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03-14-2005, 08:28 AM
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#1 | ||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Ice Age: An FOF2K4 MP Dynasty
 IntroductionAfter three seasons, I have decided to document the story of the Oregon Ice, my team in the Continental Football League.My ownership of the Oregon Ice began in the not-too-distant past. It all started in the year 2003, to be exact. I inherited the team when they were known as the Portland Knights. Wanting to make the team my own, however, I changed the name. After considerable thought, I ultimately decided I didn’t want to limit our fan base to Portland. Consequently, the team now calls the whole State of Oregon its home. As for the team nickname, I chose the Ice. The name was short, simple, and embodies the characteristics that I hope my team will be known for some day--cold, unrelenting, and unforgiving power. The Oregon Ice are, historically, one of the best teams in the CFL. The team compiled a 35-17 record (3-1 playoffs) in three seasons and won the CFL Championship in 2003. Until now, however, the Ice have never truly been “my team.” When I inherited the organization, it already had a great gameplan and two superstars in the backfield: QB Landon Hurst (2003 CFL Championship MVP, 2004 2nd Team) and RB Roger Rubenstein (5,152 total yards, 43 TDs in 3 seasons). I didn’t have to do much tinkering to achieve success. In the 2006 offseason, however, I cut Rubenstein and traded Hurst to the Charleston Monitors. It was a bold move, but necessary to free up crucial cap space. I didn’t get anything for Rubenstein, but I got a lot in return for Hurst. In exchange for the second-ranked QB in the league (91/91), I got top CB Orlando Pilcher (72/72), as well as a king’s ransom in draft picks: a 3rd, 5th, 6th and 7th in 2006, as well as Charleston’s 1st, 2nd and 3rd round picks in 2007. With a new starting QB, a committee of unproven running backs, and lots of draft picks, I feel the Ice are now “my team.” The real test of my skill as an FOF2K4 GM now begins. . . Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:30 AM. |
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03-14-2005, 08:36 AM
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lolzcat
Join Date: May 2001
Location: williamsburg, va
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Awesome! Not only a CFL dynasty, but one I'm sure will be photo driven! woohoo! Now that I have madden I'm going to try and catch up on mine... we'll see what happens though...
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Text Sports Network - Bringing you statistical information for several FOF MP leagues in one convenient site Quote:
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03-14-2005, 08:51 PM
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#4 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Glad to see two fellow CFL owners on board!
 Last edited by Grid Iron : 03-14-2005 at 09:00 PM. |
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03-14-2005, 09:00 PM
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#5 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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2006 Season PreviewIt is a time of cautious optimism for the Oregon Ice. Two of the team’s biggest stars in QB Landon Hurst and RB Roger Rubenstein are gone, but the secondary is much improved. Further, the team has a strong foundation in place, having two first, second, third and seventh round draft picks next season.Unfortunately, the 2006 draft did not go particularly well for Oregon. None of the team’s rookies will start and the Ice’s first-round pick (21st overall), CB Austin Mallard from North Carolina State, has been a bust so far (12/44). DE Floyd Weatherly, selected in the fourth round out of Georgia Tech, will see playing time as a situational pass rusher. “I have a good feeling about this year,” said GM Jack “Grid” Iron. “Losing players of Landon and Roger’s caliber is never easy, but our defense should keep us in the game.” Opening Day RosterPlayer # Pos Start Exp RatingThe pressure will be on starting QB Maurice Brown, who takes over for 2003 CFL Bowl MVP Landon Hurst. The Ice hope he can recapture the magic that helped him to 3,522 yards, 23 TD and 12 INT with Anchorage in 2003. Player # Pos Start Exp RatingWith the departure of perennial superstar RB Roger Rubenstein, the Ice backfield is in sad shape. Look for fullback Tracey Woolery to get a significant number of carries. Player # Pos Start Exp RatingThe Ice are loaded with great pass catchers in TE Newton Begin, WR Matt Brunner and WR Roy Alden. Player # Pos Start Exp RatingThis unit, anchored by C Korey Ludwig, has outstanding pass blocking ability, but is weak in the running game. Player # Pos Start Exp RatingTwo of the best kickers in the game, period. Player # Pos Start Exp RatingDE Brian Vanegas had 15.5 sacks in 2003, but he might be getting a bit old, recording only 11.5 sacks of the last two seasons. Player # Pos Start Exp RatingAll of the starting linebackers are new to the team except Macaluso. This unit is particularly skilled against the run. Player # Pos Start Exp RatingWith the addition of LCB Orlando Pilcher in the trade with Charleston, the Ice secondary is one of the best in the league. Salary Cap StatusSalary Cap: $88,200,000Cap Room: $5,520,000 Maximum for New Player: $5,770,000 Cap Room Lost (to old contracts): $7,330,000 Cap Room Lost Next Year (to old contracts): $5,470,000 Cap Room Required Next Year: $86,900,000 ScheduleThe Ice have a tough schedule this year, with half of their games against teams that finished 2005 with a winning record. Five of the teams Oregon plays made the playoffs last season.Moreover, start of the season could be particularly tough, as the team faces last year’s division champion, the Boise Stampede, twice in the first seven weeks, including the season opener on the road. Here is the complete 2006 schedule: Week 1 at Boise Stampede Author's GoalsSince 2006 is a transition year for the Ice, I have set some modest, and I believe attainable, goals.My first goal is to just get to the playoffs. I don’t care if we do it via wildcard or division title. My second goal is for my defense to finish the year in the top ten in points allowed per game. My third, and final, goal is to see my starting QB Maurice Brown return to the form he had in 2003 when he threw for 3522 yards, 23 TD, and 12 INT. If he can do that, we should make the postseason and won’t have to shop for a new QB next year. Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-06-2005 at 08:02 PM. |
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03-14-2005, 09:08 PM
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#6 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Second Chance: Oregon QB off to solid startWeek 1, 2006
 Portland, OR (AP) - When Oregon Ice QB Maurice Brown was allowed to leave New Orleans last season as a free agent, he stayed awake at night praying for one more chance to start in the CFL. "I knew I had it in me," says Brown. "I just needed the opportunity to get back on the field."That chance came when Oregon GM Grid Iron called offering him a job. "We didn't promise him the starting spot. We wanted a competition," remembers Iron, who was trying to fill the spot created when he traded former CFL Bowl MVP quarterback Landon Hurst to Charleston just weeks before in a salary-cap related move. After a brief negotiation, Brown signed a five-year $20 million contract that included a $1.5 million signing bonus and a cap-friendly $1.15 million salary in 2006. "He's gonna have to really earn the rest of that money," said Grid Iron, who can release Brown next season at a cap cost of just $1.3 million. "Hopefully, he'll be here for a long time." Brown, whose expertise is in throwing short passes, is considered a team leader on, and off, the field. In 2003, he threw for 3,522 yards, 23 TD and 12 INT for Anchorage. Unfortunately, the Renegades ownership soured on Brown after he threw only 13 TD against 13 INT in 2004, and he eventually found his way to New Orleans where he was a backup. "I had a lot of time to think," said Brown of his time carrying the clipboard. "I decided that my talent wasn't going to get me a starting job. I needed to work my tail off." All of Brown's work since the end of the 2005 season paid off in Oregon's 34-28 victory at Boise on Opening Day. In the game, Brown was 23 of 38 for 303 yards, 1 TD and 0 INT and earned player of the game honors. "He tore it up out there," said Oregon wide receiver Matt Brunner who had 9 catches for 177 yards. "Every time I got open, the ball was right there." Like any good GM, however, Grid Iron is taking a more skeptical approach. "It's just one game. Next week will be against a very tough Shreveport team," Iron said. "Talk to me next week and ask me how I feel then," Iron said with a chuckle. Around the League Albany RB Joel Foran broke the CFL single game rushing record when he ran for 236 yards in a 31-10 victory over the Chicago Hitmen. Ironically, Chicago's Arthur Brady, who set the previous record with 227 yards in 2004, was there to witness the event. Box Score Attendance: 61,000 (71,100). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:35 PM. |
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03-14-2005, 09:10 PM
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#7 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Humiliation!Ice embarass Pride 23-10Week 2, 2006
Portland, OR (AP) - The Oregon Ice rolled to a 2-0 record and sole possession of first place in the Ring of Ice Division yesterday with a 23-10 victory over the Shreveport Pride. The Oregon defense stole the show, recording 3 sacks and creating four turnovers (three forced fumbles and one interception). "Everyone stepped up today," said Oregon strong-side linebacker Jerrell Pinard, who was voted Player of the Game. "We executed the game plan we practiced all week, and it worked to perfection." On the day, Pinard had two sacks, one pass deflection, and a forced fumble that he recovered for a touchdown.  Although the teams were tied 3-3 at halftime, Oregon capitalized on three Shreveport turnovers in a five-minute span to put the game out of reach. On the second play of the third quarter, Oregon cornerback Orlando Pilcher recovered a fumble by Shreveport tight end Mark Jackson at the Pride 24, which led to a 33-yard field goal and a 6-3 Ice advantage.On the ensuing kickoff, Shreveport wide receiver Mack Ramirez muffed the return and Oregon recovered at the Pride 22. Four plays later, Oregon kicker Craig Schanding connected on a 35-yard field goal, giving Oregon a 9-3 lead. The death knell came on Shreveport's very next possession. The Pride were backed up to their own 12 after a holding penalty when fullback Gus Lassner failed to pick up the blitz, allowing Pinard to lay a huge hit on quarterback Douglas Hartman at the 3-yard line. The blow knocked the ball loose, and Pinard jumped on it in the end zone for the score. "It's just one game," said an ever even-keeled GM Grid Iron. "We've got another tough game next week at Huntington Beach and a lot of work to do." Box Score Attendance: 69,700 (73,300). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:36 PM. |
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03-14-2005, 09:23 PM
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#8 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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No Sale!Brown's OT interception turns into 23-20 Capitalist victoryWeek 3, 2006
