IHOF: Maassluis Merchantmen [Archive] - Front Office Football Central

MIJB#19

02-02-2004, 05:52 AM

First, I'm not sure wheter I will be updating regularly, but I'll try to do an update after the stages.

I won't give too much details on stages that are yet to come, since my rivals could read this, even knowing I'm the laughing stock of the league at the start.

Note that we are a little bit further in progress the this post suggests, some teams have made big roster changes, like Tucker Tigers, to become playoff contenders now.

Foreword
Well, I haven’t written a FOF dynasty in a long time and basically it all has to do with we not upgrading from FOF2 to a newer version. Well, with some French help, that has changed and the MIJB returns with a new dynasty. And this dynasty won’t be a normal dynasty, this story will tell about my first game in FOF2004 and it’s my first multi player experience as well.

Prologue
It was about three months ago, or maybe longer – or shorter, I can’t remember that well – I was asked by the International House of Football to become general manager – and basically owner as well – of one of the thirty-two teams to play in this new football league.
As the teams and owners were getting shape, it was my goal to find a location and team name for my team. Thinking over the success of my fantasy football team – the Maassluis Anglers – I decided not to pollute the good name and pick up a tourist like dictionary to find the proper nicknames.
Sparing the details of my brain cramps of finding a proper nickname, eventually the Maassluis Merchantmen rolled out of my head as a winner. For those interested, Maassluis is my hometown and the Merchantmen nickname is supposed to refer to the golden ages of the Netherlands, the time Dutch “pirates” explored the world by ships and colonized places like New York, Cape Town and Indonesia.
With the name in place and the division taking shape, the league was about to start and it was time for me to analyze the opposition division wide, conference wide and league wide.

My sidekicks
Well, I'll do not much detail on them yet, especially since I haven't had the option to hire them myself.
You'll have to believe me that my team has a head coach, offensive coordinator, defensive coordinator and a lead scout.

Divisional Alignment
The Merchantmen are placed in the European division of the Atlantic Ocean Conference (AFC). We face the French teams from Paris (the Musketeers) and Bordeaux (the Vineyard), respectively run by Darkiller and Alf, and a team located in the Swedish city Göteborg – the Gothenborg Giants – run by 3ric. Notice that these four teams are the only teams from oustide of the United States of America.
The other division in the AFC are the Northeast, the Southeast and Deep South. Obviously familiar faces run these teams, but to me the most fun can probably be found in facing the Orlando Knights, managed by Dutch.
In the other conference, the North American Conference (NFC), teams are divided into the Midwest, Mid-Atlantic, Atlantic Coast and West divisions. Personally, I’m looking forward to the year when my team meets the team in the Mid-Atlantic division, as all the owners there bring up various sentiments.
For your interest, the conference names where my suggetion and they seemed to have enough support to become the official names, go me!

League Draft Instructions
Without much of a discussion, almost unanimously the league owners voted to have a preference draft, meaning the lead scouts will meet some day and do the drafting for the initial 53-men rosters. Of course, these scouts will go there with instructions, and so will my lead scout.
I haven’t quite made up a plan to build up my team, yet I decided to instruct my scout to focus on player potential, primarily draft offensive linemen, focus players who do better in the running game and build the defense around linebackers and a decent secondary.

League Draft Result
After a huge blunder, I found out I sent my scout out with preferences being the opposite of what I want him to come home with. Oh well, some instructions did work out as planned: my defense is run defense, and the roster is young. What does amaze me is the low intelligence and high loyalty around the roster. Besides that, the receivers corpse has turned out to be amongst the top 5 in the league, but in about 7 positions we’re the league’s worst. Did I mention the high number of popular players?
Going through the roster, a few players jump out:
Justin McDavid, one of three rookie QBs, who might turn out to be a 2nd RB, he is the expected starter
Randy Harris, our RB, potentially a top dog if used properly, which he likely won’t
Vincent Lopez, FB, leader of the offense and amongst the best FB in the league
Frederic Vargas, WR, tied for the league’s fastest men, receiver’s leader and one of the top 20 WR league-wide
Charles Gomez, DT, our first round pick, the projected anchorman on our defense for the coming 6 seasons
Harold Wells, DE, potentially a top pass rusher, or maybe he’s an all round DE, only time will tell
Cody Cluff, LB, the guy behind the line, he might make a profit out of the DL and score 100 tackles a year
Percy Francis, S, our free safety and leader of the secondary, just another fan favorite who should boost the D

The more I look at the players, the better I manage to cope with the disastrous draft. With Harris and Lopez coming from behind our terrible offensive line, our chances are slim, yet our receivers might be good enough to get up field on passing plays, hoping McDavid isn’t sacked ten times a game.
The defensive front could be able to stop the run at times, though with our terrible secondary, receivers will run around us.
I’m looking forward to this opportunity to get this team started in this league. If I can keep the talented players around for the coming 5 seasons, we might have a shot at the playoffs in a year or 3 and who knows what?
Realistically, I spread the word around the league that my team will be serious contenders for the first pick in the 2005 draft, meaning perhaps two of my European friends in this division might have a shot at reaching the playoffs.
Other than this, I’m interested in the big question how the players of my team (and the opposition) will cope with trips of 3000 miles for a single road game, sometimes at places where the clock is 8 hours ahead or behind.

Divisional Rivals
The Bordeaux Vineyards are said to have a quality secondary and a decent defensive line, at least that’s what my lead scout writes. Other then that, they have a team with potential rather then experience and an offense led by QB Joe Johnson and his close friend and RB Mike Marcano.
The Paris Musketeers are anchored by an amazing offensive line, arguably the best in the league and have a veteran QB in 35yo interceptions throwing Fabian Parker with a nice set of receivers. The defense shouldn’t be a worry, except the secondary with only average starters.
Gothenburg Goblins is led by 36yo RB Jerry McGee and has a young QB in Duane Davis, who’s weakness is his inability to read defenses, but lacks an offensive line to support them well. The charm of the team is the secondary, which is boosted by a bunch of gifted linebackers.

Remaining Teams
With 32 teams, it's hard to evaluate all teams very well, especially since this is before the additional free agency before the exhibition games start. Following is a rundown of the 28 teams outside of Europe, order alphabetically by location.
Anaheim has a talented OL, anchored by standout FB Cole Coleman, and a 37yo QB in Richard Mahon.
Ann Arbor basically has a secondary, some linebackers and QB Donald Woods, but no league super stars.
Asheville has league star LT Vince Taylor, but other then the OL there are only young players.
Astoria is a team with a good OL with extremely talented RB Billy Jamerson running from behind them.
Boston combined a great 3-man DL, anchored by all earth Jose Carrington, with talents at several positions.
Boulder has a DL, two talented CB, but furthermore only young players needing time to get better.
Brooklyn sees rookie RB Monty Avert, taught by FB Randy Saavedra, as their top guy on a young roster.
Chesapeake has the league’s top QB in Jamie Canter and a quality defense run by a LB trio of average age.
Columbus is loaded with decency, only surpassed by some OL and RB Gerald Harris.
Conyers luckily drafted NT Barton Garcia to anchor a 3-4 defense, while Everett Glenn is their franchise QB.
Fairbainks leans on receivers with skill, fed by QB Joey Allen, while the defense is build on a good secondary.
Fort Worth focuses on their OL and secondary, where CB Preston Quezada stands out.
Frederick invested in the future, though middle-aged LTs Dan Koehler and Christopher Perdomo jump out a bit.
Georgia leans on a quality front seven, hoping that RB Joseph Schoen “Joe the Shoe” will anchor the offense.
Leesburg has old DTs Barrett Yancy and Jim Ransom, while LT Jonathan Svoboda’s ego tears the offense apart.
Minnesota has rookie QB Richard Stewart, a quality secondary and DT Walt Spangler to spank to opposition.
North Plainfield is a team of the future, led by top25 fastest CBs Mel Mueller, Scott Benge and Jimmy Sprawn.
Orlando combine an excellent OL with great receivers to make average QB Wayne Christopherson look good.
Outer Banks lacks potential talents and only has some above average OL to get G Richard Osorio noticed.
RayCo is a contender with a good defense, RB Rodger Howery and 37yo QB Brian Hartsock leading the team.
Rochester went for a future-is-more-important approach, with rookie QB Jackie Williamson as their captain.
San Antonio mixes a great OL with a good secondary and QB in John McMasters, but forget their front seven.
San Luis Obispo is a contender, with a tough front seven, if RB Phil Dorsett and QB Victor Whyte stop fighting.
Springfield sees RB Huey Gervais running behind a good OL, while the defense could stop any offense any day.
Stillwater has 38yo QB Norm Rizzo to combine a good front seven with some firepower on offense for one year.
Syracuse is a team with potential when QB Brent Peterman, his receivers and the secondary start maturing.
Tucker has the leading OL duo with Ron Pereza and #1 pick Mervin Pollock, yet the others need time to grow.
Vicksburg managed to get a fine DL, a quality RB with Edward Stelly and troubles on the OL and the secondary.

As I can see at this point, there are so many teams with issues in the league. It makes me think the team to win the first IHOF title will come from a group of seven favorites containing Ann Arbor, Chesapeake, Paris, Springfield and three teams from the Southeast division being Conyers, Georgia and Orlando.

Our Schedule
Our regular season starts at North Plainfield Plague and then we move back to Europe for our first set of divisional games at Paris Musketeers and in Maassluis against Gothenburg Giants. Our season starts with 3 home games in the top 8, but in the following 7 weeks we’ll only travel to relative nearby Gothenburg, finishing it all off with games at San Antonio and RayCo.
Of the top 7 teams I can oversee, we’ll have a tough month of November coming up with games at home against Conyers, Paris and Ann Arbor in weeks 9, 11 and 12. These are the only games against these top teams, except our week 2 divisional starter in Paris.

Team Names, Owners, Locations, Divisions and Coferences
Atlantic Ocean Footbal Conference
Northeast (North)
Chubby Syracuse, NY Syracuse Mohawks
cthomer5000 North Plainfield, NJ North Plainfield Plague
Kodos Rochester, NY Rochester Lake Monsters
primelord Boston, MA Boston Rhinos
Southeast (east)
Celeval Atlanta, GA Georgia Gridlock
KWhit Conyers, GA Conyers Condors
SkyDog Tucker, GA Tucker Tigers
Dutch Orlando, FL Orlando Knights
Deep South (south)
Buzzbee Vicksburg, Miss Vicksburg Vipers
HornedFrogPurple Fort Worth, TX Fort Worth Fury
Senator San Antonio, TX San Antonio Volunteers
TroyF Stillwater, OK Stillwater Dynamite
European (west)
3ric Gothenburg, Sweden Gothenburg Giants
Alf Bordeaux, France Bordeaux Vineyards
Darkiller Paris, France Paris Musketeers
MIJB#19 Maassluis, Netherlands Maassluis Merchantmen
North American Football Conference
Midwest (north)
Daimyo Columbus, IN Columbus Architects
FBPro Tennessee RayCo Raiders
mckerney Minnesota Minnesota Miners
Solecismic Ann Arbor, MI Ann Arbor Anachronism
Mid-Atlantic (east)
cuervo72 Frederick, MD Frederick Red Menace
Hell Atlantic Astoria, NY Astoria Heroes
QuikSand Cheasapeake, MD Chesapeake Chitterlings
SackAttack Brooklyn, NY Brooklyn Fightin' Bums
Atlantic Coast (south)
Samdari Springfield, VA Springfield Isotopes
Subby Leesburg, VA Leesburg Generals
Vegas Vic Asheville, NC Asheville Axemen
WSUCougar Nag's Head, NC Outer Banks Osprey
West (west)
albionmoonlight Fairbanks, AK Fairbanks Northstars
Blackadar Boulder, CO Boulder Bulldogs
Chief Rum Anaheim, CA Anaheim Matterhorns
Vince San Luis Obispo, CA San Luis Obispo Burn

MIJB#19

02-04-2004, 05:21 AM

Pre Season Update
A small update, the Merchantmen have won bidding wars on 9 free agents, meaning we might improve our OL, secondary and returning game a little bit.
Further more, the key players WR Vargas, RB Harris, QB McDavid and MLB Cluff rejected initial contract extensions from 1-year deals to multiyear deals.

And, behind the scenes, the Merchantmen front office is busy with trade talks to improve the secondary and OL a bit more, but we can asure none of the mentioned key players will be traded.
The Merchantmen managament will not comment on the rumors that there are negotiations going on with aliens.

Season start
The season is about to start next week with the exhibition season, so the management hopes to improve the team in time to make sure the first season won't turn out to be an 0-16 season.

Other news
One of the IHOF teams publiced divisional previews in the IHOF Sports Journal, marking the Merchantmen as potential punchbags, to go 2-14 for the season. The journalist in question marked the game against the Rochester Lake Monsters as the crucial "Who will pick #1 in the 2005 draft?"-game.

Last but not least
The management announced the stadium name, the Maassluis Merchantmen will be playing their home games in "Oranje Haven", which is Dutch for Orange Harbour. The name should refer to the fact that the Merchantmen should be fine at their own harbour, yet key to success for the Merchantman is a well done job overseas...

sachmo71

02-04-2004, 08:13 AM

Can you be sure to recount every single thing the league votes on? I'm sure it will set some sort of record. :D

Seriously, good luck. That's some tough competition you are going up against.

3ric

02-04-2004, 09:00 AM

Hey cool, an IHOF dynasty! I'll be very interested in reading your notes!

MIJB#19

02-04-2004, 09:59 AM

Breaking news
The management has agreed to trade backup LDT Richard Duong all the way to Alaska to play for the Fairbanks Norhtstars.
In return, Fairbanks gave up secondary leader and backup LCB Dennis Preciado, who should be one of three veterans to teach the young kids how to play and become an anchorman on the secondary. Rumors are that Preciado made himself impossible after a fight with his main rival for the LCB position, but both players deny that.
Preciado is expected to arrive in 3 days at Schiphol Airport, nearby Amsterdam.

Gossip News
Wheter Richard Duong will arrive in Fairbanks is yet to be seen, as Duong made himself home with the local soft drugs laws and might sneak some much wanted stuff in his bags to Alaska....

MIJB#19

02-04-2004, 10:03 AM

Can you be sure to recount every single thing the league votes on? I'm sure it will set some sort of record. :D

Seriously, good luck. That's some tough competition you are going up against.No kidding!
And it's not a lie that this multiplayer game is my first serious experiance with FOF2004.

Kodos

02-04-2004, 07:46 PM

From the AP Sportswire: Reports out of Rochester are that any trade negotiations are at an impasse at this point.

MIJB#19

02-05-2004, 04:03 AM

From the AP Sportswire: Reports out of Rochester are that any trade negotiations are at an impasse at this point.I heard rumors that the Merchantmen GM has another job as volleyball coach and had other commitments...:cool:

MIJB#19

02-05-2004, 04:47 AM

Roster News
The Merchantmen management is thrilled to announce the conclusion of the trade for LCB Dennis Preciado. Preciado is expected to be the anchorman on the secondary and has stepped up as the secondary leader already.

Roster News
The Merchantman management is proud to announce the extension of contracts with 4 key players. QB Justin mcDavid and MLB Cody Cluff agreed to a 2-year contract, WR and league's co-fastest man Frederic Vargas agreed to a 5-year deal, and RB Randy Harris agreed on a 6-year contract.
With these extensions, the backbone for the offense is sealed, while the services of prospects McDavid and Cuff are extended, awaiting their progress.

Roster News
The Merchantmen management is proud to announce the conclusion of the signing of 9 free agents, being: QB Antoine Shepard, QB Jerrold Sipes, RB Seth Kinney, WR/KR Arnulfo Arnett, C R.J. Miller, DE Junior McKeehan, DT Andrew King, CB Johnnie Stidham and S Jose Haggard.

Roster News
To make the roster legal for he exhibition season, the Merchantmen front office has yet to release two players from their roster. It's generally expected that the victims will be found at QB and CB.

Roster Overview
With the exhibition season about to start, the Merchantmen front office is going to announce the current roster, including the expected trade of WR Amos Collins for LT Harold Hurtado.
QB 3 J.McDavid 14 J.Sipes
RB 28 R.Harris 30 J.Smith
FB 48 V.Lopez 24 M.Burger
TE 81 J.Aubrey 86 J.Reiser
FL 80 G.Monti 88 R.Marshall
SE 83 F.Vargas 87 B.Ewald
LT 0 H.Hurtado 67 W.Dudley
LG 65 D.Burdett 62 A.Young
C 54 R.Miller 53 T.Schwartz
RG 61 D.McDaniel 62 D.Young
RT 73 R.Malave 67 W.Dudley

LDE 98 H.Wells 71 C.Doney
LDT 78 C.Gomez 74 A.King
RDT 96 J.Bryant 74 A.King
RDE 70 D.Chapa 71 C.Doney
SLB 91 B.Silvan 94 O.Lashley
MLB 50 C.Cluff 51 M.Sellers
WLB 95 M.Kershner 94 O.Lashley
LCB 27 D.Preciado 21 Z.Kinney
SS 46 L.Gilmore 41 J.Haggard
FS 25 R.Smith 34 P.Francis
RCB 33 J.Stidham 31 C.Schwartz

P 12 R.Corrales
K 18 C.Coles
H 14 J.Sipes
PR 25 R.Smith 88 R.Marshall
KR 89 A.Arnett 83 F.Vargas
LS 81 J.Aubrey
ST 50 C.Cluff

Gossip News
Rumors are that some analists have questioned the Merchantmen trade of DT Richard Duong for CB Dennis Preciado. Duong, a 3rd round league draft selection, was supposed to become the DT run stopping duo with Charles Gomez, yet the management preferred to upgrade the secondary and give John Bryant the time to grow.

Gossip News
It seems the arrival of DT Andrew King has caused a big fight during a recent training session. King is reported to have critized the linebacking corpse, especially the weak linebackers, leading to a big conflict between WLB Les Norton and King.
Yet, neither of the two cockfighters are assured a roster spot after the first wave of cuts to a 60-men roster, let alone the 53-men roster cuts.

Vince

02-06-2004, 03:14 AM

Keep up the good work, buddy :) It'll be interesting to see a fellow IHOF-ers views.

MIJB#19

02-07-2004, 03:32 PM

Roster news
Sad news for the fans awaiting the arrival of Harold Hurtado. The league commisionair declared that all recent trades will not have effect until after the 2nd week of the preseason, meaning Hurtado will miss the Maassluis Merchantmen's first pre-season game. It also means that WR Amos Collins could play, yet the Merchantmen management is trying to contact the Rochester Lake Monsters' front office to make an agreement to inactivate both players.

Roster news
With the announcement of 2 cuts being prepared for tomorrow morning local time, the players of the Maassluis Merchantmen are thrilled to find out who the first unlucky players are. It is expected that one quarterback and one defensive back will be cut before the first preseason games. Questions about which players will be inactivated for the first preseason game are still unawnsered, yet chances are big the top 7 players of the team will not play.

Kodos

02-07-2004, 07:37 PM

Reports out of Rochester are that Hurtado has turned in his playbook and has been put on the inactive list in anticipation of his move to Maassluis. :)

MIJB#19

02-09-2004, 10:48 AM

Gossip News
Left Tackle Harold Hurtado will not be active for the Maassluis Anglers' second preseason game at the Ann Arbor Anachorism. Our sources report that the Merchantmen are not flying home between the road games at Fort Worth and Ann Arbor, meaning Hurtado will join the team one week late. Wide receiver Amos Collins was also vicitimized over this decission, meaning he won't leave to play the Rochester Lake Monsters for at least another week.

MIJB#19

02-12-2004, 09:43 AM

Preseason News
As the preseason got heated up, the Merchantmen went through the first two games with little injuries, though the worst might still be to come. In games at Fort Worth (20-10 loss) and Ann Arbor (3-point loss). Most inspiring was that fact that neither opponent surpassed the 200 yards passing, even though the Merchantmen secondary is rated as being amongst the worst in the league. Four players on the roster are injured, yet all are expected to be available for the seasonal starter at North Plainfield Plague.

Roster News
Harold Hurtado arrived at Maassluis, injecting some life to the offensive line. Hurtado is expected to lead the OL and already finds himself supported by most of his position mates. The upcoming games, Hurtado is unlikely to play in the remaining preseason games against San Antonio and Boulder.

Roster news
After leading the Merchantmen to the longest scoring drive of the league in pre season, Calvin Snider seesm to increased his chances to make the roster cut. Snider went 8-8 for 75 yards and a touchdown on a 15-yard drive for 99 yards. For th game, Snider went 9-12, yet he hopes to have made a point. Rumors are that other teams are showing interest in the rookie quarterback, yet this could all just be a lie for commercial reasons.

Darkiller

02-12-2004, 01:54 PM

Great to read buddy !
can't wait for our Europeans games...it'll rock ;-)

MIJB#19

02-12-2004, 01:57 PM

Press Release
The Maassluis Merchantmen management wishes their divisional rivals good luck in fourteen of sixteen games this season.

MIJB#19

02-16-2004, 03:45 AM

Pre season news
In the first home game ever, the Maassluis Merchantmen thrashed the San Antonio Volunteers in an exhibition game 41-24. Jerrold Sipes threw for 2 tounchdowns, but the man of the game was tight end Jim Reiser, who caught 6 passes for 85 yards and 1 score. The game was marked by San Antonio quarterback Donaldson, who tossed 5 of his teams' 6 interceptions.

Pre season news
In a game of low rated teams, the Merchantmen sent the Boulder Bulldogs home as losers. Free agent pickup Junior McKeehan made the day as MVP, sacking the Bulldog quarterbacks 4 times. With a pass from Justim McDavid to Mark Burger and a run from Jonathan Smith, the Merchantmen beat the 'dogs 14-7.

Final Exhibition Standings
After 5 weeks of exhibition games, the Maassluis Merchantmen finished fourth in their division with a 2-2 record, marking the European Division as one of only two division with all teams at .500 or better.

Roster cut down day
With the absence of the general manager, the scouting staff of the Maassluis Merchantmen surprised with the the 7 names of unlucky players.
FS Jose Haggard, signed as a free agent as a prospect
LCB Johnnie Stidham, signed as a free agent ment to play as nickelback
RCB David Armstead, a 31st round draft pick with little potential
WLB Oren Lashley, a 47th round draft pick whse arguments with DL Andrew King were the main problem
LT Seth Hirsch, who became unneeded after the signing of Harold Hurtado
C R.J. Miller, signed to a 1-year deal to play as starting center, yet lost the battle and has moved on to the Bordeaux Vineyard
Jerrold Sipes, who was expected to become the #2 quarterback

Week 1 review
In a fourth quarter comeback game, the Maassluis Merchantmen lost 10-13 at the North Plainfield Plague, despite a 10-0 lead at half time. At the absence of the general manager, the scouting and coaching staff had a hard time making the depth chart up, marking Calvin Snider the starting quarterback. Snider went 12 for 35 with 114 yards, 1 score and 3 interceptions. Outstanding performances were shown by Randy Harris, who ran for 83 yards on 16 attempts. With the return of the GM to town, the hopes for better results are here, as the Merchantmen go to Paris next week to play their first European matchup. The Merchantmen now rank second in the division over bigger losses by Paris against Bordeaux and Gothenburg against Vicksburg.

Statistical leaders
RB Randy Harris put up fine numbers against the Plague, rushing for 83 yards to take 6th place in the league.
FS Randall Smith had 1 interception and 1 pass defended in 22 passing plays, leading to a 27.7 pass defense percentage, making him fourth in the league amongst players who played at least 10 passing plays on defense.
The Merchantmen backfield ranks eight in the league in rushing yards, with 137 yards on 29 attempts, while the average of 4.7 per play is fifth in the league.
The defense against the run is amongst the worst in the league, with 210 yards and an average of 5.7 per run, the Merchantmen rank first and third respectively.
The passing game is terrible at the moment, with a completion percentage of .342 and 3.3 yards per attempt, the Merchantmen rank last in the league. The 114 yards make the Merchantmen single-to-last in the league.
The pass defense ranks fourth in the league with 132 yards allowed. Averages of 8.8 per completion and 4.1 per attempt rank the Merchantmen sixth leaguewide. Amazingly the talented defensive line failed to make a single sack.
With just 2 penalties for 10 yards, the Merchantmen are the least penalised team in the league.
The Merchantmen red zone defense leads the league in points per visit, allowing just a fieldgoal in two visits.

Gossip news
Guard Albert Young was caught yelling at the coaching staff in the game at North Plainfield. The 6 foot 5, 343 pounds lineman was not pleased with his backup role for the season opening weekend. Young has competition from Devin McDaniel, who seems to fit better in at right guard for now.

Injury Report
DE Cecil Doney will miss the first half of the season. A severe hamstring injury has him sidelined. Doney is a key member on the line on rushing plays, yet for pass rush purpose he makes space for teammates.
FB Mark Burger suffers from an abdominal strain, making him questionable for the game in Paris. Burger is a talented backup fullback.
RG Devin McDaniel sprained his ankle, making him probable for sunday. If he's found not fit by the staff, Albert Young might take his place as right guard.

MIJB#19

02-18-2004, 06:22 AM

Gossip News
After a bad performace by Calvin Snider at North Plainfield Plague, Justin McDavid is expected to start in the Merchantmen's first divisional game of the season at the Paris Musketeers. Hopes for a good result are there as the Merchantmen will see their best players start for the first time this season. The expectations are high, especially from Randy Harris and the receivers Jeff Aubrey, "Full" Monti, Bryce Ewald and Frederick Vargas. Yet, all should come down to how the defense manages to stop the Musketeers offense, which is leaguewide rated amongst the top5 in the league. When guys like Charles Gonzalez, Cody Cluff, Percy Francis and Dennis Preciado step up, or if Junior McKeehan can copy his preseason performance, the visitors could be involved in the upset of the week, and who knows, for the season.

MIJB#19

02-20-2004, 05:22 AM

Merchantman At Paris Musketeers Recap
With an excellent performance of 17 of 24 completed passes for 99 yards and a score, Paris quarterback Fabian Parker led his team to a thrilling 10-7 victory. It marks the Merchantmen's second loss by a fieldgoal. The Merchantmen tried to fight back from being 10-0 behind, but came never close to even attempting a game tying fieldgoal. For the day, the Merchantmen defense allowed just 223 total yards on 64 plays, marking an excellent defensive performance, yet worth nothing if the offense can't come up big.

Individual Statiscical Performances Week 2
Randy Harris excelled once again, rushing for 63 yards on only 11 attempts. Even better were Bryce Ewald's 6 receptions for 96 yards and a score, while tighte end Jeff Aubrey caught 6 for 60 yards. Quarterback Justin McDavid made his debut in the IHOF, completing 17 of 36 for 176 yards and a score without an interception and running for 22 yards. On the defensive side, Cody Cluff recorded 10 tackles, while Deon Chapa marked the team's first sack of the season. Defensive tackl Charles Gomez excelled with 6 tackles and 1 assist. Left tackle Harold Hurtado made a promising debut with 3 key run blocks and no sacks allowed.

Merchantmen Statistical Performance For The Season
The rushing game ranks 10th with 117 yards per game and 4th with 4.9 yars per attempt.
The rushing defense ranks 31st with 160 yards per game and 27th with 4.3 yards per attempt.
The passing game ranks 32nd with 41% completed, 29th with 145 yards per game and 31st with 4.1 yards per attempt.
The passing defense ranks 20th with 57% completed, 3rd with 123 yards per game and 3rd with 4.2 yards per attempt.
The Merchantmen tie for last with a -3 turnover margin with 4 give aways and 1 take away.
The offense ranks 28th with 22% of third downs converted, the defense 14th with 34% third down conversions allowed.
The Merchantmen are the least penalized team in the league with 9 penalties.
The red zone offense ranks 12th with 4.6 points per visit with 2 touchdowns and no fieldgoals in 3 visits.
The red zone defense ranks tied for 3rd with 3.2 points per visit with 1 touchdown and 2 fieldgoals in 4 visits.

Injury Report
Defensive end Cecil Doney is still unavailable over his hamstring injury. Doney is aiming to a return after the open weekend.
Mark Burger's abdominal strain shouldn't avoid him from being able to play in the first home game of the Merchantmen this season.
Devin McDaniel and Jeff Fontenot are reported to be 100% fit again.

Individual Seasonal Stats
QB Justin McDavid ranks 14th leaguewide with a passer rating of 71.0 amongst players with at least 30 attempts.
RB Randy Harris ranks 8th with 146 yards and 3rd with 5.4 yards per attempt amongst players with at least 20 rushes.
TE Bryce Ewald ranks 15th with 151 yards and ties for 1st with 2 touchdowns.
DT John Bryant ranks 7th in tackles amonsgt defensive linemen.
LB Cody Cluff ranks 5th in tackle percentage amongst players with at least 40 plays played.
DE Deon Chapa ranks 5th in the league in pass rush percentage amongst players with at least 40 plays played.

Week 3 preview
In week 3, the Merchantmen will play their first home game of the regular season as the Gothenburg Giants come south to play in one of only two battles between two 0-2 teams. Anchorman for the Giants is running back Jerry McGee, who's 13 receptions rank him 4th in the league. Cornerback Harley Gowan stands out on defense with 2 interceptions and 5 passes defended. The Giants are 3-point favorites, yet the Merchantmen have beaten the spread in both road games this season.

VPI97

02-20-2004, 08:14 AM

The Merchantmen tie for last with a -3 turnover margin with 4 give aways and 1 take away.The turnovers have made the difference so far...turn that stat around and you'll be seeing wins. The Merchantmen played good enough to win in both their games.

MIJB#19

02-20-2004, 01:29 PM

The turnovers have made the difference so far...turn that stat around and you'll be seeing wins. The Merchantmen played good enough to win in both their games.Can't deny that.
But at this point, I shouldn't complain, being competitive with the only 5(?) players with experience doesn't sound bad to me. :cool:

MIJB#19

02-22-2004, 04:53 AM

Late Coming News
Before the season start, two teams have changed from ownership. Buccanneer took over the Stillwater Dynamite, while TRO took command of the Columbus Architects.

MIJB#19

02-23-2004, 06:27 AM

Merchantmen Versus Giants Recap
Randy Harris improved his reputation in the league, leading the Merchantmen to a 31-27 victory by running for 3 touchdowns on his 95 yards day. But MVP honours went to quarterback Justin McDavid, who completed 19 of 27 passes for 234 yards and a score. Another fine show came from Bryce Ewald, who's 123 yards on 7 catches marked a top performance and Dennis Preciado, who defended 7 passes from the opponent, including 3 in consecutive plays, and who returned 5 kickoffs for a total of 120 yards. On the day, the Merchantmen defense stept up once again, allowing just 1 offensive touchdown and 2 fieldgoals, the remaining 14 points came from interception and fumble returns. This victory marked the first in the team's history leaguewide and at home. Amazingly enough, the Merchantmen are now favoured to beat Columbus next Sunday by 1 point, but the management urges fans not to be optimistic too early in the season.

Injury Report Week 4
DE Cecil Doney is the only player listed as injured. His sore hamstring seems to heal as scheduled.

Week 3 Statistical Performances
RB Randy Harris ran for 95 yards on 18 carries and scored 3 touchdowns.
QB Justin McDavid completed 19 of 27 passes for 234 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception, which was returned for a touchdown.
WR Bryce Ewald had 7 receptions for 123 yards.
WR Gregory Monti scored 1 touchdown on 3 receptions for 39 yards.
DE Harold Wells made 6 tackles, 1.5 sacks and 2 assists.
DT Charles Gomez had 2 tackles and 3 assists.
DE Deon Chapa had 3 tackles, 0.5 sacks and 1 fumble recovery.
LB Mike Kershner had 4 tackles, 2 assists and forced 2 fumbles.
FS Randall Smith made 1 interception, 3 tackles and 1 assist.
SS Lincoln Gilmore made 1 interception, 2 tackles and 1 assist.
CB Dennis Preciado defended 7 passes and made 6 tackles.
The offense ran for 117 yards (4.1 per attempt) and passed for 234 yards (8.6 per attempt).
The defense allowed 132 yards rushing (4.7 per attempt) and 223 yards passing (5.3 per attempt).
The turnover margin was 3 versus 3.
The defense allowed 8 of 16 third downs to be converted.
The offense converted just 2 of 9 third down attempts.
The Merchantmen had an average of 11 yards of terrain less to make to the endzone.
Key statistic was that the Giants only scored a touchdown on their first drive.

Statistical Show After 3 Weeks
QB Justin McDavid ranks 6th in passer rating amongst quarterbacks with at least 45 pass attempts.
RB Randy Harris ranks 7th with 241 rushing yards, 1st with 3 touchdowns and 2nd amongst players with 30 or more rushes.
WR Bryce Ewald ranks 4th with 274 yards and is one of many players ranking 2nd with 2 touchdowns.
CB Dennis Preciado ranks 1st in the league with 7 passes defended.
The rushing offense ranks 14th in yards per game and 3rd in yards per attempt.
The passing offense ranks 24th in yards per game, 24th in yards per attepmt and 28th in completion percentage.
The rushing defense ranks 32nd in yards per game and 25th in yards per attempt.
The passing defense ranks 13th in completion percentage, 4th in yards per attempt and 5th in yards per game.
The offense ranks 31st in 3rd down conversions and 20th in on defense in 3rd down conversions.
The red zone offense ranks tied for 4th in points per visit with 5 touchdowns and 1 fieldgoal in 7 visits.
The red zone defense ranks tied for 7th in points per visit with 2 touchdowns and 2 fieldgoals in 6 visits.
The Merchantmen are amongst the least penalized teams in the league, yet they do get too many penalties of 10 yards or more.

Week 4 Preview
The Architects are coming to town. Columbus are 2-1 after beating San Luis Obisop and Minnesota at home and losing 3-30 at RayCo in between. The Architects are amongst the weakest teams on offense, yet that shouldn't provide too much expectations as the Merchantmen are no front runners either. On defense, the Architects show their skill on passing plays while on rushing plays their statistics are as mediocre as they can be. Columbus are, like Maassluis, a young team with lot of upside. Quarterback Robby Gonzalez is prototypical for his team, he's supposed to have a bright future. Running back Gerald Harris is the backbone of the offense as he 3 of the Architects 5 offensive touchdowns.

Other News
R.J. Miller, once singed as a free agent and introduced as the center of the Merchantmen offense has been released by the Bordeaux Vineyard after they acquired wide receiver Toby Williams in a trade for their 2005 first round draft pick with Fairbanks Northstars.

3ric

02-23-2004, 06:53 AM

MIJB#19

02-23-2004, 07:09 AM

Euorpean Division Standings Week 3
2-1 Bordeaux
2-1 Paris
1-2 Maassluis
0-3 Gothenburg

MIJB#19

02-23-2004, 08:12 AM

Gossip News
After the amazing 31-27 victory over the highly rated Gothenburg Giants, Maassluis Merchantmen defensive end Geoff Lake outed his concerns over his involvement in the victory. Lake, at 6'8" the tallest player on the team, who started in the first game of the season hasn't played a down since that road game at North Plainfield Plague and demands to see more action. All comes as a surprise to the staff, especially at the longterm absence of Cecil Doney over an hamstring injury. The management seems to prefer Junior McKeehan over Lake as the premier backup to starters Harold Wells and Deon Chapa, who both seem to do a great job stopping the opposition. Wells ranks second in tackles amongst defensive linemen leaguewide, while Chapa had key stats in the win over Gothenburg, including a forced fumble and an assisted sack. A note from the management red: "Geoff has been a bit unlucky not seeing action in the past two games, Deon is doing a great job on the right side of the line so far and has the stamina to keep playing. For Geoff it is important to make sure to be ready if one of the other guys goes down." Perhaps the leadership of Andrew King is coming short on this matter, though with the little to no action King sees, he might have other things on his mind...

MIJB#19

02-23-2004, 09:00 AM

Maassluis Merchantmen Logo, Helmet And Banner
After reading Vince's IHOF dynasty regarding the San Luis Obispo Burn, I found it a good idea to advertise Cuervo72's great work on logo's, helmets and banner for the IHOF.

The Merchantmen In Game Logo
http://www.fof-ihof.com/images/logo09_me.gif

The Merchantmen Helmet
http://www.fof-ihof.com/phpBB2/images/avatars/gallery/helmets/maassluis.jpg

The Merchantmen Banner
http://www.fof-ihof.com/images/banners/Maassluis-Banner.gif

cuervo72

02-23-2004, 11:05 AM

Well....the logo here wasn't of my creation, just the color scheme and arrangement. But thanks.

MIJB#19

02-24-2004, 01:17 PM

R.J. Miller Update
Following an injury wave at Chesapeake Chitterlings, R.J. Miller has been signed to get the favourites for a playoff ticket in shape for their week 4 game against Conyers Condors. Miller could already be the most moving player in league history, being cut earlier on by the Maassluis Merchantmen and the Bordeaux Vineyards.

MIJB#19

02-26-2004, 06:04 AM

Week 4 Preview
The fans are confident, the players are and the management is trying to keep things cool in Maassluis. The Merchantmen haven't lost a home game in the first season of the IHOF, yet the Columbus Architects are coming to town, tagged as underdogs. The Merchantmen have been underdogs al year thusfar, especially veterans like Harold Hurtado, Dennis Preciado and Vincent Lopez have a tough job keeping the players focused. Lopez: "We're lucky to have so little injuries, were lucky against Gothenburg, and very unlucky on the road. If the defense keeps stepping up like they have done until now, I think we have a chance to improve to 2-2, but everybody has to focus on their job." Preciado, coming of an amazing game with 7 passes defended, praises the offense: "Sure, we lost due to some bad timed turnonvers. But what are the odds that every single fumble or interception leads to a score, we've been unlucky, but are glad to be competitive with this young team so far." Harold Hurtado has another opinion: "We have a big group of potential stars, yet thusfar it came all down on the legs of Randy Harris. It's amazing how well he's been converting the little opportunities we've given him. Not to mention how well Justin (McDavid) has been anticipating on the weakness of our line on passing plays. Let's hope we can get another upset victory added to our record." The Merchantmen will play the Architects later today in Oranje Haven, which is expected to be about 1,000 seats close to sold out.

Alf

02-26-2004, 07:23 AM

MIJB#19

02-26-2004, 07:29 AM

I didn't cut him. The AI did when I couldn't import Week 3 file. I would have loved to keep him and cut a scrub RB instead...Still, I'm sticking with the facts here. The AI cut him for me too, I projected him as starting center for my team, but I was mentally unavailable to submit roster cuts and my scout decided to get rid of him. Funny to see the guy has been cut by the AI twice now, I'm wondering when the Chitterlings will have enough of him...

MIJB#19

02-26-2004, 12:34 PM

Maassluis Merchantmen Versus Columbus Architects Recap
Despite holding the Architects to 25 yards rushing and a total of 186 yards on offense, turnovers and lack of scoring cost the Merchantmen the unbeaten streak at home, losing 3-13. Justin McDavid completed 13 of 27 passes, tossed 2 interceptions and was sacked 5 times, as the offensive line couldn't perform like they did in the first three games. Yhe Merchantmen drop back to a 1-3 record, for still third place in the European Division. Next week is a road game at Bordeaux, where a victory can keep the Dutch team close to the playoff race after 5 weekends.

Statistical Performance At One Fourth Of The Season
QB Justin McDavid completes 54 % of his passes for 191 yards per game and 6.4 per attepmt, with 0.7 touchdowns and 1 interception per game
RB Randy Harris ran for 303 yards and 4.8 yards per attempt and 3 touchdowns, ranking him 8th, 5th and 2nd leaguewide
WR Bryce Ewald has 19 receptions for 312 yards and 2 touchdowns, ranking him 13th, 6th and 6th leaguewide
TE Jerry Aubrey has 16 catches for 135 yards to rank him 4th and 5th amongst tight ends
The rushing offense's 112 yards per game and 4.5 yards per attempt rank 15th and 4th leaguewide
The rushing defense's 119 yards per game and 3.6 yards per attempt rank 22nd and 13th leaguewide
The passing offense's 49% for 172 yards per game and 5.5 yards per attempt rank 29th, 25th and 24th leaguewide
The passing defense's 56% for 160 yards per game and 4.9 yards per attempt rank 18th, 6th and 3rd leaguewide
The Merchantmen rank last in turnover margin with 10 giveaways and 4 takeaways
The Merchantmen rank 30th in 3rd down converting with 24% on offense and 19th on defense with 38%
The red zone offense ranks 5th with 5 touchdowns and 2 field goals in 8 visits
The red zone defense ranks 9th with 3 touchdowns and 4 field goals in 9 visits

Injury Report
DE Cecil Doney will remain out of action as expected with an hamstringinjury
OT Willie Dudley's sore ribs force him out of the Bordeaux game, making Jeff Fontenot return to the active roster

European Division Standings
3-1 Paris
2-2 Bordeaux
1-3 Maassluis
0-4 Gothenburg

MIJB#19

02-29-2004, 10:36 AM

Week 5 Preview
The Merchantmen management was without internet access for the duration of almost the entire weekend, making unclear what Maassluis will do in the road game at Bordeaux Vineyards. The Vineyards and Merchantmen owners have had hands in eachothers ownerships, making this a friendly, yet crucial game early in the season. The Vineyards are 1 victory ahead of the Merchantmen, meaning a win by the visitors would cause a switch of the #2 and #3 positions in the European Division. The Merchantmen management also announced that only one player will be unavailbale, being the long term injured defensive end Cecil Doney.

Ownership News
The Stillwater Dynamite general maganer/owner TroyF returned from a short absence over personal reasons to his office. The move means the IHOF league commish announced temporary Stillwater manager Buccaneer as the first-to-be-called when teams lose their owner for whatever reason.

MIJB#19

03-01-2004, 06:18 AM

Merchantmen At Vineyards Recap
Despite an early 7-0 lead, hte Merchantmen were totally outplayed by the Bordeaux Vinyards. The French home team won 28-7, anchored by quarterback Joe Johnson's three touchdown passes, while runnig back Cedric Rubio ran for 122 yards and a score. With this loss, the Merchantmen have returned to last place on the power ratings.

