March of the Highlanders: A TCY/FOF2K4 Dynasty

[Grid Iron]

The Highlanders: the nickname of my high school alma mater, which I attended from 1983 until 1987. I always thought the name was cool, derived from the word used to describe the natives of the Highlands of Scotland.

Located in La Mesa, California, a suburb of San Diego, Helix High School claims former NBA star Bill Walton as its most famous alum. More recently, however, the school is responsible for two players who were nominated for the Heisman trophy in 2004: Utah quarterback Alex Smith and USC running back Reggie Bush. Both players helped lead the “Fighting Scotties” to county football championships in 2000 and 2001.

Using my connection to Helix as inspiration, I am now beginning my second TCY-FOF2K4 Dynasty based on my high school.

In my first Helix High School dynasty, I followed the (very) brief career of Helix running back Kevin Pritchard. Unfortunately, after a promising freshman year in 2005 at Fresno State, Kevin was out of football by 2009 due to academic and injury problems. While I tried to revive the dynasty by simming several seasons ahead, Helix's academic and athletic preparation rankings kept producing prospects that would never attend college or quickly fade away.

With this dynasty, I will follow every Helix football player from their senior year of high school through college and (with any luck) the NFL. Helix has an "82" athletic preparation score and a "93" academic preparation score in this new career, so I expect the players to have much better chance of making it at the next level, unlike their predecessor Kevin.

This dynasty is just for fun, so I don’t intend on telling a complicated story of intrigue. I’m saving that for another dynasty. So, sit back and relax and we’ll see how Helix does over the next few decades.

[Grid Iron]

2004 Season Review

Helix High School had two potential college football players in 2004. Unfortunately, neither of them earned a scholarship.

WR Bubba Foreman, Helix High School

With a 23/100 overall impression and good size (6-0, 185), it looked like unranked Bubba Foreman might actually have a chance of playing for his favorite team, the San Diego State Aztecs. Unfortunately, he never even received a call from any Division I-A school. Fortunately, his 4.00 GPA and 1462 SAT score did get him a scholarship in Nuclear Engineering at Harvard University. Here are Bubba's final 2004 stats:

G    Rec    Yds    Avg     TD
9    48     822    17.1     4

G Eddie Ford, Helix High School

I was suprised Eddie Ford didn't at least get a scholarship to a Solecismic Eight school. He had decent size (6-4, 280) and his 24/100 overall impression made him the 19th best guard prospect in the state. Like his teammate Bubba Foreman, however, Eddie never even got a call. He will be attending USC next season, but as a denistry student, not a football player.

Next Up: 2006!

[Grid Iron]

2006 Season Review

After having no college prospects in 2005, the Highlanders bounced back in 2006 with two noteworthy players. Unfortunately, neither received a scholarship or phone call.

DT Anthony Klinger, Helix High School

A 9/100 overall rating made it virtually impossible for Anthony Klinger to get a phone call, let alone a scholarship. The unranked defensive tackle was small for his position (6'1", 262 pounds), which certainly contributed to his failure to catch on with a team. Nonetheless, Anthony received a computer science scholarship from Cal Tech after earning a 4.00 GPA and a 1513 SAT score. Here are Anthony's final stats for 2006:

G    Tackles    Sacks    Int
9         21      2.5      0

DE Desmond Arredondo, Helix High School

With a 3/100 overall rating, Desmond Arredondo had an even worse chance of making a college team. Although he had good size (6'4", 254 pounds) and speed, he was terrible against the run. Fortunately, Desmond plays a mean saxaphone, and is now studying music at the Julliard School. Here are Desmond's final stats for 2006:

G    Tackles    Sacks    Int
9         27      3.0      0

Next Up: 2007!

[Grid Iron]

2007 Season Review

The Highlanders' drought of football scholarships extended to five years in 2007. The last scholarship for a Helix player was Reggie Bush (USC) in 2002. Nonetheless, there is light at the end of the tunnel in 2011!

FB Shane Money, Helix High School

Helix fullback Shane Money should have received a scholarship just on his name alone. Unfortunately, it wasn't enough to convince any Division 1-A schools to give him a chance. Despite a 21/100 overall rating, a #13 ranking at his position in California, and good size (6-1, 225), Shane didn't even get a call. He is now studying metallurgy at Brown University, made possible with his 3.82 GPA. Here are Shane's final stats for 2007:

G   Ru   Yds   Avg   TD   Rec   Yds    Avg   TD
9   38   108   2.84   1    13    82    6.30   3

Next Up: 2011!

[Balldog]

These guys need to study less and practice more

[Grid Iron]

2011 Season Review

Nine years after Reggie Bush decided to play for USC, a Helix Highlander finally earned a football scholarship. Hopefully, this will be the first of many more to come.

OLB Otis Mowery, Helix High School

Ranked 162 in the nation and 9th among linebackers, Otis Mowery was sure to earn a football scholarship. His best game came early in the recruiting season as he racked up 8 tackles, 2 sacks and 4 interceptions in a 35-7 Highlanders win over Granite Hills. After receiving several calls and offers, Mowery narrowed his choices to Stanford, Cal, UCLA and Colorado, which was consistent with his preference for academics and staying close to home.

Ultimately, the choice was easy, deciding on Stanford Leland University. Four of Stanford’s outside linebackers are currently in their final year of eligibility. Stanford is ranked 99 in nuclear engineering, and is on the rise athletically. Stanford would eventually beat Colorado 37-34 in the Gator Bowl to finish the 2011 season ranked #13 overall with a 10-2 record. The team’s only conference loss came to #1 USC. In addition, the team has a 78 athletic prestige rating. Throw in the fact that Stanford is only a 1.5 hour plane ride from San Diego, and all the pieces fell into place.

