it back 23 yards before being taken down
2. Beast Baily comes up big with his 2nd interception of the game
1. Khari Jones connects with Wayne Chrebet and he takes it 77 yards for his first score as a Baller
Boomer beats out Westwood for Kicking Job
BLACKSBURG, VA - It's official, Troy Westwood's days as a kicker have come to an end in Blacksburg. Following a failed prediction in the playoff game against Drinkin', a dispute between Troy Westwood and Owner Mike led to talks with former Nigerian Nightmares kicker Mario Boomer.
Boomer was brought into training camp for a good old-fashioned kickoff competition in which the winner would get to take the kicking job next season. Boomer barely edged out Westwood who missed a 45 yarder that could've sealed his job and then went onto miss back to back's from the 50. Boomer has been declared the winner and will be the Ballers kicker.
"It suck. There is nothing more that I can say. I love the team, I love being here. We've been through some awesome times and some heartbreak and it will be sad to see it go," kicker Troy Westwood.
Troy leaves the Ballers with all of the kicking records in tact and mighty big shoes to fill. Troy nailed 128 of 156 field goals in his Ballers career as well as 218 of 230 PATs and a fumble recovery.
Troy was reportedly signed as a free agent to the Detroit Demon Lions but has since been traded to the Inland Empire Dirtballs. The Blacksburg Press wishes him the best of luck in the future.
Boomer was brought into training camp for a good old-fashioned kickoff competition in which the winner would get to take the kicking job next season. Boomer barely edged out Westwood who missed a 45 yarder that could've sealed his job and then went onto miss back to back's from the 50. Boomer has been declared the winner and will be the Ballers kicker.
"It suck. There is nothing more that I can say. I love the team, I love being here. We've been through some awesome times and some heartbreak and it will be sad to see it go," kicker Troy Westwood.
Troy leaves the Ballers with all of the kicking records in tact and mighty big shoes to fill. Troy nailed 128 of 156 field goals in his Ballers career as well as 218 of 230 PATs and a fumble recovery.
Troy was reportedly signed as a free agent to the Detroit Demon Lions but has since been traded to the Inland Empire Dirtballs. The Blacksburg Press wishes him the best of luck in the future.
Ballers Acquire Karl Ayotte from Defunct Towers
BLACKSBURG, VA - The Ballers have moved back to a 3-back system of many years ago. It goes back to season 1 and 2 when Alex Casino, Dan Etheridge and Pinchthat Nuggetout used to rule the streets around here. Now, its the newest addition, Karl Ayotte, Jesse Lumsden and Pinchthat Nuggetout ruling the ground around here.
"It's certainly exciting to be able to pick up a free agent like Ayotte with the disbanding of the Towers. He has done fantastic things in Toronto and we look forward to having him here in Blacksburg and seeing what he can," Offensive Co-Ordinator Ryan Betesta commented.
This marks Ayotte's 5th stop of his career after playing for the Montreal Ice, the Pasadena Fighting Hellfish, the Phnom Penh Warriors, the Silverymoon Elves and most recently, the Toronto Towers. Through it all, Ayotte has racked up 3,875 yards and 56 touchdowns as well as two receiving touchdowns.
Ballers rushing records holder Jesse Lumsden welcomes the newcomer with open arms and fears that his records may be on the line.
"Karl is a talented guy and he has what it takes to break my records. His numbers last season slightly beat out mine so we'll see what the two of us can do together on the ground," HB Jesse Lumsden.
The Ballers are more traditionally known for their passing game as Khari Jones has taken league awards in back to back seasons. Could this be a changing of the guard in Blacksburg?
"It's certainly exciting to be able to pick up a free agent like Ayotte with the disbanding of the Towers. He has done fantastic things in Toronto and we look forward to having him here in Blacksburg and seeing what he can," Offensive Co-Ordinator Ryan Betesta commented.
This marks Ayotte's 5th stop of his career after playing for the Montreal Ice, the Pasadena Fighting Hellfish, the Phnom Penh Warriors, the Silverymoon Elves and most recently, the Toronto Towers. Through it all, Ayotte has racked up 3,875 yards and 56 touchdowns as well as two receiving touchdowns.
Ballers rushing records holder Jesse Lumsden welcomes the newcomer with open arms and fears that his records may be on the line.
"Karl is a talented guy and he has what it takes to break my records. His numbers last season slightly beat out mine so we'll see what the two of us can do together on the ground," HB Jesse Lumsden.
The Ballers are more traditionally known for their passing game as Khari Jones has taken league awards in back to back seasons. Could this be a changing of the guard in Blacksburg?
Monday, September 15, 2008
The Return of Lawrence Julius Taylor
Earlier today, the Ballers reached negotiations with the Yorkshire Rippers who picked up Lawrence Julius Taylor and Slasher Evans at the end of the last season to bring Lawrence Julius Taylor back to Blacksburg. Following the acquisitions of Rhys Clennon and Joe Gott, the Ballers overstacked corner position looked like it was ready to overflow while the linebacker position was having a slight drought. All that was solved when the Ballers sent corner Johnathan Evans to the Rippers in exchange for LJT.
Evans had a solid season in Blacksburg picking up 2 interceptions and 15 deflections. In season 3, LJT recorded 27 tackles and a forced fumble in the Ballers third season in which they won the conference championship going 16-0 in the regular season. LJT had an excellent 4th season with 71 tackles, a sack, 17 deflections and a forced fumble. Taylor is going to be looking to improve on those numbers as he enters his first season in the Canada Pro League.
In other news, the Ballers picked up Guard Topher Scott from the Golden State Gorillas. Scott has played the last 4 seasons with the Gorillas including their season 2 USA A #2 League Championship run. Scott recorded 227 pancakes during this period and was a dominant force on their o-line.
Evans had a solid season in Blacksburg picking up 2 interceptions and 15 deflections. In season 3, LJT recorded 27 tackles and a forced fumble in the Ballers third season in which they won the conference championship going 16-0 in the regular season. LJT had an excellent 4th season with 71 tackles, a sack, 17 deflections and a forced fumble. Taylor is going to be looking to improve on those numbers as he enters his first season in the Canada Pro League.
