IHOF: Maassluis Merchantmen

[MIJB#19]

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]

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]

Originally Posted by MIJB#19

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]

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.

[MIJB#19]

Originally Posted by wade moore

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]

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]

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]

Originally Posted by wade moore

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.

Originally Posted by wade moore

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.

Originally Posted by wade moore

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]

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]

Originally Posted by wade moore

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]

Originally Posted by MIJB#19

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

The fans are shocked.....

Absolutely floored...

[MIJB#19]

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]

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]

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]

Originally Posted by wade moore

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...


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]

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]

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]

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

[MIJB#19]

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]

Originally Posted by wade moore

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

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?

[MIJB#19]

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]

Originally Posted by MIJB#19

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]

Originally Posted by wade moore

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]

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]

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]

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]

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)

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]

Originally Posted by HornedFrog Purple

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]

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]

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]

Originally Posted by wade moore

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]

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]

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

[wade moore]

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

[MIJB#19]

Originally Posted by wade moore

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]

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]

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]

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]

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]

Originally Posted by wade moore

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...