Seasonal Stats
QB Justin McDavid completes 52% of his passes for 179 yards per game, 5.9 yards per attempt, and tossing 3 touchdowns and 4 interceptions in 4 starts, for a rating of 64.7.
RB Randy Harris ran for 344 yards, 4.8 yards per attempt and 3 touchdowns, ranking him 8th, 5th and 4th league wide.
TE Jeff Aubrey has 21 receptions for 174 yards and 1 touchdown, making him a top5 tight end in all categories.
WR Bryce Ewald has 21 receptions for 339 yards and 2 touchdowns, ranking Ewald 7th in yards league wide.
DE Harold Wells has 23 tackles, 8 assists, 2 sacks and 4 hurries in 5 starts.
DE Deon Chapa has 17 tackles, 3 assists, 1.5 sacks, 1 blocked pass and 4 hurries in 4 starts.
DT Charles Gomez has 17 tackles, 8 assists, 0.5 sacks, 1 blocked pass and 3 hurries in 4 starts.
LB Cody Cluff has 31 tackles and 10 assists.
CB Dennis Preciado defended 7 passes, made 22 tackles and 7 assists for a pass defense precentage of 20.6.
LT Harold Hurtado ranks 6th in Offensive Percantage amongst tackles with 21.1%, making 5 key run blocks on 19 oppurtunities an allowing 1 sack in 134 passing plays.
The rushing offense has 102 yards per game and 4.4 per attempt, ranking the team 23rd and 6th.
The passing offense completes 48% for 166 yards per game and 5.3 per attempt, ranking the team 29th, 26th and 27th.
The rushing defense allows 127 yards per game and 3.7 per attempt, ranking the team 24th and 13th.
The passing defense allows 61% completed for 167 yards per game and 5.1 per attempt, ranking the team 27th, 6th and 5th.
With 11 give aways and 5 take aways, the Merchantmen rank 30th in turnover margin.
The offense ranks 32th on 3rd downs with 26%, the defense ranks 23rd with 41%.
The red zone offense scores 6 touchdowns and 2 fieldgoals on 9 attepmts for 5.3 points per visit, ranking 3rd in the league.
The red zone defense allows 6 touchdowns and 4 fieldgoals on 12 visists for 4.5 per visit, ranking 14th in the league.

Single Game Top Performances By Merchantmen
The 31 points against Gothenburg mark a top 10 performance league wide.
The 25 yards rushing allowed against Columbus mark the 2nd best performance league wide.
The 195 total yars allowed against Columbus mark the 5th best performance in the league.
Randy Harris still holds the single game rushing touchdowns record untied with 3 touchdowns.
Bryce Ewald's 123 yards against Gothenburg mark the 11th best individual receiving performance.
Dennis Preciado's 7 passes defended against Gothenburg mark a league best thusfar.

Injury News
DE Cecil Doney will be out of action due to his hamstring injury.
RB Jonathan Smith strainded his elbow, making him unavailable for about a month.
FB Vincent Lopez suffers from a knee injury, making Mark Burger the #1 fullback.
LT Willie Dudley still suffers from a bruised ribcage, yet should play as normal, him being a second stringer.

Alf

03-01-2004, 06:56 AM

I can say I am quite pleased by my QB performance so far this year ! I think Joe is #1 in Passing Rating in the IHOF !

MIJB#19

03-01-2004, 07:36 AM

I can say I am quite pleased by my QB performance so far this year ! I think Joe is #1 in Passing Rating in the IHOF !
By far, really.

MIJB#19

03-02-2004, 06:58 AM

Week 6 Early Preview
Maassluis versus Rochester, before the season start marked as a game between the main rivals to finish with the worst record in the Atlantic Ocean Conference. After five weeks of play, the Lake Monsters have moved up to a playoff position at 3-2, while the Merchantmen have won just 1 of 5 games. The friendship between the teams has been shown by the preseason trade of offensive line leader Harold Hurtado for the best wide receiver of the other team. But next Thursday, gloves are burried and the long before battle for the first pick in the draft is whiped from the players minds, it's time to show which team is not the weakest. The Lake Monsters are early favourites in some power rankings by 10 points, where other systems show a marginal advantage for the home team. Key element for the Merchantmen is how many turnovers on offense will cost the team there chances. Key for the Lake Monsters offense is how they will cope with the talented defense from Maassluis and how effective they will be in the red zone. The Maassluis Merchantmen put their team in the underdog position, especially after last week's beating at Bordeaux, where Rochester surprised the Vineyards earlier this season. Crucial for the Maassluis offense is the absence of veteran fullback Vincent Lopez. The staff has faith in future star Mark Burger, yet Lopez seems to be doing a great job keeping the younger kids quiet. Lopez: "Mark can get it done, he's 100% fit again, he'll lead Randy (Harris) and Justin (McDavid) the way." Harold Hurtado, the other offensive anchorman: "I've seen the Lake Monsters system. We can beat it, though it will be tough." Amos Collins was unavailable for comments, his disloyalty to the Merchantmen caused him to reply "No comment" on any question from a Dutch reporter.

MIJB#19

03-03-2004, 08:15 AM

Introducing The Staff
After five weeks of play and four preseason games, the Merchantmen management found it the right time to introduce the head coach, lead scout and offensive and defensive coordinators of the team.
Head Coach is Arnold Blackburn. Blackburn is 56 years old and on a one-year contract. Blackburn's true skills are those of an offensive coordinator, yet he's a quality head coach too. Motivating the players and coping with injuries are his specialties.
Offensive Coordinator is Jerome Hodges. Hodges is only 35 years old and signed a one-year contract. Hodges' preference lies in the defensive area, but has the skills to be a fine coordinator on offense at this point.
Defensive Coordinator is Floyd Seba. Seba is on a one-year contract and 40 years old. Seba's main assesment is developing young talent, while his primary position skills are found at linebacker.
Lead Scout is Brad McGarity. McGarity was signed to a one-year deal with the Merchantmen at the league start. McGarity is 60 years old and his specialties are running backs and young talent.

GM Notes
Amazing how the league forced Blackburn to be the head coach in stead of offensive coordinator and put Hodges on the wrong side of the ball, while Seba could be as good a head coach as Blackburn, I think.

Kodos

03-03-2004, 06:02 PM

It should be an interesting showdown. A loss by Rochester would suggest that our early success was mostly based on luck. A win wouldn't do much to prove that Rochester should be considered a playoff contender, but also wouldn't do anything to suggest that we are not. In any case, good luck, and may the worst team lose! ;)

MIJB#19

03-04-2004, 03:50 AM

Northwood_DK

03-04-2004, 03:58 AM

Likewise.
I wish we could both overshadow the league and reach the playoffs, but at 1-4, I'll need a couple of 5-game winning streaks...

Dont give up. The Eagles was 3-7 and on a 6 game loosing streak before turning things around an reaching the very first eNFL Super Bowl.

Kodos

03-04-2004, 01:33 PM

Without giving anything away, all I can say is: WHAT A BARNBURNER!!! :eek: Great game, MIJB!

MIJB#19

03-05-2004, 06:28 AM

Maassluis Merchentman Versus Rochester Lake Monsters Recap
Randy Harris runs wild on every down, but his last action fell short to win tie the game at 27-27, as the Lake Monsters go home victorious after a 27-25 victory. Cary Coles scored 4 field goals, 2 in the fourth quarter to get the home team from behind. The Monsters almost collapsed after a 20-3 half time lead, yet were lucky enough to stay going. Maybe the difference between winning teams (Rochester, 4-2) and losing teams (Maassluis, 1-5) was shown perfectly today. Justin McDavid found himself battling his tears. "Three interceptions are too much, I think I now know what Randy felt like after his game losing fumbles." The Merchantmen have become front runners for the #1 pick, yet next week they're going to 1-4 Minnesota to find out how bad they really are.

Statistical Performances Week 6
RB Randy Harris ran wild again with 84 yards and a 5.6 average.
QB Justin McDavid completed 18 of 37 passes for 224 yards, 2 scores and sadly 3 interceptions.
WR Bryce Ewald made 6 receptions for 88 yards.
TE Jerry Aubrey had 4 receptions for 58 yards and a score.
FS Randall Smith made 1 interception and 5 tackles.
SS Lincoln Gilmore made 9 tackles and 1 assists.
LT Harold Hurtado made 2 key run blocks on 4 opportunities and allowed no sacks.
DT Charlie Gomez made 4 tackles, 1 sack and blocked 1 pass.
DT John Bryant made 5 tackles, 2 assists, 1 sack, 1 hurry and forced 1 fumble.

Seasonal Stats By Merchantmen
QB Justin McDavid completes 52% of his passes for 940 yards, 5 scores and 7 interceptions in 5 starts, giving him a QB Rating of 61.8.
RB Randy Harris runs for 428 yards and 3 touchdowns, averaging 4.9 per carry, ranking him 6th, 4th and 3rd league wide.
WR Bryce Ewald's 27 receptions for 427 yards and 2 scores rank him 10th, 4th and 12th league wide.
TE Jerry Aubrey's 25 receptions for 232 yards and 2 scores rank him 3rd, 4th and 3rd amonsgt tight ends in the league.
FS Randall Smith is amonsgt 12 players with 3 or 4 interceptions league wide.
LB Mike Kershner is amongst 8 players with 3 or 4 forced fumbles.
The passing offense's 48%, 176 yd/game and 5.4 yd/attempt rank 27th, 25th and 22nd league wide.
The rushing offense's 104 yd/game and 4.4 yd/attempt rank 23rd and 6th in the league.
The passing defense's 63%, 171 yd/game and 5.3 yd/attepmt rank 30th, 8th and 8th in the league.
The rushing defense's 126 yd/game and 3.7 yd/attepmt rank 25th and 12th league wide.
14 giveaways and 8 takeaways rank the Merchantmen tied for 31st in turnover margin with -1 per game.
On third downs the Merchantmen rank 31st and 27th on offense and defense respectively.
With 7 touchdowns and 5 field goals in 13 visists, the offense's 4.9 pt/visit ranks 10th league wide.
With 9 touchdowns and 6 field goals in 17 visits, the defense's 4.7 pt/vists ranks 20th league wide.
The Merchantmen rank 24th in both points scored and allowed with 13.8 and 19.6 averages respectively.

Injury Report
Backup RB Seth Kinney suffered a hamstring injury, but is expected to be available against Minnesota.
G Albert Young agrevated his shoulder injury and is out for 4 weeks.
Backup RB Jonathan Smith remains unavailable with an elbow injury.
Backup S Percy Francis strained a deltoid muscle forcing out of next weeks game.
DE Cecil Doney will not play, despite being given the green light by the staff.
Starting C Tom Schwartz has a minor injury.
FB Vincent Lopez is probable.
LT Willie Dudley remains a questionmark.

European Division
After a week in which all active European teams lost, the Paris Musketeers returned at the top. With the playoff cut sitting at 2 losses at this point league wide, all four have theoretical chances to reach the terrific twelve.
3-2 Paris Musketeers
3-3 Bordeaux Vineyards
1-5 Maassluis Merchantmen
0-6 Gothenburg Giants

Preview To The M&M's Game
Two teams in the league hold the same initials in M.M. The Maassluis Merchantmen and Minnesota Miners will face eachother in week 7 at Minnesota in a game between two teams with only 1 victory. How good are the Miners?
Minnesota has an experienced, but limited talented quarterback in Jason Gott.
Larry Martell is a so-so running back with just 223 yards in 5 starts so far.
The offensive line is below average.
The Miners deploy a 3-4 defense with a great defensive line and linebackers.
The secondary is not as good as the front seven, but great enough to make it really tough.

MIJB#19

03-05-2004, 06:30 AM

Without giving anything away, all I can say is: WHAT A BARNBURNER!!! :eek: Great game, MIJB!Randy Harris has put up such good numbers over the year, but seems to not get it done when he really needs to get us a victory in close games...

MIJB#19

03-07-2004, 06:11 AM

Roster News
Following Geoff Lake's continueous arguments over his playing time, the Maassluis Merchantmen management deactivated Lake in favor of defensive tackle Andrew King, to give the defensive front leader possibly his first playing time this season. King should boost the well performing defensive line, hoping personal arguments with Michael Kershner won't overshadow his official entree.

MIJB#19

03-07-2004, 06:31 AM

Hmm, 510 views in 34 days, is that good?
Or is that just me dropping into FOFC every day through this tread?

Nyarlahotep

03-07-2004, 02:03 PM

Don't know if the view count is good or not, but I check in every time there is a new post.

MIJB#19

03-08-2004, 03:54 AM

Don't know if the view count is good or not, but I check in every time there is a new post.I wasn't wondering whether the view count is correct, I was more interested in finding out if I have readers. Obviously, I have.:D

That #1 is getting closer and closer people...:o

3ric

03-08-2004, 05:30 AM

Of course you do. I read every word posted in this thread.

MIJB#19

03-08-2004, 05:34 AM

Merchantmen At Miners Recap
Fumbles cost you games, especially inside your own 30 yards. Jaime Brinkman scored 46 and 48-yard fieldgoals to complete a 20-7 lead at half time for the Miners. With the Merchantmen scoring only 1 touchdown per game, the Miners held the lead, winning 33-13 at home. On the day, Jason Gott was the Miners biggest reason to win, passing for 2 scores and 229 yards while completing 23 of 33 passes.

Statistical Performance By Merchantmen
QB Justin McDavid completed 13 of 26 passes for 132 yards and a touchdown, while rushing for 22 yards.
RB Randy Harris ran 14 times for 50 yards and had 1 reception for 7 yards.
CB Dennis Preciado had 5 tackles and 3 assists.
DE Deon Chapa had 3 tackles, 1 assists, 1 sack and 2 hurries.
The offense ran for 69 yards (3.4 avg.) and passed for 132 yards (5.0 avg.) and lost 3 of 4 fumbles.
The defense allowed 118 yards rushing (3.6 avg.) and 229 yards passing (6.9 avg.) and forced no fumbles or interceptions.

Injury Report
The Merchantmen management wants to urge the fans not to demand to big of a game at Boston Rhinos. The road game marks the last game of the first half of the season and the Merchantmen hope to have a healthy team for the last seven games of the year.
RB Seth Kinney's injury is still a mystery, keeping him as third stringer over his hamstring injury.
RB Jonathan Smith is ready to play, but will be forced to rest his arm for another week or two.
C Tom Schwartz will start, despite a bruised stenrum.
G Albert Young's shoulder injury keeps him sidelined until after the open weekend.
DE Cecil Doney is ready to play, but won't be activated before the open weekend in week 9.
DT Stanley Jacke bruised his heel, probably making Geoff Lake active again against Boston.
LB Sam Sasa strained a foot ligament and is out for the Boston game.
CB Gus Alston sprained his neck, making this a dangerous injury and him likely deactivavted for week 8.
FS Percy Francis remains unavailable with a strained deltoid muscle.
Returning to action is FB Vincent Lopez, while LT Willie Dudley is also 100% again.

European Division Standings
After a Brodeaux loss and Gothenburg upsetting Paris, the standings stayed put over head to head tie breakers. The current playofss cut in the Atlantic Ocean Conference sits at 2 losses, but with all two wild cards situated in one division, all teams with 3 losses or less have all in their own hands.
3-3 Paris Musketeers
3-4 Bordeaux Vineyards
1-6 Maassluis Merchantmen
1-6 Gothenburg Giants
Amazing record of the season sits at Fort Worth's last place in their division with a 2-4 record, despite their 2-0 divisional record.

Seasonal Stats For The Merchantmen
QB Justin McDavid completes 51% of his passes for 179 yards, 1 touchdown and more then 1 interception per game, having a 5.8 yards per attepmt average and a passer rating of 64.0.
RB Randy Harris ran for 478 yards, 3 touchdowns and a 4.7 yard-per-carry averages, ranking him 8th, 5th and 3rd league wide.
TE Jerry Aubrey has 30 receptions for 262 yards and 2 touchdowns, ranking him 3rd, 4th and 3rd amongst tight ends.
WR Bryce Ewald has 30 receptions for 474 yards and 2 touchdowns, ranking him 14th, 6th and 15th league wide.
G David Burdett has 8 key run blocks on 32 opportunities and allows 2 sacks in 209 plays, giving him a percentage of 23.1 and ranking him 6th amongst guards and 15th league wide.
LT Harold Hurtado ranks 9th with 19.5 percent amongst tackles with 8 key run blocks on 26 opportunities and 1 sack in 200 plays.

Boston Rhinos Preview
The Rhinos are 4-2 and in the middle of a divisional title race with North Plainfield Plague and Rocheters Lake Monsters, teams that already beat the Merchantmen. The Rhinos are a top team in defending against the run, with a slightly below average pass defense. Their offense are below average on passing and little above average on rushing. All in all, the Rhinos should be a team to fear, especially on the road, allowing just 13 points in their 2 home games so far. The main story of the Rhinos is the career threatening injury of Jose Carrington, their star defensive end, taken 14th overall in the league draft. With their top defensive back Royster Randall injured against Maassluis, the Rhinos defense should be a little worse. The Rhinos are coming of a lost game at North Plainfield and should be expected to be motivated to get back in the divisional lead.

Kodos

03-08-2004, 01:12 PM

I check in a couple times a week as well. :)

Beat the Rhinos!

VPI97

03-08-2004, 05:52 PM

I check in a couple times a week as well. :)Ditto.

MIJB#19

03-09-2004, 07:31 AM

I see!
Well, I'll keep on updating anyway.:)

MIJB#19

03-14-2004, 07:45 AM

Updating is delayed due to non-access to the game. When my laptop is up and running again, reporting will be continued.

Alf

03-14-2004, 11:18 AM

I am reading also !

MIJB#19

03-15-2004, 07:37 AM

Gossip News - Merchantmen Missmanagement
After two weeks of absence of the general manager, it became clear why the GM was out of the office. With a defunct laptop, the GM found it hard to do his job, yet the coaching staff did a fine job keeping the team running. After close losses in the past two games, the management still announced drastic changed. That is, if the GM's laptop is back to buisness in the near future. The GM gave a "No comment" to rumors of him spending his time on other things. With the adapter of his laptop in his hand, he swore "Chasing the local chearleaders" was not going through his mind. Stories about the Conyers Condors chearleaders taking a later flight then the football players back to Georgia were denied by the league. Anonymus sources confirm stories of GM MIJB being sighted in local bars after midnight on the day before the game, for both the road game at Boston and the home game against the Condors.

MIJB#19

03-15-2004, 08:07 AM

Week 8 Recap - Maassluis At Boston
With the score tied at 17-17, Edward Boatwright earned MVP honours, returning an interception of a Justin McDavid pass for a score. The Boston Rhinos deserved the victory over offesensive stats, yet failed to turn yards into points on numerous occasions. With 146 yards rushing and 8.4 yards per pass attempt, you'd expect a team to thrash the opponent, but the Rhinos were kept away from the end zone pretty well by the Merchantmen defense. It marks the next in a long list of Merchantmen losses mainly based on a turnover, commited by an offensive player, turning into a defensive score for the opposition. At 1-7, the Merchantmen can forget about their playoff hopes, despite the weak division they play in. Only a streak of 8 victories can help them back in the race. As of now, the Merchantmen are in a serious battle with the San Luis Obispo Burn for drafting first overall in the next amateur draft.

Week 9 Recap - Conyers At Maassluis
With dubious dicissions on fourth downs and two fumbles by Merchantmen players returned for scores, the superb play by Maassluis defense was overshadowed. The Conyers Condors walked away victorious 17-16 on arguably the most undeserving loss of the year. Justin McDavid fumbled four times, while Randy Harris added another two, making the decent offensive performance look worthless. The Merchantmen defense allowed just 74 yards rushing and 96 yards passing including 2 interceptions to average 3.0 yards per play. The Conyers offense never even reached the Merchantmen red zone, as they only scored on a 41-yard field goal and two opponent fumbles returned from their own half for scores. The Merchantmen stand at 1-8 going into their open weekend, licking their scratch with the lack of wounds, as only Seth Kinney's mysterious hamstring injury can worry the staff injurywise. Following the game, the Merchantmen have moved up in the gambling games for drafting #1 overall in the amateur draft, despite San Luis Obispo Burn's 0-8 record.

Standings - European Division
After 9 weeks of play, with the Merchantmen going into their open weekend, the European Division is expected to provide only one team into the playoffs this season, despite the close battles in other Atlantic Ocean Conference divisions. French rivals Bordeaux and Paris are battling each other for the division title, while the Giants and Merchantmen have half a season left to show the league they are happy with a top 5 draft pick this early in the season.
4-4 Bordeaux Vineyards
4-4 Paris Musketeers
1-7 Gothenburg Giants
1-8 Maassluis Anglers
The coming round of games, playing European teams play at home. Bordeaux host the leaguewide "Yankeed" Syracuse Mohawks, Paris play the lowly ranked Minnesota Miners and Gothenburg will see the Orlando Knights come to town, making GM Dutch return to Europe earlier then expected.

Schedule - Merchantmen Last Seven Games
The Merchantmen won't be flying to the States for the next six rounds of games. They are scheduled with an open weekend, four home games and a road game at European rivals Gothenburg Giants. With only the honour to play for, the Merchantmen management announced they hope to see the team finish the year with at least 4 victories at home. That means they expect the team to go at least 3-2 over the next 5 games. The last two games of the year, the Merchantmen are expected to take a spoilers role to the playoff bound teams: San Antonio as 5-3 division leaders and RayCo as 6-2 wild card race leaders.
Week 11 vs. Paris Musketeers
Week 12 vs. Ann Arbor Anachorism
Week 13 at Gothenburg Giants
Week 14 vs. Bordeaux Vineyards
Week 15 vs. Syracuse Mohawks
Week 16 at San Antonio Volunteers
Week 17 at RayCo Raiders

MIJB#19

03-15-2004, 08:38 AM

Press Release - Denial of GM's private life affecting results
Following the gossip news spreading the words worldwide on the Merchantmen GM having found a better way to spend his time, the Maassluis Merchantmen want to distinguish themselves from the news reported at Front Office Football Central (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/~fof/forums/showpost.php?p=410624&postcount=57) that the Merchantmen GM is spending his time in bars, drinking with women in the age group of 18 to 20, in stead of setting up a game plan for games the following day. In his own words, the general manager wants to make the situation clear.
GM M. IJ. B.: "What happened is that the adapter of my laptop died the day before the Rhinos game. Then, in stead of going to Boston, I spent all day in The Hague following advisory classes at The Hague University. The day after the game I've been out of the office to buy a new adapter without success. The day of the game against the Conyers Condors I spent at home being ill. Today, I went to the local hardware store to make sure I can do my work again before the game against the Paris Musketeers, to start our streak of good luck games. If people feel I failed at doing my job well, I appolagize. Still, the staff and players, especially on the defense and the two players acquired in the offseason, Harold Hurtado and Dennis Preciado, have shown we are competitive over those games. I wish I could promise victories, but football is a game of inches, rather then miles."

MIJB#19

03-15-2004, 09:52 AM

Simple Statistical Analysis - Fumbles
Stop wondering why the Merchantmen are losing games, the problem has been found, a solution is still far from discovered. The Merchantmen quarterback and running back "lead" the league in fumbles made.
Fumble Leaders
8 McDavid,Justin QB Maassluis Merchantmen
7 Harris,Randy RB Maassluis Merchantmen
6 Keith,Roy QB Boulder Bulldogs
6 Wood,William RB Fort Worth
5 seven others ** several team

MIJB#19

03-19-2004, 03:07 PM

Week 11 Preview: Paris At Maassluis
The Musketeers are coming to the city, people are getting ready for this must one to stay in the divisional title race. The team is healthy, with only backup running back Seth Kinney inactivated over his misterious hamstring injury. Justin McDavid and Randy Harris promised not to fumble too much against Paris, but promises are no guarentee. Statisticians at the Merchantmen office figured out the Maassluis defense ranks amongst the top 3 in yards per attempt allowed league wide, being a top 8 team in both yards per rush, yards per pass attempt and yards per completion allowed. The Paris offense has seen those skills at their own place, winning with a marginal 3-point victory. Big news is the return of Cecil Doney, the backup defensive end has finally healed from an hamstring injury sidelining him for half of the season. With Dennis Preciado and Harold Hurtado anchoring their sides of the ball, things look good again.

Gossip News - Merchantmen GM Back In Office
The general manager of the Maassluis Merchantmen is back in the office, our anonymus sources report us. Some sources report that an engineer was flown in from a small island from the coast of the Netherlands to fix the laptop of the GM, but we suspect his hangover is done and he's been denied by the local cheerleaders. Still, with or without their GM, the Merchantmen are a 1-8 team heading towards a 3-13 seasonal record to clinch a top 3 pick in the first amateur draft of the IHOF. Odds of Maassluis taking a quarterback who can avoid fumbles seems to be their number one need.

Kodos

03-19-2004, 03:36 PM

Hey, if you get rid of the fumblers, you may not get such nice draft picks in the future. :D

MIJB#19

03-20-2004, 06:12 AM

Hey, if you get rid of the fumblers, you may not get such nice draft picks in the future. :D:D

Alf

03-20-2004, 07:15 AM

Hoping you kick Darkiller's ass next game ;)

Kodos

03-20-2004, 12:11 PM

Crush the Mouseketeers! :D

MIJB#19

03-20-2004, 02:27 PM

Only me forgetting to send an export file, or my laptop's adapter falling asleep again, can avoid my team from being competitive against Paris.
I hope I set the fumble avoidness bars into the right direction this time...:o

MIJB#19

03-25-2004, 02:52 AM

Maassluis Versus Paris Recap
After the earlier loss in Paris by three points, the Merchantmen were hopeful to avenge their loss and improve to a 2-8 record. The game started with good passes from McDavid to Harris and Aubrey setting up a 41-yard field goal, which Cary Coles misses.
Paris bounched back, but had a hard time reaching the red zone, settling for a 39-yard field goal for an early 3-0 lead.
The first quarter ended with both teams failing to gain many yards and being forced to punt.
Into the second quarter, the Merchantmen found themselves on their own half, failing to gain yards and punted to see their opponent return the punt for 70 yards and a tuchdown, giving Paris a 10-0 lead.
With Smith, Harris, Lopez and Burger running for short gains, the Merchantmen moved up, ending in Justin McDavid passing to Jerry Aubrey for a 26-yard touchdown, staying in the game.
The Maassluis defense stepped up and held the Musketeers offense off, forcing a punt. The Merchantmen couldn't win yards and eventually Paris got the ball back just in time to kick in a 23-yard field goal to end the half, leading 13-7.
In the second half, Paris went of to a great start, anchored by Wiggins, who scored on a 12-yard run for a touchdown, giving the visitors a 13-point lead.
But the Maassluis offense answered well, gaining a lot of yards on every play, ending in the inevitable touchdown: Justin McDavid to star receiver Bryce Ewald for 4 yards.
Going into the fourth quarter, the Musketeers moved up field again, settling for a 34-yard field goal and expanding the lead to 9 points at 23-14.
The Merchantmen found themselves unable to get of their own half and punting with roughly 10 minutes left.
Paris showed some quality time consuming, giving the Merchantmen the ball back with just 5:13 left on the clock.
Justin McDavid knew what to do and started to take risky decissions a risk and seemed to lead his team well after a 15-yard completion and a 6-yard run. But on 2nd and 4, McDavid failed to hit his receiver and got intercepted. Bryce Ewald left the field injured.
The Merchantmen defense stepped up, giving the offense the 2-minute call and time outs to win the game.
McDavid, with his new target Frederic Vargas stepping in, passed and passed and had some miracle completions.
It included a 47-yard pass to Vargas and a 12-yard pass at the Paris 26 on 4th and 10 to Gregory Monti.
Then, with just 13 seconds left, McDavid saw the game end, seeing his pass intercepted in the end zone to end the game at 14-23.
The Musketeers take their much wanted victory to stay in the playoff race, while the Merchantmen move up in the draft selection order as rivals Georgia Gridlock and Gothenburg Giants had surprising victories.

Merchantmen Statistics
QB Justin McDavid passed for 247 yards, completing 18 of 32 passes for 2 touchdowns, but also 2 interceptions.
WR Frederic Vargas had 6 receptions for 113 yards.
LT Harold Hurtado made 5 key run blocks.
DT Charles Gomez had 3 quarterback hurries and 5 tackles.
CB Dennis Preciado made 7 tackles and 1 assist.
RB Randy Harris remains amonsgt the elite rushers in the league with 70 yards per game and 4.4 yards per attempt.
TE Jerry Aubrey averages 42 yards on 4 receptions per game and has 4 touchdowns.
WR Bryce Ewald averages 61 yards on 4 receptions per game and has 3 touchdowns.
QB McDavid and RB Harris are still amongst the 5 players with the most fumbles in the league.
The Merchantmen defense still ranks in the top 10 in yards per rush and yards per pass attempt, while leading the league in yards per completion at only 9.0.
As a team, the Merchantmen offense had 25 turnovers, to be returned by only 11 take aways to rank with a -14 margin last in the league by a margin of 6.
The long defended good red zone defense statistics have worn off and turned into an average 4.5 per visit to go along the offense's 4.7 per visit.
Randy Harris still holds the single game eushing touchdowns record with 3, set in the Merchantmen's only victory.
Dennis Preciado keeps defending his single game passes defended record at 7, set in the Merchantmen's only victory.

MIJB#19

03-25-2004, 03:09 AM

Maassluis Versus Ann Arbor Preview
"No nonsense, the odds look the other way, but if we stay away from turnover battle field, we have our chances". Harold Hurtado, the big man on offense against Paris with 5 key run blocks tries to keep his men hopeful to win games. Justin McDavid's job is at stake as his fumblitis has cost he Merchantmen serious chances to win games. At -14 at the turnover tables, 6 worse then the second worst, it's clear where the Merchantmen are losing their games. Hurtado: "Guys like Cody [Cluff], Dennis [Preciado] and the defensive linemen can get things done, keep the opposition out of the end zone." Fans are especially awaiting Randy Harris' fourth touchdown run, after scoring only three times before this season, racking them all up against Gothenburg and taking the IHOF single season record for now. Harris: "If Frederic [Vargas] can get his speed in place, we might not miss Bryce [Ewald] as much as anticipated." Bryce Ewald is the only player on the Merchantmen roster unavailable for the game against the heavily favored Anachronism. The fans are aware of Ann Arbor's thrashing of the Fairbanks North Stars, until last week the heavily favored team to take the league title, but Ann Arbor finds themselves returning into the mix. If the Merchantmen can pull off the sensation, people will talk about it the rest of the year, independant of remaining victories in coming weeks. It's time to get rid of the image of top favorites to draft # overall in 2005...

Dr. K

03-25-2004, 03:12 AM

<table border=0 cellspacing=1 width=550><tr bgcolor=#4A5875><td width=35><img border=1 src="http://www.fof-ihof.com/images/logo06_me.gif"></td><td><center>Ann Arbor Anachronism (8-2) at Maassluis Merchantmen (1-9)</center></td><td width=35><img border=1 src="http://www.fof-ihof.com/images/logo09_me.gif"></td></tr></table><table border=0 cellspacing=1 width=550><tr bgcolor=maroon><td colspan=2>Who to watch</td></tr><tr bgcolor=white><td width=75>Ann Arbor </td><td width=475>QB Donald Woods - 229.2 Yards per Game, 18 TD, 6 Int, 91.8 QB Rating RB Garrett Freitas - 66.5 Yards per Game, 5 TD Def. Secondary - RCB Ballhawker, FS Harness, SS Winkle all have 4 Ints</td></tr><tr bgcolor=white><td>Maassluis </td><td>RB Randy Harris - 70.1 Yards per Game, 3 TD MLB Cody Cluff - 64 Tackles, 23 Assists QB Justin McDavid - 188.8 Yards per Game, 11 TD, 11 Int, 68.9 QB Rating</td></tr><tr bgcolor=maroon><td colspan=2>Why to Watch</td></tr><tr bgcolor=white><td colspan=2>Will the Anachronism have the same intensity as they displayed in last week's surprise shellacking of Fairbanks? Ann Arbor needs to watch out for the let-down factor as they travel across the Atlantic to meet the Merchantmen.</td></tr><tr bgcolor=maroon><td colspan=2>Key Stats</td></tr><tr bgcolor=white><td colspan=2>Ann Arbor - 17 Team Interceptions (2nd in IHOF); Massluis - 7 Team Interceptions (27th)</td></tr><tr><td bgcolor=#4A5875>Key Injuries </td><td bgcolor=white>Ann Arbor - RCB John Q. Ballhawker, Questionable Ann Arbor - Hilton Feaster, Probable Ann Arbor - RB Garrett Freitas, Probable Maassluis - SE Bryce Ewald, Out</td></tr><tr><td bgcolor=#4A5875>Vegas Says</td><td bgcolor=white>Ann Arbor by 12</td></tr><tr><td bgcolor=#4A5875>Dr. K Says</td><td bgcolor=white>Ann Arbor is too much for Maassluis to handle... 31-13, Anachronism</td></tr></table>

MIJB#19

03-25-2004, 03:17 AM

Gossip News
After last weeks two interception performance, Justin McDavid should fear losing his starting job in 2005. The Merchantmen are heading for a top 5 selection in the upcoming draft and reliable sources say the Merchantmen are anticipating on picking a quarterback with their top selection. McDavid did not want to comment on the story, but he seems determined to show how good he can be. Thusfar, McDavid has led his team to some heroic drives, giving the Merchantmen five competitive games they lost by seven or less points. McDavid's fumblitis seems to be the main concern, but Randy Harris, the overrated running back in Maassluis has taught him the "skill". All in all, the defense is maturing, stepping up week after week, but McDavid seems to let them down. Question is, how can another rookie quarterback with an improved defense win less games next year then McDavid did so far? We call those chances very slim. McDavid is 1-8 as a starter, don't be amazed if Calvin Snider is making the calls in the all important game at Gothenburg...

MIJB#19

03-25-2004, 06:53 AM

Dr. K should start to learn how to spell Maassluis.:p

Darkiller

03-25-2004, 06:58 AM

LOL

Darkiller

03-25-2004, 07:02 AM

[QUOTE=MIJB#19]Gossip News
The Merchantmen are heading for a top 5 selection in the upcoming draft and reliable sources say the Merchantmen are anticipating on picking a quarterback with their top selection. QUOTE]

dola.

Hmm..I certainly hope the upcoming drafted will be loaded at the Quarterback position. I expect A LOT of teams to be looking for their next heir apparent.

Alf

03-25-2004, 07:27 AM

dola.

Hmm..I certainly hope the upcoming drafted will be loaded at the Quarterback position. I expect A LOT of teams to be looking for their next heir apparent.
Not me. I have biggest needs at OL & LB...

Kodos

03-25-2004, 10:38 AM

I think I've always spelled it correctly, but how do you pronounce Maassluis?

Here's my best guess:

"Moss-Loose."

MIJB#19

03-26-2004, 04:57 AM

I think I've always spelled it correctly, but how do you pronounce Maassluis?

Here's my best guess:

"Moss-Loose."Ding-ding-ding:
Kodos = Dr K. ?
But really, Dr. K misspelled it only once. Where I kept misspelling Anachronism until this week...

Don't even try, the "ui" part in "sluis", it is unpronouncable for non-Dutch.
The "aa" in "Maas" rather sounds like the "i" in "fire", yet you have to swallow the "e" sound (like in "me"...
The "ui" is best represented as an "oy" combo, yet it's still very far from what it really soinds like.

"Moss-Loose"? Try "Mass Loss"...

Boy, oh, boy, that Ann Arbor game review out to de good and bad in one...

MIJB#19

03-26-2004, 09:52 AM

Merchantmen Management looks forward praising losing team
After yet another lost home game with seven or less points, the Merchantmen management wants to praise the team for their great performance against the playoff bound Ann Arbor Anachronism. "The players had all week to learn to pronounce that team's name, yet within a few hours everybody was able to say Anachronism." said Merchantmen quarterback Justin McDavid, who threw 2 interceptions in the 16-20 loss and ran for almost as much yards (68yd) as he passed for (71yd). McDavid: "Maybe the unpronouncable name of our own team helped to get us in shape to say Anachronism, where teams with nicknames like Burn, Tigers or Knights should have a hard team learning that." The Merchantmen dropped to 1-10 and with Gothenburg and Georgia on two-game winning streaks, the Brooklyn Fightin' Bums and the Boulder Bulldogs remain as the only teams within one victory. The road game at Gothenburg is the last straw to avoid finishing last in the European Division in this first year of IHOF football for the Merchantmen. Randy Harris looks back to the only game where he ran for scores this year, at home against Gotheburg, the Merchantmen's "pieces of puzzle falling together"-game. The team is ready for a copy of that game, but the Giants have become winners after 60 minutes, where Maassluis remain as competitive for 60 minutes...

Injury Report
Tight end Jerry Aubrey and defensive tackle Charles Gomez are still black and blue after the game against the Anachronism. Aubrey suffered a neck injury, possibly forcing Jim Reiser into the starting lineup next week. Aubrey is a key element on the passing game, leading the team with 47 receptions and 4 touchdowns. Aubrey: "If Jimmy [Jim Reiser] get's the go ahead, I'll be supportive to him. Jim has all it takes to be a top tight end in the league someday, maybe starting on the road in this do-or-die game will help him become a better player." Charlez Gomez' sore knee give the Merchantmen less concern, yet Gomez might be pulled from the line in favor of Andrew King. With 41 tackles, 14 assists, 3.5 sacks, 3 blocked passes and 6 quarterback hurries, Gomez is a key element on the defensive line to stop opposing running backs from breaking through the line. Andrew King: "Well, playing in stead of Gomez won't make our line better, but I hope to do as good as he does and stop that McGee guy." Both Aubrey and Gomez are game day decisions, unlike Bryce Ewald. Ewald is still recovering from a torn calf muscle and won't return to the active roster this week. "If things don't go better really soon, I might miss the last home game..." said Ewald on a press conference. Ewald was racking up yardage to finish in the top 10 in the league in yards, but know will be unlikely to be concidered an All Conference selection. Runnign back Seth Kinney is also unlikely to play, as his mysterious hamstring injury worries the management to play him and see him go out long term.

Kodos

03-26-2004, 11:10 AM

Ding-ding-ding:
Kodos = Dr K. ?

Nope. I can 100% confirm that I am NOT Dr. K.

"Moss-Loose"? Try "Mass Loss"...

Well, now there's a strangely appropriate pronunciation! ;)

Dr. K

03-29-2004, 06:24 AM

<table border=0 cellspacing=1 width=550><tr bgcolor=#4A5875><td width=35><img border=1 src="http://www.fof-ihof.com/images/logo09_me.gif"></td><td><center>Maassluis Merchantmen (1-10) at Gothenburg Giants (3-8)</center></td><td width=35><img border=1 src="http://www.fof-ihof.com/images/logo21_me.gif"></td></tr></table><table border=0 cellspacing=1 width=550><tr bgcolor=maroon><td colspan=2>Who to watch</td></tr><tr bgcolor=white><td width=75>Maassluis </td><td width=475>RB Randy Harris - 70.3 Yards per Game, 3 TD, 4.3 YPC MLB Cody Cluff - 69 Tackles, 25 Assists LDE Harold Wells - 5.5 Sacks, 7 QB Hurries, 42 Tackles, 12 Assists</td></tr><tr bgcolor=white><td>Gothenburg </td><td>RB Jerry McGee - 69.2 Rush YPG, 1 TD, 56 Catches, 31.8 Rec YPG, 1 TD LDE Chris Nagel - 10.5 Sacks, 10 QB Hurries, 38 Tackles, 14 Assists SS Chris Peterson - 66 Tackles, 25 Assists, 1.0 Sacks</td></tr><tr bgcolor=maroon><td colspan=2>Why to Watch</td></tr><tr bgcolor=white><td colspan=2>In the European Division's "other" head to head matchup, the Maassluis Merchantment travel to Gothenburg with hopes of doubling their win total for the season. The Giants' all around back Jerry McGee will try to ensure the visitors stay at one win as he hopes to follow up last week's 170 yard performance against Bordeaux with another triple digit day running the ball. Merchantmen defenders Cody Cluff and Harold Wells will need to help Maassluis shut down McGee if they want to keep this game close...</td></tr><tr bgcolor=maroon><td colspan=2>Key Stats</td></tr><tr bgcolor=white><td colspan=2>Neither team has had much success in reaching the end zone this season...Maassluis averages 14.5 PPG; Gothenburg 12.6 PPG</td></tr><tr><td bgcolor=#4A5875>Key Injuries </td><td bgcolor=white>Maassluis - SE Bryce Ewald, Out Maassluis - TE Jerry Aubrey, Probable Maassluis - LDT Charles Gomez, Probable Gothenburg - SILB Steven Marshall, Out Gothenburg - LCB Harley Gowan, Out Gothenburg - SS Rod Frizzell, Doubtful Gothenburg - LG Lionel Casillas, Doubtful Gothenburg - C Rocky Schramm, Probable</td></tr><tr><td bgcolor=#4A5875>Vegas Says</td><td bgcolor=white>Gothenburg by 3</td></tr><tr><td bgcolor=#4A5875>Dr.K Says</td><td bgcolor=white>The Merchantmen's only victory came against Gothenburg in their first meeting...The Giants will get their revenge. 20-9, Gothenburg</td></tr></table>

MIJB#19

03-30-2004, 03:19 AM

Sorry readers,
Lack of internet access at home and being busy all Monday filming a movie made it impossible for me to do any updates before today and a busy schedule makes it har for me to write a few piece of text before Thursday.

MIJB#19

04-01-2004, 06:06 AM

I fear I have to forfeit yet another preview... Sorry...