In other news, the Ballers picked up Guard Topher Scott from the Golden State Gorillas. Scott has played the last 4 seasons with the Gorillas including their season 2 USA A #2 League Championship run. Scott recorded 227 pancakes during this period and was a dominant force on their o-line.
Saturday, September 13, 2008
Say it Ain't So!
BLACKSBURG, VA - At the end of Season 2, the Blacksburg Ballers announced the most shocking free agent signing of Baller history when they announced the signing of wide receiver Ryan Betesta from the USA AAA #2's Gilroy Devils. Fans rejoiced at what would give the Ballers passing game a big boost. Today, fans are shocked and horrified to find the news that Ryan Betesta has been dealt to the rival defending CPL Champs, the Arctic Bay Yetis for cornerback Rhys Clennon.
Betesta joined the Ballers following a breakout 2nd season where he caught 172 passes for 1,921 yards and 14 touchdowns, league leader in both categories. Betesta's presence was immediately felt on the Ballers field as he and QB Khari Jones connected 111 times for 1,423 yards and 11 touchdowns, both of which were new Ballers records at the time. Betesta was the pillar of a successful passing attack which saw the Ballers go 16-0 and take the conference championship before falling to the Arctic Bay Yetis in the AAA #2 League Championship game. Khari Jones would benefit most from Betesta that season taking 2nd place in both league TD's and league yards behind Yetis QB Jamarcus Russell.
Betesta would set the bar even higher in season 4, the Ballers first CPL season, matching his previous season of 111 catches but this time going for 1,497 yards and 14 touchdowns breaking his own records. Khari would also pick up individual awards with this effective passing attack. The trade comes as a shock to Ballers fans who were getting ready for Betesta to take it even further in season 5.
"I can understand how the fans are feeling because this may appear to be a huge loss on the surface. Betesta has been an important part of this offense but as a team, it is our job to deal with our issues and pass defense gave us some trouble and we had the opportunity to correct that with a great player trade for Yetis CB Rhys Clennon and we took advantage of this, " Owner Mike told the Press.
The Ballers defense allowed almost 4,000 passing yards last season and 22 touchdowns while only recording 15 interceptions, a big change from the defense we saw in season 3. More importantly, the Ballers D had several 4th quarter meltdowns including the Moose Jaw loss where Blacksburg allowed 4 rushing touchdowns in the 4th and the North Delta victory where the Ballers allowed 500 passing yards as well as 3 passing touchdowns in the 4th quarter to send the game to overtime. In Rhys Clennon, the Ballers hope to stop the bleeding with a shutdown corner who had 6 interceptions last season and 20 overall as a Yetis.
"I'm a team player first and foremost and I believe that this is in the best option of the team.
The coaches understand where our problems lie and this offense can survive without me. I wish my team mates the best and hope that Rhys can make a bigger impact than I did here, " Betesta told the Press prior to boarding for Arctic Bay.
Quarterback Khari Jones "It's a tough loss but as a quarterback, I know that we have guys that can easily step up and fill those shoes. Vita has proven that he has #1 capability as well as Swifty and Barlow and the nwe additions Wayne Chrebet from the Nightmares and Jupp Zupp should help ease the way. We're still going to have a dominant passing attack cause we have the guys that can fill in but he will still be missed."
The new season should be starting soon and it will interesting to see if Betesta gets a chance to play his former team in preseason matches or we may just have to wait for a CPL Championship showdown in week #20 but as the offseason continues on, Baller fans can look at the solace in the fact that the Ballers organization is doing their best to improve the team.
Two More Moves
Two new moves for everyone tonight.
- Strong Safety Edward Bellamy will be joining us. He is a good friend of Henry George and although not a needed position, Bellamy adds additional depth to a great safety team. Bellamy has played the last 4 seasons with the Detroit Dump Trucks of the USA Pro where he recorded 5 interceptions, 3 forced fubmbles and 181 tackles. Bellamy is a great coverage safety and we are lucky and grateful to have him here.
- WR Jupp Zupp is from Switzerland and spent the last season with the Barcelona Spanish Matadors. Zupp had his best season so far recording 907.5 yards on 79 catches and found the endzone twice. Welcome Zupp!
- Strong Safety Edward Bellamy will be joining us. He is a good friend of Henry George and although not a needed position, Bellamy adds additional depth to a great safety team. Bellamy has played the last 4 seasons with the Detroit Dump Trucks of the USA Pro where he recorded 5 interceptions, 3 forced fubmbles and 181 tackles. Bellamy is a great coverage safety and we are lucky and grateful to have him here.
- WR Jupp Zupp is from Switzerland and spent the last season with the Barcelona Spanish Matadors. Zupp had his best season so far recording 907.5 yards on 79 catches and found the endzone twice. Welcome Zupp!
History of the Ballers
The Ballers saw new life in the middle of the first season as Owner Mike took over from the previous owners and started to turn the season around. At this point, the Ballers were 3-5 but the signing of QB Khari Jones and OC Ryan Betesta and DC kb2120 saw the Ballers turn their season around and fight for a playoff seed. A 4 game winning streak followed by a loss against the Reading Redskins allowed the Ballers to finish 8-8 and 8th place in the Western Conference of Canadian AAA #2. The Ballers faced the #1 seeded Drinkin' Hellraisers and lost a close one 17-16 to mark their first playoff defeat. as Drinkin' went on to win the conference title.
Season 1 Results
Week 9 Phoenixville over Blacksburg 24-13
Week 10 Blacksburg over Alberta 27-10
Week 11 San Francisco over Blacksburg 20-16
Week 12 Blacksburg over Thunder Bay 20-3
Week 13 Blacksburg over Sudbury 26-7
Week 14 Blacksburg over Mt. Oread 10-7
Week 15 Blacksburg over Strathmore 21-7
Week 16 Reading over Blacksburg 16-9
Week 17 Drinkin' over Blacksburg 17-16
The Ballers spent some time recruiting for season 2 and returned to their improved form and their record winning 10 games to finish10-6 and a 6th place seed. The Ballers would square off with Thunder Bay in a first round rematch of week #1 and were defeated 28-13 to post their 2nd straight early plaoff exit. Despite the loss, the Ballers looked impressive throughout the season and opponents were starting to take notice.
