[div align=\\\"center\\\"]READY TO BE GRADED[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]DSFL GAME OF THE WEEK[/div]
Welcome to what I plan to do weekly for each week of the DSFL. Now, I had developed this idea in the middle of last season and tried to backlog my recaps, but there were some items I needed that were only available before the weekly index and TPE updates. So, I at least have about 10 games of warmup to get started properly this season.
Now, I have noticed that other users are also doing similar highlights and recaps and I love that. The DSFL can use more attention, and it actually lightens the load of what I originally planned to do. I no longer have to worry about leaving out the other three games, I can solely focus on the GAME OF THE WEEK. So what we will see is basically a more in-depth look of the game action: checking lineups, play selection, game trends, and other big issues that may have caused monumental changes to the ebbs and flow of the game. Unfortunately, I wanted to see if I could screen shot certain plays, but there are some plays where the camera follows the ball and players are well off the screen.
Before we get into the breakdown, the criteria used for selecting the game of the week is listed below:
For Week 1, our DFSL GAME OF THE WEEK IS:
Myrtle Beach Buccaneers @ 
Portland Pythons
Myrtle Beach, fresh off a disappointing 7-7 finish that placed them in last place in their division, look to restore the glory of recent success and hope last season was an aberration and not the beginning of the end. Myrtle Beach enters the season with a talented group of offensive skill position players - lead by Leeroy Jenkins, Despacito Jr, Nick Ayers, and 3 Jeffrey. Look for the Buccaneers to utilize a multitude of different looks. As first year QB Joestar continues to develop, look for DSFL-lifer Chris Ramos to lead the attack for the time being. Ramos doesn't have the best arm, but his 76 speed makes him a dual threat when dropped back in the offense.
The defense is one of the fastest and strongest in the league, led by Dookmarriot and Tyrone Woods who are the only active send-downs on the roster. Myrtle Beach has only 3 defensive send downs, and the decline in talent is evident as they lack d-line and cornerback depth. Don't expect to see the same defense that were among the best at sacking the quarterback and forcing fumbles last season.
The Portland Pythons, a team trying to re-establish their footing in the upper echelon since expansion, are coming into the season looking to exceed expectations and turn heads. For rookie Sam Howitzer, a quarterback could not ask for a bigger safety blanket. Portland starts the season with two capped receivers and two capped running backs; moreover they have two outstanding rookies at each position as well. Portland can afford to slowly groom Howitzer and not expect him to be a top QB right away.
Unfortunately for Howitzer, Portland's defense might apply that pressure onto him sooner than he wants. Portland only has 4 defensive players above 100 TPE, and several players that haven't applied more than one update, if any update at all. Stud linebacker Omar Wright Jr will have to set the ultimate example of leadership while guiding the crew of unforgettables on the pitch. His LB partner, Myles Smith, could witness profound production the quicker he develops. Portland's defensive motto for this season could likely be something along the lines of: "At Least We Didn't Give up a Touchdown This Time". Whether at home or not, this defensive unit is going to struggle to stop most offense this season. Portland has the offense to shoot it out, but their offense will have to play near perfect week in and week out just to have a chance.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]First Quarter[/div]
Myrtle Beach opens up with the ball. Their first formation is a basic Shotgun 11 formation.(For those that do not know 11 stands for 1 HB, 1 TE --- ergo 3 WR's are on the field).
Ramos - QB / Jeffrey - RB / Mo - TE / Despacito Jr - X / Bodenhammer - Y / Jenkins - Z
As we see, Jenkins is placed in the slot during Shotgun formations, but for anyone 12 or 21 sets, he will slide outside and Bodenhammer will slide off the field. Jenkins has the best hands and most defenses usually place their weakest cover man in the slot, so Myrtle Beach is looking to exploit those matchups, especially given they likely wont have time to take deep shots with their weakened o-line.
Portland comes out in a base nickel, now I'm going to spoil this right here, Portland does not switch out of nickel throughout the entire game, so if I skip a formation identification, Portland is in some variation of Nickel. We'll see if electing to use a weak 5th DB over a weak 3rd LB pays off for them.
