USFL 2K | FBPro98

[Truck_Turner 19]

2003 Season Opener

Washington Federals (1-0)       7  3  7  6 -- 23
New Jersey Generals (0-1)       0  6 10  0 -- 16

First Quarter
Washington - James 3 run (McGuire kick), 10:35

Second Quarter
Washington - McGuire 33 FG, 6:33
New Jersey - Vanderjagt  39 FG, 9:53
New Jersey - Vanderjagt  32 FG, 14:20

Third Quarter
New Jersey - Bates 19 pass from Griese (Vanderjagt  kick), 2:32
Washington - Bradford 19 pass from Hasselbeck (McGuire kick), 7:38
New Jersey - Vanderjagt  37 FG, 14:06

Fourth Quarter
Washington - McGuire 54 FG, 6:39
Washington - McGuire 18 FG, 12:14

Washington Kicks off the 2003 season with a tough defensive battle against New Jersey.  Newly signed, New Jersey QB Brian Griese, the former Denver Gold QB, struggled mightily against the Washington Federals pass defense (17/33 161yds 1TD 2INT) and could not gain any rhythm with his new team.  Washington QB Matt Hasselbeck was efficient (13/19 128yds 1TD) and HB Edgerrin James, back from his season ending injury last season, gained tough yards and moved the chains when needed (26 car, 95 yds, 1TD, 1FUM).

 

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Washington K Derek McGuire (3/3 FGs, 2/2 XPs)
Defensive Player of the Game - Washington S Kiwaukee Thomas (Sack, Interception, 0/4 when targeted in passing game)

 

[Truck_Turner 19]

Philadelphia Stars (0-1)        3  0  0 15 -- 18
Boston Breakers (1-0)           0 10 10 10 -- 30

First Quarter
Philadelphia - Graham  26 FG, 6:44

Second Quarter
Boston - Hall 37 FG, 0:04
Boston - Ward 77 punt return (Hall kick), 14:48

Third Quarter
Boston - Hall 53 FG, 4:12
Boston - Hoover  1 pass from Culpepper (Hall kick), 7:21

Fourth Quarter
Philadelphia - Reed 27 pass from Brady (Graham  kick), 0:08
Boston - Hoover  2 run (Hall kick), 6:51
Philadelphia - Morris 44 pass from Brady (Stecker  run), 13:13
Boston - Hall 50 FG, 13:39

Boston begins what I personally feel will be a strong season with a win against the still hapless Philadelphia Stars.  Though none of the offenses set the world on fire (Boston 291 total yards, Philly 235 total yards), the two defenses played great (Bostone LB Steve Foley was an animal this game) and the score would have been closer had Philadelphia K Shayne Graham not missed 2 field goals.  Boston QB Daunte Culpepper struggled (14/27 164yds 1td 1int) and Philadelphia QB Tom Brady struggled more (24/51 255yd 2td 1int).  The two running games were not successful (Boston gained 3.2 yards per carry, Philly gained 3.8 yards per carry).  Really, the only offensive player on either team that had a nice game was Philadelphia WR Josh Reed (7cat 92yds 1td).

Though I am sure Boston is headed for a playoff-caliber season based on their tough defense, the same can not be said for Philadelphia.  They could not sign any of the premium free agents this year and their rookie class are going to need multiple development years to be able to help the team, so I suspect Philadelphia is going to struggle again.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Boston K Jeff Hall (3/3 FGs, 1/1XP)

Defensive Player of the Game - Boston LB Steve Foley (4 sacks, 1 tackle for loss, 2 run stops, 1 pass deflected)

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Chicago Blitz (0-1)          3 14  0  3 -- 20
Michigan Panthers (1-0)      0 13 14  7 -- 34

First Quarter
Chicago - Edinger 41 FG, 9:37

Second Quarter
Michigan - Lindell  35 FG, 0:12
Chicago - Edwards 23 pass from Hamilton (Edinger kick), 5:07
Michigan - Lindell  52 FG, 7:04
Chicago - Davenport 1 run (Edinger kick), 10:00
Michigan - Smith 12 pass from Brooks (Lindell  kick), 12:34

Third Quarter
Michigan - Jackson 1 run (Lindell  kick), 3:45
Michigan - Alexander 45 run (Lindell  kick), 12:03

Fourth Quarter
Michigan - Bryson 1 run (Lindell  kick), 0:42
Chicago - Edinger 27 FG, 4:49

Michigan begins their title defense with a huge 3rd and 4th quarter to defeat Chicago at home.  Michigan ran all over the Chicago defense behine HB Shaun Alexander (17car 187yds 1td) and HB Shawn Bryson (10car 87yds).  Michigan QB Aaron Brooks was efficient and moved the chains (14/21 217yds 1td) thowing for 8 1st downs.  Michigan's defense was led thier front four, most notably by free agent signee DE Jevon Kearse (signed away from Boston) and perrenial all-pro DT Anthony McFarland.

Chicago's running backs put in monstrous performances both on the ground (HB Jamal Lewis 15car 147yds) and through the air (HB Sammy Morris 6cat 112yds), but it wasn't enough to make up for the shoddy run defense.  QB Joe Hamilton (21/37 280yds 1td 1int) played well, but the interception was an end zone interception that could have gotten the team within a touchdown in the 4th quarter.  I think Chicago will win more than the 3 games they won last season if they can tighten their run defense up.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Michigan HB Shaun Alexander (17car 187yds 1td)

Defensive Players of the Game - Michigan DE Jevon Kearse (1 sack, 1 QB hit, 3 tackles for loss, 3 run stops)

                                                         Michigan CB Renaldo Hill (2 forced fumbles, 1 run stop, 1 pass deflected)

[Ejahner42 1]

This has been a joy to follow!

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Tampa Bay Bandits (1-0)        7 21  7  7 -- 42
Birmingham Stallions (0-1)     7 14  0  7 -- 28

First Quarter
Birmingham - Wayne 15 pass from Manning (Dawson  kick), 9:59
Tampa Bay - Burress 1 pass from Bulger (Brown kick), 10:32

Second Quarter
Tampa Bay - Burress 55 pass from Bulger (Brown kick), 2:59
Birmingham - Manning 2 run (Dawson  kick), 9:56
Tampa Bay - Taylor 2 run (Brown kick), 10:25
Birmingham - Branch 88 kickoff return (Dawson  kick), 10:46
Tampa Bay - Burress 13 pass from Bulger (Brown kick), 13:54

Third Quarter
Tampa Bay - Burress 29 pass from Bulger (Brown kick), 8:14

Fourth Quarter
Tampa Bay - Taylor 55 run (Brown kick), 3:13
Birmingham - Collins 6 pass from Manning (Dawson  kick), 11:54

This was a very weird game.  Birmingham's pass rush PUMMELED  Tampa Bay QB Marc Bulger (19/31 236yds 4td 2int) all game long.  Bulger was sacked 8 times and hit 11 /different times.  In all of my years playing this game, I have never seen a pass rush so relentless.  So why did Birmingham lose?  For one, Birmingham's secondary was trash this game.  When Bulger did have time to throw, he connected with WR Plaxico Burress (6cat 119yds 4td) for 4 touchdowns.  Another reason was allowing big plays despite the severe pass rush Tampa Bay was facing. 