Here are Mowery’s vital stats:

Height:      6-1
Weight:      209
Born:        1993
Major:       Nuclear Engineering
GPA:         3.57
SAT:         1518
Nat'l Rank:  162 (9) 
State Rank:  25 (2) 
All State:   Yes
All Country: No
Overall:     76 out of 100
Strength:    Intercepting Passess
Weakness:    Zone Defense
Priorities:  Academics
             Distance
Attitude:    Decent

G     Tac    Sack    Int    Rec    Yds   TD
9     88     12.5      6      9    100    1

Up Next: 2012!

[Grid Iron]

Originally Posted by Balldog

These guys need to study less and practice more

I suspect Otis will be the smartest guy on the team.

[Grid Iron]

2012 Season Review

Although the Highlanders had no college prospects in 2012, former Helix linebacker Otis Mowery played his first season with Stanford University.

OLB Otis Mowery, Stanford University

Although Otis played very little in 2012, he has, by far, the highest future estimate of all outside linebackers at Stanford with a 23/83 rating. He played in all 12 games this season as the third-string outside linebacker, helping Stanford to a 9-3 (7-1) record, a #24 ranking, and a second-place Pac-10 finish behind UCLA. On the year, Otis recorded 2 tackles and one forced fumble. His limited playing time allowed him to focus on his studies, where he attained a 4.00 GPA, which included courses in computer science and nuclear engineering. For his hard work, Otis was named Pac-10 All-Academic Outside Linebacker.

Here are Mowery’s career stats:

Team      Year    G   Tac   Sack  Int  Fcrd  Stokes
Helix     2011    9    88   12.5    6     -       -
Stanford  2012   12     2    0.0    0     1       0

Up Next: 2013!

[Grid Iron]

2013 Season Review

The Highlanders are on a roll. Two years after outside linebacker Otis Mowery received a scholarship from Stanford, the Highlanders have one of the top quarterback prospects in the nation.

OLB Otis Mowery, Stanford University

Otis Mowery began his second season as a backup, but moved immediately into the starting job in week 6 after Roger Browning went down with a season-ending torn knee ligament. Otis performed admirably, helping Stanford (10-2, 7-1) win the Pac-10 and finish the year with a #8 ranking. In Stanford’s 34-24 Fiesta Bowl loss to North Carolina State, Mowery had 8 tackles (7 solo) and a sack. He finished the season with 2 stokes.

Otis’ GPA dropped slightly in 2013 to 3.80, as he got a B+ in computer science and a B- in French. Nonetheless, he was named to the Pac-10 All-Academic Team for the second year in a row. Otis also met his first college girlfriend this year, Sally.

Here are Mowery’s career stats:

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int Fcrd
Helix     2011   9  9   88      12.5   6    -
Stanford  2012  12  0    2    0  0.0   0    1
Stanford  2013  12  6   27   11  2.5   0    0

QB Leon Goldwater, Helix High School

Highlander quarterback Leon Goldwater took the country by storm with his combination of his passing ability and game-breaking speed. His overall rating of 94 out of 100 made the Helix senior the #8 football prospect in the nation, and #4 among quarterbacks. On the year, he threw for just 1697 yards and 8 touchdowns, but also ran for 899 yards and 8 scores in leading Helix to a Grossmont League title. He was eventually named All-Country and All-State.

Being so highly regarded, Leon had his choice of some of the top programs in the nation. He eventually narrowed his options to UCLA, USC and Texas. Ultimately, USC proved to be the best combination of academic prestige in his major of dentistry, and distance to his home. The Trojans’ 90 athletic prestige rating helped significantly, too. Although he will likely redshirt his freshman year, Leon's choice to attend USC may set up an interesting Pac-10 matchup in a couple years with fellow Helix alum Otis Mowery.

Here are Leon’s vital stats:

Height:      6-2
Weight:      26
Born:        1995
Major:       Dentistry
GPA:         3.64
SAT:         1384
Nat'l Rank:  8 (4) 
State Rank:  2 (1) 
All State:   Yes
All Country: Yes
Overall:     94 out of 100
Strength:    Touch Passing
Weakness:    Timing Receivers
Priorities:  Academics
             Distance
Attitude:    Very Good

Team   G  GS  Att  Comp Perc   Yds  TD  Int  Ru   Yds  TD
Helix  9   9  171  103  60.2  1697   8    3  142  899   8

Next Up: 2014!

[Grid Iron]

2014 Season Review

For the first time in a decade, two Helix Highlanders played football at two Division I-A schools in the same season. Unfortunately, Helix did not have any quality college prospects this year.

OLB Otis Mowery, Stanford University

2014 was a solid year for Otis Mowery, as he started all 12 games and was named Pac-10 All-Academic Team for the third year in a row. The Cardinal (9-3, 6-2) finished the year ranked #19 in the country and second in the Pac-10 behind #6 UCLA (11-1, 8-0). Unfortunately, an injury limited Otis to only 28 plays in Stanford’s 42-14 Gator Bowl victory over Texas (9-4) and he finished the game with just a single tackle. He earned 1 stoke on the season, giving him a total of 3 in his college career.