Huntington Beach, CA (AP) - At times, the Oregon Ice game at Huntington Beach looked more like a roller coaster ride than a football game. The Ice fell behind early, battled to a 10-point lead, blew it in the fourth quarter, rallied to tie as time expired in regulation, and finally lost on a clutch 49-yard field goal that was set up by an Oregon interception. The victory allowed Huntington Beach (3-0) to stay perfect on the year. "All I can say is, 'wow'," said Capitalist QB Jesus Dennis (191 yards, 2TD, 1INT), who was named player of the game. "We knew it was going to be a close game, but not that close." "The guys played their hearts out," said a disappointed GM Grid Iron. "But we made too many mistakes." The biggest mistake was the interception thrown by Oregon QB Maurice Brown (202 yards, 1 TD, 2 INT) in overtime. On Oregon’s second possession of overtime, the Ice seemed to have the momentum, getting a first down after an 11-yard completion to WR Alden Roy at the Oregon 43. Unfortunately, two false starts later the team was facing first-and-20 from the 33. Brown tried to go to Roy again, but Capitalist LCB Bennie Seawright stepped in front of the pass at the Oregon 39 for the pick. The Ice defense responded well, forcing Huntington Beach into a fourth-and-three, but Irving Davis nailed the 49-yard kick to seal the victory. Grid Iron refused, however, to place the blame solely on his quarterback. "We had them right where we wanted them," Iron said of his team’s 10-point lead to start the fourth quarter. "But we weren’t able to close it out." Finishing has been a problem for the Ice (2-1). Through three games, the Ice are allowing an average of just 8.0 points in the first three quarters. In the final period, however, Oregon is allowing an average of 10.0 points per game. "Maurice (Brown) should never have been in that position (to throw the interception)," said Ice DE Brian Vanegas, who had 1.5 of Oregon's four sacks. "We need to play all four quarters and finish the other team off." Box Score Attendance: 57,900 (65,000). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:36 PM. |
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03-14-2005, 09:37 PM
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#9 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Stone Cold!Oregon falters late, loses to El Paso 19-18Week 4, 2006
Portland, OR (AP) - Another week, another fourth-quarter collapse for the Oregon Ice. This week, however, it wasn't the defense that lost the game, but the offense. In the final period, starting QB Maurice Brown was sacked for a safety and threw two interceptions, one of which occurred as the Ice were driving at the El Paso 37. "I blew it today," said a dejected Brown, who has thrown four interceptions against just two touchdowns in the last two weeks. "I've got to turn the page and get ready for Tulsa next week."  In a nutshell, the game was one of missed opportunities. Oregon pulled to within two points at 17-15 with 10:03 left in the third quarter on a 68-yard (52 after the catch) touchdown pass from Brown to Matt Brunner. After stopping El Paso at the Oregon 41, the Ice appeared to take control, moving the ball from their own five-yard-line to the Rockets' 37 in a 13-play, 5 five-minute drive. Unfortunately, on the first play of the fourth quarter Brown threw his first interception of the day, which was picked off without a return at the El Paso 21.The Oregon defense held again, but Ice center Lino Williams couldn't stop El Paso DE Pierre Hinson, who sacked Brown for a safety, giving his team a 19-15 advantage. With 2:48 left in the game, Oregon K Craig Schanding connected on a 44-yard field goal to make it a one-point game, and the defense again came up with a stop, getting the ball back with 1:57 left in regulation at the Ice 37. Unfortunately, Brown was intercepted on the first play from scrimmage at the El Paso 50, ending any hope of a comeback. The game marked not just the second loss in a row for Oregon, but the second time in two weeks that Oregon's final possession ended on a Maurice Brown interception. "It hurts, no question about it, losing our last two games by a total of four points," said Oregon GM Grid Iron, pointing out that their last two opponents are a combined 7-1. "But close only counts in horseshoes and hand grenades--not the CFL." Around the League Chicago RB Arthur Brady, whose CFL single-game rushing record was broken earlier this year, is back in the record books after carrying the ball 47 times in a 30-27 victory over the Detroit Vampires. Brady finished the day with 223 rushing yards and a touchdown. Brady's 47 attempts broke his own record of 45, which he set in 2004. Box Score Attendance: 69,700 (73,300). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:37 PM. |
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03-14-2005, 09:50 PM
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#10 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Declawed!Oregon posts 16-3 victory over Tulsa TalonsWeek 5, 2006
Tulsa, OK (Reuters) -- Heading into Tulsa with a two-game losing streak, the Oregon Ice desperately needed someone to have a big game. They got it in cornerback Tommy Reagan, who twice picked off Donnie Lowe deep inside Ice territory within in the final 15:45 to preserve Oregon's 16-3 victory over the Talons. "I was in the zone today, I guess," said a humble Reagan, who doubled his career interception total Sunday. "We practiced hard all week to defend [Tulsa], and we executed our plan to perfection today."  Apparently, the Ice practiced good timing more than anything. Reagan's first interception was at the Oregon 17-yard line and occurred after the Talons had reached the Oregon 29 with :45 left in the third quarter. His second was at the Oregon 12 after Tulsa drove to the Ice 18-yard line with 8:29 remaining."I think that broke their will," said Ice quarterback Maurice Brown (215 yards, 1 TD, 1 INT). "After Tommy grabbed that second pass, the wind kind of went out of them." Oregon also benefited from Tulsa's erratic kicker Eddie Spires, who started in place of injured Joseph Dunford. On the day, Spires made a 42-yard field goal, but missed twice from 48 yards out. In contrast, Oregon kicker Craig Schanding was perfect, nailing field goals of 20, 47 and 54 yards. Schanding has yet to miss a kick this season and currently leads the CFL with 13 field goals. The victory allowed Oregon (3-2)to pull into a tie with Seattle for second place in the Ring of Ice Division. Tulsa (2-3) dropped its second in a row, dropping into a tie for last in the Cavalry Division. Around the League The single-game rushing record didn't last long, as career backup RB Joseph Gallego (36/39) ran for 243 yards and two touchdowns in Honolulu's 38-23 victory over Sacramento. Gallego, starting for the injured Colin Sonkin, broke the 236-yard record set by Albany RB Joel Foran in Week 1 of this season. Box Score Attendance: 64,900 (79,700). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:37 PM. |
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03-14-2005, 10:01 PM
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#11 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Derailed!Ice beat Boxcars with late FG, 30-28Week 6, 2006
Portland, OR (Ticker) -- LDE Brian Vanegas returned a blocked punt 20 yards for a score and K Craig Schanding nailed the 28-yard game-winning field goal with :22 left on the clock to give Oregon a 30-28 victory over Fargo. The victory vaulted the Ice (4-2) into a three-way tie for first in the Ring of Ice Division with Seattle (4-2) and Boise City (4-2).  "This was a real team victory" said QB Maurice Brown, who had his best start of the season, completing 21 of 37 for 288 yards, 2 TDs (1 rush, 1 pass) and 1 INT. "I think, in the end, it was clear that our team wanted this game more than the other team."It looked like the Ice were going to run away with it after jumping out to a 14-3 lead early in the second quarter. Fargo's high octane offense, however, finally started hitting on all cylinders and went on a 25-7 run, with Oregon's only score coming when Brian Vanegas returned the blocked punt for a touchdown. Trailing 28-21 late in the third quarter, the Ice defense finally stepped up, forcing Fargo to punt on three consecutive possessions. The Ice took advantage, putting together three consecutive scoring drives, all of which ended with Craig Schanding field goals (49, 21, and 28 yards), including the game winner. Oregon LCB Orlando Pilcher put to rest any thoughts of a Fargo comeback when he intercepted QB Dwayne Bridges at the Boxcar 44 with :15 remaining in the game. Next week, the Ice host the Boise Stampede in a game that could have major playoff implications. Both teams are tied for first in the division and Oregon has a chance to clinch the tie-breaker, having defeated the Stampede 34-28 in Week 1. Around the League The Tucson Toros (5-0) and the Huntington Beach Capitalists (5-0) are the CFL's only undefeated teams after each rallied for a late comeback victory in Week 6. The Toros defeated the Las Vegas Rounders 16-13 on a 32-yard field goal as time expired. The Capitalists pulled out a 12-7 victory over the Sacramento Dragons after scoring the go-ahead touchdown with 3:41 left in the game. Huntington Beach travels to Tucson in Week 7 for a showdown of unbeatens. Box Score Attendance: 69,700 (73,300) Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:38 PM. |
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03-15-2005, 12:18 PM
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#12 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Yippee-ki-yay!Oregon Ice corral Boise Stampede, 20-10Week 7, 2006
Portland, OR (AP) – The Oregon Ice passed another difficult test Sunday, defeating division rival Boise by a score of 20-10, and extending the team’s win streak to three games. The victory was the third straight for the Ice (5-2), and kept them tied with the Seattle Thunderbirds (5-2) for first place in the Ring of Ice Division.  “We’re on a roll,” said Oregon wide receiver Matt Brunner, who was named game MVP after making 11 catches for 128 yards and the go-ahead touchdown in the third quarter. Brunner's 698 total receiving yards leads the league. “We just need to stay focused and take it one game at a time.”Early on, it seemed as if Boise (nine point underdogs) would pull the upset in Portland. The Stampede built a 10-0 lead late in the second quarter, and could have had more if not for an interception on a fake field goal attempt at the Oregon 25. The Ice, however, never backed down. Quarterback Maurice Brown led the Ice on a 71-yard, 5:39 scoring drive that ended with RB Lamont Funderburk’s 16-yard touchdown run around left tackle on 3rd-and-16 with :48 left in the half to pull Oregon within three points at 10-7. After the intermission, it was all Oregon as the defense shut Boise out and the offense added Brunner’s touchdown and two Craig Schanding field goals to seal the win.  The victory, however, was not without a price. Maurice Brown suffered a broken clavicle on the final play of the third quarter and will miss seven weeks. The injury occurred when Brown was hit as he threw a 17-yard pass to WR Alden Roy to the Oregon 49."I just fell awkwardly, and I heard something crack," Brown said. "I'm disappointed, but I know these guys are gonna keep it going until I get back." Rookie QB Grant Grady came in and completed the drive, connecting on two of his three passes for 21 yards to set up Schanding’s first field goal of the day, a 50-yarder. On the day, Grady finished 9-of-14 for 106 yards, 0 TD and 0 INT, and was responsible for two scoring drives. Grady will get his first NFL start next week at Denver. “I’m excited for the opportunity,” said Grady. “I just wish it wasn’t because someone got hurt.” Around the League In the battle of unbeatens, the Tucson Toros (6-0) edged the Huntington Beach Capitalists (5-1) by a score of 13-10 after K Ruben Castorena hit a 29-yard field goal with 1:08 left in the game. Four of Tucson’s six wins this year have been by three points or less. Box Score Attendance: 69,700 (73,300). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:38 PM. |
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03-15-2005, 12:29 PM
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#13 |
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College Starter
Join Date: Dec 2000
Location: Sweden
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Great format, GI - the pictures really add to the stories..