Tampa Bay had a forgettable season last year, but they always had the pieces on offense to destroy defenses.  WR Randy Moss, WR Plaxico Burress and HB Fred Taylor are all Hall-of-Fame type talents and if Tampa Bay has improved their defense enough (they really did not add anything via free agency, but drafted a bucnh of defensive players that will contribute down the road), they will be in the playoff hunt.

Birmingham's offense did not support their defense.  QB Peyton Manning was pedestrian (16/33 179yds 2td 2int) and despite a good running game (144 total yards and 4.8 yards per carry), Birmingham could not keep up with the scoring onslaught of Tampa Bay's offense.  Birmingham had an up and down season last year and as QB Payton Manning goes, so goes the team.  If he plays well, they usually win, especially with the good defense the usually have.  If he plays poorly, they do not have the horses on offense to make up for that, so they usually lose.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Tampa Bay WR Plaxico Burress (6cat 119yds 4td)

Defensive Player of the Game - Tampa Bay DT Ron Edwards (2 sacks, 2 tackles for loss, 3 run stops, 1 QB Hit, 1 forced fumble)

[Truck_Turner 19]

Arizona Wranglers (0-1)          7  6  0  3 -- 16
Oakland Invaders (1-0)          14  7  7  0 -- 28

First Quarter
Oakland - WR Torrey Holt 6 pass from QB Drew Brees (Feely kick), 3:07
Arizona - FB Robert Thomas  54 run (Gramatica kick), 5:26
Oakland - WR Jabbar Gaffney 26 pass from QB Drew Brees (Feely kick), 13:19

Second Quarter
Arizona - Gramatica 29 FG, 2:12
Arizona - Gramatica 41 FG, 7:26
Oakland - WR Andre Johnson 7 pass from QB Drew Brees (Feely kick), 12:24

Third Quarter
Oakland - HB Jamel White 4 run (Feely kick), 13:40

Fourth Quarter
Arizona - Gramatica 41 FG, 3:50

The main story of this game is Oakland scored touchdowns while Arizona scored field goals.  Oakland pretty much dominated the time of possession (34 minutes to 26 minutes) via the running game (Oakland gained 219 total yards on the ground)  behind the stellar efforts of HB Rueben Droughns (16car 135yds).  Oakland's starting QB, after sitting on the bench for two whole seasons, is 3rd year vet QB Drew Brees, who played well despite two turnovers (26/40 270yds 3td 2int).  Though Oakland's defense did not play particularly well (gave up 132 yards on the ground), they did hold the Arizona offense to 186 total passing yards.

Arizona QB Donovan McNabb struggled mightily (20/40 203yds 0td 1int) and could not convert in the red zone.  On defense, Arizona coould not get off the field allowing 6/11 3rd down conversions.   Hopefully, they can play better as the 2KFL West conference will be a meat grinder like it was last season with Denver and Oakland being quality teams.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Oakland HB Rueben Drougns (16car 135yds, 4cat 56yds)

Defensive Player of the Game - Arizona LB Larry Foote (2 sacks, 2 QB hits, 2 passes deflected)

[Truck_Turner 19]

Los Angeles Express (0-1)      0 13  3  0 -- 16
Denver Gold (1-0)              7  0  0 13 -- 20

First Quarter
Denver - QB Shaun King 3 run (Janikowski kick), 5:31

Second Quarter
Los Angeles - Brown 20 FG, 3:17
Los Angeles - Brown 33 FG, 7:41
Los Angeles - WR Javon Walker 12 pass from Batch (Brown kick), 13:25

Third Quarter
Los Angeles - Brown 31 FG, 7:36

Fourth Quarter
Denver - Janikowski 27 FG, 0:12
Denver - Janikowski 19 FG, 7:53
Denver - HB Anthony Thomas 5 run (Janikowski kick), 14:06

A furious 4th quarter comeback is what it took for Denver to begin their 2003 campaign on a winning note.  An early 1st quarter fumble at the goalline for Los Angeles, denied them a TD and that early error ended up costing them the game.  Denver's offense was led by former Chicago QB Shaun King, who was desperately signed after last year's starting QB (Brian Griese) was signed away by New Jersey.  Just like the offenses he led in Chicago, QB Shaun King struggled and could not push the ball down the field (16/30 182yds 0td 1int).  Los Angeles actually out gained Denver in total yardage (305 to 274), but their starting QB Charlie Batch was just as bad as King (15/29 143yds 1td 1int).  

The defenses were the story of this game and Denver's LB Brian Urlacher was making plays all over the field and was the defensive player of the game.  On the other side, Los Angeles LB Keith Bulluck (4 run stops, 1 QB hit, 2 tackles for loss, 1 pass deflected) was instrumental in Los Angeles hold Denver's offense in check until the 4th quarter meltdown. 

Denver is going to have a hard time getting back to the championship game with QB Shaun King at the helm.  Though his ratings are decent, he has low endurance, which affects his throws in the 4th quarter.  His backups are QB Giovanni Carmazzi and rookie QB Rex Grossman, so I am sure the coach will be looking to make a change if King  contines to struggle.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Los Angeles HB Clinton Portis (21car 129yds, 2cat 17yds)

Defensive Player of the Game - Denver LB Brian Urlacher (1 sack, 2 tackles for loss, 3 run stops, 1 pass defelcted)

[Truck_Turner 19]

 2KFL League Standings
         Week 1
        Atlantic
                            W    L    T    PF    PA    Str        
            Boston          1    0    0    30    18    W1      
            Washington      1    0    0    23    16    W1        
            Philadelphia    0    1    0    18    30    L1         
            New Jersey      0    1    0    16    23    L1         
        Central
                            W    L    T    PF    PA    Str          
            Tampa Bay       1    0    0    42    28    W1         
            Michigan        1    0    0    34    20    W1         
            Birmingham      0    1    0    28    42    L1         
            Chicago         0    1    0    20    34    L1         
        Pacific
                            W    L    T    PF    PA    Str        
            Oakland         1    0    0    28    16    W1         
            Denver          1    0    0    20    16    W1        
            Los Angeles     0    1    0    16    20    L1         
            Arizona         0    1    0    16    28    L1         

 

PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Offensive - Tampa Bay WR Plaxico Burress (6cat 119yds 4td)

Defensive - Tampa Bay DT Ron Edwards (2 sacks, 2 tackles for losses, 1 QB hit, 3 run stops, 1 forced fumble)

Rookie - Arizona DE Terrell Suggs (2 tackles for losses, 2 QB Hits, 2 run stops)

 

WEEK 2 SCHEDULE

        Oakland (1-0)         at    Philadelphia   (0-1)  
        New Jersey (0-1)      at    Michigan (1-0)        
        Denver (1-0)          at    Chicago (0-1)         
        Washington (1-0)      at    Birmingham  (0-1)     
        Boston (1-0)          at    Los Angeles (0-1)     
        Tampa Bay (1-0)       at    Arizona (0-1)   

 

 

Week 1 Major Injuries and Suspensions

Boston starting DE Lamar King fractured his tibia and will be out for 5 weeks.  Boston will not sign anyone to take his place.

