Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Thursday 4.9.12
Fins on 3 Game Winning Streak, Get Day Off
Dolphin players were given their day off after going on a three game winning streak. They all decided to go out as a team to boost morale. The club/lounge they went to that night was given a heads up that Miami Dolphin players would be in attendance and surprised them with a special treat. Press play on the video below for a sneak peak of last nights function:
Brandon Marshall was feeling so good about their 3 game winning streak and their day off he convinced Karlos Dansby, new acquired Adrian Wilson, and Michael Turner to chip in and buy out the bar for the evening. It made sense since they are the highest paid players on the team. It was a nice gesture and the team appreciated every minute of it.
Coach Shula wasn't too impressed and was caught with this expression on his face:
Article by: Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined UFL Today back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFN (United Football Network).
Monday, April 9, 2012
Posted on April 9, 2012 at 09:53 AM.
Thursday 4.8.12
UFL Free Agency: Miami Dolphins break the bank for Michael Turner
Free agency opened once again and unlike previous periods in the past it didn't take long for the highest recognized player to come off the board. That player is Michael Turner; the top running back option available this year.
There have been several reports speculating that Turner was visiting Miami on Friday to begin working out a deal, but nothing was confirmed. However, it is widely believed that Turner and his representatives have worked out a lucrative, mutiyear contract with the Dolphins.
The deal is expected to make him one of the highest-paid running backs in the UFL. Whatever the final number may be, expect Turner's free agent price to make a splash around the league.
It is widely believed that the Dolphins were the only team considering the aging running backs services.
Turner will be a major upgrade to Miami's running back unit. Incumbent starters Montrell Gibbons and Daniel Thomas combined for a little over 1,000 yards last season and could never go on a consistent streak of 100 yard games. With a significant upgrade to the offensive line this year it was clear that the Dolphins needed a leader in the backfield.
Dolphins coach Don Shula wanted Michael Turner the most.
“I coached great players like Larry Csonka and Mercury Morris,” Coach Shula said. “When your group of guys are having trouble gaining positive yardage against the best defensive teams in the league you are not going to survive. Mike will be doing the bruising from now on”.
Article by: Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined UFL Today back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFN (United Football Network).
Posted on April 9, 2012 at 09:51 AM.
Thursday 4.7.12
L. Maddox, V. Davis, & V. Shiancoe ignite Dolphins to 3rd Win
MIAMI (AP) -- LaCraig Maddox was angry, his ego bruised by not getting an opportunity to start this season.
The Miami rookie wide receiver took out his frustration on the Indianapolis Colts, returning a kickoff for a touchdown to start the third quarter, and the Dolphins' defense held on for a 34-24 victory in week 4.
"Not being in that starting lineup hurt me deep down inside," Maddox said. "I just wanted to make plays. You don't always have to be a starter to make plays."
Maddox certainly made that point loud and clear.
Benched in favor of rookie Alexander Ambrose, Maddox made all the difference on special teams. He also became the first player to return a kick-off for a touchdown for the Miami Dolphins in 3 seasons.
"To be who I am and to have played as many games as I have as a starter, I had to do things on the other end to keep me confident,"
"Being a pro, you understand things happen. I got my mind right."
Vontae Davis: AFC’s best cornerbacks are in Miami
Which UFL team has the best cornerbacks? You might say it’s the Jets, with Darrelle Revis and Antonio Cromartie. Or the Eagles, with Nnamdi Asomugha and Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie.
But in the admittedly biased view of Miami’s Vontae Davis, the best pair of cornerbacks in football are himself and Sean Smith.
“I’m going to go out on a limb and say we’re the best tandem in the league,” Davis said.
Davis was asked whether he could really put himself and Smith ahead of Revis and Cromartie, and he insisted that he could.
“You name them all and I’m putting it out there,” Davis said.
Dolphins coach Don Shula did not support his player’s brash talk.
“I don't like to hear stuff like this,” Coach Shula said. “I think they need to stay grounded. They haven't won a damn thing in this league. They need to play with confidence and those two guys have confidence. Time will tell at the end of this thing whether or not they are.”
Article by: Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined UFL Today back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFN (United Football Network).
