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Super Bowl XVI

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Championship Weekend

(9) Black Mambas @ Rice-A-Roni (1)

Match-Up Overview At the open portion of Wednesday's practice, report that Jalen Hurts is not on the field with the rest of the team as Black Mambas prepares for their sixth Championship game in franchise history. This time against a divisional rival and Golden State Champion, Rice-A-Roni. Black Mambas and Rice-A-Roni split their series games, with Black Mambas taking the first game in Week 3, handing Rice-A-Roni their first franchise loss. However, in an epic battle between the two highest-scoring teams, Rice-A-Roni defeated Black Mambas in Week 12. In both games, the quarterbacks were almost identical in stats. In Week 3's game, Jalen Hurts threw for 340 yards, 3 touchdowns, and rushed for 20 yards. He was accumulating 30 points in fantasy football. Josh Allen, the quarterback for Rice-A-Roni, threw for 400 yards, 2 touchdowns, and rushed for 47 yards. Unfortunately for Rice-A-Roni, Allen fumbled late in the 4th quarter giving Black Mambas the ball back and, ultimately, the victory. The total stats for Josh Allen in Week 3 accumulated 29 points in fantasy football. In their Week 12 contest, Josh Allen had the final say. Allen threw for 253 yards, 2 touchdowns, 1 interception, and ran for 78 yards.

Allen fumbled once but was able to pick it up and capped off the broken play with 1 rushing touchdown. Josh Allen extended his push toward a league MVP and showcased his skill on the ground and through the air. This performance garnered a 32-point total in fantasy football. Jalen Hurts matched Allen's performance with his own. He threw for 153 yards and 2 touchdowns while exploiting Rice-A-Roni's rush defense. Hurts ran for 157 yards on the ground. Like their Week 3 contest, the game was decided on a fumble. Hurts lost the ball late, giving it back to Rice-A-Roni, who secured the win with a go-ahead touchdown. Hurts total was 31 points in fantasy football. In both of their contests, these quarterbacks showcased their elite skill in the air and on the ground. Now with questions about whether or not Jalen Hurts will be able to go as he deals with a separated shoulder. Rice-A-Roni has opened up as a big favorite to defeat division rival Black Mambas and reach Super Bowl XVI in their rookie season. Black Mambas may have to look elsewhere at quarterback; the problem is that anyone plugged into the most critical position in football will not be able to match Jalen Hurts skill set or leadership. Right now, Baker Mayfield has been taking most of the snaps for Black Mambas, but there are rumblings that they may be looking at what quarterbacks are available through free agency. If Jalen Hurts unable to suit up, it will be up to the running game and defense to keep Black Mambas in the game. We've seen how fast Josh Allen and company can drive down the field, and if Hurts isn't active, it will be interesting to see how much that affects the morale of the rest of the team. Rice-A-Roni came into the Elite Fantasy League with extra draft picks and was able to use those picks to build a roster that was a contender right out of the gate. One thing is sure, this rivalry between Black Mambas and Rice-A-Roni will only continue to heat up. For years, Black Mambas' rivalries consisted of Rainelo Hawks when the Hawks were in the same division as these Mambas'. However, in the last couple of years, Black Mambas did not have that main rival - the Pacific division was Black Mambas and Black Mambas alone.

With the entrance of Rice-A-Roni into the EFL and within the Golden State division, it looks like this tug-of-war for the battle of the Bay will be between Black Mambas and Rice-A-Roni for years to come. Hyrule Empire and Balls Deep in the Bay are also in rebuild mode, so realistically, Black Mambas, a proven winner, looks like they'll be facing off against Rice-A-Roni not just for the division but for Super Bowl titles. While Rice-A-Roni won the Golden State division, the game this weekend is more significant than any division title. A chance to play in the Super Bowl. In their first year, Rice-A-Roni has an opportunity to get to the Super Bowl in their expansion season. For Black Mambas, they are seeking their fourth Super Bowl appearance. Being one of three teams to have won two Super Bowls and one of two to win back-to-back titles, Black Mambas understand the challenge of getting to the Super Bowl, let alone winning it. Us football fans are hoping that Jalen Hurts can play. In a game that will only build this rivalry, we want to see the best players fighting for a chance to represent the Golden State division in Super Bowl XVI. The projections have Rice-A-Roni winning big in what could be a historic victory in the Elite Fantasy League. Regardless of what happens, however, both these teams should be proud of their seasons. Black Mambas is the last remaining Wild Card team still standing. Rice-A-Roni has already shown the league they can hang with the best of the best in their rookie campaign and will be a threat for years to come. I can't wait for this weekend to see who wins the third installment of "The Battle of The Bay" - with an opportunity to play in Super Bowl XVI.

(4) Black Hole Son @ Crocs (3)

Match-Up Overview He was terrible. He was tortured. He threw 2 interceptions. He tossed a ball off a face mask. He flung passes to nowhere. He couldn't find the end zone. He couldn't find himself. In the final minutes against division rival, LilShupeScoresBIGPoints on Sunday, Justin Herbert was beaten. But he was still barking. "I got it!" he screamed at his teammates on the sideline. "I got it, fellas! You give us a chance, and we got it!" Moments later, with the score tied and 44 seconds remaining, and the ball on their 23-yard line, Crocs gave him that chance. Justin Herbert got every inch of it by wrapping the team in his giant hands, owning the city on his shoulders, and doing it all with the tiniest of smiles. Herbert sent the Crocs, who acquired him in a trade at the trade deadline, to their first postseason win and a chance to play for a trip to Super Bowl XVI in Detriot, Michigan, at Ford Field. Much like Justin Herbert and Crocs, Kirk Cousins and Black Hole Son struggled to do anything early.

When Black Hole Son went into halftime on Saturday trailing at home against Evolution, could anyone have imagined Kirk Cousins would end up winning the offensive player of the week? Moreover, he sent his team to the Championship game that will be played on the road in Nashville, Tennesse. Cousins was 6 of 12 for 43 yards and a pick-six. The massive deficit wasn't his fault; there was a blocked punt, a fumble by the running game, a miscommunication with his receiver on the interception, and two 4th and 1 failure that was taken out of his hands, but he wasn't off to a strong start, either. However, Black Hole Son rallied and took a commanding lead over Evolution, the loser of Super Bowl XV. Cousins was at the forefront of it all. He completed 28 of 42 passes for 417 yards and four touchdowns in the second half, leading Black Hole Son with poise, accuracy, and intelligent decision-making. The veteran ended up with a career-high 460 passing yards and was named the offensive player of the week. With an opportunity to get to the Super Bowl, Black Hole Son will continue to look toward Kirk Cousins to continue his big play ability against an opponent they have never faced. It will be the first-ever contest between Black Hole Son and Crocs. Crocs have played every franchise at least once in their two years in the Elite Fantasy league; however, they proceeded to miss the opportunity to play Black Hole Son - until now. Early projections have the Northern-Midwest Champions knocking off the Cascadia-Sunbelt Champions by only 1 point. Crocs are favored by 1 point, and many expect it to be a very tight contest. Both teams have excellent running games and should rely on them instead of asking so much from their quarterbacks.

But as we've seen over the last few weeks, these teams win and die with how their quarterbacks go since both of these teams traded for Herbert and Cousins. Although the excitement and interest fall on the shoulders of the quarterbacks and their exciting comeback victories last week, this game will most certainly be decided by what defense can control the trenches. Both defenses rank in the top five in the league against the pass and run; this game should be much closer than the other Championship game. It is hard to say which way this game will unfold. These teams are evenly matched, and both are Division winners, respectively. Crocs are searching for their first Super Bowl appearance, while Black Hole Son is looking for their second Super Bowl appearance. Black Hole Son has only been in this position once before, where they were able to defeat their opponent in the Championship game and get to Super Bowl XIII, where they defeated LilShupeScoresBIGPoints to win their first and only Super Bowl Championship in franchise history. On the brink of looking for their second Super Bowl, Black Hole Son will hope to start hot early and stifle Derrick Henry, who has been bottled up the last couple of weeks and is itching to explode to have a monumental game. Can Crocs get Henry going against this defense, or will they rely on Justin Herbert again to come through at the end? Realistically, it may come down to that against a very dominant defense. Black Hole Son has the better defense, but Crocs has the better offense, so what will happen when these two teams clash? Well, we're just going to have to wait and see.

2023 DRAFT ORDER

1. Balls Deep (0-13)

2. VanillaGorillas (3-10)

3. Hahn's Hitters (4-9)

4. Rainelo Hawks (5-8)

5. Hyrule Empire (6-7)

6. The Canadian Cripplers (6-7)

7. The Busy Killers (7-6)

8. Ultimate Savages (8-5)

9. Straight Edge Society (7-6)

10. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints (8-5)

11. Evolution (8-5)

12. Yuba City Sultans (9-4)

** 13 Through 16 Yet To Be Determined

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[jrsechelon]

Divisional Weekend

(10) Straight Edge Society @ Rice-A-Roni (1)

Match-Up Overview The battle to get to the Championship Game is underway, and the number one seed, Rice-A-Roni, will have the opportunity to get there in their first postseason game in franchise history. Rice-A-Roni is two games away from the Super Bowl, and although it has been a very successful inaugural season, they are still looking for more. While they have had success this season, the postseason is where we see teams take the next steps toward glory and etching their names in the history books. The Elite Fantasy League has never had an expansion franchise win the Super Bowl in its first season. While Rice-A-Roni has the offensive star power and potent defense to accomplish that feat, it isn't going to come easy. Rice-A-Roni will play host to Straight Edge Society, the tenth seed and the first franchise to win back-to-back Super Bowls (Super Bowl VI & VII). Straight Edge Society has always been a franchise that seems to step up its game when the postseason arrives. Straight Edge Society doesn't collapse under pressure but welcomes it. In their three Super Bowl appearances, Straight Edge Society was seeded as the fourth, eighth, and fifth seeds. In the two years they won in back-to-back seasons; they were seeded as the fourth and eighth seeds. This year they came into the postseason as the tenth seed. As the postseason season expanded to two extra teams this year, Straight Edge Society was able to squeak in as the final seed. Without expanding, they most likely would have missed. While there has been some pushback regarding the expansion of the playoffs, it has given two additional teams a chance to get in when they wouldn't have. It also gives the top seeds a chance to rest on a bye and prepare for the Divisional Round. Straight Edge Society is battle-tested in the postseason, and they understand what it takes to get to the promised land. Rice-A-Roni is new to this; everything is still fresh and brand new. However, they have a stable enough core of men on the field and throughout their building, making them an instant contender and a team with a veteran aura.