Low DE / Zbornak DE / Criminal DT / Centauri DT / Smith LB / Wright Jr LB / Pollinger(S) CB1 / Price CB2 / Engine(S) CB3 / Drake S / Rush S
The spotlight here is Tank Engine in that slot CB slot, even though safeties can traditionally play equally as well as natural corners, Tank comes in against a veteran WR and lacks in speed and intelligence. Expect Portland to keep the defensive calls safe to keep everything underneath and not let Myrtle Beach open up a vertical attack.
On the very first play, Myrtle Beach opens up with a WR Slant out of shotgun against Portland running LB spies. Already worried about Ramos' running ability, the first play goes to who else but Jenkins for 12 yards. On the fourth play, Myrtle Beach breaks out a Spread QB sprint option against a base nickel cover 2 and Jeffrey is able to maneuver his way for 18 yards. Myrtle Beach finds early success opening up Portland's defense versus running more traditional Pro-set and Two-Te looks. They dont score on their first drive but they get 10 plays(4 pass/6 runs), 47 yards, and eat up 4:58 off the clock. A promising opening drive when teams usually are following "the script".
On defense, Myrtle Beach displays their lack of depth as well. Opting to run base Nickel despite deploying 3 linebackers, but when you have two Linebackers with speed rating over 5 points clear on over 90% of your DB's, you have to get creative. The issue for Myrtle Beach though is how can you protect such odd mismatches when you will not apply much pressure from the front four?
Heights DE / Woof DE / Cera DT / Out DT / Woods LB / Zelos LB / Mouseman(LB) CB1 / Dookmarriot (S) CB2 / Kennedy CB3 / Bear S / Mouse - S
Portland comes out in a 21 Pro-Set. With three talented tailbacks, Petrongolo and McZeal will serve as the upbacks and Fukushu will be the fullback. Portland has many options in both the running and passing game. And with everyone of about equal high speed, there won't be much room needed for any player to hit a seam and break daylight.
Howitzer QB / Petronoglo HB / Fukushu(HB) FB / Marksman TE / Snyder - X / Videl-San - Y
The goals for Portland will be to wear out Myrtle Beach and continue to hit the second level with their rushing attack until they can break big. Myrtle Beach is also susceptible in the back and Portland should look to use Myrtle Beach's speed and lack of intelligence against them. Myrtle Beach comes out in a Base Nickel Tampa 2. For those that do not know, I'll explain the differences
Cover 2 - traditional coverage that has the two safeties cover the deep halves, aiding the corners on deep sideline throws. It allows corners to bump-n-run so they can be aggressive and play the run and still have help over the top if there is a pass. In 43, the MLB must make perfect reads to know when to play to run and when to drop back and cover the middle 1/3. In Nickel, the Will(Weak-Side) LB must be flexible as not only will he have to be the main anchor at stopping runs at the second level but must be responsible to pickup any TE routes over the middle or backs that flank out. The Cover requires immense pressure from the front four as the safeties can rarely "show" at the line of scrimmage. If the safeties get caught too far up, then a double move on the outside can lead to a big play. If the safeties are blitzing, it leaves a huge hole in the pass defense that can only be rectified by immediately collapsing the pocket.
Tampa 2 - in Tampa 2, the MLB's primary assignment is to cover the middle third and let the other LB('s) act as primary run stoppers. This usually is effective with fast defenses as the scheme usually requires great recovery speed. Tampa 2 relies even more on the front 4, as the safeties have to stay back. Tampa 2 is designed as the ultimate bend-don't-break defense to where most deep throws are eliminated and short passes are the preferred yield. The issues with Tampa 2 are similar to regular cover 2 as the deep middle(post routes) is often exposed between the two safeties and behind the MLB and seam routes and vertical TE's often can win mismatches against LB's in coverage or smaller safeties in one-on-one coverage. Counter-action, play-action, misdirection can all get the defense to overreact and play out their coverage/gap responsibilities. Fast WR's will always prove to be a thorn if they can consistently beat their man stretch the defense which allows for better running lanes in already soft underbelly.