Here are Mowery’s career stats:

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack TFL Int  FF  RF
Helix     2011   9  9   88    - 12.5   -   6   -   -
Stanford  2012  12  0    2    0  0.0   0   0   1   0
Stanford  2013  12  6   27   11  2.5   8   0   0   2
Stanford  2014  12 12   32   13  0.5   4   0   1   1

QB Leon Goldwater, USC

With no girlfriend and no playing time, it’s not wonder USC quarterback Leon Goldwater felt lousy all season. His 1 stoke was the lone bright spot to this football season. Nonetheless, Leon did well in school, earning a 3.20 GPA for the year. The Trojans (8-4, 5-3) didn't perform particularly well this season, finishing third in the Pac-10 and #20 in the nation. The team did post a 41-34 victory over Miami in the Liberty Bowl. Leon did not play.

Here are Leon’s career stats:

Team   Year  G GS Att Com    %  Yds TD Int  Ru Yds TD
Helix  2013  9  9 171 103 60.2 1697  8   3 142 899  8
USC    2014  4  0  12   6 50.0   85  0   1   5  -9  0

Next Up: 2015!

[Grid Iron]

2015 Season Review

The Highlanders added yet another top prospect to the college ranks in 2015 as Helix High alum Otis Mowery wrapped up his final season before entering the NFL draft.

OLB Otis Mowery, Stanford University

Otis Mowery had a great senior season at Stanford. He started all 12 games and finished with 43 tackles (10 for a loss), 19 assists, one sack and one interception. Not only was he named to the Pac-10 All-Academic Team for the fourth year in a row, he earned Pac-10 Second Team honors. He earned 7 stokes on the season, giving him a total of 10 for his college career.

The Cardinal (11-1, 8-0) earned a berth in the Fiesta Bowl National Championship Game after winning the Pac-10, but lost 38-33 to Notre Dame. Unfortunately, Otis didn’t have much of an impact, recording a single tackle.

Here are Mowery’s career stats:

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack TFL Int  FF  FR
Helix     2011   9  9   88    - 12.5   -   6   -   -
Stanford  2012  12  0    2    0  0.0   0   0   1   0
Stanford  2013  12  6   27   11  2.5   8   0   0   2
Stanford  2014  12 12   32   13  0.5   4   0   1   1
Stanford  2015  12 12   43   19  1.0  10   1   0   0

QB Leon Goldwater, USC

Leon Goldwater finally got his chance to play when USC’s starting quarterback went down with an injury. Goldwater started three games, but his best was in Week 13, when he rallied USC to a 26-23 victory over UCLA, throwing the winning touchdown with :38 on the clock. On that final drive, Leon was 9-for-10 for 84 yards and a score. On the year, Leon earned 9 stokes, giving him a total of 12 for his career.

USC (7-5, 4-4) finished the season fifth in the Pac-10, but did earn a post-season invitation, beating Vanderbilt 28-23 in the Insight.com Bowl. Leon did not see any action in the game.

Here are Leon’s career stats:

Team   Year  G GS Att Com    %  Yds TD Int  Ru Yds TD
Helix  2013  9  9 171 103 60.2 1697  8   3 142 899  8
USC    2014  4  0  12   6 50.0   85  0   1   5 - 9  0
USC    2015  7  3 146  82 56.1 1058  7   9  18 -15  0

TE Randal Leatherman, Helix High School

The nation’s second-ranked tight end prospect, Randal Leatherman has both the name and gift for playing football. Not only is he a solid run blocker, he is a legitimate playmaker, recording 685 yards and 8 touchdowns on just 37 catches. After receiving several calls and offers, Leatherman narrowed his choices to Stanford and Michigan.

Randal ultimately chose Stanford University. Stanford was rated 97 in his major and 87 in athletic prestige. Furthermore, Helix alum Otis Mowery, Stanford’s starting outside linebacker, lobbied hard to get Leatherman to join the Cardinal. That wasn’t too hard, given that Stanford (11-1, 8-0) won the Pac-10, played for the national title, and finished the year ranked #2 in the nation (Stanford lost 38-33 to #1 Notre Dame in the Fiesta Bowl).

Here are Randal’s vital stats:

Height:      6-2
Weight:      223
Born:        1997
Major:       Metallurgy
GPA:         3.74
SAT:         1399
Nat'l Rank:  76 (2) 
State Rank:  10 (1) 
All State:   No
All Country: No
Overall:     65 out of 100
Strength:    Third-down receiving
Weakness:    Catching in traffic
Priorities:  Team Prestige
             Academics
Attitude:    Pretty Good

Team  Year G GS Rec  Yds   Avg  TD KRB KRO BPct SkA
Helix 2015 9  9  37  685  18.5   8   -   -    -   -

Next Up: 2016 and the NFL Draft!

[Grid Iron]

2016 Season Review

2016 was a big year for Helix, as Otis Mowery became the first Highlander selected in the NFL Draft since Reggie Bush in 2006.

SLB Otis Mowery, Tennessee Titans

Although Otis Mowery wasn’t the most physically gifted player in the 2016 NFL draft, he still has a chance to be a solid starter in the league. Before the draft, he was the #10 outside linebacker with a current/potential rating of 23/53—good enough for the Tennessee Titans to take him with the 6th pick of the fourth round. He joined the team immediately after signing a four-year, $3.73 million contract.

Mowery’s high volatility rating (100) was a concern before training camp, but his future potential suffered only a minimal drop, from 53 to 49. Although he didn’t win a starting job, Otis will be the backup strong-side linebacker. On the year, he started 4 games in place of injured Cory Galloway and recorded 34 tackles (22 solo).

The Titans finished the season with a 9-7 record, but missed the playoffs.