The trade for Stefon Diggs earlier in the year has allowed Josh Allen to thrive in a new location, other than with LilShupeScoresBIGPoints. Not only did that trade help bolster this offense, but a healthy Josh Jacobs and Cordarrelle Patterson have revitalized the running game. The strong performance on the ground has allowed Josh Allen to have extra time in the pocket to create plays through the air by having the R.P.O. option work so well. Not just that, but Josh Allen is one of the leading rushers in the league. When this kid doesn't see an option open through the air, he can tuck that ball and run with the wind! Rice-A-Roni's is dangerous, and it doesn't end with those players. Brandon Aiyuk and Peoples-Jones continue to garner extra attention over the last few, weeks-leaving Stefon Diggs open on out-routes and quick-slants. Rice-A-Roni's defense has continued to play good ball, but if any part of their team is vulnerable, it would be this young defense. Nevertheless, they are complimenting their offense through turnover opportunities. So how is Rice-A-Roni going to fare against Straight Edge Society? Well, it will have to be a game won on Josh Allen's back. Straight Edge Society, much like Rice-A-Roni, has a versatile team and a predominantly powerful offense, giving them many opportunities to score and score big. Joe Burrow has a healthy Ja'Marr Chase and Jerry Jeudy back, which has thrust Burrow into the M.V.P. conversation. Christian Watson, the young rookie, has played like a veteran, and DeAndre Hopkins, although he has had his struggles, is always a threat at any given moment. Like Rice-A-Roni, Straight Edge Society has an excellent run game. Whether Kenneth Walker III, Antino Gibson, or Jamaal Williams is carrying the rock, this team can create holes and allow each back to break free. The defense has been able to shut down opposing wide receivers over the last three weeks through impressive stat lines when we look at it. Eli Apple alone has allowed a total of 52 yards on 12 targets. While losing Trey Hendrickson will hurt them, rookie linebacker Jack Sanborn should continue to see ample playing time. For Straight Edge Society to win this contest, Sanborn must continue his impressive play to bottle up the run leaving Rice-A-Roni one-dimensional. Ultimately, this game will be determined by which quarterback can play turnover-free football. Ladies and gentlemen, get ready because this will be an exciting game between two teams meeting for the first time in a huge Divisional game. Straight Edge Society was the first seed last year and was one and done. Can they give Rice-A-Roni the same treatment they were given last year? Only time will tell.

(9) Black Mambas @ Yuba City Sultans (2)

Match-Up Overview Just like Straight Edge Society, Black Mambas is the only other franchise to have won back-to-back Super Bowls (Super Bowl XI & XII). Black Mambas' offense, floundering throughout the last few weeks in the regular season, came alive last weekend in the Wild Card Round. Black Mambas wasn't missing a step without Taysom Hill or Chris Olave. So much so that these two may be a healthy scratch in their game against Yuba City Sultans. While these two teams have never played one another in the postseason, nor did they play one another in the regular season, it has only been close once when they do play. These two are on opposite ends of the country, which is why they have seldom played. These two have only played one another three times in their franchises. Black Mambas leads the regular season series at 2-1. The year Sultans came into the Elite Fantasy League in 2015, Black Mambas defeated these Sultans by four points and then lost to the Sultans by forty. Their only other game was in the 2020 season in Week 2, where Black Mambas defeated Yuba City Sultans by forty-one points. There isn't much to go off of since they haven't faced off in almost two years. Yet, we have seen both teams play big-boy football this season. Jalen Hurts continues to show the league he is an elite quarterback and is the leading candidate for the M.V.P. James Connor and Nick Chubb keep bringing the heat on the ground, and Black Mambas' defense and special teams showed up in big ways last weekend in Dallas against The Busy Killers. Yuba City Sultans have been able to do things not with just a couple of guys but with a core working together each week to produce a winning formula. Jared Goff is smart, accurate, and experienced, and he helps his receivers grow.

Jared Goff continues to play good football, and although he has limitations, Yuba City Sultans has developed an offense that plays to his strengths. Although Yuba City Sultans could roll with Daniel Jones or freshly reinstated Deshaun Watson, Goff realistically gives them the best probability to get to the Championship Round. It will be a big ask for Yuba City Sultans against a stellar team that has everything rolling in the right direction. Although Black Mambas has to travel again, this time across the country to East Rutherford, New Jersey, they are the favorite. As of today, they are a fourteen-point favorite. For Yuba City Sultans to win, they'll need to keep up with Hurts and Black Mambas' explosive offense. Goff will need Ceedee Lamb and DK Metcalf to have a game. They will need to prove they are dogs, and Goff has the grit to keep pace with Hurts and company. While the odd makers have Black Mambas as the favorite by two touchdowns, I expect this game to be much closer than that. Nevertheless, I expected The Busy Killers to keep it close last weekend, but Black Mambas had other ideas. They took the lead and never looked back. If Black Mambas can come out of the tunnel with the same pep they had last week, it could spell another long and agonizing postseason game for Yuba City Sultans. Last season the Sultans ran into a brick wall when they faced Ultimate Savages in the Wild Card Round. It was the largest defeat for this franchise in postseason history. The way Black Mambas plays, Yuba City Sultans will have to play a set of preventive defenses with a single high safety. This would be the best scenario to allow the defensive back, Johnathan Owens, to continue his dominant season, covering the field in all phases of defensive coverage. Containing the pass and limiting Hurts on the ground can give the Sultans a shot to make Black Mambas one-dimensional. It won't be easy, but if any team can do it, it'll be Yuba City Sultans. While these two rarely meet, I expect fireworks in a hard-hitting back between teams who know what it's like to taste Super Bowl glory and are itching to get back there.

(6) LilShupeScoresBIGPoints @ Crocs (3)

Match-Up Overview The battle between the sixth seed versus the third seed will be a battle between divisional foes. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints and Crocs will again face off against one another for the third time this season. Both teams are in the Northern-Midwest division, which produced three playoff teams this season, all still in the postseason. However, after this weekend, that won't be the case. While Straight Edge Society could remain, only one of these two respected Northern-Midwest teams will be moving onto the Championship Round. For Crocs, this is uncharted territory. Being in their second year in the Elite Fantasy League, Crocs will grace the postseason for the first time this coming Divisional Round. For LilShupeScoresBIGPoints, this will be their seventh straight postseason appearance. Last year, LilShupeScoresBIGPoints lost to Evolution in the Wild Card Round. This year they were able to clinch a bye-week to rest and prepare for their battle against Division Champions, Crocs. For Crocs, they had a fantastic season. The season saw them have a strong draft and a turnaround in the win and loss department. Last year, in their inaugural season, they went 4-10. This year they finished with a 9-4 record and a Northern-Midwest Division Title. Not just that, though, Crocs defeated opponents with whom many other franchises have problems. Going into the Divisional Round match-up, Crocs should be feeling pretty confident. In Week 7, Crocs traveled to Green Bay, easily defeating LilShupeScoresBIGPoints by thirty-three points. Just three weeks ago, in Week 12, Crocs stood strong at home in Nashville and handled LilShupeScoresBIGPoints in a more challenging game, defeating LilShupeScoresBIGPoints by nine points and winning the division in the process. At 2-0 all-time against LilShupeScoresBIGPoints, Crocs will look to stay undefeated against the cunning veteran. Although LilShupeScoresBIGPoints struggled this year more than in past years, they are in the postseason and, as always, are a threat.

Without Josh Allen, LilShupeScoresBIGPoints has had a series of woes this season, but they've been able to push to seven straight winning seasons. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints is a staple in the postseason; one thing we can expect year in and year out is LilShupeScoresBIGPoints being in the playoffs. Although the divisional opponent, Crocs, swept them, they came out as the favorite. A six-point favorite, LilShupeScoresBIGPoints will have to hope for some Brady postseason magic. Crocs are no slouch; acquiring Justin Herbert was the icing on an enticing cake. The cake already consisted of King Henry, the Penguin, Jalen Waddle, Scary Terry McLaurin, the greatest kicker in the history of football, Justin Tucker, and a balling defense.LilShupeScoresBIGPoints is going to need Tom Brady to do what he does best when it comes to the postseason. This hasn't been the best season for Brady; it possibly has been his most challenging. Not factoring off-the-field issues, the on-the-field problems have been weighing more and more. Brady isn't getting the time he needs to get the ball out to these receivers, the offensive line hasn't been able to protect him, and the run game has been inept. Justin Jefferson has been the bright spot on this team and has made incredible plays when needed. Still, without the time in the pocket, Tom Brady has looked less like the G.O.A.T. and more like a 45-year-old man trying to maintain his dream of playing professional football as his ability dwindles. While some might say that isn't the case and Brady needs a healthy offensive line, LilShupeScoresBIGPoints will need a stout performance on the offensive side of the ball to contend against Northern-Midwest Divisional Champion and rival, Crocs. Not only will that be a big ask for this team, but stopping Derrick Henry will be the primary focus. As Henry goes, so does Crocs. It will be a meticulous chess match of a game. These two know each other well-being from the same division, and neither wants their season to end against a division rival. Whether Tom Brady can find that youthful magic LilShupeScoresBIGPoints will need from TB12 to move to the Championship Round will be the deciding factor. Otherwise, Crocs' dream season will continue.

(5) Evolution @ Black Hole Son (4)

Match-Up Overview In our last Divisional Round game, Evolution, the fifth seed will travel once again to Las Vegas to battle against Cascadia-Sunbelt Division Champion, Black Hole Son. We saw this match in Week 8 when Evolution went to Vegas and defeated Black Hole Son by twenty-three points. These two have only played once in the postseason, and that was the 2019 season when Black Hole Son went 12-2 and eventually won the Super Bowl. That season, these two faced off against one another in the Championship Round, where Black Hole Son pummeled Evolution. If there is one thing we know about Evolution, they remember these things and use them as added fuel. Black Hole Son will look to have a heavy attack centered around Miles Sanders and DeVante Adams. On the other hand, Evolution will look to get Tua Tagovailoa connected with Tyreek Hill. The rumblings in Miami are that Tua has lost his confidence, and going into this game will be a real tale of how Tagovailoa can muster the pressure.

Black Hole Son shook their roster up before the deadline, and although they aren't as dominant in a variety of ways, their offense has enough star power to produce victories as long as the real Kirk Cousins shows up. We've gone back and forth on who is the real Kirk Cousins. Is it the Cousins who balls hard and gives his team ample opportunity to run away with games, or is it the Kirk Cousins who seems unable to call a simple play-action without bobbling the snap and forcing interceptions instead of taking the sack? Black Hole Son will need Cousins to start hot and continue that throughout the game to win. Much like Black Hole Son, Evolution will need the same from Tua. We talked about Tagovailoa in the M.V.P. conversation for a few short weeks, but now we're trying to figure out where that fire went. Where did that elite play go? That big arm is gone, and the inability to read the defenses has become more prominent. Tua has looked shaky, and although Tyreek Hill and company have confidence in their quarterback, it is a "what have you done for me recently?" business. The fans are uneasy going into this Divisional Round game. The odd makers have Black Hole Son as the favorite by five points but depending on who gets healthy in time for the game; Evolution could look to be the favorite once kickoff begins. The real conversation should be on the defensive units. Both teams have strong defenses. One is led by rookie cornerback Sauce Gardner and the other by savvy sack machine Matthew Judon. Both defensive units can dictate the game, and how the quarterbacks play depends on which defense can produce the most takeaways. These two are evenly matched, and whoever wins this game should have a real opportunity to play for Super Bowl XVI. Although they will need to get past this game and the Championship game, the two teams in this Divisional battle have the most balanced rosters in the postseason.