Saturday, April 7, 2012
Thursday 4.5.12
FINALLY! Walters' interception secures Dolphins' first win
MIAMI (AP) -- The Miami Dolphins acted as though they'd never won a game before.
When Torrea Walters turned Big Ben pass attempt into a interception in the 4th quarter, the bench quickly cleared, with players sprinting en masse to mob their teammate.
The stunning play made the Dolphins a winner for the first time this season, ensuring they'll avoid being eliminated from the playoffs in week 3.
"I'm just glad no one is going to be joking about a win less season," Walter said after making his 1st interception of the season. "We got a win to get the monkey off our back."
Luckless all year, the Dolphins needed a big break to improve to 1-2. Everything changed for the Fins in the 2nd half. Much like their performance against the Ravens the week before, the Fins were shut down in the 1st half.
However in the 2nd half, the Dolphins were able to score 20 points to defeat the Steelers 27-24.
Walter cut-off a pass intended for D. Avery finding himself in the clear, Walter sprinted to the ball to get the interception and seal the victory.
"It was like watching one of those plays in slow motion, and it's the Super Bowl and the miraculous catch and all those things," teammate Adrian Wilson said. "It was up there like that for us. Maybe not for everybody else, but for us it was up there with all those great catches -- Dwight Clark and all those guys."
With the 1972 perfect-season Dolphins cheering them on, the woebegone 2014 Dolphins rallied from a 10-point third-quarter deficit and snapped a 2-game losing streak. The franchise's first victory since last season allowed Miami to avoid matching the worst losing streak in team history.
DON SHULA RETURNS TO COACH DOLPHINS
Don Shula finally earned his first victory since returning as an NFL head coach, 11 months after taking the job.
"I've been looking forward to this day for quite some time," Shula said.
Miami coach Don Shula and six of his '72 players, all members of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, served as honorary captains and took part in the coin toss. The perfect-season Dolphins were in town this weekend for their 35-year reunion.
"I talked to coach Shula, and I told him we would win," Miami defensive end Cameron Wake said. "I'm glad we did. I can't lie to coach Shula."
Article by: Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined UFL Today back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFN (United Football Network).
Friday, March 9, 2012
Thursday 3.6.12
DAN LE BATARD | UFL
DOLPHINS JUST WANTED TO STOP THE BLEEDING
Dolphins needed big win, defeated Jags
Associated Press
JACKSONVILLE - The Miami Dolphins first visit to South Florida could not be coming at a worse time.
Trying to end their road struggles, the Dolphins faced the red-hot Jacksonville Jaguars. This was their 1st meeting of the season but it wasn't the 1st time these two owners have faced off. The Dolphins have been conjuring up memories of how the season started when they were on a 3 game winning streak. A lot has changed since then such as a woeful 4 game losing streak. However, Miami has surprisingly reeled off 3 wins in it's last 4 games. Included in the run was handing their division rival Bills a loss in Buffalo 19-17.
The Dolphins just wanted to stop the bleeding, instead they put a stomping on the Jaguars at home defeating them 25-3 in a game that seemed to get carried away from the kick-off.
Next for the Miami Dolphins (6-5) are the St. Louis Rams (5-6).
Article by: Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined UFL Today back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFN (United Football Network).
Thursday, March 8, 2012
Associated Press
Chargers' "High Voltage" Shock Fins
It's official! The Miami Dolphins are in the middle of a meltdown of epic proportions. After beginning the season 3-0, they have lost 4 consecutive games. The only game they won recently was against the Colts, and that was against the computer. P. Rivers was able to manage the game effortlessly as he threw for only 113 yards, 1 touchdown, and 0 interceptions. The big story was the Chargers running game. The combination of Matthews and Tolbert was responsible for a total of 186 yards rushing. The Chargers are headed in the right direction as they continue to climb up the power rankings. The next test for the Chargers is Woogie and the Carolina Panthers.
Saints fall to Cowboys, now 8-1
The league decided not to penalize the only remaining undefeated team last week. Unfortunately for the Saints it didn't take long for the mythical season to come to an end. The Dallas Cowboys put up 28 points in the 2nd quarter to defeat the Saints 59-40. If things couldn't get any worse, rumors are M. Ingram one of the league’s leading rushers is lost for the season. The Cowboys are now 7-2 and lead their division while quietly making a case for being one of the elite teams in the league.