__________________
San Diego Chargers (HFL) - Lappland Reindeers (WOOF) - Gothenburg Giants (IHOF) Indiana: A TCY VC - year 2044 - the longest running dynasty ever on FOFC! |
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03-15-2005, 10:15 PM
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#14 | |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Quote:
Thanks! I think it looks pretty nice. I figured since I was writing for the CFL forums, I might as well post my stories over here. Of course, these posts get little extras like "Around the League" and box scores. |
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03-16-2005, 01:36 PM
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#15 |
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Pro Rookie
Join Date: Oct 2000
Location: Illinois
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Great stuff, GI. Rock on!
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03-16-2005, 06:53 PM
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#16 |
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College Prospect
Join Date: Jul 2001
Location: Nebraska
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Wow.... this dynasty thread is really cool... Great job.... And I would just like to say that HURST was worth every penny because my backup George Pitts sucks.......
__________________
JJ Smitty Owner of the TheC.F.L. - Come by and check us out. |
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03-18-2005, 09:10 AM
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Ka-Boom!Dynomite blow away Oregon’s 3-game win streak, 23-10Week 8, 2006
Denver, CO (ESPN) – The pain of Oregon QB Maurice Brown's broken clavicle could not be felt more by his teammates than it did yesterday, as the Ice lost for the first time in four games by a score of 23-10 to the Denver Dynomite. It was the first time the Ice played without their starting QB this year due to injury, and instead relied on untested rookie Grant Grady, who finished the day just 16-of-37 for 124 yards, 0 TDs and 4 INT. The loss dropped the Ice (5-3) into second place in the Ring of Ice Division, a half game behind idle Seattle (5-2). The team stayed a half-game ahead of Boise (4-3), which also had their bye week.  "I feel terrible," said a dejected Grady, who was under pressure all day. "I’ve just got to turn the page and get ready for next week."Not all of the blame, however, should be placed on team's second round pick (21st overall) out of Southern University. Grady was on the run the entire game due to Oregon’s inability to stop the Dynomite’s defensive line. On the day, Grady was hurried nine times and Denver’s one-man wrecking crew, RDE Zachary Duggan sacked him twice. "I’m an unstoppable force to be reckoned with!" shouted the boisterous Duggan, known for his celebratory dances after knocking he quarterback down. "They got a better chance at stopping a bulldozer than they do me!" Duggan's most significant play came with 11:48 left in the first quarter, setting the tone for what was to come. On second-and-three from the Oregon 13, Duggan sacked Grady for a seven yard loss. Grady’s pass fell incomplete on the next play, and Denver LDE Roosevelt Ezell blocked the ensuing punt, which LDT Gary Davis recovered in the end zone for a touchdown and a 7-0 lead. Despite Oregon's struggles on offense, the defensive unit had a solid game. The Ice had four interceptions, two by SS Alphonso Twombly, a fumble recovery and allowed just 242 yards on the day. The Ice defense gave up just 66 rushing yards, for a 2.3 yards-per-carry average. "Our defense only had one breakdown," said Oregon GM Jack "Grid" Iron, referring to Denver's 95-yard touchdown pass with 6:56 left in the game to put the Dynomite up 23-3. "The defensive unit only gave up 16 of the 23 points they scored on us, and only 9 through the first three quarters." Around the League The CFL’s final remaining undefeated team lost yesterday on the road as the Tucson Toros (6-1) fell to the Sacramento Dragons (3-4) by a score of 31-14. Box Score Attendance: 79,000 (80,100). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:39 PM. |
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03-22-2005, 06:54 PM
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#18 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Northern Exposure!Oregon puts Anchorage on ice with wild finish, 19-3Week 9, 2006
 Portland, OR (AP) – Oregon CB Orlando Pilcher had a game-breaking interception and WR Kendrick Dillon returned a kick for a touchdown as the Ice pulled away late for a 19-3 victory over the Anchorage Renegades.The victory allowed Oregon (6-3) to keep within striking distance of Seattle (6-2) and stay a half game ahead of Boise (5-3) in the Ring of Ice Division. Oregon currently holds one of the two wild card spots in the Western Football Conference. “We battled all day long,” said Oregon SS Alphonso Twombly, who had eight tackles (6 solo) and one sack. “We were able to hang in there until the right opportunity and seized it.” Opportunity came in the fourth quarter, when the Ice defense and special teams sealed the victory with three big plays. The first came with 13:04 to play and the score knotted at 3-3. On first-and-15 from the Oregon 45, Orlando Pilcher picked off Anchorage QB Guy Dendy at the 30 and returned it 56 yards to set up RB Terry Woodard’s 14-yard touchdown run, giving the home team a 10-3 advantage.  The second big play came with just 3:24 left in the game when P Jay Sheehee’s punt from the Oregon 41 was downed at the Anchorage 7-yard line. Three plays later, Oregon was celebrating another score as Dendy’s 13-yard completion on third-and-13 from the 4 was negated by a holding penalty in the end zone, giving Oregon a safety. “I was just trying to do my job and pin ‘em deep,” said Sheehee of his kick. The third, and final, big play of the game occurred when WR/KR Kendrick Dillon returned the ensuing free kick 84 yards for a touchdown. “I found a seam, and just went for it,” said Dillon, who now has three career kick returns for touchdowns and leads the CFL with a 25.4 kickoff return average among players with more than 20 chances. Surprisingly, the only special teams player to have an off-day was the normally reliable Craig Schanding. Schanding, who came into the game 19-of-20, made a 46-yard kick, but missed from 51 and 53 yards. “I needed to make those kicks,” said Schanding, who expects perfection even from great distances. “The team pays me to make the long ones, too.” Around the League Seattle QB Charles Dever, named CFL Player of the Week, is making a strong case for league MVP. Thus far, he has thrown for 1,761 yards, 18 TD and 2 INT in 9 games. In Seattle's 37-24 victory over Tulsa this week, Dever was 22-of-27 for 287 yards, 4 TD, and 0 INT. He also rushed three times for 91 yards and a score. Box Score Attendance: 69,700 (73,300). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:39 PM. |
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03-26-2005, 10:10 AM
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#19 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Ice Sign Veteran QBThomas Kuhn will start Week 11 divisional showdownWeek 10, 2006Portland, OR (AP) - Just days before the Oregon Ice (6-3) hit the road for a Week 11 divisional showdown with the Seattle Thunderbirds (7-2), team general manager Grid Iron announced the signing of 34-year-old quarterback Thomas Kuhn. Kuhn, who signed a $930,000 one-year deal with a $100,000 signing bonus, played the last two seasons as a backup with the Boise Stampede and is expected to start Sunday.  The signing certainly wasn’t a surprise, since rookie QB Grant Grady (259 yards, 0 TD, 5 INT) has struggled starting the last two games for injured Maurice Brown. “We need some stability and experience heading into the home stretch,” said head coach Kendrick Upshaw.Although Kuhn’s career numbers aren’t impressive (1,437 yards, 4 TD, 12 INT), he is considered a leader on the field (84 rating) and knows how to win. In 2005, he stepped in when Boise QB Branden Lin suffered a season-ending injury, and led the Stampede to a 5-1 record over the final six games to win the Ring of Ice Division. In last year's divisional playoff, Kuhn orchestrated a 53-yard game-winning drive with just 1:30 left on the clock in Boise’s 20-17 victory over Tucson. Although Boise lost to eventual CFL Bowl winner Honolulu in the WFC Championship, Kuhn had already made a statement. “I play with my heart,” said the 6’1”, 208-pound Kuhn, who specializes in throwing the deep ball. “I’ve always been the underdog, and I love to prove people wrong.” If history was any guide, Sunday’s game against Seattle would be an easy win for the Ice. Against the Thunderbirds, Oregon has won five of six, including the last four, and outscored the Thunderbirds 161 to 83. Kuhn himself beat Seattle on the road last year in Boise’s 34-9 victory in Week 17 to clinch the division title. Unfortunately, the Seattle team Oregon will face on Sunday is not the same squad that finished the last three seasons with a combined 8-40 record. Seattle QB Charles Dever is having an MVP season (1,967 yards passing, 20 TD, 2 INT) and RB Burt Liskiewicz (539 yards rushing, 3 TD) is have a solid rookie campaign. “It’s like comparing apples and oranges--they’re not the same team as they were over last three years,” said Grid Iron. “Aylmar’s put a great team together. We’re really gonna have to battle to get a win.” Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-17-2005 at 03:45 PM. |
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03-29-2005, 09:12 PM
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#20 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Bombs Away!Thunderbirds leave Ice shellshocked, 31-24Week 11, 2006
Seattle, WA (Reuters) - Oregon’s new starting quarterback had a career game, but it wasn’t enough as the Seattle Thunderbirds rallied for 15 fourth-quarter points to win their first game against the Ice since 2003.  The loss dropped Oregon (6-4) into the third spot in the wild card race, one game behind Boise (7-3) and two back of Honolulu (8-2). Oregon is two games back of division-leading Seattle (8-2).It appeared as if the momentum had shifted toward the Ice late in the third quarter when, after trailing the whole game, Oregon broke through with a 17-16 lead on an 80-yard touchdown drive. Unfortunately, the Ice soon reverted to their old ways of giving up big points in the final period. After allowing just 16 through the first 45 minutes, Oregon gave up 15 points on two Thunderbirds touchdowns, putting the visitors in a 31-17 hole. “We really wanted this win, and I dropped the ball, literally,” said Ice QB Thomas Kuhn, who completed 22 of 31 (70%) for 251 yards and a career-high three touchdowns against no interceptions in his first game of the 2006 season, but fumbled at the Oregon 6 to set up Seattle’s final, and decisive, touchdown. “If I don’t put the ball on the ground, we might have won this game.”  The Ice pulled to within one score when Kuhn threw his third touchdown of the day to WR Matt Brunner with 0:37 left on the clock, but Seattle recovered the onside kick to end the game. Brunner finished the day with 9 catches for 93 yards, giving him 866 receiving yards on the year—the best in the league.Despite Oregon’s winning record, it is evident the team struggles against the league’s elite teams. In the team’s four games against the current divisional leaders, the Ice are a combined 1-3. Against the rest of the league, Oregon is 5-1. “We need to step it up,” said GM Jack “Grid” Iron. “We’ve got to close some ground quickly if we’re gonna make the playoffs.” Oregon's regular starting quarterback Maurice Brown, out since Week 8 with a broken clavicle, is coming along well in rehab. “We expect Maurice to be back to full strength in two or three more weeks,” said head coach Kendrick Upshaw. Around the League New York DE Jerrold Moton was named Player of the Week after recording four sacks and six tackles in the Knights’ 20-10 victory over Hartford. Box Score Attendance: 59,100 (65,700). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:40 PM. |
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04-01-2005, 07:53 AM
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#21 | |
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lolzcat
Join Date: May 2001
Location: williamsburg, va
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I'm jealous.. I wanted to do this with my dynasty, but I ahven't even had the time to do text for it..