MIJB#19

04-05-2004, 02:30 AM

Merchantmen At Giants Review
With Gothenburg at 3-8 and Maassluis at 1-10, this game could be a decider about the last place in the European Division.
In the first game, the Merchantmen were victorious 31-27 in a well deserved fourth quarter comeback game.
In Gothenburg, the Merchantmen won the toss and elected to receive.
The Merchantmen were off to a great start, with a key 40-yard pass from Justin McDavid to Gregory Monti setting up a 1-yard touchdown McDavid pass to Vincent Lopez. Followed by a short drive from the home team.
On their second possession, the Giants defense stepped up an held the visitors to 3 yards gained, followed by a marveouls 57-yard punt return setting up the tying touchdown.
Then, Randy Harris showed his mark, fumbling on the first down of the next drive at the Maassluis 29, setting up a 41-yard Gothenburg field goal for the Giants 10-7 lead.
Harris recovered with a 20-yard rush, while McDavid found backup tight end Jim Reiser twice to set up a 40-yard field goal, which Cary Coles sadly missed.
The Giants seemed to get back in the game, but as always, the Maassluis defense are tough to beat at their own half forcing a punt.
As McDavid was getting in the game and Harris racked up his yardagae totals, all of a sudden Billmaier intercepted McDavid at the Maassluis 26 and returned into to set up a McGee touchdown run: 17-7.
With the demotivating drive just played, McDavid came back on the field missing the drive and got sacked on third down. The Giants took the profit of a bad punt and marched into the endzone, with McGee scoring.
McDavid then was handed two minutes to get the Merchantmen back in the game in the first half, yet was haunted by Billmaier, first being tackled on a scramble and then intercepted at his own 33 to see the Giants go 31-7 up.
With a minute left, McDavid was unable to move his men forward, despite an amazing Gothenburg timeout with 30 seconds left.
In the second half, Gothenburg could easily sit back and enjoy the 31-7 lead, yet had 30 minutes of play left to defend their turf.
In their first drive, the Merchantmen defense forced a three and out, giving McDavid the chances to shine.
McDavid hit Jerry Aubrey for 12 yards, Gregory Monti for 36 yards and ran for yards in between drooped passes, eventually settling for Coles scoring a 32-yard field goal.
31-10 up, the Giants ran wild, led by McGee, but were forced to kick and settle for a 28-yard field goal.
Down by 24, the odds for the Merchantmen were shrinking, especially with less then 20 minutes left. McDavid tossed complete passes all over the place moving his men forward.
Then speedy Frederic Vargas was hit for a 44-yard touchdown pass, giving the Merchantmen some chances with little more then a quarter left.
McGee inspired his Giants once again, seeing the Merchantmen defense stop the home team for a 48-yard field goal.
McDavid hit Monti for 21 yards, being down by 20 and having 10 minutes left to keep the chains moving fast.
In a 3rd and 15 situation, McDavid managed a 14-yard completion to Arnett, followed by Mark Bulger converting the 4th and 1 for a first down.
With Burger converting a 3rd and 1 shortly after, the Merchantmen saw their hopes grow, but at 4th and 4 on the Giants 21, Coles missed another field goal.
The Giants fans started celebrating with 6 minutes left, seeing their offense stooped and all of a sudden a punt blocked to see the Merchantmen at the Giants 34 with 154 second left.
McDavid handed off twice to Johnathan Smith and finished off a 2nd and 1 at the Giants 1 himself.
With a minute left, the Merchantmen went for the onside kick, lost control and saw their two time outs insufficient to stop the clock.
Cornerback Dominic Billmaier easily took the MVP honors, with 2 interceptions, 1 for a score, a sack and 4 tackles.
Once again, turnovers cost the Merchantmen the game, but the Giants running game seemed unstoppable to be held to no scores.
Even holding the opposing pass offense to just 93 yards doesn't count when their running game advances 178 yards.
Justin McDavid did improve his single game performace by 51 yards to 294 yards in one game, but with 2 more interceptions, what does one buy with it?
What's left is a battle to avoid ending up last league wide for the Merchantmen. With Fort Worth and Brooklyn winning, the Merchantmen have lost two more rivals in the race for the #1 draft pick...

Merchantmen Management Messages
After the unneeded loss in Gothenburg, the Maassluis Merchantmen management announces possible chances in the depth chart next week. General Manager M.IJ.B. was clear on the offense: "face it, Justin [McDavid] and Randy [Harris] show top 10 of the league performances but they combine for a shocking 17 fumbles and McDavid adds 16 interceptions to the mix." Bright lights are there on the offense as Frederic Vargas has replaced Bryce Ewald very well and Harold Hurtado keeps showing up as an elite offensive lineman. M.IJ.B. said "Harold does what he has to do, he's a first round selection, he's doing what he's paid for. And he does it very well the last couple of games." Hurtado made 17 key blocks in the last 4 games. The defense is fast dropping on the yardage rankings, but the general manager sees no concern there: "As long as the defense can stop the opponent on long drives, we can win games. Crucial are those drives where the opposing team starts in our teritory due to turnovers." The -19 turnover margin remains as the biggest concern for the team, but the management is confident to solve the problem next season, M.IJ.B.: "Our staff is convinced of Harris' ability to get rid of fumblitis. Justin McDavid is a whole different story. Face it, he's basically a one year solution, us hoping to get a top talent quarterback in the upcoming draft." With the more then likely top 5 or possibly even higher draft pick, te Merchantmen should be in the position to get a quarterback. M.IJ.B.: "It's too early to conclude the draft is all there is, the draft pick could be interesting for other teams to trade for a quality quarterback, we hope."

MIJB#19

04-05-2004, 08:04 AM

Gossip News: Cure For Fumblitits?
Last week, anonymous sources reported to us the Merchantmen medical team have discovered a cure for fumblitits, which the team has been suffering from over the past months, seeing Justin McDavid and Randy Harris as league number one and two in fumbles mid-season. The past games, the team mysteriously avoided fumbles, especially in the game against the highly ranked Ann Arbor Anachronism. But testing seems to have backfired already as Seth Kinney has been inactived for weeks with a mysterious hamstring injury sideling him. Our sources asure us the injury is caused by the use of the mysterious cure. Also, our sources claim the cure also features some forbidden substances, making the use of the fumblitits cure a risk during drugs testing. When the first Merchantmen players is caught is yet to be seen, but the lack of serious injuries for most of the season in Maassluis can't be coincidence...

MIJB#19

04-05-2004, 08:10 AM

Merchantmen Management Denies Cure For Fumblitis Rumors
The medical staff of the Maassluis Merchantmen have not found a cure for fumblitits, despite the rumors told at an irreliable source as Front Office Football Central (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/~fof/forums/showpost.php?p=430918&postcount=83). Randy Harris and Justin McDavid have not been treated with the mysterious medicine. The management is hoping the last home game of the season against the Syracuse Mohawks hands the team the second home victory after losing the previous six with seven or less points. The Merchantmen managament assures the fans there are no forbidden substances to be used by players and there have not been tests of a cure on backup running back Seth Kinney for a few months. The medical staff denies that the mysterious hamstring injury Kinney suffers from has been initiated by the non-existing medicin. The management point to the discipline of the players making them aware of the risks of injuries and helping them avoid injuries as much as possible. The management also wants to point out that Bryce Ewald has been suffering a very serious injury, making his incredible receving perfromance shorted by at least 4 games, while Cecil Doney has been out of action for two months earlier on.

MIJB#19

04-15-2004, 06:07 AM

For the fans:

I'm working on a review of the season, yet have no date for when it will be finished.

MIJB#19

05-01-2004, 03:54 AM

Maassluis Merchantmen 2004 Review
With our team sitting dead last in the European Division of the AOC, with a much telling 1-15 record, the season didn’t quite go as hoped, yet the outcome is relatively as expected. The league draft made clear our goal would be to give the young promising rising stars their needed playing time, which some picked up and others didn't.

Results
The season started out not so bad, a couple of close losses followed by a victory in the first home game of the season gave us hopes of winning more games then anticipated. The amazing performance at the season start of the Rochester Lake Monsters, a team in basically the same situation us ours, gave us more hope to be competitive all year and steal a miracle victory here and there.
What followed was a streak of thirteen straight losses, most of them being of the same scenario. In a lot of games we took an early 7-0 lead, only to see a couple of lost fumbles force us down by around 3 to 10 points and battle against time to tie the score. In the end we came short on even tying the score game after game, giving us the sad looking 1-15 record, yet several games inspired us to keep hoping on better times. Especially the 4-point loss against championship favorites Ann Arbor Anachronism, the 3-point loss in week one with reserve players against AOC top seeds North Plainfield Plague, holding playoff reaching Columbus Architects and 9-7 Conyers Condors to under 200 total yards on offense, marked meager highlights of the season.

Individual Performances
Rookie Justin McDavid quarterbacked like a possessed man, had a hard time not giving the ball away, ending in a league leading 13 fumbles and third worst with 22 interceptions. On the other end were his 19 touchdown passes, ranking him seventh in the league. His total of 2904 yards passing in 15 games ranked him twelfth league wide. In a league with several talented rookies starting at quarterback, McDavid ranked first amongst them in yards and touchdowns passed for, outperforming highly rated David Conti.
Randy Harris had a weird season, never rushing for 100 yards in a single game and rushing for scores in only one game, the victory over Gothenburg Giants, in which e set an untied record of 3 rushing touchdowns in a single game. Harris hardly made the 1000-yards mark at 1027, with a decent 4.0 yards per carry average. Harris’ surehandness was spotted with as he helped the opponents more then his own team, fumbling in every two games.
Star fullback Vincent Lopez had an injury plagued season, eventually leading him to start only 9 games. His stats aren’t as astonishing and it seems backup Mark Burger is already ready to take over the fullback duties next season.
Tigth end Jerry Aubrey outperformed highly rated wide receivers Bryce Ewald, Frederic Vargas and Gregory Monti, as he earned All IHOF First Team honors with 67 receptions (fourteenth league wide), 760 yards and 6 touchdowns (tied for eleventh league wide). Aubrey also set his blocking mark with 9 key run blocks on 19 opportunities and hit the 100-yard mark in the last game of the season. Jim Reiser will have a hard time starting next season.
Bryce Ewald was on the march for a top ten receiving yards season, until he got severely injured and missed a game or four. Eventually he ended up with 47 receptions for 683 yards and 3 touchdowns, hitting 100-yards in the Gothenburg victory.
Frederic Vargas and Gregory Monti showed up when Ewald was injured, both marking decent years with over 30 receptions, around 500 yards receiving and 5 and 3 touchdowns respectively. Both hit the 100-yard mark in one game all season.
Harold Hurtado was the main man on the offensive line, making a league wide tied for seventeenth number of key run blocks. Hurtado had a run blocking percentage of 36.4, allowed 5 sacks in 520 passing plays and ended up as an All IHOF Second Team selection. Other linemen had so-so years, with none being worth mentioning.
Harold Wells marked an extraordinary season, as the defensive end totaled 65 tackles, 9.0 sacks, 4 blocked passes and 14 hurries. With those stats, he ranked third league wide amongst defensive ends in tackles.
Charles Gomez sidekicked Wells well, as the tackle made 68 tackles, 5 sacks, 5 blocked passes and had 8 quarterback hurries. Other starting defensive linemen like John Bryant (60 tackles) and Deon Chapa (5 sacks) produced a little less.
Linebacker Cody Cluff came a few short for 100 tackles as he totaled 99 for the season, but did earn Defensive Rookie of the Year honors.
Cornerback Dennis Preciado was the obvious cornerstone of the passing defense, making 63 tackles, 2 interceptions and defending 11 passes. Note that 7 of those defended passes cam in the Gothenburg victory, marking a single game record and making the total look a little low.

MIJB#19

05-01-2004, 04:15 AM

2005 Season Preview

Schedule
When the 2005 schedule was revealed, the Merchantmen management was amazed to see a weird looking schedule. The season stars with a home game against Gothenburg, the 2004 game that gave us our only victory of the season. Following are a lot of road games, with eventually a season end of five games at home of the last six, with the last three all played in Oranje Haven. The inter-conference games are against owners who bring a little more rivalry to town, as do the match-ups against Orlando, with Dutch as manager, and Rochester. And the Conyers Condors are also familiar faces, they beat Maassluis 17-16 last season on two fumbles recovered for touchdowns.

Free Agency
With 46 players signed, the future looks save, yet only fourteen players have contracts not ending after the 2005 season. The management will have a lot of work to do in the off season to negotiate with players worth extensions. That includes the likes of All IHOF Tight End Jerry Aubrey, talented defensive ends Harold Wells and Deon Chapa, Defensive Rookie of the Year Cody Cluff, cornerstone Dennis Preciado, fullback Vincent Lopez, quarterback Justin McDavid, linebacker Mike Kershner and safety Randall Smith. Also, the contracts of seven offensive linemen will end after the season.

Draft
The Merchantmen management has sent out the message throughout the league of which players are available for trade, they all are (potential) starters. The list includes Justin McDavid, Jerry Aubrey, Vincent Lopez and backup defensive end Cecil Doney, who has a three years of contract left. Second, the management made clear that the #1 selection is available to help us trade down, while the other selections at #33, #65, #97, #129, #161 and #193 are available to help us trade up.

Staff
Sadly, the contract of all four staff members have ended, yet we hope to retain the services of the head coach and coordinators, though we’d rather sing them at other roles then last season, making their profiles fit their jobs best. Head coach Arnold Blackburn would be better off at offensive coordinator. That would make us Jerome Hodges move to defensive coordinator and Floyd Seba become the new head coach. That is, if all three are willing to stay in Maassluis. Plus, with the addition of a staff member salary cap, we are unable to keep only two out of three. Lead scout Brad McGarity’s contract also ends, yet we don’t feel the need to retain his services, likely ending his stint in Maassluis after just one season.

Battle Plan for 2005
The quarterback situation is the most troublesome. Justin McDavid showed glimpses of skill. McDavid set rookie record in passing yards and passing touchdowns, yet his fumble numbers and his limited skills and potential make the fan favorite a more then likely casualty of renewal. The first pick in the draft could be used on a quarterback, yet if the right trade offer comes around, we might take a quarterback in later rounds, all depending on the availability of prospects in the draft.
The offense has to do better then last season’s 290 yards per game. The consistency of the rushing game is a good sign, yet the unpredictability of the passing game is a big negative. And with yet another rookie quarterbacking in 2005, the signs are not so good.
For the rushing game, we hope to see Randy Harris grow into a top 10 running back. With the help of either Mark Burger or Vincent Lopez at fullback, All IHOF Second Team left tackle Harold Hurtado leading the offensive line and the wanted upgrades at the other positions on the line. Last season, not a single opponent held the Merchantmen to less then 60 yards of rushing, where the team had just 25 attempts per game.
The passing game should remain as strong as last season. Bryce Ewald and Frederic Vargas could make a nice combo, with Jerry Aubrey or Jim Reiser at tight end and capable backs to help out when needed. An upgrade at the offensive line could help out to make the pass rush of opponents avoid the big number of fumbles. Last season, only the Ann Arbor Anachronism managed to stop the Aubrey and the youngster.
The 2004 defense ranked fourteenth with 308 yards per game, making us the best defense in the division. With the prospects there to improve, the Merchantmen aim for a top 10 defense in 2005.
The pass defense was good last season, yet the yards pet attempt should go down by a yard or two next season. The expected improvement of the prospects on the defensive front and our safeties should help there. An upgrade at the cornerback position seems a requirement none the less. The team held four of sixteen opponents to 120 yards or less, a performance only tied or outdone by North Plainfield Plague’s 5 games of 120 yards or less.
For the rushing defense, the front seven seems already capable of stopping that, yet last season the game plan might have been a little problem there. The management has good hopes that the starters in 2004 can do better in 2005. The game against Columbus Architects last season gave good hopes as our defense held top running back Gerald Harris to 20 yards on 19 attempts, marking Harris’ season low, while he had eight 100-yard games, including 226 yards against Bordeaux.

Conclusion
Key of the off season is to retain services of at least two of three coaches/coordinators, extend contract of several starters, improve the offensive line, but ultimately acquiring a starting quarterback is the only goal for the 2005 off season. During the season, we hope to see the defense improve to a team capable of less or around 100 yards rushing in eight or more games and see the pass defense drop a yard on yards per attempt allowed. On offense, cohesion is a key thing, while the (new) starting quarterback should get emerged into the lineup, while the youngsters around Aubrey can grow into a league wide top 12 offense. Our top 3 of goals are:
1. Get a better quarterback
2. Keep at least two coaches/coordinators
3. Teach the defense to stop the run as well as the pass

MIJB#19

05-01-2004, 04:39 AM

Gossip News
Anonymus sources report that the popularity of Justin McDavid and his record setting season for passing yards and passing touchdowns amongst rookies, as well as the heroic fourth quarter almost comebacks, could keep McDavid seated as the starting quarterback for the 2005 season. It seems the Merchantmen plan to bench a possible drafted quarterback until the team is out of contention for the playoffs. Looking to last season, that could mean the rookie would be starting the last 6 games, including 5 in Maassluis.

Roster News
Defensive tackle Andrew King, leader of the defensive front seven, is out of contract with the Maassluis Merchantmen. Chances are slim that King is resigned for the 2005 season. King saw action in only 10 games, in which he made only 8 tackles, no sacks and was active in only 158 plays on defense. Andrew King's highlight of the season was a 73-yard fumble recovery for a touchdown in the road game against San Antonio in week 16 of the 2004 season, which then put the team back to trailing 8 points to the final score of a 14-22 loss on the road. Expectations are that eone of the backup linebackers Les Norton and Matt Sellers or defensive end Cecil Doney will become the new leader during the offseason.

MIJB#19

05-01-2004, 03:26 PM

Merchantmen Hire Dutchman As Head Coach
The Maassluis Merchantmen are pleased to announce the acquisition of Leroy van der Woude as the new head coach. Van der Woude replaces Arnold Blackburn, who's contract expired. Van der Woude signed a 2-year contract at $1.5 million a year. Van der Woude provides the Merchantmen a Dutchman as the new head coach, making this a unique partnership. General Manager M.IJ.B. praises Van der Woude's playcalling skills, which should be his main job in the 2005 season.

Merchantmen Trade Speedy Vargas
The Maassluis Merchantmen want to annouce the trade of wide receiver Frederic Vargas. Vargas, last season timed as second fatstest player in the league, with the same time as the fastest player, was a backup behind rookie Bryce Ewald in 2004. Chances were Vargas would remain in a backup role, yet was schedule to make $6.3 million in the next season. This saves the Merchantmen $4.4 million this season. Vargas will move to the North Plainfield Plague in a trade that gives North Plainfield draft picks in the 3rd, 4th, 6th and 7th round in exchange for North Plainfield's picks at #14, #50, #125, #221 and #222. Vargas moves to a division where the Rochester Lake Monsters are also playing, which team features Amos Collins as wide receiver, who was also drafted by the Merchantmen in the 2004 IHOF League Draft.

MIJB#19

05-01-2004, 05:50 PM

All M.IJ.B. Selection 2004
After seeing the annual awards handed out, the Maassluis Merchantmen general manager M.IJ.B. has announced his selection of 53 players that performed the best in the 2004 season. The selection includes the best players per team, and adds the 21 best remaining players to the total, depending on position. This year, the selection includes two players from the Maassluis Merchantmen, tight end Jerry Aubrey and offensive left tackle Harold Hurtado, who were awarded All IHOF First Team and All IHOF Second Team respectively.

The All MIJB selection 2004 includes:
QB1 - Donald Woods - Ann Arbor
QB2 - Joey Allen - Fairbanks
QB3 - Wayne Christopherson - Orlando
RB1 - Huey Gervais - Springfield
RB2 - Gerald Harris - Columbus
RB3 - Israel Mars - Orlando
PR1 - Rodger Mowery - RayCo
FB1 - Cole Coleman - Anaheim
FB2 - Thomas Boden - Bordeaux
TE1 - Jerry Aubrey - Maassluis
TE2 - Manuel Erickson - Boston
TE3 - Leroy Kirksey - Fairbanks
WR1 - David Marquis - Chesapeake
WR2 - Reggie Norris - Orlando
WR3 - Antonia Daggett - Fairbanks
WR4 - Seymour Barber - Stillwater
C1 - Michael Perez - Asheville
C2 - Brian Robichaud - Orlando
G1 - Rex Synder - Astoria
G2 - Adam Greer - Paris
G3 - Gene Simmons - Rochester
G4 - Charles Trout - San Antonio
T1 - Dan Koehler - Frederick
T2 - Harold Hurtado - Maassluis
T3 - Randall Dunkin - Vicksburg
T4 - Donnell Parker - Anaheim
P1 - Michael Helgeson - Boulder
K1 - Carrol Walz - Gothenburg
DE1 - Cris Richardson - Georgia
DE2 - Dillon Sumpter - Conyers
DE3 - Joe 'Mad Cow' Holstein - Outer Banks
DE4 - Erwin Baranowski - Asheville
DT1 - Walt Spangler - Minnesota
DT2 - Barton Garcia - Conyers
DT3 - Myles Halliburton - Columbus
DT4 - Greg Lehr - San Luis Obispo
ILB1 - Joe Teeters - Paris
ILB2 - Jeffry Boggs - Fairbanks
ILB3 - Leland Moorehead - Leesburg
ILB4 - Barney Pascoe - Frederick
OLB1 - Barney Sykes - Columbus
OLB2 - Danny McDuffie - Asheville
OLB3 - Ron Larson - Syracuse
OLB4 - James Stoker - Tucker
CB1 - Phillip Shumway - San Antonio
CB2 - Clarence Whyte - RayCo
CB3 - James King - Fort Worth
CB4 - Merle Chumley - Brooklyn
S1 - Milo Epperson - Outer Banks
S2 - Benton Harness - Ann Arbor
S3 - Jordon Murdoch - North Plainfield
S4 - Jeffrey Hamlet - Asheville
KR1 - Shaun Steven - North Plainfield

MIJB#19

05-02-2004, 08:37 AM

Number One Pick Traded
After days of negotiating, the Maassluis Merchantmen management is proud to announce the acquisition of linebacker Ellsworth Thelen and four draft selections in the 2005 IHOF draft in the first two rounds from Astoria Heroes in a trade that cost us our selections in the first and second round at #1 and #33 respectively. This gives the merchantmen a young potential starter to strenghten the talented front seven on defense, while we also get the opportunity to add four in stead of two players in the top two rounds of the draft. After an earlier trade with North Plainfield plague, our team now ten draft selections in total being: #12, #14, #31, #44, #50, #63, #125, #129, #221 and #222.

General Manager Notes
To me it seems we gave up a little in the trade, yet getting a decent guy to strenghten our front seven now and to also get three draft selections in stead of one, we feel happy. The worst thing that can happen is that teh draft class eventually turns out to have a franchise quarterback type of player sitting ready, which would have been the only option for us to pick at #1 overall. And without knowing one would be available, we felt we shouldn't take the risk and let another team have the favor of selecting the latest super star player. Perhaps we can get a second tier quarterback with the #12 or #14 pick and we hope to improve the offensive line as well in the coming period.

MIJB#19

05-03-2004, 08:40 AM

Merchantmen Resign Lead Scout
The Merchantmen management is happy to announce to have agreed on a new three year contract with lead scout Brad McGarity. McGarity's contract had expired after the 2004 season, but now keeps the 61-year old in Maassluis until te 2007 IHOF season. Despite signing McGarity today and Leroy van der Woude as the new head coach, the Merchantmen are still negotiating with people to fill the vacancies at offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator.

MIJB#19

05-03-2004, 01:55 PM

Merchantmen Hire New Coordinators
The Merchantmen hired Rochester Lake Monsters' defensive coordinator Kim Johanssen as the new defensive coordinator. Johanssen has a good reputation along all position groups, is young at 36 years old and signed a 3-year contract at 350 thousand dollars a year. Also, the Merchantmen hired Spencer Opitz as the new offensive coordinator. Opitz, who has no experience at the IHOF, signed a 1-year cotract for 1.3 million dollars. Opitz has an excellent reputation in developing offensive linemen, a position we have needs in and we might try to upgrade in the draft. Which is where Opitz's other strenght comes in places, his ability to get the best out of young players. Earlier today, we said good bye to Arnold Blackburn and Jerome Hodges, who were head coach and offensive coordinator respectively in the 2004 season. Blackburn was hired by Bordeaux Vineyards as their new offensive coordinator, while Hodges moves back to the States, to become the Tucker Tigers' defensive coordinator. The Merchantmen management offered these men the same jobs in Maassluis, though being sort of a demotion, but at a better paid contract. Sadly both decided to go for more money elsewhere, but the Merchantmen management will step over this and give all faith to the new head coach, Leroy van der Woude, and coordinators Opitz and Johannsen.

MIJB#19

05-03-2004, 02:18 PM

Gossip News
Our anonymus sources report that the merchantmen have declared war on the Bordeaux Vineyards for signing away Arnold Balckburn as offensive coordinator. Also, the Tucker Tigers players should watch their food when playing at Maassluis in week 5 of the regular season. The Tigers signed away Jerome Hodges as defensive coordinator, while the Merchantmen management seemed to have big plans with Hodges and the young defense.

MIJB#19

05-04-2004, 04:09 AM

Merchantmen Acquire OT Wilson Grimaldo for FS Randall Smith
The Maassluis Merchantmen management are happy to announce the conclusion of trade talks with the Paris Musketeers. The Merchantmen have acquired 32-year odl offensive right tackle Wilson Grimaldo, who is signed through the 2009 season. In return, the Musketeers get starting free safety Randall Smith, who led the Merchantmen in interceptions and also was the main punt returner in Maassluis. Additional, the Musketeers get the earlier acquired second round draft picks at #50 and #63 overall, Maassluis' 5th round pick at #129 overall and Maassluis' 7th round selection in the 2006 draft, while Maassluis get Paris' 7th round pick in the 2005 draft at #206 overall. This trade provides the Merchantmen with a major upgrade in the pass protection and run blocking, while the Musketeers open up needed cap space and improve their secondary. The Merchantmen opened up the cap space to acquire Grimaldo by trading away WR Frederic Vargas earlier this offseason. Grimaldo is the second offensive tackle taken in the first round of the initial league draft that Maassluis have acquired in a trade, Harold Hurtado joined the Merchantmen before the 2004 season in a trade with Rochester Lake Monsters. The Merchantmen now have 46 players signed after trading away WR Vargas and acquiring SLB Ellsworth Thelen before this trade, while they also hold 8 draft selections at #12, #14, #31, #44, #125, #206, #221 and #222 overall.

Nyarlahotep

05-04-2004, 03:21 PM

Glad to see this came back strong after a brief hiatus.

MIJB#19

05-05-2004, 06:06 AM

Wow, "we" have readers. :)

Roster Overview
Below is our current roster with the number of years players have left on their contract and their cap value in 1000s, noting that the cap is set at 78.6M (78600K).

<TABLE cellSpacing=0 cellPadding=2 width=607 border=0><TBODY><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>Player
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>Yrs
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>Cap (in K)
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Overview
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>QB McDavid, Justin
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>910

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>McDavid set rookie record in 2004 in passing yards and touchdowns. McDavid is popular with the fans, yet we don't see him as a franchise quarterback. We hope to resign McDavid for a lot of years in a role as second stringer.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>QB Shepard, Antoine
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>fa
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Shepherd is unrestricted, meaning we'll wait until late in free agency on a decission to resign him. In Maassluis, Shepherd is unlikely to ever be more then emergency quarterback.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>QB Snider, Calvin
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>310

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Snider will be our emergency quarterback in the 2005 season. He has to improve to be resigned in the 2006 offseason.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>RB Harris, Randy
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>5

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>3070

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Harris looks like a top10 running back league wide. In 2004 he managed to score only 3 touchdowns, all coing in just one game. It did earn him an untied single game record after one season in the IHOF.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>RB Kinney, Seth
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>fa
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Kinney won't be resigned until the end of free agency, and only if we haven't found better options.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>RB Page, Kyle
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>fa
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Page is a guy we would like to keep. Yet, won't be resigned until the end of free agency, and only if we haven't found better options.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>RB Smith, Jonathan
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>2

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>1440

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Smith is a quality backup rusher. He has two years left in his contract to show he's really the worthy second man in a system that should see more rushing in 2005.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>FB Burger, Mark
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>2

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>1950

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Burger is the most popular player on the roster. He's still a backup, yet after training camp he might steal Lopez' job. We hope to extend his contract very soon.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>FB Lopez, Vincent
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>800

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Lopez is a top10 fullback. We hope to get two more years out of him, providing he signs a contract extension.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>TE Aubrey, Jerry
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>1440

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>All IHOFer Aubrey has a year or two left before being replaced. Aubrey was and is a key element in the passing game.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>TE Reiser, Jim
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>2

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>770

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Reiser is our future star receiver. We hope to sign him to a long contract next offseason.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>TE Winfield, Ethan
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>310

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Winfield is unlikely to get a new contract soon. He has the 2005 season to prove his skill.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>WR Arnett, Arnulfo
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>fa
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Arnett could be our kick return if we resign him. Arnett is aiming to be our new receivers leader, yet we fear he can't do much in that role.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>WR Ewald, Bryce
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>2

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>1150

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Ewald is our star receiver. We hope to lenghten his stay here. Ewald is our choice for rookie of the year.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>WR Marshall, Raul
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>2

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>1150

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Marshall seems to lack the skills to be a starter.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>WR Monti, Gregory
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>1280

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Monti is a decent receiver. We hope to extend his stay.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>C Carranza, Julio
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>310

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Carranza lacks the skills to start, we fear. We wait with giving him a better contract.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>C Schwartz, Tom
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>310

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Schwartz is a backup player at best. We are not certian about his future here for now
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>G Burdett, David
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>550

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Burdett showed some skill in 2004, yet he doesn't seem to be a top60 guard in the league.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>G McDaniel, Devin
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>McDaniel has 2005 to show he deserves to stay.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>G Nellums, Darrin
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>310

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Nellums has to do really well in training camp and the regular season to get an extension.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>G Young, Albert
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>310

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Young has been a troubled player. We doubt he will ever be starter material.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>T Dudley, Willie
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Dudley is a dud. Seriously, he won't get much better then a backup.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>T Fontenot, Jeff
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Fontenot should look to Grimaldo this year. If he learns enough, he could earn himself a contract extension.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>T Grimaldo, Wilson
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>5

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>6000

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Grimaldo will be our anchorman on the offensive line. We hope he plays like the potential All IHOFer he is.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>T Hurtado, Harold
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>3

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>3820

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>All IHOF Second Teamer Hurtado is still the leader on the line.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>T Malave, Russell
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Malave should look to Grimaldo and learn a lot this training camp. We hope he turns into a quailty backup soon.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>P Corrales, Roscoe
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>690

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Corrales is a decent punter. We are still uncertain about extending his contract.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>K Coles, Cary
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>310

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Coles gets a year to prove his skill. If he does well, he'll be resigned in 2005.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>DE Chapa, Deon
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>5370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Chapa had an injury plagued season. We hope he perfoms well in a rotation system. We wish to extend his contract soon.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>DE Doney, Cecil
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>3

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>3730

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Doney was shopped, but not sold. Now we're sold on him and Doney will have a key role in our pass rush rotation.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>DE Lake, Geoff
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>fa
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Lake's days are over in Maassluis. Sadly for him he's a restricted free agent, making it impossible for him to move teams before the draft.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>DE McKeehan, Junior
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>fa
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>McKeehan fits our rotation system. We hope to resign him for a few seasons.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>DE Wells, Harold
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>6890

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Wells is who we build on for the future. He'll get a longer contract this offseason.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>DT Bryant, John
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>2

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>4060

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Bryant is questionable as a starter, yet as a backup he's a fine player.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>DT Gomez, Charles
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>5

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>9600

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Gomez makes a lot of money, so we hope to renegotiate his contract. Gomez' skills are clear and he will be our main man on the line.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>DT Jacke, Stanley
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Jacke is a decent backup, yet we are holding off to give him a better contract.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>DT King, Andrew
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>fa
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>King was the front seven leader in 2004, yet had little game action. We might let him walk in free agency.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>ILB Cluff, Cody
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>790

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Defensive Rookie of the Year Cluff will get a long contract this offseason. We hope Cluff will use the great line in front of him to get those opponent running backs a little more in 2006.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>ILB Sellers, Matt
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Sellers has a year to earn a new deal. His potential looks good, yet chances on becoming a starter are slim.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>OLB Ellsworth, Thelen
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>660

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Ellsworth is new to the mix and we hope he turns out to be a quality strong side linebacker. We offer him a better contract this offseason.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>OLB Kershner, Mike
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>760

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Kershner will get a better deal really soon. The converted midlinebacker should team up with Cluff to form a monster duo behind the defensive line.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>OLB Norton, Les
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Norton is a trouble maker. We might get rid of him soon.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>OLB Sasa, Sam
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>810

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Sasa will drop back on the depth chart. We are not determined about his future yet.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>OLB Silvan, Britt
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Silvan made some impact last season, yet we are not comvinced about his skills.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>CB Alston, Gus
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Alston should fear for his job. We hope to upgrade the secondary, making him expendable.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>CB Kinney, Zach
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>310

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Kinney is in a improve or get cut situation. The training camp will be his time to flame.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>CB Preciado, Dennis
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>1650

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Preciado will be offered a contract extension. If he signs, we hope he can be a starter for a couple of seasons.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>CB Schwartz, C.J.
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>2

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>310

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Schwartz has to show his potential in the offseason to be a roster member in the regular season.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>CB Turner, Earl
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>2

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>1000

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Turner is signed to an expensive contract. We are yet undetermined about his future.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>S Francis, Percy
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>710

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Francis will be the starting free safety after the departure of Randall Smith. We hope to see Francis show he's worth the extension we offer him.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>S Gilmore, Lincoln
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>2

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>370

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Gilmore is young, yet will get the 2005 season to earn a better contract.
</TD></TR><TR><TD vAlign=top width="24%" height=17>S Stevens, Graham
</TD><TD vAlign=top width="5%" height=17>1

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="12%" height=17>310

</TD><TD vAlign=top width="59%" height=17>Stevens is our only backup safety, which means he'll be around for a longer time.
</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

MIJB#19

05-05-2004, 08:12 AM

Some Special Dynasty Reporter Talk
I start to think this dynasty report isn't representing the fun I hade in trade negotiations that worked and those that didn't work out. Negotiating has been the best experience as of yet in the IHOF to me.

The trade for the #1 pick, where the Astoria Heroes GM crowned himself winner of the trade, but with the draft class revealed the #1 pick seems lesser valuable, the fun of the smash talk has faded. In the end, picking at #12 AND #14, plus getting a top OT worth a #1 pick, my team has improved more then I could imagine at the season end, despite knowing I'd have the #1 pick. Knowing the owners on the other end of the table I shaked hands with after finalizing trade talks where happy too, this game is really fun.
But finding out I have traded away 2 of the top10 WR in the league in the past offseasons, knowing I could have kept them and still traded other WRs, I feel I can still improve my negotiating skills. For example, I traded a potential top10 DT for an above average CB with the eventual 2004 champions...

Second, I have a lot of thoughts that don't go into the thread because they are my plans and giving them away wouldn't seem smart. Even if I post them delayed, since my team seems to be in a shape of being a contender in 2006 or 2007, meaning it would take at least a month or 4 before I could reveal my current strategy.

For example, I couldn't have posted that I wanted to get rid of the #1 before the draft class was revealed BEFORE finalising the deal with Astoria, yet that would probably have cost me if their GM had seen this thread...

The dynasty report will continue, the Merchantmen are in the building process and the draft could provide some of the needed upgrades at QB, C, G, DT, LB, CB, S and the returning duties.

MIJB#19

05-05-2004, 08:57 AM

Gossip News
With the draft class revealed, the Maassluis Merchantmen are said to go on with Justin McDavid as their starting quarterback. Draft class evaluation pundits have said the upcoming draft class lacks quarterbacks who can feel the Merchantmen's main need. Fear of losing fans has been an issue too. The Merchantmen have been shopping around with future super fullback Mark Burger, who is the fans' number one player. With McDavid closely as popular, the Merchantmen need to keep one of them on the field. With Vince Lopez still around, Burger is unlikely to be the star on offense. Maybe the Merchantmen will be aggressive and trade up from #14 or #12 to be sure to draft quarterback Mark Hudson.

Dutch Blood In Draft Class
The Merchantmen have tracked down five players in this years draft class who are said to have Dutch blood running through their veigns. Cornerback Bert Kamstra attended Minnesota and has a burea rating of 2.0. Kamstra ran the 40-yard dash in 4.59 seconds and is expected to go undrafted. Kamstra currently lives in Cassopolis in Michigan. Center Max Warren is graded as the third best center in the draft. Warren attended Tulane and has a bureau rating of 6.2. Warren will likely be drafted in the second or third round. Top rated kicker Edward Wilkes attended Alabama. Wilkes scored high on the Solecismic test and hopes to be a starting kicker in 2005 in the IHOF. Quarterback Tim Wilkes played for Miami in his college period. He hopes to get drafted, and has good odds to go in one of the lower rounds. Wilkes has a bureau rating of 3.0. Safety Terry Kuiper graduates from Canisius college. Kuiper has a bureau rating of 3.8 and scored 30 points in the Solecismic Test. Kuiper will likely be drafted in the fourth round. Whether the Merchantmen will bring one of these guys back to their roots is questionable. The Merchantmen lack the draft picks to select one of the Wilkes or safety Kuiper, while Kamstra seems not ready to play at IHOF football level. Center Max Warren could be an option with the draft selection in the second round at #44 overall, especially with their need to upgrade the heart of the offensive line.

MIJB#19

05-05-2004, 04:40 PM

Merchantmen Extend And Renegotiate
The Merchantment management is happy to announce that we have agreed on contract renewal with twentyfour players. Most important were contract extensions to defensive end Harold Wells, quarterback Justin McDavid, defensive rookie of the year Cody Cluff, All IHOF tight end Jerry Aubrey and renegotiated contracts with offensive tackle Wilson Grimaldo, defensive tackle Charles Gomez. wide receiver Arnulfo Arnett and defensive tackle Andrew King were free agents and also signed a new contract.
The complete list of player signing new contracts, longer cotracts or renegotiated contracts is:
quarterback Justin McDavid, running back Jonathan Smith, fullbacks Mark Burger and Vincetn Lopez, tight ends Jerry Aubrey and Jim Reiser, wide receivers Arnulfo Arnett, Bryce Ewald, Raul Marshall, Gregory Monti, offensive tackle Wilson Grimaldo, punter Roscoe Corrales, defensive ends Deon Chapa, Junior McKeehan and Harold Wells, defensive tackles John Bryant, Charles Gomez and Andrew King, linebackers Cody Cluff, Mike Kershner, Sam Sasa and Ellsworth Thelen, cornerback Dennis Preciado and safety Percy Francis.

MIJB#19

05-06-2004, 06:21 AM

Merchantmen In Cap Hell Next Season
After the changing of contracts with twentyfour players, the Merchantmen moved from fourth worst cap situation to second best cap situation at 17 million under the cap. The cap situation for the Merchantmen seems safe, yet with the upcoming draft there will be some expensive additions to the roster. But a bigger problem is the cap situation for the 2006 season. That season, the salary cap is expected to be around 80 million dollars and the Merchantmen are projected at 76 million dolars with 33 players under contract, excluding the draft picks for the 2005 IHOF draft. General manager M.IJ.B. is confident: "Yes, we could have to make some tough choices next offseason, yet, for the 2007 season our cap situation will have a much better head start." The biggest concern should be the lack of a starting quarterback, despite the popularity of Justin McDavid, he's already been called "Fumblin' Justin" by the management. General manager M.IJ.B. defends his project playcaller: "We built our system around Justin. Sadly he fumbled a little too much, but we are confident he will learn to avoid those. Don't forget he threw for 19 touchdowns, which was a top ten performance in the IHOF, especially on an offense that ranked 22nd league wide in points and in total yards." Still, the Merchantmen simply lack the cap space to acquire a franchise quarterback in 2006, so it's either this year or 2007. Newly acquired offensive tackle Wilson Grimaldo responded: "At Paris, we had Fabian Parker, one of the most talented passers in the game. Things just didn't click, while in Maassluis things seemed to click, yet the guys lacked experience. With the young guys a year older and me on the team, this offense will go places. I'll do my best to help McDavid or any other quarterback to get the time to make his plays." Still, the problem of a big cap hit in the 2006 season won't be solved easily, contract extensions to several players mean they have two signing bonuses counting against the cap and have a significant higher base salary then in the 2005 season. The Merchantmen's building process has only begun, yet they have manouvred themselves in a deadlock for 2006.

MIJB#19

05-06-2004, 01:11 PM

Merchantmen Add Two Safeties And Mentor Defensive End
To address the gap at safety, the Maassluis Merchantmen have signed Wiley McGhee and Richard Muller as free agents. McGhee played for Asheville Axemen, where he started 16 games in which he made 77 tackles, 2 interceptions and defended 12 passes. McGhee should fill the gap at strong safety created by the trade of Randall Smith. Muller was a backup at Leesburg Generals, the team now named Miami Sharks, where he made 24 tackles, 1 interception and defended 6 passes in 16 games. The Merchantmen also added defesive end Albert Bernardo to the roster. Bernardo is concidered a mentor for defensive ends and should be a great teacher for the four other ends playing in Maassluis. Bernardo played for Springfield Isotopes in 2005 in 16 games, starting 5 of those, and made 18 tackles and 2.5 sacks. Bernardo's highlight of the season was a fumble he recovered for a touchdown in a 20-10 victory at Leesburg.

General League News
In the past weeks, some teams have changed names and owners. A list of changes:
Boulder Bulldogs - changed name to Boulder Blizzard
Columbus Architects - changed owners in 2004 with TRO replacing Daimyo
Leesburg Generals - changed owners with Sfl_cat replacing Subby
Leesburg Generals - changed name to Miami Sharks
Stillwater Dynamite - changed owners in 2004 with Buccaneer replacing TroyF
Stillwater Dynamite - changed name to Telluride Outlaws

MIJB#19

05-07-2004, 03:58 AM

Merchantmen Trade Up From #14 To #6
The Maassluis Merchantmen management is happy to annnounce having agreed on a deal with the Springfield Isotopes in a trade that moves the Maassluis Merchantmen up from #14 to #6 overall in the upcoming draft. In this trade, the Merchantmen give up a second round pick at #44 overall and their second round pick in 2006. In return, the Merchantmen receive the Isotopes' third and fourth round selections in the 2007 draft. General manager M.IJ.B. commented on rumors that trading up seemed unnecesary as the Merchantmen still hold the #12 pick: "We do, but we have some big needs and want to address as much needs as possible in the draft. What if our potential guys are gone at #12 and we have two selections coming up where we can't address our needs? We can't let that happen." The Merchantmen's move surprised people around the league, especially since the Merchantmen first traded out of the #1 spot in a trade that offered them the #12 and #44 overall with a starting linebacker. Now, they give up the #14 and #44 to move back up. Some experts believe the Merchantmen would use the #6 pick on safety Derrick Villagomez, despite the signing of free agents Wiley McGhee and Richard Muller to replace Randall Smith, who was traded to Paris Musketeers. Other players mentioned by the league sources are top quarterback Mario Hudson, center J.J. Burroughs, guard Luke Hayes and defensive tackle Joel Woodcock.

Merchantmen 2006 Cap Situation Getting Out Of Hand
After the addition of defensive end Albert Bernardo and safeties Wiley McGhee and Richard Muller, the Merchantmen's cap situation for the 2006 season seems to become a big problem. Some cap experts project them to be five million dollars over the cap with only 39 players on roster. The Merchantmen management was not willing to comment on the situation, as general manager M.IJ.B. was quoted: "The Merchantmen are always looking to the future, we will not be over the cap when the 2006 season kicks off." All could be, but in the mean time the Merchantmen are openly shopping their draft selections for the 2006 season. They already traded away their second round pick to Springfield and their seventh round pick to Paris. It could be a long offseason in Maassluis next season.