8-1 Jags, owner facing the boot
In case you didn't know the Jacksonville Jaguars have managed to start the season 8-1 and are tied for the best record in the league. Everything is going great so far, right? WRONG! The Jaguars owners is on the border line of being removed from his team due to inactivity. What exactly does that mean? Inactivity is defined as not participating and not playing games. Three games have been decided this season due to a simulation and there has not been 1 sighting of the owner on facebook, OS, or XFN. Every team owners knows that the way to stick around for the long run is remaining active and participating in the league.
Unfortunately the Jags owner didn't get that memo...
QB Sneak Banned!
Actions speak louder than words. After weeks of controversy the league finally made a decision. That decision is to ban the QB sneak effective immediately. The league doesn't usually make haste decisions, especially when changing policy but this isn't a policy type of change. This is a confirmation that there is a problem with the game play in regards to the QB sneak. After testing the QB sneak consistently in a 60 minute period, the success rate was a staggering 100% when the defense was set-up in-compliance with league rules. The Qb sneak automatically ensures at a minimum .5 yards and as much as 4 yards per carry. There were times when there were no gains but only when the LB'ers were moved manually to the A & B gap and that didn't guarantee a stop. With that said the QB sneak is officially banned until further notice. Farewell Sneak!
UFL Radio Live
The personalities from UFL Radio Live are back again this week. The show will kick-off at 11PM EST. UFL Today topics will be discussed in depth along with "League in review" and ”Are you serious?!"
Percy, Percy Me
The Minnesota Vikings are coming off a big victory of the Seattle Seahawks. The Vikings were led by Percy Harving who was able to dominate the game with over 100 Yards receiving and snagging 4 touchdowns. The Minnesota Vikings are 6-2 and in second place behind the Detroit Lions. There is no doubt in my mind that they continue winning, especially if Percy continues playing lights out.
Bills heat up, lead division
The Bills owner (MK2004) spoke for the 1st time this season and acknowledged that early in the season was tough to swallow. After an abysmal start they are finally picking up the pieces and are now leading the division after blowing out the New England Patriots 51-17. They are now riding high and expected to take the division as the road is clear to make their 1st playoff appearance. Unless they catch the "meltdown" bug from the Dolphins.
Article by: Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined UFL Today back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFN (United Football Network)
Friday, February 24, 2012
Associated Press
Saints can't run from suspension
Rumors around the league are that the New Orleans Saints will be suspended. The announcement is scheduled to be made live by the Commissioner on UFL Radio this Saturday night at 11PM EST. It is anticipated to be the highest rated show this season. There has been no confirmation from the league or the Saints on what that suspension might be but if it interfers with the "undefeated" season you can best believe that there will be a lot of talk of "what if".
49ers shake-up power rankings
It seems that the league has a new rising star in head coach Brandon King. He has easily made his way to the top of the standings and is currently sitting in the #2 spot in the power rankings. However the 49ers coach has not been quiet about his peers, in particular the Saints owner. He has been one of the most vocal regarding the latest controversy that surrounds the Saints organization for putting up 80 points against the Denver Broncos.
Tampa Bay coach talks Eagles, Larry "Hot Seat" David rumors
Never a dull moment in the UFL but what had most people talking this week was when the coach of the Tampa Bay Bucs suggested that he might be interested in the Eagles job sometime in the near future. What caused the coach to have these thoughts is not certain but what is clear is that the successful coach wants to find a permanent home in Philadelphia. So it seems that the ball is in Coach Davids court, all he has to do is win. We all know that is easier said then done, especially when someone else is breathing down your back.
Raiders lose 2 of their last 3
It was all good just a week ago is an understatement. The Oakland Raiders were the hottest team in the league sitting at the top of the standings and #1 in the power rankings but have quickly lost 2 of their last 3 games and now will face a hot Chiefs team that smell blood. They were quietly winning and now are quietly losing... The league would like to get a hold of the Raiders owner and get them on the radio show very soon. Will the real Oakland Raiders owner please stand up!
Bengals gain confidence
Wow! Where did these guys come from? Currently on a 4 game winning streak with the Cowboys on deck. They can go into the bye week on a 5 game winning streak tied for 1st place in their division. The Cowboys better come prepared because this team has gained confidence and it's going to take a solid game plan to bring these guys down. Can you say watch your back Ravens?