2023 DRAFT ORDER

1. Balls Deep (0-13)

2. VanillaGorillas (3-10)

3. Hahn's Hitters (4-9)

4. Rainelo Hawks (5-8)

5. Hyrule Empire (6-7)

6. The Canadian Cripplers (6-7)

7. The Busy Killers (7-6)

8. Ultimate Savages (8-5)

** 9 Through 16 Yet To Be Determined

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[jrsechelon]

Wild Card Weekend

2022 POSTSEASON - WILDCARD ROUND

#10 Straight Edge Society @ Ultimate Savages #7

Head-To-Head Ultimate Savages leads the series in the Regular Season 2-1

Head-To-Head History Ultimate Savages defeated Straight Edge Society Week 10 in the Regular Season by 7. Ultimate Savages pulled off a blockbuster trade earlier in the week, landing Saquon Barkley, Lamar Jackson, & George Pickens. This trade with Black Hole Son allowed Ultimate Savage to have a great advantage against Straight Edge Society, who was already without Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase. The win pushed Ultimate Savages to 6-straight, while Straight Edge Society fell two in a row. Ultimate Savages would win one out of the next three games to finish the season, while Straight Edge Society would win the next two out of three. Both of these teams have faced each other for three consecutive seasons now. In 2021, Ultimate Savages defeated Straight Edge Society by 4 points. In 2020, Ultimate Savages' inaugural season, Straight Edge Society welcomed Ultimate Savages into the league with a 38-point win. Both of these teams were Playoff teams last season. Straight Edge Society was the #1 Seed last year, losing in the Wild Card Round to Rainelo Hawks. At the same time, Ultimate Savages made it to the Championship Game. Still, they fell to Evolution, who ended up losing in the Super Bowl to Ultimate Savages' inner-city rival, Rainelo Hawks.

Who Has The Edge Both Straight Edge Society and Ultimate Savages are dealing with injuries to key players. Straight Edge Society had to weather the storm of injuries down the stretch this season, partly because they had lost five straight. Last week against Crocs, Straight Edge Society's star running back, Kenneth Walker III, sustained an ankle injury and has yet to practice this week. If Walker cannot go, it will be a big blow to a team that benefits from a strong run game to help open up their lethal passing attack. However, this time, Straight Edge Society will have Joe Burrow and Ja'Marr Chase, two key players they did not have in their Week 10 match-up. Ultimate Savages lost Lamar Jackson last week and looked to have lost him for several weeks. In their Week 10 match, Ultimate Savages didn't have Lamar Jackson playing either and still got the win with John Wolford, although it wasn't anything he did to capture the win. This time around, Ultimate Savages will be riding Tyler Huntley, the 6'1" 223 pounds, 24-year old played ball at Utah and has served primarily as a backup. The kid has some elite skills, which makes me believe he cannot just start in this league but be a top-tier quarterback. While I have a ton of belief in Huntley, this will be his first time starting this season, and the added pressure of it being a Playoff game may be too much for the kid. When you look at each team's strengths, they are evenly matched. The quarterback goes to Straight Edge Society, and running backs go to Ultimate Savages. D. Cook and S. Barkley are two of the more dangerous backs in the game and have been playing lights out this year. Wide receivers would go to Straight Edge Society.

Even with them dealing with Jerry Jeudy, who did not practice today, Ja'Marr Chase, DeAndre Hopkins, and Darius Slayton have all been a big factor in why Joe Burrow has had an MVP type of season. Tyler Boyd and Tyler Lockett for Ultimate Savages are the stars at wideout. Still, it is hard to give them the edge due to the nagging injury, which continues to hamper Mike Williams, who may suit up this week, but I'm not confident he'll be able to play a full game without re-aggravating his injury. The tight end position is a tie. Pat Freiermuth for Ultimate Savages and T.J. Hockenson for Straight Edge Society were acquired toward the trade deadline. While they're an upgrade to who they had, neither tight end has been able to elevate their game since being traded. One of these men may be the key factor in this match-up. Kickers are people too, and Ultimate Savages has Megatron, Greg Zuerlein. Zuerlein has been on-point this season, making all five field goals last weekend, including a 60-yarder. Both defenses are playing strong, but the slight edge goes to Ultimate Savages. While Straight Edge Society's defense managed to hold Crocs' top-ranked scoring offense below its season average. Straight Edge Society's defense did allow 5.5 yards per carry. This rush defense has performed slightly better since the return of integral defensive tackle DJ Reader in Week 11, but they are facing off against a top-ranked rushing offense. Ultimate Savages' defense has played lights out, tallying three sacks over the last three games, including a strip sack fumble recovery two weeks ago. Ranking in the top ten against the pass, Ultimate Savages will rely heavily on their corners to shut down the Burrow/Chase connection. Factoring in all of that, Ultimate Savages has a slight edge. However, I can't get over the fact that Straight Edge Society has Joe Cool.

Projections Going into this game, Straight Edge Society is favored by 11 points, but Ultimate Savages will have a home-field advantage, and that 12th man is not something to take lightly. I can't predict this game, but as I said, projections have Straight Edge Society favored to win in a hostile environment. If Straight Edge Society finds a way to win, they will travel to California to face off against the #1 Seed, Rice-A-Roni. If Ultimate Savages wins, they'll travel across the country to East Rutherford to face Yuba City Sultans, the #2 Seed, and a team Ultimate Savages embarrassed by running up the score last year in the Postseason.

#9 Black Mambas @ The Busy Killers #8

Head-To-Head Black Mambas leads the regular season series between these two with a 6-4 record. However, The Busy Killers hold a 1-0 record over Black Mambas in the Postseason, their only Postseason game back in 2014.

Head-To-Head History Black Mambas and The Busy Killers have been playing each other at least once every season since 2017. There have been some close games and other games, not so close. In 2017 when Black Mambas went on to win their first Super Bowl Title, Black Mambas defeated The Busy Killers by 115 points in Week 10. However, the following year The Busy Killers was able to win narrowly in Week 7 by just one point. Black Mambas has had Super Bowl success and has been to the Super Bowl for three straight years, winning two. On the other hand, The Busy Killers has only appeared in one Super Bowl. Super Bowl VIII, the same year that The Busy Killers and Black Mambas met in the Wild Card Round. The Busy Killers ultimately lost to HellbentKronik and since then have not returned. This is The Busy Killers' first time being back in the Postseason after two straight years of missing out. Black Mambas made it to the Championship game last season but lost to Rainelo Hawks for a chance to return to the Super Bowl. While that information isn't directly correlated between The Busy Killers and Black Mambas, it is important to know how things have shaped these franchises. They have faced off ten times in the regular season, with Black Mambas having the edge, but The Busy Killers won this season in Week 9 by nine points. This game propelled The Busy Killers to the dominant power they have been over the last month. On the other hand, Black Mambas had faltered here and there, tripping into the Postseason. While Black Mambas came away with a Week 13 victory, it is hard to feel confident coming into this match-up with the star power they have who hasn't been playing up the par. The Busy Killers rode a three-game winning streak into the Postseason and in striking fashion. Nine of the ten games played between these two franchises have been tightly contested. The match-up was one-sided when they faced off in the Wild Card Round in 2014. The Busy Killers crushed Black Mambas by 69 points, led by Dez Bryant and DeMarco Murray. The Busy Killers have always been a team who loves those players who can handle that Texan pressure. With The Busy Killers having home-field advantage just as they did earlier in the season, they have got to feel pretty confident going into this match-up. 5-2 at home this season, The Busy Killers ended with the best home record in the league. Black Mambas' road record has been full of woes; going 2-4 on the season, they have not faired well when facing opposing crowds. Dallas is hyped for the late-season resurgence of The Busy Killers, and while Black Mambas has a star roster, it's going to be interesting to see if they can rise above their late-season stumbles.

Who Has The Edge There have been some bright spots for each team this year; one of the surprises of the year is how well Chris Olave has stepped into the role as the number one wide receiver for Black Mambas. The kid has so much talent and is playing like a seasoned veteran. Unfortunately for Black Mambas and the rest of us eager to watch this match-up, Black Mambas will be without Chris Olave and gadget triple-threat talent Taysom Hill. Both have come down with the flu and have been ruled out of this weekend's contest. Ultimate Savages can relate to this due to losing several key players last season to COVID-19. It is always difficult when you are down and out of key individuals who help make your team succeed. Black Mambas will need to try and fill the void and make it up with star quarterback and MVP candidate Jalen Hurts. Jalen Hurts has had an MVP type of season and while defenses have been able to read him a bit more over the last few weeks, Hurts is still one of the best quarterbacks remaining in the Postseason. As much success as Hurts has been having, Dak Prescott, since coming back from injury, has been on a whole other level. Let's be real; when Dak went down with that injury, we all thought The Busy Killers season was over. They then proceeded to trade away Delvin Cook, which made us scratch our heads. However, Geno Smith gave this team enough stability to ensure they would be in the talk for the Playoffs when Prescott returned. Prescott, since returning, has thrown for 12 touchdowns and 1,222 passing yards, and although negatively having seven interceptions, it hasn't been a big factor in games. The edge at quarterback goes to Dak because of his strong play over the last month. While Hurts is a dual-threat quarterback, his play on the field has taken a downward turn over the last couple of weeks.

The running game pins the best running back, Nick Chubb, against Tony Pollard. Black Mambas also has Kyren Williams rookie back, while The Busy Killers has Isiah Pacheco, a rookie. Although Nick Chubb is probably the best running back in the league, Kyren Williams is unproven. What The Busy Killers have been able to do with Tony Pollard and Isiah Pacheco has been impressive. After they traded Delvin Cook, it looked like they wouldn't have any run game, but Pollard shouldered the load. The Busy Killers' general manager claimed Isiah Pacheco off waivers, and it's been a pleasant surprise. Wide receivers go to Black Mambas. Even with Chris Olave, this team has so much talent in the receiver position. Hurts can find savvy veteran Robert Woods downfield, trusty slot receiver Adam Thielen, or even DeVonta Smith, who has been Jalen Hurts favorite deep-threat target. Black Mambas do it through the air, so that is no surprise that they have a better receiving core. The tight end position solely falls to The Busy Killers because without Taysom Hill, and Black Mambas will be searching for a tight end to fill Hill's void. Jake Elliot, Black Mambas kicker, has been on fire all year. While Matt Gay has been just as good. You got to give this match-up a tie. Both of these teams' special teams have been remarkably strong throughout the year, don't be surprised if this game is won on the special team's side of the ball. Finally, defenses. Black Mambas' defense had six sacks last week and is led by star rookie Aidan Hutchinson who has come up huge in defining moments. While Trevon Diggs, Micah Parsons, and Maxx Crosby have been pivotal players for The Busy Killers, the elite capability of Black Mambas' defense to create turnovers on a dime, they get the nod and edge. The Busy Killers has a three-to-two edge, but when Black Mambas decides what they're going to do without Olave and Hill, it will be interesting to see how Vegas lines fall.

