Iowa Barnstormers 2008: On the Trail of a Killer [Archive]

Grid Iron

04-15-2004, 08:44 AM

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Dynasty Overview

The purpose of the Iowa City Barnstormers Dynasty is to tell a compelling and intriguing story using EA Sports Front Office Football (http://fof2forever.com) (FOF2) as the backdrop. The stats are real, the story is not.

To catch up on the story so far, go to the following links:

Iowa Barnstormers Prologue (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=22908)
Iowa Barnstormers 2003: Thunder in the Sky (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=22932)
Iowa Barnstormers 2004: A New Threat (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=23281)
Iowa Barnstormers 2005: Compromised (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=23486)
Iowa Barnstormers 2006: Quality Control (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=23718)
Iowa Barnstormers 2007: The Unexpected Hitchhiker (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=24108)

House Rules (Updated 3/12/04!)

I employ a fairly rigorous set of "house rules" (no real NFL players, no franchise tag, must maintain a 53-man roster, no renegotiating, can't make trade proposals except during the draft, trades must pass "fairness test", auto-sign rookies). During the 20-step free agent period, I may negotiate with any player who was on my team the previous season without restriction. As for free agents who did not play on my team the previous season, I may sign up to three of them during the 20-step process, but only one in the first 10 rounds. After the 20-step free agency period, I can only sign undrafted rookie free agents and players who were on my roster the previous season. All contracts signed outside of the 20-step process must be for exactly what the player asks, or for one year. Last, all multi-year deals must include a signing bonus equal to the highest year of the contract, unless I accept the player’s initial offer.

Grid Iron

04-15-2004, 08:47 AM

To: [email protected]
Date: January 1, 2008
Subject: Dr. Livingston Murder
From: [email protected]

Tom,

Good work on the Livingston case. Now that we know it wasn't a suicide, we need to find the killer.

You leave for Peru tonight. . .

Grid Iron

04-15-2004, 07:30 PM

<h2>Team Loses $25.7 Million</h2><h3>Barnstormers impose modest ticket price increase</h3> January 10, 2008

Iowa City, IA (Ticker) – Barnstormers owner Ben Cleveland announced today that ticket prices will be increased 5% for the upcoming season to make up for a $25.7 million loss from the 2007 season. “We took a big hit last year by paying $40 million in player bonuses,” said Cleveland. “That was a 97% jump from the previous year.” Cleveland added that the price increase affects all seats and luxury boxes, but excludes the Upper Deck. “Those seats have been $35 since the day this franchise was born, and we’re going to keep it that way for as long as possible.”

Grid Iron

04-15-2004, 07:50 PM

<h2>Presidential Nominee Pushes Space Program</h2><h3>Missouri Governor wants Mars landing by 2019</h3> January 15, 2008

Johnson Space Center, TX (AP) – Speaking to a contingent of cheering NASA scientists and engineers today, Missouri’s Republican Governor Gordon Smith said space travel would be a “top priority” if elected President in the coming November election. “Exploration and discovery has always been a catalyst for the greatest technological development and a source of national pride,” said Gordon. “This country needs a goal behind which every American can be proud—and that is to put men and women on the Red Planet.”

Smith, a former Air Force Colonel, dismissed his critics who point to the Space Station Disaster in 2006 which killed 10 crew members as evidence that the world is not ready to travel to other planets. “We’ll always have setbacks,” Smith said. “That shouldn’t be a reason to run and hide—those tragedies should push us even harder to reach for the stars.” “Otherwise, the deaths of those great people will have been in vain.”

Grid Iron

04-15-2004, 08:08 PM

<h2>Two Legends Immortalized</h2><h3>Emmitt Smith, Randall Cunningham inducted into Hall of Fame</h3> January 16, 2008

Canton, OH (AP) – Two legends of the game were inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame today among a crowd of rejoicing fans. “These two men set a new standard in professionalism,” said Commissioner Paul Tagliabue. “Their accomplishments will be remembered for eternity.”

<IMG SRC="http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/smith1.gif" hspace=5 border=1 ALIGN=RIGHT>Running back Emmitt Smith, who was selected with 84% of the vote, played his entire 14-year career with the Dallas Cowboys. He currently holds the NFL record for rushing touchdowns with 150, and ranks second all-time with 16,830 rushing yards. “This is fantastic,” said Smith, who made the playoffs 10 times and won three Super Bowls. “This honor means so much to me, I just can’t put it into words.”

Also inducted was quarterback Randall Cunningham, chosen with 92% of the vote. Cunningham played 18 years in the NFL, his first 11 with Philadelphia and his final seven with the Vikings. In that time, he threw for 43,129 yards, 299 touchdowns and 184 interceptions. Cunningham made the playoffs in 13 of his 18 seasons and was named league MVP in 1999 when he threw for 3,898 yards, 31 touchdowns and just 11 interceptions.

tucker342

04-15-2004, 08:53 PM

Great stuff, keep it up!:)

Grid Iron

04-16-2004, 07:33 PM

Great stuff, keep it up!:)

Thanks! More coming up tonight and Saturday. . .

Grid Iron

04-16-2004, 08:29 PM

<h2>Iowa Signs Top OT</h2><h3>Barnstormers snub receiver Geoff Wynn</h3> February 1, 2008

<IMG SRC="http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/adams1.gif" hspace=5 border=1 ALIGN=RIGHT>Iowa City, IA (Ticker) – The Barnstormers jumped into the free agency market head first today, inking All-League left tackle Derrick Adams to a three-year $19.0 million contract that includes a $5 million bonus. “Derrick is going to be the rock of our offensive line,” said team GM Grid Iron of a unit that allowed 38 sacks last season. “He is one of the best in the league.”