In Portland's first drive, we see them find success on their second play with a counter action out of a Two Te set against base nickel cover 2, with McZeal scampering for a 10 yard run. On play 4, they try to run WR Slants out of I-formation but the rookie Kennedy makes a great pass break up on Videl-San. However, on the next play Portland comes out in the Shotgun 11 and again run slants with Snyder breaking open for 22 yards. So far the Pythons are taking advantage of the soft coverage on the short routes and their WR's are able to apply pressure on the Buccaneers secondary. Portland continues to chip away at Myrtle Beach with I-Formation and Pro-Set before calling a Pro-Set WR Post play against a soon to be infamous BN NW Blaster call. Videl-San reels in a 26 yard TD catch to cap a 9 play(6 run/3 pass, 80 yard drive that ate up 4:25 to put Portland up [0-7].
In Myrtle Beachs next drive, we see them try Two TE action and QB option out the spread against prevent Nickel defense, but their drive is wrecked by a penalty on the 3rd play. Myrtle Beach tries two variations of RB Under by Zbornak makes a stop for no gain and Low gets a sack. Portland's next drive is ruined by a penalty as well and leads to a 3 and out. The first big defensive play comes on the next drive as Zbornak again makes his presence felt by forcing and recovering a fumble off of Jeffrey.On the next play, Woof sacks Howitzer to set the drive back. Portland tries to run WR Short Out out of I-Formation but Myrtle Beach runs a OffBase Nickel Contain that leads to triple coverage on the primary target(and left a man with space on the other side). The teams trade 3 and outs and Portland runs spy plays that effectively match against the designed runs out of Spread and Shotgun.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Second Quarter[/div]
In Portland's second possession of the 2nd Quarter, we start to see more exquisite looks. They open up with a RB Rub out of Shotgun, get a 9 yard run from Petrongolo out of I-Form Dive Left, then we see I-Form FB Deep Out vs 34 Wide Mike Down --- Portland utilizing their backs as receiving options can keep most defenses stretched and they have yet to give Myrtle Beach an opportunity to sack them on blitzing plays as they hit Videl-San for 6 yards. Two plays later and we see I-Form Deep Out against that NB NW Blaster and Petrongolo sneaks out the backfield for a 9 yard reception. On the next play McZeal breaks a counter play for 10 yards, but on the next play Woods blows up a sweep left(he had 3 tackles on the drive alone). Two plays later on play 9, on 3rd and 4, Myrtle Beach calls a 4 Crash Blitz and Snyder turns a short throw into a 22 yard reception. to set up first and goal. On 2nd down, Heights sniffs out Offtackle Left and on the next play, Cera gets a sack out of NB NW Zone Choke, forcing Portland to a field goal after 13(6 run/6 pass) plays, 6:06, and 56 yards. [0-10]
That is one big contrast between the two teams, Myrtle Beach is willing to send extra guys, especially on short fields, whereas Portland remains conservative in most situations.