Here are Mowery’s updated vitals and career stats:

Height:       6-1
Weight:       238
Born:         1993
Loyalty:      Very Low (13)
Wants Winner: Average (56)
Leadership:   Low (30)
Intelligence: Very High (100)
Persnality:   Very Strong (89)
Home Town:    La Mesa, CA
College:      Stanford
League Draft: 4th Round, 2016, Pick 6
Drafted By:   Tennessee Titans
Volatility:   Very High (100)

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix     2011   9  9   88    - 12.5   6   -   -   -
Stanford  2012  12  0    2    0  0.0   0   0   1   0
Stanford  2013  12  6   27   11  2.5   0   0   0   2
Stanford  2014  12 12   32   13  0.5   0   0   1   1
Stanford  2015  12 12   43   19  1.0   1   0   0   0
Tennessee 2016  14  4   22   12  0.0   0   0   0   0

QB Leon Goldwater, USC

2016 was a frustrating year for Leon Goldwater, as he was passed over in favor of senior Carlton Gomes for the starting job. Ironically, the job would have been Leon’s had Carlton not missed the last two seasons due to his academic ineligibility. Nonetheless, Carlton will be graduating this year, so Leon should be the opening day starter in 2017.

Leon struggled at times, but definitely showed flashes of brilliance. On the season, he earned 15 stokes as well as his second career “late heroics” award. In Week 8 at Washington, Leon threw a 79-yard touchdown pass with 8:25 left in the fourth quarter to give USC the lead and a 27-17 victory. On the day, he was 25-of-39 for 314 yards, 2 TD and 1 INT.
Despite limited success for Leon, it was a miserable season for USC (6-5, 4-4), as the team finished sixth in the Pac-10 and did not receive a bowl invitation.

Here are Leon’s career stats:

Team   Year  G GS Att Com    %  Yds TD Int  Ru Yds TD
Helix  2013  9  9 171 103 60.2 1697  8   3 142 899  8
USC    2014  4  0  12   6 50.0   85  0   1   5 - 9  0
USC    2015  7  3 146  82 56.1 1058  7   9  18 -15  0
USC    2016  9  6 250 131 52.4 1497  9  11  55 –81  0

TE Randal Leatherman, Stanford

Randal Leatherman watched most of the season from the sidelines as the second-string tight end. On the season, he had three catches for 45 yards and a fumble. He did not earn any stokes. He finished his freshman year with a respectable 3.18 GPA.

The Cardinal (9-3, 6-2) had a good year, finishing second in the Pac-10 behind UCLA (9-3, 7-1). Randal did not play in Stanford’s 28-21 loss to Colorado (11-2) in the Gator Bowl.

Here are Randal’s career stats:

Team     Year  G GS Rec  Yds   Avg  TD KRB KRO BPct SkA
Helix    2015  9  9  37  685  18.5   8   -   -    -   -
Stanford 2016 12  1   3   45  15.0   0   0   0    0   0

Next Up: 2017!

[3ric]

Nice read so far - it's getting more interesting with one of the guys making it to the NFL.

[Grid Iron]

Originally Posted by 3ric

Nice read so far - it's getting more interesting with one of the guys making it to the NFL.

Thanks, 3ric!

I'm enjoying it, but I'm also concerned the dynasty could get too unwieldly if a lot more Helix players get scholarships over the next few years. I'd like to keep it around four or five players at a time. We'll see how it goes.

The 2017 Season Review is coming up tomorrow!

[MrBug708]

Karl Dorrell also went to Helix High

[Grid Iron]

Originally Posted by MrBug708

Karl Dorrell also went to Helix High

Cool! Thanks for the tip. I just Googled him. Very interesting. I was a freshman at Helix the year after he graduated.

Dennis Hopper also graduated from Helix. Class of 1954. He was voted "Most Likely to Succeed."

[Grid Iron]

2017 Season Review

2017 was a mixed bag for the Highlanders, as USC QB Leon Goldwater won the starting job for his final season, but Tennessee SLB Otis Mowery was reduced to third-string.

SLB Otis Mowery, Tennessee Titans

Otis Mowery suspected 2017 wasn’t going to be a good year for him when the Titans signed free agent SLB Artie Fassnacht who started 16 games for the Seahawks last season. He was right. Fassnacht was named the starter, Otis was relegated to third-string, and had a total of 11 tackles (9 solo) on the season. The move was a tough one to swallow, given that Otis has a higher potential than Fassnacht (44 vs. 41), but a lower current rating (26 vs. 36).

The Titans finished the season with a 5-11 record, which was the worst record in the AFC.

Here are Mowery’s career stats:

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix     2011   9  9   88    - 12.5   6   -   -   -
Stanford  2012  12  0    2    0  0.0   0   0   1   0
Stanford  2013  12  6   27   11  2.5   0   0   0   2
Stanford  2014  12 12   32   13  0.5   0   0   1   1
Stanford  2015  12 12   43   19  1.0   1   0   0   0
Tennessee 2016  14  4   22   12  0.0   0   0   0   0
Tennessee 2017   5  0    9    2  0.0   0   0   1   0

QB Leon Goldwater, USC

Leon Goldwater made the most of his final year of eligibility, starting every game and throwing for 3285 yards and 35 touchdowns. Unfortunately, Leon’s 24 interceptions contributed significantly to the Trojans’ (5-6, 3-5) 6th-place finish in the Pac-10.

Leon had two significant games in his senior year. His biggest game statistically was a 59-42 loss at home in Week 12 against #8 Stanford. In the game, Leon was 29-of-46 for 493 yards, 6 TD and 2 INTs. His biggest victory was in Week 11 at home against Arizona. In the 56-0 win, Leon was 14-of-19 for 207 yards, 5 TD and 0 INT.