Chicago starting CB Patrick Surtain sprained his ankle and is questionable for the next 3 weeks.

New Jersey starting C Jeff Saturday hyper-extended his knee and will be out for the next 4 weeks.  New Jersey will not sign anyone to take his place.

 

Edited March 25, 2020 by Truck_Turner

[Truck_Turner 19]

Doing something a tad different this season.  Using the PREVIEW utility, I will be providing predictions this season.  Preview utilizes stats and matchups to provide a score prediction:

 

        Oakland (1-0)         at    Philadelphia   (0-1)  Prediction -  Oak 29 Phi 20
        New Jersey (0-1)      at    Michigan (1-0)        Prediction -  Mch 32 NJ 18       
        Denver (1-0)          at    Chicago (0-1)         Prediction -  Den 27 Chi 21
        Washington (1-0)      at    Birmingham  (0-1)     Prediction -  Was 33 Bir 25
        Boston (1-0)          at    Los Angeles (0-1)     Prediction -  Bos 25 LA 20
        Tampa Bay (1-0)       at    Arizona (0-1)         Prediction -  TB 35 Ari 25

 

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Oakland Invaders (2-0)          0 21  3  3 -- 27
Philadelphia Stars (0-2)        3 10  0  7 -- 20

First Quarter
Philadelphia - Graham  42 FG, 8:00

Second Quarter
Oakland - Betts 64 pass from Smith (Feely kick), 4:22
Oakland - Droughns 2 run (Feely kick), 11:13
Philadelphia - Smith 86 kickoff return (Graham  kick), 11:34
Oakland - Gaffney 51 pass from Smith (Feely kick), 13:47
Philadelphia - Graham  52 FG, 15:00

Third Quarter
Oakland - Feely 22 FG, 5:58

Fourth Quarter
Oakland - Feely 19 FG, 0:51
Philadelphia - Moss 42 pass from Brady (Graham  kick), 15:00

A 2nd quarter explosion by Oakland pretty much put the game out of reach as the final score does not reflect the domination that Oakland enjoyed.  Oakland outgained Philadelphia 415-301 in total yardage behind the hard running of HB Rueben Droughns (27car 148yds 1 td) and the effective play of new Oakland starter QB Akili Smith (former starter QB Drew Brees had a blowup with the coaching staff this week and was demoted for the rest of the season) who got the ball out quickly and accurately while avoiding turnovers (16/21 205yds 2td).  Defensively, Oakland safeties menaced the Philadelphia WRs only allowing 2 catches out of 11 total targets while deflecting 6 of those targets.  Additionally, rookie LB E.J. Henderson was stout in run defense while earning defensive player of the game honors with good all-around play.

For Philadelphia, its more of the same.  QB Tom Brady was awful (11/32 181yds itd 1int) and severely hampered the Stars offense despite a thowback game for 10 year vet HB Thomas Jones (24car 124yds), who was outstanding.  Brady thrw a 3rd quarter interception in the endzone that could have decided the game.  Philadelphia's defense 2nd quarter play was backbreaking for the team, putting them in a hole they could not climb out of.  Philadelphia DE Adawale Ogunleye, returning from being out most of last year from injury, had a breakout performance (1 sack, 2 QB hits 1 tackle for loss, 1 run stop), but his performace was not enough to matter in the end.  Philadelphia is in for a long season yet again.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Oakland HB Rueben Droughns (27car 148yds 1td)

Defensive Players of the Game - Oakland LB E.J. Henderson (1 sack, 1 QB Hit, 1 tackle for loss, 4 run stops)

                                                          Oakland S Lance Schulters (1 interception, 1 sack, 2 run stops, 2 passes deflected)

Edited March 27, 2020 by Truck_Turner

[Truck_Turner 19]

New Jersey Generals (1-1)       0  0 14  7 -- 21
Michigan Panthers (1-1)         0  3  3  0 --  6

First Quarter
No scoring

Second Quarter
Michigan - Lindell  45 FG, 0:05

Third Quarter
New Jersey - WR Quentin McCord 21 pass from Griese (Vanderjagt  kick), 5:08
Michigan - Lindell  40 FG, 10:24
New Jersey - HB Earnest Graham 27 run (Vanderjagt  kick), 15:00

Fourth Quarter
New Jersey - HB Earnest Graham 7 run (Vanderjagt  kick), 8:43

In kind of a must win game, New Jersey traveled to Michigan with a novel approach; run the ball down Michigan's throat and see if they could stop us.  That gameplan proved successful, as New Jersey ran the ball 46 times and only passed the ball 10 times.  New Jersey QB Brian Griese, did not have to do much (8/10 105yds 1td) as New Jersey HB's Travis Henry (20car 86yds), Dominic Rhodes (18car 104yds) and rookie Earnest Graham (5car 35yds 2td) were the stars of this game, along with the New Jersey offensive line plowing holes through the Michigan front 7.  Defensively, New Jersey's Linebacking Corps (Bart Scott, Jeff Posey and Antonio Pierce) controlled Michigan HB Shaun Alexander as well as intercepted 2 passes in the passing game.  The Linebacker position is so important in the 2KFL and New Jersey having the best one in the league (LB Bart Scott) makes their defense so much more potent than other teams.  The defense also held Michigan to 3/11 on 3rd down, which was critical throughout the game.

Michigan QB Aaron Brooks did not play well (13/26 135yds 0td 2int, 4car 28yds) and HB Shaun Alexander  was held in check all game (17car 68yds, 4cat 27yds).  Michigan's offense just could not gain any continuity turning the ball over 3 times (2int 1fum).  On defense, Michigan allowed  New Jersey to run all over them (238 yards) and could not get off of the field on 3rd down, allowing New Jersey to convert 6/13 3rd downs into 1st downs.  Bad all-around game for Michigan at home. 