Projections Even without Olave and Hill, Black Mambas is only a two-point underdog going into this Wild Card Weekend. I don't know about you all, but I'm excited to see these two go at it one more time this season. Both teams are capable of winning, and both teams are capable of running away with this game. However, it will come down to the wire and is a very tightly contested game. If Straight Edge Society pulled out the victory over Ultimate Savages, the winner of this game between Black Mambas and The Busy Killers would travel to face Yuba City Sultans. Still, if Ultimate Savages wins, the winner of this game will head to the Bay and be hosted by Rice-A-Roni.

2023 DRAFT ORDER

1. Balls Deep

2. VanillaGorillas

3. Hahn's Hitters

4. Rainelo Hawks

5. Hyrule Empire

6. The Canadian Cripplers

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[jrsechelon]

Week 13 Clinching Scenarios

Playoff Scenarios Week 13

Rice-A-Roni has clinched the Golden State Division. Rice-A-Roni clinch #1 Seed with Win OR Tie + Crocs Loss OR Loss + Crocs Loss + Yuba City Sultans Loss/Tie.

Black Mambas clinch Wild Card with Win/Tie OR Loss + The Busy Killers Loss + Straight Edge Society Loss OR Loss + The Busy Killers Loss + Hyrule Empire Loss + The Canadian Cripplers Loss OR Loss + Straight Edge Society Loss + Hyrule Empire Loss + The Canadian Cripplers Loss.

Hyrule Empire clinches Wild Card with Win + Black Mambas Loss + The Busy Killers Loss + Straight Edge Society Loss + The Canadian Cripplers Loss.

Black Hole Son clinches Cascadia-Sunbelt Division with Win OR Loss + Have more Points For over Ultimate Savages Points For if they end with the same Division & Head-To-Head Opponent Record.

Ultimate Savages clinches Cascadia-Sunbelt Division with Win + Black Hole Son Loss + Have more Points For than Black Hole Son.

The Busy Killers clinch a Wild Card with Win/Tie OR Loss + Black Mambas Loss OR Loss + Straight Edge Society Loss OR Loss + LilShupeScoresBIGPoints Loss + Rainelo Hawks + The Canadian Cripplers Loss.

Rainelo Hawks clinch a Wild Card with Win + The Busy Killers Loss + Have more Points For than The Busy Killers.

Crocs have clinched the Northern-Midwest Division. Crocs clinch #1 Seed with Win + Rice-A-Roni Loss. Crocs clinch #2 Seed with Win + Rice-A-Roni Win. Crocs clinch #3 Seed with Loss + Yuba City Sultans Loss + Black Hole Son Loss. Crocs clinch #4 Seed with Loss + Rice-A-Roni Win + Yuba City Sultans Win + Black Hole Son Win.

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints has clinched Wild Card. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints clinches #5 Seed with Win + Evolution Loss + Ultimate Savages Loss. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints clinch #6 Seed with Win + Evolution Win + Ultimate Savages Loss. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints clinch #7 Seed with Win + Evolution Win + Ultimate Savages Win. LIlShupeScoresBIGPoints clinches #8 Seed with Loss + Black Mambas Win.

Straight Edge Society clinches Wild Card with Win/Tie OR Loss + The Canadian Cripplers Loss.

Yuba City Sultans clinches Atlantic-Southeast Divison with Win + Evolution Loss/Tie OR Win + Evolution Win + Have more Points For than Evolution. Yuba City Sultans clinches #1 Seed with Win + Rice-A-Roni Loss + Crocs Loss + Black Hole Son Loss.

Evolution clinches Atlantic-Southeast Division with Win + Yuba City Sultans Loss/Tie OR Win + Yuba City Sultans Win + Have more Points For than Yuba City Sultans.

2023 Draft Order Entering Week 13

1. Balls Deep

2. VanillaGorillas

3. Hahn's Hitters

4. Rainelo Hawks

5. Hyrule Empire

6. The Canadian Cripplers

7-16 Yet To Be Determined - Draft Order 2-6 Eligible To Change

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[jrsechelon]

Thankful For

16. Balls Deep

Record: 0-11

Week 11 result: Lost to LilShupeScoresBIGPoints

Week 12 opponent: at Hyrule Empire

One thing to be thankful for: With every other team in the league having at least one win to Balls Deep's none, Balls Deep appears to have a firm grasp on the first overall pick in the 2023 EFL Draft. Whether they take two rookies coming out of college Bryce Young or C.J. Stroud, or someone else more established, Balls Deep will get to choose the player they want to attempt to lead their rebuild effort.

15. VanillaGorillas

Record: 3-8

Week 11 result: Beat Yuba City Sultans

Week 12 opponent: at Straight Edge Society

One thing to be thankful for: After holding back Justin Fields for most of the season, VanillaGorillas coaching staff has finally unleashed the full potential of their young quarterback in the rushing game. Fields has been the top rusher in VanillaGorillas' offense in six of their past seven games, and while they've only won one of those outings, last week's win was a massive step in the right direction which should help this team continue to build around Fields for next season.

14. Hyrule Empire

Record: 4-7

Week 11 result: Beat Black Mambas

Week 12 opponent: vs. Balls Deep

One thing to be thankful for: Be thankful you get to be alive to watch Patrick Mahomes play football. Even though this season wasn't what Hyrule Empire hoped for, it looks like Mahomes will lead this team forward moving into 2023.

13. Hahn's Hitters

Record: 4-7

Week 11 result: Lost to The Canadian Cripplers

Week 12 opponent: vs. Evolution

One thing to be thankful for: Better to get through the learning curve earlier than later. Hahn's Hitters may not grace us with a Playoff appearance this season-they should, however, feel good moving forward. Understanding the ins and outs of this league and how to build a formidable team will give them the proper knowledge to compete in 2023.

12. The Canadian Cripplers

Record: 4-7

Week 11 result: Beat Hahn's Hitters

Week 12 opponent: at Rainelo Hawks

One thing to be thankful for: The Canadian Cripplers' decision to utilize Christian McCaffrey in specific formations has allowed their roster to help boost his skill set. McCaffery isn't just part of this team but is a cornerstone in their offense and has undeniably sparked hope moving forward. Maybe they didn't have the season they wanted, but McCaffrey will certainly be a big part of this offense in 2023.

11. Rainelo Hawks

Record: 5-6

Week 11 result: Lost to Black Hole Son

Week 12 opponent: vs. The Canadian Cripplers

One thing to be thankful for: That they won the Super Bowl last year after going all in because their lack of depth is shining through this year, and it could be a problem for years to come if they don't correct some internal problems on and off the field. With a suspension to Kamara looming next season and Derek Carr not looking like the answer. AJ Brown might be their best bet moving forward in what looks to be a team in the waves of a rebuild one year removed from winning the Super Bowl.

10. The Busy Killers

Record: 5-6

Week 11 result: Beat Rice-A-Roni

Week 12 opponent: vs. Ultimate Savages

One thing to be thankful for: The Busy Killers are in prime position to push for a Wildcard spot and could score big when everything clicks. A big Thanksgiving divisional game for The Busy Killers can almost guarantee them a Playoff spot with a win. Dak and company look like a real threat when they are rolling in all phases of the ball.

9. Straight Edge Society

Record: 5-6

Week 11 result: Lost to Evolution

Week 12 opponent: vs. VanillaGorillas

One thing to be thankful for: After Joe Burrow was sacked 13 times in his first two games of the season, he's been able to remain a little more upright in the weeks since. While his 32 sacks are still second most in the league, he's not getting taken down six times per game anymore, and being reunited with star receiver, Ja'Marr Chase this weekend will be a big boost for this offense in a must-win position.

8. Black Mambas

Record: 6-5

Week 11 result: Lost to Hyrule Empire

Week 12 opponent: at Rice-A-Roni

One thing to be thankful for: Rookie wide receiver Chris Olave already has the potential to be a superstar should Black Mambas be able to clinch a Playoff seed. Other teams better watch out, with star quarterback Jalen Hurts playing lights out. This team has incredible talent and looks to be dangerous if they're able to get into the Postseason.

7. Black Hole Son

Record: 7-4

Week 11 result: Beat Rainelo Hawks

Week 12 opponent: vs. Yuba City Sultans

One thing to be thankful for: Davante Adams' contract keeps him in Las Vegas for the foreseeable future after trading their entire 2023 Draft capital and several star players away for Adams. Black Hole Son is banking on his big-play ability to continue as they fight for a Division Title and move into the Postseason.

6. Ultimate Savages

Record: 7-4

Week 11 result: Lost to Crocs

Week 12 opponent: at The Busy Killers

One thing to be thankful for: Clinching a Postseason seed after what many thought would be a difficult year. Ultimate Savages has an excellent front office. Even if they seem to take risks, they seem to pay off. With one of the more potent offenses in the league, Ultimate Savages will have another opportunity to fight for a Super Bowl appearance with the likes of Barkley, Cook, and Lamar leading the way.

5. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints

Record: 7-4

Week 11 result: Beat Balls Deep

Week 12 opponent: vs. Crocs

One thing to be thankful for: It's been a year without Josh Allen, who had been with LilShupeScoresBIGPoints since he came out of college. This year, however, Tom Brady has taken the reigns. While Brady struggled heavily early on, he's been looking more like himself, and now really, all that's left is for Brady to go to work and get this team back in a position to compete for Super Bowl glory.

4. Evolution

Record: 7-4

Week 11 result: Beat Straight Edge Society

Week 12 opponent: vs. Hahn's Hitters

One thing to be thankful for: Evolution clinched their 15th straight Postseason appearance last week. If that isn't enough to be thankful for, there are two more things to be thankful for — wide receiver Tyreek Hill and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa— who are first in receiving and second in passing after 11 weeks.

3. Crocs

Record: 8-3

Week 11 result: Beat Ultimate Savages

Week 12 opponent: at LilShupeScoresBIGPoints

One thing to be thankful for: Not listening to the Draft analysts in the 2022 Draft and selecting Derrick Henry 1st instead of Johnathan Taylor. Henry has given this second-year team a real chance not just to win their Division this weekend but a realistic chance to play for a Super Bowl Title. Crocs' front office has done a remarkable job also, acquiring future draft picks to continue their success for years to come.

2. Rice-A-Roni

Record: 8-3

Week 11 result: Lost to The Busy Killers

Week 12 opponent: at Black Mambas

One thing to be thankful for: Rice-A-Roni may be the most thankful team in all football. In their first year, not only do they have a chance to win a Division Title this week, but they can still clinch the number one seed for the Postseason. Josh Allen, while he has made some tough mistakes, is in the upper echelon of quarterbacks and has Rice-A-Roni in an excellent position moving forward as they get ready for a Thanksgiving game against division rival, Black Mambas.

1. Yuba City Sultans

Record: 8-3

Week 11 result: Lost to VanillaGorillas

Week 12 opponent: at Black Hole Son

One thing to be thankful for: Not only did Yuba City Sultans' front office draft a balanced roster, which has far exceeded all expectations. They are in a place that gives them the best advantage in the Postseason. Holding onto the number 1 seed, they have every chance to make sure the road to the Super Bowl goes through East Rutherford. Yuba City Sultans may not be flashy, but they find ways to get the job done in the moments which count the most. Although they lost last week, the Sultans still is a threat and a team not to be disrespected and taken lightly once the Postseason comes in two weeks.