Radio heats up
Tune into the next live radio broadcast this Saturday night at 11PM EST. The New Orleans Saints suspension will be announced live on the air. Don't miss this weeks segment of "Are you serious?!" and "League in Review".
Article by: Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined UFL Today back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFN (United Football Network).
Friday, February 10, 2012
Posted on February 10, 2012 at 09:07 PM.
Thursday 2.11.12
DAN LE BATARD | UFL
Miami fan take: 3 final thoughts on Browns vs. Dolphins game
Associated Press
Cleveland, OH- A win is a win, right? Yes and no. After beating the Cleveland Browns 31-24 the 2nd season Miami Dolphins are currently undefeated and tied in the NFL standing with teams such as Oakland Raiders, Seattle Seahawks, and New Orleans Saints. I find it hard to believe that even the most diehard Miami fan thinks the Fins are anywhere near as good as the teams listed above three weeks into this season. Beating teams located at the bottom of NFL power rankings is a step in the right direction for the Fins, however, one which indicates Miami is moving away from five-win seasons.
3 final thoughts on Browns vs. Dolphins game #1: Gibbons
Miami running back Dontrell Gibbons, is getting equal playing time to starter Daniel Thomas, had a fine afternoon for himself against the Browns. Gibbons averaged 4.8 yards per carry , and he also had two touchdowns, including one extremely clutch run on a fourth and four play during Miami's game winning touchdown drive in the final minutes of the contest. Gibbons, as many running backs do, ran stronger as the game went on, getting the feel of a regular season football contest and finding his legs during the second half.
Daniel Thomas should get more attempts as the season goes on. Ideally, Gibbons would get at least a few touches in the first half of that game in order to find his rhythm before the halftime break.
3 final thoughts on Browns vs. Dolphins game #2: He's back
Don't look now, but linebacker Karlos Dansby is back to his old tricks. Finally healthier for the first time in years, Dansby was once again miami's leader in total tackles on Sunday with 6.
Dansby has always been a tackling machine, but it's impressive how he has seamlessly made his way back into a revamped Miami defense. The hope during the summer was that the Fins would essentially be getting a free agent linebacker with Dansby's return. He's more than earned his money thus far, and will hopefully be signing a new contract with the team sooner than later.
3 final thoughts on Browns vs. Dolphins game #3: Important win
The win against the Cardinals squad in Week 2 impressed me little if at all. Granted, the Dolphins aren't playing what one could call "stellar football" thus far, but the victory over Cleveland is significant for this Dolphins roster. Second year quarterback R. Kaiser connected with his offensive weapons during the 2:40 game winning drive in the fourth quarter.
Building a "winning attitude" is important for any franchise. The Tom Brady's, Big Ben's and Eli Manning's of the NFL didn't learn how to win late in games overnight. Victories such as yesterday's against the Browns breed confidence, a confidence which, in turn, results in more wins later on in the season. In under four minutes of a single game, Miami's offense produced a late game winning drive AND the team's defense prevented Cleveland from gaining the necessary yards needed for a potential game winning drive attempt. It certainly wasn't pretty, but winners come out on top when it matters most. That's what the Dolphins did against the Browns, and it's why the team is 3-0.
Article by:
Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined The Herald back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFESPN (United Football Entertainment and Sports Network).
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Thursday 2.2.12
DAN LE BATARD | UFL
FINS' GO OFF AS DEFENSE RIPS
CARDINALS FOR 5 INTs IN MIAMI WIN
Associated Press
GLENDALE, Ariz. -- The defense was catching pass after pass in a flashback to when this group ranked in the top 5 in defense.
"When you have one of those days when everything's clicking and you feel like you can't be stopped, it brings back a lot of memories of those great years," Karlos Dansby said.
Miami's Montrel Gibbons gained 97 yards on 15 carries and scored another two touchdowns to equal his incredible week 1 performance. The Dolphins (2-0) won their second straight road game.
"We still had a chance to dig ourselves out of that hole and still make some plays," Arizona wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald said.