Standing 6’1” and weighing 311 pounds, Adams was selected by Atlanta in the first round (12th overall) of the 2002 draft out of Michigan. Adams was named All-League First Team last year after making 30 key run blocks in 74 opportunities (40.5%).

To make the signing possible, the Barnstormers declined to make an offer to the talented, but often injured, wide receiver Geoff Wynn. Wynn, selected 10th overall in 2000 draft by Tampa Bay, signed a three-year $18.3 million contract with Iowa in 2005. At the time of the signing, Wynn had put together four consecutive 1,000-yard seasons and had never missed a start. In his three years with Iowa, Wynn missed 15 regular season games due to injury and averaged just 715.3 yards per season.

“We really expected more from Geoff,” said head coach Travis O’Donnell of Wynn, who signed with the Denver Broncos for $22.62 million over four years. “I love Geoff, but our priority right is solidifying our offensive line.”

Grid Iron

04-16-2004, 08:41 PM

To: [email protected]
Date: February 4, 2008
Subject: Dr. Livingston Murder
From: [email protected]

We've confirmed that Livingston was definitely murdered here.

We searched his faculty residence when we arrived and the CSI team found some trace blood stains underneath his desk. The stains tested positive for Livingston's DNA.

The CSI guys believe Livingston was laying or sitting on the ground near the table when he was shot, spattering blood underneath the table. The killer probably didn't think to clean under there, so the blood soaked into the soft pine wood. . .

Grid Iron

04-17-2004, 12:22 PM

<h2>The Empire Strikes Back!</h2><h3>Rebuffed by Oakland, Al Davis moves Raiders to Syracuse</h3> February 20, 2008

<IMG SRC="http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/davis1.gif" hspace=5 border=1 ALIGN=RIGHT>Oakland, CA (AP) – In a shocking turn of events, Oakland Raiders owner Al Davis announced today that the team will be leaving the Bay Area in 2013 to play in Syracuse, New York. “I can’t possibly stay here and keep losing money like this,” Davis said at a press conference. “The people of Syracuse are real fans of the game and have welcomed us with open arms.”

The Raiders had been lobbying the City of Oakland for a new stadium for several years, but were rebuffed every time. The most recent vote occurred in 2007 and the Raiders’ stadium proposal was rejected by a 65% to 35% margin. Following the failure of the ballot proposal, Davis pitched his team to the highest bidder, with Syracuse winning the competition.

Grid Iron

04-17-2004, 12:31 PM

<h2>Smith Wins Nomination</h2><h3>Missouri Governor named Republican Presidential Candidate</h3> March 30, 2008

St. Louis, MO (Reuters) – Missouri Governor Gordon Smith accepted the Republican party's nomination for the upcoming 2008 Presidential Election. "I'm delighted by the opportunity and I have no doubt that the Republican Party will be in the White House for another eight years," he said at a news conference. "I've got a lot of plans to make this great country even better."

One of Smith's plans is a controversial manned mission to Mars. "Exploration is fundamental to human existence," he said. "It drives us, and pushes us to the limits of our capabilities."

Grid Iron

04-17-2004, 12:37 PM

<h2>Iowa Solidifies O-Line</h2><h3>Barnstormers select UC Davis lineman in first round</h3> April 26, 2008

<IMG SRC="http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/woody1.gif" hspace=5 border=1 ALIGN=right>"Iowa City, IA (Ticker) – Iowa GM Jack “Grid” Iron continued his effort to bolster the Barnstormers’ offensive line by selecting UC Davis guard Marshall Woody with the 26th overall selection in the 2008 draft. “He’s a beast, plain and simple,” said Iron of the 6’5, 350 pound lineman. “He’s All-League quality, no doubt about it.”

Going to a Provisional I-AA school, no one thought I would be a first round pick," said Woody, who had a 50% blocking percentage with the Aggies last season and didn't allow a sack. "I'm glad I'm getting the opportunity to show what I can do at the next level."

Sources indicate that Woody will sign a three-year $8.51 million contract tommorrow that includes a $2.56 million signing bonus.

Grid Iron

04-17-2004, 12:51 PM

To: [email protected]
Date: May 1, 2008
Subject: Dr. Livingston Murder
From: [email protected]

The forensic computer analysts have recovered the digital audio log of Dr. Livingston from his computer. The last entry was December 31, 2004, and contains a recording of his murder. It appears that the killer didn't know the recorded was on.

It ends with the killer telling Livingston he wanted his "identity." Presumably, the man we're looking for assumed Livingston's identity after killing him. We're looking for plastic surgeons here who might have some information.

You can read the transcript of Livingston's final log entry here (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=23281#transcript).

I'll be leaving for Cal Tech in two weeks to look for more more leads. We have to assume the killer is still out there. . .

Grid Iron

04-17-2004, 01:13 PM

<h2>2008 Season Preview</h2>July 10, 2008

Iowa City, IA (ESPN) – Four straight playoff appearances, four straight frustrating playoff losses. Will this year be any different for the Iowa Barnstormers? Team general manager Jack “Grid” Iron seems to think so. “We’ve really bolstered the offensive line, which should give our QB more time to throw and open up some space for the running backs.”