Season 2 Results
Week 1 Loss to Thunder Bay 21-10
Week 2 Win over Forumopolis 30-16
Week 3 Win over Moose Island 16-0
Week 4 Win over Abbotsford 25-0
Week 5 Loss to North American23-14
Week 6 Win over Ottawa 38-3
Week 7 Loss to Mooresville 17-13
Week 8 Loss to Yukon 28-14
Week 9 Win over Sudbury 27-6
Week 10 Win over San Fransisco 49-0
Week 11 Win over Phoenixville 16-13
Week 12 Loss to Toronto 24-6
Week 13 Loss to Mt. Oread 19-3
Week 14 Win over Strathmore 124-0
Week 15 Win over TSW 20-16
Week 16 Win over Jersey 20-6
Week 17 Loss to Thunder Bay 28-13
Season 3 saw some big changes in the Ballers lineup as they signed HB Jesse Lumsden from the San Jose Spartans and WR Ryan Betesta from the Gilroy Devils. Betesta anchored a receiving team that helped Khari Jones become league MVP and win 2 individual awards for 2nd place in the league for yards and touchdowns. The defense also kicked some major ass breaking all sorts of records and finishing as the top rush defense in the league allowing 0 rushing toucdhowns and only 5 passing touchdowns. Lumsden also broke several Ballers rushing records as a dominating offense led the team to a 16-0 record and 3 playoff wins to capture the conference championship before losing to the Arctic Bay Yetis in the AAA Finals.
Season 3 Results
Week 1 Win over North American 51-7
Week 2 Win over TSW 38-3
Week 3 Win over Abbotsford 27-10
Week 4 Win over Brutal Deluxe 32-0
Week 5 Win over Mooresville 23-13
Week 6 Win over Boston 65-0
Week 7 Win over Phoenixville 19-18
Week 8 Win over Thunder Bay 20-16
Week 9 Win over Los Angeles 171-0
Week 10 Win over Forumopolis 30-10
Week 11 Win over Moose Island 27-3
Week 12 Win over Sudbury 32-0
Week 13 Win over Saskatoon 31-3
Week 14 Win over Mt Oread 25-9
Week 15 Win over Ottawa 40-0
Week 16 Win over Vancouver 73-3
Week 17 Win over Saskatoon 60-6
Week 18 Win over Forumopolis 29-26
Week 19 Win over Moose Island 34-10
Week 20 Loss to Arctic Bay 43-17
Season 4 would mark the Ballers first season in the Canadian Pro League. The Ballers acquired several former AAA players including Jonathan Starr, Henry George, and a few Mt. Oread Players, McClinton James, Big Gravy, Phuck Mizzou and Joe Pancake. The difficult competition would prove to a challenge for the Ballers who finished the season 12-4 after winning their last 5 in a row to finish 4th in the conference. Lots of offensive records were broken again as Khari finished 3rd in yards and 2nd in TDs in the league and Betesta finished 2nd in yards and 3rd in touchdowns. Derek Pacheco shattered the single season sack record with 29 sacks on the season. The Ballers defeated the North Delta Huskies in the first round of the playoffs but lost to Drinkin' 35-31 in the 2nd round to mark their 3rd early playoff exit.
Season 4 Results
08/03/2008 Yukon Gold Rush L 7-14
08/05/2008 at Fraggle Rock Death Squad W 24-0
08/07/2008 Manitoba Maniacs W 45-13
08/09/2008 at Calgary Warriors W 38-21
08/11/2008 Drinkin Hellraisers L 38-47
08/13/2008 at Hawaiian Hoyas W 59-24
08/15/2008 Victoria Admirals W 36-10
08/17/2008 at Toronto Renegades W 37-7
08/19/2008 GDS Revolution L 17-29
08/21/2008 at Fhockey.com Demons W 17-3
08/23/2008 Moose Jaw Fightin' Hobos L 20-45
08/25/2008 at The Renegade Pirates W 41-20
08/27/2008 Winnipeg Jets W 35-17
08/29/2008 at B.C. Beerfest W 31-23
08/31/2008 North Delta Huskies W 41-38
09/02/2008 at Miami Energy W 189-0
09/04/2008 North Delta Huskies W 38-26
09/06/2008 at Drinkin Hellraisers L 31-35
Season 1 Results
Week 9 Phoenixville over Blacksburg 24-13
Week 10 Blacksburg over Alberta 27-10
Week 11 San Francisco over Blacksburg 20-16
Week 12 Blacksburg over Thunder Bay 20-3
Week 13 Blacksburg over Sudbury 26-7
Week 14 Blacksburg over Mt. Oread 10-7
Week 15 Blacksburg over Strathmore 21-7
Week 16 Reading over Blacksburg 16-9
Week 17 Drinkin' over Blacksburg 17-16
The Ballers spent some time recruiting for season 2 and returned to their improved form and their record winning 10 games to finish10-6 and a 6th place seed. The Ballers would square off with Thunder Bay in a first round rematch of week #1 and were defeated 28-13 to post their 2nd straight early plaoff exit. Despite the loss, the Ballers looked impressive throughout the season and opponents were starting to take notice.
Season 2 Results
Week 1 Loss to Thunder Bay 21-10
Week 2 Win over Forumopolis 30-16
Week 3 Win over Moose Island 16-0
Week 4 Win over Abbotsford 25-0
Week 5 Loss to North American23-14
Week 6 Win over Ottawa 38-3
Week 7 Loss to Mooresville 17-13
Week 8 Loss to Yukon 28-14
Week 9 Win over Sudbury 27-6
Week 10 Win over San Fransisco 49-0
Week 11 Win over Phoenixville 16-13
Week 12 Loss to Toronto 24-6
Week 13 Loss to Mt. Oread 19-3
Week 14 Win over Strathmore 124-0
Week 15 Win over TSW 20-16
Week 16 Win over Jersey 20-6
Week 17 Loss to Thunder Bay 28-13
Season 3 saw some big changes in the Ballers lineup as they signed HB Jesse Lumsden from the San Jose Spartans and WR Ryan Betesta from the Gilroy Devils. Betesta anchored a receiving team that helped Khari Jones become league MVP and win 2 individual awards for 2nd place in the league for yards and touchdowns. The defense also kicked some major ass breaking all sorts of records and finishing as the top rush defense in the league allowing 0 rushing toucdhowns and only 5 passing touchdowns. Lumsden also broke several Ballers rushing records as a dominating offense led the team to a 16-0 record and 3 playoff wins to capture the conference championship before losing to the Arctic Bay Yetis in the AAA Finals.