Larry Fitgerald had eight receptions for 157 yards, and two touchdowns. The first was an incredible catch in the middle of the field in front of the safety. The second was breaking away from the press at the line of scrimmage.
This performance comes at a great time for a Miami team that may finally be escaping its sorry history after a 28-21 victory over Arizona that has the Dolphins 2-0 for the first time in this franchise.
The Fins head into the Bye Week with a victory and have extra time to prepare for the Cleveland Browns in week 4.
Article by:
Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined The Herald back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFESPN (United Football Entertainment and Sports Network).
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Thursday 1.31.12
DAN LE BATARD | UFL
WEEK 1 ROUND-UP: ROOKIE RUNS ALL OVER JETS IN OPENER
Associated Press
New York - The Jets had a hard time moving the ball during crucial moments and had a hard time getting the ball away from rookie sensation Montrel Gibbons. With a dominating defense and a workhorse running back, the Miami Dolphins beat the New York Jets 42-21 to begin the season 1-0. The rookie ran for 164 yards and rushed it in for two scores helping the Dolphins control the ball.
"I just kept hitting it up there" Gibbons said. "You want an opportunity to control the game.
His jersey was soaked in sweat and caked with dirt.
On the other side of the field, Mark Sanchez threw 6 interceptions and was obviously frustrated the entire day.
The Dolphins begin the season 1-0 and go to Arizona to face the Cardinals next week.
Article by:
Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined The Herald back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFESPN (United Football Entertainment and Sports Network).
Friday, January 13, 2012
Thursday 1.13.12
DAN LE BATARD | UFL
PHILLYSFINEST, BUCS DEFEAT HEAVILY FAVORED BEARS IN OVERTIME
CHICAGO — "Thanks for the support. We’re having fun" Phillysfinest told the media after the game.
Philly not only had fun – he pulled off an upset.
C. Barth, kicker connected on an electrifying 54-yard field goal in overtime and the Buccaneers defeated the stunned Chicago Bears at home 23-20 in the NFC wild-card game.
Wild doesn't begin to describe it. The Bears led 20-10 in the 3rd quarter before the Buccaneers scored the last 10 points and held the Bears scoreless in the 4th quarter to end one of the most exciting games in UFL playoff history. P. Parker hauled in a 51 yard pass from J. Freeman, in the 3rd quarter. From that point momentum turned in favor of the Bucs. They believed in each other and were not ready to end their season. Behind J. Freeman’s 214 yards passing, the Bucs are heading to New York for a second-round game against the top-seeded Giants (17-0).
The Giants have walloped the competition and remain undefeated. They have an opportunity to make a historical impact in this young league. Going undefeated in the regular season and winning the Super Bowl is an accomplishment that may never be duplicated.
Time will tell.
KANSAS CITY CHIEFS vs. SAN DIEGO CHARGERS
“There’s no calling each other after the game and inviting each other out to dinner. But the feeling’s mutual: They don’t like us, and we don’t like them. There’s no need to hide it, they know it, and we know it. It’s going to be one of those red and blue games. – Anonymous
This One’s Personal
How does a great sports rivalry begin? It usually takes time for intensity to translate to the players. In this case, enough time has passed… It took just a few years, some big games, plenty of crushing hits, and a lot of trash-talking to transform Chiefs-Chargers into one of the fiercest rivalries in the UFL.
A Three-Round Fight
When the Chargers hosted the Chiefs earlier in the season, it didn’t seem like much of a rivalry at all. Phillip Rivers and the Chargers handled the Chiefs convincingly as P. Rivers threw for over 300 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions.
Final Score: 35-21
The week leading up to the rematch in Kansas City was a frenzy of trash-talking from both sides. The UFL seized on every sound bite they could get, and the players did not disappoint.
“I’ve been trying to get in contact with him but I don’t think we’ll be able to get the game in unless the sun, stars, and the moons align” Sir Arrowhead told the media before the game.
“What? I’ve been right here. Let’s cut the crap and get straight to the facts” Seelk clarified.
The highly anticipated game was finally played but the outcome wasn’t any different. The San Diego Chargers silenced the Chiefs led by P. Rivers who went 7/10, 240 yards passing, 4 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions.
Final Score: 56-28
The 3rd and final game of the season will be in the playoffs for the 1st time in UFL history, but their battle is far from over.