MIJB#19

05-07-2004, 10:52 AM

Merchantmen Add Draft Pick At #41 Overall
In an amazing move, the Maassluis Merchantmen acquired Forth Worth Fury's second round pick in this year's draft, which is the #41 overall. The Merchantmen gave away their second round pick in 2007, their fifth round pick in 2006 and the seventh round pick in this year's draft from Paris at #206 overall. General manager M.IJ.B. responded: "Key element in the trade will be our perfomance in the 2006 season. If we play well then, we traded away a low second round pick for a high pick and gave up a fifth and seventh rounder." All due respect, but the Merchantmen with a winning record in 2006? They have a serious cap problem coming up that season, plus they don't have a quarterback who can lead the team to victories. M.IJ.B.: "It's a matter of time. We'll get what we need this offseason, paste it together next offseason and we have aserious shot at the title in 2007." Of course, the Merchantmen have improved their draft situation this season with now the #6, #12, #31 and #41 on hand, yet they gave up future second rounders as well. Nice picks, but league experts call this year's draft class weak and giving away high picks in likely better drafts. Not to mention that the Merchantmen had six picks in the top two rounds not so long ago. M.IJ.B.: "We have additional picks in 2007 in the third and fourth round, those can be valuable by that time. We gave away picks to acquire Wilson Grimaldo and our goal remains as it has been from the start." What the goal is, M.IJ.B. was unwilling to give away, but it seems they want to get their future starters now and hope to keep all together next season and the year after.

MIJB#19

05-07-2004, 11:07 AM

Mock Draft For 2005 IHOF Draft
Our reporters have created a mock draft for the first round in this season's IHOF amateur draft. Selections are based on gut feeling and needs. The draft order is up to date for after the third free agency stage. For the Merchantmen the mock draft below would mean the Dutchmen address needs at center and guard, but fail to address the biggest need at quarterback. Center J.J. Burroughs and guard Luke Hayes are the best players at their positions in the draft, while Fernando Weaver fills the gap left after the Merchantmen traded away Frederic Vargas, while Gregory Monti has lost his speed over injuries. The first round from our mock draft:
1 Astoria - DE Peter Hutton
2 San Luis Obispo - WR Tyrus Shaye
3 Boulder - QB Mario Hudson
4 Paris - OT Earl Zeigler
5 Georgia - QB Ron Lyle
6 Maassluis - OG Luke Hayes
7 Anaheim - S Derrick Villagomez
8 Minnesota - OT Patrick Weber
9 Fort Worth - DT Grant Major
10 Rochester - DE Earnest Sanford
11 Gothenburg - OT Jake Griffith
12 Maassluis - OC J.J. Burroughs
13 Outer Banks - DT Joel Woodcock
14 Springfield - WR Stan Butler
15 Syracuse - RB Kurt Basso
16 Miami - CB Taj Wayne
17 Conyers - OT Nolan Bradford
18 Vicksburg - RB Heath Barber
19 Tucker - QB Leonard Lyon
20 Miami - S Duane Kolb
21 Boston - FB Alfred Dingle
22 RayCo - OT Victor Owens
23 Brooklyn - OC Max Warren
24 Orlando - DE B.J. Ingram
25 Columbus - CB Ron Huffman
26 Asheville - DE Terrell Rodgers
27 Frederick - QB Jim McNown
28 San Antonio - DT Levon Stuart
29 Fairbanks - OT Ernest Browning
30 Ann Arbor - OT Neal Cheever
31 Maassluis - WR Fernando Weaver
32 Fairbanks - DE Bryce Bourgeois

MIJB#19

05-07-2004, 03:27 PM

Gossip News - Locker Room Riot Coming Up?
Anonymus sources report that new addition defensive end Albert Bernardo, who left Springfield for the worst team in the league, has been putting a revolution in the locker room. It is reported that Bernardo is luring at a role as defensive front leader when Andrew King is cut after training camp, which is a likely option. King has been a trouble maker with starting linebacker Mike Kershner. However, it seems that promising defensive end Deon Chapa doesn't like Bernardo as being his mentor. Head coach Leroy van der Woude commented: "We have yet to go into training and already people see our players cockfighting. Look, this is part of being human, you can't expect people to go along well with everyone around. Bernardo is an excellent addition to the team. I should know, I had season tickets last season in Maassluis." Despite Van der Woude's confidence, we fear a revolution will take place as King's days near the world port are counted, he could be sailing home pretty soon.

Irregular Interviewing With: Justin McDavid
Ogden, Utah, the hometown of a record setting IHOF player. Justin McDavid made quite an entrance in the International House Of Football as the quarterback of the league's worst team, the Maassluis Merchatmen. Experts point to McDavid's lack of talent as a passer, yet the guy outperformed other starting rookies in passing yards (2,904) and touchdowns (19) in 15 starts. On the ground, McDavid added 322 yards and 2 more scores. But McDavid's name was set in the league in a different role, McDavid had a nose of fumbling at his team's half of the field and put up a league high of 13 fumbles. Add 22 interceptions and you have Mr. Turnover, or as the McDavid haters call him: "Fumblin' Justin". Despite the numerous losses, McDavid has stolen the hearts of Merchantmen fans, McDavid was polled as one of the most popular players on the team, third to do-it-all fullback Mark Burger and hard-hitter linebacker Mike Kershner. What follows is the transcript of our short interview with McDavid.
Q (Questioner) - Justin, we'd like to start with the question everybody wants to know. You set two important passing records as a rookie, yet people only know you as Fumblin' Justin. Does it hurt a lot?
JM (Justin McDavid) - First of all, I didn't set those records on my own. Without guys like Jerry Aubrey and Bryce Ewald I probably would have never reached 2,900 yards or get over the one touchdown per game mark. I know I made mistakes in my rookie year, but I always thought that's what it's all about in your first year. You make a mistake, learn from it and get mentally stronger.
Q - Even with the losses lead by your fumbles?
JM - They never replaced me. I think people in the office are happy with me and I'll return them the favor by doing what I do best. I look what the defensive linemen do and react accordingly. It's my nature to best when we're in a 2nd and 15 situation. Of course with Randy, we hardly ever get there.
Q - Do the rumors of the team trading up in the draft to get Mark Hudson hurt you?
JM - No. Hudson is the best playcaller in this class. Teams will go after him, no matter what. It makes sense that people link the best quarterback with the losingest team in the league. I'll be confident to do better in camp and preseason. We'll see who's the number by then. Providing the management take him.
Q - Who would you pick?
JM - Me? How should I know? Playing home games in Europe means hardly watching a game of college football. All I know is that Lamar Perez and Jamie McDermit (fullback and tight end who are Texas Tech graduates like McDavid) had a great scouting combine.
Q - What's your take on the trading of picks?
JM - I heard it's part of Dutchmen, having to hassle and negotiate over everything. They say in the end they always get the best out of it. I hope they do, the better the picks, the better the new players are.
Q - And the addition of Wilson Grimaldo?
JM - Wilson is so big! I mean, he's 6'7", 342 pounds, but that's not all. Wilson has a great personalty, he's smart and very experienced. I know he liked the weather in Paris better, though, but overall I think he's willing to help this team reach the ultimate goal.
Q - Which is?
What do you think? Having a ring around your finger when you retire! We have a good group now. Great men on offense, a lot of potential on defense. The management aims for 2007, but I think Calvin (Snider, backup quarterback) is right, you have to win all the time.
Q - Will you be the starting quarterback by that time?
I wish. In this game, the future is hard to see. Just look at the rumors surrounding David Conti. A second year guy like me, leaguewide tagged as the future ruler of the league, guided his team to the AOC Championship as a rookie, but now they say he could be traded before the draft.
Q - You're well informed.
JM - The network is small, even when things happen overseas. Of course now I'm home in Utah. I can follow all the rumors in football land.
Q - But unlike Conti, you did signed a new contract. You're underpaid for a starting quarterback!
Look at it this way: I got 1.5 million dollars as a signing bonus. That's a lot of money to have in the pocket. The coming five years I will get enough money to be able to retire and never have to work again.
Q - Sounds good.
JM - I want to play football! Right now, I will be starting in Maassluis. I know they might bring in other guys, but I don't see this team pick up so many guys over the next years that I won't be playing in Maassluis in say 2007. Plus, I'm not the kind of guy that loves to play in a different uniform every new season.
Q - Justin, thank you for your time. Good luck with the Merchantmen in the upcoming season.
JM - Thank you, too.

primelord

05-07-2004, 04:03 PM

You have me taking a FB with my first round pick???? :)

MIJB#19

05-07-2004, 04:50 PM

Merchantmen Management Presents: Offseason Overview
With the draft starting in three days and upgrading the roster through free agency basically impossible, the Merchantmen management has summed up and analyzed what five trades have brought in and costs us. The full list of tradeware is below, excluding draft picks that were traded in and later on traded away (for example the #14 pick overall acquired from Paris and later on traded to Springfield.):

Coming In
RT Wilson Grimaldo
SLB Ellsworth Thelen
1st round pick Spr (#6)
1st round pick Ast (#12)
1st round pick Tel (#31)
2nd round pick FtW (#41)
3rd round pick 2007 Spr
4th round pick 2007 Spr
4th round pick NPl (#125)
7th round pick SAo (#221)
7th round pick NPl (#222)

Going Out
WR Frederic Vargas
FS Randall Smith
1st round pick Maa (#1)
2nd round pick Maa (#33)
2nd round pick 2006 Maa
2nd round pick 2007 Maa
3rd round pick Maa (#65)
4th round pick Maa (#97)
5th round pick Maa (#129)
5th round pick 2006 Maa
6th round pick Maa (#161)
7th round pick Maa (#193)
7th round pick 2006 Maa

That's a long list of in's and out's, but what does it mean in general?
Let's scratch away what's basically worth the same, it leaves:
Coming In
RT Wilson Grimaldo
SLB Ellsworth Thelen
1st round pick Spr (#6)
1st round pick Spr (#12)

Going Out
WR Frederic Vargas
FS Randall Smith
1st round pick Maa (#1)
2nd round pick 2007 Maa
5th round pick 2006 Maa
6th round pick Maa (#161)

So in general, we added an impact player who should increase the quality of the OL significantly, added a young starting LB and acquired two draft picks that could turn into long term starters.

In return, we gave up WR Vargas, a potential starter who was too expensive to keep around, FS Smith who we tried to replace with the addition of two veteran free agents and 4 draft picks of which 2 can become a big deal of giving them up. the 2007 2nd rounder is hard to value as we hope to be a winning franchise by that time and make trading the that pick for the #9 in the second round worth it. The 5th and 6th rounder are also hard to value, you never know what it might turn into.

But mostly, we gave up the right to draft #1 overall. Looking at the draft class, the players worth the #1 are DE Hutton, DT Grant and WR Shyne. Those positions are not our biggest needs, so we should not be so sad about losing it.
Was trading the pick in advance good? Maybe not, we might have been able to get a lot more from a team desperate to land a DE, DT or WR, but down the road we feel happy to be not picking at #1, yet pick twice in the top 12, and also at #31 and #41 when there should be decent options for center and guard available.

In free agency, we added only players from other teams, of which only one is a real starter. Strong safety Wiley McGhee is our wild card for outperforming last year's starter Lincoln Gilmore.
Richard Muller probably can't fill the shoes of Randall Smith, but in a rotation with Percy Francis they migth be able to to together. Granted, we hoped to sign either Muller or McGhee, but we shouldn't be unhappy having both.
Albert Bernardo was a wild shot and adds our roster up to five defensive ends with a lot of talent. What makes him an intrueging pickup is his role as mentor at a relative low level of experience as a 6th year veteran.

Now what?
We have five pressing needs:
Quarterback, Center, Left Guard, Right Guard and Cornerback
What to do?
That will be the big question, yet the management has the plan more then ready to improve the roster to get the Merchantmen in a shot to go 6-10 or better. With other teams spying on our actions, we think to have confused the others enough by first trading into the first round at #14, next trading down from #1 to #12, but then trading up again from #14 to #6. We have set up our draft board for the whole draft, including our options for the picks late in the 7th round.
So?
Stay tuned and you'll find out what the Merchantmen management will do to improve the doormat of the IHOF!

MIJB#19

05-08-2004, 09:03 AM

Gossip News: Merchantmen In Market For Gene Simmons!
Our reporters managed to discover negotiations between the Maassluis Merchantmen and the Rochester Lake Monsters in a trade that should bring All IHOF guard Gene Simmons to Europe. It is a public secret that the Merchantmen have voted for Simmons as Offensive Player of the Year, while it's a known fact that the Merchantmen are actively seeking for guards to strengthen their offensive line. The management of neither team were available for comment, yet the good relations between the management of the two teams has never been denied. In the offseason prior to the 2004 season, the Merchantmen acquired All IHOF second team left tackle Harold Hurtado for who now is the Lake Monsters' best receiver. Rumors are that a possible trade would have included two first round picks. Gossip News will bring you more on this when we reveal new fact on this matter.

MIJB#19

05-08-2004, 09:15 AM

Merchantmen Management Deny Gene Simmons Trade Rumors
The Maassluis Merchantmen want to distinguish from the rumors spread around at FOFC (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/~fof/forums/showpost.php?p=463635&postcount=109) about the Merchantmen's interest in Rochester Lake Monsters' All IHOF guard Gene Simmons. The management advices fans of the Merchantmen and fans of other IHOF teams to forget everything the Gossip News sells. It's their job to spread lies. General manager M.IJ.B. will address the issue in a personal statement.
General manager M.IJ.B.: "On this matter there are four things to be said. First, the Lake Monsters have been parterns in trade talking over the course of time and we wish to keep them as good friends in trade talking. Last season's trade of Hurtado and Collins was successfull for both teams and we hope to be in the past too. Second, this offseason we've been very active in trade talking. So far we accomplished five trades, but have also seen talks endup fruitless. Third, Gene Simmons is a great player and I imagine any team in this league would want this player on their team. Yet, at this moment we can't give away information whether he's our main target to upgrade our team at the guard position. We cannot give information about whether we are in trade talks about this player, let alone give details on what we might have offered for him. Fourth, it is true that we voted for Simmons as Offensive Player of the Year. Reasoning behind is was our own statistical analysis on offensive lineman showing Simmons as the best in the league. Plus, we figured Joey Allen and Huey Guervais would go number one and two anyway. We thank you for your time."

MIJB#19

05-08-2004, 10:22 AM

Merchantmen Get Top Guard For Draft Picks
In a quick round of negotiations over night, the Maassluis Merchantmen agreed terms with the Orlando Knights to give the Merchantmen the rights of Alvin Causey, one of the top rated gaurds in the league. Causey is currently severly injured and by doctors projected out for 21 weeks with a torn deltiod muscle. In return, the Knights receive this year's #125 pick overall, a fourth rounder originally from North Plainfield, as well as the Merchantmen's third round picks in the 2006 and 2007 drafts. This trade could address the Merchantmen's need for a guard, barring Causey returns to his normal shape. Whether that is possible is yet to be seen, as the muscle in the top of the arm is important for a lineman to make blocks. General manaher M.IJ.B. was confident: "We are very hopefull in Causey's recovery. If he returns to his normal level, or at least to about 75%, he'll be a great guy to team up with Harold Hurtado and Wilson Grimaldo." Despite the injury, this move could give the Merchantmen the much wanted upgrade on the offensive line, additional to the trade for Grimaldo. A tough part in the deal is Causey's one-year cotract." M.IJ.B.: "We hope to convince Causey to sign a longer deal the day he arrives in Maassluis." However, with the expected terrible cap situation for the 2006 season, Causey could get the Merchantmen even further over the cap.

MIJB#19

05-09-2004, 05:40 PM

Merchantmen Sign Shepard And Page, Cut Norton
The Maassluis Merchantmen are happy to announce the longer stay of two backups in the backfield from last season. Quarterback Antoine Shepard and running back Kyle Page signed a new two-year contract to keep them around until the end of the 2006 season. In addition, the Merchantmen cut lineback Les Norton, who's position had become troublesome after the addition of Ellsworth Thelen and continueous arguements between defensive tackle Andrew King and Norton. Keeping around Shepard and Page makes it easier for the team to keep under the cap in 2006, as both signed close to minimum salaries for that season. It is expected that the Merchantmen management try to extend contracts of other backup players. Additionally, the Merchantmen hope to be able to settle a nice deal with guard Alvin Causey, who is expected to be out for the entire 2005 season and will be out of contract after that season. General manager M.IJ.B.: "Trading for Causey was a risk, but we are willing to take that risk for one of the best offensive linemen in the league." Signing Causey can be a problem after all, due to the 2006 cap problems.

Gossip News: Merchantmen Draft Options
We have reason to believe that the Merchantmen could select quarterback Mario Hudson if he's still available at the #6 pick overall. We acquired scouting reports from the Dutch team and have reason to believe hat they don't like the other options at quarterback, like Ron Lyle, Leonard Lyon and Jim McNown. Other names going around are safety Derrick Villagomez, cornerbacks Taj Wayne and Ron Huffman, and names of about every offensive lineman projected as a potential first or second round selection. Also don't be surprised if the Merchantmen just take the best player available at #12 overall, which could be one of the top running backs, Kurt Basso and Heath Barber. Plus, the Merchantmen are a team building on the defensive line, where the could still use an upgrade at the tackle position. Joel Woodock could fit in there...

MIJB#19

05-11-2004, 03:34 AM

Draft News: Merchantmen Trade Out Of #6 Overall
The Merchantmen have agreed to trade away the #6 pick to the Astoria Heroes, when the #5 pick was on the clock. The Heroes will also get defensive end Cecil Doney, while the Merchantmen get Astoria's first and second round picks in 2006, as well as the second and third rounders in 2005 from Georgia, which Astoria acquired through a trade that involved the #1 pick. The Merchantmen had one other serious trade offer at the same time going on. General manager M.IJ.B.: "True. The other offer could have helped us more, but we got at a point where both sides of the table were unwilling to add more to the trade. When the Astoria general manager got all excited, we just had to make the deal." In the end, the Heroes traded up to get safety Derrick Villagomez, yet the #5 pick got traded from Georgia to Boulder and the Blizzard made Villagomez their first draft selection. Eventually, the Heroes selected defensive tackle Major Grant. The management wants to make clear to the fans that things are still going as planned in the draft. M.IJ.B.: "They do. We can't give away our strategy, but the players we're hoping to acquire are all still there." On Maassluis possibly taking quarterback Mario Hudson: "We anticipated that Minnesota and Paris would pick OT Zeigler and Hudson, so Hudson was never an option at #6 to us. Only if he'd dropped to that pick, we'd have kept the #6, but when Hudson got picked, the #6 became less interesting to us and we decided to trade down." Despite the loss of the #6 pick, the Merchantmen still hold picks at #12, #31, #37 and #41 overall, while they added a first rounder in 2006 from Astoria, a team in a building process. M.IJ.B.: "Yes, we could go out there and try to trade into the first round again, but chances are slim we will be able to do so." So, the worst team in the league have made their mark at the draft as being active traders, but with the general manager having other commitments, the Merchantmen are likely to settle with the selections they have now. At least the #12 overall seems to be off the trading block.

MIJB#19

05-11-2004, 05:45 PM

Draft Day News: Merchantmen Select CB Tai Wayne
With the #12 pick overall, the Maassluis Merchantmen have selected Jacksonville cornerback Tai Wayne as their first player in the 2005 IHOF draft. The 5'8" Wayne ran a 40-yard time of 4.33 but is mostly selected because the Merchantmen needed a shutdown cornerback. Wayne should be an immediate starter on a pass defense that ranked in the top 12 league wide in 2004. Wayne's respected for his stamina, his man-to-man defense and he's also a hard hitter with good play analysis skills. With Wayne, the Merchantmen have addressed one of many needs on their team, but the draft isn't over yet. General manager M.IJ.B.: "Things are going well, though not as planned, but let's just say other teams are avoiding our projects thusfar." The Merchantmen didn't get QB Mario Hudson at #6 overall, but to M.IJ.B. that was no issue: "We had a deal with another team to deal the #6 if Hudson would reach that pick, but Paris would have never let that happen." So, what holes need to be filled? Will it be a center or a guard? And where is that franchise quarterback? Keep tuned and you'll know soon.

MIJB#19

05-12-2004, 07:35 PM

Draft Day News: Merchantmen Trade 2006 First Round Pick
After a set of negotiations, the Merchantmen management agreed terms with the San Antonio Volunteers to trade for the #28 selection overall in the 2005 IHOF Draft and San Antonio's fourth round pick for the Merchantmen's first round pick in 2006. The trade astonished onwers throughout the league as some see the Merchantmen as the league doormat and expect them to be going 5-11 at best, meaning the Merchantmen gae up a potential top 5 selection. General manager M.IJ.B.: "It might seem so, but we have gotten so much already in other trades, with the #25 on the clock and us knowing what Asheville would do at #26, we know for sure we can get one of our three late first round projects." On other fronts, the Merchantmen have acquired more selections for the 2006 season, meaning they've gone to six selections in the top four rounds in next year's draft. M.IJ.B.: "We tried to get rid of 2006 selections, but in the end, if we can get the guys we want this year, there's no reason to give up all we got in the numerous trades." The league astonished, the Merchantmen think they can get their piece of the puzzle at #28 overall. "Or at #31" as M.IJ.B. clearified.

MIJB#19

05-13-2004, 05:39 AM

Draft Day News: Merchantmen Get Four First Rounders
At the last picks in the 2005 IHOF Draft, the Maassluis Merchantmen added three players to their draft class. With the #28 pick overall, the Merchantmen added guard Butch "Bruce" White, a pick they acquired in a trade with San Antonio. At #31 overall, the Merchantmen acquired quaterback Leonard Lyon and then they traded up from #41 to #32 overall to select center Brant Heinrich. All in all, the last selections in the first round of the draft were dominated by the Merchantmen trading in there twice. General manager M.IJ.B. commented: "We tried to trade up to get Burroughs, the best player on the board since the #15 was on the clock but many attepmts failed and eventually he was picked one pick ahead of us. Still, we traded also up to got the White as the guard we wanted, and Lyon as our quarterback. We already had a deal with the Fairbanks Northstars depending on us getting Burroughs, but eventually we decided to do the deal with us getting Heinrich in stead." The Merchantmen management feel the addressed four gaps in the draft so far. Quarterback has been a questionmark despite Justin McDavid's decent performance in 2004. So has the offensive line been, but with White and Heinrich drafted, plus the trades for tackle Wilson Grimaldo and Alvin Causey, the offensive line could be build for the next three years. Wayne improves a so-so secondary that managed to be rated amongst the top 5 pass defenses league wide for most of the season. M.IJ.B.: "The draft is far from over, we still have selection up, but it is true that we are very pleased to have gotten a the second or third best options at quarterback, center and guard." For the 2006 season, the Merchantmen traded away their first round pick, but managed to get a second rounder for a fifth and seventh rounder, while they gave up their 2007 second rounder for a fourth rounder that year. M.IJ.B.: "Unlike we planned, our strategy was to use our 2006 selections this year, we got a better draft situation for 2006 and 2007 combined then at the start of the offseason."

Additional Roster Moves
We signed RB Roy Kesler and CB John Cole as free agents to 2-year deals and at minimum salaries in both seasons. Kesler could be a camp casualty, while Cole looks like a potential nickelback.

MIJB#19

05-13-2004, 05:53 AM

Exclusive: GM Review On First Round Of 2005 IHOF Draft
Well, the first round has finished, it's time to reveal some secrets behind Maassluis' First Round Drafting in the 2005 IHOF Draft.

What were our goals?
At the start of the offseason the Merchantmen had the following needs in order of importance:
* get a new offensive line
* get a starting cornerback
* get rid of overpaid backups
* upgrading the starting quarterback
* get a better outside linebacker

What was our plan?
To achieve the goals mentioned above, the following had to be done:
* try to acquire All IHOF guard Gene Simmons
* trade for enough picks to select 3 linemen
* get a cornerback, how was not important
* sign a free agent quarterback
* get a linebacker, how was not important

What happened?
* We got into a trade with North Plainfield. That trade got us the #14 pick overall and cost us backup WR Frederic Vargas, who was too expensive to keep around. We also tradsed up from #65 to #50 overall in the draft.
* We got into negotiations with Astoria for the #1 pick. Although neither side wanted to traded ahead of seeing the draft class, at some point both sides felt they had a steal and the deal got on. We got the linebacker we wanted, got the #12 overall, went up from #33 to #31 and got a late 2nd round pick.
* The draft class is revealed, the draft is deep at OL positions, especially OT, which is good for us to fill the gaps on the OL.
* Paris approach us and manage to convince us to trade for Wilson Grimaldo. Eventually we gave up the #50 and #63 picks and our important free safety Randall Smith.
* We renewed contracts with about 20 starters and quality backups to keep them around for 2 or more years.
* We signed two free agent safeties and a mentor defensive end (making one of our other DEs tradable).
* I decided that trading away all the 2006 picks to improve our team in the 2005 draft could benefit us.
* We traded up from #14 to #6 with Springfield and gave up 2nd rounders in that trade for 3rd and 4th rounders in 2007. It put us in a position where we could pickup QB Mario Hudson.
* We picked up Fort Worth's #41 overall by giving up our 2007 2nd rounder and two more later round picks.
* Rumors were spread about our interest for Gene Simmons.
* We traded for Alvin Causey from Orlando, who is out for the 2005 season, giving up two 3rd rounders and a 4th rounder.
* Negotiations for Gene Simmons failed.
* The draft started.
* Mario Hudson was picked #4 overall, making the #6 no longer useful. Our other options G Hayes and C Burroughs could be get at #12 overall. Leonard Lyon becomes our potential aim at QB.
* We traded the #6 overall and our expendable backup DE Cecil Doney for Astoria's 2006 1st and 2nd rouders, as well as the #37 and #69 overall
* Negotiations for Gene Simmons failed, again.
* G Luke Hayes was selected, moving Butch White into #1 for guard at our draft board.
* Negotiations for Gene Simmons failed, for a third time.
* We picked up cornerback Tai Wayne, who we wanted to get here, knowing center is not a need position in this league.
* We tried to trade into the mid first round to get C Burroughs, offering Astoria's 1st and 2nd round picks in 2006, but no deal was made.
* Brooklyn picked up our second option at center in Max Warren, leaving Burrough on the board.
* We tried to trade into the mid first round to get C Burroughs, offering Astoria's 1st and 2nd round picks in 2006, but no deal was made.
* We established a possible deal with Fairbanks involving their #32 pick and our #41 pick.
* A conditional trade for Asheville's #26 involving our #31 was established, if DE B.J. Ingram would go #25 overall.
* We traded our future 1st rounder to get the #28 overall from San Antonio to pick G White or QB Lyon, knowing who the #26 pick would be.
* We trade the #37 pick for a 2nd rounder in 2006 with Vicksburg, we figured our #37 could not land us one of the 3 guys we aim for in C Burroughs, G White and QB Lyon.
* The trade was cancelled with Columbus picking up WR Weaver.
* Frederick picked C Burroughs at #27 overall. Brant Heinrich moves up to our #1 center.
* We selected guard Butch White at #28 in stead of #31.
* We established a conditional trade with Fairbanks depending on Ann Arbor's selection, the #32 and #96 from Fairbanks for our #41 and #69.
* Ann Arbor picked OT Nolan Bradford, meaning the Fairbanks trade was finalised.
* We selected QB Lyon and center Heinrich.

Total review?
* I think we filled our gaps at C, G, G, T, OLB and CB.
* We still could use an upgrade at DT and QB Lyon is far from a sure thing to us, QB McDavid has the odds against him, but he could remain as our #1 QB.
* We have seven selections in the 2006 draft, and seven in 2007. In total we turned a 5th and 7th rounder into a 4th rounder.
* Our 2006 cap situation is expected to be at 10M over the cap with 48 players signed, including rookies from the 2005 and 2006 drafts.

Conclusion?
Well, I think we did well with the trading and drafting. We turned the #1 overall in every round into 4 possible starters and we still have the last pick in round 3 and two late 7th rounders. For some reason, we ended up with as much picks and possibly as much value of the picks for the upcoming drafts. The starting role gaps are close to addressed, yet my confidence in QB Lyon is a relative low. He looks like a good QB, but I've yet to see he fits our system like McDavid did. The thing is, we needed to do something, QB Lyon provides us an alternative at QB, which we didn't have with our backups Antonio Shepard and Calvin Snider. I think the team has been upgraded. The loss of just three players can be worked with, WR Vargas was an overpaid backup to me, though he's concidered a top10 talent at his position. DE Doney was also an overpaid backup. Only FS Randall Smith will be missed, but Miller and McGhee, our FA pickups, should improve our secondary.

MIJB#19

05-14-2004, 03:11 AM

Gossip News: Lyon Riding Bench In 2005
Our sources report that the Merchantmen are seriously concidering to bench their first round quarterback Leonard Lyon for the 2005 season. As we understand, the management is concerned about the level of play the rookie linemen Brante Heinrich and Butch White will bring in. And with Causey out for the season, the team expects Lyon to hit more then 2 sack per game, even with the addition of Wilson Grimaldo and the presence of All IHOF second team tackle Harold Hurtado. It's also a common known fact that Justin McDavid, last season's starter, who recently singed a 5-year contract in Maassluis, is one of the best quarterbacks in the league in avoiding getting sacked. He should be able to do better behind a crappy pass protection. But what if McDavid breaks out and lives up to his rookie year stats? The Merchantmen have themselves locked in a quarterback controversy. Then again, they were the league's doormat in 2005 and they publically called their rookies Lyon, White and Heinrich second and third choices. We could see another year of a one-dimensional offense and a top ten defense in the heart of the World Port.

MIJB#19

05-15-2004, 11:20 AM

Draft Day News: Merchantmen Pick WR Henson At End Of Round 3
The management of the Maassluis Merchantmen is happy to announce the selection of wide receiver Devin Henson with the last pick on round three, the #96 overall. At the absence of general manager M.IJ.B. the team increased the number of wide receivers on roster to five. The selection of Henson could mean the last days of Arnulfo Arnett are counted. Henson is a return specialist who could also serve as a #4 wide receiver. Arnett became receivers leader after the trading of Frederic Vargas, yet who will take his place is yet to be seen. All IHOF tight end Jerry Aubrey is the experienced player on the group, but he is a typical sidekick player. With the selection of Henson, the Merchantmen have only two selections of their seven still on the board, being the #220 and #221 overall at the end of round seven.

MIJB#19

05-15-2004, 02:44 PM

Gossip News: Merchantmen GM Chickens Out Of Draft And Franchise?
Our sources report an upcoming coupe in the Merchantmen organization, especially general manager M.IJ.B.'s job could be at stake, after the Dutch IHOF team traded their remaining two draft selections in the seventh round for a sixth rounder from North Plainfield Plague in 2006. We have reason to believe that the Merchantmen general manager has lost the skill of hard negotiating and still getting a trade done, like the deals with Astoria Heroes to trade out of the #1 and #6 overall, the trade up from #14 to #6 overall and the trades with Paris Musketeers and Orlando Knights to get Wilson Grimaldo and Alvin Causey from the respective teams. The signals were clear when the Merchantmen traded their potential #1 overall in 2006 to get a powerless guard and when they convinced the Fairbanks Northstars to trade for the #32 overall, which was a huge win situation for the league champions. Some people already see a potential retirement coming up from one of the youngest general managers in the league after the 2005 season. M.IJ.B. has seen the failed negotiations to get All IHOF guard Gene Simmons from the Rochester Lake Monsters as his personal loss and has the team sadled up with a serious cap problem in the 2006 season. Besides the failed trade talks for Simmons, we also suspect that the plausible trade with San Antonio Volunteers is a key element in his stay. Also, M.IJ.B. renegotiated with so many players that the Merchantmen are paying an immense capital on signing boni. Even keeping the current Euro-Dollar exchange. We believe that the Merchantmen are doomed to be the league doormat for another year, have a new general manager by the end of the season and become a serious playoff contender by 2007 under the new command.

MIJB#19

05-15-2004, 03:02 PM

Merchantmen Deny Dismissal Of GM
The organization of the Maassluis Merchantmen want to explicitly deny a potential dismissal of their general manager after the 2005 season. General manager M.IJ.B. wants to make clear that the Gossip News, which spreads it's lies around at FOFC (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/~fof/forums/showpost.php?p=468606&postcount=120), know nothing about a potential change in the front office. M.IJ.B. reacts on the several implications.
2006 First Rounder - The trade was made in our confidence that we can be a contender in the 2005 season. If we win eight games, nobody will complain about the trade and the trade will be concidered a smart move, especially if Butch White turns into an impact offensive lineman.
Gene Simmons - It's no secret that we would love to see Gene Simmons play in orange-white-and-blue, but it just wasn't ment to be. We reached an impasse in three negotiations with the Lake Monsters and that was that. No hard feelings, they have the best lineman in the league and should get as much as possible for him. Besides, we got Alvin Causey and Butch White in stead.
Bad Draft - Hard to say. We lost the battle for J.J. Burroughs, but hardly can't blame ourselves other then not picking him #12 overall. Maybe we should have picked him at #6 or the original #14 overall, but we couldn't ignore the potential of Mario Hudson dropping and seeing a team come up with an offer you can't refuse. Wayne will help out team to shut out the opponent's receivers, Heinrich and White complete our offensive line and Leonard Lyon provides us a potential franchise quarterback. Devin Henson gives us a return specialist and put more pressure on Monti and Ewald after the trade of Vargas to do their best to earn the starting jobs.
Signing Boni - It's true that we pay a lot now, but next season we hardly have to pay singing boni as we have 49 players under contract, including the eight draft picks we have. We could trade picks to free cap space as well as lowering salaries. Remember that the 2006 cap hit is a product of double boni for a lot of players who had their contract end after 2006.

MIJB#19

05-18-2004, 08:35 AM

Draft Day News: Merchantmen Trade Back In
In an amazing move, the Maassluis Merchantmen acquired the #153 draft pick overall with the #151 on the clock in a huge trade with the Columbus Architects. The Merchantmen gave away 2006 draft picks for 2007 draft selections with the deal. The Architects get the first rounder from Astoria, as well as second rounders from Astoria and Vicksburg. In return, the Merchantmen got Columbus' first, second and third rounders, as well as the earlier mentioned #153 in the 2005 draft overall. The selection was announced shortly after, as Maassluis got running back Kyle Montoya from Arizona college. General manager M.IJ.B. was pleased: "We got a player worth trading down from a second to third round, while we also address our cap troubles for the 2006 season by pushing huge salaries to the future." It seems the Merchantmen are not done dealing picks, yet chances are slim they will be able to strike another deal. M.IJ.B. is expected to miss the remainder of the 2005 draft as he has planned a five-day-four-night vacation following the draft.

MIJB#19

05-18-2004, 05:56 PM

With the Merchantmen GM going off for a little break, the news around the team will be on hold.

But wait... there will be more. Soon!
Expect a more serious preseason review for our division rivals.
Predictions on the likely playoff contenders.
Smack talking towards the offseason rivals from Tucker, Bordeaux, Astoria and North Plainfield.
More on the Rochester-Maassluis friendship being in jeopardy due to failed negotiations.

More on the stars of the team:
All IHOF tight end Jerry Aubrey's upcoming retirement.
The continued undervaluing of IHOF Defensive Rookie of the Year Cody Cluff.
Wilson Grimaldo about Maassluis' trading.
The sacking desire of Charles Gomez and Harold Wells.
Deon Chapa meets his mentor Albert Bernardo.
Why 12th pick overall Tai Wayne is happy going overseas.
Why Wiley McGhee prefered Maassluis over a dozen other teams.
And why potential franchise quarterback Leonard Lyon is called "The Lion".

Answers on big questions like:
Will the Merchanmen have a team with enough skilled players?
Do the new staff members inject positive influences?
Will there be a better game plan then in 2004?
How will the post draft free agency period improve the Dutch IHOF franchise for the 2005 season?
Will 2005 be the season of progress?
And what will the 2006 season bring?
Will 2006 be the break out season?
And will the top players be brought back in 2007?

But the main cliffhangers will obviously be:
Is the front 7 mature enough to haunt the opposing quarterbacks?
Was the #1 overall pick really haunted?
Will Jim Reiser take All IHOFer Jerry Aubrey's starting role?
Will Bryce Ewald rebound from injuries and make an All IHOF performance?
Is Alvin Causey going to comeback strong and sign a long-term contract?
When will Gene Simmons finally get traded from Rochester to Maassluis?

And the most intrueging question of them all:
Who will be quarterbacking the Merchantman in 2005: "The Lion" or "Fumblin' Justin"?

Stay tuned, the first and most alive IHOF Dynasty will be back... In just 5 days!

MIJB#19

05-24-2004, 06:14 AM

Exclusive: Investigating The Divisional Rivals
With the draft finalised, the time has come to take a closer look to the three divisional rivals of the Merchantmen. We'll take a closer look to each team's situation.

Bordeaux Vineyards
Star Players: Safety Cecil McIver leads the defense, while popular fullback Thomas Boden is known for his allround skills.
Quarterback: Joe Johnson is a top QB and was a main reason for Bordeaux's division title in 2004.
Overall: Never change a winning team, Bordeaux kept their men on board and should be contenders for another 9-7 season.

Gothenburg Giants
Star Players: Cornerback Harley Gowan is a popular and elite corner, but the real stars of the team are the linebacking trio of Steven Marshall, Hubert Cox and Andrew McDaniel. And then there's DT Chris Nagel playing in front of them.
Quarterback: Duane Davis is a young and upcoming player and could breakout in 2005.
Overall: If QB Davis steps up, this team could be a true contender and be of 10-6 material.

Maassluis Merchantmen
Star Players: Harold Wells and Charles Gomez are promising defensive linemen, newbies Wilson Grimaldo and Alvin Causey are elite offensive linemen.
Quarterback: rookie Leonard Lyon looks like the new guy on the block, yet Justin McDavid is very popular.
Overall: With the QB situation unsettled and the OL still developing, this team with a potential top5 defense could be 6-10 this season.

Paris Musketeers
Star Players: New safety Edward Boatwright is good for fans and good play, while Adam Greer is the All IHOF selection on last year's strong offensive line.
Quarterback: "Super" Mario Hudson was draft #4 overall to get Paris in shape for 2007.
Overall: Paris is in rebuilding mode, a 4-12 record is a good indication of what they could be.

Alf

05-24-2004, 07:50 AM

I agree on Gothenburg, Paris and Bordeaux but I see yourself on the contenders list to reach 8-8

MIJB#19

05-24-2004, 10:18 AM

I agree on Gothenburg, Paris and Bordeaux but I see yourself on the contenders list to reach 8-8I'd call it wishful thinking as of yet.

Really, I have the roster for it, but not the QB situation nor the game plan insight for it.
I believe in McDavid as a QB and Lyon could even be an improvement, but turnovers battlefield is cruel to young QBs...
The OL should be solid, the DL too, the LB team is above average and the secondary is also upgraded. Then there is the state of the art FB and TE situation with a decent RB and some talented leftovers at WR.

MIJB#19

05-24-2004, 12:02 PM

Irregular Interviewing With: Deon Chapa and Albert Bernardo
Hoek van Holland, Netherlands, the suburb of Rotterdam at the coast of the North Sea. Deon Chapa, defensive end playing for the Maassluis Merchantmen, drinks a diet coke, here called "cola light" as he stares at the beauty of the clouds over the sea. On his left sits a man of a dozen pounds less and a grey hair more. Albert Bernardo is the newest addition to the rising front seven on the Dutch franchise. Despite Bernardo's age and experience, Chapa is expected to sit ahead of Bernardo on the depth chart for the 2005 season. The second year player and the free agent addition join us in an exclusive double interview about their working together for the new season.
Q (Questioner) - Albert and Deon, you are playing the same position, yet only one of you will have the starting role on the opposite of the Merchantmen's sack machine Harold Wells. Who should we expect to make 10 sacks coming from the right side?
DC (Deon Chapa) - Well, I think who starts is up to the management, but I think we have a good group of ends to score a total of 25 sacks for the season from the ends alone.
AB (Albert Bernardo) - Looking to the potential at this franchise, with guys like Deon, Junior (McKeehan) and Harold (Wells), the opposing tackles will have a lot to do. And with pass rushers like Ellsworth Thelen and Mike Kershner behind the line, not to mention a monster like Charles Gomez from the tackle position, I see a potential for 40 sacks here.
Q - How big is the influence of the new players on the team, concidering the upgrade of the pass rush?
DC - Well, Ellsworth brings in 8.5 sacks and gives us two of the top 28 pass rushers in the league. Then there is Albert, a mentor type of guy. I think the other guys and me can learn a lot from him.
AB - Don't underestimate the presence of players on the other side of the ball. Justin McDavid is really tough to sack, while tackles like Wilson Grimaldo and Harold Hurtado bring some additional pressure to the training sessions.
Q - You named the two already, how does working with elite tackles as the likes of Harold Hurtado and Wilson Grimaldo improve your play?
AB - I think they bring the much needed competition young guys need. With respcet to the other guys, but Grimaldo is a top player at the rightside and Hurtado really earned the All IHOF second team honors.
DC - Definatly. Hurtado and Grimaldo bring so much more willingness to improve. Add up with Justin McDavid as the guy who can read any pass rush and scramble wild, and you have some serious practise.
Q - How big will the loss of Cecil Doney count?
DC - Well, he missed half of the 2004 season with injuries, but when he was around one could see how focused everyone was to retain their spots in the depth chart.
AB - I believe the rotation system worked well at the end of the season, when Doney returned. I've seen some tapes from last season. A bad sign is Doney being traded by the Astoria Heroes to the rivals from Paris. We suspect to avenge the sentiments built up by the trading of the draft picks at #1 and #6 overall...
Q - But with the Italian blood in the bodies of you two, avengence is just natural, no?
DC - I guess you watch too much mafia movies. Although I really liked the first two Godfather movies.
AB - Well, I think Deon is kinda like Robert DeNiro to me anyway. "Are you talking to me?" Then we laugh and carry on with walking all over Harold Hurtado.
Q - But seriously, does the Italian blood make you too grow to eachother or is the rivalry to play opposite Wells very big?
AB - The Merchantmen have a rotation system, guys like Junior McKeehan and I get plenty of playing time behind Deon and Harold (Wells). The defense is okay. Tai (Wayne) and Dennis (Preciado) stop the receivers, the safeties suppport where they can and the DL can completly focus on hitting that quarterback.
DC - 40 sacks, write it down. That's our over/under for the year. Let's show that Mario Hudson, Joe Johnson and Duane Davis what it feels like to be on your back all the time.
Q - Deon, you know your targets well already?
DC - The tapes of Hudson's last collegiate games are in. The team has scouted Hudson as a possible addition, so the material was here already. Johnson and Davis are familiar faces. But Hudson will be really surprised. With Grimaldo on our team, the Musketeers pass protection will have a big hole on the left side.
AB - Deon is so ready for the season. These guys want to get rid of the bad name. Being identified as part of a 1-15 team is something to get yourself motivated about.
Q - gentlemen, we thank you for your team and wish the Merchantmen a lot of success in the upcoming season.
AB - "Gern Geschehen", or is that German?
DC - Albert still has something to learn here. You wrote the 40 sacks down, right?