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[jrsechelon]

Playoff Scenarios For Week 11

Clinching Scenarios Entering Week 11

x : Clinched Playoff

y : Clinched Wild Card

z : Clinched Division

* : Clinched Division and Homefield Advantage

Golden State

Rice-A-Roni - x Rice-A-Roni has clinched a Playoff spot. Rice-A-Roni clinches Golden State Division with win + Black Mambas loss/tie OR Black Mambas loss. Rice-A-Roni has no clinching scenario for Homefield Advantage in Week 11.

Black Mambas - Black Mambas clinches Playoffs with win. Black Mambas clinches Wild Card with win + Rice-A-Roni win

Hyrule Empire - Hyrule Empire has been eliminated from Playoff contention.

Balls Deep - Balls Deep has been eliminated from Playoff contention. Balls Deep clinches the 1st Overall 2023 Draft Pick with a loss.

Cascadia-Sunbelt

Ultimate Savages - x Ultimate Savages has clinched a Playoff spot. There is no path to win the division in Week 11.

Black Hole Son - Black Hole Son clinches Playoffs with win.

Rainelo Hawks - Rainelo Hawks clinches Playoffs with win + The Busy Killers loss OR win + Straight Edge Society loss OR win + The Busy Killers + Straight Edge Society loss.

The Busy Killers - The Busy Killers has no path to clinching Playoffs in Week 11. The Busy Killers will be eliminated from Playoff contention with a loss.

Northern-Midwest

Crocs - x Crocs has clinched a Playoff spot. There is no path to win the division in Week 11.

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints - LilShupeScoresBIGPoints clinches Playoffs with win OR tie + Straight Edge Society loss.

Straight Edge Society - Straight Edge Society clinches Playoffs with win + LilShupeScoresBIGPoints loss + Black Hole Son loss.

VanillaGorillas - VanillaGorillas has been eliminated from Playoff contention.

Atlantic-Southeast

Yuba City Sultans - x Yuba City Sultans has clinched a Playoff spot. Yuba City Sultans clinches Atlantic-Southeast with win + Evolution loss. Yuba City Sultans has no clinching scenario for Homefield Advantage in Week 11.

Evolution - Evolution clinches Playoffs with win OR tie + Rainelo Hawks loss + LilShupeScoresBIGPoints loss.

Hahn's Hitters - There is no Playoff clinching scenario for Hahn's Hitters in Week 11. Hahn's Hitters can be eliminated from Playoff contention with a loss.

The Canadian Cripplers - The Canadian Cripplers have been eliminated from Playoff contention.

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[jrsechelon]

Ranking Each Team

Ranking Each Team Entering Week 10 - 16 to 1

16. Balls Deep (0-9) Balls Deep still hasn't gotten a win this season. The longest losing streak in the Balls Deep franchise and the longest losing streak in Elite Fantasy League history by any team. This team cannot seem to find any form of consistency, and after a Week 9 loss to Rainelo Hawks, the one team many believed would be Balls Deeps' first victory, 0-13, is looking more and more realistic.

15. Hyrule Empire (2-7) Although Hyrule Empire would pick 4th overall if the season ended today, in these power rankings, they find themselves 15th. Losers of seven straight, Hyrule Empire is destined for another losing season, marking eight out of nine seasons being under .500%. Injuries and inconsistency continue to riddle this team which has hindered the star power we all expected to have an impact. There will be some serious talks on what player to keep moving forward into 2023 as Hyrule Empire finds itself in a top 5 draft position.

14. VanillaGorillas (2-7) A surprising victory last week over The Canadian Cripplers gave VanillasGorillas their second win on the season but even with the dub, they are still a long way from finding themselves in a position for the playoffs. Kyler Murray has been lackluster, and now on the injury report, VanillaGorillas looks toward Justin Fields, who has been gaining more and more hype. Much like the two teams below VanillaGorillas, the remaining games will be auditions for these players to see what the front office decides for 2023.

13. The Canadian Cripplers (3-6) The Canadian Cripplers suffered a big loss to damage their postseason hopes last weekend but are getting healthy coming into Week 10 with four weeks remaining. A big Week 10 match-up will truly decide how the rest of The Canadian Cripplers seasons go, whether they become buyers or sellers as the trade deadline looms (November 25th). Justin Herbert had a ton of promise leading into the season, but he has fallen short without his top targets. Sitting at 13th in the rankings, The Canadian Cripplers are playing their Super Bowl this week and must pull out the win to muster any hope.

12. The Busy Killers (4-5) The Busy Killers got a big win last week and maintained hope for a wildcard or even a division title. With the backups in last weekend, they were able to pull out a shocking upset. With Dak and company back, they have a big date against Evolution, which The Busy Killers have always struggled against. Sitting at 12th, The Busy Killers could be ranked a little higher. Still, the way the other teams are performing in front of them, they will have to continue fighting the underdog motto to find themselves higher in the rankings and possible postseason seeding.

11. Rainelo Hawks (4-5) The defending Super Bowl Champions are on a three-game winning streak and don't look now have a huge game this weekend that will truly shape seeding in the postseason. Rainelo Hawks have found help from players that aren't as well known during this three-game winning streak but have been notably lighting it up with stud receiver AJ Brown. Brown quickly makes his claim as the best receiver in the league. Sitting right outside the ten playoff spots, Rainelo Hawks are hitting the ground running at the right time. Like last year, they're looking to gain steam straight into the postseason. They find themselves in a must-win game in Week 10.

10. Black Mambas (5-4) That loss last week hurt. Black Mambas had an opportunity to cut into Rice-A-Roni's division lead. Some will say that Black Mambas shouldn't be below any team who doesn't have a winning record, but last week's performance weakened Black Mambas' case as a contender. Even though they should be able to bounce back and find themselves in the postseason, The Busy Killers exposed Black Mambas, and now that it's on film, other opposing teams will be able to execute that same style against Jalen Hurts and Black Mambas. Sitting at 10 in our rankings, Black Mambas looks like the weakest team with five or more wins.

9. Hahn's Hitters (4-5) Hahn's Hitters came alive last week. We've been waiting for this team to make some noise, and finally, their running backs woke up! By far, they have the best running trio in the league, and if these running backs can continue the kind of performance they had last week, Hahn's Hitters look like a real threat! Since giving the reigns to Trevor Lawrence, this team has been more balanced. Hahn's Hitters have a huge game this week, and cutting inside the top ten within the rankings, and they will want to prove they belong when they face the defending Super Bowl Champions.

8. Straight Edge Society (5-4) Since losing Jamaar Chase, Straight Edge Society has lost two tightly contested games. Going from the top of the division to third and being swept by LilShupeScoresBIGPoints, Straight Edge Society can't afford to lose many more games. A weekend without several of their star players this weekend against Ultimate Savages, Straight Edge Society will need to hope the trade earlier this week will take some pressure off of Kenneth Walker, whose been the bell cow the last few weeks. Seeing how Chase will not be in the lineup for a little longer, acquiring Hopkins can be a big win if they can start winning. Getting the win this week and moving up into the rankings, Straight Edge Society can become a terrifying team once they get healthy, having Hopkins, Chase, and Jeudy facing off against defenses down the stretch.

7. Evolution (5-4) Evolution stopped Yuba City Sultans from winning their division last week and moved their winning streak to two straight. Evolution continues to find ways to push toward its fifteenth straight postseason appearance. This year has been a bit more difficult than years past, but Evolution, through trades and sound judgment within the free agency, has become a duel threat team on the ground, in the air, and on the defensive side of things. At 7th overall in our rankings. Evolution again looks like they will be heading to the postseason, whether as a division champion or a wildcard team - they seem to be heading in the right direction as long as Tua Tagovailoa remains healthy.

6. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints (6-3) A last-minute drive led by Tom Brady secured the win for LilShupeScoresBIGPoints, but it left more questions than answers. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints hasn't looked like the dominant team we've grown to know them to be. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints sits at 6th in our rankings but could easily be lower. They haven't made much of a statement in over a month now. Still, sweeping divisional opponent Straight Edge Society ensures their chance of winning the Northern-Midwest division, as long as they don't fail to win when they should - like this coming Sunday against the lowly Hyrule Empire. Brady has to play better, regardless of being the GOAT and passing for over 100,000 yards in his career. For LilShupeScoresBIGPoints to maintain a high ranking and a chance to higher seeding, Brady is going to have to put this team on his back moving forward.

5. Black Hole Son (6-3) Black Hole Son losers of two straight and suffered a massive defeat last week against Ultimate Savages, Black Hole Son is a bit in limbo. Barely maintaining their division lead, they will be without Lamar Jackson this week in a game they need with Ultimate Savages nipping at their heels. Sitting at 5 in the rankings, Black Hole Son will hope their running backs can shoulder the brunt of the load this weekend. Trading away star receivers DeAndre Hopkins and Amari Cooper, a few are scratching their heads as to what the general manager is thinking when they've been holding strong in the Cascadia Sunbelt division and overall as a top team in the EFL.

4. Crocs (6-3) Crocs lost last week but maintained first in their division due to how things fell between Straight Edge Society and LilShupeScoresBIGPoints. At 4th in the rankings, Crocs need to figure out their quarterback situation to continue their success. Matthew Stafford has played lackluster and is dealing with concussions, and Ryan Tannehill has been suffering from injuries himself. Derrick Henry is the workhorse but will need help for the Crocs to have continued success. Sitting at 4th in the rankings isn't a bad spot for a second-year team, but with a very tight division, they will need to win this week over a team they should defeat handily.

3. Ultimate Savages (6-3) Ultimate Savages has turned its season around. Not having a draft pick until the sixth round back in August, many left this team dead in the water, but they have wheeled and dealed to the point that they find themselves a threat in their division and a contender against the rest of the teams in the league. At 3rd in our rankings, Ultimate Savages has impressed with a five-game winning streak and a chance to take over first place in their division this week if things fall the way they need. Ultimate Savages have been impressive and have their coach in the talks for 'Coach of the Year.'

2. Rice-A-Roni (7-2) While Ultimate Savages coach maybe being considered as 'Coach of the Year, Rice-A-Roni's general manager is being talked about within the EFL circles as 'GM of the Year.' Boy, have they maintained a great strength of offense and defense every week. Rice-A-Roni's came out of nowhere in their first year in a tough league and have opposed their will upon their opponents weekly. Sitting at 2nd in our rankings, Rice-A-Roni is bound to have a top seed in the postseason and might even possibly grab the top seed. In a game this week against Balls Deep (divisional opponent), Rice-A-Roni can almost taste a Golden State division title as the season draws to an end. Before that, though, they will need to watch whether star quarterback Josh Allen can play, but if not, they've shown they can still win with backup quarterback Jimmy G.