 

Offensive Players of the Game - New Jersey Running backs

Defensive Player of the game - New Jersey LB Bart Scott (1 sack, 1 interception, 1 QB hit, 1 run stop, 1 forced fumble)

[Truck_Turner 19]

Denver Gold (2-0)           7 28  0  6 -- 41
Chicago Blitz (0-2)         7 10  0  3 -- 20

First Quarter
Denver - FB Rocky Cartwright 1 pass from King (Janikowski kick), 2:51
Chicago - HB Sammy Morris 55 pass from Hamilton (Edinger kick), 5:56

Second Quarter
Denver - HB Anthony Thomas 14 pass from King (Janikowski kick), 1:25
Chicago - WR Travis Taylor 21 pass from Hamilton (Edinger kick), 3:46
Denver - WR Brandon Stokley 11 pass from King (Janikowski kick), 7:20
Denver - FB Rocky Cartwright 1 pass from King (Janikowski kick), 10:29
Denver - HB Kevin Faulk 3 run (Janikowski kick), 12:02
Chicago - Edinger 40 FG, 14:32

Third Quarter
No scoring

Fourth Quarter
Chicago - Edinger 25 FG, 4:11
Denver - WR Brandon Stokley 16 pass from King (kick failed), 14:30

Denver QB Shaun King  (former starting Chicago QB that was unceremoniously benched last season) had to have had this game marked on his calendar after signing with Denver in the offseason. He must have been intent on enacting revenge on his former team and boy did he do it.  King was AMAZING (24/31 323yds 5td 1int, 7car 45yds).  This was the best performance of his career, BY FAR, and he absolutely shredded the Chicago secondary all game long.  If Denver get this kind of Quarterback play the rest of the season, they will win the title, no doubt about it.  Denver defense forced 3 turnovers (2int, 1fum) which allowed them to stop a pretty good Chicago offense.

Chicago QB Joe Hamilton played decently (23/34 251yds 2td 2int), but was responsible for those 3 turnovers, killing his team's chance to win.  One of his strengths last season was taking care of the ball (only 1 interception in 6 games started).  This season has been another story with the turnovers so far (3int, 1fum) and he has to clean that up for Chicago to have any chance to win; their defense just isn't strong enough to cover for his mistakes, like he had in the second quarter allowing Denver to score 21 straight points off of his turnovers.  Chicago's defensive secondary was awful and some changes may have to be made of this continues.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Denver QB Shaun King (24/31 323yds 5td 1int, 7car 45yds)

Defensive Players of the Game - Denver LB Rosevelt Colvin (1 sack, 3 run stops, 1 forced fumble, 2 fumble recoveries)

                                                          Denver CB Artrell Hawkins (1 interception, 1 forced fumble, 2 passes deflected, 0/4 in pass defense targets)

[Truck_Turner 19]

Washington      14 14  7 10 -- 45
Birmingham       0  7  0  7 -- 14

First Quarter
Washington - FB Terry Jackson 6 run (McGuire kick), 4:52
Washington - WR Corey Bradford 19 pass from Hasselbeck (McGuire kick), 9:16

Second Quarter
Birmingham - WR Tim Dwight 3 pass from Manning (Dawson  kick), 0:15
Washington - QB Matt Hasselbeck 1 run (McGuire kick), 2:13
Washington - HB Edgerrin James 7 run (McGuire kick), 3:59

Third Quarter
Washington - WR Corey Bradford 6 pass from Hasselbeck (McGuire kick), 8:47

Fourth Quarter
Birmingham - WR Marty Booker 18 pass from Manning (Dawson  kick), 13:10
Washington - HB Edgerrin James 23 run (McGuire kick), 13:35
Washington - McGuire 36 FG, 14:30

Birmingham turned the ball over 5 times (3fum 2int) and against this Washington team, that is a recipe for disaster.  Washington's run game, led by Edgerrin James (21car 146yds 2td), rushed for 251 total yards and the Washington O-line plowed holes through the Birmingham front 7 all game long.  Washington QB Matt Hasselbeck (14/22 190yds 2td 2int) did not have to do much, but he did find WR Corey Bradford (6rec 130yds 2td) twice for long TDs. Defensively, Washington forced 5 turnovers, shut down the Brimingham offense (83 yards run, 197 yards pass) and harassed Birmingham QB Peyton Manning (22/39 217yds 2td 2int) all game long (4 sacks). 

Birmingham is at a a crossroads. Though their QB is the highest rated one in the game, he is just way to inconsistent, despite the receiving weapons he has (WR Deion Branch, WR Tim Dwight and WR Marty Booker are all quite capable and Branch is actually a stud).  One issue with the offense is he has never had a dependable run game, despite a pretty good offensive line, so finding a good running back is imperative (starting HB Ron Dayne is not going to cut it).  Until the offense is balanced, this team will always have these offense issues.  And defensively, Birmingham could not defend short fields created by 5 turnovers, so they can't be blamed much though their run defense has been atrocious so far. 

 

Offensive Players of the Game - Washington HB Edgerrin James

                                                         Washington WR Corey Bradford

Defensive Player of the Game - Birmingham LB Orlando Huff (1 sack, 1 interception, 1 run stop)

[Truck_Turner 19]

Boston Breakers (1-1)           0  7  0  7 -- 14
Los Angeles Express (1-1)       6 14  0 10 -- 30

First Quarter
Los Angeles - Brown 41 FG, 7:51
Los Angeles - Brown 24 FG, 14:49

Second Quarter
Los Angeles - WR Anquan Boldin 14 pass from Batch (Brown kick), 1:02
Los Angeles - HB Michael Bennett 12 pass from Batch (Brown kick), 13:33
Boston - HB LaDainian Tomlinson 34 pass from Culpepper (Hall kick), 14:28

Third Quarter
No scoring

Fourth Quarter
Boston - WR Brian Finneran  8 pass from Culpepper (Hall kick), 0:07
Los Angeles - Brown 47 FG, 3:11
Los Angeles - HB Brian Westbrook 34 pass from Carter (Brown kick), 13:13

In the 2KFL, the team with that turns the ball over the most  usually loses.  This game was no exception.  Boston turned the ball over 4 times (Los ANgeles only had 1 turnover), and that was that.  Los Angeles QB Charlie Batch (13/18 186yds 2td 1int), played well until he injured his ankle in the 3rd quarter, putting him out for the game.  In steps backup QB Quincy Carter, who played great in relief (8/13 91yds 1 td 0int).  Great QB play and a strong team running game (183yds and 5.3 yards per carry) was the story of the game for Los Angeles.  Defensively, LB Keith Bulluck was a demon on the field and was the defensive player of the game.  