On Myrtle Beach's next drive, Portland calls a double on the second play and it leads to a Low sack. Pollinger then destroys another designed QB run out of Spread, forcing Myrtle Beach to a paltry 34 yard punt. Portland comes out runs Pro-Set WR read and finds Videl-San for 24 yards but they call 5 consecutive runs and are held to a 37 yard FG after 7 plays and 2:42. [0-13]
Myrtle Beach comes back to SG WR Slant and again find Jenkins, this time for for 27 yards. Out of TWO TE they run RB Out against NB NW BLASTER and again find the man with the plan, Jenkins, for 10 yards which allows them to get on the board with their own 37 yard FG in only 1:15 and 3 plays. [3-13]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Third Quarter[/div]
Myrtle Beach asserts their presence with a 3 and out and then turn around and march down the field after a 36 yard punt. Portland elected to run prevent, man spies, and LB watch throughout the drive and Myrtle Beach let their two stud RB's take over. Ayers finished with 14 rush yards and 13 receiving yards and Jeffrey finished with 27 rushing yards., including a 5 yard TD run. The biggest plays came from pitch left FB Fly, and pitch right --- so Myrtle Beach is taking the action away from Portland's LB's and forcing them to catch their speedsters on the edges. In 9 plays, Myrtle Beach called 7 runs and drove 59 yards in 4:59. They eat up clock but as long as they finish with TD's they are in good shape. [10-13]
Portland comes back with what I call a Four and Out, a first down on the first play followed by a 3 and out. They find more success flanking their backs with I-Form FB Deep Out against a Nickel OffBase Safety Blitz and find Videl-San for 20 yards but Dookmarriot has a crucial defelction against Snyder on 2nd and 5 that leads to the punt. Myrtle Beach then starts to finally find their rhythm.
On a 12 play drive, Myrtle Beach continues a balanced play selection with 6 runs and 5 passes, but they convert two big third downs. Ramos races for 17 yards on Shotgun Pitch Left on 3rd and 6 and then 3 plays later on 3rd and 10, Jeffrey moves the chains on Shotgun Pitch Right. Portland's inability to play tighter to the line is hurting their defense. On the next play Portland commits a back-breaking 15 yard penalty to add to the snowballing avalanche. Portland are able to hold Myrtle Beach as the Buccaneers "settle" for a field goal on 4th and 1 from the 9 yard line. Even though they come away with the field goal, Myrtle Beach ate up 71 yards in 6:07 and have not seen any resistance once they started flushing plays to the outside. [13-13]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Fourth Quarter[/div]
Portland opens up the 4th quarter with a much needed score. Whereas Myrtle Beach found a groove running, Portland needs to continue to exploit their aerial advantage. In 11 plays, they call 6 runs and 5 passes, but the last 4 plays were passes. They see Spread WR In vs a soft NB Blanket yield a 13 yd catch to Brown, a SG RB Rub vs another soft NB Contain sees Petrongolo again sneak out the backfield for a 10 yard reception, and Pro-Set WR Comebacks vs more conservative NB Man Spies sees Marksman sit in underneath and haul in a 3 yard TD catch. Portland marches 65 yards in only 4:45 to go ahead. [13-20]
Portland seems to have found the juice as they force a 3 and out on Myrtle Beach(who did not run a single Shotgun play), but Woods answers the calls for a big play with a much needed interception on 3rd and 6. He returns the pick 32 yards to instantly set the Buccs up within the redzone. Myrtle Beach comes right back to Shotgun Slot Corner on the first play to help set up Jeffrey for a 2 yard run on the next play to tie the game up with 7:24 to go. [20-20]
Portland, with success in their passing attack, continues to spread the wealth, but they get burned by two colossal drops that forces them to a quick 3 and out which is compounded further with a 39 yard punt. For a team with two human kickers, Portland's special teams hurt them today.
Myrtle Beach, now in position to win, relies on their two workhorses to get the job done, but it was an unsung hero with one of the biggest plays of the game. On the 3rd play, with 3rd and 9, Myrtle Beach runs Two TE Max Protect and Portland Breaks out the Nickel OffBase DoubleTeam, hoping to stifle Jenkins. Joestar is able to make his reads and find Bodenhammer for the 9 yard catch. 3 plays later, they again find themselves sitting at 3rd and 1, Portland lines up in a Cover 2 and Myrtle Beach stays in the less-favorable Two TE set, but with one yard to go this time, this is the better situation to utilize the lineup. Jeffrey again attacks outside with Offtackle right and converts for the first down. For the third time, Myrtle Beach again find themselves in 3rd and 2. Portland has been setting up to stop a deep strike, but they have been gashed by short throws and the running game all night. Myrtle Beach runs I-Form Pitch Right and again, Jeffrey hits the outside for 13 yards. In the 14 play drive, Myrtle Beach called 10 runs, ending the drive with 8 straight runs for 45 yards, capped by Ramos scrambling in for the game winning 3 yard TD with less than a minute left in the contest.