1. Yuba City Sultans (7-2) Yuba City Sultans sits at the top of our rankings and the top of the league as the number one seed. Although they lost to division rival Evolution, Yuba City Sultans shouldn't be too concerned. The Sultan's running game is getting healthy and becoming more powerful, and their receivers are one of the better cores in the league, and fifth-year quarterback Daniel Jones has taken that next step as a franchise quarterback. The Sultans usually take losses better than most teams; they learn lessons and tend not to make the same mistake twice. I wouldn't be surprised if Yuba City Sultans don't lose another game for the rest of the season. At 1st in our rankings, Yuba City Sultans looks to be the team to beat going forward, and their famous quote from the draft seems to be more true than ever. "They're doing alright, kids."

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[jrsechelon]

Week 9

Thursday Night Football

(5-3) @ Black Mambas @ The Busy Killers (3-5)

Black Mambas leads series 6-3.

Black Mambas is a game back from first in the Golden State division.

The Busy Killers will be without a big part of their offense but hopes Geno Smith can snag an upset at home to stay relevant in the playoff hunt.

Projections have Black Mambas winning handily.

Division Games

(7-1) Yuba City Sultans @ Evolution (4-4)

Evolution leads series 6-4.

Yuba City Sultans defeated Evolution in Week 4 in a decisive victory.

Yuba City Sultans can clinch the Atlantic-Southeast with a season sweep over Evolution.

Projections have Evolution defeating Yuba City Sultans to keep slim hope alive for a division title.

(6-2) Black Hole Son @ Ultimate Savages (5-3)

Black Hole Son leads the series 2-1.

Black Hole Son defeated Ultimate Savages in Week 4 by a slim margin.

Black Hole Son could be on the verge of their second division title with a win over Ultimate Savages and a loss by both The Busy Killers and Rainelo Hawks.

Projections have Black Hole Son narrowly defeating Ultimate Savages.

(5-3) Straight Edge Society @ LilShupeScoresBIGPoints (5-3)

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints leads the series at 4-3.

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints demolished Straight Edge Society in their previous match-up in Week 2.

Straight Edge Society, with the loss last week to Yuba City Sultans by 1-point, went from first in their division to third.

Projections show Straight Edge Society losing to a divisional rival, LilShupeScoresBIGPoints, by 11-points this time.

Still Searching For Their First

(3-5) Rainelo Hawks @ Balls Deep (0-8)

Balls Deep leads the series at 2-1.

Rainelo Hawks gave Balls Deep their first win in franchise history; a poll a few weeks ago showed many fans believe Rainelo Hawks will give Balls Deep their first win this season.

Rumors are rumbling that Balls Deep has benched Aaron Rodgers in favor of Marcus Mariota, yes you heard that right.

Projections have Rainelo Hawks moving their winning streak to 3-straight after this week and Balls Deep falling to the dreaded 0-9.

Hope Is Still Alive - At Least For One

(1-7) VanillaGorillas @ The Canadian Cripplers (3-5)

VanillaGorillas leads the series with an 8-5 record over The Canadian Cripplers.

The Canadian Cripplers will find themselves on the road the next three weeks after this home game, so they need to muster up a decisive victory over the lowly Gorillas with Herbert and Allen returning.

The Canadian Cripplers are still hoping for a Wildcard seed, while VanillaGorillas continues to build towards 2023 acquiring more draft capital.

Projections have VanillaGorillas pulling the upset and pretty much ending The Canadian Cripplers with a 3-point victory.

Sunday Night Football

(2-6) Hyrule Empire @ Hahn's Hitters (3-5)

This will be their first time matching up - Hyrule Empire has a long flight from California to Florida.

Hyrule Empire has lost 6-straight for the fourth time in franchise history; they have never lost 7-straight.

With a loss, Hyrule Empire will guarantee another losing season, marking eight out of nine seasons with a losing record.

Projections have Hahn's Hitters taking the dub over Hyrule Empire by over 10-points.

Monday Night Football

(6-2) Crocs @ Rice-A-Roni (6-2)

This will be the first match between these two younger but dominant franchises.

Both teams are fighting to maintain first place in their respective divisions, and neither can afford to lose.

These two teams have the best running games in the league and will be decided on the ground.

Projections have Rice-A-Roni defeating Crocs by 1-point.

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[jrsechelon]

Trick Or Treat

Trick Or Treat

Golden State Division

(5-2) Rice-A-Roni - Trick: Rice-A-Roni tricked us all into thinking they were the team to beat, but with a loss last week to Rainelo Hawks, they are back to the drawing board in a Week 8 away game against division rival Hyrule Empire.

(4-3) Black Mambas - Treat: Even with a loss last weekend to Ultimate Savages, Black Mambas received a treat with Rice-A-Roni losing. With a win over Rice-A-Roni earlier this season, Black Mambas has a chance to find themselves first after Week 8 in the Golden State Division with a win and a Rice-A-Roni loss.

(2-5) Hyrule Empire - Treat: Hyrule Empire may have fallen victim to allowing the most points in franchise history last week, but they are getting healthy and have a chance to upset Rice-A-Roni in a must-win game. Hyrule Empire should find some treats in a healthy Johnathon Taylor, a focused Patrick Mahomes, and Zeke Elliot preparing to suit up.

(0-7) Balls Deep - Trick: Balls Deep has been the brunt of all the tricks, from a controversial call that gave The Canadian Cripplers the win a few weeks ago to injury after injury. Balls Deep will not get any treats this week when they face a red-hot Crocs team. Their only treat may come after the season when they find themselves (most likely) holding the 1st overall pick in 2023.

Cascadia-Sunbelt Division

(6-1) Black Hole Son - Trick/Treat: Black Hole Son is filling their basket full of playmakers. Such treats come with a price, though. Black Hole Son is in the win-now mode, so trading for such versatile players comes with the price of giving up future draft picks. These treats will be sweet if Black Hole Son can continue their dominance. Otherwise, they might find themselves being the trick of the league.

(4-3) Ultimate Savages - Trick: Ultimate Savages won a big game in Week 7, but the next four straight games will make or break their season. After starting slow, Ultimate Savages have found a rhythm, but they're only tricking themselves with the next four games being against teams all above .500.

(3-4) The Busy Killers - Treat: The Busy Killers again was a thorn in the side of an ex-division rival, The Canadian Cripplers. One game under .500 and battling for what is a deeper Wildcard opportunity than years past, sweeping the Super Bowl Champions could be the tasty treat they are looking for to propel them toward a Wildcard spot.

(2-5) Rainelo Hawks - Treat: After a massive win over Rice-A-Roni to save their season, the defending Super Bowl Champions have three back-to-back games that are winnable. That is the treat that Rainelo Hawks have been waiting for, and after defeating one of the top teams this season last week, it should give this team some extra confidence hosting division rival, The Busy Killers.

Northern-Midwest Division

(5-2) Straight Edge Society - Trick: Straight Edge Society scored the third most in Elite Fantasy League history last week against Hyrule Empire, putting up 190. Only VanillaGorillas (192, Week 11, 2011), & Black Mambas (194, Week 14, 2018) have scored more. What should feel like a treat by jumping into first place in the Northern-Midwest may eventually feel like a trick. Week 8 Straight Edge Society flies to East Rutherford, NJ, to face off against Yuba City Sultans, the top dog in the EFL now. Last year these two had some epic divisional battles. Straight Edge Society losing Ja'Marr Chase is not the trick they needed in a pivotal game that will determine top seeding.

(5-2) LilShupeScoresBIGPoints - Treat: After losing two straight, which is rare for this team, only ever losing three straight in their franchise last season, they find themselves in a very treatable situation in Week 8. LilShupeScoresBIGPoints has a way of getting into the head of certain teams, and one of those teams is Ultimate Savages. There is this sense that LilShupeScoresBIGPoints should be able to right the ship in Week 8, even with Tom Brady playing subpar at best.

(5-2) Crocs - Treat: Crocs have looked dominant. Defeating division rival LilShupeScoresBIGPoints, Crocs look to have found their way around the league and are serving up tricks while receiving treats through slowly moving up in the standings. Crocs have a Week 8 game that should give them more treats, but you cannot take anyone lightly in this league, even a winless team. Crocs have the easiest remaining schedule in their division, so the treats could keep coming.

(1-6) VanillaGorillas - Treat: Although they were close last week to save their season, this team has hit the reset button and is looking to 2023. Trading away players like Amari Cooper, Miles Sanders, and Tyreek Hill for draft capital shows VanillaGorillas is looking to get some much need treats in what will come as big-name players in 2023 with multiple draft picks.

Atlantic-Southeast

(6-1) Yuba City Sultans - Treat: Yuba City Sultans have a strong hold over their division and only have two games left against teams above .500. The Sultans look better than the year they won the Super Bowl The Sultans also have three 4th round picks in 2023 which will be a treat for an already dominate team. Yuba City Sultans 3-0 in a struggling division, they can be treated as divisional champions as early as Week 10.

(3-4) Hahn's Hitters - Treat: After starting slow and trying to find their footing, they have been able to pull out some wins, which have been a treat for them. Holding bragging rights in South Beach after last week's win, Hahn's Hitters is looking to continue their winning streak to three straight with a divisional game against The Canadian Cripplers.

(3-4) Evolution - Trick: You'd imagine acquiring Tyreek Hill would give them a treat, but this team has too many holes, even with Tyreek Hill coming in to try and fill the lack of offensive consistency. Tua looked shaky last week, and one could hope he will get back to his early season form before the concussions, but Evolution doesn't look like themselves this season. I expect this season to continue to become ever more tricky.

(2-5) The Canadian Cripplers - Trick/Treat: The Canadian Cripplers have traded a few players here and there to help build towards next year, but they are in a weird place. They are trying to navigate whether they're being tricked into trading players away to build for 2023 or given a treat by having the easiest remaining schedule and trying to get out of the basement of their division, eventually finding themselves in a position for a Wildcard spot. The Canadian Cripplers, much like Black Hole Son, can find themselves reaping the rewards of the treats but, at the same time, might eventually find themselves feeling the tricks of the 2022 EFL Season.

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[jrsechelon]

Week 7 Already!

Thursday Night Football

(4-2) Black Mambas @ Ultimate Savages (3-3)

Ultimate Savages and Black Mambas will be forced to start their backup Quarterbacks in a big Thursday Night battle.

Projections have these two twos tying.

Black Mambas defeated Ultimate Savages in their only match-up thus far in Week 7 of last season by 16.

History To Repeat?

(0-6) Balls Deep @ Yuba City Sultans (5-1)

Balls Deep has never lost six straight in franchise history until now. They have continued to suffer injuries, losing Logan Ryan now to I.R. - that is a total of six players on injured reserve for Balls Deep.

Yuba City Sultans had only started 5-1 once before, in 2016, when they lost Week 1 to LilShupeScoresBIGPoints like they did this season and then rallied off five straight to then lose in Week 7 to the worst team - will history repeat itself?

Yuba City Sultans leads the head-to-head series 1-0, defeating Balls Deep in Week 12 of the 2020 season by 93 points.

Looking To Maintain Perfection

(2-4) Hyrule Empire @ Straight Edge Society (4-2)

Straight Edge Society will look to maintain perfection over Hyrule Empire, as Straight Edge Society holds a 5-0 record all-time over Hyrule Empire.

These two teams have not played one another since the 2018 season in Week 7 when Straight Edge Society defeated Hyrule Empire by 7-points.