Boston QB Daunte Culpepper played poorly (15/34 213yds 2td 1int 1 fumble lost) and thats all that really needs to be said. Though HB LaDainian Tomlinson played well in the passing game, his anemic running hurt the offense (4car 8yds, 4 cat 84yds 1td).  Tomlinson was a beast last year, but has only rushed for 59 yard so far this season. He has to step it up.  On defense, Boston's defense failed to show up allowing 443 total yards and allowing a 6/14 3rd down conversion rate.  Those numbers are not going to cut it.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Los Angeles WR Anquan Boldin (6cat 72yds 1td)

Defensive Player of the Game - Los Angeles LB Keith Bulluck (3 tackles for a loss, 5 run stops, 1 fumble recovery, 1 pass deflection)

 

[Truck_Turner 19]

Tampa Bay Bandits (2-0)        7  0  7 25 -- 39
Arizona Wranglers (0-2)        7 13  3  9 -- 32

First Quarter
Arizona - HB DeShaun Foster 2 run (Gramatica kick), 10:14
Tampa Bay - WR Randy Moss 60 pass from QB Marc Bulger (Brown kick), 11:59

Second Quarter
Arizona - WR Todd Pinkston 23 pass from QB Donovan McNabb (Gramatica kick), 8:29
Arizona - WR Todd Pinkston 33 pass from QB Donovan McNabb (kick failed), 14:26

Third Quarter
Arizona - Gramatica 49 FG, 3:48
Tampa Bay - HB Fred Taylor 1 run (Brown kick), 12:48

Fourth Quarter
Arizona - Safety (QB Marc Bulger tackled in endzone by DE Courtney Brown), 1:53
Tampa Bay - WR Plaxico Burress 2 pass from QB Marc Bulger (Brown kick), 8:04
Tampa Bay - HB Fred Taylor 1 run (Taylor run), 11:44
Tampa Bay - Brown 26 FG, 13:23
Arizona - WR Todd Pinkston 45 pass from Leaf (Gramatica kick), 14:14
Tampa Bay - T Brandon Winey 70 kickoff return (Brown kick), 14:33

This game had it all.  From deep bombs, to a safety, to a 25 point 4th quarter explosion by Tampa Bay and most of all, a walk-off kickoff return touchdown by a backup offensive tackle.  Yes, you read that correctly.  Down 32-25 with 1:09 left in the 4th quarter, Arizona back up QB Ryan Leaf (who was in for an injured QB Donovan McNabb) hits WR Todd Pinkston on a deep crossing route and run after the catch for a TD to tie the game 32-32 (after the xp).  On the ensuing kickoff, K Martin Gramatica squibs the lick down the middle of the field and, well, I will just show you what happens next:

 

 

This is the craziest kickoff return TD I have ever seen in this game and only the second walkoff TD I have seen as well.  

Tampa Bay's offense is just relentless.  Tampa Bay WRs Randy Moss (3cat 94yds 1 td) and  Plaxico Burress (9cat 109yds 1td) played magnificently and kept the offense alive while the Tampa Bay defense struggled (at one point Tampa was losing 23-7).  Tampa Bay QB Marc Bulger continues to play well (23/33 290yds 2td 1int) and HB Fred Taylor (15car 78yds 2td, 2cat 10yds) continues his consistent play. This offense is something else, man.  On defense, the struggle was real as the secondary was lit up early and often by the Arizona QBs (354 passing yards allowed) even though the defensive front 4 pressured the QB relentlessly with 15 total pressures

Arizona actually played pretty well until their defensive 4th quarter implosion.  Arizona QB Donovan McNabb (19/38 242yds 2td 1int) was sort of up and down until he was knocked out with a neck injury late in the 4th quarter (Tampa Bay DE Leonard Little put a huge hit on McNabb).  Backup QB Ryan Leaf came into the game with 2:35 left in the game and it was bombs away (4/6 123yds 1td).  Leaf was absolutely slinging the ball down field with impunity and actually gave them the lead for a short time.  Arizona WR Todd Pinkston (5cat 118yds 3td) has always had this kind of ability, but injuries have hampered his career.  Free Agent signee WR Joe Jurevicius (former Tampa Bay slot receiver) is a starter now and was outstanding (9cat 154yds).  Arizona was amazing on 3rd down (10/18 3rd down conversions) and were it not for the bad 4th quarter defense, Arizona would have won this game.  Their defense allowed (3) 4th quarter TD drives which is totally unacceptable.  And the awful special teams play as evidenced about was the coup de grace.  Arizona finished with a 7-5 record last season and could be hard pressed to repeat that record.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Arizona WR Todd Pinkston

Defensive Player of the Game - Arizona DE Courtney Brown (2 sacks, 1 safety, 3 QB pressures, 1 pass deflection)

Edited April 4, 2020 by Truck_Turner

[Truck_Turner 19]

WEEK 2 REVIEW

    2KFL League Standings
         Week 2
        Atlantic
                            W    L    T    PF    PA    Str       
            Washington      2    0    0    68    30    W2        
            Boston          1    1    0    44    48    L1         
            New Jersey      1    1    0    37    29    W1         
            Philadelphia    0    2    0    38    57    L2         
        Central
                            W    L    T    PF    PA    Str          
            Tampa Bay       2    0    0    81    60    W2         
            Michigan        1    1    0    40    41    L1         
            Birmingham      0    2    0    42    87    L2         
            Chicago         0    2    0    40    75    L2         
        Pacific
                            W    L    T    PF    PA    Str          
            Denver          2    0    0    61    36    W2         
            Oakland         2    0    0    55    36    W2         
            Los Angeles     1    1    0    46    34    W1         
            Arizona         0    2    0    48    67    L2         

 

PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Offensive - Washington WR Corey Bradford (6cat 130yds 2td)

Defensive - Los Angeles LB Keith Bulluck (3 tackles for loss, 5 run stops, 1 QB pressure, 1 fumble recovery, 1 pass deflection)

Rookie - Oakland LB E.J. Henderson (1 sack, 1 tackle for loss, 4 run stops, 3 QB pressures)

 

WEEK 3 SCHEDULE

    Week 3
        Boston (1-1)          at    Washington (2-0)      
        Philadelphia (0-2)    at    Chicago (0-2)         
        Michigan (1-1)        at    Tampa Bay (2-0)       
        Arizona (0-2)         at    Los Angeles (1-1)     
        New Jersey (1-1)      at    Oakland (2-0)         
        Birmingham (0-2)      at    Denver (2-0) 

 

KEY INJURIES AND SUSPENSIONS

Arizona QB Donovan McNabb will be out for 6 weeks with a neck injury.  They will not sign another player to take his place.