With the departure of Geoff Wynn to the Denver Broncos via free agency, Jorge Ellison now becomes the team’s go-to receiver. The 2006 Offensive Rookie of the Year showed strong improvement in his sophomore campaign, catching 62 passes for 925 yards and six touchdowns. “I think this is the year I’ll break 1,000 yards,” said a confident Ellison. “We definitely have the talent on this team to light up the scoreboard.”

The Barnstormers’ tough defensive line should make it difficult for opponents to run and will pressure quarterbacks into making mistakes. Defensive tackle Cedric Brown and defensive ends Brock Darlington and Stephen Bonham combined for 35 sacks last year and were crucial to the team holding opponents to just 111.8 rushing yards per game (12th).

“If we can stay healthy, this team can go far,” said starting quarterback Roman Roberts. “We’re so close, we can all feel it.”

Here is the complete Barnstormers schedule:

Week 1 SEATTLE SEAHAWKS
Week 2 KANSAS CITY CHIEFS
Week 3 Indianapolis Colts
Week 4 GREEN BAY PACKERS
Week 5 San Diego Chargers
Week 6 Oakland Raiders
Week 7 Denver Broncos
Week 8 BUFFALO BILLS
Week 9 DETROIT LIONS
Week 10 OPEN
Week 11 SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
Week 12 Kansas City Chiefs
Week 13 DENVER BRONCOS
Week 14 Tampa Bay Bucanneers
Week 15 Seattle Seahawks
Week 16 OAKLAND RAIDERS
Week 17 Chicago Bears

Grid Iron

04-17-2004, 01:26 PM

To: [email protected]
Date: July 15, 2008
Subject: Dr. Livingston Murder
From: [email protected]

Bingo! We finally had a breakthrough! We've been searching Livington's office and residence at Cal Tech with a fine-toothed comb, but didn't find a single fingerprint of our unknown killer. The boys in Texas didn't find anything in his office at NASA either.

This guy is good - he did a great job of covering his tracks. Fortunately for us, however, he missed one thing. Tests!

We contacted every student in the imposter's classes and got their final exams. Most of them had the tests sitting in boxes in their garages, so we were hopeful that if he left any prints on the exams he graded, they would be well preserved.

Well, we got 10 different exams that had the same unidentified fingerprints. We're running the prints through the national database and forwarding them to the primary law enforcement agencies in all 50 states. Hopefully, we'll come up with something.

Grid Iron

04-17-2004, 02:00 PM

<h2>NFL Weeks 1-4</h2>Week 1: Barnstormers (0-0) (-9) vs. Seahawks (0-0)

Iowa free safety Gilbert Coady had four tackles, two interceptions and one pass broken up as the Barnstormers cruised to a 35-7 victory over the Seahawks.

In related news, Broncos wide receiver Geoff Wynn, who signed a lucrative free agent contract with Denver this year after three injury-plagued seasons with Iowa, suffered a severe hamstring pull and will miss the entire season. :D

Week 2: Barnstormers (1-0) (-6) vs. Chiefs (1-0) 

Iowa quarterback Roman Roberts left early with a bruised shoulder and his backup, fourth-year QB Mel Brandon, struggled as the Barnstormers lost to the Chiefs 20-17. Roberts is officially listed as questionable for next week, but he insists he will start.

Week 3: Barnstormers (1-1) at Colts (1-1) (-1) 

Running back Friendship Lofton was named Offensive Player of the Week after rushing for 175 yards and scoring three touchdowns (2 rush, 1 rec), as the Barnstormers held on to beat the Colts 28-26. Quarterback Roman Roberts aggravated his bruised shoulder and will now miss 3-5 weeks.

Week 4: Barnstormers (2-1) (-5) vs. Packers (1-2) 

Despite throwing three interceptions, backup QB Mel Bradon orchestrated a 70-yard touchdown drive in the closing minutes to set up kicker Jim Lane’s 27-yard game winning field goal with :37 on the clock as the Barnstormers rallied to beat the Packers 24-21.

1/4 Season Review

At 3-1, the Barnstormers are in the AFC West title hunt. However, the loss of All-League quarterback Roman Roberts to a bruised shoulder may put the team's chance for success in jeopardy.

Here are the current AFC West standings:

<pre>AFC West W L T Pct PF PA Div Conf Kansas City 3 0 0 1.000 86 29 2-0-0 2-0-0 Oakland 4 0 0 1.000 86 56 1-0-0 2-0-0 Iowa City 3 1 0 .750 104 74 1-1-0 2-1-0 Denver 2 2 0 .500 76 71 1-1-0 2-2-0 San Diego 2 2 0 .500 79 90 1-2-0 2-2-0 Seattle 2 2 0 .500 65 92 0-2-0 0-2-0
</pre>

Grid Iron

04-17-2004, 02:32 PM

<h2>Smith Closes In On Kline</h2><h3>Missouri Governor narrows margin in Presidential race</h3>September 25, 2008

San Diego, CA (AP) – Republican Presidential candidate Gordon Smith, Governor of Missouri, is in a virtual dead heat with his Democratic rival Alan Kline, a USA Today poll showed. Kline received 46%, while Smith had 45% in the poll of likely voters, which has a 3% margin of error. "This is great news," said Smith at a speaking engagement with the workers union at Lockheed Aerospace Facility in San Diego, California. "I believe that the spirit of exploration will not only generate new jobs across the country, but unify the world in a common goal."

Grid Iron

04-17-2004, 02:34 PM

<h2>NFL Weeks 5-8</h2>Week 5: Barnstormers (3-1) (-3) at Chargers (2-2)

The Barnstormers were held to just 44 yards rushing and quarterback Mel Brandon, starting for the injured Roman Roberts, was intercepted three times as San Diego cruised to a 24-6 victory over Iowa.