Hyrule Empire should have Running Back Johnathon Taylor back after being sidelined for two straight weeks.

Showdown in South Beach

(3-3) Evolution @ Hahn's Hitters (2-4) - Division Game

Evolution will have Tua Tagovailoa back after two weeks of being sidelined due to back-to-back concussions, while Hahn's Hitters may be without Russell Wilson, who is dealing with a hamstring injury. Evolution dealt Chase Claypool to Black Hole Son in exchange for Michael Gallup and Kareem Hunt.

This will be their first time facing off against one another in what should become a twice-a-year battle within the division and bragging rights for Miami.

Early projections have Hahn's Hitters pulling off the upset against Evolution.

New Kid On The Block Versus Struggling Veteran

(1-5) Rainelo Hawks @ Rice-A-Roni (5-1)

Rice-A-Roni reigns as the best team in the league after a tight victory over once-undefeated, LilShupeScoresBIGPoints last week. Rainelo Hawks defending Super Bowl Champions, continues to struggle, falling to 1-5.

Rice-A-Roni will be without some key players, including star Quarterback Josh Allen. Early Projections have Rainelo Hawks pulling off the surprising upset. As thoughts going into this game, Rainelo Hawks would have been favored.

Rainelo Hawks have acquired JuJu Smith-Schuster from The Busy Killers to help bolster their receiving core.

Do-Or-Die

(5-1) Black Hole Son @ VanillaGorillas (1-5)

VanillaGorillas come into Week 7 in a must-win scenario. In a division with three of the best teams in the league, VanillaGorillas must win this match-up against the top team in the Cascadia-Sunbelt division to keep their season alive. Black Hole Son continues to look impressive, pulling even further away in their division after moving to 3-0 within the division and 5-1 overall.

VanillaGorillas holds the record over Black Hole Son at 9-5, with Black Hole Son getting the win last season in Week 4 by 62.

Projections show Black Hole Son winning by the slightest of margins, 2-points. We'll see if the newly acquired receiver, Chase Claypool, will come into play.

Sunday Night Football

(5-1) LilShupeScoresBIGPoints @ Crocs (4-2) - Division Game

This will be their first time facing off against one another. Both teams are coming off difficult losses last week, and neither will want to lose two straight in a big division match-up with so much at stake.

Crocs can leapfrog into first place in the Northern-Midwest with a win and a loss by Straight Edge Society.

Ryan Tannehill will get the nod in place of Matthew Stafford for Crocs, who are projected to defeat LilShupeScoresBIGPoints by 9-points by early Vegas odds.

Monday Night Football

(2-4) The Canadian Cripplers @ The Busy Killers (2-4)

Old division rivalries meet up in a Monday Night clash of 2-4 teams. With both teams vying for a position, neither can afford to lose. These two teams have some of the more exciting games regardless of record.

The Busy Killers hold the record over The Canadian Cripplers at 7-6-1.

The Busy Killers defeated The Canadian Cripplers twice last season before moving into a new division this season. With the acquisitions of O.J. Howard and Donovan Wilson, The Busy Killers, hope that trading JuJu, who was finally coming on, doesn't bite them in the behind. While The Canadian Cripplers have been rumored to be looking for a Running Back through the trade market.

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[jrsechelon]

Half Way Through The Season Thoughts

Half Way Through The Season Thoughts

Golden State:

Rice-A-Roni is a complete team from top to bottom. Sitting at 4-1, they look like a Super Bowl contender but will have their toughest test to date this weekend against LilShupeScoresBIGPoints, the only remaining undefeated team. Rice-A-Roni looks poised to be a true contender as the season carries on. At the halfway point, they are one of the better teams in the league.

Black Mambas went from 0-2 to 3-2. Capturing a big win over Straight Edge Society last week in a tight contest helps position them in a fight for the Golden State division. Black Mambas have a big win over Rice-A-Roni already. At 3-2, Black Mambas look like they are finding their feet at the halfway mark.

Hyrule Empire has now fallen three-straight weeks. After starting 2-0, they look like the same old team every season. We have yet to see them defeat anybody to dominate at the halfway point. Week 1 doesn't count because everyone is 0-0. Three-straight blowout losses don't give your fanbase confidence as we advance.

Balls Deep has endured injury after injury. We thought they were finally on their way to their first win on the season in a 1-point victory over The Canadian Cripplers. Some say the refs looked to have dropped the ball on this one, where The Canadian Cripplers got a controversial victory. At the halfway mark of the season, Balls Deep seems to be on point, falling victim to injuries early and losing tight games in controversy. Being 0-5, Balls Deep has got to feel cheated after last week's loss. However, they cannot allow it to bury them. Usually, Balls Deep turns it around after the halfway mark, so now it is the time to turn the tide. Let's see what they got in store for us.

Cascadia-Sunbelt:

Black Hole Son fell victim to their first defeat of the season last week. Now at 4-1, they have a date against the defending Super Bowl Champions and division rival. Black Hole Son has looked promising, but last week's defeat was a punch to the gut. Black Hole Son has a 2-0 division record, so with a win this Sunday, they can almost secure a division title at the halfway point of the season, bearing a free fall.

Ultimate Savages held on for their second division win of the season last week as we reached the halfway mark. At 2-3, they should hold their head high on having an almost .500 record when they didn't draft until the 6th round. Ultimate Savages' big win of the season was trading for Delvin Cook, who has been a great weapon thus far and most certainly will be with them for the foreseeable future.

The Busy Killers have yet to be able to defeat the elite teams thus far this season, and now at the halfway mark, they lost to a team who they probably should have defeated last week. 2-3, The Busy Killers will look to continue to get Dak Prescott healthy in hopes for him to start sooner than later; in the meantime acquiring Geno Smith for Delvin Cook hasn't looked like too big of a mistake the way Tony Pollard has handled the rock. The Busy Killers will need Dak back to compete because their schedule remains one of the more difficult.

Rainelo Hawks got their first win this season in the Super Bowl rematch. They needed a big win, and they got it. At 1-4, they will now look to right the ship. The first half of the season was supposed to be easy, and the next two weeks should truly make or break this team. Rainelo Hawks has the capability to right the ship. Now that the first half of the season is over and they finally got their first win, they can focus on each week and not worry about repeating as champions or winning in general. One week at a time!

Northern-Midwest

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints is again the dominant team we have known them to be. The last remaining undefeated team, LilShupeScoresBIGPoints, has not trailed once this season. Through five games, they have scored first and never looked back. For LilShupeScoresBIGPoints, it is never about the regular season, but the postseason-the real test will be whether they can defeat their old quarterback, Josh Allen, in the Game of The Week.

Crocs used their draft capital to stockpile their roster to a position where they are now a true contender. Last season's woes have been forgotten and in a division that is being called the toughest division in the EFL, Crocs, the second-year team, is looking poised for at least a wildcard spot. Going forward, Crocs have the toughest remaining schedule, so the question is can this young franchise withstand the onslaught they are about to endure?

Straight Edge Society, halfway through, has defeated the teams they should have and lost to the teams realistically they should have. Now at 3-2, Straight Edge Society has one of the easiest remaining schedules. They will need to figure out a way to stretch the ball downfield to Chase if they want to find themselves in another top seed come the postseason.

VanillaGorillas drafted in the top five and have yet to be able to transition the talent from the draft board to the field. At 1-4, they look lowly and unlikely to compete for the postseason this year. They have found themselves in the most difficult division, so it may be tough sledding as the season progresses.

Atlantic-Southeast

Yuba City Sultans continues to pull away from the rest of the Atlantic-Southeast teams. 3-0 in the division, their 3 out of 4 wins are within the division, which gives them a big edge over the other teams. At the halfway mark, these Sultans look to be once again capable of another Super Bowl title. They have a true test this Thursday night when they face one of the tougher teams in a short week.

Evolution has fallen to 2-3 and has lost three straight. It has been a very long time since Evolution has been under .500. In The next two weeks, they have divisional games and will need to win those if they hope to continue to contend.

The Canadian Cripplers won a wild game against Balls Deep and pushed their record to 2-3. Many believed this team had one of the better rosters in the league. Now at 2-3 going into the second half of the season, The Canadian Cripplers have one of the easier schedules remaining. Still, they need help getting Justin Herbert to look like Justin Herbert. Is it the Canadien cold? What is it? The Cripplers have multiple players that can produce and get dubs, but if they are still looking for chemistry to happen through osmosis on the field, they will again be picking in the top five in 2023.

Hahn's Hitters falls again in a division battle. Now at 0-2 in the division, 1-4 overall. They are having a challenging time starting their Elite Fantasy League career. 5 of the last 8 games from now on are divisional games, so they still have a shot at winning the division. Still, it has to start with a turnaround non-division game this week. For Hahn's Hitters, it is growing pains so far through the first half of the season - can they find some silver lining? Well, usually, all franchises struggle in their first season unless they are fortunate.

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[jrsechelon]

Welcome To Week 5

Thursday Night Football

(2-2) Hyrule Empire @ Crocs (3-1)

This will be the first time these two teams face off

Both suffered losses last week

Johnathon Taylor versus Derrick Henry - should be an exciting match-up, or would have if Taylor was going to play. It'll be a tough challenge for Hyrule Empire without star back, JT

Super Bowl XIV Rematch

(0-4) Rainelo Hawks @ Evolution (2-2)

Rainelo Hawks leads the all-time series 7-5 in the regular season, 2-1 in the postseason (including Super Bowl) & defeated Evolution in Super Bowl XIV by 20

Rainelo Hawks have gone from first to tied for worst with four straight losses for the first time in franchise history

Evolution will need to find a new quarterback after Tua went down with a horrific concussion two weeks in a row - is his career in jeopardy?

Divisional Battles

(2-2) The Busy Killers @ Ultimate Savages (1-3)

Ultimate Savages leads the all-time series 1-0

Ultimate Savages defeated The Busy Killers by eight points in Week 4 last season

This is The Busy Killers & Ultimate Savage's third divisional game this season; both teams hold a 1-1 division record, both defeating Rainelo Hawks & losing to Black Hole Son

(1-3) VanillaGorillas @ LilShupeScoresBIGPoints (4-0)

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints holds a 9-4 record against VanillaGorillas

VanillaGorillas lost their 200th regular season game last week, while LilShupeScoresBIGPoints won their 130th regular season game

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints defeated VanillaGorillas in Week 5 last season by 36-points

(3-1) Yuba City Sultans @ Hahn's Hitters (1-3)

This is Hahn's Hitters first divisional game this season

Yuba City Sultans can take a commanding lead in their division with a win over Hahn's Hitters

Hahn's Hitters got the first win of their franchise last week & will look to get back in the fight for the Atlantic-Southeast division

Early Toliet Bowl?