He ended his college career with 69 stokes and four “late game heroics.” With a little luck, he could be a first-round draft pick next season.

Here are Leon’s career stats:

Team   Year  G GS Att Com    %  Yds TD Int  Ru Yds TD
Helix  2013  9  9 171 103 60.2 1697  8   3 142 899  8
USC    2014  4  0  12   6 50.0   85  0   1   5 - 9  0
USC    2015  7  3 146  82 56.1 1058  7   9  18 -15  0
USC    2016  9  6 250 131 52.4 1497  9  11  55 –81  0
USC    2017 11 11 404 230 56.9 3285 35  24  73 –79  0

TE Randal Leatherman, Stanford

Randal Leatherman continued to move his way up the depth chart in 2017, catching his first two touchdown passes. He also had two key run blocks and earned one stoke on the year, helping (in a very small way) the Cardinal (11-1, 7-1) win the Pac-10 and finish the year with a #8 ranking. He did not play in Stanford’s 40-21 Fiesta Bowl victory over Texas A&M.

Here are Randal’s career stats:

Team     Year  G GS Rec  Yds   Avg  TD KRB KRO BPct SkA
Helix    2015  9  9  37  685  18.5   8   -   -    -   -
Stanford 2016 12  1   3   45  15.0   0   0   0    0   0
Stanford 2017 12  2   6  110  18.3   2   2   5 40.0   0

Next Up: 2018 and the NFL Draft!

[StanGunner]

You definitely are adaptable in your dynasties. There is quite a difference in the narrative and flow. I enjoy all your threads. I agree with you that keeping track of more than 4 or 5 guys could get cumbersome. Great job Grid!

[Grid Iron]

Originally Posted by StanGunner

You definitely are adaptable in your dynasties. There is quite a difference in the narrative and flow. I enjoy all your threads. I agree with you that keeping track of more than 4 or 5 guys could get cumbersome. Great job Grid!

Thanks, glad you enjoy it!

It's different than my others, but I like the change of pace. The hard part about writing an involved story is that it takes so much work. This is much better, given my current work responsibilities right now.

[3ric]

Looking forward to see where Goldwater ends up in the draft...

[nfg22]

Hopefully Mowery can become a solid backup or a partime starter for his career.

[Grid Iron]

2018 Season Review

2018 was a great year for the Highlanders as USC QB Leon Goldwater was selected in the NFL Draft and Helix DE Roman “Flywheel” Flylum was among the top recruits in the nation.

SLB Otis Mowery, Denver Broncos

2018 was another bad year for Otis Mowery. Otis signed a one-year $710K contract with the Broncos after being cut by the Titans. However, he never got any significant playing time after losing the starting job battle to SLB Lewis Alston, whose skills were comparable to Otis.

The Broncos (11-5) clinched a wild card berth and advanced to the AFC Championship, but lost 21-10 to New England. In three playoff games, Otis played only on special teams and recorded just a single tackle. He will be a restricted free agent next year, so there may be hope in sight for poor Otis.

Here are Mowery’s career stats:

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix     2011   9  9   88    - 12.5   6   -   -   -
Stanford  2012  12  0    2    0  0.0   0   0   1   0
Stanford  2013  12  6   27   11  2.5   0   0   0   2
Stanford  2014  12 12   32   13  0.5   0   0   1   1
Stanford  2015  12 12   43   19  1.0   1   0   0   0
Tennessee 2016  14  4   22   12  0.0   0   0   0   0
Tennessee 2017   5  0    9    2  0.0   0   0   1   0
Denver    2018  16  0    6    3  0.0   0   0   0   0

Author’s Note: I’m really pulling for Otis to win the starting job or get a contract with another team. He definitely has the potential to be a solid backup.

QB Leon Goldwater, New York Giants

Projected to be a first-round pick before the start of the season, Leon Goldwater had a poor showing at the combine and dropped to the second round of the draft, where the New York Giants selected him with the 52nd overall pick. As it turns out, the Giants are the perfect match for Leon, as he can learn the offense behind 13-year veteran QB Dusty Moore, and take over when he retires. The 6th quarterback selected in the draft, Leon signed a three-year, $5.06 million contract. His 23/61 rating before the draft dropped only to 26/58 after training camp.

The Giants went 9-7 on the season and made the playoffs as a wild card but lost 23-17 to Green Bay in the first round. Leon did not play.

Author’s Note: I’m very excited about Leon going to the Giants. Dusty Moore is in the twilight of his career, so Goldwater will hopefully take the reins in two or three years.

Here are Leon’s updated vitals and career stats:

Height:       6-2
Weight:       229
Born:         1995
QB Style:     Long Passes
Loyalty:      Very High (84)
Wants Winner: Very Weak (8)
Leadership:   Very Low (7)
Intelligence: Very High (83)
Personality:  Very Strong (97)
Home Town:    La Mesa, CA
College:      USC
League Draft: 2nd Round, 2018, Pick 20
Drafted By:   New York Giants
Volatility:   Low (21)

Team      Year  G GS Att Com    %  Yds TD Int  Ru Yds TD
Helix     2013  9  9 171 103 60.2 1697  8   3 142 899  8
USC       2014  4  0  12   6 50.0   85  0   1   5 - 9  0
USC       2015  7  3 146  82 56.1 1058  7   9  18 -15  0
USC       2016  9  6 250 131 52.4 1497  9  11  55 –81  0
USC       2017 11 11 404 230 56.9 3285 35  24  73 –79  0
NY Giants 2018 16  0   0   0  0.0    0  0   0   0   0  0

TE Randal Leatherman, Stanford

Randal Leatherman played very little in 2018, but expects to be the starter next season now that senior TE Jamal Rodgers is leaving for the NFL.