Week 6: Barnstormers (3-2) at Raiders (4-0) (-9)

The Barnstormers tied the game with 17 unanswered points in the second half, but the Raiders won it by a score of 20-17 on a 44-yard field goal with 2:29 left in overtime.

Week 7: Barnstormers (3-3) at Broncos (4-2) (-6)

Mel Brandon was pulled after throwing two more interceptions and return specialist Alonzo Patton fumbled twice as the Broncos handed the Barnstormers their third consecutive loss by a score of 29-3.

Week 8: Barnstormers (3-4) vs. Bills (4-2) (-2)

Kicker Jim Lane hit field goals of 50 and 57 yards, and Mel Brandon threw a seven-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Ray Berkhofer in overtime to lift the Barnstormers to victory, 21-15. The win snapped the team’s three-game skid.

2/4 Season Review

The Barnstormers’ three-game losing streak gives them a mediocre 4-4 record at the halfway point. Backup QB Mel Brandon (1,189 yards, 8 TD, 11 INT), who is starting for injured Roman Roberts, will need to improve if this team is going to make the playoffs.

<pre>AFC West W L T Pct PF PA Div Conf Oakland 5 2 0 .714 130 126 2-2-0 3-2-0 San Diego 5 3 0 .625 158 161 4-2-0 5-3-0 Denver 5 3 0 .625 184 125 3-2-0 4-3-0 Seattle 4 3 0 .571 144 150 2-2-0 2-3-0 Iowa City 4 4 0 .500 151 162 1-4-0 3-4-0 Kansas City 3 4 0 .429 154 129 2-2-0 2-3-0
</pre>

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 11:34 AM

<h2>NFL Weeks 9-13</h2>Week 9: Barnstormers (4-4) (-8) vs. Lions (2-5)

Defensive end Stephen Bonham had 3.0 sacks, two hurries and a blocked pass, and the Barnstormers survived five interceptions by quarterback Mel Brandon, as Iowa defeated Detroit, 27-13

Week 10: Bye 

The team’s week off gave starting QB Roman Roberts the extra time he needed to get back to full strength from his bruised shoulder injury. He is expected to start next week.

Week 11: Barnstormers (5-4) (-3) vs. Chargers (5-4)

Iowa quarterback Roman Roberts struggled in his first game back from his shoulder injury, completing just 13 of 25 for 150 yards in the Barnstormers’ 17-12 loss to the Chargers.

Week 12: Barnstormers (5-5) at Chiefs (5-5) (-2)

Roman Roberts looked like his old self, completing 17 of 32 for 367 yards, four touchdowns and one interception as the Barnstormers beat the Chiefs 31-28 in overtime.

Week 13: Barnstormers (6-5) (-3) vs. Broncos (6-5)

Roman Roberts was sacked three times and intercepted twice as the Broncos beat the Barnstormers 22-14.

3/4 Season Review

At 6-6, the Barnstormers are close to being eliminated from the divisional title, but still have a shot at the wild card.

<pre>AFC West W L T Pct PF PA Div Conf Oakland 9 3 0 .750 238 212 4-2-0 6-3-0 Denver 7 5 0 .583 263 202 5-3-0 6-4-0 San Diego 6 6 0 .500 239 268 5-3-0 6-5-0 Iowa City 6 6 0 .500 235 242 2-6-0 4-6-0 Seattle 6 6 0 .500 257 280 4-3-0 4-5-0 Kansas City 5 7 0 .417 298 280 2-5-0 3-6-0
</pre>

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 11:47 AM

<h2>Smith Wins! Smith Wins!</h2><h3>Missouri Governor wins Presidential Election</h3>November 6, 2008

Columbus, OH (Reuters) – Republican candidate Gordon Smith was elected President of the United States today, winning 290 of 538 electoral votes. "This is truly a great day for the people of America and the world," said Smith, who will resign today as governor of Missouri. "I've got a lot of work to do in the next four years, but I'm certainly up to the task."

Smith said he received a call from his opponent, democrat Alan Kline, late last night conceding the election. "He congratulated me and wished me good luck," Smith said.

First on the President-Elect's list of priorities is to obtain funding for a mission to Mars, which he says is crucial to ignite an economy that has been luke warm since the 2000-2002 recession. "Nothing gets people fired up more than national pride," said Smith.

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 11:50 AM

<h2>NFL Weeks 14-17</h2>Week 14: Barnstormers (6-6) at Buccaneers (6-6) (-2)

Iowa wide receiver Jorge Ellison had nine catches for 174 yards and a touchdown as the Barnstormers beat the Bucs 22-17.

Week 15: Barnstormers (7-6) (-2) at Seahawks (7-6)

Barnstormers fullback Tyrell Reese caught a 57-yard touchdown pass from Roman Roberts and had four key run blocks as Iowa destroyed Seattle 41-7.

The victory pulled Iowa within one game of division-leading Oakland (9-5), but starting QB Roman Roberts suffered broken jaw and will miss the remainder of the season.

Week 16: Barnstormers (8-6) (-4) vs. Raiders (9-5)

Backup quarterback Mel Brandon, playing for the injured Roman Roberts, was 14 of 30 for 113 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions, as the Raiders clinched the AFC West with a 27-3 victory over the Barnstormers.

Week 17: Barnstormers (8-7) at Bears (9-6) (-4) 

The Barnstormers defense finished the year with a flourish, recording 7.0 sacks, three interceptions and two fumble recoveries, as Iowa beat Chicago 34-11.