MIJB#19

05-24-2004, 12:09 PM

Merchantmen Sign Seven Players
The Merchantmen management is happy to announce the conclusion of contract negotiations with four of six draft selections. Cornerback Tai Wayne, guard Butch White, receiver Devin Henson and running back Kyle Montoya signed five-year, five-year, four-year and three-year contracts respectively. Additional, the Merchantmen signed two free agents to two-year contracts in running back Kennedy Colwell and linebacker Mitch Groh, while cornerback Steven Davis signed a one-year contract. Sadly, negotiations with center Brant Heinrich and quarterback Leonard Lyon were put on hold as both players refused to sign five-year cotracts. The Merchantmen management want to address the fans not to make much of the refusal to sign, we believe that the two players have a hard time finding the motivation to play for the worst team in the league. They just need some additional convincing words from the other star players signed this offseason, Wilson Grimaldo and Butch White.

MIJB#19

05-24-2004, 04:29 PM

Gossip News: Rookie Devin Henson Impressing In Mini Camp
In early mini camps, wide receiver Devin Henson is living up to more then expected for the Maassluis Merchantmen. General manager M.IJ.B. was quoted to be very pleased so far, saying "We primairily drafted him to take kickoff return duties and early signs tell us he's potentially a top ten player in that specialism." On another front, guard Butch White is expected to be a premier run blocker and cornerback Tai Wayne was quoted as being "the best zone defender Dutch football fans will ever see" by head coach Leroy Van der Woude. With these improvements, the day for Arnulfo Arnett to say goodbye is getting closer and closer. Which also leaves a big question mark for who will replace Frederic Vargas as the leader of the receivers. Jerry Aubrey and Bryce Ewald are the big names, but neither seems to have the leadership for it.

Alf

05-24-2004, 06:17 PM

Why do you write your nickname M. IJ. B and not M.I.J.B. ?

MIJB#19

05-25-2004, 03:30 AM

Why do you write your nickname M. IJ. B and not M.I.J.B. ?Because my initials are M. IJ. B. and not M. I. J. B.:)
The IJ combination stands for IJsbrand, a very uncommon first name. The name starts with a letter unique to the Dutch language, the y with dots, which makes it look like an ij combination.
I'm proud of having that name, yet even Dutch organizations have a hard time recognizing our language's unique character as something official.
In my daily life, I've seen my initials as M.Y.B., as M.I.B. and even M.I.J.B., but the only correct way to write them is M.IJ.B., which is what I will use any day of my life.

MIJB#19

05-25-2004, 08:54 AM

Comparing 2004 Starters With Projected 2005 Starters

Backfield
Quarterback
2004: Justin McDavid
2005: Leonard Lyon/Justin McDavid
Running Back
2004: Randy Harris
2005: Randy Harris
Fullback
2004: Vincent Lopez
2005: Mark Burger/Vincent Lopez
Overall improvement: Stay Put (The QB situation is scary, but is potantially stronger; Harris should be improved a bit; Burger should be as good as Lopez was; overall, the fumbling problem should be resolved for the most)

Receivers
Tight End
2004: Jerry Aubrey
2005: Jim Reiser/Jerry Aubrey
Flanker
2004: Gregory Monti
2005: Gregory Monti
Split End
2004: Bryce Ewald
2005: Bryce Ewald
Overall Improvement: Stay Put (Reiser is projected to do better then All IHOFer Aubrey, but not yet; Monti and Ewald return from injuries, but could have improved; overall this group should be as good as the 2004 group with top backup Frederic Vargas not replaced with likewise talent)

Offensive Line
Left Tackle
2004: Harold Hurtado
2005: Harold Hurtado
Left Guard
2004: David Burdett
2005: Butch White
Center
2004: Tom Schwartz
2005: Brant Heinrich/Tom Schwartz
Right Guard
2004: Albert Young
2005: Albert Young/David Burdett/Russell Malave
Right Tackle
2004: Russell Malave
2005: Wilson Grimaldo
Overall Improvement: Upgraded (White and Heinrich should be at least as good as the 2004 starters; Grimaldo is the big factor of immediate impact on the line; with Causey out for most of the year, the right guard spot is up for grabs; Overall the line should be stronger, better in protecting the QB and supporting the ball carriers)

Defensive Line
Left End
2004: Harold Wells
2005: Harold Wells
Left Tackle
2004: Charles Gomez
2005: Charles Gomez
Right Tackle
2004: John Bryant
2005: John Bryant
Right End
2004: Deon Chapa
2005: Deon Chapa
Overall Improvement: Upgraded (All four starters are young and should have improved a lot after a year as a starter; Overall the group is the same with mentor Bernardo replacing banged-up Doney)

Linebackers
Strong Side
2004: Britt Silvan
2005: Ellsworth Thelen
Middle
2004: Cody Cluff
2005: Cody Cluff
Weak Side
2004: Mike Kershner
2005: Mike Kershner
Overall Improvement: Upgraded (Thelen is a big upgrade over Silvan; Cluff and Kershner were top rookies and should be a lot better in 2005; Overall this group should be better then last year)

Secondary
Left Corner
2004: Dennis Preciado
2005: Dennis Preciado
Strong Safety
2004: Lincoln Gilmore
2005: Wiley McGhee
Free Safety
2004: Randall Smith
2005: Percy Francis/Richard Muller
Right Corner
2004: C.J. Schwartz
2005: Tai Wayne
Overall Improvement: Upgraded (The safeties could be little better then last year's starters, despite their maturity; Tai Wayne should be an imediate upgrade over last year's starter; Overall, Smith will be really missed, but having two worthy corners and another veteran at strong safety should make this group better, especially in depth)

Special Teams
Punter
2004: Ricardo Corales
2005: Ricardo Corales
Kicker
2004: Cary Coles
2005: Cary Coles
Punt Returner
2004: Randall Smith
2005: Raul Marshall
Kickoff Returner
2004: Dennis Preciado
2005: Devin Henson
Overall Improvement: Stay Put (Corrales is as good as he was; Coles should improve a bit; Smith will be missed as punt returner; Henson is a quality kickoff returner; Oter duties should see little change; Overall the special teams unit still needs some improvement)

Team Overall Impression
Backfield: Stay Put
Receivers: Stay Put
Offensive Line: Upgraded
Defensive Line: Upgraded
Linebackers: Upgraded
Secondary: Upgraded
Special Teams: Stay Put
Overall Offense: Upgraded (Especially RT Grimaldo should bring in some additional skill on the offense)
Overall Defense: Big Upgrade (With Thelen, Wayne and McGhee this side of the ball got better, while the expected improvement of others should make this a much better defense)
Team Overall: Upgraded (The QB situation remians scary, but the passing offense wasn't crappy at all; the rushing offesne should be better then last year, especially with less fumbles; the pass rush is expected to be better; the rushing defense should be better with a more mature front7 and supporting acts improved; the decent pass defense could be better with Wayne in, but Smith out could mean a downgrade; Overall the team is stronger and a 1-15 season like in 2004 should be very unlikely)

MIJB#19

05-25-2004, 10:35 AM

Merchantmen Unveil Website
Despite the non existence of desire to see it come alive, the Maassluis Merchantmen management is proud to announce the acquisition of an internet web space for the team. Merchantmen.Defense.Com (http://Merchantmen.Defense.Com) will be brought to life in a few days, yet the possible content of the site is far from clear. The managament can't confirm or deny the potential end of the Dynasty Report at FOFC (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=21067).

Kodos

05-25-2004, 12:30 PM

The rare link to the current thread trick! ;)

MIJB#19

05-25-2004, 03:27 PM

The rare link to the current thread trick! ;)Well, over at the IHOF Forum it links to this thread.:p

MIJB#19

05-27-2004, 04:37 AM

Merchantmen Get Ready For Training Camp
With the addition of rookie free agent cornerbacks Sammie Hernandez and Desmond Craig, tight end Charlie Martins, defensive tackle Cornelius Farr and wide receiver/return specialist Lonnie O'Reilley, the roster for the Merchantmen looks complete. With 67 players signed and offers sent out to first round draft picks quarterback Leonard Lyon and center Brant Heinrich. Especially the addition of Hernandez was called a great deal, according to general manager M.IJ.B.: "We opted to trade into the draft to get Sammie Hernandez, he was our second option with the pick we used on Kyle Montoya. Now we are just glad to have gotten him afterall." As odd as it may seem, all five rookie free agent additions have a decent shot at making the roster. M.IJ.B.: "We don't sign guys to fill out the roster, they should be potential improvements. That's why we offer two-year contracts." Martins should be a decent third stringer tigh end, Farr is talented run stuffer, Hernandez is an option as nickel or dime back, Craig is an interception specialist and O'Reilley a return duties backup. After camp, nine players will be cut by the management, yet they are not willing to call out names. However, with the latest rookies and second-year free agents added, some players are aware of their future, especially running back Kyle Page, tight end Ethan Winfield, receiver/returner Arnulfo Arnett, guard Darrin Nellums, tackle Jeff Fontenot, defensive tackle Andrew King, linebacker Britt Silvan and several cornerbacks. M.IJ.B.: "Yes, we have eight cornerbacks signed and all have a shot at making the roster, based on their camp performance." Two players were said goodbye today as running back Seth Kinney and defensive end Geoff Lake are free agents and were not resigned for training camp.

MIJB#19

05-28-2004, 04:09 AM

Gossip News: Merchantmen To Cut Arnett, Young, Kesler
The Gossip News has acquired an exclusive list with nine names of the players who will be cut by the Maassluis Merchantmen at the 60-men roster preseason deadline. Prominent names on the list are Arnulfo Arnett, the leader of the receivers and kickoff return specialist, Albert Young, who started 10 games at right guard in 2004 and Roy Kesler, a second-year running back with a "Dutch name", which is what some fans liked about the free agent signing. We also hear rookie linebacker Mitch Groh is set to be waived, despite a 100 thousand dollar signing bonus for a two-year contract. Other players listed as casualties are tackle Willie Dudley, who was 2-on-2 in key run blocks in 2004, guard Darrin Nellums, safety Graham Stevens and cornerbacks Steven Davis and Zack Kinney, who had 2 forced fumbles, 2 passes defended and 22 tackles in the 2004 season. The Merchantmen management was not willing to comment on the issue, saying the players who will be cut have not yet been informed. Yet, we believe the list is reliable and our experts think it's an accurate assumption. Of the players for the second wace of releases, when another seven players will be cut, the names are still a secret, yet we think third-year safety John Cole and especially defensive front leader Andrew King will be the prominent casualties.

MIJB#19

05-30-2004, 01:20 PM

Merchantmen Release Seven Players
The Merchantmen management is dissapointed to have to announce the termination of contracts for seven players after training camp to get the roster down to the preseason requirement of 60 players. Some were expected cuts, others were emotional goodbyes to players with mixed roles in the 2004 season. The seven players are: Arnulfo Arnett, Steven David, Willie Dudley, Mitch Groh, Roy Kesler, Zack Kinney, Darrin Nellums, Graham Stevens and Albert Young. The reasons of release per player are a bit different, but we wish all seven good luck in their remaining careers and hope to see them find a new team in the IHOF.

Exclusive: Reasoning Behind Pre-Preseason Cuts
Today, we let go of seven players. Although they are in the same boat, reasoning behind the cuts are different for every one of them. We'll try to run down the situations player by player.

Wide receiver Arnulfo Arnett was not expected to be a first or second stringer as wide receiver. We projected him as second kickoff returner, but we think that's not enough to earn a roster spot for another year.

Cornerback Steven David has the skills to become a 53-men roster cornerback in the future, specifically in intercepting passes and his stamina, but his lack of talent in other areas compared to other cornerbacks, Davis had no shot at making the roster.

Tackle Willie Dudley was 2-on-2 on key run blocks, but also allowed 2 sacks in his limited playing time. Dudley is a young tackle and we regret splitting him and his buddy Russell Malave, but Dudley showed too little progress over camp to keep him around as fifth tackle. With his size and potential as run blocker we think he could contribute as a backup in a few years in the IHOF, but with our project Leonard Lyon we can't have too much linemen who can't protect the passer.

Linebacker Mitch Groh showed he's a potential roster player, even a backup, but lost out on the hard competition with other outside linebackers acquired this offseason and kept from last season. Groh will walk away with a big signing bonus and even cost us cap space this and next season.

Running Back Roy Kesler has been unlucky as he was part of six players at the running back position with four of them pretty similiar in talent. Eventually the least experienced had to go and with his Dutch blood this really is a dissapointing move. We suspect that if we hadn't drafted Montoya and won the bidding war on Colwell, Kesler had made the roster as a future project on the inactive roster. We hope to see him set foot on land in the USA, getting a new job in the IHOF as a player,

Cornerback Zack Kinney has emerged as a hard hitting corner, who forced 2 fumbles, defended 2 passes and made 22 tackles in 2004. Kinney was a victim of the big competition at the cornerback position and lost out on his level of development. Kinney seems to have the potential for making a 53-men roster, but has to learn a lot more to be able to get there.

Guard Darrin Nellums has been an interesting player with his size, yet the addition of Butch White and Alvin Causey forced us to make room at the guard position. We wish Nellums the best of luck, but fear he will never be an IHOF player again.

Safety Graham Stevens had no chance making the roster at the safety position after we acquired two aged veterans during the off season. Stevens lost the battle with John Cole as the fifth satefy going into the preseason.

Guard Albert Young was a starter last year in 10 games, but missed 6 due to injuries. Young didn't have the stats to prove he's worth another year of starting and we will likely step to tackle Russell Malave or guard Devin McDaniel as the new right guard until Alvin Causey has recovered. We think Young is big and strong enough to get another chance in a training camp next season elsewhere in the league to earn a roster spot.

For the second wave of cuts, it depends on injuries and preseason performance but more then likely the seven casualties will be found at the following positions: quarterback, running back, tight end, center, defensive tackle, cornerback and safety.

MIJB#19

06-01-2004, 02:30 PM

Merchantmen Pre Season Game One Preview
Tomorrow, the Maassluis Merchantmen will play the San Luis Obispo Burn in their first pre season game, in Maassluis at 17:00 hours local time. What makes this game interesting is that the Merchantmen were the worst team in the Atlantic Ocean Conference, while the Burn were the worst team in the North American Conference with a 3-13 record. Who will be playing for San Luis Obispo is yet to be seen, though there are rumors that #2 draft pick defensive end Peter Hutton will not play in the Oranje Haven, as won't other stars, like Mark STenson and Bryan Smith, on Coach of the Year Steven Marble's team. However, the Merchantmen management wants to make clear to the fans that the best team possible will be lined up for the first quarter as a tribute to the loyal fans in Maassluis. For the remaining games, the team opts to only play potential victims for the 53-men roster cuts, play young players and make injured players and top players inactive. General manager M.IJ.B.: "We figured we have to offer the fans a look at what our team will look like. That's the least we can do after the dissapointing season we had last year. We hope to see the game go by injury free." The sun is expected to shine and the temperature will be manageble for four hours of American style entertainment in the heart of The World's Biggest Harbor.

MIJB#19

06-02-2004, 04:08 PM

Maassluis Versus San Luis Obispo Recap
The game made up for a close matchup between each conference's worst team. The San Luis Obispo Burn moved to the Netherlands for the first time ever to play the Maassluis Merchantmen in an exciting matchup. Both teams have drafted intrueging prospects at quarterback in the 2005 draft and the game showed some big excitement. The visiting team managed to take the lead midway the first quarter and expanded to 17-0 in the second quarter with touchdown passes from Victor Whyte and rookie Curtis Corbett. Maassluis' fan favorite and backup quarterback Justin McDavid connected with Bryce Ewald to get the home team at least competitive for the game. In the third quarter, McDavid marched the Merchantmen to 14-17 and a fieldgoal from Cary Coles (he went one-out-of-three for the day) tied the score early in the fourth. The Burn seemed to have clinched a victory with five minutes left on a 40-yard run for a score from Phil Dorsett, but Gregory Monti caught his second touchdown for the day from another McDavid pass with just over a minute left to tie the score at 24-24. In overtime neither team got a real chance, until Justin McDavid threw an interception with less then 2 minutes left in overtime. Eventually the game ended in the dying seconds as Kelly Prior kicked a 36-yard fieldgoal to hand the Burn a preseason victory. The loss marked the Merchantmen's first home loss in a preseason game since the start of the IHOF. In 2004, the Merchantmen went 2-0 at home.
Merchantmen starting rookie quarterback Leonard Lyon went 6-for-7 and 59 yards for the game, while Justin McDavid completed 24 of 37 for 331 yards, 3 scores and 1 turnover being the overtime interception. Gregory Monti caught 7 passes for 134 yards and 2 scores. Harold Wells excelled on defense with 2 sacks, 2 quarterback hurries and 7 tackles. But, the MVP award went to San Luis Obispo quarterback Curtis Corbett, who completed 13 of 20 passes for 134 yards and a touchdown.
For Maassluis, next up are the Minnesota Miners on the road. Last season, the Merchantmen went there on a regular season game, being handed the biggest loss in franchise history at 13-33 with quarterback Jason Gott acting like a god.

MIJB#19

06-03-2004, 06:15 AM

Gossip News: Quarterback Controversy Heating Up
Leonard Lyon has the name, but Justin McDavid has the heart of a lion. The 27-24 overtime loss against the San Luis Obispo Burn provided more food for discussion. Lyon completed 6 of 7 passes on 2 drives and 3 plays, but left the field as the Merchantmen were trailing 0-17. McDavid stepped up to lead the home team back in the game with 3 touchdowns, yet tossed an interception in overtime, which set up the eventual game ending fieldgoal in the last seconds of the game. The discussion keeps going and Lyon showed his skill, but McDavid saved the day, only to waste it once again. Fact is, the fans love Fumblin Justin, independant of his turnovers. Fact is, Lyon is a first round draft pick, the management need to let him play. Inside the team, players know that McDavid set some interesting passing records as a rookie and managed top 10 league performance wide in touchdowns on a 1-15 team. Rumors are both quaterbacks will remina active for the duration of the preseason to prove their skill, unlike last season when McDavid was inactived and called the starter, despite not having shown anything. Now, Lyon has showed his skill and looks better then the 2004 McDavid, yet he's fighting the pressure from the fans. Elsewhere, fellow rookie quarterback and #4 pick Mario Hudson went 5-for-10 and seems to have already lost the battle for the starting job. We at Gossip News still expect to see Lyon riding the bench until the last six games of the season, when the Merchantmen get their interesting schedule of 5 home games in 35 days. Next up is a road game in Minnesota. Last season, McDavid got humiliated there, this is the #1 opportunity for Lyon to rub it. If Lyon throws a touchdown pass and keeps away from the turnover battle field, the guy with the lionheart could be the 2005 backup of the real Lyon.

wade moore

06-03-2004, 10:05 AM

MIJB#19

06-03-2004, 10:50 AM

Fans Demonstrate Support for Fumblin Justin

A recent demonstration outside of MIJB's main office, showed that the fans really do support McDavid. According to local sources, there is a local effort to get McDavid the starting job no matter what it takes. Reports are that Lyon has received threats and offers of money to intentionally not play well.

McDavid fan club president wade moore stated, "Justin is the best Quarterback in the IHOF, hands down." When probed about his propensity to fumble the ball, moore's cell phone appeared to have lost it's signal.:D

The Merchantmen management wants the fans to know that the starting job will be reveiled after the last preseason game.

Exclusive GM Notes
Leonard Lyon is scouted higher then McDavid in both current and future potential, but the gut feeling of this GM still goes with McDavid as long as Lyon hasn't developed a little bit more.
The OL is not completly built yet and having a young QB with a shaky OL sounds risky. Plus, McDavid is the #1 sack avoider in the league, which makes up for a good fill in. And with his stats (barring interceptions), he can be a productive passer with (scouted as) good receivers.

MIJB#19

06-03-2004, 12:27 PM

Minnesota Miners Humiliate Merchantmen
The Maassluis Merchantmen management want to make sure that the 30-0 trashing loss at the Minnesota Miners means very little. The Miners were at full strenght, while the Merchantmen were continuesly switching players and kept most of the stars off the field. The whole game was something to forget as soon as possible. Next up are the Asheville Axemen, on another road game.

MIJB#19

06-04-2004, 06:17 AM

Gossip News: Raul Marshall Up For Trading
The Merchantmen keep it unconfirmed, but the news is that league wide teams are looking for a good #3 wide receiver and it is no secret that the Merchantmen management have been keen on Gregory Monti and Bryce Ewald from day one. Earlier victims have been Amos Collins (traded to Rochester Lake Monsters for All IHOF Second Team Tackle Harold Hurtado) and Frederic Vargas (the speedy Vargas was essentially traded to North Plainfield Plague for the #14 pick in the 2004 draft). Marshall is inked in as the backup to Gregory Monti and with Devin Henson and return specialist Lonnie O'Reilley. Additionally, the Merchantmen are expected to go into the season with ten defensive backs signed, meaning they need to open up roster spots at other positions. Also the names of backup tight ends Ethan Winfield and rookie longsnapper specialist Charlie Martins have been called out to be up for trade at the end of preseason. Marshall seems to keep it cool so far, yet we expect some struggling when the season is underway, with Marshall widely scouted as the better receiver then Monti. Problem is that Monti has taken a leadership role in the receivers corpse after the departure of Vargas and Arnulfo Arnett. This preseason, Marshall had 4 receptions for 73 yards against San Luis Obispo and 1 reception for no gain against Minnesota. In the 2004 season, Marshall had just 11 receptions for 141 yards and 1 touchdown.

MIJB#19

06-04-2004, 02:37 PM

Merchantmen Lose In Overtime Again
The preseason is supposed to show what teams are capable of. If that's true, the Merchantmen have shown they can comeback in games and manage to lose afterall. For the second time in three games, the Maassluis Merchantmen had a close game tied up at the end of the fourth quarter, only to lose in overtime. This time around, on the road at the Anaheim Matterhorns, the Merchantmen managed to keep level with their opponents in a game where all the scores were within the last 6 minutes of each half. Cary Coles' game tying field goal was scored in the last seconds of the game. Third string quarterback Antoine Shepherd seems to have saved his job with a marvelous 10-of-11 for 111 yards. Justin McDavid kept his fans hoping for the starting job, extending his preseason turnover record to 1 turnover in three games and 81 ball touches. McDavid ranks 4th in passing yards, tied for 2nd in touchdowns and 2nd in least intercepted qualifying passers in the preseason. McDavid was quoted: "We know what we can do, we can be competitive any day. I think the team is getting ready for some exciting season." And on the starting job: "Leonard will be a great passer in a few years." The Dutch IHOF team sits at 0-3 now, yet the two overtime games, one with the best against the best from San Luis Obispo and one with the reserves against Anaheim, those give hope for better. The management want to let the fans know that in the last preseason game, at home against the Columbus Architects, the more then likely starters for the 2005 season will be starting.

wade moore

06-04-2004, 04:05 PM

Justin Fan Club Newsletter

Hello fello fans!

As you have probably seen in the papers, we will find out what Quarterback will be starting next game agains Colombus. This game is at home. I am urging all ticket holders to be prepared to boycott. If our man Justin is not starting, then we will not attend! No concession money, parking money, or souvenir money from us! We'll show that team that Justin deserves to start!

MIJB#19

06-05-2004, 06:22 AM

Gossip News: Fumblin Justin Up For Trades?
Anonymus sources report that the Maassluis Merchantmen have started shopping around backup quarterback and fan attracter Justin McDavid. The quarterback issue with Leonard Lyon and Justin McDavid as the potential starters has reached a climax as the Merchantmen management have basically announced to unveil the starting role in the exhibition home game against the Columbus Architects. Names of teams as potential trade partners have been hard to get, but we are pretty sure that talks involve some teams with no quality quarterback as of yet. Right now, there are rumors on about seven teams being in negotiations: Boston, Boulder, Fairbanks, Fort Worth, Georgia, Orlando and Vicksburg. Additionally, the Merchantmen management has been caught in an extended phone call with the Paris Musketeers management and extended talking over the internet with the North Plainfield Plague management. The Merchantmen management are obviously denying this story as Justin McDavid is very popular and the fans won't buy a departure. McDavid was quoted saying: "I heard nothing about a trade. I concider myself a starter here, there are hardly other teams where I could start in this league. I'm not going anywhere." We know for sure something is going on in Maassluis. We also hear that Raul Marshall is going to be to a better team after the preseason. Gossip News will keep you informed on the situation.

MIJB#19

06-05-2004, 06:33 AM

Gossip News: Fumblin Justin Suspended?
The news on Justin McDavid is getting more and more interesting. We now here that Justin McDavid might be inactivated for the Columbus exhibition game later today. McDavid commented on possible trade talks to our reporters and now the Merchantmen management seem to concider suspending McDavid over that for the game. More and more, we are hearing that the quarterback situation in Maassluis is heading towards Leonard Lyon. Statistical analysis shows that Lyon performed on par or better in the preseason, except that he has more trouble when he is pressured by opposing defensive linemen. Especially the game against San Luis Obispo and Minensota, with top of the league defensive lines, have shown that Lyon can get things done, but only if tackles like Hurtado and Grimaldo are in-form. More and more, we are leaning towards Boulder Blizzard as McDavid's new home. However, Boulder has officially shown their interest in the 2005 draft first round quarterbacks class. Also, our cap management specialists tell us that trading Justin McDavid opens up about 300 thousand dollars of cap space for the 2006 season for the Merchantmen, which is just enough to replace him with a free agent rookie on the 53-man roster. But that could be resolved if the Merchantmen indeed trade away Raul Marshall, which would save about 700 thousand dollars in cap space for the 2006 season. And some newer rumor is that the Merchantmen are already concidering to make injured guard Alvin Causey their franchise player in the 2006 pre-season. And yet another big item is that All IHOF tight end Jerry Aubrey is about to be benched in favor of Jim Reiser, who has made a huge impact in the preseason thusfar. Gossip News will keep you updated on the McDavid soap.

wade moore

06-05-2004, 10:48 AM

Crazed Fans Burn MIJB in Effejy

The quarterback situation in Massluis just got stranger. The president of the Justin McDavid fan club, wade moore, was arrested today. He was caught fleeing from the scene of MIJB's office where he and other members of the fan club set fire to a stuffed dumby with MIJB across the front in spray paint. wade moore was quoted as saying, "he doesn't know who he's messing with here." moore could face up to 30 days in prison. This makes the situation even more interesting since McDavid is expected to be long gone by the time the prison sentence is over.

MIJB#19

06-05-2004, 12:12 PM

Merchantmen Appoint Leonard Lyon As Starting Quarterback
The Maassluis Merchantmen management announce that Leonard Lyon has been appointed starting quarterback for the first regular season game at home against the Gothenburg Giants. After extensive scouting and watching game tapes, the Maassluis Merchantmen want the fans to know who will be the most important player on the field in this new season. Lyon won the quarterback battle in the past preseason mainly after leading the Merchantmen to a fourth quarter comeback victory against the Columbus Architects. Over the last weeks, fans of Justin McDavid have been very supportive to their popular player. The Merchantmen management want to aknowledge the support to McDavid as positive emotion, yet fans should understand that if a better player outperforms McDavid, the better player should start. The decission was made mainly due to the fact that Lyon has shown better skills as a passer. Key decission was the performance of the offensive line as McDavid has shown to be a better passer of the two when the line is shaky, while Lyon looks like the better passer when the line is in good shape. Especially against Columbus, the offensive line excelled and provided Lyon the posibility to lead the team to a convincing 17-13 victory. Also, Lyon inspired Randy Harris to his first rushing touchdown since week 3 of the 2004 season, when Harris scored three times against the Gothenburg Giants. The management want to make clear to the fans that Leonard Lyon will be the starter for the whole season, unless there arises a serious issue concidering the performance of the team. Fans should understand that this mainly includes an injury of Lyon, dissapointing performance over an extened streak of games, either individual or by the team as a whole, and lastly the possibility of early elimination from the playoffs.

Well isn't this an excellent timed post to start page 4?

MIJB#19

06-05-2004, 03:16 PM

General Manager Notes On Starting QB Decission
After the 3rd preseason game I compared McDavid and Lyon more extensively.

What made the real key element was how I saw that Lyon has a lot more "hurried into bad throw" passes while McDavid has "normal" bad throws.
These two stats seem to be the only difference, other then that Lyon completes a few more, while McDavid had a lot more pass attempts with the same number of turnovers (1).
Now, I had to pick: McDavid's bad throws or Lyon's bad throws when pressured.

I noticed that with OT Wilson Grimaldo playing, Lyon performed okay against starters. But with Grimaldo inactive, the line was terrible against backup players.

Really, in my opinion I saw this in nubmer of bad throws (including those hurried by pass rush):
Lyon with starting OL > McDavid > Lyon with backup OL

I decided that the Columbus game would be a tiebreaker, if I'd see that the OL can avoid sacks, Lyon would be the guy, if not McDavid. I couldn't imagine that Lyon would be a 4th quarter comeback winning quarterback in that preseason game, even though McDavid had the better unanalyzed stats.

Eventually, a crucial element has become how I would cope with the right guard position. I have put RT Russell Malave there and he excelled playing side-to-side with his mentor Wilson Grimaldo, solving the big question mark on the OL.

Maybe I come back on this decission later on, but right now starting Lyon seems better for the team. What if one of the important OTs, Hurtado or Grimaldo goes out? The OL will allow more sacks and changing to McDavid could all of a sudden make sense to keep the bad throws number manageble.

Of course, now I can expect every opponent I will face will rush the passer even more, luckiliy the rushing game has improved and will take advantage of teams focussing on the pass.

Darkiller

06-05-2004, 03:25 PM

Maybe I come back on this decission later on, but right now starting Lyon seems better for the team.
This is the issue I have at the moment, which as me wondering on the Musketeers QB situation quite a bit:

- Starting Eugene Westcott would be better for my team now.
- While starting Mario Hudson will probably not help the team now but could certainly make the team better for the future.

Should I help the team for now, or for later ?

There's a debate...

wade moore

06-05-2004, 03:59 PM

MIJB#19

06-05-2004, 04:15 PM

First comment: Would we give a crap about these little details in SP where we know we could beat the CPU either way? Heck NO!

So, anyway... "Out Of Character" comments...

I think the analysis and decision you are making is very intrigueing and is going to make the way I look at some of my decisions in the future very different.. it also makes me wish that FOF actually kept some stats that you are able to look at if you delve through the game logs...

Anyway... the decision you are making actually makes a lot of good sense to me -- including the decision to shop McDavid around. Right now you are showing that McDavid has improved on some of the mistakes and can really make up for a suspect line. If you could find a team with a struggling QB situation and a weak OL, you could really get some value out of McDavid.First, the McDavid trading talk was gossip news, whether that is true will remain a secret until he gets traded, which is if that would ever happen...

What makes this so interesting is that I know for sure that in single player, I would have gone with one guy, simmed a few games and turned the situation if we had lost too much.
In this multiplayer league, the pace of the league is so "slow" that I actually take the time to look at these minor stats to get to a good decission. It could look like "micro-management", but for this QB situation (can't say that picking a starter isn't important) I had to find a way to pick a guy.
Ever since I drafted the three late 1st rounders, it became clear to me that to make a QB decission, the OL situation would be crucial, because:
1. McDavid showed he can pass when he is pressured
2. Lyon didn't have the skill bars indicating he could handle pass rush pressure
3. the middle of the line was a big mess with two rookies and a player acquired for 2006 and later

Then, the preseason got through and I noticed:
1. McDavid can avoid turnovers, but still will have a bad pass per quater more then Lyon
2. Lyon can't handle pass rush pressure as McDavid can, but he was okay with the OL at full strenght
3. Grimaldo is the key element on the line when he plays
4. rookies C Heinrich and LG White showed glimpses of worthy starters
5. RT Russell Malave excelled as right guard

Good thing preseason games went by in less then a week, or else I'd have spent two weeks on analysing preseason stats on two unproven QBs to pick a starter.
Looking back to 2004, I picked McDavid back then knowing the Maassluis OL would be the s*ckiest in the league, and on that OL the only good player made All IHOF Second Team Left Tackle.

Next up for deciding:
All IHOF Tight End Jerry Aubrey or promising youngester Jim Reiser
Aubrey was a key receiver in 2004, but Reiser has already shown he's better as a receiver and has better blocking skill bars

Long Live The IHOF!

wade moore

06-05-2004, 04:45 PM

The "micro-management" is something I think most of us hardcore FOFCers really LOVE to do in reality though... The problem is, in SP there really is no "pay-off" like I said... For me at least, a dynasty is the only way I could even keep myself remotely interested in game-to-game happenings, versus big picture things. In otherwords, with a dynasty I somewhat cared about game to game results whereas without the dynasty I just looked at my tanding, whether I made the playoffs, and how I did in the playoffs. The reason the big picture was all that was important is because no matter what I did in the "micro-management" in SP, I knew I would win 75% of my games most of the time anyways because my roster would always be better. Now you know that you have 31 gm's against you that are all better at player management than the CPU is.

So, my point being, picking the guy that will throw 4 less bad passes a game as long as the OL is healthy matters now. It could make the difference between having the ball 30:00 during the game versus 35:00. That 5:00 could make the difference on whether your oppenent has the time for the 4th quarter comeback to win the game by 1 point this week...

I think you see my point, i hope... the slow-pace and micro-management would not make you look at your team closer if you were going against the cpu, but against human gm's it does and that is what MP is all about...

On another note, I really feel like I'm at a distinct disadvantage with my CFL team in making some of the analysis that you are. I took over the team in season two right after the last exhibition game and before the first regular season game. I feel like I do not have a true feel on how they performed last year. In addition, I was not able to manipulate the pre-season as you have. In fact, my top two picks were not even signed until after regular season game 1 so I could not see them at all. So, I look forward to actually DOING roster management and pre-season games.... although, there is a unique challenge to attempting to win with "somebody else's" team... I know a little more how new NFL coaches feel when they have to make do with what they have.

Interested to see how the TE decision is made... not just what the decision is, but the Dynasty posting gives a unique view into WHY the decision was made which is why I wish everyone did dynasties for their MP teams ;)

MIJB#19

06-05-2004, 04:56 PM

Merchantmen Trade WR Marshall To Fairbanks
In an interesting trade, the Maassluis Merchantmen have traded away wide receiver Raul Marshall to become a Snowbomb at the Fairbanks North Stars. In compensation, Maassluis receives a 2006 third round draft selection. The resoning behind the deal from general manager M.IJ.B.: "We needed cap space in 2006, this deal clears about 750K. Second, we needed to get rid of a WR and Marshall was too expensive to sit on the bench behind Monti and Ewald. We needed to keep both O'Reilley and Henson as return specialists." With this deal, the Merchantmen have to cut only 6 in stead of 7 players to get down to 53 players signed.

MIJB#19

06-05-2004, 05:09 PM

The "micro-management" ... [lot of text] ... I think you see my point, i hope... the slow-pace and micro-management would not make you look at your team closer if you were going against the cpu, but against human gm's it does and that is what MP is all about...This QB saga has really been more mind-breaking then I ever imagined I would expect to take time for in FOF.
At some point I had to set a line between the two, and I think I have found a way to get it. On the other hand, for 2004 I set the game plan to take advantage of McDavid's strenghts and I picked McDavid because my OL starters averaged pass protection of about 10 out of 100. Now I have to pick between the QB I really started to like a lot and the guy I invested a 1 st round pick in.

On another note, I really feel like I'm at a distinct disadvantage ... [lot of text] ... I know a little more how new NFL coaches feel when they have to make do with what they have.Personally, I feel like being the rookie of the IHOF, having stepped into the IHOF with no FOF experience since FOF2.
On the preseason building, that's been the best experience as of yet, by far. The trade talking has been a great feature SP can't offer.

Interested to see how the TE decision is made... not just what the decision is, but the Dynasty posting gives a unique view into WHY the decision was made which is why I wish everyone did dynasties for their MP teams ;)This won't be an easy call.
I tried to trade one of them and for both there have been talks, but I wanted too much for either guy and now I have them both on the team.
The reasoning behind this decission will be explained later on and I think it's really interesting to have to pick between the young promising star and a proven all league tight end (I think other owners in the league underestimate Aubrey's run blocking, yards after catch and especially # of TDs).

wade moore

06-05-2004, 05:58 PM

This QB saga has really been more mind-breaking then I ever imagined I would expect to take time for in FOF.
At some point I had to set a line between the two, and I think I have found a way to get it. On the other hand, for 2004 I set the game plan to take advantage of McDavid's strenghts and I picked McDavid because my OL starters averaged pass protection of about 10 out of 100. Now I have to pick between the QB I really started to like a lot and the guy I invested a 1 st round pick in.

I've always had this problem in all football games (madden, fof, whatever)... getting attached to players... it's hard to bench the guys that you have gotten so attached to...

Personally, I feel like being the rookie of the IHOF, having stepped into the IHOF with no FOF experience since FOF2.
On the preseason building, that's been the best experience as of yet, by far. The trade talking has been a great feature SP can't offer.

Gives you motivation to try even harder, eh? I also feel like I did not play FOF4 as much as many others, most of my time was with FOF2k1...

This won't be an easy call.
I tried to trade one of them and for both there have been talks, but I wanted too much for either guy and now I have them both on the team.
The reasoning behind this decission will be explained later on and I think it's really interesting to have to pick between the young promising star and a proven all league tight end (I think other owners in the league underestimate Aubrey's run blocking, yards after catch and especially # of TDs).

I think many people underestimate the TE in FOF in general... If you see my Torpedos, my TE was the leading receiver in the CFL last season...

I look forward to the dynasty continueing, and I hope my silly comments and input make it more fun for you -- i know it always did for me when people did it in my past dynasties..

MIJB#19

06-06-2004, 02:09 PM

I look forward to the dynasty continueing, and I hope my silly comments and input make it more fun for you -- i know it always did for me when people did it in my past dynasties..Keep it up, it's really inspiring to keep reporting.

You know, even though I "know" others read (like rivals, some other IHOF people, and I don't know woh more), seeing some input reminds me there are readers and writing is more fun when you know people read it (to me it is at least).

wade moore

06-06-2004, 02:14 PM

Keep it up, it's really inspiring to keep reporting.

You know, even though I "know" others read (like rivals, some other IHOF people, and I don't know woh more), seeing some input reminds me there are readers and writing is more fun when you know people read it (to me it is at least).

AGREED 100%... much of what I'm doing is a style that is stolen from Bee when he was doing the same with a dynasty of mine for FOF2001... I disgruntled and disinterested in dynasties without the stuff... only a certain portion of my dynasty is solely "for me"...

So, I'll keep it up because I know it will keep you inspired...

MIJB#19

06-06-2004, 03:57 PM

Merchantmen 53 Men Roster Cuts
The Maassluis Merchentman management are sad to announce the termination of the contracts of five players. Quarterback Calvin Snider, running back Kyle Page, center Julio Carranza and tight end Ethan Winfield were interesting backups in the 2004 season, but are victims of the acquisition of better options the past off-season. Rookie Cornelius Farr failed to outperform defensive front leader Andrew King and could have made the roster if there weren't five quality safeties on roster. Also, conrerback C.J. Schwartz, a starter in 2004, was injured reserved to save him for the team and to guarentee him a job at the start of the 2006 season. Of these players, Calvin Snider was the most interesting. Snider started in the Merchantmen's first ever IHOF regular season game, but couldn't overcome an undeserved close loss at the North Plainfield Plague. Snider was known on the roster as the most competitve of all players. Ethan Winfield hardly saw the field, but showed glimpses of a quality third tight end with his run blocking skills. Like Winfield, center Carranza has fine stats to present on his resume, despite the limited playing time. Kyle Page got a dozen of ball touches and was not known as a guy who let the team down. We think the four guys with a season as Merchanman in their lugage will all find a new home during the 2005 season as soon as injuries will start haunting rosters league wide.

MIJB#19

06-06-2004, 04:09 PM

Gossip News: Aubrey Remains Starting Tight End
Our reliable source tell us that All IHOF tight end Jerry Aubrey will be starting for the Merchantmen in week one against the Gothenburg Giants. Aubrey's position has been tested as his understudy Jim Reiser showed glimpses of excellence. Reiser caught 8 passes for 105 yards and 1 touchdown, to rank him 4th amongst tight ends in receiving yards for the pre-season. However, it seems that Aubrey and Reiser will be sharing playing time and Aubrey's lack of leadership has worried the management. Some people expected Aubrey to take a leadership role, yet he let them down and Gregory Monti, of all people, has emerged as the new leader of the receivers. Monti has been Leonard Lyon's favorite target, meaning Aubrey's receiving skills will be less important with also Bryce Ewald, the Merchantmen's standout ball catcher. Add the expectation of an improved and more active running game and Aubrey's blocking will be more important. In 2004, Aubrey emerged as the best blocking tight end in the league, helping him into All IHOF honors, yet Reiser has shown he's the better blocker of the two and has already proven he can catch a ball too. Aubrey is named starter for now, but we think his future will go hand-in-hand with Leonard Lyon. When the stats are not there, the role will be stripped and given away. Next up for discussion is the full back job, where Vincent Lopez has looked injury prone, but also showed chemistry with most of the ball carriers to block for them. Yet the fans want Mark Burger and Burger is expected to get key running back duties this season. Gossip News will keep you informed on the situations, as always.