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Text Sports Network - Bringing you statistical information for several FOF MP leagues in one convenient site Quote:
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04-01-2005, 10:43 AM
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#22 | |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Quote:
Don't be too jealous. At least you have a life!  If my wife didn't work until 9pm every night of the week, I probably wouldn't be able to write a dynasty either!  |
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04-01-2005, 03:52 PM
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Shatter Proof!Ice defense bends, doesn’t break in 23-20 thrillerWeek 12, 2006
 Portland, OR (Ticker) – In a game that had major playoff implications for both teams, Oregon edged the New Orleans Breakers 23-20 today with a 47-yard Craig Schanding field goal as time expired. The win vaulted oregon (7-4) past Boise (7-4) into the second wild card spot behind the Tucson Toros (8-3), and just one back of division leading Seattle (8-3).“I just did what they pay me to do,” said a humble Schanding, who leads the league in scoring (95 points) and is 24-of-27 on the year in field goals. “But don’t thank me. Without the big stop by the defense, I never would have had the opportunity.” The “stop” Schanding was referring to was the gutsy, and game-saving, defensive stand to hold New Orleans to a field goal late in the fourth quarter. Clinging to a 20-17 lead with 1:36 to go, the Ice secondary was burned for a 58-yard pass to the Oregon 5-yard line. After holding the Breakers to four rushing yards on two plays, the defense prepared for a decisive 3rd-and-goal from the one-yard-line. At the snap of the ball, Oregon MLB Brian Macaluso knocked New Orleans C Kerry Ruby on his back, giving DE Brian Vanegas a clean shot at a Breakers RB Brooks Creel. Immediately after Creel took the handoff, Vanegas pounded him into the grass for a one-yard loss, forcing New Orleans to settle for three. “That was huge,” said Vanegas. “Macaluso made the hole and I went right through.” After the stop, the Ice bench erupted with cheers. The momentum had clearly swung in favor of Oregon. “We got fired up,” said Oregon QB Thomas Kuhn. “And it spilled over into our final possession.”  Oregon took over at their own 33 with just :37 on the clock. Kuhn and Company needed to work fast, and they did. Kuhn connected with WR Kendrick Dillon for 21 yards on the first play from scrimmage and hit WR Matt Brunner with a 15-yard pass on the next play. After RB Terry Woodard got one yard on a run around left tackle, Schanding came on with :06 on the clock to kick the game-winner. Not only did the Ice win the game, but several statistical milestones were reached. Kuhn, playing for injured Maurice Brown, threw for a career-high 361 yards. Woodard had the first 100-yard rushing game of his career after carrying 24 times for 103 yards (4.2 avg). It was also the first time a single runner broke the 100-yard mark for Oregon this season. Brunner had 11 catches for 137 receiving yards, giving him 1,003 on the year, the best in the league. Last, Oregon racked up a season-best 507 yards of offense and controlled the ball for 38:45. Now, the Ice will play three of their next four games on the road. The only consolation is that those opponents are a combined 9-35 this year. “We can’t get complacent,” said GM Grid Iron. “Those teams prepare hard just like the rest of the league. When you start thinking ‘this week is an easy win,’ you’ve already lost.” Around the League Tampa Bay kicker Felton Cooper set a CFL single-game record with seven field goals. On the day he was 7-for-7, making kicks of 20, 23, 29, 31,36, 40 and 43 yards as the Torpedoes (5-6) posted a 28-6 victory over Sacramento (5-6). Cooper also made his only PAT kick. Box Score Attendance: 69,700 (73,300). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:41 PM. |
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04-03-2005, 06:40 AM
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#24 | |
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High School JV
Join Date: Jan 2002
Location: New Zealand
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Quote:
It looks like Dillon has finally found his home in Oregon. I let him walk after the 2003 season, and he's played for Baltimore, Detroit, and Boise before finally joining the Ice this season. That was a nice free agent pickup by you! |
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04-04-2005, 10:25 AM
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#25 | |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Quote:
He's been a nice surprise! Kendrick is one of the top kick returners in the league, makes big catches in the clutch (75 big play receiving) and took one to the house to ice our recent victory over Anchorage. |
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04-05-2005, 09:35 PM
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Hard Time!Ice lock up 14-7 victory over OutlawsWeek 13, 2006
Portland, OR (Ticker) – Quarterback Thomas Kuhn continued his incredible revival and Oregon’s newest player nearly set a team rushing record as the Ice prevailed over the Outlaws by a score of 14-7 yesterday. The victory allowed Oregon (8-4) to maintain the second wild card spot behind the Tucson Toros (8-4). The Ice still remain one game back of Seattle (9-3) in the race for the division. The Ice certainly didn’t impress early when Jay Sheehee’s punt from the Oregon 17 was blocked and recovered for an Arizona touchdown, giving the Outlaws a 7-0 lead. After that, however, it was all Oregon. Quarterback Thomas Kuhn, now 8-3 in his career as a starter, capped a 78-yard scoring drive with a six-yard touchdown pass to Matt Brunner late in the first quarter. Then, with :20 to go in the first half, running back Richard Saunders ran 24 yards around left tackle to give the home team the lead for good, 14-7.  Saunders, who signed a one-year $1 million contract last week, made the most of his third career start, and first since 2004. On 28 carries, Saunders rushed for 161 yards (5.75 avg), which was one short of the franchise record set by Rodger Rubenstein in 2003. Seven of his 28 runs went for 10 yards more, including two for 24 yards each.“I knew if I just had the opportunity, I could show them what I could do,” said Saunders, who was a backup for Fargo since 2003, but was cut after six games this year. “Of course, it makes it a whole lot easier to run when you've got someone like Matt (Brunner) to stretch the field.” “Stretching the field” is an understatement in light of how well flanker Matt Brunner has been playing lately. Brunner was named Player of the Game for the second time this season after making nine catches for 143 yards and a score, and set career highs in receptions (78), receiving yards (1,146) and touchdowns (7). “I’ve just been in the zone, I guess,” said Brunner, who has 29 catches for 373 yards and three touchdowns in the last three games. “I just want to keep it going as long as I can.” The game wasn’t nearly as close as the score indicated, given that Oregon was driving and reached the Arizona 7 when time expired. A third-quarter fumble by Saunders at the Arizona 5 also left points off the board. The victory, however, was due mostly to a dominant Oregon defense which held Arizona to 232 total yards, and just 82 through the air. Oregon will now play three consecutive games on the road as the team begins the home stretch for the playoffs. “Our season could very well be decided in the next three weeks,” said Oregon GM Grid Iron. “Everyone on this team knows what's at stake.” Around the League Shreveport quarterback Douglas Hartman was 20-of-26 for 362 yards, 5 TD and 0 INT as the Pride (8-4) crushed Cleveland (3-9) by a score of 49-24 to stay one game ahead of New Orleans (7-5) in the Deep South Division race. Box Score Attendance: 69,700 (73,300). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:41 PM. |
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04-09-2005, 01:49 PM
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Ouch!San Antonio stings Ice with 32-27 victoryWeek 14, 2006
San Antonio, TX (AP) – In what many expected to be an easy Ice victory yesterday turned into a stinging defeat, as San Antonio took advantage of five turnovers and held off a late rally to post a 32-27 upset over Oregon. Despite the loss, Oregon (8-5) maintained its hold on the final wild card spot because Boise (8-5) lost 27-24 in overtime to Shreveport (9-4). The team also stayed just one back of division leading Seattle (9-4), which lost 34-24 at home to the Memphis Express (3-10). “We shot ourselves in the foot,” said head coach Kendrick Upshaw. “If you turn the ball over five times, odds are you're not going to win.”  Despite taking an early 7-3 lead on a 45-yard touchdown pass from Thomas Kuhn to flanker Matt Brunner, the Oregon offense proceeded to give the game away, turning the ball over three times in six possessions. All three times, the Stingers took over in Oregon territory and scored. When the dust finally settled at the end of the third quarter, San Antonio had built a 32-7 lead.Amazingly, the Ice nearly won the game. Thomas Kuhn, who struggled early, finally found his groove in the fourth quarter. Kuhn led three touchdown drives to pull the visitors within five points at 32-27 with :39 left in the game, but San Antonio recovered the onside kick to seal the victory. “I just made too many mistakes,” said Kuhn who, despite throwing four touchdowns, turned the ball over just as many times. All four proved to be decisive. His interception with 1:48 left in the first half led to a San Antonio field goal. His third-quarter fumble at the Oregon 13 led to San Antonio’s second touchdown of the day. His final two turnovers killed potential game-winning fourth-quarter drives: an interception in the end zone on a pass from the San Antonio 32 and a fumble at the San Antonio 29. “This one really hurts, because we should have won this game, no question.” Despite the loss, Oregon’s receiving corps had a great game. Brunner caught six passes for 135 yards and two touchdowns and split end Alden Roy had six catches for 101 yards and a touchdown. Wide receiver Kendrick Dillon had 3 receptions for 48 yards, including a 24-yard touchdown catch. “Yeah, I think we should have won this game,” said an irate Grid Iron, the team’s owner and GM. “But there’s no crying in football. We need to regroup and get ready for our road trip to Anchorage.” Iron declined to state who would be the starting quarterback next week. Maurice Brown, who has been sidelined the past six weeks with a broken clavicle, is listed as probable. Around the League Anchorage (4-9), which had been scoring an average of 16.0 points per game, nearly doubled that yesterday in a 31-20 road victory over New Orleans (7-6). It was the first game for Anchorage under the team’s new owner Stretch, who changed the nickname from the Renegades to the Wolfpack. Welcome to the league, Stretch! Box Score Attendance: 69,700 (73,200). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:42 PM. |