4/4 Season Review

At 9-7, the Barnstormers finished third in the AFC West and clinched the final wild card spot. Next week, they travel to Oakland to play the AFC West Champion Raiders.

Here are the complete NFL standings with playoff teams in bold:

<pre>AFC East W L T Pct PF PA Div Conf New England 11 5 0 .688 415 345 6-2-0 8-4-0 Indianapolis 9 7 0 .563 355 335 4-4-0 6-6-0 New Jersey 9 7 0 .563 345 324 3-5-0 6-6-0 Buffalo 8 8 0 .500 331 376 5-3-0 6-6-0 Miami 7 9 0 .438 359 359 2-6-0 4-8-0 AFC Central W L T Pct PF PA Div Conf Cincinnati 13 3 0 .813 476 309 9-1-0 12-1-0 Pittsburgh 11 5 0 .688 387 313 6-4-0 9-4-0 Baltimore 8 8 0 .500 381 340 6-4-0 6-6-0 Tennessee 6 10 0 .375 322 370 4-6-0 5-8-0 Jacksonville 5 11 0 .313 288 376 3-7-0 3-9-0 Cleveland 4 12 0 .250 311 384 1-8-0 4-9-0 AFC West W L T Pct PF PA Div Conf Oakland 10 6 0 .625 335 320 5-5-0 7-6-0 San Diego 9 7 0 .563 344 351 7-3-0 8-5-0 Iowa City 9 7 0 .563 335 304 3-7-0 5-7-0 Seattle 8 8 0 .500 309 375 6-4-0 6-6-0 Denver 7 9 0 .438 321 284 5-5-0 6-7-0 Kansas City 7 9 0 .438 385 356 4-6-0 5-8-0 NFC East W L T Pct PF PA Div Conf Arizona 10 6 0 .625 410 299 6-2-0 8-4-0 Philadelphia 8 8 0 .500 374 326 4-4-0 7-5-0 Washington 8 8 0 .500 331 329 4-4-0 6-6-0 New York 4 12 0 .250 281 385 3-5-0 3-9-0 Dallas 3 13 0 .188 283 436 3-5-0 3-9-0 NFC Central W L T Pct PF PA Div Conf Green Bay 9 7 0 .563 371 325 5-3-0 8-4-0 Minnesota 9 7 0 .563 362 357 5-3-0 7-5-0 Chicago 9 7 0 .563 328 308 3-5-0 7-5-0 Tampa Bay 8 8 0 .500 314 279 4-4-0 7-5-0 Detroit 5 11 0 .313 292 406 3-5-0 4-8-0 NFC West W L T Pct PF PA Div Conf New Orleans 11 5 0 .688 308 329 7-1-0 8-4-0 San Francisco 9 7 0 .563 335 318 4-4-0 7-5-0 St. Louis 8 8 0 .500 344 328 5-3-0 5-7-0 Carolina 8 8 0 .500 368 327 2-6-0 5-7-0 Atlanta 6 10 0 .375 266 393 2-6-0 5-7-0 </pre>

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 11:56 AM

To: [email protected]
Date: December 1, 2008
Subject: Dr. Livingston Murder
From: [email protected]

Jackpot! The local police in Des Moines, Iowa, matched the fingerprints from the exams to a suspect arrested in 1994 for carrying a concealed weapon. Here is his info:

Troy Alan Davidson
Born 10/30/1965

We've got everyone trying to track him down right now.

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 02:41 PM

<h2>Shiver Me Timbers!</h2><h3>Barnstormers blow fourth quarter lead, lose to Raiders</h3><table class="resources" border="2" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2"><tr><td align="center"><img src="http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/iac.gif"></td><td>Barnstormers (9-8)</td><td width=35 align="middle">27</td></tr><tr><td align="center"><img src="http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/oak.gif"></td><td>Raiders (11-6)</td><td width=35 align="middle">34</td></table>
December 7, 2008

<IMG SRC="http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/padavona1.gif" border=1 hspace=5 ALIGN=right> Oakland, CA (ESPN) – Oakland running back Stephen Padavona had 198 yards on the day (161 rush, 37 rec), leading the Raiders to a 34-27 wild card victory over the Iowa Barnstormers. Down 20-19 going into the fourth quarter, Oakland outscored Iowa 15-7 in the final 6:27 to complete a three-game sweep of the Barnstormers this season.