In the last 4 plays, deep in the redzone, Portland calls Prevent - Blanket - Tampa 2 - Prevent against Dive Right - SG Draw - Pro Set Sweep right - Spread QB Sprint Right. Myrtle Beach didnt need Jenkins in the second half, but his presence in the first half likely led to Portland backing off the line. That doesn't excuse Portland for allowing Myrtle Beach to run roughshod on their defense. Portland's two drives that stalled in the second quarter when they went away from the passing attack will have them peeved until they can hit the field again. Myrtle Beach got the win but know they cannot fall behind by double digits and expect to pull off comebacks every week.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"] Standouts:[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Ayers - 20 rush/87 yd/4.4 avg[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Woods - 9 TCK/1 PD/1 INT[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Jeffrey - 18 rush/110 yd/6.1 avg/2 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Cera - 3 TCK/2 TFL/ 1 SCK[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Jenkins - 5 rec/61 yd/12.2 avg[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Dookmarriot/Kennedy - 2 PD's each[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Team - 6 PD's/17 Pancakes
Next Match: VS
[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"] Standouts[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Petrongolo - 18 rush/81 yd/4.5 avg[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Smith- 12 TCK[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Videl-San - 5 rec/ 88 yd/ 17.6 avg/ 1 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]ZBornak - 6 TCK/ 3 TFL/ FF, FR[/div]
[div align=\\\"right\\\"]Low - 3 TCK/ 2 SCK[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Next Match: @
[/div]
WC: 3481
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]DSFL GAME OF THE WEEK[/div]
Welcome to what I plan to do weekly for each week of the DSFL. Now, I had developed this idea in the middle of last season and tried to backlog my recaps, but there were some items I needed that were only available before the weekly index and TPE updates. So, I at least have about 10 games of warmup to get started properly this season.
Now, I have noticed that other users are also doing similar highlights and recaps and I love that. The DSFL can use more attention, and it actually lightens the load of what I originally planned to do. I no longer have to worry about leaving out the other three games, I can solely focus on the GAME OF THE WEEK. So what we will see is basically a more in-depth look of the game action: checking lineups, play selection, game trends, and other big issues that may have caused monumental changes to the ebbs and flow of the game. Unfortunately, I wanted to see if I could screen shot certain plays, but there are some plays where the camera follows the ball and players are well off the screen.
Before we get into the breakdown, the criteria used for selecting the game of the week is listed below:
- 1. Margin of Victory
- 2. Time of Game Winning Score
- 3. Total Points Scored
- 4. Lead Changes
- 5. Combined Win Percentage
- 6. Playoff Implications
- 7. Statistical Standouts
For Week 1, our DFSL GAME OF THE WEEK IS:
Myrtle Beach Buccaneers @ Portland Pythons Myrtle Beach, fresh off a disappointing 7-7 finish that placed them in last place in their division, look to restore the glory of recent success and hope last season was an aberration and not the beginning of the end. Myrtle Beach enters the season with a talented group of offensive skill position players - lead by Leeroy Jenkins, Despacito Jr, Nick Ayers, and 3 Jeffrey. Look for the Buccaneers to utilize a multitude of different looks. As first year QB Joestar continues to develop, look for DSFL-lifer Chris Ramos to lead the attack for the time being. Ramos doesn't have the best arm, but his 76 speed makes him a dual threat when dropped back in the offense.
The defense is one of the fastest and strongest in the league, led by Dookmarriot and Tyrone Woods who are the only active send-downs on the roster. Myrtle Beach has only 3 defensive send downs, and the decline in talent is evident as they lack d-line and cornerback depth. Don't expect to see the same defense that were among the best at sacking the quarterback and forcing fumbles last season.