Season 3 Results
Week 1 Win over North American 51-7
Week 2 Win over TSW 38-3
Week 3 Win over Abbotsford 27-10
Week 4 Win over Brutal Deluxe 32-0
Week 5 Win over Mooresville 23-13
Week 6 Win over Boston 65-0
Week 7 Win over Phoenixville 19-18
Week 8 Win over Thunder Bay 20-16
Week 9 Win over Los Angeles 171-0
Week 10 Win over Forumopolis 30-10
Week 11 Win over Moose Island 27-3
Week 12 Win over Sudbury 32-0
Week 13 Win over Saskatoon 31-3
Week 14 Win over Mt Oread 25-9
Week 15 Win over Ottawa 40-0
Week 16 Win over Vancouver 73-3
Week 17 Win over Saskatoon 60-6
Week 18 Win over Forumopolis 29-26
Week 19 Win over Moose Island 34-10
Week 20 Loss to Arctic Bay 43-17
Season 4 would mark the Ballers first season in the Canadian Pro League. The Ballers acquired several former AAA players including Jonathan Starr, Henry George, and a few Mt. Oread Players, McClinton James, Big Gravy, Phuck Mizzou and Joe Pancake. The difficult competition would prove to a challenge for the Ballers who finished the season 12-4 after winning their last 5 in a row to finish 4th in the conference. Lots of offensive records were broken again as Khari finished 3rd in yards and 2nd in TDs in the league and Betesta finished 2nd in yards and 3rd in touchdowns. Derek Pacheco shattered the single season sack record with 29 sacks on the season. The Ballers defeated the North Delta Huskies in the first round of the playoffs but lost to Drinkin' 35-31 in the 2nd round to mark their 3rd early playoff exit.
Season 4 Results
08/03/2008 Yukon Gold Rush L 7-14
08/05/2008 at Fraggle Rock Death Squad W 24-0
08/07/2008 Manitoba Maniacs W 45-13
08/09/2008 at Calgary Warriors W 38-21
08/11/2008 Drinkin Hellraisers L 38-47
08/13/2008 at Hawaiian Hoyas W 59-24
08/15/2008 Victoria Admirals W 36-10
08/17/2008 at Toronto Renegades W 37-7
08/19/2008 GDS Revolution L 17-29
08/21/2008 at Fhockey.com Demons W 17-3
08/23/2008 Moose Jaw Fightin' Hobos L 20-45
08/25/2008 at The Renegade Pirates W 41-20
08/27/2008 Winnipeg Jets W 35-17
08/29/2008 at B.C. Beerfest W 31-23
08/31/2008 North Delta Huskies W 41-38
09/02/2008 at Miami Energy W 189-0
09/04/2008 North Delta Huskies W 38-26
09/06/2008 at Drinkin Hellraisers L 31-35
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Offseason So Far...
It's been a pretty busy offseason so far and the Blacksburg Press wants you to be informed of all the happenings in Ballers moves so here is a rundown so far:
- The Ballers would like to announce the first offseason move this year. With FS Bill Clinton's depature on the horizon, the Ballers signed FS Jordan Jones from the Mali Mystic's this afternoon to take his spot.
- As of right now, it looks as though the following players will be leaving us in the offseason to look for new teams:
LB Sev Sheppard
TE BJ
CB Mr McKelvin
CB Robin Caze
DT Ucantru Noverthis
FS Bill Clinton
The Blacksburg Ballers organization thanks you for your service and wish you the best of luck as you search for new teams.
- The Ballers would like to announce the purchase of TE T Bone from the Nottingham Outlaws of the South American AAA #2 Division. T Bone has played with them since season 2, although he is a 4 year veteran, and has ammassed 1,362.5 yards with 6 touchdowns on only 153 receptions as well as 160 yards in 4 playoff appearances. T Bone will be taking BJ's spot as #2 TE and he and Dirk will both provide excellent targets for Khari. Welcome aboard T Bone!
- In preparation of Thursday's signings, the Blacksburg Ballers would like to announce the signing of cornerback Jose Foster, previously from the Oregon Ten22. Foster is a good friend of Hank Hitch and Bryce Rotzell and will be a great addition to the Ballers secondary.
- Its just hours into the official start of the offseason and the Ballers would like to announce the signing of WR Wayne Chrebet. Chrebet has spent the last 4 seasons with the Nigerian Nightmares of the Canada Pro League and has ammassed 242 catches for 3,058 and 25 TD's in just 58 games. Wayne will be a great addition to the Ballers receiving team and a great target for Khari Jones.
- The Ballers would also like to welcome CB Joe Gott. Joe comes to us via way of the season 4 Eastern Europe Pro League Champions Barger Hill Burglars. Gott has played through for 4 seasons and brought him two individual interceptions awards for most interceptions in season 2 and season 4. In 56 games, Joe has 35 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, 6 interceptions returned for TD's and 113 PD's as well as 6 more interceptions in playoff games and 1 forced fumble. Gott strikes fear in the heart of QB's everywhere he goes and should be a force in the CPL.
- The Ballers would like to announce the first offseason move this year. With FS Bill Clinton's depature on the horizon, the Ballers signed FS Jordan Jones from the Mali Mystic's this afternoon to take his spot.
- As of right now, it looks as though the following players will be leaving us in the offseason to look for new teams:
LB Sev Sheppard
TE BJ
CB Mr McKelvin
CB Robin Caze
DT Ucantru Noverthis
FS Bill Clinton
The Blacksburg Ballers organization thanks you for your service and wish you the best of luck as you search for new teams.