The loss ruined an otherwise great day for backup QB Mel Brandon, who started for injured Roman Roberts. “We just couldn’t stop Padavona,” said Brandon, who had the best game of his career by completing 17 of 27 for 237 yards, 3 TD, and 0 INT. “It’s really frustrating to put up 27 points and not come away with the victory.”
<pre>Box Score: Iowa City Barnstormers at Oakland Raiders. Attendance: 50,300 (62,500), No-Shows: 0. Weather: 61 degrees, fair. 1Q: 12:52 IAC - Jim Lane 30 field goal. 1Q: 09:42 OAK - Tony Halama 33 field goal. 1Q: 06:50 IAC - Allen Baxter 39 pass from Mel Brandon. 1Q: 06:50 IAC - Jim Lane extra point. 1Q: 01:40 OAK - Lance Manning 5 pass from Pat Lynch. 1Q: 01:40 OAK - Tony Halama extra point. 2Q: 14:16 OAK - Tony Halama 29 field goal. 2Q: 10:15 IAC - Jim Lane 50 field goal. 2Q: 00:01 OAK - Tony Halama 32 field goal. 3Q: 04:17 OAK - Tony Halama 45 field goal. 3Q: 03:38 IAC - Freddie Morris 50 pass from Mel Brandon. 3Q: 03:38 IAC - Jim Lane extra point. 4Q: 06:22 OAK - Kelly Greene 3 pass from Pat Lynch. 4Q: 06:22 OAK - Stephen Padavona run for conversion. 4Q: 01:26 OAK - Tony Simmons 7 pass from Pat Lynch. 4Q: 01:26 OAK - Tony Halama extra point. 4Q: 00:06 IAC - Allen Baxter 41 pass from Mel Brandon. 4Q: 00:06 IAC - Jim Lane extra point. Game MVP: OAK 33 Stephen Padavona Iowa City 10 3 7 7 - 27 Oakland 10 6 3 15 - 34 Team Statistics IAC OAK First Downs 14 26 Rushes 25 30 Rushing Yards 184 174 Yards Per Carry 7.3 5.8 Pass Attempts 27 39 Completions 17 24 Passing Yards 237 198 Yards Per Attempt 8.7 5.0 Sacked 4 4 Yards Lost 23 29 Net Passing Yards 214 169 Interceptions 0 0 Fumbles/Lost 2/1 1/1 Total Plays 56 73 Total Yards 398 343 Yards Per Play 7.1 4.6 3rd Down Plays 4/14 7/15 Penalties 10 3 Penalty Yards 63 20 Time Of Possession 26:20 33:40 Iowa City Barnstormers Individual Statistics Rushing Att Yards Avg Long TD 37 Webster 15 100 6.6 30 0 12 Brandon 3 20 6.6 9 0 36 Reese 3 1 0.3 3 0 22 Lofton 2 -7 -3.5 -3 0 80 Berkhofer 1 1 1.0 1 0 45 Michels 1 69 69.0 69 0 Passing Att Comp Yards Yd/Att Long TD Int 12 Brandon 27 17 237 8.7 50 3 0 Receiving Catch Yards Avg Long TD 82 Baxter 5 107 21.4 41 2 80 Berkhofer 4 42 10.5 14 0 88 Ellison 4 31 7.7 14 0 87 Morris 2 53 26.5 50 1 37 Webster 1 -1 -1.0 -1 0 36 Reese 1 5 5.0 5 0 Punt Returns Att Yards Avg TD 43 Patton 3 16 5.3 0 Kick Returns Att Yards Avg TD 43 Patton 6 143 23.8 0 45 Michels 1 9 9.0 0 Punting Punts Yards Avg Long In20 15 Levine 5 207 41.4 51 0 Kicking FG FGA Long PAT Att 16 Lane 2 3 50 3 3 Defense Tackle Assist Sack Int IntYds IntTD 59 Grier 10 3 0.0 0 0 0 21 Coady 8 4 0.0 0 0 0 55 Robinson 7 1 0.0 0 0 0 52 Nord 6 6 0.0 0 0 0 29 Boyer 5 3 0.0 0 0 0 98 Darlington 4 0 2.0 0 0 0 42 Shepherd 4 1 0.0 0 0 0 94 Brown 3 1 1.0 0 0 0 41 Fuller 2 1 0.0 0 0 0 20 Bartoszewicz 2 1 0.0 0 0 0 56 Owens 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 87 Morris 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 90 Weaver 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 89 Reynolds 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 36 Reese 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 53 Elias 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 61 Penn 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 43 Patton 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 85 Randle 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 50 Bonham 0 0 1.0 0 0 0 Miscellaneous Fumb Recov MiscTD KeyRBlk SckAlwd 61 Penn 0 0 0 1 1 36 Reese 0 0 0 0 2 63 Ray 0 0 0 2 1 56 Owens 0 0 0 2 0 94 Brown 0 1 0 0 0 30 Murphy 0 1 0 0 0 87 Morris 0 0 0 1 0 12 Brandon 1 0 0 0 0 70 Morton 0 0 0 1 0 71 Duffy 0 0 0 1 0 43 Patton 1 0 0 0 0 Oakland Raiders Individual Statistics Rushing Att Yards Avg Long TD 33 Padavona 25 161 6.4 21 0 49 Davison 2 9 4.5 6 0 13 Lynch 2 5 2.5 3 0 17 Kurko 1 -1 -1.0 -1 0 Passing Att Comp Yards Yd/Att Long TD Int 13 Lynch 39 24 198 5.0 19 3 0 Receiving Catch Yards Avg Long TD 86 Manning 7 41 5.8 9 1 87 Simmons 5 51 10.2 15 1 33 Padavona 5 37 7.4 10 0 82 McIntosh 3 27 9.0 11 0 83 Dudley 1 19 19.0 19 0 81 Greene 1 3 3.0 3 1 89 Jackson 1 8 8.0 8 0 17 Kurko 1 12 12.0 12 0 Punt Returns Att Yards Avg TD 17 Kurko 3 19 6.3 0 Kick Returns Att Yards Avg TD 36 Rossum 3 91 30.3 0 46 Underhill 1 27 27.0 0 Punting Punts Yards Avg Long In20 18 Mayes 5 224 44.8 57 2 Kicking FG FGA Long PAT Att 2 Halama 4 4 45 2 2 Defense Tackle Assist Sack Int IntYds IntTD 42 Burmester 8 1 0.0 0 0 0 21 Callaghan 5 4 0.0 0 0 0 57 Perry 4 1 0.0 0 0 0 23 Gordon 4 0 0.0 0 0 0 59 Logan 4 0 0.0 0 0 0 53 Falkenberg 3 2 0.0 0 0 0 90 Jackson 3 1 0.0 0 0 0 49 Davison 3 0 0.0 0 0 0 27 Wilkins 3 0 0.0 0 0 0 96 Russell 2 1 2.0 0 0 0 99 Hutchins 2 0 1.0 0 0 0 89 Jackson 2 0 0.0 0 0 0 46 Underhill 2 0 0.0 0 0 0 93 Warren 1 2 1.0 0 0 0 92 Atkins 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 44 Daliere 1 0 0.0 0 0 0 Miscellaneous Fumb Recov MiscTD KeyRBlk SckAlwd 73 Fredrickson 0 0 0 2 1 77 Coleman 0 0 0 3 1 74 Stinchcomb 0 0 0 1 2 61 Wheaton 0 0 0 3 0 56 Newhart 0 0 0 3 0 99 Hutchins 0 1 0 0 0 66 Bishop 0 0 0 1 0 13 Lynch 1 0 0 0 0</pre>