(0-4) Balls Deep @ The Canadian Cripplers (1-3)

The Canadian Cripplers holds a 1-0 record all-time against Balls Deep as childhood friends renew their rivalry. The Canadian Cripplers defeated Balls Deep Week 7 in 2020 by 16

Balls Deep continues to suffer multiple injuries but stated in Wednesday's press conference, "I have faith still this season. Miracles have happened before." Relating to last season when they weathered the injury storm early on to rebound and make the postseason

The Canadian Cripplers got their first win last week against Hyrule Empire this season. Their schedule is the second easiest remaining as we advance

Sunday Night Football

(3-1) Straight Edge Society @ Black Mambas (2-2)

Straight Edge Society leads the series 8-1-1 against Black Mambas

Straight Edge Society has a chance to win their 100th regular season game on Sunday Night Football

Straight Edge Society defeated Black Mambas in Week 5 last year by 18-points

Monday Night Football

(3-1) Rice-A-Roni @ Black Hole Son (4-0)

This will be the first time both these top teams face off

Both teams are in first place in their respected divisions - Golden State & Cascadia-Sunbelt

This is Black Hole Son's best start since going 12-2 when they won Super Bowl XIII

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[jrsechelon]

Week 4 Preview

Thursday Night Football

(3-0) Crocs @ Straight Edge Society (2-1) - Divisional Game

Straight Edge Society leads the series record 1-0

Crocs is 1-0 in the division, while Straight Edge Society is 0-1 early on

Projections have Crocs defeating Straight Edge Society by 3-points

Battle For First

(2-1) Evolution @ Yuba City Sultans (2-1) - Divisional Game

Evolution leads series 6-3 all-time

Evolution defeated Yuba City Sultans in Week 11 last year by 39-points

Winning team will hold sole possession of the first place in their respected division (Atlantic-Southeast)

Renewing Old Rivalries

(1-2) Black Mambas @ Rainelo Hawks (0-3)

Black Mambas leads all-time match-up with a 7-4 record

Rainelo Hawks has never started 0-3 or worse in their 16 seasons in the Elite Fantasy League

Black Mambas defeated Rainelo Hawks in Week 1 last season by 28-points

(0-3) The Canadian Cripplers @ Hyrule Empire (2-1)

The Canadian Cripplers lead the all-time series at 4-3

Hyrule Empire & The Canadian Cripplers had played each other six straight seasons (counting this weekend), including last year when Hyrule Empire defeated The Canadian Cripplers in Week 10 by 23

The Canadian Cripplers had only started 0-4 twice, in 2012 when they went 0-4 and then won Week 5 & again in 2017 when they lost eight straight to start the season.

Looking To Stay Undefeated

(1-2) Ultimate Savage @ Black Hole Son (3-0) - Divisional Game

The all-time series is tied at 1-1

Ultimate Savage defeated Black Hole Son Week 11 last season by 94-points

Black Hole Son can take a stranglehold on the Cascadia-Sunbelt Division with a win

(3-0) LilShupeScoresBIGPoints @ The Busy Killers (2-1)

The all-time series is at .500 between these two with a 2-2-1 record

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints defeated The Busy Killers in Week 7 of the 2020 season by 35-points

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints looks like the early Super Bowl favorite

Sunday Night Football

(0-3) Hahn's Hitters @ VanillaGorillas (1-2)

This will be VanillaGorillas 200th regular season game in franchise history

Both teams find themselves in last place in their respected divisions

Projections have Hahn's Hitters & VanillaGorillas to tie in a late Sunday Night Football Game

Monday Night Football

(0-3) Balls Deep @ Rice-A-Roni (2-1) - Divisional Game

Both teams are 0-1 in their division (Golden State) thus far this season

Balls Deep lost another player to injury (Sterling Sheppard - Season Ending Injury) last week

Rice-A-Roni suffered their first loss in franchise history last week to division rival Black Mambas

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[jrsechelon]

Week 3 Games

Thursday Night Football: (1-1) The Busy Killers @ VanillaGorillas (1-1)

The Busy Killers lead all-time series 8-3-0

The Busy Killers defeated VanillaGorillas Week 12 last season by 89 points

Both teams had division games last week. The Busy Killers won, whereas VanillaGorillas lost

2-0 versus 2-0

(2-0) Hyrule Empire @ Black Hole Son (2-0)

Black Hole Son lead all-time series 7-6-0

Hyrule Empire & Black Hole Son split the series match-up last year when they were in the same division

Hyrule Empire & Black Hole Son are both in 1st place in their divisions entering Week 3

(2-0) LIlShupeScoresBIGPoints @ Evolution (2-0)

Evolution lead all-time series 5-4-0

Evolution defeated LilShupeScoresBIGPoints in Week 1 last season

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints & Evolution have defeated each other respectively in the last two Postseason Wildcard Rounds

Expansion Highs & Lows

(2-0) Rice-A-Roni @ Black Mambas (0-2) - Division Game

This is Rice-A-Roni's first divisional game this season

Black Mambas hasn't started 0-3 since the 2015 season

Rice-A-Roni has acquired Stefon Diggs in a big trade earlier in the week, which should bolster their already dangerous receiving core

(0-2) Hahn's Hitters @ Crocs (2-0)

This will be Crocs Home-Opener for the 2022 season, while this will be Hahn's Hitters first road game of the season

Projections have Crocs defeating Hahn's Hitters by 9-points

Hahn's Hitters & Crocs are two of the three newest expansion franchises & Crocs is looking like a real contender in only their second season

Back In The Division - Rivalry Renewed

(1-1) Yuba City Sultans @ The Canadian Cripplers (0-2) - Division Game

Yuba City Sultans lead all-time series 7-4-0

This is a Super Bowl XIV rematch - Yuba City Sultans defeated The Canadian Cripplers by 10-points

Yuba City Sultans defeated The Canadia Cripplers in Week 5 last year by 114-points

Sunday Night Football: (0-2) Ultimate Savages @ Rainelo Hawks (0-2) - Division Game

Ultimate Savages lead all-time series 3-1-0 in the battle of Seattle

Rainelo Hawks defeated Ultimate Savages in Week 14 last season by 22-points to secure a Wildcard spot

Ultimate Savage defending Division Champion versus Super Bowl XV Sunday Night Football - Neither team can afford to go 0-3, but one will

Monday Night Football: (1-1) Straight Edge Society @ Balls Deep (0-2)

Straight Edge Society lead all-time series 2-1-0

Straight Edge Society defeated Balls Deep by 13-points in Week 2 last season

Balls Deep has now started 0-2 for three straight seasons

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[jrsechelon]

Week 2 Match-Ups

Week 2 Match-Ups:

Dak-less:

Rainelo Hawks (0-1) @ The Busy Killers (0-1) - Divisional Game

• The Busy Killers will be without their field general Dak Prescott for 6 to 8 weeks. The loss is a real blow to their season. In past years, as Dak goes, so does The Busy Killers.

• Rainelo Hawks defeated The Busy Killers in Week 5 last season.

• The Busy Killers lost Week 1 to divisional opponent Black Hole Son; they can't afford to fall 0-2 on the season & within the division this early.

• The Busy Killers hold the lead in the all-time series at 8-6-0.

Going The Distance:

Yuba City Sultans (0-1) @ Ultimate Savages (0-1) - (Thursday Night Football)

• This game will be their first Regular Season match-up.

• Ultimate Savages trounced Yuba City Sultans in last year's Postseason.

• Yuba City Sultans will have a quick turnaround from losing on Monday Night Football to LilShupeScoresBIGPoints to having to play primetime on Thursday. Ultimate Savages lost primetime on Sunday Night Football, & both teams will look to bounce back under the Thursday night lights.

• Yuba City Sultans will be traveling 2,421 miles (New York to Seattle) in their second of three consecutive road games to start the season.

The Canadian Cripplers (0-1) @ Rice-A-Roni (1-0)

• The Canadian Cripplers failed to remain undefeated against Crocs in Week 1.

• Rice-A-Roni won a problematic Week 1 contest against the other expansion franchise, Hahn's Hitters in Miami.

• The Canadian Cripplers is one of the original eight, so it'll be a challenging test for Rice-A-Roni in their Home Opener.

• Last Week Rice-A-Roni had to travel across the country; The Canadian Cripplers will now be leaving the comfort of Canada, traveling 1,813 miles by air to the Golden State to play a game in San Fransisco, which is calling for a windy Sunday afternoon game.

Black Hole Son (1-0) @ Hahn's Hitters (0-1)

• Another game that calls for long travel (2,174 miles) will see Black Hole Son facing off against the other 2022 expansion franchise in Hahn's Hitters. An early morning Eastern Daylight Time game in Miami where thunderstorms and rain showers are likely.

• Black Hole Son dominated the Week 1 win, with Saquan Barkley looking like he is finally healthy.

• This is Black Hole Son's first 1-0 start since the 2020 season where they won four straight to start the EFL Season.

• Hahn's Hitters had a controversial finish to their Week 1 loss. A lot of chatter about the lack of consistent officiating in South Beach. Hahn's Hitters & Rice-A-Roni will face off against two of the original eight in Week 2. New versus old, who wins?

Evolution (1-0) @ Black Mambas (0-1) - (Sunday Night Football)

• The last lengthy game that asks for long travel will showcase Evolution traveling to Black Mambas, Miami, to San Francisco (1,220 miles) for the Sunday Night Football game.

• Evolution leads the all-time series at 7-1-0.

• Black Mambas are 2-0 all-time against Evolution in the Postseason.

• Evolution defeated Black Mambas in Week 7 of the 2020 season, the last time they met.

Deep In A Hole:

Balls Deep (0-1) @ Hyrule Empire (1-0)

• Balls Deep once again has found itself riddled with injuries. The loss of Elijah Mitchell for a substantial time is a big blow. The nagging injury George Kittle is dealing with put this team against the eight ball before kickoff & several other injuries, along with the Watson suspension, is par for the course for Balls Deep.

• Hyrule Empire took it to the defending divisional champions Black Mambas in Week 1 & looked like a real threat. Hyrule Empire has a chance to go up 2-0 in the division & the league.

• Hyrule Empire leads the all-time series against Balls Deep with a 3-2-1 record.

• Last season these teams split, with Hyrule Empire winning in Week 5 & Balls Deep winning in Week 11.

Northern-Midwest Dominance:

Crocs (1-0) @ VanillaGorillas (1-0) - Divisional Game

• Crocs captured their first win over The Canadian Cripplers last Week & now have the same opportunity in Week 2 against divisional opponent VanillaGorillas.

• VanillaGorillas dominated Balls Deep showcasing their dominance on the defensive side of the ball.

• VanillaGorillas leads the all-time series against Crocs 1-0-0, which came in Week 7 last year.

• Both teams finished in the bottom five last season but looked like contenders in Week 1.

LilShupeScoresBIGPoints (1-0) @ Straight Edge Society (1-0) - Divisional Game - Monday Night Football

• LilShupeScoresBIGPoints scored the most points in Week 1, showcasing their talents as one of the teams year-in-&-year-out that could contend for a Super Bowl.

• Straight Edge Society put Rainelo Hawks celebration to an end quickly, not looking back with an early lead & getting their revenge from last year's Postseason loss.

• Both teams enter Week 2, showcasing a ton of talent. Tom Brady versus Joe Burrow, can we ask for anything more!?

• At 3-3-0, the all-time record between these two falls to an even .500 record. They did not play each other last season but will face off against each other this Week and again in Week 9.

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[jrsechelon]

September Issue - EFL 2022

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