The Portland Pythons, a team trying to re-establish their footing in the upper echelon since expansion, are coming into the season looking to exceed expectations and turn heads. For rookie Sam Howitzer, a quarterback could not ask for a bigger safety blanket. Portland starts the season with two capped receivers and two capped running backs; moreover they have two outstanding rookies at each position as well. Portland can afford to slowly groom Howitzer and not expect him to be a top QB right away.
Unfortunately for Howitzer, Portland's defense might apply that pressure onto him sooner than he wants. Portland only has 4 defensive players above 100 TPE, and several players that haven't applied more than one update, if any update at all. Stud linebacker Omar Wright Jr will have to set the ultimate example of leadership while guiding the crew of unforgettables on the pitch. His LB partner, Myles Smith, could witness profound production the quicker he develops. Portland's defensive motto for this season could likely be something along the lines of: "At Least We Didn't Give up a Touchdown This Time". Whether at home or not, this defensive unit is going to struggle to stop most offense this season. Portland has the offense to shoot it out, but their offense will have to play near perfect week in and week out just to have a chance.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]First Quarter[/div]
Myrtle Beach opens up with the ball. Their first formation is a basic Shotgun 11 formation.(For those that do not know 11 stands for 1 HB, 1 TE --- ergo 3 WR's are on the field).
Ramos - QB / Jeffrey - RB / Mo - TE / Despacito Jr - X / Bodenhammer - Y / Jenkins - Z
As we see, Jenkins is placed in the slot during Shotgun formations, but for anyone 12 or 21 sets, he will slide outside and Bodenhammer will slide off the field. Jenkins has the best hands and most defenses usually place their weakest cover man in the slot, so Myrtle Beach is looking to exploit those matchups, especially given they likely wont have time to take deep shots with their weakened o-line.
Portland comes out in a base nickel, now I'm going to spoil this right here, Portland does not switch out of nickel throughout the entire game, so if I skip a formation identification, Portland is in some variation of Nickel. We'll see if electing to use a weak 5th DB over a weak 3rd LB pays off for them.
Low DE / Zbornak DE / Criminal DT / Centauri DT / Smith LB / Wright Jr LB / Pollinger(S) CB1 / Price CB2 / Engine(S) CB3 / Drake S / Rush S
The spotlight here is Tank Engine in that slot CB slot, even though safeties can traditionally play equally as well as natural corners, Tank comes in against a veteran WR and lacks in speed and intelligence. Expect Portland to keep the defensive calls safe to keep everything underneath and not let Myrtle Beach open up a vertical attack.
On the very first play, Myrtle Beach opens up with a WR Slant out of shotgun against Portland running LB spies. Already worried about Ramos' running ability, the first play goes to who else but Jenkins for 12 yards. On the fourth play, Myrtle Beach breaks out a Spread QB sprint option against a base nickel cover 2 and Jeffrey is able to maneuver his way for 18 yards. Myrtle Beach finds early success opening up Portland's defense versus running more traditional Pro-set and Two-Te looks. They dont score on their first drive but they get 10 plays(4 pass/6 runs), 47 yards, and eat up 4:58 off the clock. A promising opening drive when teams usually are following "the script".
On defense, Myrtle Beach displays their lack of depth as well. Opting to run base Nickel despite deploying 3 linebackers, but when you have two Linebackers with speed rating over 5 points clear on over 90% of your DB's, you have to get creative. The issue for Myrtle Beach though is how can you protect such odd mismatches when you will not apply much pressure from the front four?
Heights DE / Woof DE / Cera DT / Out DT / Woods LB / Zelos LB / Mouseman(LB) CB1 / Dookmarriot (S) CB2 / Kennedy CB3 / Bear S / Mouse - S
Portland comes out in a 21 Pro-Set. With three talented tailbacks, Petrongolo and McZeal will serve as the upbacks and Fukushu will be the fullback. Portland has many options in both the running and passing game. And with everyone of about equal high speed, there won't be much room needed for any player to hit a seam and break daylight.