MIJB#19

06-07-2004, 03:10 AM

Preview: Maassluis Versus Gothenburg
The long pre-season is over, the cards are shuffled and the dice ready to be rolled. The Maassluis Merchantmen will get a home season opener against the only team they beat in the 2004 season, the Gothenburg Giants. Last season, Justin McDavid was making the calls, but three handoffs to Randy Harris clinched the victory. Harris has been waiting for a touchdown score ever since that game, until the last preseason game. McDavid has handed the ball to rookie Leonard Lyon, who has been provided with a revamped offensive line. RT Wilson Grimaldo, LG Buth White and C Brant Heinrich are new to the line, while Russell Malave has moved from right tackle to right guard. Left tackle Harold Hurtado remains as the leader of the group, yet Grimaldo provides more skill and a mentor role to Malave. In the backfield, the Merchantmen have dealt away backup receivers Frederic Vargas and Raul Marshall, yet the progress of Mark Burger and especially Jim Reiser provide food for optimism, but the starters for now are RB Randy Harris, FB Vincent Lopez, TE Jerrry Aubrey, WR Gregory Monti and WR Bryce Ewald. On the defensive side of the ball, the Merchantmen acquired four new starters, yet the defensive line monsters have all stayed. DE Harold Wells, DT Charles Gomez, DT John Bryant and DE Deon Chapa form one of the most talented lines in the league. Mention the addition of mentor and backup DE Bernardo, leader DT King and promising DE McKeehan and the cherry on the defense shows depth too. Behind them, last year's rookie linebackers Cody Cluff and Mike Kershner got a new buddy in sack machine Ellsworth Thelen. Sadly, Kershner will miss the season start. In the secondary, three new starters are appointed. Dennis Preciado remains leader of the gang, but with CB Taj Wayne, SS Wiley McGhee and FS Richard Muller, the team improved the highly ranked pass defense. With the promising backups SS Gilmore and FS Francis behind them, the Merchantmen feel confident.
The first 2005 opponent, the Gothenburg Giants are known for young promising quarterback Duane Davis, aged veteran and star on the offense Jerry McGee. On defense, the defensive line jumps out with veterens Lloyd Peterson and Chris Nagel, while prospects David Millard and Tyrell Ramsey can keep Wilson Grimaldo and Harold Hrutado busy all day. The secondary remain as the best group of the team, making the first start of Leonard Lyon a true exam. If Lyon can do well against the Giants' secondary and pass rush, a bright future can be expected. But if he fails, the fans could be screaming for Justin McDavid in no time...

MIJB#19

06-07-2004, 06:51 AM

Gossip News: Merchantmen Management Lying To Fans
Two days ago, the Maassluis Merchantmen announced Leonard Lyon as the starting quarterback. Gossip News has sources claiming that it was all a setup to make the Gothenburg Giants management confused and let them think they're playing a team vulnerable to aggresive pass rushing en blitzing. Our strategic analyzers think that the Merchantmen will run a lot more then last season, making Randy Harris the guy tot tackle. And if the front seven is only focussing on the quarterback, who should be the hard to sack McDavid today, Vincent Lopez, Mark Burger, Randy Harris and Jonathan Smith will have a great day racking up yardage over the ground. League pundit Dr. K. has been fallen in the trap too, yet he expects the Merchantmen to copy their 2004 performance against the Giants. In the meantime, the Vegas experts have the losingest team of the league written down as 9-point favorites, the biggest spread in week 1. With Mario Hudson and Ron Lyle probably warming the bench, Lyon was expected to be the only first round quarterback to start in week one, but that seems out of the picture now. The biggest casualty of the lies will be the Merchantmen's bank balance, as McDavid has drawn fans to Oranje Haven and with the announcement of him being the backup, the fans might stay away from football today.

wade moore

06-07-2004, 07:46 AM

The fans are shocked.....

Absolutely floored...

MIJB#19

06-07-2004, 12:43 PM

Maassluis Versus Gothenburg Recap
The weather was nice, the preview was too. Football experts around the league expected the Leonard Lyon led Maassluis Merchantmen to do what they did in the 2004 season, win the first home game of the season against the Gothenburg Giants. Then it was a record setting game, today it was one for the Merchantmen record books too, but not quite what they expected.

In the first quarter, Leonard Lyon got the first drive of he game started, with his first pass completed for 12 yards, but three incomplete passes later, he was walking back to the sidelines for the first time too.
The Giants got possession and Duane Davis showed Lyon what handling pass rush means and scrambled for 20 yards to set up a 3-yard touchdown run from good old Jerry McGee for a Giants 3-0 lead.
The Merchantmen failed themselved, but the Giants got the ball back at their own 8-yard line. Davis blundered on 2nd and 11, to get sacked by Andrew King in the endzone for a safety.
Next, Lyon then got the ship sailing and the Merchantmen reached the Gothenburg red zone line going into the second quarter. Sadly, Lyon couldn't get things done and even All IHOF tight end Jerry Aubrey couldn't score on third-and-goal at the 2-yard line. The home team settled for an 18-yard field goal to stay behind 5-7.
The Merchantmen defense stepped up and kept Davis struggling, forcing 3-and-out. Randy Harris got things moving, running for 5 yards four times, while Lyon tossed some first downs in too. Eventually, Mark Burger turned the team work into points, scoring on third-and-one at the Giants goal line, putting the Merchantmen 12-7 up.
David and McGee marched the Giants into the two-minute warning, yet the Giants settled for a 48-yard succesful fieldgoal attempt. The Merchantmen were 2 points up, with 1:41 left to increase the lead. With 15 seconds left, the home team gave up and punted, leading up to a last incomplete pass from Davis ending the half.
In the second half, the Merchantmen defense kept going, forcing 3-and-out on the Giants first drive. A run from Harris for 8-yards seemed to strengthen the Dutch pride, but then Lyon out of nowhere threw an interception on a short pass. Harley Gowan returned the ball 37 yards, giving the visitors a good position to take the lead back. McGee then performed a one-man show, rushing seven times and catching the only pass thrown to get the Giants back up 17-12.
Lyon tried to lead the team back in, but Harris looked exhausted and the Merchantmen were forced to punt. Davis moved his men forward, yet the Giants settled for a 55-yard field goal attempt and Damien Deming failed.
Lyon tried to get the chains moving, but at the start of the last quarter he was stopped. The only sack from the Giants for the day turned the ball back to the leaders in the game. McGee kept running as Davis lost the form of the day, yet the Giants couldn't score again.
The Giants defense managed a 3-and-out and helped the offense starting at the Maassluis 47-yard line. Davis failed to get things going, but Deming scored a 37-yard field goal to get Gothenburg 20-12 up.
On the next possession, Maassluis started at the own 19-yard line. Harris ran for no gain after a false start penalty. Lyon tossed a bad short pass and Gowan made his second interception of the day count even more, yet he was stopped at the Maassluis 13-yard line. The game looked about, as Duane Davis tossed a touchdown pass from 7-yards out to Alfredo Bass putting Gothenburg 27-12 up.
The game was bascially over, yet with 5 minutes left there was time for a miralce. However, Lyon couldn't get the home team close to the end zone. After the teams exchanged punts, Lyon tried on fourth-and-seven shortly after the 2-minute warning. He completed the pass to Bryce Ewald, but Ewals was kept inches from the first down. Davis kneeled on third-and-two to end the game.

The Merchantmen lose the first game of the season, again. Yet this time, the 15-point loss marked the biggest home loss in franchise history as the Merchantmen never lost in Oranje Haven by more then 10 points. The quarterback issue remains active, yet the Merchantmen management has called Lyon the starter for he two road games at Frederick and Fort Worth going towards the early bye week.

MIJB#19

06-07-2004, 01:23 PM

Leonard Lyon Out, McDavid Back Starting
The first game of the season provided food for the McDavid fans to want him back as the Merchantmen faces their worst loss on home soil in franchise history. An injury to Leonard Lyon forces McDavid back into the lineup for week two, as history repeats. McDavid didn't play in game one of the 2004 season, but then started the remaining 15 games of the season. Lyon pulled a groin today, making him doubtful for the road games at Frederick Red Menace and Fort Worth Fury. Lyon is expected to be recovered after the open weekend in week 4, giving McDavid two chances to regain his starting role. People around the league have been sceptic about McDavid. McDavid set marvelous passing records for a rookie, yet his fumbling record of 13 in 15 games handed him the Fumblin' Justin nickname. Fans of McDavid have already started spreading jokes, referring to holy books. One fan was quoted saying: "David wrestled with the Lyon to earn the rights to be the king. Somebody up there wants him to play, the signs are so clear!" In the locker room, the rest returns for a few weeks as the starting role will be a non-issue until Lyon is fully recovered. Gemeral manager M.IJ.B.: "Lyon is so young, we can't take a risk in rushing him back in early. We can't have him get an aggrevated injury this early in his career." McDavid was happy to be the starter again, but said he hopes Lyon will return back healthy without a problem. Now is the time for last year's 1-14 starting quaterback to show his preseason performance were no fluke. McDavid got through the preseason without a fumble and he looks more confident then ever before. It's time to get rid of the undeserved reputation.

European Division Breakdown
Bordeaux beat rivals Paris at home 33-21
Gothenburg avenged 2004 and won 27-12 at Maassluis

Standings
1-0 Gothenburg
1-0 Bordeaux
0-1 Paris
0-1 Maassluis

Schedule, next up are four interconferencial games:
Gothenburg host Chesapeake, who managed the biggest victory of the week and are clear favorites
Bordeaux host Brooklyn, who are one of the weaker teams in as of yet, Bordeaux are playoff contenders
Paris move to Astoria, who are a team with no real weakness
Maassluis move to Frederick, who are a 1-0 team and 2004 division winners

Projected standings next week:
2-0 Bordeaux
1-1 Gothenburg
0-2 Paris
0-2 Maassluis

Merchantmen GM Top Merchantmen Award
I have decided to make my own team MVP player award this season. Every game we win I will hand out 15 points (5, 4, 3, 2 and 1) to the five best players. In losing games, the top three best will get points (3, 2 and 1). In case of a tied game, I will hand out 10 points (4, 3, 2 and 1) to the top four players.

Week one stars
3 DT Charles Gomez - 1.5 sacks, 6 tackles, 2 assists and 3 quarterback hurries
2 WR/RS Lonnie O'Reilley - 4 receptions (target 4 times) for 51 yards, 1 kickoff return for 25 yards and 1 punt return for 9 yards
1 OT Russell Malave - 2 of 3 key run blocks, 0 sacks in 38 passing plays

Overall standings
3 DT Charles Gomez
2 WR/RS Lonnie O'Reilley
1 OT Russell Malave

wade moore

06-07-2004, 05:32 PM

McDavid Fan Club President wade moore Escapes

The Massluis Police have reported that wade moore has gone missing from the local jail. moore had 8 days left on his sentence, so many are baffled as to why he would risk further jail time. Many sources close to the deranged fan of the much ridiculed "Fumblin" Justin McDavid believe that the police would be smart to head to Frederick...

MIJB#19

06-08-2004, 03:13 AM

McDavid Fan Club President wade moore Escapes

The Maassluis Police have reported that wade moore has gone missing from the local jail. moore had 8 days left on his sentence, so many are baffled as to why he would risk further jail time. Many sources close to the deranged fan of the much ridiculed "Fumblin" Justin McDavid believe that the police would be smart to head to Frederick...Here's hoping Leonard Lyon doesn't go down with a flesh wound in week 2. It's time to contact the FBI... :D

2005 IHOF Season Schedule
01 vs Gothenburg (divisional rivals, L 12-27)
02 @ Frederick (GM created images for Merchantmen)
03 @ Fort Worth (fellow young developing team)
04
05 vs Tucker (rivals over stealing our defensive coordinator)
06 @ Georgia (fellow lowly ranked team)
07 @ Paris (divisional rivals)
08 Conyers (2004 season undeserved Merchantmen-beaters)
09 @ Bordeaux (divisional rivals)
10 @ Orlando (Dutch versus Dutch)
11 @ Gothenburg (divisional rivals)
12 vs Brooklyn (fellow lowly rated team)
13 vs Rochester (fellow lowly rated team)
14 @ Chesapeake (GM is long time rival outside of the IHOF)
15 vs Bordeaux (divisional rivals)
16 vs Astoria (trading partners for picks #1 and #6)
17 vs Paris (divisional rivals)
wc tbd
dr tbd
cf tbd
bg tbd

MIJB#19

06-08-2004, 06:48 AM

Week Two Injury Report
QB Leonard Lyon - doubtful, will be emergency quarterback until the next home game
LG Alvin Causey - out, is expected to return for the last game of the season
CB Tai Wayne - probable, will start, yet should be in a rotation system
LB Mike Kershner - questionable, will remain inactive
DT John Bryant - probable, will start, yet in rotation with Andrew King
CB C.J. Schwartz - probable, has been put on injured reserve

Exclusive: General Manager Notes
For weeks, I doubted about the QB situation.
I was so determined to play with McDavid ands bench Lyon until the OL developed enough to actually protect the passer. In preseason, Lyon looked as good as McDavid, looked worse under pressure but better with Grimaldo protecting him. I picked Lyon over McDavid, knowing Gothenburg have a strong pass rush.

Then, week one turned out as an eye-opener.
Lyon got injured and didn't get it done under pressure. In 7 of 38 passing plays he got pressured into a bad throw, got blocked or was sacked. I think he could do well against Frederick and Fort Wort, yet he won't get the chance. McDavid will be back and with the other offensive players looking okay, he could be seeing his 2nd career victory in one of the F-road games.

Now what?
It's easy if we lose twice. Lyon goes back in and will have another couple of games to show is potential. But if McDavid plays like he did in preseason, we have the old guy returning to duty. Personally, I feel that the team has all the needed talent on offense, except the QB to keep things moving. I know both McDavid and Lyon won't be at their potential until the 2006 season at the earliest, but I want to see some progress this season. The first game of the season could or should have been a close game, yet we faced the biggest home loss in franchise history. So much for progress.

Still, there's hope.
The season is 16 weeks longer then this, even more if we get things going. But I doubt it. We have games we could win, but none we should win. Fort Worth, Georgia, Paris (twice), Rochester, Brooklyn, Conyers and Gothenburg are games we could win. Winning half of those and losing all others brings us a 4-12 record. If that's the case, our mission is failed, no doubt. Lyon or McDavid, 6-10 is the goal, we have to upset one third of Bordeaux (twice), Frederick, Orlando, Tucker or Astoria. Beating Chesapeake is too much to ask.

Other issues?
Well, LB Kershner has been missed on the defense, obviously. The weakside linebacker could be more important then we thought. I can't risk to play him as of yet, he'll be back in the filed from week five and on. CB Wayne and DT Bryant are risky starts, yet we put them in rotation to avoid agrevating injuries.

And the Causey story?
Well, I've made up my mind on this. We wait for the day he's back to 100%, he seems unwilling to sign a contract that fits under our 2006 salary cap. Plus, with Russell Malave blosseming playing side-by-side with mentor Grimaldo at RG, we could be in a 6 startable OL players by then. The franchise tag is a serious option once the 2005 season is over, yet that also depends on his recovery. And to be honest, I underestimated the lenght of the injury, I hoped he'd be missing only a few games, but that seems to not be the case. What really worries me is how we can ever turn him into the value of the two 3rd and single 4th rounder he cost us.

MIJB#19

06-10-2004, 03:18 AM

Maassluis At Frederick Preview
Looking to last season, this game provides the most winning opponent for the Merchantmen all season. The Frederick Red Menace won a tough division with an 11-5 record, ahead of the highly touted Chesapeake Chitterlinks. Today, the Merchantmen hope to be competitve like they were last year on the road against other favorites like Boston, North Plainfield and San Antonio.
A relief for the Maassluis offense is the absence of Red Menace pass rush maniak Ronnie Oxley, who had 9.5 sacks and 20 QB Hurries in the 2004 season. But other then that, the Red Menace are at full strenght.
Jackie Percy is a second-year quarterback, who had a comparable 2004 season like Maassluis passer Justin McDavid. However, Frederick provised a top talent running back in James Cull with stand-out blocking fullback Danny Wickman in front of him. And those stars are playing against one of the worst run defense in the league. Not to mention the strong offensive line in front of the backs opening gaps in the opposing front seven. Interesting is the Red Menace center J.J. Burroughs in that matter as the Merchantmen never made it a secret that Burroughs was their primairy target for the 2005 amateur draft.
On defense, the Menace provide a 3-4 front seven with interesting linemen and a quality linebackers group. Stand-outs are insinde linebacker Barney Pascoe, who's sore elbow could limit his actions, and defensive end Frank Kerrigan, who had 8 sacks and 27 quarter back hurries in 2004. The Merchantmen running game and pass protection should be able to keep pace with this front seven. Last but not least is the Frederick secondary. Cornerback Harold Worsham could keep the Merchantmen's top receiver unreachable all day, while safety Aaron Windsor is a young and inspiring secondary leader.
It's interesting to look at how Frederick managed to beat Astoria Heroes. The Menace had less yards per rush, less passing yards and more turnovers in the 24-17 victory. Not to mention the Frederick having almost 70 yards of penalties more and comparable third down statistics. Fredrick managed to win as they had 22 yards less to advance towards to goalline per drive, a more then likely significant decission maker. Or maybe it all came down to Marshall Fisher's 103 yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
All in all, these are signs for a traditional Merchantmen coming short game, with the opponent halted on the pass, yet keeping the chains moving with excellent running plays. Not in the last place with both teams having comparable return specialists, kickers and punters.
For the Merchantmen, the return of Justin McDavid has caused some media to predict another #1 pick clinching season. And the biggest loss at home in team history, desite the obvious improvement of the team. Especially on the offensive line the Merchantmen have improved already.
Still, we're talking about a game with on one side a winning team playing at home and on the other side a team that broke the longest streak of losing games last week, setting it at 14 games. Nobody in the league expect the Merchantmen to win today, yet the reborn Justin McDavid has proven in the pre-season he can get things moving. If McDavid can keep his play turnover free like in pre-season, we're up for one heck of an exciting game. If not, the Menace could destroy McDavid's ambition and opportunity as starting quarterback.

wade moore

06-10-2004, 06:03 AM

Rumor has it some prognosticator even had you guys winning this game...

MIJB#19

06-10-2004, 06:55 AM

Exclusive: Cody Cluff Rising Star On Merchantmen Defense
It was week two of the 2004 IHOF season. The Paris Musketeers were expected to trash their divisional foes Maassluis Merchantmen with ease. The Musketeers defense featured Joe Teeters as middle linebacker, a guy who record 12 tackles the week before. The lowly Dutch team featured a rookie at the same position. On the first play of the game after the kickoff return, the Merchantman defense leader made his mark. Fabian Parker stepped back to launch his first smashing pass to humiliate the young Merchantmen secondary, but the number 50 in white-and-orange defended the pass.
That number 50 was middle linebacker Cody Cluff. Cluff set the tone for his game that day, a game in which he recorded 10 tackles and 4 assists to add to the defended pass. Of those 10 tackles, 3 avoided a third down conversion and another tackle was for a loss.
In weeks 4 and 7, Cluff improved his single-game tackle record with 11 tackles in each game. His star was rising and over the full season, Cluff came one tackle short to hit the magical mark of 100, but got a nice compensation by being rewarded the IHOF Defensive Rookie Of The Year Award. Additionally, Cluff had 33 assists, 1 sack, 1 interception and 4 defended passes.
This recent preseason, the Merchantmen extended Cluff's one-year contract to a four-year contract, but at a relative level at only 800 thousand dollars a year. They decided to give Cluff some playing time, which resulted in 28 tackles, 5 assists and 1 pass defended on 128 defensive plays. Those 28 tackles were the highest total in the league and the average of 7 per game was a league highest as well.
Cluff seems to make the stats of a star, but there still is concern. Cluff is not producing on passing plays, yet the pass defense is the charm of the team. Cluff managed just 1 sack and no blocked passes or quarterback hurries in 16 games in the 2004 season. On the pass defense, Cluff allows the most catches of the team. Is this guy the rightful middle linebacker with so many tackles on a very good pass defense?
The question is still out there, the Merchantmen scouting claims that Cluff is at just about 30 to 50 percent of the level he can play on some day. With guys like run stopper Mike Kershner and pass rusher Ellsworth Thelen, Cluff will continue to make tackles and get the much needed playing time to improve in other areas. Now if only he learns how to defended the pass too, Cluff could become an elite linebacker in the future.
It is week two of the 2005 IHOF Season. The Maassluis Merchantmen will face the winning-est team they will face all season, today. The Frederick Red Menace have a shaky passing offense, but provide a nice running game. Cody Cluff is coming of a game with only 5 tackles, 3 assists and 1 defended pass. However, none of those tackles or assists were on a play clinching a new first down. Still, Jerry McGee marched for 90 yards on the day. Cluff clearly missed his buddy Mike Kershner and had a hard time seeing the guy in front of him, Charles Gomez, pick up more tackles for the day.
Today, Cluff gets a second shot at shutting down a top of the league running back. James Cull and his sidekick Danny Wickman will be a tough test, especially with Kershner inactive. But time could repeat with Cluff like it did with the Merchantmen quarterback situation. It's time to prove he was a Defensive Rookie Of The Year, but now is a Defensive Player Of The Year.

MIJB#19

06-10-2004, 06:57 AM

Rumor has it some prognosticator even had you guys winning this game...I've seen it, pre-preview, yet the prediction is so biased, it can hardly be taken into concideration as serious.;)

MIJB#19

06-10-2004, 11:36 AM

That article must have inspired Cody for today's game.
Not giving away the score, but Cluff kept the Merchantmen in the game...

Game review will be up in approx. two hours.

MIJB#19

06-10-2004, 01:42 PM

Maassluis At Frederick Recap
The odds were in favor of the Frederick Red Menace, but the Maassluis Merchantmen felt like they had a chance against last year's playoff team. And today was a good day for Justin McDavid to show how much he has really improved.
The Menace got first possession of the game but got off to a bad start. Jackie Percy saw his first pass blocked by Deon Chapa and on second and third down, Charles Gomez was the man with an assist on a 0-yard run and by hurrying Percy into a bad throw.
The Merchantmen got their first drive rolling with McDavid steering. Despite a sack early on, McDavid passes for first downs to Vincent Lopez and Gregory Monti, while Randy Harris and Jonathan Smith rotated well and ran for gains too. When Smith converted a third-and-one on the Frederick 25-yard line, he basically set up a pass from McDavid to Bryce Ewald to get the visitors 7-0 up. History learns that McDavid led the Merchantmen into early leads more often then not.
The Menace tried to get maniacal, yet came a little short and punted from the Maassluis 36-yard line. Despite hardly completing a pass, McDavid led the Merchantmen into a first-and-ten at the Fredrick 10-yard line. Yet, McDavid got overwhelmed by his succes and tossed an interception to Alton Steele. The Merchantmen defense forced a three-and-out to get possession back. Randy Harris ran twice, but on his second run, Harris fumbled and again Steele scored a turnover by recovering the ball.
James Cull and Daryl Layman started running, but a penalty led to a third-and-six situation. Percy stepped back, but center J.J. Burroughs let him down and Harold Wells and Charles Gomez sacked Percy to forc a punt.
The Menace defense then stopped the visitors. THe Merchantmen defense did the same, but the Dutch offense failed again.The Menace got the ball back with just over four minutes left to get back in. On a normal second-and-fourth situation around the middle line, Percy launched a bomb towards the Merchantmen redzone, yet linebacker Cody CLuff intercepted there and returned the ball unstopped for 68 yards and a 14-0 lead with just over two minutes left in the half.
Percy was shaking all over and failed to get all his passes catches. With a minute left, the visitors got the ball back on a punt. But when you expect them to end the half, Jonathan Smith ran for 10 yards, only to fumble the ball and see it returned to the Maassluis 11-yard line. The Menace got 52 seconds to advance 11 yards. Runs by Cull failed, but on third-and-eight Layman got it done and put the Menace closer at 7-14 down.
Just when the home team figured the half was over, Maassluis had a little surprise. Lonnie O'Reilley returned a short kockoff for 23-yards and got Maassluis going. On first-and-ten, a pass interference penalty was called and Maassluis had 4 seconds with the clock stopped to kick in a 54-yard field goal. THe insecure Cary COles kept it cool and put his team 17-7 up.
In the second half, the Merchantmen got the kickoff return, yet Devin Henson fumbled the ball after a 27-yard return and was backed up by teammate Charlie Martins. With Harris still on fire, McDavid hardly had to do something, yet the Merchantmen sailed into the red zone with ease. Vincent Lopez ran from 12-yards to the endzone to put his team 24-10 up.
Percy and Layman then kept the Red Menace moving, yet a sack from Wells on thrid-and-six forced a punt. The Merchantmen started the ball control game and ran like it was normal. When the punted, nobody expected that Darron Doyle would return the punt well, especially not for 92-yards and a touchdown, like he did. The Menace looked back in the game 14-24 down and with still 16 minutes left.
With McDavid failing to consume time, Percy got the ball back, but failed on third down. On fourth-and-ten, the Menace gambled with a fake punt and punter Cameron Funches couldn't connect as Desmond Craig defended the pass.
McDavid found Monti for 22 yards moving Maassluis back into the redzone and despite some misfortune, Coles kicked in a 29-yard field goal for a 27-14 lead.
With less then ten minutes left, Frederick needed two touchdowns to go ahead. Percy knew that and had a 31-yard pass to Marshall Fisher, but his men then failed and the home team settled for a 45-yard field goal.
On the next drive, Maassluis was forced to punt and Fredrick had close to five minutes. Percy converted a third down, but the team decided to punt from the Maassluis 42-yard line with just over three minutes left. The Menace got lucky and got the ball back with just over two minutes left.
Percy connected for a first down, and on fourth-and-five from the Maassluis 7-yard line, Percy went for it and found Todd Phillips to get back in the game.
Or not, the Merchantmen recovered the onside kick and two time outs were too little to get the ball back. Harris ran twice and McDavid kneeled to the victory.
Cody Cluff recorded 9 tackles, forced a fumbled and returned an interception for a touchdown to earn MVP honors. The Merchantmen end a 14-game losing streak to get rid of their bad name and for the first time ever have record not below 50 percent. Believe in the defense is back, yet McDavid didn't show he's the solution at quarterback. Who's gonna start next week is not sure, but McDavid was called the #1 for the road game already and this victory is unlikely to get Lyon back in the line.

MIJB#19

06-10-2004, 01:54 PM

European Division Breakdown
Maassluis got one of the upsets of the week, beating Frederick 27-24 on the road
Bordeaux humilited Brooklyn 34-0
Paris fell short at Astoria losing 10-20
Gothenburg were unlucky 20-22 losers to Chesapeake

Standings
2-0 Bordeaux
1-1 Gothenburg
1-1 Maassluis
0-2 Paris

Schedule, next up are four interconferencial games:
Bordeaux host North Plainfield, marking the only game with two unbeaten teams
Gothenburg host Syracuse, a team ridiculed over their 1-5-5 defense
Maassluis play at Fort Worth, meaning one of these lowly ranked teams will be 2-1 after the game
Paris visit Telluride, meaning the Musketeers could be 0-3 next week

Projected standings next week:
3-0 Bordeaux
2-1 Gothenburg
1-2 Maassluis
0-3 Paris

Merchantmen GM Top Merchantmen Award
I have decided to make my own team MVP player award this season. Every game we win I will hand out 15 points (5, 4, 3, 2 and 1) to the five best players. In losing games, the top three best will get points (3, 2 and 1). In case of a tied game, I will hand out 10 points (4, 3, 2 and 1) to the top four players.

Week two stars
5 LB Cody Cluff - 9 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 interception returned for a touchdown, 2 passes defended and 1 assist
4 DE Harold Wells - 2.5 sacks, 4 tackles, 1 assist and 3 quarterback hurries
3 K Cary Coles - 2 of 2 field goals scored including a 54-yarder and 3 of 3 extra points converted
2 DT Charles Gomez - 0.5 sacks, 4 tackles, 1 assist and 4 quarterback hurries
1 CB Tai Wayne - 1 tackle, 2 passes defended and 1 catch allowed in 39 passing plays

Overall standings
5 DT Charles Gomez
5 LB Cody Cluff
4 DE Harold Wells
3 K Cary Coles
2 WR/RS Lonnie O'Reilley
1 OT Russell Malave
1 CB Tai Wayne

wade moore

06-10-2004, 07:23 PM

wademoore sighted in Frederick

There was a wademoore sighting in Frederick... Merchantmen fans who made the trip have digital photos taken with the rabid fan... It appears that no one turned him in until they knew he was safely away.

He was holding up a cryptic sign that said, "I TOLD you so!"

MIJB#19

06-11-2004, 11:00 AM

MIJB#19

06-11-2004, 11:29 AM

Merchantmen Management Praise Players
After the historical victory at the Frederick Red Menace, the Merchantmen management want to thank the fans who moved all the way to America to watch this road game. The management want to praise the defense for shutting down the Red Menace offense. We also thank the offense for exploiting the opportunities given by the defense. A special reward goes to Cary Coles, who scored two field goals, including a league season longest of 54-yard kick. The Management are leased by this victory at a team that reached the playoffs in 2004. General manager M.IJ.B.: "After week one, we feared we had gone back to zero despite the time spent on improving the roster the past off-season. This victory shows we did make progress at some areas and we are more competitive then estimated." The management want to make clear that the number of turnovers 3 (1 interception, 2 lost fumbles) were still too much to be a true contended all year long. However, the fact that Justin McDavid didn't fumble shows the management that he's indeed stronger then in 2004 and deserves concideration as the starting quarterback. M.IJ.B.: "Of course the marvelous performance this preseason was noticed. A quarterback rating of 89.7 is high, despite the lesser opposition and pressure coming with preseason games. The fact that McDavid didn't fumble and had only 1 interception, but also had his traditional game opening touchdown pass put a smile on my face." Lastly, the Merchantmen management want to make clear that Leonard Lyon is still too severly injured to be reincluded into the first or second string quarterback roles, or the role as holder on kicking plays.

wade moore

06-11-2004, 07:58 PM

I should write more articles on potential game MVPs.
Any ideas for the game day MVP on the Fort Worth road game?

TE Jim Reiser?
FB Mark Burger?
CB Tai Wayne?
OT Russell Malave?
OG Butch "Not Bruce!" White?
QB Justin McDavid?

Unfortunately I had to leave my laptop at work this weekend, which has FOF on it... does my purchase allow me 2 licenses? i'll take a look and make suggestions after I look... you have tons of time to plan of course... these extra days are going to be so tough!

MIJB#19

06-12-2004, 10:31 AM

Unfortunately I had to leave my laptop at work this weekend, which has FOF on it... does my purchase allow me 2 licenses? i'll take a look and make suggestions after I look... you have tons of time to plan of course... these extra days are going to be so tough!You don't have to inspire me really, I have written down some ideas in advance, mainly some of the topics mentioned in the cliffhanger post about 50 post back.
But maybe VPI's break is well timed since my college project buddy and I have to finalize our project and related report/essay/papper/whatever-it's-called the coming week. Not to mention having a job interview on Thursday, an evening exam on Tuesday and some Euro2004 watching to do. I bet I forgot to mention something else almost as important, like volleyball "commitments"...

Anyway, to keep the dynasty alive (Dutch inside joke, only Dutch Pop Idol fans could see) I wanted to do some extended player reports to give some of the stars and my personal favorite players a little bit more character.

MIJB#19

06-14-2004, 03:52 AM

Merchantmen Defensive Linemen Conquer IHOF
The 2005 IHOF season is only two rounds of regular season games going and already the Maassluis Merchantmen have recorded as many victories as in the innaugural IHOF season, on year earlier. The sole victory needed to tie the 2004 total came on the road at the 2004 playoff team Frederick Red Menace. Linebacker Cody Cluff managed to get the MVP honors for the game, mainly based on his interception return for a touchdown, yet two players playing in front of him were a big reason of his succes. The Merchantmen field two of the top 10 most talented defensive linemen in the league and they play side-by-side on the left side to haunt opposing quarterbacks. These rising stars are Charles Gomez and Harold Wells.
Against the Red Menace, Gomez and Wells combined for 3 sacks and hurried the quarterback into a bad throw 7 times. For the day, the two wasted 10 of 42 passing plays, which is a tremendous production of two players palying against one of the best offensvie lines in the league. Granted, the Menace line is haunted by injuries, but Gomez and Wells did their share in haunting the line even more. Additionally, the two combined for another 6 tackles on 18 rushing plays.
The Merchantmen defense has always been the strong side of the team, especially the pass defense, yet the pass rush seemed to underperform. This offseason, Gomez and Wells got big contract and now the two start showing up as top players. So far, Wells made 2.5 sacks and 4 hurries, which are both top 10 league wide stats. Gomez had 2 sacks and 7 hurries, ranking him second league wide in hurries. Gomez and Wells, two fourth-year players who managed to increase their great 2004 production, but who are they?
Charles Gomez is a hero in the eyes of manyn already. Gomez spent his college football career at the Air Force, where he played together on the defense with Astoria Heroes' Martin Halsey and Columbus Architects' Leslie Diggs. With those three, the Air Force had one of the best defensive lines ever produced. Gomez residents at Rogue River in Oregon. One could be amazed about he location he plays in now, yet it also means the ocean is on the right side for him and as far away as he was used to. Gomez feels quite at home in Maassluis.
Harold Wells' house is built in Melrose, New Mexico. Wells graduated from the small college of Olivet to play football at a professional level. Wells is now the second best payed Merchantman behind Gomez, yet people don't recognize him as a big star. Wells made a team high 9 sacks last season and no less then 65 tackles, yet people don't recognize him as a smart guy with leadership skills.
Gomez had a marvelous 2004 season, SI made him an all AOC selection as Gomez racked up 68 tackles and 5 sacks. But like Wells, people won't recognise Gomez' leadership, but praise his loyalty and desire to stay in Maassluis for the duration of his career. And joining forced with Wells, the two seem like a perfect couple to tear apart the right side of any offensive line.
Some experts think that the addition of mentor Albert Bernardo to the roster and the leadership of reserve player Andrew King help the two stars to focus on their own play. New defensive coordinator Kim Johannsen could be a facotr too as he's known as an expert in working with linemen. Johannsen worked in Rochester with lesser talented linemen, but can make his knowledge count in Maassluis.
General manager M.IJ.B. confirms: "What Johannsen does with these guys is amazing. We hand him the tools and Johannsen makes it work. That's a reason why Folyd Seba had to go, he knew nothing about defensive linemen." Johannsen and his assistent Bernardo seem to get the two potential star players moving and the future looks bright. In the European division, teams don't have excellent offensive lines and Gomez and Wells can do their trick.
Going by these early numbers, Wells is projected at around 50 tackles and 20 sacks, while Gomez projects at 75 tackles and 15 sacks. It's simple, if the season ended now, we could be looking at two All IHOF awarded players. Of course, the season is still 15 rounds of play long and Gomez and Wells don't have the best supporting act surrounding them, the Merchantmen are offense minded.
The verdict wheter these two can play without eachother is still out, yet with relative limited guys like Dennis Preciado, Andrew King, Ellsworth Thelen, Richard Muller and relative unexperienced players like John Bryant, Mike Kershner, Deon Chapa and Tai Wayne, it's pretty amazing how these two guys and Cody Cluff keep this defense together.
Their next stop is Fort Wort in Texas. Fort Worth has made rookie Kendall Green their new starting quarterback, yet he's protected by a big offensive line. If the Fury can keep their men together, this could be the best line in the league in no less then 3 years. But not today, the Fury's right side of the line is young and unexperienced. Gomez and Wells won't settle for a sole sack, they will go out to interfere for at least 5 passing plays on their own, per player. As it looks now, their performance is more based on the fire power on offense, if McDavid can't get things going, the defensive line will be run stopping in stead and won't be able to rush the passer one-fourth of the time...

MIJB#19

06-15-2004, 07:01 AM

Jerry Aubrey, From All IHOF Selection To Backup Tight End?
It was late December 2004. RayCo, Tennessee walked out for the all important IHOF football game that should help the Raiders reach the playoffs. The opposition were the worst team in the league, the Maassluis Merchantmen.
After the first half, Rodger Mowery and Brian Hartsock had already clinched the victory, leading their men to a 24-0 halftime lead. The third quarter just started with a kickoff resulting in a touchback.
First-and-ten at the Maassluis 20-yard line. Center Tom Schwartz snaps the ball. Quarterback Justin McDavid catches. McDavid looks around. The #81 is open. McDavid launches the ball. #81 catches. He runs past his defender. He breakes a few tackles. He scores! Jerry Aubrey brings the Merchantmen closer in the game.
Jerry Aubrey, tight end, a 33-year old football player, scored on an 80-yard reception for a touchdown. The guy immediatly gives a high five to the #86, who is up for the next play.
Kickoff to Maassluis. Car Coles kicks. The RayCo returner walks towards the 30-yard line. He's tackled byte #49. He fumbles! #86 recovers the fumble at the RayCo 28-yard line! Jim Reiser gives the Merchantmen possession!
Jim Reiser, tight end, a guy with potential to be a playmaking receiver. He set up a drive in which the earlier mention Aubrey had a key run block on third down and scores his second touchdown of the game on a 2-yard pass.
That day, Jerry Aubrey improved his statistics enough to earn All IHOF honors. Owners league wide complained and called North Plainfield Plague's Brenden Drumm the better player, yet the award giving people recognized Aubrey's blocking skills and big play receiving over Drumm's consistency.
Eight months later, the discussion has started, Aubrey is aging and his backup has improved. Jim Reiser had a tremendous pre-season with 8 receptions for 105 yards and 1 touchdown. Additionally, the Reiser jersey's are selling like candy, the 24 year-old tight end has the repuatation of he most loyal person in the universe.
It was early September 2005. The Maassluis Merchantmen pay their first game of the season at home and just recently announced that rookie quarterback Leonard Lyon is the new leader. However, the last player on offense entering the field before Lyon is announced is the only All IHOF first team selection: Jerry Aubrey.
The experts are shocked, people saw how Aubrey was McDavid's favourite target, yet Leonard Lyon did well with Reiser in the lineup. Lyon with Aubrey, could that work? The answer was no, Aubrey has 2 catches for 4 yards and the fans silently asked for a return of Fumblin' Justin, the Lyon wasn't ready.
Next game, McDavid replaces the injured Lyon and the Merchantmen face their strongest opponent of the regular season. Jerry Aubrey is targeted 14 times and grabs a total of 6 balls for 43 yards. Signs of declining skills are visible, but as long as McDavid is playing, Aubrey will be a main target.
Head coach Rodney van der Woude is just happy having both: "What's wrong with having a proven star and a young hot prospect sharing time? You're gonna miss one of them when he gets injured." McDavid said: "We have the best performing tight end in the league. Jerry blocks, he catches and gains yards. He does all there is to be done on offense."
Jim Reiser on the situation: "Sure I want to play, a lot. But when you're backing up such a talented person, I should be proud. My days will come the next years". General manager M.IJ.B.: "We opted to trade one of the players, but lack of interested kept both around. Now we are just happy to have a great receiver with outstanding depth at such an undervalued position."
The Merchantmen management hoped that Aubrey would become some sort of mentor towards Reiser, yet the rivalry for the starting job seems to avoid it. Maybe the team should try to design an offense better suited to play with both tight ends. But as long as they don't, the discussion will remain.
Aubrey is still healthy enough to block, catch and run. Reiser's potential as a better blocker, better catcher and better runner. Lyon to Reiser, a play called in the future. But today, McDavid to Aubrey is the guanrentee for a first down.

MIJB#19

06-17-2004, 01:38 PM

Maassluis At Fort Worth Preview
One won, one lost. The fans of the Maassluis Merchantmen and the Fort Worth Fury must feel like being in heaven, their favorite team is not below .500 percent. Even better, in five days, one group of fans can enjoy the privilegde to root for a winning team.

Maassluis against Fort Worth, a game between young teams led by young quarterbacks. Maassluis are likely starting with Justin McDavid, mister turnover of 2004. Rookie and first round draft pick Leonard Lyon is expected to sit out the game with a groin injury. Fort Worth are likely to field rookie Kendall Green.

It's unlikely to expect that either quarterback will deciding the game. Looking at the two players' statistics, their numbers are amazingly similair. McDavid completed 16 of 29 for 161 yards, 1 score and 1 interception. Green completed 15 of 26 for 140 yards, 1 score and 1 interception. Can you see the differences in the numbers?

What could be more important are the supporting acts. Fort Worth's premier receiver is rookie free agent pickup Mouse Tail Perry, with 5 receptions for 74 yards. Maassluis field all league tight end Jerry Aubrey, his even better backup Jim Reiser and split-end Bryce Ewald. Ewald could have been a 1,000-yard receiver in 2004 if he hadn't missed 4 games due to injuries. And then they add their own rookie free agent Lonnie O'Reilley, who has 6 receptions for 81 yards.

Criticial for Maassluis' succes thusfar has been their defense. Especially middle linebacker and 2004 Defensive Rookie of the Year Cocy Cluff makes his mark. Harold Wells (2.5 sacks) and Charles Gomez (2 sacks) are the monsters on the defensive line who will try to tear apart the young, but talented Fury linemen. Sadly, Deon Chapa, the other talented defensive end is unavailable with strained calf muscle, yet Junior Keehan and mentor Albert Bernardo will share playing time to support the others. Positive news is the return of Mike Kershner, although in a backup role, his hip injury seems healed enough to play.

Fort Worth field their own amazing pass rush. Together with the Merchantmen, they are the two of only four teams to field two players with 2 or more sacks made this season. Reuban Lajoie and Ellis Mier (called "The Ant" in Maassluis), combine for 5.5 sacks thusfar. Plus, they have their own mister tackle in Scott Hansel at middle linebacker. We haven't even mentioned rookie defensive tackle Joel Woodcock yet.

The game could be won by the Fury secondary. Preston Quezada is an elite cornerback, yet could miss his buddy safety Michael Tull. Quezada and buddies are expected to keep the Merchantmen receivers unreachable. On the Dutch team, the secondary has a reputation to hold up as a top 5 passing defense in yards allowed. With rookie Tai Wayne and Dennis Preciado at cornerback, plus the experience safeties Wiley McGhee and Richard Muller, the Merchantmen could make the Fury passing game vulnarable.

What remains are the rushing games. The Fury had a top 10 rushing game in 2004. With an improved offensive line, William Wood could break the 1,500-yard mark if he stays healthy all season. In contrast, Merchantmen rusher Randy Harris doesn't live up to expectations and has a reputation as a fumbler. That in despite of his so-called sticky hands. His feet hardly talk either, though with three new starters on the offensive line, things look better for him.

Analyse more if you want, but the only thing you'll see is two young teams sitting at 1-1 and in amazement of having a shot at being 2-1 in five days. As a Merchantmen fan, you want your team to see win, yet the similarity in the teams is so big, one could as easily toss a coin. All in all, these teams together have the ingredients to make it an exciting game, yet we hope to see Maassluis go into the bye week at 2-1 and have a quarterback controversy, in stead of seeing Leonard Lyon return because McDavid led the team to a big loss in Texas.

HornedFrog Purple

06-17-2004, 02:00 PM

Yeah it will be amazing that one of us will be over .500 for the first time in franchise history.

My offense is still struggling as Wood hasn't gotten going yet and even though we won last week the offense only managed 10 points (the defense scored 21) :rolleyes:

I think it will be a real close affair with some kind of big play winning the game for the winning team. All I know is my defense is angry over not getting defensive player of the week.

Good luck and we will have some barbeque either way!