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 02:52 PM

<h2>President-Elect Still Campaigning</h2><h3>Smith to speak with top scientists at MIT on New Year's Eve</h3>December 20, 2008

Columbus, OH (Reuters) – Hoping to rally support for his mission to Mars Program, President-Elect Gordon Smith is scheduled to speak to some of the world's greatest physicists and aerospace engineers at MIT's Cambridge, Massachusetts, campus on December 31, 2008. "I intend to assure the scientific community that I am serious about this incredible project," Smith said in a press release. "Without their full support, the Mars mission will never work."

NASA Director Alex Guerra, Smith advisor on the Mars Program, said the conference is widely anticipated from scientists around the globe. "We all want the Mars mission to happen, and this is the first step to realzing that goal."

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 03:05 PM

<h2>Alamo Car Rental</h2><h3>Customer Vehicle Rental Receipt</h3>December 21, 2008

Cust. Name: Troy Alan Davidson
Vehicle ID#: 123045B12
License Plate: VA 2WWA432
Destination: Boston, MA
Departure Date: 12/21/08
Return Date: 1/1/09

Cost: $800.00

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 03:07 PM

<h2>Fall From Grace</h2><h3>Bengals defeat Saints in Super Bowl XLIII</h3><table class="resources" border="2" cellpadding="2" cellspacing="2"><tr><td align="center"><img src="http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/nor.gif"></td><td>Saints (13-6)</td><td width=35 align="middle">10</td></tr><tr><td align="center"><img src="http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/cin.gif"></td><td>Bengals (16-3)</td><td width=35 align="middle">20</td></table>
December 27, 2008

Cincinnati, OH (AP) – The Cincinnati Bengals won the first NFL Championship in franchise history yesterday, defeating the New Orleans Saints by a score of 20-10. The victory was largely due to an incredible game by the Bengals defense. On the day, Cincinnati recorded six sacks, six passes broken up, four interceptions, two blocked passes, and allowed just 207 total yards (186 pass, 21 rush). “This is the greatest feeling in the world,” said Bengals defensive end Mike Mamula, who was named Super Bowl MVP after recording three sacks on the day. “This was a blue collar win, no doubt about it—but that’s the kind of team we are.”

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 03:51 PM

To: [email protected]
Date: December 28, 2008
Subject: Dr. Livingston Murder
From: [email protected]

We've traced Troy Davidson to Boston, Massachusetts. He rented a car at Alamo Car Rental in Virginia on Dec. 21, 2008 and he's due to return on Jan. 1, 2009.

I've got the guys at the Boston field office checking the hotel registries. Hopefully, we can find out where he's staying and pick him up before the New Year.

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 03:54 PM

<h2>Warrick Dunn Wins MVP Award</h2>December 29, 2008

Tampa Bay, FL (Reuters) – Today, Tampa Bay running back Warrick Dunn was named the NFL’s Most Valuable Player for the 2008 season after leading the league with a career-high 1,596 rushing yards. “People have always doubted my ability because of my size,” said the 5’9” running back who was drafted by the Buccaneers 12th overall in 1997 out of Florida State. “I think I’ve proved that you can accomplish anything if you work hard.” In 14 seasons, Dunn has rushed for 14,706 yards and 74 touchdowns.

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 06:47 PM

<h2>2008 Barnstormers Report Card</h2>December 31, 2008

Here is a rundown of Iowa City’s performance in 2008:

QUARTERBACKS: D

Starting quarterback Roman Roberts (1,441 yards, 11 TD, 4 INT) was excellent but missed eight games to injury. His replacement, Mel Brandon, was simply awful. In 12 games and eight starts, the former fifth-round pick out of USC threw for 1,812 yards, 11 touchdowns and 21 interceptions.

RUNNING BACKS: C+

Friendship Lofton snapped his streak of three consecutive 1,000-yards seasons, rushing for just 876 yards and six touchdowns. What worries management even more, however, is that he posted his lowest rushing average (3.5) since his rookie season in 2003. Fullback Tyrell Reese turned in a great year, making 14 key run blocks in 37 chances (37.8%).

OFFENSIVE LINE: D-

The offensive line was the worst ever, allowing 40 sacks on the year and no player making more than 20 key run blocks on the season. Further, the team ranked 17th in the league by allowing 112.2 rushing yards per game.

RECEIVERS: B

Third-year wideout Jorge Ellison set career highs in receptions (70) and receiving yards (952) and scored five touchdowns. Wide receiver Ray Berkhofer impressed in his first season with the Barnstormers. Signed as a free agent with Iowa after six seasons with Detroit, the former first-round pick out of Georgia Tech had 53 catches for 694 yards and seven touchdowns.