For the second straight year, Stanford (11-1, 7-1) won the Pac-10 and played in a BCS Bowl. Unfortunately, the Cardinal were crushed 42-21 by #9 Mississippi in the Orange Bowl, and finished the year ranked #10. Randal did not play in the game.

Here are Randal’s career stats:

Team     Year  G GS Rec  Yds   Avg  TD KRB KRO BPct SkA
Helix    2015  9  9  37  685  18.5   8   -   -    -   -
Stanford 2016 12  1   3   45  15.0   0   0   0    0   0
Stanford 2017 12  2   6  110  18.3   2   2   5 40.0   0
Stanford 2018 12  0   1   11  11.0   0   1   5 20.0   0

DE Roman “Flywheel” Flylum, Helix High School

Highlander Roman Flylum got several scholarship offers after being named the 20th defensive end prospect in the nation and the 6th best in California. He is so fast and strong, he earned the nickname “Flywheel” from his teammates in leading the Helix defense to a shut out, and victory, over Oceanside High School in the County Championship.

Roman immediately drew the attention of some top programs, including Notre Dame, South Carolina, Georgia, Miami of Ohio, and Texas Christian. Ultimately, TCU offered Roman the best combination of athletic and academic prestige. Roman and TCU sophomore DE Lorenzo Bovee could eventually be the best pair of defensive ends in college football over the next few seasons.

Here are Roman’s vital stats:

Height:      6-3
Weight:      235
Born:        2000
Major:       Industrial Engineering
GPA:         3.55
SAT:         1279
Nat'l Rank:  152 (20) 
State Rank:  24 (6) 
All State:   No
All Country: No
Overall:     65 out of 100
Strength:    Defending the Run
Weakness:    Rushing the Passer
Priorities:  Team Prestige
             Academics
Attitude:    Pretty Good

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix     2018   9  9   61    -  5.5   2   -   -   -

Next Up: 2019!

[Chas in Cinti]

Really enjoying your dynasty!

Great idea..

Regards,
Chas

[Grid Iron]

Originally Posted by Chas in Cinti

Really enjoying your dynasty!

Great idea..

Regards,
Chas

Thanks! Glad you enjoy it.

Now, for the big news. . .

[Grid Iron]

Cardinal leave Irish red-faced!

Stanford clinches National Championship with 42-23 Rose Bowl victory

January 1, 2020

Pasadena, CA (AP) – After a nearly 100-year wait, Stanford (12-0, 8-0) won its second college football National Championship today at the Rose Bowl in a 42-23 victory over Notre Dame. The last time the Cardinal were the best in the country was in 1926, when Knute Rockne was coaching the Fighting Irish.

Not only did the victory avenge a 38-33 loss to Notre Dame in the 2015 National Championship game, it was a fantastic opportunity for Pac-10 First-Team TE Randal Leatherman to show off his skills before the upcoming NFL draft. Leatherman started the game by showing off his great blocking ability. After Notre Dame took a 7-0 lead early in the game, Leatherman made a key block that allowed RB Bennie McNeil to break free for a 32-yard run, setting up the game-tying touchdown. Randal then displayed his talent as a receiver, making three catches for 36 yards, including a 12-yard score midway through the third quarter to put the Stanford up 28-14.

[Grid Iron]

2019 Season Review

2019 was huge for Helix as a former Highlander won a College Football National Championship for the first time since Reggie Bush did it with USC in 2004.

SLB Otis Mowery, Denver Broncos

2019 started off great for Otis Mowery, as Denver’s starting SLB Lewis Alston was released, paving the way for the Highlander to take over the starting job. Otis’ dream of starting in the NFL had almost arrived.

Unfortunately, Otis would never get the chance. The Broncos signed free agent SLB Darrell McKenzie, and then selected rookie OLB Neal Godfrey with their first pick in the draft. With two new outside linebackers, the Broncos didn’t even tender Otis a contract. McKenzine would eventually win the starting job and the Broncos (7-9) would go on to finish third in the AFC West.

Otis waited all year but he never got an offer to play for another NFL team. At the end of the 2019 season, Otis Mowery began considering the real possibility that he might never play football again . . .

Here are Mowery’s career stats:

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix     2011   9  9   88    - 12.5   6   -   -   -
Stanford  2012  12  0    2    0  0.0   0   0   1   0
Stanford  2013  12  6   27   11  2.5   0   0   0   2
Stanford  2014  12 12   32   13  0.5   0   0   1   1
Stanford  2015  12 12   43   19  1.0   1   0   0   0
Tennessee 2016  14  4   22   12  0.0   0   0   0   0
Tennessee 2017   5  0    9    2  0.0   0   0   1   0
Denver    2018  16  0    6    3  0.0   0   0   0   0
None      2019               Did Not Play

Author’s Note: It’s too bad he never signed on with another team. Hopefully, he'll get a chance to revive his career next season.

QB Leon Goldwater, New York Giants

In 2019, Leon Goldwater continued to learn under the tutelage of 14-year veteran QB Dusty Moore for the day that he would eventually take over the New York Giants offense. On the year, Leon was 0-2 as a starter. Nonetheless, he was solid in the first start of his career, a 30-24 loss to Buffalo in Week 16. In that game, Leon completed 16-of-27 for 220 yards, 2 TD and 1 INT.