 

WEEK 3 PREDICTIONS

        Boston (1-1)          at    Washington (2-0)      Prediction - Washington 32 Boston 19
        Philadelphia (0-2)    at    Chicago (0-2)         Prediction - Philadelphia 28 Chicago 27
        Michigan (1-1)        at    Tampa Bay (2-0)       Prediction - Tampa Bay 34 Michigan 25
        Arizona (0-2)         at    Los Angeles (1-1)     Prediction - Los Angeles 31 Arizona 21
        New Jersey (1-1)      at    Oakland (2-0)         Prediction - Oakland 24 New Jersey 18
        Birmingham (0-2)      at    Denver (2-0)          Prediction - Denver 40 Birmingham 20

 

[Truck_Turner 19]

Boston Breakers (2-1)          10 10  0  0 -- 20
Washington Federals (2-1)       0  6  7  3 -- 16

First Quarter
Boston - Hall 36 FG, 5:30
Boston - S Roy Williams 52 fumble return (Hall kick), 14:50

Second Quarter
Boston - Hall 40 FG, 1:36
Washington - McGuire 46 FG, 3:05
Washington - McGuire 31 FG, 13:08
Boston - WR Brian Finneran  2 pass from Culpepper (Hall kick), 14:18

Third Quarter
Washington - FB Terry Jackson 2 run (McGuire kick), 8:16

Fourth Quarter
Washington - McGuire 28 FG, 10:03

When two of the best defenses in the league get together, you know the game is going to be a slog with offense tough to come by and big defensive plays.  This game did not disappoint.  Boston was outgained by Washington in yardage (235 to 280), but Boston won the turnover battle ( Washington turned the ball over 4 times while Boston turned it over 2 times) and that is what decided the game.  Boston QB  Daunte Culpepper did close to nothing this game (13/26 109yds 1td 1int, 2car 0yds) and though HB Ladainian Tomlinson played well (14car 82yds, 1cat 18yds, 3 total 1st downs (2 run 1 pass), the strong Boston defense is who won this game, led by LB Chris Claiborne (2 sacks, 1 QB hit, 4 run stops, 1 forced fumble).  Surprisingly, he is not the defensive player of the game though.

Washington just could not get out of their own way.  The 4 turnovers killed them and QB Matt Hasselbeck seems to have regressed a bit this season and this game was just another example (16/30 162yds 0td 2int, 4car 36yds).  Washington's offense just struggled all game long against Boston's defense and even HB Edgerrin James seemed to struggled (23car 84yds, 4 rushing 1st downs).  On Defense, Washington played great and LB Kailee Wong was a tour de force, having the best game of his career by far (1 sack, 1 run stop, 2 forced fumbles, 1 pass deflected).

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Washington HB Edgerrin James

Defensive Player of the Game - Washington LB Kailee Wong

[Truck_Turner 19]

Philadelphia Stars (0-3)     7 13  6  0 -- 26
Chicago Blitz (1-2)          9 14 14  0 -- 37

First Quarter
Chicago - Safety (Brady tackled in endzone by Nguyen), 7:37
Chicago - Lewis 6 run (Edinger kick), 9:47
Philadelphia - Brady 2 run (Graham  kick), 12:14

Second Quarter
Chicago - O'Neal 87 punt return (Edinger kick), 0:38
Philadelphia - Graham  33 FG, 6:00
Chicago - Lewis 14 run (Edinger kick), 8:22
Philadelphia - Scott 10 pass from Brady (Graham  kick), 11:42
Philadelphia - Graham  47 FG, 14:29

Third Quarter
Philadelphia - Graham  52 FG, 1:53
Chicago - Hamilton 11 run (Edinger kick), 3:36
Chicago - Lewis 64 run (Edinger kick), 6:51
Philadelphia - Graham  52 FG, 7:39

Philadelphia played well in the first half, but a decisive 3rd quarter by Chicago was all that was needed to send Philadelphia to their 3rd straight loss.  Both passing offenses were putrid.  Chicago QB Joe Hamilton (11/25 166yds, 4car 12yds) didn't really need to play well as HB Jamal Lewis (22car 175yds 3td, 2cat 26yds) was amazing and was all of the offense Chicago needed.  On defense, LB Keith Brooking (1 sack, 1 tackle for loss, 4 run stops) and LB Dat Nguyen (2 sacks, 1 QB hit, 1 safety, 1 run stop, 1 pass deflected) were all over the field, shutting down the ineffective Philadelphia offense and rookie DT Ian Scott (3 tackles for loss, 3 run stops, 1 QB hit) was a force in the middle in limited action (he did that damage in 20 plays).

Philadelphis QB Tom Brady (17/39 196yds 1td, 7car 46yds 1td) wasn't very effective and while the Philadelphia run game gained yardage (130 total yards), they just could not sustain drives (4/17 on 3rd downs).  Philadelphia's defense wasn't horrible against the pass, but allowed the Chicago run game to run wild (205 total yards and 6.5 yards per carry).  Philadelphia's nightmare season continues unabated.  This team can not catch a break.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Chicago HB Jamal Lewis

Defensive Players of the Game - Chicago LB Keith Brooking and LB Dat Nguyen

Edited April 10, 2020 by Truck_Turner

[shawk23 2]

Tremendous stuff. Loved this game back in the day and reading your league recaps makes me want to fire it back up!

[Truck_Turner 19]

Michigan Panthers (1-2)         0  3  0  3 --  6
Tampa Bay Bandits (3-0)        10  0  7  0 -- 17

First Quarter
Tampa Bay - Brown 29 FG, 5:03
Tampa Bay - HB Olandis Gary 29 run (Brown kick), 12:39

Second Quarter
Michigan - Lindell  23 FG, 14:59

Third Quarter
Tampa Bay - HB Olandis Gary 2 run (Brown kick), 4:26

Fourth Quarter
Michigan - Lindell  36 FG, 7:03

The good news is Michigan's defense held an offense that was averaging 41 points a game prior to this game to 17 points.  The bad news is the revamped Tampa Bay defense was like a brick wall all game long and only gave up 6 points.  Tampa Bay QB Marc Bulger was efficient (11/16 165yds) and the Tampa Bay rushing offense gained 143 yards (4.9 yards per carry), led by the steady HB Fred Taylor (17car 93yds, 2 cat 5yds) and backup HB Olandis Gary (8car 35yds 2td).  Tampa Bay's pass defense was relentless, sacking the Michigan QB 5 times and hitting him 10 additional times.