- The Ballers would like to announce the purchase of TE T Bone from the Nottingham Outlaws of the South American AAA #2 Division. T Bone has played with them since season 2, although he is a 4 year veteran, and has ammassed 1,362.5 yards with 6 touchdowns on only 153 receptions as well as 160 yards in 4 playoff appearances. T Bone will be taking BJ's spot as #2 TE and he and Dirk will both provide excellent targets for Khari. Welcome aboard T Bone!
- In preparation of Thursday's signings, the Blacksburg Ballers would like to announce the signing of cornerback Jose Foster, previously from the Oregon Ten22. Foster is a good friend of Hank Hitch and Bryce Rotzell and will be a great addition to the Ballers secondary.
- Its just hours into the official start of the offseason and the Ballers would like to announce the signing of WR Wayne Chrebet. Chrebet has spent the last 4 seasons with the Nigerian Nightmares of the Canada Pro League and has ammassed 242 catches for 3,058 and 25 TD's in just 58 games. Wayne will be a great addition to the Ballers receiving team and a great target for Khari Jones.
- The Ballers would also like to welcome CB Joe Gott. Joe comes to us via way of the season 4 Eastern Europe Pro League Champions Barger Hill Burglars. Gott has played through for 4 seasons and brought him two individual interceptions awards for most interceptions in season 2 and season 4. In 56 games, Joe has 35 interceptions, 2 forced fumbles, 6 interceptions returned for TD's and 113 PD's as well as 6 more interceptions in playoff games and 1 forced fumble. Gott strikes fear in the heart of QB's everywhere he goes and should be a force in the CPL.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Owner's Box: Gearing Up for a New Season
So I want to welcome everyone to the new Blacksburg Press homepage and thank Ryan for his help in making this. I will be posting segments on here titled the "Owner's Box" which will basically be an opinionated piece on different topics about the team, GLB, ect.
I would like to say first off that it has been an excellent off-season so far. We've gone after a number of free agents and landed a few that we think as a coaching staff will help this team. The spots where we felt we needed depth and improvement have been given considerable upgrades, and we have a few moves that are in the works as well.
The toughest part about off-season is that the players are not actively involved. I know that if I wasn't owning or GM'ing a team I would be bored out of my mind because there is just not enough activities to hold yourself over for a week and half.
This is something Bort has to fix.
And there have been a few interesting suggestions. Like allowing money to mean more than just paying for equipment, this would allow players to buy different things and show it off during the off-season. The private forums are a nice added feature too.
But there really hasn't been anything to actively engage GLB players in the off-season process, unless you're a free agent. I'm not sure exactly what should be added, maybe a draft of some kind or scrimmages year round. But if this game is going to expand even more than it has, the admins have to find something to keep your attention for that time.
So that's basically my take on the off-season. If you have any suggestions for what should be done to make it more fun post a comment with your ideas.
-Mike
I would like to say first off that it has been an excellent off-season so far. We've gone after a number of free agents and landed a few that we think as a coaching staff will help this team. The spots where we felt we needed depth and improvement have been given considerable upgrades, and we have a few moves that are in the works as well.
The toughest part about off-season is that the players are not actively involved. I know that if I wasn't owning or GM'ing a team I would be bored out of my mind because there is just not enough activities to hold yourself over for a week and half.
This is something Bort has to fix.
And there have been a few interesting suggestions. Like allowing money to mean more than just paying for equipment, this would allow players to buy different things and show it off during the off-season. The private forums are a nice added feature too.
But there really hasn't been anything to actively engage GLB players in the off-season process, unless you're a free agent. I'm not sure exactly what should be added, maybe a draft of some kind or scrimmages year round. But if this game is going to expand even more than it has, the admins have to find something to keep your attention for that time.
So that's basically my take on the off-season. If you have any suggestions for what should be done to make it more fun post a comment with your ideas.
-Mike
Baller Highlights from Brown Trout Game
The Ballers held their own but a few big passes for touchdown pulled the Trout ahead and a lack of production on the ground from the Ballers (26 carries for 44.5 yards) spelled a Trout 34-21 victory.
1st Quarter
Khari Jones deals with the pressure on 3rd and 15.5 to find James Vita after the ball is deflected by Jordan Jeffrey and Vita comes down with it for the first down:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9964601
Cody Tanner dumps it off to Cedric Daniels but he is plowed by Silent Earth for a loss on the play:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9965665
2nd Quarter
The Trout get to within the Ballers redzone but Aaron Wilson lays a big hit on the receiver forcing the fumble and Phuck Mizzou is there to recover for the Ballers:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9965877
3rd and 8.5 and Khari Jones goes to his favorite target, Ryan Betesta, for a big 19.5 yard gain and the first down:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9966111
3rd and 17.5 and Khari does it again and finds Betesta deep for a 26 yard gain:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9966255
James Vita brings down the pass in the redzone as the Ballers enter for the first time this game:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9966497
After about 5 or 6 tries, the Ballers finally pound the ball in as Pinchthat Nuggetout takes it in for the score to tie the game at 7:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9966687
3rd Quarter
Khari finds Landon Swifty for the first time today with a 21 yard pass:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9967970
Silent Earth is in the backfield again and this time takes down Ace King for a loss:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9967970
The Trout get into the redzone again with similar results as Bryce Rotzell forces the fumble and Aaron Wilson recovers:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9968503
After a very very nice looking drive, Jesse Lumsden takes it in for the score to cut the Trout lead to 20-14:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9968983
Very next play, Cody Tanner is picked off by Robin Caze deep in Brown Trout territory
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9969052
Very next play after that, Khari hooks up with James Vita for a 32.5 yard touchdown pass and we've got the first Ballers lead of the day:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9969107
4th Quarter
Khari Jones finds Ryan Betesta for a 20 yard gain:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9970486
1st Quarter
Khari Jones deals with the pressure on 3rd and 15.5 to find James Vita after the ball is deflected by Jordan Jeffrey and Vita comes down with it for the first down:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9964601
Cody Tanner dumps it off to Cedric Daniels but he is plowed by Silent Earth for a loss on the play:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9965665
2nd Quarter
The Trout get to within the Ballers redzone but Aaron Wilson lays a big hit on the receiver forcing the fumble and Phuck Mizzou is there to recover for the Ballers:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9965877
3rd and 8.5 and Khari Jones goes to his favorite target, Ryan Betesta, for a big 19.5 yard gain and the first down:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9966111
3rd and 17.5 and Khari does it again and finds Betesta deep for a 26 yard gain:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9966255
James Vita brings down the pass in the redzone as the Ballers enter for the first time this game:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9966497
After about 5 or 6 tries, the Ballers finally pound the ball in as Pinchthat Nuggetout takes it in for the score to tie the game at 7:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9966687
3rd Quarter
Khari finds Landon Swifty for the first time today with a 21 yard pass:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9967970
Silent Earth is in the backfield again and this time takes down Ace King for a loss:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9967970
The Trout get into the redzone again with similar results as Bryce Rotzell forces the fumble and Aaron Wilson recovers:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9968503
After a very very nice looking drive, Jesse Lumsden takes it in for the score to cut the Trout lead to 20-14:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9968983
Very next play, Cody Tanner is picked off by Robin Caze deep in Brown Trout territory
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9969052
Very next play after that, Khari hooks up with James Vita for a 32.5 yard touchdown pass and we've got the first Ballers lead of the day:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9969107
4th Quarter
Khari Jones finds Ryan Betesta for a 20 yard gain:
http://goallineblitz.com/game/replay.pl?game_id=138394&pbp_id=9970486
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
Welcome to the Blacksburg Press!