The Giants went 10-6 on the season and made the playoffs as a wild card but lost 2-20 at Chicago in the first round. Leon did not play.

Here are Leon’s career stats:

Team      Year  G GS Att Com    %  Yds TD Int  Ru Yds TD
Helix     2013  9  9 171 103 60.2 1697  8   3 142 899  8
USC       2014  4  0  12   6 50.0   85  0   1   5 - 9  0
USC       2015  7  3 146  82 56.1 1058  7   9  18 -15  0
USC       2016  9  6 250 131 52.4 1497  9  11  55 –81  0
USC       2017 11 11 404 230 56.9 3285 35  24  73 –79  0
NY Giants 2018 16  0   0   0  0.0    0  0   0   0   0  0
NY Giants 2019 12  2 106  67 63.2  848  3   4   5  19

TE Randal Leatherman, Stanford

Randal Leatherman was one of the best tight ends in college football this year, showing a great ability to catch the ball, as well as run block. He finished his senior campaign being named to the Pac-10 First Team, as well as Pac-10 All-Academic Team. The honors and awards, however, paled in comparison to the satisfaction of winning a National Championship.

Next year, Randal is off to the NFL.

Here are Randal’s career stats:

Team     Year  G GS Rec  Yds   Avg  TD KRB KRO BPct SkA
Helix    2015  9  9  37  685  18.5   8   -   -    -   -
Stanford 2016 12  1   3   45  15.0   0   0   0    0   0
Stanford 2017 12  2   6  110  18.3   2   2   5 40.0   0
Stanford 2018 12  0   1   11  11.0   0   1   5 20.0   0
Stanford 2019 12 12  32  431  13.4   5  10  25 40.0   0

DE Roman “Flywheel” Flylum, TCU

Former Helix Highlander Roman Flylum was red shirted for his first year at TCU. So, he watched from the sidelines as Texas Christian (10-2, 8-0) won Conference USA for the fourth consecutive year and lost by a score of 19-14 to Texas in the Orange Bowl. TCU finished the year ranked #11 in the nation.


Here are Roman’s career stats:

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix     2018   9  9   61    -  5.5   2   -   -   -
TCU       2019         Did Not Play (Red-shirted)   

CB Kendrick Branch, Helix High School

Because athletic prestige was so important to him, Kendrick was initially worried when his only offers were from smaller schools such as Bakersfield, Thousand Oaks and Western Michigan. But after Branch recorded 6 tackles, a sack and returned two interceptions for touchdowns in Helix’s 28-14 victory over Monte Vista, the calls started rolling in. He literally traveled across the country to make his decision, starting at USC, then making his way to Western Michgan, Miami of Ohio, Connecticut and then South Carolina. After considerable thought, Kendrick chose the SEC Champion South Carolina Gamecocks (9-4). South Carolina should be a good fit, since five of the teams’ seven corners are graduating or have just one more year of eligibility.

Here are Kendrick’s vital stats:

Height:      5-7
Weight:      170
Born:        2001
Major:       German
GPA:         3.44
SAT:         1316
Nat'l Rank:  304 (26) 
State Rank:  31 (5) 
All State:   No
All Country: No
Overall:     61 out of 100
Strength:    Zone Defense
Weakness:    Punt Returning
Priorities:  Academics
             Team Prestige
Attitude:    Pretty Good

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix     2019   9  9   53    -  4.5   9   -   -   -

Next Up: 2020 and the NFL Draft!

[Grid Iron]

Since the Golden Scribes are coming up next week, the end of the 2019 season seems like a logical place to take a break in the March of the Highlanders dynasty.

So, look for me to pick it up again after the Golden Scribes. Of course, if I get some free time, I might do a season or two.

[tategter]

Branch got special consideration after a great game against Monte Vista? Who doesn't have a great game against MV? I went there for four years in the 80's and the football team was a joke.

Damn, I just realized that was 20 years ago. Pardon me while I go pluck some grey hairs.

[Grid Iron]

2020 Season Review

2020 was a another big year for former Helix football players, as one became a starting NFL quarterback and another became the first Highlander to play in a Super Bowl. In addition, another Highlander joined the ranks of the college gridiron.

SLB Otis Mowery, Free Agent

Otis Mowery’s career is on life support. He has gone two full years as a free agent, and has never received an offer. His future potential is 38, so there is still some hope that he can somehow get a backup job.

Here are Mowery’s career stats:

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix     2011   9  9   88    - 12.5   6   -   -   -
Stanford  2012  12  0    2    0  0.0   0   0   1   0
Stanford  2013  12  6   27   11  2.5   0   0   0   2
Stanford  2014  12 12   32   13  0.5   0   0   1   1
Stanford  2015  12 12   43   19  1.0   1   0   0   0
Tennessee 2016  14  4   22   12  0.0   0   0   0   0
Tennessee 2017   5  0    9    2  0.0   0   0   1   0
Denver    2018  16  0    6    3  0.0   0   0   0   0
None      2019            Did Not Play              
None      2019            Did Not Play             

QB Leon Goldwater, Oakland Raiders

Leon Goldwater was shocked, and elated, when he heard the news that the Giants traded him to the Raiders in exchange for Oakland’s top-flight tight end and a sixth-round pick in the 2001 draft. After the trade, Leon was handed the starting job and turned in a fantastic first season with Oakland, throwing for 3,419 yards, 25 TD and 17 INT.

Unfortunately, Oakland’s defense was one of the worst in the league, and the team finished with a 5-11 record. In four of the team’s losses, the Oakland defense allowed the go-ahead score with under :05 left on the clock.