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04-12-2005, 08:17 PM
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Animal Cruelty!Ice tame Wolfpack 38-13, pull into tie for division leadWeek 15, 2006
Anchorage, AK (Reuters) – Oregon quarterback Thomas Kuhn had the best game of his career and cornerback Tommy Reagan had two fourth-quarter interceptions, as the Ice crushed the Anchorage Wolfpack by a score of 38-13.  The victory pulled Oregon into a tie for first with Seattle (9-5) and Boise (9-5), putting the Ice in control of their own destiny. Since Oregon owns the head-to-head tiebreaker over Boise, the Ice will clinch the division with a win next week at Memphis and a victory over Seattle at home the following week. Oregon still controls the second wild card spot behind Tucson (10-4).“This is what it's all about,” said Kuhn, who completed 23-of-33 for 355 yards, five touchdowns and no interceptions. “Being right in the thick of the playoff race heading into the final two weeks of the season.” In Oregon's eighth visit to Anchorage in franchise history, the Ice started fast out of the gate by going 66 yards in the opening drive to take a 7-0 lead on a 13-yard touchdown pass from Kuhn to tight end Newton Begin. Anchorage responded with a 56-yard scoring drive to tie the game at 7-7, but after that it was all Ice. Oregon scored touchdowns on two of their next three possessions, and took a 21-7 lead into the locker room at halftime. The Ice upped the score to 31-10 late in the third after Kendrick Dillon caught a touchdown pass and kicker Craig Schanding nailed a 31-yard field goal. Dillon’s 16-yard touchdown catch early in the fourth upped Oregon’s lead to 38-10, and a field goal by Anchorage kicker Donnell Mathis with 1:53 to go finished the scoring. The Ice defense also turned in a great effort. After allowing the home team to go 56 yards in their initial possession, the defense held the Wolfpack to just 21 yards on 17 plays for the remainder of the first half. Cornerback Tommy Reagan, whose two fourth-quarter interceptions led to 10 Oregon points, put to rest any chance of a late Anchorage comeback.  Not surprisingly, the rout was a statistical bonanza for Oregon’s receivers. Tight end Newton Begin and wide receiver Kendrick Dillon both had two touchdowns catches each. Split end Alden Roy had 101 yards receiving, including catches of 37 and 49 yards. Finally, flanker Matt Brunner had 8 catches for 155 yards and a touchdown. Brunner is currently tied for first in the league in receptions (92), and is second in receiving yards (1,437) and touchdowns (10).At the post game press conference, head coach Kendrick Upshaw announced that Thomas Kuhn will get the starting nod next week at Memphis, despite the fact that Maurice Brown has fully recovered from a broken clavicle he suffered in Week 7. “He’s earned the job,” Upshaw said of Kuhn, who led Boise to a division title last year. “The offense is clicking right now, so I don’t want to make any major changes heading into the final two weeks.” In five starts this year, Kuhn has thrown for 1,543 yards, 15 touchdowns and just four interceptions for a 112.3 rating. Brown, who was the team’s starting quarterback at the beginning of the season, was gracious in accepting his role as backup. “I haven’t played in eight weeks and Tom has been on fire, so I understand,” said Brown. “I’m just going to prepare like I always do, so if something happens to Tom I’ll be ready to go.” Around the League Fargo’s Dwayne Bridges set a CFL single-game record with 39 completions, leading the Boxcars (8-6) to a 26-13 victory over Tulsa (4-10). On the day, he was 39-of-45 for 354 yards, 4 TD, and 0 INT. Box Score Attendance: 46,700 (72,700). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:42 PM. |
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04-16-2005, 11:32 AM
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#29 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Return to Sender!Oregon stops Express in 35-16 victoryWeek 16, 2006
 Memphis, TN (ESPN) – The Oregon Ice overcame cold weather and rain to crush the Memphis Express 35-16, setting the stage for a winner-take-all divisional showdown next week.The victory kept Oregon tied with Seattle (10-5) and Boise (10-5) atop the Ring of Ice Division. Next week, the Ice host the Thunderbirds in a game that will determine the division championship. An Ice victory will give Oregon its third divisional title in four years. If the Ice lose, the team can still make the playoffs as a wildcard. To clinch the final wild card spot, Oregon would need a Boise loss coupled with one of the two following scenarios: 1) a Huntington Beach loss; or 2) a Huntington Beach victory and Sacramento loss. “This is what it’s all about,” said Thomas Kuhn (18-of-35, 297 yards, 4 TD, 2 INT), who owns a league-leading 109.3 quarterback rating this year. “The playoffs are starting a week early for us.” For the second consecutive week, the Ice thoroughly dominated an opponent on the road in a game that was over almost before it started. In the first quarter, Oregon scored touchdowns on its first three possessions. All three drives took a total of 11 plays, lasted just four minutes and 33 seconds, and covered 236 yards. On Oregon’s first play from scrimmage, running back Richard Saunders (13 carries, 108 yards) broke a 62-yard run on a counterplay inside left tackle. One play later, Kuhn connected with wide receiver Alden Roy for a 13-yard touchdown to put the visitors up 7-0. Oregon’s second drive was highlighted by a 30-yard pass to Roy and a 25-yard run by Saunders to set up Oregon’s second touchdown of the day, giving the Ice a 14-0 lead. Oregon’s final drive of the first quarter took all of three plays, ending with a 41-yard touchdown pass from Kuhn to wide receiver Kendrick Dillon. The catch was the longest of Dillon’s career. When the first quarter finally came to a close, Kuhn was 9-of-9 for 168 yards, 3 TD and 0 INT, and Ice had a 21-0 lead. Strong Safety Alphonso Twombly delievered the death knell when he intercepted Memphis quarterback Joshua Urrutia at the Oregon 7 with 3:55 left in the first half to preserve the 21-0 lead. On the day, Twombly had 12 tackles (8 solo), 3 passes defensed and one interception. “The rain didn’t really bother me today,” said Twombly, who has a career-high 13 passes defensed this season. “We practiced in rain all week, so I was ready to boogie.” Now, the Ice will head home for their final regular season game against the Seattle Thunderbirds. “The Ring of Ice title comes down to one game between the division leaders,” said GM Grid Iron. “I wouldn’t want it any other way.” Around the League New Orleans wide receiver Ronald Tibbetts set a single-season record when he made 9 catches for 198 yards in the Breakers' (7-8) 24-21 loss to Boise. Tibbetts now has 1,635 yards receiving on the year, breaking the previous record of 1,547 set by Rueben Albertson in 2004. Box Score Attendance: 64,200 (64,500). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:43 PM. |
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04-19-2005, 04:15 PM
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#30 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Payback!Ice avenge Week 11 loss, clinch division titleWeek 17, 2006
Portland, OR (AP) – Thomas Kuhn had his worst start of the year but came through with the game on the line, as Oregon beat the Seattle Thunderbirds 19-13 in overtime to clinch the team’s third Ring of Ice Division title in four years. “It was a battle out there today,” said Kuhn, who finished 23-of-46 for 292 yards, one touchdown and three interceptions. “The important thing is that we got the win and we’re in the playoffs.”  Unlike Oregon’s blowout victories over the last two weeks, this one was close the entire way.Seattle scored first on a 33-yard field goal, but the Ice responded on their ensuing possession to tie the game at 3-3 on a 44-yard field goal by Craig Schanding. Seattle eventually took a 10-3 lead into the locker room at the half after a 95-yard touchdown drive that covered 7:46. Things were looking grim for Oregon the third quarter when the Thunderbirds, leading 10-3, were closing in on another score. On first down from the Oregon 23, however, weak-side linebacker Daniel Beane recorded his second forced fumble of the year when he tackled Seattle running back Burt Liszkiewicz after a three-yard run. Oregon middle linebacker Brian Macaluso picked up the ball and was finally brought down at the Oregon 33. The turnover seemed to inspire the offense, as Oregon went on a 67-yard scoring drive that ended with Kuhn’s 15-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Matt Brunner, tying the game at 10-10. “We got fired up,” said Kuhn, who was sacked twice and hurried 10 times in the game. “This team just doesn't quit.” Eventually, Oregon took the lead on their final possession of regulation. Starting at the Oregon 34, the Ice went 35 yards to set up Schanding’s 48-yard go-ahead field goal, giving the home team a 13-10 advantage. On the drive, Kuhn was 2-of-4 for 20 yards and converted twice on third down. Oregon’s lead, however, was short-lived. Seattle quarterback Charles Dever completed passes of 19 and 46 yards to set up Seattle game-tying 38-yard field goal with 0:12 on the clock, sending the game to overtime.  