The Blacksburg Press has now gone live. Welcome to our Blog, the #1 source for all Ballers news! As the 4th season comes to an end, the Blacksburg Press is in the middle of getting ready for our first ever season preview special edition media guide. Stay tuned in the coming days for more Ballers news as we get closer to season 5.
Welcome!
Welcome!
Saturday, September 6, 2008
Westwood Predicts Ballers Victory
DRINKIN - 3 years ago, he was the most hated player on the Ballers roster but over the last 3 seasons, Troy Westwood has worked on getting back into the fans good graces and is looking to exact some revenge on the Hellraisers and is predicting a Ballers victory this afternoon.
A brief history lesson for those of you that are new to Baller football. Season 1, first round of the playoffs, #1 seeded Drinkin' hosting the #8 seed Ballers. Troy Westwood misses a 20 yard chip shot in the first quarter of the game. The Ballers end up losing 17-16 and despite going 3 for 3 in his remaining field goals of the game, the fans still take their pain and anger out on Troy Westwood.
Troy rebounded nicely in season 2 hitting 31 of 41 on the year including 2 for 2 in the Ballers 2nd straight opening round playoff loss. But Troy really shone in season 3 going 67 for 76 including 37/39 from 40 yards or less. This performance would net him the league leader award for field goals made.
Troy returns to the scene of the crime and has nothing on his mind except for hitting field goals.
"It's been a tough road getting to where I am now but I believe that I've become miles better than I was back then. This team as a whole is much better than we were back then and have made huge strides this season over last season. Look at the stats, we've attemped 56 less field goals this season while attempting 18 more PATs so that shows that we are scoring more and settling for less field goals. We also punted 19 times less this season so we are definitely moving in the right direction. Drinkin' is going to be in for a heck of a fight today and we're walking away victorious," Kicker Troy Westwood.
It will definitely be an uphill battle for an improved Ballers team who has won their last 6 in a row but they are facing a team that has won their last 17 in a row. The Ballers were the team that came the closest to beating Drinkin' with a 24-20 lead at the half and a 31-30 lead to start the 4th quarter. The Ballers would pull ahead to 38-37 but Drinkin' would pull ahead in the dying minutes to win 47-38.
Troy Westwood isn't the only one predicting a victory as WR Ryan Betesta is also jumping on board. Betesta has made great promises in the past including his last one on Canada Day when he vowed to get atleast 134 yards receiving and managed 141 yards, could this be what the Ballers need to win?
"We proved last time that we can hang with Drinkin' and this time, we've put the pieces of the puzzle together and we got these guys figured out. Our offense is clicking and our defense is hungry to stop these guys from going undefeated into the championship game like we did. Look for a huge game from our passing attack and we should be victorious," WR Ryan Betesta.
Spirits are certainly high in the Ballers locker room as one of the biggest games in Ballers history is about to go down. Stay tuned for highlights.
A brief history lesson for those of you that are new to Baller football. Season 1, first round of the playoffs, #1 seeded Drinkin' hosting the #8 seed Ballers. Troy Westwood misses a 20 yard chip shot in the first quarter of the game. The Ballers end up losing 17-16 and despite going 3 for 3 in his remaining field goals of the game, the fans still take their pain and anger out on Troy Westwood.
Troy rebounded nicely in season 2 hitting 31 of 41 on the year including 2 for 2 in the Ballers 2nd straight opening round playoff loss. But Troy really shone in season 3 going 67 for 76 including 37/39 from 40 yards or less. This performance would net him the league leader award for field goals made.
Troy returns to the scene of the crime and has nothing on his mind except for hitting field goals.
"It's been a tough road getting to where I am now but I believe that I've become miles better than I was back then. This team as a whole is much better than we were back then and have made huge strides this season over last season. Look at the stats, we've attemped 56 less field goals this season while attempting 18 more PATs so that shows that we are scoring more and settling for less field goals. We also punted 19 times less this season so we are definitely moving in the right direction. Drinkin' is going to be in for a heck of a fight today and we're walking away victorious," Kicker Troy Westwood.
It will definitely be an uphill battle for an improved Ballers team who has won their last 6 in a row but they are facing a team that has won their last 17 in a row. The Ballers were the team that came the closest to beating Drinkin' with a 24-20 lead at the half and a 31-30 lead to start the 4th quarter. The Ballers would pull ahead to 38-37 but Drinkin' would pull ahead in the dying minutes to win 47-38.