 

Michigan QB Aaron Brooks did not play well (20/40 183yds, 2car 5yds) and despite HB Shaun Alexander having a great game (17car 109yds, 2cat 22yds), Michigan was not able to put touchdown's on the board.  Michigan's defense was stout (and Herculean considering the prolific Tampa Bay offense), but their efforts were wasted by a lackluster offense.  Michigan's defense of their 2KFL championship is off to a rocky start.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Tampa Bay HB Olandis Gary

Defensive Player of the Game - Tampa Bay DT Ron Edwards (1 sack, 3 QB hits, 2 run stops, 1 forced fumble)

[Truck_Turner 19]

Arizona Wranglers (0-3)        7  7  3  7 -- 24
Los Angeles Express (2-1)      7  7  7  7 -- 28

First Quarter
Arizona - HB Deuce McAllister 40 run (Gramatica kick), 9:02
Los Angeles - HB Clinton Portis 8 run (Brown kick), 14:50

Second Quarter
Arizona - HB Deuce McAllister 68 run (Gramatica kick), 7:23
Los Angeles - HB Clinton Portis 12 run (Brown kick), 11:14

Third Quarter
Arizona - Gramatica 31 FG, 9:12
Los Angeles - WR Dennis Northcutt 25 pass from Batch (Brown kick), 11:02

Fourth Quarter
Arizona - FB Robert Thomas  1 pass from Leaf (Gramatica kick), 1:25
Los Angeles - HB CLinton Portis 10 run (Brown kick), 14:35

With 3:53 left in the 4th quarter, Arizona lines up to kick a 29yd FG that would have put them ahead 27-21.  Upon the snap, Los Angeles DT Marcus Stroud blasts through the line and blocks the kick.  In the ensuing 15 play 84 yard drive, Los Angeles HB Clinton Portis runs off tackle for a 10 yard game winning TD score with :31 left in the game.  HB Clinton Portis was outstanding (22car 110yds 3td, 1cat 6yds) and QB Charlie Batch didn't make any mistakes and moved then chains when needed (20/34 197yds 1td, 5car 38yds).  On defense, the pass defense was awful, and you will see how awful in a few, and the rush defense allowed huge runs all game.  This game really came down to who had the ball last with time left on the clock.

Arizona backup QB Ryan Leaf, in for the injured QB Donovan McNabb, and making his first 2KFL start, was a revelation (32/48 322yds 1td 1int, 18 1st down, 1car 3yds).  He carved up the Los Angeles secondary with surgical precision all game long.  Help by the big running plays of HB Deuce McAllister (13car 160yds 2td, 3cat 34yds), the Arizona offense racked up 465 total yards.  The final Los Angeles scoring drive was a backbreaker for the defense.  They actual did not play bad; they just could not get off of the field for the last drive.  Arizona is struggling big time.

 

Offensive Players of the Game - Los Angeles HB Clinton Portis

                                                         Arizona QB Ryan Leaf

                                                         Arizona HB Deuce McAllister

Defensive Player of the Game - Arizona S Paris Lenon (1 forced fumble, 1 run stop, 3 passes deflected, 1/4 15yds allowed in pass defense)

Edited April 14, 2020 by Truck_Turner

[Truck_Turner 19]

New Jersey Generals (1-2)       7  7 10  8 -- 32
Oakland Invaders (3-0)         10 14  3  7 -- 34

First Quarter
Oakland - Feely 36 FG, 5:12
Oakland -WR Jabbar Gaffney 8 pass from Smith (Feely kick), 8:37
New Jersey - WR Quincy Morgan 8 pass from Griese (Vanderjagt  kick), 13:58

Second Quarter
Oakland - HB Rueben Droughns 4 run (Feely kick), 4:18
New Jersey - HB Travis Henry 1 run (Vanderjagt  kick), 13:11
Oakland - WR Jabbar Gaffney 10 pass from Smith (Feely kick), 14:17

Third Quarter
New Jersey - Vanderjagt  36 FG, 1:38
New Jersey - WR Travis Henry 3 run (Vanderjagt  kick), 5:33
Oakland - Feely 50 FG, 8:55

Fourth Quarter
New Jersey - QB Brian Griese 3 run (Graham run), 4:45
Oakland - HB Rueben Droughns 49 run (Feely kick), 8:32

New Jersey was down 24-14 at halftime and looking pretty flat offensively.  In the second half, due to some timely takeaways, New Jersey was able to claw their way to a 32-27 lead with 10:27 left in the game.Sometimes the football gods giveth and in this case, sometimes the football gods taketh it away.    With 6:51 left in the game, and the ball on the New Jersey 49 yard line, Oakland QB Akili Smith pitches the ball to HB Rueben Droughns on a Sweep Left.  Lead blocker FB Ryan Neufeld throws a crushing block on New Jersey CB Mike McKenzie springing Droughns down the sideline and it's off to the races!  49 yards later, HB Reuben Droughns is in the end zone with the game winning score, crushing New Jersey's chance to sneak out of Oakland with a tough road win.

Oakland's running game destroyed the New Jersey usually stout front 7 (279 rushing yards and 8.2 yards per carry).  Oakland had runs of 55, 49, 28 and 23 yards and a defense is not doing their job when allowing huge chunk plays like that.  Oakland QB Akili Smith did not play particularly well (13/19 176yds 2td 2int, 3car -4yds), but he did just enough to supplement the strong running game throwing for (7) 1st downs.  On defense, rookie LB E.J. Henderson has transformed this defense with his strong play, especially in coverage (2 interceptions today) and S Lance Shulters, who is an underrated Safety who is usually overshadowed by the highly regarded S Mike Brown, has been a revelation so far this year and this defenses has turned into a tough unit to play against.

New Jersey's big free agency acquisition, QB Brian Greise, has not risen to the level of play expected of him and is probably the main reason why New Jersey lost (13/29 139yds 1td 3int, 8car 18yds 1td).  He has just been terrible so far this year.  One point in his defense though are the substandard receivers he is throwing to.  WR D'Wayne Bates, Quincy Morgan and Quentin McCord do not strike fear in any secondary, so New Jersey is going to have to rely on a strong running game (gained 214 yards and 6.3 yards per carry this game) and hope the play action pass can help them succeed.  And defensively, New Jersey's star players (LB Bart Scott, S Deon Grant and free agent signee DE Patrick Kearney) have to play a lot better to carry a substandard offense.  One standout on the New Jersey defense has been rookie DT Dewayne Robertson, who was great today (1 sack, 2 QB hits, 1 tackle for loss, 2 run stops).

 

Offensive Players of the Week - Oakland's Running backs (Reuben Droughns, Ladell Betts, Jamel White, Ryan Neufield, Jon Ritchie) and Offensive line

Defensive Players of the Week - Oakland LB E.J. Henderson (2 interceptions, 1 tackle for loss, 1 QB Hit, 1 run stop)

[Truck_Turner 19]

Birmingham Stallions (1-2)       7  3 14  7 -- 31
Denver Gold (2-1)                0  0  7  7 -- 14

First Quarter
Birmingham - WR Deion Branch 10 pass from Manning (Dawson  kick), 11:50

Second Quarter
Birmingham - Dawson  41 FG, 9:48

Third Quarter
Birmingham - S Pat Dennis 40 interception return (Dawson  kick), 0:31
Birmingham - HB Cecil Collins 3 run (Dawson  kick), 0:57
Denver - HB Kevin Faulk 2 pass from King (Janikowski kick), 13:08

Fourth Quarter
Birmingham - TE David Martin 4 pass from Manning (Dawson  kick), 7:16
Denver - WR Nate Burleson 15 pass from King (Janikowski kick), 11:52

Turnovers, Turnovers, Turnover.  Denver QB Shaun King threw 2 interceptions and HB Kevin Faulk had 4 fumbles (3 lost).  The team had no chance against Birmingham's defensive takeaway onslaught led by Birmingham backup CB Nick Harper forcing 3 fumbles.  On offense, QB Peyton Manning played mistake-free football (22/33 219yds 2td 0int, 1car 2yds) and HB Ron Dayne wasn't spectacular (34car 113yds, 1cat 8yds), but he grinded the clock and moved the chains (Birmingham time of possession was 39:50).  Birmingham's defense was lights out, allowing only 191 total yards.