MIJB#19

06-17-2004, 04:49 PM

All I know is my defense is angry over not getting defensive player of the week.Some in the Merchantmen camp have similair sentiments:
quick copy-'n'-paste
LB Cody Cluff - 9 tackles, 1 forced fumble, 1 interception returned for a touchdown, 2 passes defended and 1 assist
DE Harold Wells - 2.5 sacks, 4 tackles, 1 assist and 3 quarterback hurries

Anyway, this could be a close and as said before, one of us will feel like Kodos' Lake Monsters did last season: sitting at a playoff spot early in the season.

MIJB#19

06-20-2004, 05:10 AM

Why McGhee Picks A Fumbler Over A Winner
Imagine the following scenario. You are playing strong safety in the International House Of Football football league. In mid January 2005, you and your Asheville Axemen are 330 seconds away from a 17-16 victory over the powerhouse of the league. Five and a half minutes later, your team has lost 17-19 to the eventual champs, without ever getting the ball back.

Two months later, you are announced as one of several additions for the worst team in the league. A team who has a younger player talented enough to keep you on the bench. You turned down offers from six other teams, including your old team, the European Division Champions and the Atlantic Ocean Conference Champions. Still able to imagine it?

One day your quarterback is the famous Thad Pilkington, the next it's the infamous Fumblin' Justin. As unlikely as this may sound, 31-year old Wiley McGhee made this unlikely step. What on earth convinced McGhee to play for two years in Europe for the league doormat in stead of playing for three of four years for a team with chances to win it all?

"Yes, Maassluis offered the most green ones per season." McGhee is honest on the issue. But how much is more? Maassluis offered 6 million over two years, Asheville more then 2 million extra for a third year. Simple, money can't be all there is, or isn't there?

Were hopes of starting in Maassluis better? Not really, Maassluis had three young safeties playing for the 4th best passing defense in the league and Maassluis signed a second safety together with McGhee. Lucky for McGhee, he is a starter now and with him, the Merchantmen doubled their number of all time victories.

"Well, it can't be my credit for the victory, though I wish it was," McGhee seems cool about it, "football is a game of teams, not individuals." But why would you leave a fine place like Asheville, or not go to Telluride and have a shot at a championship?

looking now, McGhee would be backing up young and promising Joshua Finlay in Asheville, Telluride could have used McGhee as an aged backup to Adan Chambers and Bordeaux has a super star called Cecil McIver to play second string to. In Maassluis, McGhee is playing and making tackles like last season. Maybe McGhee forsaw his future and planned his move well.

"Starting is more fun then backup up on a winning team, to me." There, McGhee says something tat makes more sense then money. For now, McGhee is a first choice, but for how long? Lincoln Gilmore looks destined to take over some day.

Besides that, the Merchantmen are not likely to be winners this season, or he next. McGhee will be a free agent again when Maassluis should start winning in 2007. "That's the far future, too far. Who says we won't be good this year?"

One thing McGhee does miss is fan popularity. In Asheville, the McGhee jerseys were selling like mad. Tackle David Rosen and Jerrod McCluskey were popular, but McGhee was a close number three. In Maassluis, there are a handful of skill players to compete with. One of them is Justin McDavid.

Fumblin Justin, the infamous quarterback, 13 fumbles, 22 interceptions. McGhee disagrees "Justin, he's a smart kid. Not Thad-smart, but smart." Besides, McDavid is up for replacement, if it wasn't for rookie Leonard Lyon's groin injury. McGhee must have been sceptical to join this young teams without a legimate starter at quarterback.

Good quarterback or not, McGhee has found a home and is playing, a lot. Maybe they are distinct, but some players rather play somewhere then ride the bench. And for some, a million dollars extra does make a difference...

wade moore

06-20-2004, 06:49 AM

Good stuff as always! I'm interested to see what happens if McDavid starts the season 2-0 and Lyon is healthy.... What happens in Game 4?!

MIJB#19

06-20-2004, 07:19 AM

Good stuff as always! I'm interested to see what happens if McDavid starts the season 2-0 and Lyon is healthy.... What happens in Game 4?!I am still puzzling what to do, really. In the one start for Lyon, he made the mistakes that kept McDavid out of the starting lineup. Second, McDavid made some progress in his development and at least wasn't responsible for the turnovers (except an early interception).
Having an open weekend could make it even harder to make a decission...

MIJB#19

06-21-2004, 09:02 AM

Gossip News: Lyon back in playing role?
Rumors are not always the best resource, but we heard some interesting stories about Leonard Lyon seeing action in the road game at Fort Worth Fury, where the Maassluis Merchantmen hope to double their 2004 victories total. Lyon was reported to be taking over the holder duties from punter Roscoe Corrales. If so, Lyon could be considered fit enough to do the playcalling as well. Offensive lineman Russell Malave was cryptic on the situation: "Fort Worth is no top team, but they do have a pass rush to fear." We know that the Merchantmen are scared to put Lyon against a strong pass rush, but McDavid hardly impressed at Fairbanks. The Merchantmen are 1-1 because of the excellent defensive play, not McDavid's pass completing skills. Anyway, Lyon will be playing, though whether it is as starting quarterback looks like a locker room decission. The mismanagement continues, obvioulsy, they Merchantmen still haven't figured out who their all season starting quarterback should be.

MIJB#19

06-22-2004, 06:18 AM

I'll write an update tonight (local time), promise!

wade moore

06-22-2004, 06:37 AM

I'm VERY interested to see your roster decisions for next game... but I think I know what the decision will be...

MIJB#19

06-22-2004, 06:45 AM

I'm VERY interested to see your roster decisions for next game... but I think I know what the decision will be...It's really tough, especially since my next game is on Monday, not next Thursday, meaning I have even longer to think about it...

But like I said, I will write an update later today.

MIJB#19

06-22-2004, 01:28 PM

Maassluis At Fort Worth Recap
The tendency was made when people starting calling it insane that one of this team had to be 2-1 after the game. For both teams, a 2-1 record would mean an historical highlight to have a winning record for the first time in franchise history.

Early signals were that Fort Worth would be the team to get their history written. The Fury scored the first touchdown of the game to go 7-0 ahead on their first possession. William Wood ran for 28 yards. The score was set up by in interception from Wyatt Harness on a long pass from Justin McDavid in the first play of the first quarter.

Defense ruled the game after that, until a marvelous drive from the Fury early in the second quarter. Kendall Green connected 52- and 32-yard passes to Mouse Tail Perry to set up a 3-yard touchdown pass to Johnny Stegeman. With the Merchantmen hardly scoring, the game looked in the pocket. Even more after McDavid threw the ball in the hands of Harness fir the second time with ten minutes left in the first half.

After that, defenses ruled again and the ball turned over on punts several time, until the Merchantmen got the ball with less then five minutes left. Randy Harris made it his show as he caught passes for 22 and 21 yards, while running for seven and nine yards in between. After backup rusher Jonathan Smith converted a third-and-one situation, Harris scored his first touchdown of the season on a three-yard rush. The score was th first for Harris in 16 games. His last rushing tocuhdown came in week three of the 2004 season against the Gothenburg Giants.

With time running out, there were just 25 seconds left, Kendall Green went for a heroic attempt to try for another score. Sadly for Green, Ellsworth Thelen got his name written in Merchantmen history by interception the ball at the Fort Worth 39-yard line. With little time left, McDavid handed the ball to Harris to gain six yards. After a time out, kicker Cary Coles got his shot at scored a 50-yard field goal to shorten the Fury lead to 14-10.

After the half time show, the Merchantmen offense got wild. While the Fury saw their offense stopped early, Justin McDavid marched his men from their own second yard line all the way to the Fort Worth four-yard line. Harris scored again and put the visitor sin the lead. The Merchantmen then got their three-and-out to set up a drive that marched the Merchantmen into the Fury red zone.

As McDavid was again unable to find his favorite target Jerry Aubrey once again, the tandem hardly wroked all day, Cary Coles was brought on again. Coles' has turned into a reliable kicker and converted a 30-yard kick for a 20-14 lead at the start of the fourth quarter.

In the last quarter, the game became a defensive supremacy. Of the following eight drives, seven were three-and-outs. The only other drive had a penalty causing an automatic first down, or else it had been a defensive masterpiece as well. This returend the Fury the ball with only the last two minutes of the gme left.

In the two-minute-drill, Green rebounded and connected on a 14-yard pass to Stegeman early on. Then, with 33 seconds left, the Fury had to go for it on fourth-and-twenty. Green wanted to pass, but Charles Gomez broke through the offensive line and Green was hurried to pass his ball uncatchable. The Merchantmen ran out the clock, despite two Fury timeouts and won the game.

As amzing as it may sound, the Merchantmen have doubled their 2004 win total and are still unbeaten on the road. In 2004, they lost all eight road games. Randy Harris' two scores helped him earn MVP honors, yet his 72 yards rushing and 49 yards receiving were crucial to set up his own scores.

Now, the Merchantmen go into their open weekend at a 2-1 record, with the odds being that they have a playoff spot after the week four games. For the week five game against Tucker Tigers, two big questions are put back on the desk of the management and coaching staff. Jerry Aubrey's failure all day, he caught just one ball for 16 yards while he dropped two, pulls for a start of backup tight end Jim Reiser.

Second is the quarterback issue. Despite the two victories under McDavid, Leonard Lyon is expected to be recovered from a groin injury. In Lyon's absence, McDavid was hardly productive, he completed 32 of 62 passes for 321 yards, 1 touchdown and 3 interceptions.

Troublesome are the pass protection stats of the Merchantmen line. Against the Fury, Harold Hurtado and company allowed just 1 sack, but McDavid was hurried into a bad throw nine times. Against Fredrick, McDavid was hurried 6 times and sacked 3 times.

If this tenure continues, don't expect the Merchantmen to have Lyon at the helmet. The management has been clear that Lyon's starting would go hand-in-hand with the offensive line protecting the pass. So far, the line fails and "Fumblin" Justin has not fumbled at all this season in four preseason games and two regular season games. Lyon might be riding the bench for the winning Merchantmen.

MIJB#19

06-22-2004, 01:49 PM

European Division Breakdown
Maassluis got a big victory anchored by the defense, beating Fort Worth 20-14 on the road
Bordeaux trashed North Plainfield 20-3
Gothenburg rebounded by beating Syracuse 27-24
Paris lost their third straight road game, Telluride trashed them to 14-36

Standings
3-0 Bordeaux
2-1 Gothenburg
2-1 Maassluis
0-3 Paris

Schedule, next up are four interconferencial games:
Bordeaux host Orlando, who only lost to Huey Gervais and his Isotopes
Gothenburg move to Conyers, one of three unbeaten teams
Maassluis and Paris have open weekends

Projected standings next week:
4-0 Bordeaux
2-1 Maassluis
2-2 Gothenburg
0-3 Paris

Merchantmen GM Top Merchantmen Award
I have decided to make my own team MVP player award this season. Every game we win I will hand out 15 points (5, 4, 3, 2 and 1) to the five best players. In losing games, the top three best will get points (3, 2 and 1). In case of a tied game, I will hand out 10 points (4, 3, 2 and 1) to the top four players.

Week three stars
5 RB Randy Harris - 72 yards rushing, 2 touchdowns, 5 catches for 49 yards
4 LB Ellsworth Thelen - 8 tackles, 2 assists, 1 interception, 2 defended passes
3 DE Albert Bernardo - 1.5 sacks, 3 tackles, 1 assist
2 WR/RS Lonnie O'Reilley - 2 catches for 34 yards, 7 punt returns for 79 yards, 2 kickoff returns for 50 yards
1 K Cary Coles - 2 for 2 on field goals, 2 for 2 on extra point kicks, scored a 50-yard field goal

Overall standings
5 LB Cody Cluff
5 DT Charles Gomez
5 RB Randy Harris
4 K Cary Coles
4 WR/RS Lonnie O'Reilley
4 LB Ellsworth Thelen
4 DE Harold Wells
3 DE Albert Bernardo
1 OT Russell Malave
1 CB Tai Wayne

wade moore

06-22-2004, 01:53 PM

In all seriousness on the QB issue...

This is a very intrigueing situation to be in... McDavid's stats do not look great, and his ratings do not look great either... but, he is 2-0 and Lyon is 0-1. This is kind of like a Doug Flutie vs. Rob Johnson situation to me. Johnson is the prototype passer, good arm, etc. but cannot handle the rush. Flutie was in every way not an "NFL prototype-QB" but he just won. I will not attempt to compare McDavid's stats to Flutie, I know he had better numbers, but the point being that an "athletical" qb that can avoid the rush and produce wins, however ugly, is better than the prettiest QB that produces losses.

To me it seems that you may be in a situation where you have to play McDavid until he loses.

MIJB#19

06-22-2004, 02:04 PM

Gossip News: Merchantmen Offer Players And Chicken Out
Within 24 hours, the Merchantmen have put five players on the trading wire, only to be pulled of later on. Safeties John Cole and Percy Francis, and linebackers Britt Silvan, Sam Sasa and Roosevelt Whalen were called out to be traded away for draft picks. It is a secret that the Merchantmen were planning to acquire free agents linebacker Graig Hall and receiver Scott Dermanis as mentors to the young players at those positions. As the Chesapeake Chitterlings came up with the same idea, the name of Percy Francis has been wild. It is rumored that teams informed to get Francis, only to hear the Merchantmen changed their mind. General manager M.IJ.B. chickened out of negotiations with Rochester and Outer Banks, as our sources tell us. As usual, M.IJ.B. was unavailable for comment, yet we know better. Now, it is yet to be seen how happy the five players will be. Also, the Merchantmen have lost some credibility in their trading skills, yet it could be a trick to make other IHOF teams think that M.IJ.B. has lost the hasling power. Despite the relative amazing way he improved the Merchantmen roster this off season.

MIJB#19

06-22-2004, 02:11 PM

To me it seems that you may be in a situation where you have to play McDavid until he loses.I know and it's really scary...
It's McDavid or Lyon all over.
With McDavid's preseason stats, I think keeping him ain't stupid. I don't want to rush Lyon into another injury behind a line I am not very happy about. And critical is McDavid's sudden non-fumbling. Maybe it's the roll of the dice going his way, but I tell you, next Sunday and Monday will be about McDavid and Lyon as if the preseason discussion never happened.
Actually, I find it pretty amazing (and amusing) to see McDavid being the winning QB, even though the defense has been the reason why we didn't lose. If we can stop opponents in the red zone like we did last year, this defense could be more of a top10 defense then I expected.

I'd almost suspect VPI to reload the game to give the Merchantmen a 2-0 record with McDavid starting to get the story continued... ;)

MIJB#19

06-23-2004, 05:48 AM

Individual Statistics After Three Weeks
Offensive Passing
QB Just. McDavid _ 52% _ 160 yd/gs _ 5.2 yd/at _ 10.0 yd/cm _ 0.5 td _ 1.5 int
QB Leonard Lyon _ 43% _ 150 yd/gs _ 4.1 yd/at _ 9.4 yd/cm _ 0.0 td _ 2.0 int
RB Randy Harris _ 7 cat _ 60 yd _ 11 yac _ 0 td _ 1 drop
FB Vincent Lopez _ 4 cat _ 28 yd _ 8 yac _ 0 td _ 0 drops
TE Jerry Aubrey _ 9 cat _ 59 yd _ 16 yac _ 0 td _ 3 drops
WR Greg. Monti _ 6 cat _ 75 yd _ 2 yac _ 0 td _ 0 drops
WR Bryce Ewald _ 9 cat _ 107 yd _ 6 yac _ 1 td _ 1 drop
WR Lon. O'Reilley _ 8 cat _ 115 yd _ 2 yac _ 0 td _ 0 drops
LT Har. Hurtado _ 0 sacks _ 0.0%
LG Bruce White _ 1 sacks _ 0.9%
C Brant Heinrich _ 1 sacks _ 0.9%
RT Rus. Malave _ 2 sacks _ 1.9%
RT Wil. Grimaldo _ 0 sacks _ 0.0%

Offensive Rushing
QB Just. McDavid _ 52 yards _ 4.0 yd/car _ 0 td
QB Leonard Lyon _ 3 yards _ 3.0 yd/car _ 0 td
RB Randy Harris _ 209 yards _ 3.2 yd/car _ 2 td
RB Jonathan Smith _ 78 yards _ 4.3 yd/car _ 0 td
FB Vincent Lopez _ 12 yards _ 4.0 yd/car _ 1 td
FB Mark Burger _ 6 yards _ 1.2 yd/car _ 1 td
FB Vincent Lopez _ 3 krb _ 23%
TE Jerry Aubrey _ 1 krb _ 50%
LT Har. Hurtado _ 5 krb _ 25%
LG Butch White _ 4 krb _ 27%
C Brant Heinrich _ 6 krb _ 50%
RT Rus. Malave _ 4 krb _ 36%
RT Wil. Grimaldo _ 4 krb _ 25%

Defensive Passing
DE Harold Wells _ 2.5 sk _ 1 block _ 4 hurries _ 8%
DT Charles Gomez _ 2.5 sk _ 0 block _ 9 hurries _ 12%
DT John Bryant _ 0 sk _ 1 block _ 2 hurries _ 4%
DE Deon Chapa _ 0.5 sk _ 2 block _ 1 hurries _ 7%
DE Al. Bernardo _ 1.5 sk _ 0 block _ 0 hurries _ 3%

Defensive Rushing
SLB Ellsw. Thelen _ 2 pd _ 1 int _ 6 catches _ 21%
MLB Cody Cluff _ 3 pd _ 1 int _ 4 catches _ 22%
WLB Sam Sasa _ 0 pd _ 0 int _ 2 catches _ 18%
CB Den. Preciado _ 0 pd _ 0 int _ 4 catches _ 19%
SS Wiley McGhee _ 1 pd _ 0 int _ 5 catches _ 19%
FS Richard Muller _ 3 pd _ 0 int _ 7 catches _ 20%
CB Tai Wayne _ 2 pd _ 0 int _ 7 catches _ 19%
CB Des. Craig _ 2 pd _ 0 int _ 3 catches _ 21%

Special Teams
WR Lon. O'Reilley _ 82 yards _ 7.4 yd/pr
WR Lon. O'Reilley _ 111 yards _ 22.2 yd/kr
WR Devin Henson _ 137 yards _ 22.8 yd/kr
K Cary Coles _ 5 fg _ 100% _ 5 pat _ 100% _ 54 long
P Roscoe Corrales _ 808 yards _ 38.4 yd/p _ 38% in20

Team Statistics After Three Weeks
Passing Offense
Yard/Game _ 157 yd _ 24th
Yard/Attm. _ 4.8 yd _ 29th
Yards/Com _ 8.8 yd _ 25th
Sacks Alw. _ 9.7 yd _ 4th

Rushing Offense
Yard/Game _ 120 yd _ 15th
Yard/Carry _ 3.5 yd _ 26th

Passing Defense
Yard/Game _ 164 yd _ 9th
Yard/Attm. _ 5.5 yd _ 9th
Yards/Com _ 12.2 yd _ 27th
Sacks Md. _ 16.3 yd _ 14th

Rushing Defense
Yard/Game _ 100 yd _ 9th
Yard/Carry _ 3.5 yd _ 8th

MIJB#19

06-23-2004, 06:09 AM

Gossip News: All IHOF Tight End Aubrey Benched
The Merchantmen have pulled the trigger, All IHOF tight end Jerry Aubrey is about to be benched in favor of young promising Jim Reiser. The signs were there earlier on, when Reiser bloomed for the Merchantmen in preseason. Aubrey's failure in the road game at Fort Worth Fury was the last straw.
In 26 passing plays, Aubrey was targeted by Justin McDavid 7 times, yet Aubrey caught only 1 ball and dropped 2 passes. It's early in the season, but Aubrey's job seems lost. For the season, he did make 9 receptions, yet only managed to gain 59 yards and no scores, while dropping 3 of 12 good passes and being tagetted 26 times. The tough part is that Aubrey used to be starting quarterback Justin McDavid's favorite target. With Leonard Lyon making decission, Aubrey grabbed 2 passes for just 4 yards.
Young gun Jim Reiser was inked in as the starter by football experts, yet the Merchantmen staff showed loyalty to their only All IHOF first team selection. Reiser looks to have the tools to be a worthy replacement, plus has the popularity with the fans to attract some extra attention. Besides Reiser's catching skills being equal to Aubrey's, Reiser is the better blocker of the two.
That's fine and all, but the main issue remains unresolved. Top Merchantmen receiver Gregory Monti showed some exellence in the preseason, yet is not thrown the ball by McDavid. Leonard Lyon does connect with Monti, yet ignores Aubrey. Only if the starting quarterback can find the chemistry to connect with both players, the Merchantmen passing game will be better.
When Randy Harris leads the team in receiving yards, it must be a sign that even Bryce Ewald isn't the solution. The Merchantmen think they have capable receivers, yet the playcallers can't find them. Maybe they should take the time to allow Lyon to improve this season.
In stead of making their best player on offense a casualty of bad performance, the team should be grateful that the defense made this a 2-1 team. Quarterback or no quarterback, passing game or no passing game, this team will take a playoff spot. If only because they have an open weekend and the other AOC winning teams are facing eachother...

MIJB#19

06-23-2004, 06:18 AM

Merchantmen Starting Quarterback Named After Week 4 Games
The Maassluis Merchantmen management want to let the fans know that the recent results have put Justin McDavid back in the mix for another quarterback controversy. General manager M.IJ.B. explains the situation.

"At the season start, we announced Leonard Lyon as starting quarterback. At that moment, we made clear that only injuries could make him lose his job, and sadly, that could be the case. Justin McDavid's outstanding preseason performance has been noticed and we know the team is 2-0 with him starting. For now, Lyon remains as the number one, depending on whether his groin injury is completly healed. To sum it up, we will not name a starter for the Tucker Tigers game, until we know how healthy Lyon is for that game."

Additionally, the Merchantmen management want to deny the rumors spread by Gossip News (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showpost.php?p=503929&postcount=202) on the starting tight end job. As of yet, Jerry Aubrey remains as the number one tight end until further notice.

wade moore

06-23-2004, 06:59 AM

Gomez has really been an asset to the secondary this year... He is a large part of your #9 y/att average on defense.

MIJB#19

06-23-2004, 11:23 AM

Gomez has really been an asset to the secondary this year... He is a large part of your #9 y/att average on defense.Sorry, WM, I am not following, what do you mean by that?
Gomez is my DT superstar, what are you trying to say?
Honestly, I want to know what you mean, I am a bit puzzled.

What caught my eye just now:
Our defense is 9th in passing yards and rushing yards. :eek:

wade moore

06-23-2004, 12:21 PM

MIJB#19

06-23-2004, 01:15 PM

My reasoning is this:

He has 9 hurries and 2.5 sacks. So that means 11.5 pass plays that he directly caused bad results on, and you gotta figure the presense of him there changes the way the pass plays are run.

It goes to the idea that some sacks are caused by good coverage, but also that int's/bad passes are sometimes caused by good pass rush.

Make sense?Yes, it does, thanks.
I agree, Gomez (and Wells) are a big part of this defense doing so well as of yet. Though, the big test are still to come, when QBs like Joe Johnson (Bordeaux), Jamie Canter (Chesapeake), Wayne Christopherson (Orlando) and 'Aces' Glenn (Conyers) are up as opponents.
Aces Glenn, however, we held him to 96 yards and his total offense to 163 yards and 17 points (2 fumble return TDs!) last season. Yes, we lost that game, Fumblin Justin made 4 fumbles...

I'm almost starting to believe in the latest stories at NFL.com about teams investing in a pass rush as being the second most important thing after a good quarterback, it works in FOF as well...

And, it's not like my team hasn't invested in that already, 13% of the cap for 1 DE and 1 DT is a lot of money.

MIJB#19

06-24-2004, 08:07 AM

Merchantmen Defense Amazes League
It is early in the season, but after three weeks of IHOF action, one team has already surpassed their 2004 total of victories. The Maassluis Merchantmen have won two games straight on the road at last year's Mid-Atlantic Division winners, Frederick Red Menace, and the strong Deep South Division's last ranked team, Fort Worth Fury. What has changed about the Merchantmen, why did they improve?

First factor to be concidered is the aging proces. The Merchantmen had one of the youngest rosters, yet the young talented players got the chance to play and learn from their mistakes. Some players improved over the year, but espcially quarterback Justin McDavid looked better then ever, until he got benched.

Is it the addition of veteran players? The Merchantmen replaced both safeties, added a strongside linebacker and a backup defensive end to add some experience to the defense. On offense, players like Jerry Aubrey, Harold Hurtado and Vincent Lopez already provided experience. Yet, the addition of Wilson Grimaldo could be a major factor. Grimaldo is an upgrade over Russell Malave on the right and made it possible to move Malave to right guard as long as Alvin Causey is out.

Then there was the draft, where the Merchantmen added four players in the first round and two skill position backups in the later rounds. Cornerback Tai Wayne hardly allows catches as of yet and Brant Heinrich plays pretty well at the heart of the offensive line. Butch White is learning fast and only Leonard Lyon, the new quarterback is still a mystery.

Charm of the team is the defense. Again, it's early, but when a team ranks nineth in passing yards allowed and rushing yards allowed, you can't underestimate them. Even better, they rank in the top nine in yards per carry and yards per pass attempt. Maybe the opposition was too weak? Not really, Gothenburg, Frederick and Fort Worth combine for a 4-2 record outside the Merchantmen games. So what made this defense so great thusfar?

Suspect number one is Charles Gomez. In three games, Gomez had 2.5 sacks and 9 quarterback hurries. Add 5 tackles per game and you have a top of the league defensive tackle. League wide only one defensive lineman made more tackles. Gomez was an SI All Pro AOC Selection after the 2004 season. No wonder after making 68 tackles, 24 assists, 5 sacks, 5 blocked passes and 8 quarterback hurries.

Together with Harold Wells, Gomez forms an amazing left side of the Merchantmen defensive line. Upgraded with Ellsworth Thelen at strong linebacker and Albert Bernardo as a backup end, there is some oustanding pass rush haunting opposing offensive lines and their quarterbacks. Maybe this threat is the #1 reason of the third ranked passing completion percentage at just 44.4 percent.

The only thing still missingon the defense is the force of turnovers. With just two interceptions in three games, there is still some improvement for this defense. Once fumbles and interceptions start counting, this defense could become a big factor in the near future. And if the offense starts maturing, who knows, the Merchantmen could be championship contenders in 2006.

MIJB#19

06-24-2004, 01:54 PM

General Manager Notes
Our good trading partners from Orlando (the Alvin Causey trade) and the team we shut down at home last year, Conyers, yet undeservedly lost to, have made our day, beating our divisional rivals Bordeaux and Gothenburg with 37-13 and 38-13 respectively.
Too bad North Plainfield beat Telluride and Rochester bear Fort Worth, keeping us from a playoff spot at less then 1/4th of the season. Though, Rochester winning is always good news in Merchantmen management eyes, unless it's against us, so they are forgiven in our eyes.

For what it is worth, our defense ranks tied for fourth in yards per game allowed.
Due to the open week, we rank very high in most of the team stats. Second in both passing and rushing yards allowed, first in sacks allowed. Obviously, that does not take into account that we played 75% the games 7/8th of the league did.

European Division Standings
3-1 Bordeaux
2-1 Maassluis
2-2 Gothenburg
0-3 Paris

Upcoming Games
Bordeaux at Gothenburg - Is that good news? One of them has to lose and if we win, we either move past Bordeaux or make a gap with Gothenburg for second place. Bordeaux is missing their star running back Rashad Burse, so the odds go Gothenburg's way.
Paris - Play their first home game against Georgia. The two combine for a 0-7 record, thus one of them will stop losing on Monday.
Maassluis - We play Tucker, at home. The Tucker defense is haunted with injuries, yet their offense is at full strenght. We'll see if we can stop the top 5 rushing game like we did in weeks 2 and 3.

Projected Standings After Week 5
3-2 Gothenburg (beating Bordeaux doesn't look impossible)
3-2 Bordeaux
2-2 Maassluis
1-3 Paris

MIJB#19

06-27-2004, 03:45 PM

Tucker At Maassluis Preview
Maassluis versus Tucker, a game between teams currently in the wild card catch up race. The season is young, but losing a lot early will break up later on in the race for playoff tickets. Tucker were a last eight team in the 2004 season after a 9-7 regular season. The Tigers hope to do better then last year and to do that, the Merchantmen are just a small hurdle compared to their divisional fiels.

Man of the game won't be a player, but the Tigers new defensive coordinator Jerome Hodges. Hodges left the Merchantmen this offseason to move from the offensive to the defensive side of the ball. The Merchantmen management felt let down by Hodges.

Looking to the teams, things jumping out are the Tigers rushing game and the Merchantmen total defense. Tucker are run oriented and face a fast improving defense. The Tigers' roting backs should be warned about the improve run defense in Maassluis.

The Tigers' quarterback situation is even more troublesome then the Merchantmen's. Even not knowing who'll be making the calls for the home team next Monday. Gary Handy is expected to do the Tigers limited passing. Handy is comaprable with Justin McDavid, except that Handy is handy and doesn't fumble.

For Maassluis, the quarterback situation is still a secret. The management announced that McDavid would step in as long as Lyon is not fully recovered. Lyon isn't recovered, but with the Merchantmen winning with McDavid, the management is reconcidering the leading role for the coming weeks.

Where Tucker's offense is run oriented, their defense is not so strong against the rush. Randy Harris hopes to surpass the 100 yard mark for the first time ever against an injury plagued defensive front seven. That is if the defensive mastermind middle linebacker Lloyd Dye doesn't have a big night.

Crucial in this AOC interdivisional game will be whether the Merchantmen can stop the Tigers' rushing. In 20 regular season games, only twice the Tigers were held below 100 yards, with Conyers Condors jumping out with 66 yards. This season, Conyers were Tucker's toughest opponent again at 112 yards.

Maassluis' rushing defense is strong this season, they held two of three opponents below 100 yards. They did that three times in the 2004 season, including a 25 yards lowest against Columbus. Gothenburg's good old Jerry McGee, however, had 3 of his top 10 rushing outings against Maassluis. James Cull had his worst game ever against Maassluis.

Sadly for Maassluis, the guy that build the Merchantmen offense will be coordinating their opposition this time. Hodges should know the weaknesses, espacially of their quarterback McDavid. Lucky for Maassluis, they replaced three linemen with guys Hodges doesn't know yet.

We almost forgot to mention someone, the person that coached the Tigers to the playoffs. Spencer Opitz was replaced by Tucker and now coordinated the Merchantmen offense. Maybe this insider spy can return the favor and tell all about the Tigers' rushing game.

A game of a run oriented offense against a winning defense, dominated by staff members having left one team for the other. This is undoubtfully one of the most interesting games of week five of the 2005 IHOF season. Note the forecasted Dutch rain, expect a flooded field in the centre of Europe's biggest harbour. Let's see if these Tigers can swim...

MIJB#19

06-27-2004, 04:47 PM

Merchantmen Start McDavid Against Tucker Tigers
For the week five home game against the Tucker Tigers, the Maassluis Merchantmen want to announce that Justin McDavid will be the starting quarterback. This will be the third start for McDavid this season after wins on the road at Frederick Red Menace and Fort Worth Fury.

With Leonard Lyon not fully recovered from a groin injury, the management has no desire to rush Lyon back into play and see him go down with an agrevated injury. Lyon is expected to be fully recovered for the week 6 game against Georgia Gridlock. The 0-4 Gridlock look like the perfect match to return for the rookie quarterback.

Second, Justin McDavid has led the Merchantmen to two consecutive road game victories. Those were the first two in team history, yet McDavid was starter in the previous seven lost road games. McDavid's passing statistics haven't been overwhelming enough to make him the starter again.

If McDavid managed to lead the Merchantmen to a home game victory over the Tucker Tigers, and only if McDavid's passing stats are concidered a good showing, only then the management are reconcidering the number one spot on the depth chart.

MIJB#19

06-27-2004, 05:04 PM

Gossip News: Merchantmen Fooling Around, Again
The Maassluis Merchantmen management are starting to look like the Dutch national soccer team's coaching staff. Decissions are pushed back to be taken later and if they are taken, they are reconcidered after every little setback. Maybe it's part of being Dutch, but the Merchantmen players are getting worried.

Good thing, the Merchantmen defense has stepped up in two consecutive road games or else this would have been a complete disaster. But the issue remains, the Merchantmen have far from settled their quarterback controversy. One season, Justin McDavid is given the confidence for 13 consecutive lost games. The next they draft a quarterback in the first round. One day Justin McDavid blooms in the preseason, the next day Leonard Lyon is named started. The next week McDavid is starting because of a groin injury sidelining Lyon.

Fair enough, the Merchantmen had to draft a quarterback to make sure they can be taken serious. The call on Lyon starting from game one was unexpected, but made somewhat sense if the Merchantmen see him as their quarterback of the future. When Lyon went down, going back to McDavid was the only solution, but did make it another issue with McDavid having gone 2-0 as a starter.

But now, the stupidity is back, the Merchantmen announced to resolve the situation. People expected to see Lyon back, despite McDavid's fumble free performance on the road. Lyon's is almost recovered and could play with little chance on getting re-injured. Now, they push it back another game day.

Leonard Lyon will be having the game of the season against Tucker sitting on the bench. The weather forecasters expect a rainy day, making the ball slippery and fumble prone. With your rival being called Fumblin' Justin, there is no question he'll be starting next week. If not taking over mid-game.

MIJB#19

06-28-2004, 09:58 AM

Rain Big Influence On Maassluis-Tucker Game?
The Weather Girls' famous song has been the hottest hit in the Dutch harbour today, "It's raining, men, haleluja!" is what the Merchantmen fans are dancing on. With the Tucker Tigers focussing on rushing, the slippery grass in Maassluis asks for the pass-or-fumble game. Lucky for Tucker, the Merchantmen are starting Fumblin' Justin. With the game about to kickoff, people expect an ugly game and the latest over/under bets are at a game total of a lowly 20 points.

MIJB#19

06-28-2004, 12:43 PM

Maassluis Versus Tucker Recap
Seldom, an extra point kick after touchdown looked more like a formality like it did today. Cary Coles had a game tying 10-10 on his foot with less then two minutes remaining. Coles will remember this game like his worst nightmares, though one that came true.

The Merchantmen and Tigers defenses made the game a close one for the first 20 minutes of playing time. Not that both offenses didn't march forward, yet turnovers kept them from scoring. Justin McDavid was the first to toss an interception, but that had little consequences. Yet, just when Gary Handy was getting hot, he tossed his own interception near the Merchantmen's red zone.

In the Merchantmen's contra attack, McDavid seemed to get his men going, only to toss his second interception of the game. Lucky for Maassluis, Tucker's xxx Barnes fumbled on the next play and the score remained 0-0 two minutes into the second quarter.

Randy Harris ran wild, with 17-yard and 12-yard rushed, the Merchantmen moved forward, yet McDavid couldn't connect with his favorite target. Jerry Aubrey didn't catch and the Dutch team settled for a 27-yard field goal. That is, if it is converted, yet Cary Coles woke up from perfect kicking land and failed.

Moving into the last three minutes of the first half, Tucker got the ball back and a set of 9- and 10-yard passes by Handy moved Tucker in a 35-yard field goal position with two seconds left. xxx Waters survived on the rainy field and score for a 3-0 half time score.

The third quarter was another all defense show, with neither offense scoring, though the highlight of the quarter was a 36-yard pass from Hardy to Forrest Truett, who totalled 123 yards receiving for the day. Eventually, Handy got the first touchdown of the game in, connecting to Alvaro Mortenson.

Randy Harris got angry and ran wild for he home team. McDavid got his old fourth quarter coming from behind feeling back and kept the chains moving. Sadly, at third-and-two at the Tucker two-yard line, Jonathan Smith was stuffed. Cary Coles made up for his earlier mistake and converted the 21-yard field goal.

With both offenses consuming some time, yet failing, Tucker had the ball back with just over two minutes left. Just as Gary Handy looked to start the two-minute warning, he got sacked on third down. Even worse, Handy fumbled and Merchantmen defensive end Junior McKeehan recovered at the Tucker two-yard line.

Randy Harris showed why he was the offensive Merchantmen player of the game, converting this short yardage opportunity. Looking at a 9-10 score, Cary Coles could completly make up for his only miss of the season. But Coles choked, nerves broke in and he misses the extra point kick.

The Tigers got the ball back, looked reborn, converted a first down and ran the clock out, winning 10-9 on the road. Both Tucker running backs were held to below 30 yards, yet their fullback enmassed 52 yards in stead. In stead, Gary Handy set a Tigers passing yards record with 219 yards, while Forrest Truett set a receiving record with his 123 yards.

With the victory, Tucker move up to 3-2 and into the second wild card spot after five weeks of play. The Merchantmen drop to 2-2 and have wasted a shot at moving into first place in the European Division. Maybe this team isn't ready for the pressure that comes with the playoff race. Even upcoming games against 1-4 Georgia and 0-4 Paris on the road could be lost by this offense.

MIJB#19

06-28-2004, 12:58 PM

General Manager Notes
We lost a tight one, a game that deserved no winner. We stopped Tucker's run, but allowed passing yards they never had before. They stopped our pass but allowed rushing yards we are not familiar with.

Cary Coles made a case for why I anticipated to draft a kicker in the fourth round. Justin McDavid showed why I love to have him in the fourth quarter, but rather have someone else in quarters one, two and three. No question about it, Leonard Lyon should be the #1 again, though I am not 100% sure yet.

Week 5 European Division In Action
Gothenburg beat Bordeaux as expected at the absence of rushing star Rashad Burse. Jerry McGee led the Giants to a 20-3 trashing.

Paris looked worse then ever and were trashed by the 0-4 Georgia Gridlock in Mario Hudson's first home game. Joseph Schoen ran for 160 yards and 3 touchdowns in a 35-13 humiliating game.

Maassluis were unlucky in a game that didn't deserve a winner, losing 10-9 on a missed 27-yard field goal and a missed extra point after touchdown.

European Division Standings
3-2 Gothenburg
3-2 Bordeaux
2-2 Maassluis
0-4 Paris

Upcoming Games
Gothenburg - Get Tucker Tigers as visiting team. If the Giants are for real, this rush oriented game will be just another test.

Bordeaux - After losing two in a row, the open weekend is welcome. Especially to hand Rashad Burns an additional week to heal.

Paris - Play their second home game against Orlando. If "Joe the Shoe" can run for 160 yards, what can the league's number one rusher Israel Mars do?

Maassluis - We play Georgia, on the road. The Gridlock are 1-4, yet have a decent running game and a good pass defense.

Projected Standings After Week 5
4-2 Gothenburg
3-2 Bordeaux
3-2 Maassluis
0-5 Paris

MIJB#19

06-28-2004, 01:12 PM

Merchantmen GM Top Merchantmen Award

I have decided to make my own team MVP player award this season. Every game we win I will hand out 15 points (5, 4, 3, 2 and 1) to the five best players. In losing games, the top three best will get points (3, 2 and 1). In case of a tied game, I will hand out 10 points (4, 3, 2 and 1) to the top four players.

Week three stars
3 DT Charles Gomez - 9 tackles, 2 sacks, 1 forced fumble
2 RB Randy Harris - 84 yards rushing, 4.0 yard per carry, 1 touchdown
1 OT Wilson Grimaldo - 2 on 2 for key run blocks, 0 sacks allowed in 31 plays
0 LB Cody Cluff - 7 tackles, 2 assists, 1 fumble forced and recovered
0 P Roscoe Corrales - 374 yards punting, 46.7 per punt, 4 In20's, 50% in20

Overall standings
8 DT Charles Gomez
7 RB Randy Harris
5 LB Cody Cluff
4 K Cary Coles
4 WR/RS Lonnie O'Reilley
4 LB Ellsworth Thelen
4 DE Harold Wells
3 DE Albert Bernardo
1 OT Wilson Grimaldo
1 OT Russell Malave
1 CB Tai Wayne

MIJB#19

06-29-2004, 05:38 AM

Maassluis At Georgia Preview
The matchup of the 2005 IHOF draft's first selection overall is here. Maassluis ended the 2004 season at a league low 1-15 record and was rewarded with the first pick in the 2005 draft. In a surprise move, the Merchantmen traded the #1 pick to Astoria Heroes to get two first round selections and linebacker Ellsworth Thelen in return. Shortly after that, the Heroes traded the pick away to the Georgia Gridlock.

The Gridlock selected wide receiver Tyrus Shaye #1 overall. Shaye should improve a shaky passing game, yet thusfar the Gridlock won just one of five games. Against the Merchantmen, Shaye might face a fellow rookie. Cornerback Tai Wayne was selected twelveth overall to improve the Merchantmen's pass defense.

Other then that, this game is one of rookie quarterbacks. Georgia handed Tim Wilkes, a guy with a Dutch name, the starting role. So far, Wilkes completed just below 50 percent of his passes, yet trows for 750 yards in 4 starts with 3 touchdowns and no interceptions.

In Maassluis, Leonard Lyon is expected to return to the starting lineup after a groin injury. That means that Justin McDavid returns to the bench after three games in which the Dutch team won twice and should have gone 3-0. McDavid once again showed he can't get passes completed for more then one quarter per game.

Tim Wilkes should fear the pass rush. The Merchantmen defense is racking up pass rush stats like the top defenses and face a young and unexperienced offensive line that allowed over 5 sacks per game. In return, Lyon has a stronger line playing an also stronger front seven that misses their star defensive end Alonzo Millet. With the pass rush threat, it might not be wise to start Lyon.

This game could turnout into a rushing battle, with on one side Joseph Schoen and on the other Randy Harris. Schoen ran for 160 yards against Paris after four games of less then 40 yards. Harris is still waiting for his first 100-yard game on a pass oriented offense. With the Gridlocks run defense at 188 yards per game allowed, this could be that first triple digit game.

It might sound strange, but the Merchantmen are heavily favored to win. Sadly, the fans in Maassluis are not getting used to it yet and only saw their team lose this season. It won't change, because Georgia is hosting. Good sign for the Gridlock? Not really, the Gridlock lost their only home game to Tucker. The Merchantmen are amazingly unbeaten on the road thusfar this season. If the football experts are right, the Merchantmen could move to 3-2 and continue to be an early surprise of the season.

wade moore

06-29-2004, 06:00 AM

Good Preview.

Sorry I have not participated as much, but it has been hard enough to do my Dynasty and the predictions in IHOF.

MIJB#19

06-29-2004, 06:33 AM

Good Preview.

Sorry I have not participated as much, but it has been hard enough to do my Dynasty and the predictions in IHOF.No problemo.
I will keep on writing anyway, like I did before you adopted Justin McDavid as your IHOF hero.;)

MIJB#19

07-01-2004, 06:42 AM

Gossip News: The Sage Continues, Lyon or McDavid?
It's game day in the International House Of Football. The doormat of the 2004 season, the Maassluis Merchantmen have been better then bad and won two road games to sit at .500 percent after four games. For the game at Georgia Gridlock, the old issue has been taken out of the paper shredder and pasted together: Lyon or McDavid?