DEFENSIVE LINE: A-

The defensive line was superb, recording 49.5 sacks, 45 hurries and 12 blocked passes. Defensive tackle Cedric Brown was named All-League First Team after making 13.5 sacks, seven hurries and three blocked passes.

LINEBACKERS: B

This unit was very solid, led by fifth-year outside linebacker Donny Grier who was named All-League First Team after making 172 tackles (128 solo) and 3.0 sacks. Third-year middle linebacker Bob Robinson also contributed, recording 129 tackles (99 solo) and 5.0 sacks.

SECONDARY: B

The secondary did good job, helping to contribute to the team’s 218.0 passing yards per game average, but ranked 21st in the league with just 16 interceptions. Nonetheless, free safety Gilbert Coady returned to the form that made him the Defensive Player of the Year in 2005 after recording 87 tackles (71 solo) and six interceptions.

SPECIAL TEAMS: B+

As usual, the Barnstormers’ return game was mediocre but the kicking was excellent. Punter Junior Levine was named All-League First Team after leading the league with 39 punts inside the 20 in 112 chances (34.8%). Kicker Jim Lane was 22 of 28 (79%) on field goals with a long of 57.

COACHING: B

Coach Travis O’Donnell took the Barnstormers to the playoffs for the fifth straight year, despite losing his star quarterback for half the season and the playoffs. However, the team’s 3-5 record in the postseason is certainly cause for concern and rumors are circulating that 2009 may be his final season.

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 06:48 PM

<h2>Cambridge Police Department</h2><h3>Emergency Dispatch Message</h3>December 31, 2008

1:32 p.m. EST

All units respond to MIT, Kresge Auditorium, Code 3, lights & sirens.

FBI reports terrorist will attempt assassination of Gordon Smith and others in attendance.

Suspect is Troy Davidson WMA, 6’2”, Brn Hair, Brn Eyes, 190lbs.

Presume armed and dangerous, including possible high explosives.

Grid Iron

04-18-2004, 06:52 PM

Stay tuned for the 2008 finale, coming up tommorrow!

fantastic flying froggies

04-19-2004, 04:29 AM

Fall From Grace

Bengals defeat Saints in Super Bowl XLIII

<TABLE class=resources cellSpacing=2 cellPadding=2 border=2><TBODY><TR><TD align=middle>http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/nor.gif</TD><TD>Saints (13-6)</TD><TD align=middle width=35>10</TD></TR><TR><TD align=middle>http://fof2forever.com/dynasties/barnstormers/images/cin.gif</TD><TD>Titans (16-3)</TD><TD align=middle width=35>20</TD></TR></TBODY></TABLE>

Hmm, did Tennessee merge with Cincinnati in your universe ? ;)

Sad season, could have been named 'why a decent backup QB is important in the NFL...'. Oh well, there's always next season... And I thought you'd fixed that O-line thru FA and the draft, but god, that was just awful !

Story keeps getting better, way to go !

Grid Iron

04-19-2004, 08:52 AM

<h2>Mars Project Presentation Transcript</h2><h3>Kresge Auditorium, MIT</h3>December 31, 2008

1:35 p.m. EST

SEERA: Ketan Seera, MIT President
SMITH: Gordon Smith, President-Elect
SECURITY: Mark Wilson, U.S. Secret Service

* * * * * *

SEERA: Now, ladies and gentlemen, I’d like you to all give a warm welcome to the next President of the United States, Gordon Smith.

[Applause]

SMITH: Thank you. Thank you.

[Applause]

SMITH: Really, thank you very much.

[Applause]

SMITH: Thank you. As you all know, I’m here today to express my dedication to the Mars Project.

[Applause]

SMITH: I sincerely believe that the human race has reached a crossroads. . .

SECURITY: (whispering into micro transmitter) We have a call from the FBI? What the hell do they want?

SMITH: We can go forward into the future, or turn back and wallow in stagnation.

SECURITY: (whispering) Why can’t I speak to them?

SMITH: As soon as I take office, I am going to propose a one trillion dollar expenditure to put men and women on the Red Planet!

[Applause]

SECURITY: (whispering) How the hell can there be interference with cell phone transmissions here? Mine was working fine just a few minutes ago. . .

SMITH: I will be calling on all of you to serve you country to accomplish what many never thought would be possible—visiting another planet.

[Applause]

SECURITY: (whispering) Damnit, I want answers! If we don’t get cellular communication in 30 seconds, I’m taking the President back stage. . .

SMITH: Together, we can accomplish anythi—

[Sound of electrical system shorting out]

SECURITY: (whispering) What the hell was that?

[Sound of auditorium lights shutting off]

SMITH: What happened to the lights?

SECURITY:Mr. President, we need to g--

[Sound of four gunshots in rapid succession]

[Screams from audience]

SECURITY: Shots fired!!! Shots fired!!!

[Screams from audience]

SECURITY: Oh, God!!! Get an ambulance! Man down!!! Man down!!!

[End of Transcript]

Grid Iron

04-19-2004, 12:34 PM

Hmm, did Tennessee merge with Cincinnati in your universe ? ;)

Doh! I'll have to fix that. . .

The O-line was a major disappointment. Hopefully, the cohesion rating will go up a bit for next season.

Grid Iron

04-19-2004, 08:18 PM

This ends the 2008 season.

The 2009 season begins here (http://dynamic2.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/showthread.php?t=24649) .