Troy Westwood isn't the only one predicting a victory as WR Ryan Betesta is also jumping on board. Betesta has made great promises in the past including his last one on Canada Day when he vowed to get atleast 134 yards receiving and managed 141 yards, could this be what the Ballers need to win?
"We proved last time that we can hang with Drinkin' and this time, we've put the pieces of the puzzle together and we got these guys figured out. Our offense is clicking and our defense is hungry to stop these guys from going undefeated into the championship game like we did. Look for a huge game from our passing attack and we should be victorious," WR Ryan Betesta.
Spirits are certainly high in the Ballers locker room as one of the biggest games in Ballers history is about to go down. Stay tuned for highlights.
Thursday, September 4, 2008
"Back in Blacksburg" Playoffs Begin
North Delta Huskies (11-5)
@
Blacksburg Ballers (12-4)
BLACKSBURG, VA - With the regular season in the books, the Blacksburg Ballers have so far delivered on their goals for the 4th Season. The "Back in Blacksburg" campaign was focused on bringing back the all-stars, bringing a playoff game back to Blacksburg and the last goal that is on every players mind, bringing another conference championship.
In their first season in the CPL, the Ballers rose to the occassion against some tough competition walking away with a 12-4 record to show for their efforts. Its not 16-0 season but in the first year in the CPL, its a pretty damn good record. The Ballers suffered defeat at the hands of the #1 Drinkin Hellraisers, #2 Yukon Gold Rush, #3 Moose Jaw Fighting Hobos and #6 GDS Revolution.
What is most shocking about this season is the level of play that has increased amongst the players. No one thought Khari Jones could top last seasons performance, but he did, shattering records across the board. Ryan Betesta, Derek Pacheco and Jesse Lumsden also saw similiar success in breaking records and as a whole, the team smashed several club records as well.
This increase in play, as well as several key free agent signings this year has made this the 2nd best Ballers overall record and the 4th straight playoff seed for the Ballers.
Today, they look to advance to the 2nd round of the playoffs for only the 2nd time in their 4-year tenure against the #5 seeded North Delta Huskies who the Ballers hosted in the Ballers Bowl only two weeks ago.
The Ballers came out swinging and would go up 28-3 midway through the 2nd quarter with scores from Lumsden, Michael Silver, Betesta and Nuggetout but would see their lead falter in the 2nd half as the Huskies would pass for over 500 yards total and 5 TDs to tie the game up in the dying minutes to send it to overtime. The defense would make a big stand and the offense marched down the field to set up a Troy Westwood field goal that would clinch 4th spot for the Ballers and a home playoff game today.
The Ballers are looking to be on point today and not squander any early leads as this Huskies team can make you pay if you let them. The fans are ready, the coaches are ready, the Ballers are ready, its Ballers playoff football and it starts today!
@
Blacksburg Ballers (12-4)
BLACKSBURG, VA - With the regular season in the books, the Blacksburg Ballers have so far delivered on their goals for the 4th Season. The "Back in Blacksburg" campaign was focused on bringing back the all-stars, bringing a playoff game back to Blacksburg and the last goal that is on every players mind, bringing another conference championship.
In their first season in the CPL, the Ballers rose to the occassion against some tough competition walking away with a 12-4 record to show for their efforts. Its not 16-0 season but in the first year in the CPL, its a pretty damn good record. The Ballers suffered defeat at the hands of the #1 Drinkin Hellraisers, #2 Yukon Gold Rush, #3 Moose Jaw Fighting Hobos and #6 GDS Revolution.
What is most shocking about this season is the level of play that has increased amongst the players. No one thought Khari Jones could top last seasons performance, but he did, shattering records across the board. Ryan Betesta, Derek Pacheco and Jesse Lumsden also saw similiar success in breaking records and as a whole, the team smashed several club records as well.
This increase in play, as well as several key free agent signings this year has made this the 2nd best Ballers overall record and the 4th straight playoff seed for the Ballers.
Today, they look to advance to the 2nd round of the playoffs for only the 2nd time in their 4-year tenure against the #5 seeded North Delta Huskies who the Ballers hosted in the Ballers Bowl only two weeks ago.
The Ballers came out swinging and would go up 28-3 midway through the 2nd quarter with scores from Lumsden, Michael Silver, Betesta and Nuggetout but would see their lead falter in the 2nd half as the Huskies would pass for over 500 yards total and 5 TDs to tie the game up in the dying minutes to send it to overtime. The defense would make a big stand and the offense marched down the field to set up a Troy Westwood field goal that would clinch 4th spot for the Ballers and a home playoff game today.
The Ballers are looking to be on point today and not squander any early leads as this Huskies team can make you pay if you let them. The fans are ready, the coaches are ready, the Ballers are ready, its Ballers playoff football and it starts today!
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
End of Season Awards
MVP
Midseason pick: QB, Khari Jones
Winner: QB, Khari Jones
Final standings
1. QB, Khari Jones
2. WR, Ryan Betesta
3. DE, derek pacheco
4. DE, Speed McLovin
5. HB, Jesse Lumsden
Jones finished the year strong leading the Ballers to victories over the playoff bound Winnipeg Jets and the Ballers first round opponent, the North Delta Huskies. After a field day against the Miami Energy, Jones finished the year with some astounding statistical accomplishments. He was 3rd in Canada Pro with 4,879 yds, 2nd in TD passes with 37, and bettered his previous year's QB rating by 12 points raising it to 99.4. For Jones' on the field contributions and leadership there is no reason why he does not deserve the MVP award.
Offensive Player of the Year
Midseason pick: WR, Ryan Betesta
Winner: WR, Ryan Betesta
Final Standings
1. WR, Ryan Betesta
2. QB, Khari Jones
3. HB, Jesse Lumsden
4. OT, Fatty McMuffin
5. TE, Dirk Ilicious
While it was incredibly close between Jones and Betesta, the offensive player of the year award for season 4 goes to Ryan Betesta. His late season surge and astounding numbers put him at the top. He was 5th in Canada Pro with 111 receptions, 2nd in yds with 1,497.5, and 3rd in TD's with 14. He led the Ballers in every receiving category and has been QB, Khari Jones' favorite and most productive target the past 2 seasons. Ryan Betesta had another stellar season and certainly deserved the award of offensive player of the year.