First of all, is this issue even worth being mentioned? The Merchantmen have a shaky offense and neither Lyon nor McDavid played well enough to deserve a starting role in this regular season. McDavid has a good preseason to look back on, plus he set several rookie records in passing last season. Records that Lyon hopes to break, yet he has to start the remainder of the season and pass for two touchdowns per game to do better then rookie McDavid.

The fans want McDavid. First, because McDavid is cute and his heroic fourth quarter play is charming. Second, because McDavid has turned out to be a winner. A bit like Thad Pilkington in the 2004 season. But Thad was benched recently and McDavid knows he's next.

Leonard Lyon is the better passer of the two. Let McDavid and Lyon toss 100 passes and Lyon is more accurate and throws the ball further away. Add offensive and defensive lines to the training and you'll recognize McDavid's tactical supremacy towards Lyon. Lyon gets sacked where McDavid scrambles or makes the needed steps left or right to keep the play alive.

I hear you think "McDavid fumbles the ball and the next play the opposing offense scores." That was the rookie McDavid. Have you seen him play this season? Three games, 116 ball touches, no fumbles. That's right, Fumblin' Justin has learned from his biggest mistake and holds the ball in his hands.

Lyon or McDavid, some owners in the IHOF laugh about it, they have two playcallers with more skills. Some owners are jealous on the fact that Maassluis drafted Leonard Lyon and still dare to bench him. Plus, McDavid could be a worthy backup for about five to ten other franchises.

Back to today's game, we heard that Lyon will be starting. Recently, the Merchantmen management have sent out a press release concidering the situation and made clear that McDavid could only keep starting if he had put up decent passing stats against Tucker. The Merchantmen lost and McDavid had his second worst passing performance ever.

McDavid is broken, he led his team to two victories. He figured that he got his job back, but then the management told him he was not even close to his old job. Maybe they asked for it, but McDavid did what he does best against Tucker. No show for three quarters, then putting his heroic face on and almost lead his team past the opponent. Almost.

Today, Leonard Lyon hopes to wipe away his bad showing in week one against Gothenburg. Lyon completed 43 percent of his passes for just 4 yards per attemts and below 10 yards per completion. No touchdowns versus two interceptions doesn't look much better. Compared to McDavid's 49 percent, 4.9 yards per attempt, 10 yards per completion and 1:5 touchdown-interception ratio, Lyon isn't much of a downgrade.

The Merchantmen hope that Lyon starts noticing Jerry Aubrey. Until now, tight end Aubrey was the Merchantmen's premier receiver, yet in Lyon's first start he targeted Aubrey just five times and connected just two passes for 4 yards with the All IHOF selection. People have been calling for Jim Reiser to step in, yet Aubrey bounced back last week with 6 receptions for 60 yards.

Perhaps Lyon's favorite target, Gregory Monti can keep the chains moving. Monti suffers from a bruised ribcage, but should be available today. Or else all lies in the feet of Randy Harris. Harris never ran for 100 yards and tonight should be his first time ever. That is, if Lyon does his job and the Merchantmen don't fall behind. Then, it's not unlikly that McDavid will step in and correct it all to finally make the issue resolved: Lyon starts, McDavid plays the fourth quarter. Would that be something?

MIJB#19

07-01-2004, 07:00 AM

Gossip News: Lyon Makes mistake To Get Job Back?
The latest rumor on the Lyon-McDavid sage is one to be a very serious issue. Remember the missed extra point and missed field goal from Cary Coles? The latest story is that Leonard Lyon explicitly made mistakes as Coles' holder to make sure the Merchantmen would lose and Lyon would get his starting job back. Of course, the Merchantmen managament will deny it, but the game tape is very clear. Lyon let the ball slip last second like a David Beckham penalty on both occasions, no wonder Cary Coles missed. We expect actions towards Lyon shortly. You read it first in Gossip News; If Lyon is benched after the Georgia game, it means the management has analyzed the tapes on the missed kicks. Unless they start analyzing why Justin McDavid all of a sudden stopped fumbling...

MIJB#19

07-01-2004, 07:16 AM

Merchantmen Will Not Suspend Leonard Lyon
The Maassluis Merchantmen once again want to distinguish from articles written by the Gossip News (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showpost.php?p=512857&postcount=221). We game film has not been further analyzed, but we don't expect to see purposly made mistakes by Leonard Lyon in his role as holder. Especially not to make the team lose and supposedly make Justin McDavid look bad.

Additionally, we want to make clear that Leonard Lyon returns to the starting lineup today in the game at the Georgia Gridlock. We do not give further details on the decission, other then the outcome of it. We wish the team good luck at Georgia Gridlock and hope to return to a winning record.

MIJB#19

07-01-2004, 12:49 PM

Maassluis At Georgia Recap
The Georgia Gridlock had an 0-4 start, the Merchantmen were 2-1 not so long ago. That was then. Today, the Gridlock went into their home game to get back-to-back vcitories over European foes, while the Merchantmen tried to avoid an 0-2 record against Georgian teams.

The first quarter was dominated by the defenses with eventually the Gridlock taking a 3-0 lead. It was the last play of the quarter that made the eyes blink, free agent rookie wide receiver Lonnie O'Reilley made a 31-yard reception count.

Going early into the second quarter, Randy Harris turned a pass from Leonard Lyon into a 22-yard touchdown pass. Cary Coles recuperated and hit the extra point for 7-3 up. On the next Georgia drive, Richard Muller intercepted Tim Wilkes' pass and returned it for 36 yards to go into the Gridlock's red zone. Lyon connected with All IHOF tight end Jerry Aubrey a few plays later for a 14-3 lead.

A few drives later, Leonard Lyon returned the favor with an interception thrown around the Georgia 30-yard line. Lyon could not suspect that Tim Wilkes would reach his receivers Marty Quinn for 21 yards and Efren Vanpelt for a 50-yard touchdown.

Going into the last minute of the half, Georgia had moved the ball all the way from their 38-yard line to the Maassluis' first yard line with a first down. Johnnie Moreau fumbled on the next play and cost the Gridlock some points. The Merchantmen escaped a safety three times and punted with 32 seconds left.

Joseph Schoen returned the punt, but fumbles as well giving Maassluis possession at the Georgia 44-yard line. With less then 30 seconds left, Lyon found O'Reilley for 11 yards and Randy Harris ran for five to help Cary Coles in position and the wanted ease thanks to time outs. Coles scored the 45-yard field goal to put the Merchantmen 17-10 up at half time.

In the third quarter, Maassluis hardly moved forward and gave Tim Wilkes their shot a a 78-yard touchdown pass to Darrell Mapp. But, on their own next drive, the Merchantmen showed what possession football is. A 3-yard run here a third down conversion by inches there and the clock got almost eight minutes ahead. Lyon made this his breakout game and found Bryce Ewald for a short touchdown pass.

In the following 15 minutes of football, neither offense kept things going and Maassluis got the ball back, still seven points up. Leonard Lyon looked like he thouht it was in the bags and from his own 20, he found the wrong hands in linebacker John Culpepper at the Maassluis 34-yard line.

What followed was some outstanding passing from Tim Wilkes, converted a couple of third downs to set up the 6-yard touchdown pass to Darrell Mapp. Maassluis got the ball back, but with the score tied and three minutes left.

On the next drive, the game could have gone both ends. On third and one, Mark Burger was thrown the ball. Burger advanced the one yard, yet fumbled and fellow fullback Vincent Lopez saved his butt. A 15-yard pass from Lyon to Ewald then moved the Merchantmen closer to field goal position in the two-minute drill.

Randy Harris won some yards left and right and Cary Coles was given the role of make the day again. Coles missed the 49 yard field goal kick as the Merchantmen had no timeouts to give him time to aim well. The Gridlock got the ball back, but the overtime was a fact: 24-24 end of regulation.

Maassluis won the toss, but failed. Roscoe Corrales got the ball to punt, yet heavily failed and kicked the ball just 27 yards forward to the Georgia 49-yard line. Tyrus Shaye made his play with a 22-yard reception and three incomplete passes later, Edward Wilkes got the chance to become the hero. 47 yards was the goal away and he scored.

Georgia take their second win and move far away from being winless. Maassluis drop their second close game against a Georgian team and sit at 2-3 amazingly just one loss away from first place in the European Division. Tim and Edward Wilkes, the guys with Dutch blood drew Dutch blood. And on the Merchantmen's white jersey's, blood stains are hard to miss...

MIJB#19

07-02-2004, 04:19 AM

General Manager Notes
Another close game that we lost.
Looking at some points makes me think we should have won, but stats like 346 yards passing allowed makes us deserved losers.

Week 6 European Division In Action
Gothenburg had a tight game against Tucker, yet lost 20-23 after Tucker showed an excellent drive in the last four minutes of the game to end the game with a last second field goal.

Bordeaux enjoyed a week off, giving Rashad Burse some great time to heal.

Paris lost 14-17, yetthe score looks closer then it was. Israel Mars ran for 130 yards and Paris' 7-17 to 14-17 score came with 23 seconds left.

Maassluis lost a thirlling game in overtime against Georgia: 24-27.

European Division Standings
3-2 Bordeaux
3-3 Gothenburg
2-3 Maassluis
0-5 Paris

Upcoming Games
Bordeaux - The 5-0 Condors are coming to Europe for two consecutive road games overseas. First stop is Bordeaux. Expect a tight game with Rashad Burse back for the Vineyards to come short in the rain to hand the Condors their first loss.

Gothenburg - Visiting the 4-2 Orlando Knights means that Gothenburg have yet enough tough opponent. But with Christopherson almost 100% fit and Israel Mars putting up alien stats, the good looking Giants could drop to 3-4.

Paris versus Maassluis - Paris leads this series 2-0 with two very close games in the 2004 season. General expectations are that this will be the game of two first round quarterbacks with the better one (Hudson) not overcoming the opposing defensive skills.

Projected Standings After Week 7
3-3 Bordeaux
3-3 Maassluis
3-4 Gothenburg
0-6 Paris

MIJB#19

07-02-2004, 04:28 AM

Merchantmen GM Top Merchantmen Award

I have decided to make my own team MVP player award this season. Every game we win I will hand out 15 points (5, 4, 3, 2 and 1) to the five best players. In losing games, the top three best will get points (3, 2 and 1). In case of a tied game, I will hand out 10 points (4, 3, 2 and 1) to the top four players.

Week three stars
3 FS Richard Muller - 6 tackles, 1 assist, 1 interception, 1 pass defended, 2 catches allowed
2 QB Leonard Lyon - 21 of 33 passes completed, 227 yards, 3 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 5 yards rushing, 1 sack
1 DE Harold Wells - 1 sack, 3 tackles, 2 assists, 1 fumble recovered, 1 pass blocked
0 TE Jerry Aubrey - 4 receptions for 39 yards, 1 touchdown, 1 key run block
0 FB Vincent Lopez - 2 key run blocks (67%), 2 fumbles recovered from teammates, 8 yards rushing, 3 yards receiving

Overall standings
8 DT Charles Gomez
7 RB Randy Harris
5 LB Cody Cluff
5 DE Harold Wells
4 K Cary Coles
4 WR/RS Lonnie O'Reilley
4 LB Ellsworth Thelen
3 DE Albert Bernardo
3 FS Richard Muller
2 QB Leonard Lyon
1 OT Wilson Grimaldo
1 OT Russell Malave
1 CB Tai Wayne

MIJB#19

07-02-2004, 05:02 AM

Lonnie O'Reilley: Undrafted Rookie Is Leading Receiver
The Maassluis Merchantmen management have made their mark as being trade-a-holics. One of the more amazing parts in their tradings was the removal of three quality wide receivers. Amos Collins, Frederic Vargas and Raul Marshall moved on and make themselves elsewhere usefull.

In return, the Merchantmen acquired two rookie receivers this offseason. Devin Henson was drafted in the third round as the 96th overall draft selection. Henson's ability to be a return specialist and his potential to become the number wide receiver did their work there.

The other rookie was an undrafted free agent. A graduate from Temple named Lonnie O'Reilley was already concidering to go for another career when all of a sudden his agent Wesley Walker called. Walker already inked a deal for Devin Henson and told O'Reilley he'd get a traning camp and preseason shot at outdoing veteran receiver Arnulfo Arnett to become the number five receiver and backup return specialist.

O'Reilley returned the call with pleasure. Playing for the Merchantmen is better then not playing football. O'Reilley amazingly survived camp, though it was reported that it was more of a salary cap move. O'Reilley was told he'd be the leading punt returner with Randall Smith traded to Paris.

Then, things went fast. Raul Marshall got traded and O'Reilley moved up to backup flanker and backup kickoff returner. Without much expectations, becuase he had just 2 receptions for 21 yards in four preseason games. Plus, his returning stats didn't look very impressive either.

First game of the season, an opener at home against the Gothenburg Giants. Lonnie O'Reilley is a lot on the field and is targeted four times by fellow rookie Leonard Lyon. O'Reilley grabs all four balls and racks up 51 yards on the day. In returning duties he has a 9-yard punt return and a 25-yard kickoff return. O'Reilley is in da house!

In the following two games, both won by the team, O'Reilley adds 4 receptions for 64 yards, 10 punt returns for 73 yards and 4 kick returns for 86 yards. Then, after the open week, the management have a dissapointing message.

"Lonnie, despite your stats, we want to give Devin Henson more playing time". O'Reilley was shocked, he had made his mark as the number three receiver and led the team in receiving yards. Henson got the nod and O'Reilley was limited in action to just one punt return, which was an 11-yard gain.

As Henson failed against Tucker, he didn't make a catch, O'Reilley was pushed up in the depth charts again and saw his favorite quarterback return as well. Lonnie was back and had 5 receptions for 72 yards against Georgia. He also added a 10-yard punt return and 59 yards on 3 kickoff returns.

After five games played, Lonnie O'Reilley has emerged into an amazing player. With 13 catches for 187 yards, O'Reilley leads the team in receiving yards. More impressive is that fact that O'Reilley has yet to drop a pass and saw just two balls trown to him go incomplete. Plus, he was there in the longest pass completion of the team this season.

Get this: O'Reilley is a very small guy at 5 foot 10 and 185 pounds. According to the team scouts, O'Reilley has little experience and hardly any potential to improve. The scouting staff gave him a zero out 1 to 100 in avoiding drops. This underrated and undersized guy is the leading receiver on a team with hots shots as Jerry Aubrey and Bryce Ewald. As soon as he starts catching touchdown passes, he'll become a valuable addition to your fantasy team.

wade moore

07-02-2004, 06:30 AM

2 QB Leonard Lyon - 21 of 33 passes completed, 227 yards, 3 touchdowns, 2 interceptions, 5 yards rushing, 1 sack

I do not have the game on this work machine..

How much was he hurried? I am interested in watching how well he does based on the pressure put on him.

MIJB#19

07-02-2004, 04:33 PM

I do not have the game on this work machine..

How much was he hurried? I am interested in watching how well he does based on the pressure put on him.The raw box scores are on the IHOF site. :)

But, to help you out:
Passing Attempt Comp BdThrw Dropd Defnsd Blockd Hurried Intrcpt
15 Lyon 33 21 2 2 3 2 1 2

According to this, I'd say he's ready to face Mario Hudson.

Hudson against Georgia:
Passing Attempt Comp BdThrw Dropd Defnsd Blockd Hurried Intrcpt
1 Hudson 26 12 0 2 3 1 6 2

MIJB#19

07-02-2004, 04:58 PM

Injury Report
For next Monday's divisional game against and in Paris, the injury report is as follows:
* DE Deon Chapa is fully recovered and will be back in the depth charts, yet Bernardo's play could put him in a backup role
* LT Harold Hurtado has a serious injury and is not avaiable. We'll likely move Grimaldo to LT and Russell to his old position at RT. McDaniel returns at RG.
* LG Alvin Causey is slowly recovering. He's rated as questionable, but we don't take injury risks, unless players have not been out or doubtful with the injury. We won't rush him in due to Hurtado's injury.
* C Brant Heinrich is injured, bu can play. Yet taking a risk to play his seems unwise and Tom Schwartz is likely to return to the lineup. Heinrich will serve as backup.
* LB Mike Kershner is injured again. That means that our two promising LB stars, Kershner and Cluff, are both probable. Both will start, but be watched very closely.
* DT John Bryant is recovered from the flu, yet will keep rotation with Andrew King as normal.
* WR Gregory Monti is still not 100% fit. We are concidering to start rookie O'Reilley against Paris' revamped secondary.
* QB Justin McDavid seems cured from fumblitis and is expected to be available as backup behind Leonard Lyon.

Okay, that last one was a joke, but I have to get some steam off me.

MIJB#19

07-04-2004, 05:12 AM

Maassluis At Paris Preview
It's there, a game that people have been anticipating for to see. The reason is multi-headed, so let's run them all down.

Reason number one: Wilson Grimaldo. Grimaldo, an offensive tackle, is rated as one of the best in the league. Paris wanted to deal him away and the friendship between the Maassluis and Paris owners led to a trade between the divisional rivals. Paris got draft picks and a new safety, Maassluis an elite player to play opposite all IHOF second team left tackl Harold Hurtado.

Reason number two: Rookie quarterbacks. In the 2005 amateur draft, Paris Musketeers selected Mario Hudson fourth overall to become their new franchise quarterback. With selection 31, Maassluis selected Leonard Lyon to be the Merchantmen's playcaller. This game marks the first head-to-head in the IHOF between the two in a possible years long series between them.

Reason number three: The first pick overall. They don't like it in Paris, but they are currently in the race for the #1 pick in the 2006 draft. That is, if they hadn't traded their first round pick to North Plainfield. The Merchantmen have made the same move, yet traded the pick after they were already assigned the top selection.

Reason number four: History. In the previous two meetings, the Musketeers won, but both times with a slim margin. In Paris, the Musketeers escaped with a 10-7 victory as Justin McDavid couldn't get his team over the 50-yard line in the fourth quarter.

Knowing the reasons why this game deserves attention, what's going to happen? Paris has by far the better players, yet Maassluis seem like the better team. So far, the Musketeers lost big in four of their five losses. Maassluis' only big loss was Leonard Lyon's debut in the regular season.

Hudson has recovered from an injury and is 100% ready to return in the lineup. So is Maassluis' Lyon, who missed three game due to an injury. Both are fit and ready, plus want to get their first career victory passed in. Chesapeake backup Ron Lyle is already 1-1 in two stars.

Hudson is facing a fearsome defensive line. Lucky for him, he's got a nice line in front of him, or is there? Hudson was sacked 11 times in just four games so far. Hudson's inability to read defenses could hunt him in that matter, yet he does seem to sense the rush and dares to scramble.

Paris' pass rush made a hit when Joe Teeters got traded to Syracuse, yet they still have their mean machines. With 13 sacks in five games, they have just one sack less then the feared Merchantmen pass rush.

Besides that, Paris' defense is very shaky. Teeters was a big deal and a revamped secondary with four new guys needs time to get familiar with the game plan. So far, their pass defense is not good and their run defense the worst in the league.

Good for them, Randy Harris never ran for 100 yards and the Merchantmen passing game has been just so-so this season. Jerry Aubrey is quickly aging and the hot prospects Bryce Ewald and Gregory Monti are outdone by a rookie free agent so far.

The Paris offense comes with a bad rushing game, but their passing offense looks far above average, despite have a rookie making the decissions. That is, if he's playing, because Eugene "Westcoast" Westcott looks sharp and in-shape to do the passing.

Hudson or Westcott, he'll be facing a pass defense that stops you all day, expect two or three big plays. Turn those plays into scores and you beat Maassluis. Their run defense improved a lot this season, so running doesn't look like a smart option. This season, they held four of the five good rushing teams they faced below the league average of yards per game.

The Merchantmen are Vegas favorites to win by six. The rosters with players point towards Paris. The team stats towards Maassluis. The history favors Paris. The outcome will be one that will be discussed about by their owners for a few more days. Counting on that, you can.

MIJB#19

07-05-2004, 07:06 AM

Irregular Interviewing With: Wilson Grimaldo
It's gameday in the International House Of Football. An interesting matchup today is the game between the Paris Musketeers and the Maassluis Merchantmen. The Merchantmen were 1-15 last season, Paris is 0-5 so far this season. But maybe the most interesting part in this matchup is a player who left Paris in a trade to go to Maassluis.

Wilson Grimaldo is the name. Usually he plays right tackle, but today he will be playing left tackle at the absence of All IHOF second teamer Harold Hurtado. Grimaldo will be playing against the team that drafted him in the first round of the League Draft in 2004, for the first time ever.

A few days before today's game, we had a meeting with Grimaldo before the trip to Paris to ask him about the interesting trade. We also asked him about his insight on the quarterback situation in both cities, his idea on the Merchantmen offseason activity and his role as mentor to Russell Malave and Jeff Fontenot.

Q (Questioner) - Wilson, in a few days you'll be playing your previous IHOF team, what are your first thoughts on the game?
WG (Wilson Grimaldo) - Tough question. First, I feel some sort of anger because the team traded me. But I also know why they did and looking now, Maassluis might be the better place to be to reach the playoffs.

Q - Playoffs? You're optimistic?
WG - Perhaps. The Musketeers are rebuilding, they traded Fabian Parker and Joe Teeters away and got little in return.

Q - The team traded up to get Mario Hudson.
WG - Hudson seems like a great passer, but I watched some tapes. He's not reading the opposing defenses well. He has the arm to win games, but is far from being a guy who can lead a team.

Q - And the Merchantmen's rookie Leonard Lyon is?
WG - As of yet, not really. But, I think Lyon has the team surround him to do well. With the offensive line they're building here, Lyon's weakness of not coping well with the pass rush can be masked. The inability to read what the defense does can't be masked. And that's Hudson problem.

Q - You mention the offensive line, the Merchantmen acquired four new linemen this offseason, Hurtado was traded in last season. What's your vision on that?
WG - Well, obviously they know what they're doing. Justin McDavid is a guy who can save himself. The Merchantmen obviously anticipated to get Lyon and a few pass protectors around him. With Alvin Causey and me in.

Q - And, are you liking it?
WG - Well, in Paris we had a great group of linemen. Here in Maassluis, it's more about Hurtado at the left, Causey and me as the veterans to teach the younger guys how to play. With young guys like Butch White, Brant Heinrich and Russell Malave we have six men for five spots. It'll be one heck of a way to keep motivated.

Q - Still, four new linemen, you can forget about cohesion.
WG - Sure, but they guys who were starting here last year, just Harold was ready to play and Russell is the only other guy with enough potential to become a quality starter. It was either a cohesive weak line or four new guys with talent. I guess the quarterback change made the last strategy the only way to go.

Q - What's your take on the other new players? You've seen Maassluis play before, you should be able to do that.
WG - Well, I knew some of the defensive playrs they had, but the new guys are all new to me too. McGhee and Muller are defensive backs. Thelen played for Astoria and Bernardo for Springfield. They're an upgrade to the defense, as far as I can tell, but they were 1-15, that shows something.

Q - The Merchantmen are 2-3 and both victories were credited to the defense. Do you feel resonsible for the three losses and weak play fro the offense?
WG - Well, I should. The same backfield and receivers were a better passing offense last season. Now the management adds better linemen, yet productions slims. But, I think we had our revenche at Georgia last week. We're getting there. And Paris has a revamped secondary with all new players, we should be able to get more then 14 points out of our offense.

Q - Last question. Wilson, a prediction for Monday's game?
WG - A Merchantmen victory. We're 2-1 on the road, we'll show you why.

Q - Thanks for your time, and good luck Monday.
WG - Thank you.

Darkiller

07-05-2004, 07:42 AM

very cool preview for our game...:)
Now, I'm angered at Grimaldo's comments on our rookie QB.

"He's far from being a guy who can lead a team".

Today will be the day Mario Hudson and the Paris Musketeers get their first win together !
I guarantee the win :cool:

wade moore

07-05-2004, 08:01 AM

MIJB#19

07-05-2004, 09:35 AM

DK, that deserves only one reply:

LOL @ Darkiller ;)

MIJB#19

07-05-2004, 11:24 AM

I think I forgot that the Monday games were rescheduled to Tuesday... :o

MIJB#19

07-06-2004, 06:53 AM

Maassluis At Paris Recap
The game promissed for an exciting matchup, with the visiting Merchantmen favoring to beat the Musketeers. After 60 minutes of football, it became clear that one rookie quarterback is still not ready for the big game. The Musketeers totally trashed the orange-white-and-blue: 31-3.

The game started with an amazing set of drives. The Musketeers had first possession, but were forced to punt and then followed a terrible showing for the two rookie quaterbacks. Maassluis' Leonard Lyon tossed two interceptions, each followed by an interception from Paris' Mario Hudson.

For Maassluis the tone was set, the team never prduced something good and had just one drive that got further then 24 yards. A 78-yard drive at the end of the first half that ended in a 36-yard field goal. The only score for the Merchantmen in the game to close the gap to 3-14.

Earlier in the second quarter, Mario Hudson had passed to Henry Gayle for a touchdown. Edward Boatwright had returned an interception for 67 yards and another score to put the home team 14-0 up.

In the third quarter, Leonard Lyon threw his fourth interception of the game shortly after Kevin Wiggins ran wild. Wiggins had a 43-yard run for a score to put Paris 21-3 up and making it a pass-all-downs game for Maassluis. The interception eventually set up a 45-yard field goal bu James Hunt to give the Paris' team a three touchdowns lead at 24-3.

In the last quarter, Mario Hudson surprised the strong Maassluis pass rush. That pass rush looked terrible all day, making just one sack and forcing just one bad throw. Hudson ran for 12 yards on a third-and-ten situation to improve the lead to the final score of 31-3.

For the day, Leonard Lyon was sacked and intercepted four times each, yet still managed to complete 22 of 39 passes for 208 yards. The offensive line totally collapsed at the absence of left tackle Harold Hurtado and the beching of Brant Heinrich. It ment only one player started at his usual spot.

For Maassluis, the days of possible victories are over after going 0-3 in the close games against Tucker and Georgia, plus an all time biggest loss at Paris. It is nothing compared to the next matchups. Conyers (5-1), Bordeaux (4-2) and Orlando (5-2) are far ahead.

The call for Justin McDavid is there, yet he's not the guy who can help his team out now. Leonard Lyon went 0-3 as a starter, McDavid 2-1 including the unneeded loss against Tucker. The results are in favor of McDavid, the passing stats of Lyon are better.

Lyon has 50 yards passing per game more and has 3 scores compared to McDavid's 1. On the other hand, Lyon had 3 interceptions more. The only other thing helping Lyon is that he completes 54% of his passes, 5% more then McDavid does.

But, to be honest, neither Lyon nor McDavid is capable of winning games. The defense has been the big key there and their luck has ran out. They stopped four of the better rushing teams, yet were humiliated by the 27th best rushing game.

And while the defense is weaker with a banged up Cody Cluff, the offensive line without Harold Hurtado looks like a big pile of jelly. This game showed one thing the people in Paris knew before this game: Wilson Grimaldo doesn't have what it takes to play left tackle.

MIJB#19

07-06-2004, 07:28 AM

General Manager Notes
If one things is clear now, it's that we have no pass protection without Harold Hurtado. Even though he's scouted as just a good protector, he didn't earn All IHOF second team honors for nothing...
The QB issue is back and even though McDavid was far from decent, at least we managed to win twice and lose the third game undeservedly. If only Lyon hadn't posted consecutive 200-yard games and tied the franchise single game passing touchdowns record in his second game (McDavid set it in his 15th start), I'd have it figured out by now.

Week 7 European Division In Action
Bordeaux managed the league wide touted upset of the week, destroying the Conyers 100% score with an amazing last second 56-yard field goal.

Gothenburg got totally destroyed, Wayne Christopherson and Israel Mars produced very little, but still managed to lead Orlando to a 34-0 victory.

Paris got their first win of the year against Maassluis with a 31-3 victory.

European Division Standings
4-2 Bordeaux
3-4 Gothenburg
2-4 Maassluis
1-5 Paris

Upcoming Games
Bordeaux - Going to Georgia means they have a shot at taking victory number five. Rashad Burse is completly recovered and ready for another 100-yard game.

Gothenburg - Have their week off. Or is that their second consecutive week off?

Maassluis - Have a hard mission, as they face 5-1 Conyers. Last season, the Merchantmen shut the Condors completly down, yet lost 17-16 on two long fumble recoveries for a touchdown, arguably the most undeserved loss in IHOF history.

Paris - In the winning mood, Paris are playing Tucker on the road. Tucker are heavily favored, but Paris is not without a chance there.

Projected Standings After Week 8
5-2 Bordeaux
3-4 Gothenburg
2-5 Maassluis
1-6 Paris

wade moore

07-06-2004, 07:34 AM

MIJB#19

07-06-2004, 07:43 AM

Merchantmen GM Top Merchantmen Award

I have decided to make my own team MVP player award this season. Every game we win I will hand out 15 points (5, 4, 3, 2 and 1) to the five best players. In losing games, the top three best will get points (3, 2 and 1). In case of a tied game, I will hand out 10 points (4, 3, 2 and 1) to the top four players.

Week seven stars
3 CB Dennis Preciado - 2 passes defended, 4 tackles, 4 assists, 2 catches allowed
2 DE Harold Wells - 1 sack, 4 tackles, 1 assist
1 RB Randy Harris - 43 yards rushing, 2 receptions for 10 yards
0 FS Richard Muller - 0 catches allowed, 4 tackles, 1 assist
0 LT Harold Hurtado - with his absence, it became clear the OL plays terrible without their leader

Overall standings
8 DT Charles Gomez
8 RB Randy Harris
7 DE Harold Wells
5 LB Cody Cluff
4 K Cary Coles
4 WR/RS Lonnie O'Reilley
4 LB Ellsworth Thelen
3 DE Albert Bernardo
3 FS Richard Muller
3 CB Dennis Preciado
2 QB Leonard Lyon
1 OT Wilson Grimaldo
1 OT Russell Malave
1 CB Tai Wayne

MIJB#19

07-06-2004, 07:47 AM

Question:

Have you thought to do roster print outs throughout the season to see how these guys are improving in their current potential? I would be very interested to see as it could have an affect on the decision..

It still seems like Lyon is worthless without a line. Whereas McDavid can atleast avoid the Int's and get some rushing yards when the line collapses, even if he gets less yards and TDs.I've been looking at the progress on a weekly base.
With dozens of files on my laptop, I can easily go back to season start and compare., Which i will do later this afternoon.

So far, DT Gomez and DE Wells are the biggest improving players, RT Malave and QB McDavid were two others I mentioned who improved. For the DE and RT, it kinda makes sense with mentors DE Bernardo and OT Grimaldo.

I'll let you know about it later.

wade moore

07-06-2004, 08:35 AM

I was specifically wondering about McDavid and Lyon...

Do you have a mentor at QB? If not, you need to get one and get these guys built up ;)...

MIJB#19

07-06-2004, 12:37 PM

I was specifically wondering about McDavid and Lyon...

Do you have a mentor at QB? If not, you need to get one and get these guys built up ;)...Actually, I've been thinking about it, but it seems I am not the only owner trying to get mentors hired. In the week of the commish being on vacation, I decided to get a WR and LB mentor, started trade talks and then found out QuikSand had the same idea and hired the two players a few days before I could work my plan out.

Anyway, the progress so far since the start of the season (before the week 1 games) for all players having changed (only experience is listed):
+2 QB Lyon
+2 QB McDavid
+1 RB Harris
+1 FB Burger
+3 TE Reiser
+3 WR Monti
+2 WR Ewald
+1 WR Henson
+2 C Heinrich
+3 LG White
+1 RG McDaniel
+3 RT Malave
+3 K Coles
+4 DE Wells
+1 DE McKeehan
+4 DT Gomez
+3 DT Bryant
+4 LB Cluff
+2 LB Thelen
+3 CB Wayne
+1 SS Gilmore
+2 FS Muller

Things to note: FS Muller was 42/42 at season start, right now he moved up to 44/44. I am not sure, but his intelligence (97) and volatility (86) could be a facotr here. He's the only one with improved potential.
The jumps up for DE Wells, DT Gomez and LB Cluff are the ones that get my attention.
This list also makes me more and more think I should bench Jerry Aubrey in favor of Jim Reiser.

Another list, is one with all the players that were on my initial roster after the league start draft (with experience and potential changes):
+10/0 QB McDavid
+7/0 RB Harris
+3/+3 RB Smith
+5/-1 FB Burger
-4/-5 FB Lopez
-3/-3 TE Aubrey
+13/-2 TE Reiser
+12/-2 WR Ewald
-9/-27 WR Monti
+11/-4 C Schwartz
+3/+2 LG Burdett
+5/-3 RG McDaniel
+1/-1 RT Fontenot
+14/+1 RT Malave
+15/+3 K Coles
+10/-3 DE Chapa
+17/+1 DE Wells
+10/+2 DT Bryant
+17/-1 DT Gomez
+3/-1 DT Jacke
+17/+1 LB Cluff
+3/-3 LB Sellers
+6/-1 LB Kershner
+5/-3 LB Silvan
+5/0 CB Alston
+4/-1 CB Schwartz
+8/-1 FS Francis
+10/-3 SS Gilmore
Note that WR Monti suffered a serious injury in the 2004 season.

MIJB#19

07-06-2004, 01:59 PM

Gossip News: McDavid Taking Over To Avenge Condors
One Day he tosses for 3 touchdowns, the other he has 4 interceptions. Leonard Lyon is more inconsistent then Justin McDavid has ever been. With a home game against the Conyers Condors on the schedule, the Merchantmen are once again weighing their playcallers. Let's see what will be crucial in the decission to go back to Fumblin' Justin.

Revenge. In 2004, the Merchantmen lost a home game against the Condors with 16-17. The game was marked by one particular stat, the Merchantmen fumbled six times, losing possession three times. The Conyers defense returned two of those fumbles for a touchdown. Mind you, the returns were 62 and 73 yards long. That day, the Condors offense were held to 89 netto yards passing, 2.9 yard per pass attempt and 74 yard rushing. Compare it: the offense had 163 yards, the defense returned three fumbles for 142 yards.

Harold Hurtado. Sources say that Hurtado could play. Other sources say that the league's strongest man Alvin Causey could play. We believe that Wilson Grimaldo played so poorly that it's more likely that the cautious Merchantmen staff starts Jeff Fontenot on the left. Doesn't that scream for another four sacks game? Who you gonna start? Mister "can't sack me" or mister "I think I just got hit by a 275 pounds bug". Did you know that Harold Hurtado had a great day against the Condors last season? Did you know that the latest comeback guys on the OL, Schwartz and McDaniel, both allowed a sack against the Condors in 2004?

Jerry Aubrey. One day you're awarded the best tight end in the league, the next people talk about retirement. Yes, it's not unlikely that Jim Reiser will take over against Conyers. Unless Aubrey can copy his 2004 game against the Condors, when he caught 6 passes for 76 yards and a touchdown and he added a key run block. He helped McDavid to complete 18 of 25 passes for 187 yards and a score without a touchdown.

Passing Yards? Leonard Lyon had two consecutive 200 yards games. Against Georgia his star blinked in the sky and he looked like the new guy. At Paris, he moved the team forward, or did he? 208 yards forward looks good, but what if you lead only one drive of more then 24 yards?

The fans. Well, it's clear who they want. McDavid is a fan favorite, Lyon just the guy who keeps losing like the old Fumblin' Justin. But McDavid learned his lesson, won't fumble ever again, or at least he didn't in the three games he went 2-1 this season. That includes a game the Merchantmen gave away. The fingers point to a guy then only seeing action as holder, Leonard Lyon.

And then something interesting to note, four long drives in the Merchantmen season. Note that the Merchantmen defense have not allowed any drive to last six minutes or longer. Note who was the quarterback in three of these four drives. Place your bets now, who will play Everett "Aces" Glenn?

One of the biggest drives of the season so far in the IHOF performed by Maassluis at Georgia:
Score: Georgia 17, Maassluis 17.
GEO 6 Wilkes kicked off 59 yards from the GEO30.
MAA 85 O'Reilley returned the ball 19 yards to the MAA30. Tackled by GEO 53 Clegg.
1-10-MAA30 (10:56) MAA 48 Lopez ran inside the left tackle for 1 yard.
2-09-MAA31 (10:34) MAA 15 Lyon pass completed to 81 Aubrey for 4 yards.
3-05-MAA35 (09:48) MAA 15 Lyon pass completed to 85 O'Reilley for 5 yards.
1-10-MAA40 (09:22) MAA 15 Lyon pass completed to 81 Aubrey for 14 yards (OOB).
1-10-GEO46 (08:34) Penalty: MAA - False Start.
1-15-MAA49 (08:26) MAA 28 Harris ran around left end for 3 yards.
2-12-GEO48 (08:05) MAA 29 Burger ran inside the right guard for 3 yards.
3-09-GEO45 (07:42) MAA 15 Lyon pass completed to 85 O'Reilley for 9 yards.
1-10-GEO36 (07:01) MAA 15 Lyon pass completed to 83 Henson for 18 yards.
1-10-GEO18 (06:25) MAA 28 Harris ran around left end for 3 yards.
2-07-GEO15 (05:47) MAA 15 Lyon pass completed to 80 Monti for 5 yards.
3-02-GEO10 (05:02) MAA 48 Lopez ran around the left tackle for 2 yards.
1-08-GEO08 (04:38) MAA 28 Harris ran inside the right guard for 3 yards.
2-05-GEO05 (04:12) MAA 28 Harris ran around left end for 2 yards.
3-03-GEO03 (03:28) MAA 15 Lyon pass completed to 87 Ewald for 3 yards and a touchdown!
Extra point by MAA 18 Coles was good.
Score: Maassluis 24, Georgia 17.

Justin McDavid and co. in a big drive in Merchantmen history at home against Tucker:
Score: Tucker 10, Maassluis 0.
TUC 10 Waters kicked off 73 yards from the TUC30.
MAA 83 Henson returned the ball 21 yards to the MAA18. Tackled by TUC 39 Davis.
1-10-MAA18 (12:21) MAA 28 Harris ran inside the left guard for 17 yards.
1-10-MAA35 (11:53) MAA 28 Harris ran inside the left tackle for 5 yards.
2-05-MAA40 (11:06) MAA 28 Harris ran inside the left tackle for 1 yard.
3-04-MAA41 (10:41) MAA 40 Smith ran around left end for 11 yards.
1-10-TUC48 (10:04) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 48 Lopez for 12 yards (OOB).
1-10-TUC36 (09:16) MAA 3 McDavid ran a draw for 8 yards.
2-02-TUC28 (08:41) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 81 Aubrey for 6 yards.
1-10-TUC22 (07:59) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 86 Reiser for 2 yards. Penalty: TUC - Defensive Holding.
1-10-TUC17 (07:51) MAA 28 Harris ran inside the left tackle for 5 yards.
2-05-TUC12 (07:11) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 48 Lopez for 6 yards.
1-06-TUC06 (06:43) MAA 3 McDavid pass fell incomplete, intended for 83 Henson.
2-06-TUC06 (06:38) MAA 28 Harris ran inside the left guard for 4 yards.
3-02-TUC02 (06:21) MAA 40 Smith ran around the left tackle for -2 yards.
4-04-TUC04 (05:59) MAA 18 Coles attempted a 21 yard field goal and succeeded.
Score: Maassluis 3, Tucker 10.

Two marvelous scoring drives from Maassluis at Frederick, amazingly both were the first drive for the Merchantmen in that half:
4-10-FRE25 (13:55) FRE 15 Funches punted 47 yards from the FRE25. MAA 85 O'Reilley returned the ball -1 yards to the MAA27. Tackled by FRE 38 Wickman.
1-10-MAA27 (13:47) MAA 28 Harris ran around the left tackle for 2 yards.
2-08-MAA29 (13:13) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 48 Lopez for 11 yards.
1-10-MAA40 (12:36) MAA 3 McDavid sacked by FRE 92 Kerrigan and FRE 71 Volk for a loss of 5 yards.
2-15-MAA35 (12:11) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 29 Burger for 3 yards.
3-12-MAA38 (11:24) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 80 Monti for 14 yards.
1-10-FRE48 (10:51) MAA 40 Smith ran around left end for 2 yards (OOB).
2-08-FRE46 (10:19) MAA 28 Harris ran around the left tackle for 12 yards (OOB).
1-10-FRE34 (09:45) MAA 40 Smith ran inside the left tackle for 3 yards.
2-07-FRE31 (09:04) MAA 28 Harris ran inside the left guard for 6 yards.
3-01-FRE25 (08:28) MAA 40 Smith ran outside the right tackle for 3 yards.
1-10-FRE22 (07:49) MAA 3 McDavid pass was blocked at the line, intended for 81 Aubrey.
2-10-FRE22 (07:42) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 87 Ewald for 22 yards and a touchdown!
Extra point by MAA 18 Coles was good.
Score: Maassluis 7, Frederick 0.

Beginning of Third Quarter.
Score: Frederick 7, Maassluis 17.
FRE 3 Poston kicked off 74 yards from the FRE30.
MAA 83 Henson returned the ball 27 yards to the MAA23. Ball was fumbled and recovered by MAA 84 Martins for 1 yard to the MAA24.
1-10-MAA24 (14:42) MAA 40 Smith ran inside the left tackle for 2 yards.
2-08-MAA26 (14:04) MAA 28 Harris ran outside the right tackle for 2 yards.
3-06-MAA28 (13:40) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 85 O'Reilley for 10 yards.
1-10-MAA38 (12:55) MAA 28 Harris ran around left end for 4 yards.
2-06-MAA42 (12:27) MAA 40 Smith ran inside the right guard for 3 yards.
3-03-MAA45 (12:03) MAA 28 Harris ran a draw inside the right guard for 13 yards.
1-10-FRE42 (11:26) MAA 28 Harris ran inside the left tackle for 1 yard.
2-09-FRE41 (11:02) MAA 28 Harris ran around the left tackle for 11 yards (OOB).
1-10-FRE30 (10:39) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 28 Harris for 4 yards.
2-06-FRE26 (09:54) MAA 28 Harris ran inside the left guard for 2 yards.
3-04-FRE24 (09:07) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 81 Aubrey for 7 yards.
1-10-FRE17 (08:25) MAA 3 McDavid pass completed to 80 Monti for 2 yards. Penalty: FRE - Illegal Contact.
1-10-FRE12 (08:20) MAA 48 Lopez ran inside the right tackle for 12 yards and a touchdown.
Extra point by MAA 18 Coles was good.
Score: Maassluis 24, Frederick 7.