A New Chapter
This season proved that the Chiefs and Chargers could easily be the AFC’s #1 and #2 teams. They both look Super Bowl-worthy, impressively outpacing the rest of the league easily making their division the toughest in the league.
The only problem? Only one of the two teams can go to the AFC Championship.
The stakes are raised this week. More than anything else, what defines the rivalry between the Chiefs and Chargers is pride. They don’t just think they’re good; they know it. And they aren’t about to be intimidated into changing their minds.
Other News:
The rest of the league will be preparing for the off-season. There is currently no action that needs to be taken by any team. Immediately following the playoffs, the league will introduce a league-wide salary cap that will be heavily enforced. Teams that are not in compliance with their salary cap will not be authorized to continue in the league until they are in compliance. Additionally, non-compliant teams may be subject to penalties and fines. Worst case scenario they may lose their 1st round draft pick and/or their team. Staying informed and checking the forums daily for updates is the best way to avoid any discrepancies. If team owners have any questions they are encouraged to contact the Commissioner for guidance.
Article by:
Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined The Herald back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFESPN (United Football Entertainment and Sports Network).
Friday, December 23, 2011
Thursday 12.22.11
DAN LE BATARD | UFL
Success of League Hinges on Owner Participation
For the league, the process is becoming a bit more complex. The league and each of the 32 teams have a responsibility a sense of ownership. Thus, each team plus the league office must be represented with full authority to keep participation at a high level.
Having full authority doesn’t mean having spend an unreasonable amount of time discussing the league. It means having the ability, if so persuaded, to go beyond the minimum required.
And since any resolution by the league may occur only if 24 of the 32 owners vote in favor of the deal, the only way to have “full authority” at the mediation is to have the owners present.
It’s really not a major hardship. The owners are expected to interact and have more than enough options to do so. With the UFL sponsored by Operation Sports, Xtreme-Football, Facebook, and Twitter there is no reason not to network. Besides, this is a fairly important matter that strikes to the heart of their interests. We all want a fun, active, and competitive league. This is our "main" league.
It doesn’t mean that 32 owners need to be directly involved in the negotiations on a constant basis. It means that they need to be available to caucus and vote as needed on any possible league related issues.
If a group of owners less than full ownership is present, they do not have the authority to act without further approval or phone calls or voting.
It’s a serious requirement, and it’s important that the Commissioner explain to the owners the expectations of the league. Although we realize that men who have more pressing matters (real life) don’t like to be told what to do (hell, I don’t have much of any of that and I hate being told what to do), the reality is that the owners need to show proper respect and deference to the Commissioners express wishes. If they fail to do so, things could go very badly for the success and longevity of the league.
If they comply — if all or most of the owners show up and set aside everything else they otherwise would be doing and commit to making this matter a priority and focus on being fair and reasonable — real progress can be made. For now, it’s still unknown who will and who won’t be in attendance. If the owners don’t show up, an improvement to interacting outside of the game will be unlikely. There would be a significant difference to the league if there was at a minimum 50% participation in the forums. We'll find out soon enough if it is realistic or if it's too much to ask from 32 teams owners.
Post your thoughts, how can we improve owner participation in the forums?
Article by:
Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined The Herald back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFESPN (United Football Entertainment and Sports Network).
Want to Join? How to Request a Team in the UFL
First and foremost, thank you for showing interest in our league. The UFL is an online franchise consisted of mature and competitive members that enjoy an occasional game of Madden after a busy day in the “real” world. In the UFL we understand how important your personal time is and we don’t plan to waste it. The foundation of our league revolves around three distinct categories which define our unlimited potential, these are:
Consistency
We have demonstrated a strong ability to stand the test of time. Other leagues have a tendency of disbanding prematurely for one reason or another. This unfortunate cycle leaves members discouraged and “in the hunt” for a reputable franchise worth joining.
Tradition
“Unforgettable” is a classic song recorded by Nat King Cole in 1951. Hip-Hop artist Nas sampled the classic song for his second and final single “Can’t Forget About You” in 2006. These classic hits are perfect examples of how the league handles achievements and accomplishments. What you achieve during a season and/or career will not be forgotten. All those hours spent in the lab will not be in vein. Records will be broken, Awards will be won, and it will be written in league history. The goal is if “real” life forces you to miss a couple of days, weeks, or even months you can catch-up on our recorded rich history when you return.