In the extra period, Oregon won the coin toss and elected to receive but stalled after just six plays. The Ice needed a great punt, and got it from Jay Sheehee. Sheehee’s punt from the Oregon 40 went 58 yards, rolling out of bounds at the Seattle 2. The punt was crucial because three plays later, the Thunderbirds had to punt from their own end zone. The kick went only 27 yards and cornerback Augustus Eaddy called for a fair catch at the Seattle 33. “I just wanted to give our defense a chance to get us good field position,” said Sheehee of his “coffin corner” punt. “I guess I did alright.” He did better than “alright.” Sheehee, who has become one of the premier punters in the CFL, had two of his four kicks on the day marked down inside the five yard line, and one inside the 15. Given a second chance to win the game in overtime and great field position, Thomas Kuhn did not disappoint. On the second play from scrimmage, he connected with split end Alden Roy for a 20-yard pass to the Seattle 13. The play moved Oregon well within Schanding’s field goal range, so coach Kendrick Upshaw decided to play it conservative. Halfback Richard Saunders ran inside right tackle for four yards, and then broke free for nine yards around left end to score the game-winning touchdown. Next week, Oregon will face the Boise Stampede (11-5), the team that Kuhn led to a Ring of Ice Division title last season after starting quarterback Branden Lin suffered a season-ending injury in Week 9. “I don't hold a grudge,” Kuhn, who was released by Boise in the offseason. “That's Branden's team, and I wanted an opportunity to start. I was just keeping his seat warm." Around the League Fargo quarterback Dwayne Bridges finished the year with a new single-season record for completions (442), passing yards (5215), and touchdowns (47) in leading the Boxcars to a 10-6 record. Box Score Attendance: 69,700 (73,300). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 09:43 PM. |
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04-20-2005, 12:52 AM
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#31 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Oregon in the News!With the playoffs just a day away, the Oregon Ice are getting a lot of press on their improbable season, as well as their prospects for the postseason.CFL Guru’s 2006 Playoff Preview: Oregon Ice (11-5) - The Ice are serious about winning the Ring of Ice division. After winning division titles in 2003 and 2004, the team finished 9-7 in 2005 and missed the playoffs. In reaction to this the team released RB Rodger Rubenstein after three straight 1000-yard seasons and traded away 2003 CFL Bowl MVP QB Landon Hurst. The result: A record of 11-5 and their 3rd division title in 4 years. Now that the playoffs are here the media is starting a quarterback controversy between opening day starter Maurice Brown (5-2 in 7 starts) and current starter Thomas Kuhn (also 5-2 in 7 starts). Read more of CFL Guru’s playoff team capsules here. Klemu Hakkinen’s Games of the Week Boise (11-5) at Oregon (11-5)  The Ring of Ice Division has easily been the most fun to watch over the last couple of weeks. Boise pulled out enough wins to get to the playoffs and Oregon won key matchups down the line to secure their division championship. Throw in a 10-6 Seattle team that didn't make the playoffs and you have a recipe for good football. I don't think that anybody in the league scores second half points like Oregon does. They can just turn it on in the 3rd and 4th quarters. In the previous two matchups of the season, Oregon has won both of them. But those games were early in the season. Has Boise gotten better? Has Oregon gotten better? The answer to those two questions is YES, which makes this game THE game of the week. Key Injuries: Oregon looks to be pretty healthy. Sure, they've got their share of injuries, but most are not to key players. The biggest injury in the Ice's clubhouse is RT Stephen Covey who will be missing the game. Boise's biggest injury is to DT John Butt. No, he did not sprain his gluteus. Boise will be happy if CB Ibanez Foster can make it into the game to shore up the week side of their secondary. Foster is questionable for Sunday. Analysis: Boise is a hell of a Juggernaut to play. They have a turnover ratio of +17, third down conversion rate of 47.9 (best in the league) and not to mention one of the best rushing attacks in the game. On defense, they can stop the run, but have a little trouble with the passing game. Oregon, just wins. They've beaten Boise twice already this season and it's hard to figure out how they did it. They aren't very good at running the ball, but they are pretty damn good at throwing the ball. Oregon could get themselves into trouble early if they turn the ball over. However, as I mentioned earlier, the Ice are the kings of the second half. Look for Boise to go up early, but then for Oregon to come back and make it a game. Klemu's Kall: Vegas says Boise by 4. Klemu says Boise by 1. I can't wait to watch this game, it should be an instant classic. Read more of Klemu’s first-round playoff predictions here. Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-20-2005 at 01:05 AM. |
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04-21-2005, 03:43 PM
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#32 | ||||||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Heartbreaker!Ice defense melts in final two minutes, blows 8-point leadWild Card Round, 2006
Portland, OR (Ticker) – If any single game in Oregon Ice franchise history could capture the meaning of the word “heartbreak,” this would be the game. The Ice battled for three quarters to a 17-9 lead, but let it all slip away in the final two minutes, falling to the Boise Stampede 18-17 in the wild card playoff. “This is a tough one to swallow,” said Ice quarterback Thomas Kuhn, who was 21-of-43 for 274 yards, 2 touchdowns and one interception. “We were so close. I gonna remember this one for a long time.”  Despite a relentless Boise pass rush that produced seven sacks, 10 hurries and a blocked pass, Kuhn and Company managed to put 17 points on the board, giving the Ice defense an 8-point lead to preserve with just 2:04 left in regulation. To that point, Oregon had allowed just three field goals on the day, and held the Stampede to only 19 yards in three fourth-quarter possessions. To players and fans alike, an Ice playoff victory seemed to be well in hand. As it turned out, nothing was further from the truth. “I think the guys started celebrating the victory before the final whistle blew,” said head coach Kendrick Upshaw of his team’s fourth-quarter implosion. “You can’t win in the CFL unless you play a full sixty minutes.” Stampede quarterback Branden Lin moved the visiting team from the Boise 25 to the Oregon 13 on just two passes to flanker Terrance Ryan, the second one covering 46 yards. On first-and-ten at the Oregon 13 with 1:33 remaining, Lin threw incomplete; Oregon strong safety Alfonso Twombly, however, was flagged for pass interference in the end zone giving Boise a first-and-goal at the Oregon 1. On the very next play, Lin connected with Ryan again for a one-yard touchdown to pull the visitors within two points at 17-15. After Boise running back Sherman New failed to get the two-point conversion on a run around right end, the Stampede lined up for the onside kick. “If we get that kick, that’s the ballgame,” said inside linebacker Damon Molloy, who led the Ice with 12 tackles on the day (10 solo). Unfortunately, that was not to be. Conrad Fisher’s kick sent the ball high into the air off of one bounce where Stampede split end Chance Craig grabbed it on the fly at the Boise 42. Clinging to a two-point lead, the Oregon defense just needed a stop to seal the victory and advance to the Divisional Playoff. Branden Lin, however, had other plans. The Boise quarterback scrambled for seven yards on the first play from scrimmage, then burned the Oregon secondary for the second time in less than a minute by completing a 37-yard pass to Craig. Craig's incredible catch set up Fisher’s 32-yard field goal, giving the visitors the 18-17 victory. Replays showed, however, that Craig was aided by officials who failed to see his blatant offensive pass interference. Just as Craig turned to look for the ball, he pushed off on Oregon cornerback Tommy Reagan, giving him space to make the catch. Reagan recovered and made the tackle, but by then it was too late. Reagan’s pleas to the officials fell on deaf ears. “I don’t got anything else to say to those officials,” Reagan said angrily in the locker room after the game. “All I know is that when we see Boise again, we’re gonna be out for blood. We have a score to settle, and it's personal.” Box Score Attendance: 69,700 (73,300). Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-21-2005 at 10:46 PM. |
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04-21-2005, 03:58 PM
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#33 |
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General Manager
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: The Town of Flower Mound
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Klemu is psychic!
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UTEP Miners!!! I solemnly swear to never cheer for TO |
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04-21-2005, 04:07 PM
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#34 | |
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Pro Rookie
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Sunny South of France
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Quote:
Indeed! Sorry about that loss, GI. It must be a tough one to swallow... 