Denver's turnovers killed any offensive drives the put together and QB Shaun King was back to his inconsistent play (12/21 118yds 2td 2int, 4car 9yds).  Denver's defense really could not be faulted for the short fields they had to defend because of the turnovers.  They only allowed 2.9 yards per carry but the could be faulted for allowing 11/19 third down conversion rate.  A tired defense could account for that though.  Hopefully this was anamoly for the normally strong Denver team.  We will see.

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Birmingham QB Peyton Manning

Defensive Player of the Game - Birmingham S Ed Reed (1 tackle for loss, 3 run stops, 1 forced fumble)

 

 

[Truck_Turner 19]

WEEK 3 REVIEW

2KFL League Standings
         Week 3
        Atlantic
                            W    L    T    PF    PA     Str         
            Washington      2    1    0    84    50     L1      
            Boston          2    1    0    64    64     W1         
            New Jersey      1    2    0    69    63     L1         
            Philadelphia    0    3    0    64    94     L3         
        Central
                            W    L    T    PF    PA     Str          
            Tampa Bay       3    0    0    98    66     W3         
            Chicago         1    2    0    77    101    W1         
            Birmingham      1    2    0    73    101    W1         
            Michigan        1    2    0    46    58     L2        
        Pacific
                            W    L    T    PF    PA     Str          
            Oakland         3    0    0    89    68     W3         
            Denver          2    1    0    75    67     L1         
            Los Angeles     2    1    0    74    58     W2         
            Arizona         0    3    0    72    95     L3         

 

PLAYERS OF THE WEEK

Offensive - Chicago HB Jamal Lewis (22car 175yds 3td, 2cat 26yds)

Defensive - Tampa Bay DT Ron Edwards (1 sack, 3 QB hits, 2 run stops, 1 forced fumble)

Rookie - Oakland LB E.J. Henderson  (2 interceptions, 1 tackle for loss, 1 QB Hit, 1 run stop)

 

WEEK 4 SCHEDULE

    Week 4
        Tampa Bay Bandits (3-0)       at    Philadelphia Stars (0-3)    
        New Jersey Generals (1-2)     at    Boston Breakers (2-1)          
        Denver Gold (2-1)             at    Washington Federals (2-1)      
        Michigan Panthers (1-2)       at    Birmingham Stallions (1-2)      
        Chicago Blitz (1-2)           at    Los Angeles Express (2-1)     
        Oakland Invaders (3-0)        at    Arizona Wranglers (0-3)   

 

WEEK 4 SUSPENSIONS AND INJURIES

Denver starting CB Corey Chavous injured his knee and will be out for 5 weeks.  Denver will not sign anyone to take his place.

Oakland backup LB Zack Walz tore his ACL and will be out for the rest of the year. Oakland will sign LB Stephen Cooper to take his place.

 

WEEK 4 PREDICTIONS

        Tampa Bay Bandits (3-0)       at    Philadelphia Stars (0-3)      Prediction - Tampa Bay 32 Philadelphia 25
        New Jersey Generals (1-2)     at    Boston Breakers (2-1)         Prediction - Boston 24 New Jersey 22 
        Denver Gold (2-1)             at    Washington Federals (2-1)     Prediction - Washington 28 Denver 21 
        Michigan Panthers (1-2)       at    Birmingham Stallions (1-2)    Prediction - Birmingham 26 Michigan 25 
        Chicago Blitz (1-2)           at    Los Angeles Express (2-1)     Prediction - Los Angeles 32 Chicago 23  
        Oakland Invaders (3-0)        at    Arizona Wranglers (0-3)       Prediction - Oakland 31 Arizona 26

 

[Truck_Turner 19]

Tampa Bay        0 10  7  0 -- 17
Philadelphia    10 20 10  7 -- 47

First Quarter
Philadelphia - WR Gari Scott 14 pass from Brady (Graham  kick), 1:44
Philadelphia - Graham  35 FG, 6:09

Second Quarter
Tampa Bay - HB Olandis Gary 48 run (Brown kick), 2:59
Philadelphia - WR Santana Moss 94 kickoff return (Graham  kick), 3:21
Philadelphia - Graham  45 FG, 8:32
Tampa Bay - Brown 19 FG, 13:48
Philadelphia - WR Santana Moss 87 kickoff return (Graham  kick), 14:05
Philadelphia - Graham  54 FG, 14:59

Third Quarter
Philadelphia - HB Aaron Stecker  2 run (Graham  kick), 6:18
Tampa Bay - WR Ron Dugans 101 kickoff return (Brown kick), 6:41
Philadelphia - Graham  34 FG, 11:03

Fourth Quarter
Philadelphia - HB Maurice Morris 18 run (Graham  kick), 13:44

An aspect of this game that is sometimes glossed over are special teams.  Well, special teams came to the forefront this game as Philadelphia gained 302 total return yards (WR Santana Moss was a monster), blowing the game open in the second quarter, and behind stiff defense, Philadelphia was able to blow out Tampa Bay for their 1st rare win of the year.  Philadelphia QB Tom Brady was efficient (17/25 194yds 1td) and HB Thomas Jones had another throw back performance (20car 148yds) to pace the offense.  On defense, Philadelphia DE Adewale Ogunleye was simply unblockable (3 sacks, 3 QB hits, 1 tackle for loss, 3 run stops, 1 forced fumble) and he annihilated Tampa Bay LT Bryant McKinnie all game long.  LB Ian Gold  (2 sacks, 3 QB Hits, 4 run stops, 1 fumble recovery, 1 pass deflected).was also instrumental in shutting down the potent Tampa Bay offense.  Every year, Phildelphia has one of these games where it all comes together, so the key now is to stack these performances.

Tampa Bay QB Marc Bulger (16/29 204yds 0td 1int) didn't play well and despite WR Plaxico Burress' heroics (4cat 103yds), Tampa Bay really could not get on track.  On defense, the front 7 allowed 172 total rushing yards but limited the Philadelphia pass offense to 6 total first downs. 

 

Offensive Player of the Game - Philadelphia HB Thomas Jones

Defensive Player of the Game - Philadelphia DE Adewale Ogunleye