Leon’s best game was in Week 15, when the Raiders defeated the San Diego Chargers 38-12. On the day, Goldwater finished 30-of-39 for 268 yards, 4 TD and 0 INT, winning Player of the Game honors.

Here are Leon’s career stats:

Team      Year  G GS Att Com    %  Yds TD Int  Ru Yds TD
Helix     2013  9  9 171 103 60.2 1697  8   3 142 899  8
USC       2014  4  0  12   6 50.0   85  0   1   5 - 9  0
USC       2015  7  3 146  82 56.1 1058  7   9  18 -15  0
USC       2016  9  6 250 131 52.4 1497  9  11  55 –81  0
USC       2017 11 11 404 230 56.9 3285 35  24  73 –79  0
NY Giants 2018 16  0   0   0  0.0    0  0   0   0   0  0
NY Giants 2019 12  2 106  67 63.2  848  3   4   5  19  0
Oakland   2020 16 16 479 292 60.9 3419 25  17  37 163  1

Author’s Note: It’s good to see Leon starting, so we can really see what he can do.

TE Randal Leatherman, Washington Redskins

With the 61st overall pick in the NFL Draft, the Washington Redskins selected TE Randal Leatherman. Randal showed tremendous maturity, playing in 14 regular season games, starting 7. Leatherman also played an important role in the Redskins’ playoff run to the Super Bowl.

The Redskins (10-6) clinched a wild card berth after finishing second in the NFC East. Then, against all odds, Washington posted road victories over Dallas, Atlanta and Minnesota to reach the Super Bowl.

In the championship game against the New York Jets, Leatherman caught a 35-yard pass in the second quarter that set up a 35-yard field goal, pulling Washington to within a point of New York at 7-6. Then, with just 1:49 left in the third quarter, Randal laid a key run block on 2nd-and-goal from the one, allowing RB Vinny Sims to score the go-ahead touchdown, giving the Redskins a 20-14 lead. Unfortunately, the Jets would rally late in the fourth quarter to pull out the 21-20 Super Bowl victory.

Here are Randal’s updated vitals and career stats:

Height:       6-2
Weight:       229
Born:         1995
Loyalty:      Very Low (0)
Wants Winner: Strong (60)
Leadership:   Very High (85)
Intelligence: Very High (80) 
Personality:  Strong (75)
Home Town:    La Mesa, CA
College:      Stanford
League Draft: 2nd Round, 2020, Pick 29
Drafted By:   Washington Redskins
Volatility:   Average (58)

Team       Year  G GS Rec  Yds   Avg  TD KRB KRO BPct SkA
Helix      2015  9  9  37  685  18.5   8   -   -    -   -
Stanford   2016 12  1   3   45  15.0   0   0   0    0   0
Stanford   2017 12  2   6  110  18.3   2   2   5 40.0   0
Stanford   2018 12  0   1   11  11.0   0   1   5 20.0   0
Stanford   2019 12 12  32  431  13.4   5  10  25 40.0   0
Washington 2020 14  7  37  183   8.3   4   3   9 33.3   0

DE Roman “Flywheel” Flylum, TCU

Former Helix Highlander Roman Flylum won the starting job in 2020 and played quite well, recording 2.5 sacks, 6 tackles for a loss, 5 hurries, and 2 blocked passes for #9 TCU (10-2). In TCU’s 41-38 loss to #4 Utah in the Orange Bowl, Roman had 5 tackles (3 solo), 2 tackles for a loss and one sack.

Here are Roman’s career stats:

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack TFL  Blk  Hur  Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix     2018   9  9   61    -  5.5   -    -    -    2   -   -   -
TCU       2019         Did Not Play (Red-shirted)   
TCU       2020  12 12   16    8  2.5   6    2    5    0   0   0   0

CB Kendrick Branch, South Carolina

Kendrick Branch was red-shirted for his first year at South Carolina. It was just as well, since South Carolina (6-6, 5-3) had a mediocre season that ended with a 24-17 loss in the Emerald Bowl to #21 Arkansas State (10-2).

Three of the Gamecocks’ five cornerbacks are graduating this year, which could give Kendrick a chance to earn a starting job next season. At a minimum, he should be the nickel back.

Here are Kendrick’s career stats:

Team        Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix       2019   9  9   53    -  4.5   9   -   -   -
S. Carolina 2020       Did Not Play (Red-shirted)  

ILB Freddie Walters, Helix High School

Helix touted the best inside linebacker in the state in Freddie Walters, who was ranked 287 in the nation. A tremendous athlete, Walters can chase ballcarriers from sideline to sideline and make big plays when he gets to the ball.

Walters received several offers from a wide range of schools, including USC, San Jose State, BYU, Iowa State and Sacramento State. Freddie ultimately chose San Jose State due to its excellent marketing curriculum and proximity to San Diego. Many believed Walters would select USC, but the Trojans’ athletic reputation has steadily diminished since the great teams at the turn of the century. In 2020, USC finished with a 5-6 record and hasn’t won the Pac-10 since 2011.

Here are Walters’ vital stats:

Height:      6-2
Weight:      227
Born:        2002
Major:       Marketing
GPA:         3.64
SAT:         1327
Nat'l Rank:  287 (12) 
State Rank:  41 (1) 
All State:   No
All Country: No
Overall:     54 out of 100
Strength:    Zone Defense
Weakness:    Intercepting Passes
Priorities:  Academics
             Distance
Attitude:    Very Good

Team      Year   G GS Tckl Asst Sack Int  TD  FF  FR
Helix     2019   9  9   86    -  2.0   3   -   -   -

Next Up: 2021