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Detroit Vampires (CFL) : Ve 're coming for your blood! Camargue Flamingos (WOOF): pretty in Pink |
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04-21-2005, 10:19 PM
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#35 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Norm De Plume’s Burning QuestionsOriginally published during CFL Week 16, 2006 Each week, The CFL Inquisitor sends beat reporter Norm DePlume across the country to ask the league's owners some burning questions.Today, Oregon owner Grid Iron, is under fire from Norm DePlume's Burning Questions: #10: Which player do you think has improved the most this year for Oregon? No question, it's flanker Matt Brunner. He's already set career highs in receptions (84), receiving yards (1281) and TDs (9). #9: Who's the dumbest guy on the roster? What's the dumbest thing he's done this year? I gotta say it's me. I moved an All-Pro quality FB (Tracey Woolery) to RB to help the running game, and his ratings went to sh*&. He's just taking up a roster spot now. #8: Who's your biggest rival? Why? Stretch, owner of Anchorage. Because he made a kick-ass banner. #7: Left hand or right hand? You know, for collecting your thoughts... Right handed, for sure. But left every once in a while for a change of pace. . . #6: Which player conflicts have gotten better/worse this year? Affinities? I was worried when I saw that wide receiver Kendrick Dillon had a strong affinity for Matt Brunner, but it turned out to just be a mild crush. Not there's anything wrong with that. . . #5: Which stadium do you dread playing in? Look forward to playing in? I don't really dread playing in any stadium. However, I do look forward to playing in whatever stadium the CFL Bowl is held this year! #4: Who was the target for the best prank this year? Prank details? The entire CFL. All of the Madden Mods I've posted contain a worm virus that has allowed me free access to all of the owner's personal computers. Not only have I been able to alter my opponents' gameplans and exports, but I've stolen the identities of five owners so far! Thanks for the World of Warcraft Collector's Edition ($275), Wademoore! #3: How would you evaluate your Staff this year? Scouting department? My penis is in pretty good shape. The infection went away pretty quick after the doc gave me the antibiotics. As for scouting, I'm always on the lookout for hotties. . . #2: If you could bed one guy on the team, who would it be? Totally off the record of course and I'm not on the team. If you mean my football team, it would be Teddy Woodard, no question. I like 'em small (5'8"). If you mean "The Team", JeeberD, no question. I like 'em nerdy. And Norm's #1 burning question: If you had to choose between being Shreveported in the CFL Bowl game or being gang raped by the losing team after you won it, which would you choose? Remember, you're not gay as long as you don't push back. Is it really rape if you're into it? © 2005 Norm De Plume. Reprinted with permission. Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-21-2005 at 10:27 PM. |
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04-24-2005, 09:40 AM
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#36 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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A Real CatchOregon WR Matt Brunner one of the best in the gameConference Final Week, 2006 Portland, OR (AP) – With all of Oregon’s success this season, there is no question the team could not have accomplished what it did without flanker Matt Brunner. Brunner, who was part of Oregon’s 2003 championship team, emerged this year as one of the best receivers in the CFL.“He is the gold standard in dedication,” said head coach Kendrick Upshaw. “He works as hard as anyone in practice and never takes a play off.” Brunner’s dedication to his craft was never more apparent than in his 2006 campaign. He finished the year with 1,659 receiving yards, the second most ever in a single season in the CFL. “I was so close,” Brunner said of his battle with New Orleans flanker Ronald Tibbetts for the all-time receiving yards record. “I talked to him on the phone, and we made a bet as to who would have the most at the end of the year.” Unfortunately for Brunner, he fell just 34 yards short of Tibbetts’ 1,693 yards receiving, the new league record. “Now my wife and I have to baby sit his kids while he goes to the Bahamas.” Although Matt fell shy of the receiving yards record, he nonetheless led the league in yards after the catch with 342. “What’s crazy is that he’s even more dangerous after the catch,” said teammate Kendrick Dillon, who has benefited from working with the 2003 All-League First Team wide receiver this year, setting career highs in receptions (24), yards (362) and touchdowns (5). “I owe so much of my success to just being able to watch him every day.” Brunner also tied two CFL records. His 107 receptions on the year tied him with tight end Lincoln Denning, who set the mark in 2003 with Tampa Bay, and his 12 touchdowns tied him with Santa Cruz split end Marvin Athey and Fargo split end James Doney atop the leader board.  “This was a really fun year,” said Brunner, who holds every franchise receiving record. “But I wish we could’ve made it further in the playoffs.” Win or lose, there is no question Brunner is probably the best bargain in the league. Coming off an injury-plagued 2005 season in which he had 38 catches for 567 yards in seven games, Brunner was thrilled when Ice general manager Jack “Grid” Iron approached him about renegotiating his contract. “I didn’t even know if I was going to play again,” said Brunner, who is owed just $4.72 million over the next two seasons. “I know some people think I’m underpaid, but they showed faith in me.” Brunner says his primary goal for the off-season is to make sure the team re-signs fellow wide receiver Alden Roy. Together, Roy and Brunner accounted for 168 catches, 2,586 yards receiving and 15 touchdowns. “Alden and I are best friends, and when we’re both out there on the field, we’re unstoppable.” |
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04-24-2005, 09:51 AM
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#37 |
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Head Coach
Join Date: Apr 2001
Location: Whittier
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I avenged ya GI...
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04-24-2005, 04:02 PM
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#38 |
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Pro Rookie
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: Sunny South of France
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Does his crap 'avoid drops' rating really affect his stats?
Damn, I wish I had a WR like that... sigh...
__________________
Detroit Vampires (CFL) : Ve 're coming for your blood! Camargue Flamingos (WOOF): pretty in Pink |
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04-24-2005, 04:25 PM
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#39 | ||
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Quote:
He has a 13/13 Avoid Drop rating and dropped 8.5% of his passes (107 receptions + 10 drops). By contrast, Roy Alden (58/61), who has a 67/70 Avoid Drop rating dropped 8.9% of his passes (61 receptions + 6 drops). Quote:
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04-25-2005, 11:31 AM
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#40 | |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Quote:
Dang, you smoked him. It should be interesting to see how Honolulu's offense does against Detroit. Looking forward great CFL Bowl IV! |
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04-25-2005, 01:21 PM
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#41 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Roy-Signed!Alden Roy inks new deal on eve of free agencyCFL Bowl Week, 2006Portland, OR (AP) – Just one week before the end of the season, Oregon split end Alden Roy signed a renegotiated contract that will keep him in an Ice uniform through 2008. The deal concludes a month of difficult, and sometimes strained, negotiations.  “There was definitely a time I didn’t think we would get it done,” said Roy, who was due to become an unrestricted free agent in 2007. “I’m really happy that we finally worked it out and that I’m going to be here for two more years.”Under the terms of the contract, Roy is owed just $3.3 million in base salary over the next two seasons, but received a $9 million signing bonus. “The last thing we wanted was for Alden to get on the open market,” said team GM Jack “Grid” Iron, who will now turn his attention to re-signing the team’s starting quarterback Thomas Kuhn. “We had so much success on offense this year, it’s important that we keep it going. Signing Alden was just another step to reach that goal.” Roy, who stands 5’8” and weighs 187 pounds, continues to establish himself as one of the top receivers in the league. He finished the year with 61 catches for 927 yards, and three touchdowns in just 14 games (13 starts). In addition, he is second behind Matt Brunner on the franchise career records list in three categories. The former Ohio State grad has compiled 260 catches for 3,940 yards and 24 touchdowns in four seasons with Oregon. Despite his great overall numbers, Roy played his best this year when it counted most—during Oregon’s late-season push for the division championship. In the final six games of the year, Roy caught 30 passes for 522 yards and three touchdowns in helping Oregon to a 5-1 record and the Ring of Ice title. “He’s one of the best in the game and my best friend,” said Brunner of his closest teammate. “All he does is make big plays.”  One of the ways Roy makes big plays is with his uncanny ability to get open deep. Of his 26 catches during the final five games of the year, six went for 30 yards or more, including one for 45 yards and another for 49 yards.“Without him, we don’t make the playoffs period,” said head coach Kendrick. “He catches the deep ball better than anyone in the league.” The biggest catch of Roy’s career came in the 2003 CFL Bowl, when he caught a 48-yard pass from Landon Hurst with just 1:15 on the clock to set up Claude Matsumoto’s game-winning field goal. “I’m glad we got the business side of the game out of the way,” said Roy. “Now I can focus on getting Oregon another championship.” Last edited by Grid Iron : 04-26-2005 at 03:34 PM. |
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04-27-2005, 11:45 AM
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#42 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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2006 Season ReviewAlthough the 2006 season ended sooner than I hoped, it was a great year for the Oregon Ice. The team won its third divisional title in three years, and posted an 11-5 regular season record. We also had the sixth-ranked offense in the league, scoring an average of 23.1 points per game.A nice year for a team that was picked to finish no better than 5-11 at the start of the season! I think the most impressive thing about this year was that we did it despite the departure of our starting quarterback and running back from last season. Before the season began, I set three goals for the team. While we didn’t meet all of them, we came pretty darn close. My first goal was to simply make the playoffs. We did that by winning the third division title in franchise history. Enough said about that. The second goal was for the defense to finish the year in the top 10 in fewest points allowed. Although we didn’t finish in the top 10, the defense was quite good. Overall, the team finished 14th overall with just 17.4 points allowed per game. In the red zone, the defense gave up just 4.3 points per visit, which ranked third-best in the league. The Ice also ranked 9th in takeaways, recording 10 fumble recoveries and 16 interceptions. Most importantly, the defense performed its best work in the thick of the playoff race. In the final three games of the regular season, the defense allowed an average of just 14 points per game, with the most being 16 by the Memphis Express in Week 16. The third goal was for opening day starting quarterback Maurice Brown to return to the form he had in 2003, when he threw for 3,522 yards, 23 touchdowns and 12 interceptions. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen because Brown suffered a broken clavicle in Week 7. Brown’s replacement, however, put up numbers that exceeded everyone’s expectations. Thomas Kuhn, who led Boise to a Ring of Ice Division title in 2005, did the same for Oregon this year. Kuhn finished the year with a 5-2 record, throwing for 2,132 yards, 20 touchdowns and 9 interceptions with a 98.8 rating. Without him, the team would not have won the division. Not bad for a guy who was unemployed through the first nine weeks of the season. Although the Ice won the CFL Bowl in 2003, I think this year was more fun. While the 2003 team was loaded with talent when I took over the franchise, the 2006 squad was filled with average and below-average players who rose to the occasion. Consequently, I have a much greater sense of personal satisfaction this year than I did in our championship season. Now, as I turn my attention to 2007, several big questions come to mind. Can we re-sign Thomas Kuhn? Will we be able avenge this year’s wild card loss at home to our new divisional arch-rival, the Boise Stampede? What will I do with my two first, second and third round draft picks? Only time will tell what the answers will be, so stay tuned! Awards Only one Oregon Ice player received an award for 2006. Not surprisingly, it was wide receiver Matt Brunner, who took home All-League First Team honors! Final Standings Below are the final standings for the Ring of Ice Division: Team W L T Pct PF PA Conf DivSchedule & Results Week Opponent Result Attend WeatherTeam Statistics Here is a summary of how the team performed: Oregon Ice Team RankStatistical Leaders Below are the Ice statistical leaders: Passing Pos Att Comp Yards Y/Att TD IntFinances Here is a look at how Oregon did financially: Category 2006 2005 Trend Last edited by Grid Iron : 05-01-2005 at 06:20 PM. |
