[MIJB#19]

General Manager Notes: We're winning games
But so is the rest of the division.

Once again, I'm going to start with the division standings, because after 6 weeks of small sample size football, this division is as tight and competitive as one can be.

1. Gothenburg 4-2
2. Bordeaux 3-2
3. Paris 3-2
4. Maassluis 3-2

Yup, that's right: we're in last place, despite a winning record. Not unique, but rare enough to wonder what more we can do, other than make sure we stopping losing games.

Because "losing" is how we continued the season. In a back and forth game against the North Plainfield Plague, defenses weren't just impressive, they kind of dominated. We were held to 267 total yards, while we allowed only 253 total yards. With 4 turnovers on each end, you'd think we'd probably won this one? To the contrary though, our special teams unit allowed 148 punt return yards, but in return we blocked a punt and scored a touchdown on that play. In the end, it wasn't sufficient at all. The Plague scored their 31-23 lead taking touchdown with less than 5 minutes to go and in the final two minutes a pick six was the final nail in the coffin for a 38-23 deficit on the road. Earnest Ashley in particular must not have slept well after this game: 3 interceptions, 7 times sacked and 3 fumbles on those plays.

Week 6, at home against the Rochester Razorbacks. The Merchantmen defense was once again impressive, but this time around Earnest Ashley displayed another side of him, earning Solecismic Offense Player of the Week honors as he completed 24 of 40 passes for 318 yards, 3 touchdowns, no turnovers and a running touchdown to boost. The defense allowed only 155 total yards, anchored by second-year professionals defensive end Richie Piotte (2 sacks) and cornerback Ernie Grant.

Next up a new chapter in the Futility Bowl rivalry against the Toronto Lake Monsters. The current Northeast division leaders as per usual will be visiting Oranje Haven for this clash. An opponent that will give Earnest Ashley favorable flashbacks as he posted his first career victory in a 34-14 victory in the 2094 season, the then rookie threw for 245 yards and 4 touchdowns. More of that tomorrow would be very welcome, we need everybody to up their game or continue playing like they did in week 6 to stand a chance in this strong division. Keep this up, Merchantmen!