Defensive Player of the Year
Midseason pick: derek pacheco
Winner: derek pacheco
Final Standings
1. DE, derek pacheco
2. DE, Speed McLovin
3. S, Silent Earth
4. CB, Beast Baily
5. S, Michael Silver
pacheco had the epitome of a breakout year this season. After recording only 4 sacks his first 3 years as a Baller, pacheco stepped up to the starting role at DE and had a magnificent year. He recorded 29 sacks good enough for 4th in Canada Pro and 14 hurries which is tied for 9th in the league. He also had 54 tackles and provided constant pressure on opposing quarterbacks the entire year. pacheco made a huge impact on the field and teamed up with Speed McLovin, made a fearsome tandem at DE.
Rookie of the Year
Midseason pick: WR, James Vita
Winner: TE, Dirk Ilicious
Final Standings
1. TE, Dirk Ilicious
2. WR, James Vita
3. WR, Landon Swifty
4. CB, Mr McKelvin
While James Vita had an excellent season for the Ballers, Dirk Ilicious's season can not go unnoticed either and for a TE it was especially impressive. Ilicious finished with 62 receptions for 744.5 yds and 6 TD's. He was a large target for Khari Jones and 3rd on the team in receiving.
Most Improved
Midseason pick: DE, derek pacheco
Winner: DE, derek pacheco
Final Standings
1. DE, derek pacheco
2. QB, Khari Jones
3. HB, Jesse Lumsden
4. P, Shia LaBeouf
5. WR, Landon Swifty
pacheco was the clear winner in this category. He recorded just 4 sacks in his first 3 years as a Baller and then proceeded to earn 29 sacks this year and break the previous record held by Speed McLovin. The play of pacheco was integral to the Ballers success and his improvement was nothing short of excellent.
Sportsmanship Award
Midseason pick: CB, Beast Baily
Winner: OG, Joe Pancake
Final Standings
1. OG, Joe Pancake
2. CB, Beast Baily
3. DE, Speed McLovin
4. QB, Khari Jones
5. DT, McClinton James
Joe joined the team midseason and made an instant impact on the offense and the team chemistry. His positive attitude and ability to rally together the offensive line helped Jesse Lumsden to one of his best seasons yet and keep Khari Jones upright during games.
Midseason pick: QB, Khari Jones
Winner: QB, Khari Jones
Final standings
1. QB, Khari Jones
2. WR, Ryan Betesta
3. DE, derek pacheco
4. DE, Speed McLovin
5. HB, Jesse Lumsden
Jones finished the year strong leading the Ballers to victories over the playoff bound Winnipeg Jets and the Ballers first round opponent, the North Delta Huskies. After a field day against the Miami Energy, Jones finished the year with some astounding statistical accomplishments. He was 3rd in Canada Pro with 4,879 yds, 2nd in TD passes with 37, and bettered his previous year's QB rating by 12 points raising it to 99.4. For Jones' on the field contributions and leadership there is no reason why he does not deserve the MVP award.
Offensive Player of the Year
Midseason pick: WR, Ryan Betesta
Winner: WR, Ryan Betesta
Final Standings
1. WR, Ryan Betesta
2. QB, Khari Jones
3. HB, Jesse Lumsden
4. OT, Fatty McMuffin
5. TE, Dirk Ilicious
While it was incredibly close between Jones and Betesta, the offensive player of the year award for season 4 goes to Ryan Betesta. His late season surge and astounding numbers put him at the top. He was 5th in Canada Pro with 111 receptions, 2nd in yds with 1,497.5, and 3rd in TD's with 14. He led the Ballers in every receiving category and has been QB, Khari Jones' favorite and most productive target the past 2 seasons. Ryan Betesta had another stellar season and certainly deserved the award of offensive player of the year.
Defensive Player of the Year
Midseason pick: derek pacheco
Winner: derek pacheco
Final Standings
1. DE, derek pacheco
2. DE, Speed McLovin
3. S, Silent Earth
4. CB, Beast Baily
5. S, Michael Silver
pacheco had the epitome of a breakout year this season. After recording only 4 sacks his first 3 years as a Baller, pacheco stepped up to the starting role at DE and had a magnificent year. He recorded 29 sacks good enough for 4th in Canada Pro and 14 hurries which is tied for 9th in the league. He also had 54 tackles and provided constant pressure on opposing quarterbacks the entire year. pacheco made a huge impact on the field and teamed up with Speed McLovin, made a fearsome tandem at DE.
Rookie of the Year
Midseason pick: WR, James Vita
Winner: TE, Dirk Ilicious
Final Standings
1. TE, Dirk Ilicious
2. WR, James Vita
3. WR, Landon Swifty
4. CB, Mr McKelvin
While James Vita had an excellent season for the Ballers, Dirk Ilicious's season can not go unnoticed either and for a TE it was especially impressive. Ilicious finished with 62 receptions for 744.5 yds and 6 TD's. He was a large target for Khari Jones and 3rd on the team in receiving.
Most Improved
Midseason pick: DE, derek pacheco
Winner: DE, derek pacheco
Final Standings
1. DE, derek pacheco
2. QB, Khari Jones
3. HB, Jesse Lumsden
4. P, Shia LaBeouf
5. WR, Landon Swifty
pacheco was the clear winner in this category. He recorded just 4 sacks in his first 3 years as a Baller and then proceeded to earn 29 sacks this year and break the previous record held by Speed McLovin. The play of pacheco was integral to the Ballers success and his improvement was nothing short of excellent.
Sportsmanship Award
Midseason pick: CB, Beast Baily
Winner: OG, Joe Pancake
Final Standings
1. OG, Joe Pancake
2. CB, Beast Baily
3. DE, Speed McLovin
4. QB, Khari Jones
5. DT, McClinton James
Joe joined the team midseason and made an instant impact on the offense and the team chemistry. His positive attitude and ability to rally together the offensive line helped Jesse Lumsden to one of his best seasons yet and keep Khari Jones upright during games.
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