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04-28-2005, 11:28 AM
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#43 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Extreme Makeover!Oregon unveils new logo, uniformStaff Hiring Stage 1, 2007Portland, OR (AP) – The Oregon Ice kicked off the 2007 season with a bang today, unveiling the team’s slick new logo and uniform.  Team general manager Jack “Grid” Iron said the new look was to commemorate the team’s fifth anniversary.“We wanted to do something special for the franchise’s fifth year in the league,” Iron said at the unveiling. “I’m very pleased with the results.” The revamped uniforms feature the team’s new logo, the Oregon Ice Devil. “He’s mean and out for blood,” said wide receiver Matt Brunner, who modeled the team’s new uniforms. “Just like all of us.” The home uniform is comprised of an ice blue jersey and pants, with a white stripe running down the side from under the arm to the bottom of the leg. The player number is written in white.  The road uniform is the same as the home uniform, except that the jersey is solid white with ice blue numbers. Public reaction to the new threads were split. “I love ‘em,” said season ticket holder Markus Blackmon. “I mean, I never really understood why green was one of the team colors. Ice isn’t green!” In contrast, some expressed outrage. “I can’t believe they chose a devil as the team mascot,” said Carroll Quint, President of the Extreme Christian Coalition of Oregon (“ECCO”). “It’s sacrilegious!” Marketing analyst Kristine Ladell said the team’s decision made financial sense. “Those new uniforms are sharp and the logo is more intimidating,” she said, predicting that Ice merchandise sales could jump 30% or more. Her prediction seems to be right on the money so far, as the Ice website sold over 500 Matt Brunner jerseys in the day following the announcement. “We’ve had a lot of requests for Thomas Kuhn jerseys, but we don’t make them,” said Grid Iron, referring to the team’s starting quarterback who is eligible for free agency this year. “Hopefully, we’ll be selling a lot of them very soon.” Last edited by Grid Iron : 05-01-2005 at 04:26 PM. |
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04-29-2005, 01:10 PM
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#44 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Digg It!Oregon lands elite DE in blockbuster tradeStaff Hiring Stage 2, 2007 Portland, OR (Ticker) – Today, Oregon Ice GM Jack “Grid” Iron announced a blockbuster trade that will bring 2005 All-League First Team defensive end Frederic Diggs to Oregon from the Chicago Hitmen.Under the terms of the deal, Oregon gets Diggs, as well as three-time All-League guard Kim Honeycutt. Chicago, which didn’t have a first round pick this year, gets the 9th and 27th overall picks, a second rounder (41st overall), as well as backup center Lino Williams. The deal is expected to save Chicago approximately $6 million in cap space. “My three priorities heading into this season were to re-sign Tommy (Kuhn), improve the pass rush, and bolster the right side of the offensive line,” said Grid Iron. “We’ve got two down, and one to go.” Diggs, who will line up opposite 2003 All-League First Team right defensive end Brian Vanegas, is the type of player that gives quarterbacks nightmares. In the past two seasons, Diggs has recorded 23.5 sacks and 59 quarterback hurries. Last year, he had 73 tackles (53 solo), 10.5 sacks (6th), 29 hurries (7th), six blocked passes (T-11th) and a forced fumble. He also owns the CFL record for sacks in a game with five, which he accomplished in 2005 against the Memphis Express. Moreover, the 6’2”, 300 pound Knoxville graduate hasn’t missed a start in four seasons. “I’m excited to be going to a team with such a great winning tradition,” said Diggs of Oregon, which has won three Ring of Ice Division titles in the last four years and the 2003 CFL Championship. “I really enjoyed my time in Chicago, but I’m looking forward to trying to bring this team another CFL Bowl victory.” The other player in the deal, Kim Honeycutt, is a beast who should open holes for the running game and cut down on sacks. The 31-year-old Ohio State grad stands 6’3” tall and weighs 308 pounds. Last year, he ranked 10th in the league with 39 key run blocks, and has a career run blocking percentage of 37.0 (140 blocks in 378 chances). He was named All-League First Team in 2004 and 2005, and All-League Second Team in 2006. Last edited by Grid Iron : 05-01-2005 at 04:26 PM. |
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05-01-2005, 06:10 PM
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#45 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Three-peat!All three members of Oregon coaching staff set to returnStaff Hiring Stage 3, 2007Portland, OR (ESPN) – The Oregon Ice announced today that head coach Kendrick Upshaw, offensive coordinator Brenden Sinclair and defensive coordinator Sammie Kohn have all been re-signed to long-term contracts.  “This was a real coup, getting all three back,” said general manager Jack “Grid” Iron of a coaching staff that has compiled a 32-18 record and two division titles over the last three years. “We have a chance to accomplish something very special, and keeping these three guys together was essential to reach that goal.”Keeping them together, as it turns out, was not an easy task. The 65-year-old Sinclair signed immediately, indicating that he intends to retire with the Ice when his $2.3 million per year contract expires after the 2009 season. Bringing Upshaw and Kohn back into the fold, however, was a different matter entirely. The Memphis Express made a strong push to sign Upshaw, offering him $2.84 million per season for three years. The offer was a compelling one, given that Upshaw grew up in Southhaven, Mississippi, just 13 miles from Memphis. Grid Iron, however, put an end to any chance of losing the team’s winningest coach by giving him a five-year $3.5 million-a-year pact. Defensive coordinator Sammie Kohn, one of the best defensive strategists in the league, fielded offers from five different teams before inking a five-year $3.11 million-a-year deal to stay with Oregon. The Albany Crows came the closest to luring Kohn away, offering him $2.96 million per year over five years. Last edited by Grid Iron : 05-01-2005 at 06:15 PM. |
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05-02-2005, 09:48 AM
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#46 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Show Them the Money!Ice hike luxury suite price to $150K per seasonPre-Free Agency Stage, 2007Portland, OR (Reuters) – Despite coming off a third divisional title in four years, the Oregon Ice showed surprising restraint when setting ticket prices for the upcoming 2007 season. The 2006 Ring of Ice champions finished among the top 10 in attendance last year, and set a franchise record with $26.2 million in total ticket and suite revenue (a 21% increase from 2005). Nonetheless, most fans won’t suffer sticker shock when buying their tickets for the 2007 season. Single-game and season tickets were given only modest price adjustments. Upper deck and sidelines seats were increased just $3 each to $40 and $100, respectively. Mezzanine and Club seats were raised just $9 each, to $80 and $300 respectively. End zone seats actually dropped a buck to $60. Luxury suites, on the other hand, suffered a much different fate. Enjoying the game from the stadium's most posh accommodations will now cost $150,000 a year. That's a whopping $23,000 increase from last year. “We want to fill the seats,” said general manager Jack "Grid" Iron of the team’s decision to impose modest price increases on non-luxury suite tickets. “But we’re also cognizant of the fact that our luxury suites sell at a premium right now due to the team’s success.” If all 158 luxury seats sell as expected, the team will pull in over $23 million before the season even begins. Last edited by Grid Iron : 05-02-2005 at 09:58 AM. |
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05-03-2005, 09:21 AM
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#47 |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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No Doubting ThomasRe-signing Kuhn top priority for Oregon GMFree Agency Stage 1, 2007Portland, OR (ESPN) – After Thomas Kuhn led the Boise Stampede to a division title in 2005 playing for the injured Branden Lin, he had high hopes of getting a big long-term deal in free agency. Surely, someone would want a quarterback who finished the year with a 6-2 record. Unfortunately for him, it didn’t turn out that way. The 2006 free agency period passed him by as other quarterbacks were being snatched up. Kuhn didn’t even get as much as a call to be a backup.  “It was really depressing,” said Kuhn, who spent the off-season managing his father’s hardware store in Memphis when he wasn’t training. “But I just tried to stay positive and hope that someone would give me a chance.”Why didn’t any teams show an earlier interest in Kuhn? The answer was simple: he doesn’t rate highly with scouts. He lacks ideal size, standing just 6’1”. He doesn’t scramble well. He threw four touchdowns against 12 interceptions in just 10 career games. “Despite what the scouts said, I always knew in my heart that I could succeed in the CFL,” he said. “I just tried to stay in shape in case I got a call.” Kuhn eventually did get a call, one that would change not just his fortunes, but the fortunes of an entire franchise. Seven weeks into the CFL season, Oregon’s starting quarterback Maurice Brown went down with a broken clavicle that would sideline him at least eight weeks. After Ice rookie Grant Grady struggled in two starts after Brown’s injury, general manager Jack “Grid” Iron called Kuhn. “I decided to go against the book and pick a guy because he knows how to win, not because he has all the right ‘tools’ that we’re supposed to look for,” said Iron. After passing a physical, Kuhn signed a one-year $1 million contract that included a $100,000 bonus, and started the following week. The rest, as they say, is history. After losing 31-24 in Week 11, Kuhn led the Ice to a 5-1 record over the final six games to clinch the division title with a home victory over the Seattle Thunderbirds in Week 17. In the regular season, Kuhn completed 158 of 258 for 2,132 yards, 20 touchdowns and just nine interceptions. He finished the year with a 98.8 quarterback rating—fourth best in the league.  In the wild card playoff against Boise, he was 21 of 43 for 274 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. If not for a total defensive breakdown in the closing minutes, he would have notched another win.Now, armed with an 11-5 lifetime record and two division titles under his belt, Thomas Kuhn again prepares for free agency. What, exactly, is in store for him this time? Kuhn still doesn’t rate very well, and he is 34 years old. “I know there is at least one team that wants him,” said Grid Iron of Oregon’s intention negotiate a long-term deal with Kuhn. “All he does is win, and that’s what this team is all about.” Whether Kuhn’s accomplishments over the past two seasons will entice other CFL teams to enter the bidding is something that won’t be known for a few more weeks. “I don’t know what’s going to happen,” said Kuhn. “I don’t take anything for granted anymore.” |
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05-03-2005, 10:20 AM
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#48 | |
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lolzcat
Join Date: May 2001
Location: williamsburg, va
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BTW - I still think this is awesome...
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Text Sports Network - Bringing you statistical information for several FOF MP leagues in one convenient site Quote:
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05-03-2005, 11:32 AM
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#49 |
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General Manager
Join Date: Nov 2002
Location: The Town of Flower Mound
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Javier is about to PUNISH Kuhn...
__________________
UTEP Miners!!! I solemnly swear to never cheer for TO |
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05-05-2005, 11:19 AM
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#50 | |
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Ice Cream Man
Join Date: Feb 2002
Location: Bay Area
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Quote:
Thanks for reading! |
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