Respect
Last but not least, our third motto is probably our most important. The success of this league depends not only on the Commissioner but on our members as a collective unit. Each member has a sense of ownership that cannot be denied. Longevity plays a part in earning your stripes but you will be put in a position to succeed. With each team owner having an equal voice this truly is a league for us by us.
To join the UFL, please answer the following questions:
1. Do you usually initiate contact with your opponent or will you wait to be contacted?
2. How do you normally handle a loss in Madden?
3. Do you believe staying active in forum/message board discussions is important?
Once again thank you for your interest.
Commissioner
United Football League
Operations Sports
XFN
League Rules
http://www.operationsports.com/forum...gue-rules.html
Monday, September 26, 2011
Tuesday 9.26.11
DAN LE BATARD | UFL
What is the United Football League?
The United Football League (UFL) is a XBOX360 Madden football league that is beginning in October 2011.
The league primarily consists of players who have at one time or another played for other OS Madden Leagues. While the league has no connection with any of these leagues, and does not intend to have such a relationship in the future, some have speculated that it could become a minor or "developmental" league. Other reports described the league as a "competitor" to the other OS leagues or as a "second-tier pro league." Some press articles had speculated that the UFL's business plan was to be present if the OS leagues and its players' disbanded, giving players who would be locked out an opportunity to play Madden.
In an approach similar to previous football leagues, the UFL mostly adheres to standard football rules with a few differences of note:
1. Coaches "Hot Seat"
a. An owner would have a set of goals to achieve each season based on the previous seasons performance, or expectations of the team due to off season acquisitions. This will determine whether an owner/coach is fired from his current team.
2. Coaches "Decision"
a. Would give the Coach of any team the ability to make a one time opportunity to go for it on 4th down, fake FG, fake Punt, or onside kick when otherwise would not be authorized.
3. Trade Restrictions
a. Limitations during off-season & regular season will prevent unrealistic teams building "super" teams.
b. Final Four - As per Article XXI of the NFL Collective Bargaining Agreement, each of the four clubs that participated in the NFC and AFC Championship games the prior league year shall not be permitted to negotiate any trades.
Above all the goal is to create a fun, competitive, and consistent league filled with a rich history/tradition. Players will have ownership and the flexibility to manage their team. Additionally, the league will adjust every couple of season depending on how owners vote during the scheduled league meetings.
Article by:
Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined The Herald back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for UFESPN (United Football Entertainment and Sports Network).
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Monday 3.22.11
DAN LE BATARD | AROUND THE LEAGUE
OTBA announces Latin Night(s) aka Noche Latina
OLD TIMERS -- As part of the OTBA first fully-integrated Hispanic recognition campaign, the league today announced the schedule of this season's Noche Latina (Latin Night) program, which celebrates the league's Hispanic heritage with special telecasts and distinctive team uniforms.
This year, Noche Latina celebrations kicked off when the Miami Heat battled the Lakers in round 3. Teams are reminded that wearing their Latin Night team uniforms are highly encouraged but not mandatory.
"With Hispanics comprising 5 percent of our league, we have a responsibility to connect with them in meaningful ways," said Mr. Alberto Perez, OTBA Senior Director of Hispanic Marketing. "Noche Latina is an opportunity for us to thank the Hispanic community for their support and showcase how their pride and passion impact our teams and players."
Noche Latina, first launched during the Miami Heat vs. L.A. Lakers game, features uniforms that display the team name as spoken by the Latin population. The Miami Heat, for example, is called "El Heat"; the L.A. Lakers are referred to as "Los Lakers."
Teams may wear their distinctive Latin Night jersey's for round 3 & 4.
Noche Latina events will be supported with television and radio advertising on both English- and Spanish-language media across the country as well as on the league's Spanish-language Web site.
but we don't have any yet...
lol.
Enjoy!
Article by:
Dan Le Batard
Dan Le Batard joined The Herald back in 2010 and is a graduate from the University of Miami. Recognized as one of the top sports columnists today, Dan has covered several of sports' top events and is also a regular correspondent for OTESPN (Old Timers Entertainment and Sports Network).
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