Howitzer QB / Petronoglo HB / Fukushu(HB) FB / Marksman TE / Snyder - X / Videl-San - Y
The goals for Portland will be to wear out Myrtle Beach and continue to hit the second level with their rushing attack until they can break big. Myrtle Beach is also susceptible in the back and Portland should look to use Myrtle Beach's speed and lack of intelligence against them. Myrtle Beach comes out in a Base Nickel Tampa 2. For those that do not know, I'll explain the differences
Cover 2 - traditional coverage that has the two safeties cover the deep halves, aiding the corners on deep sideline throws. It allows corners to bump-n-run so they can be aggressive and play the run and still have help over the top if there is a pass. In 43, the MLB must make perfect reads to know when to play to run and when to drop back and cover the middle 1/3. In Nickel, the Will(Weak-Side) LB must be flexible as not only will he have to be the main anchor at stopping runs at the second level but must be responsible to pickup any TE routes over the middle or backs that flank out. The Cover requires immense pressure from the front four as the safeties can rarely "show" at the line of scrimmage. If the safeties get caught too far up, then a double move on the outside can lead to a big play. If the safeties are blitzing, it leaves a huge hole in the pass defense that can only be rectified by immediately collapsing the pocket.
Tampa 2 - in Tampa 2, the MLB's primary assignment is to cover the middle third and let the other LB('s) act as primary run stoppers. This usually is effective with fast defenses as the scheme usually requires great recovery speed. Tampa 2 relies even more on the front 4, as the safeties have to stay back. Tampa 2 is designed as the ultimate bend-don't-break defense to where most deep throws are eliminated and short passes are the preferred yield. The issues with Tampa 2 are similar to regular cover 2 as the deep middle(post routes) is often exposed between the two safeties and behind the MLB and seam routes and vertical TE's often can win mismatches against LB's in coverage or smaller safeties in one-on-one coverage. Counter-action, play-action, misdirection can all get the defense to overreact and play out their coverage/gap responsibilities. Fast WR's will always prove to be a thorn if they can consistently beat their man stretch the defense which allows for better running lanes in already soft underbelly.
In Portland's first drive, we see them find success on their second play with a counter action out of a Two Te set against base nickel cover 2, with McZeal scampering for a 10 yard run. On play 4, they try to run WR Slants out of I-formation but the rookie Kennedy makes a great pass break up on Videl-San. However, on the next play Portland comes out in the Shotgun 11 and again run slants with Snyder breaking open for 22 yards. So far the Pythons are taking advantage of the soft coverage on the short routes and their WR's are able to apply pressure on the Buccaneers secondary. Portland continues to chip away at Myrtle Beach with I-Formation and Pro-Set before calling a Pro-Set WR Post play against a soon to be infamous BN NW Blaster call. Videl-San reels in a 26 yard TD catch to cap a 9 play(6 run/3 pass, 80 yard drive that ate up 4:25 to put Portland up [0-7].
In Myrtle Beachs next drive, we see them try Two TE action and QB option out the spread against prevent Nickel defense, but their drive is wrecked by a penalty on the 3rd play. Myrtle Beach tries two variations of RB Under by Zbornak makes a stop for no gain and Low gets a sack. Portland's next drive is ruined by a penalty as well and leads to a 3 and out. The first big defensive play comes on the next drive as Zbornak again makes his presence felt by forcing and recovering a fumble off of Jeffrey.On the next play, Woof sacks Howitzer to set the drive back. Portland tries to run WR Short Out out of I-Formation but Myrtle Beach runs a OffBase Nickel Contain that leads to triple coverage on the primary target(and left a man with space on the other side). The teams trade 3 and outs and Portland runs spy plays that effectively match against the designed runs out of Spread and Shotgun.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Second Quarter[/div]
In Portland's second possession of the 2nd Quarter, we start to see more exquisite looks. They open up with a RB Rub out of Shotgun, get a 9 yard run from Petrongolo out of I-Form Dive Left, then we see I-Form FB Deep Out vs 34 Wide Mike Down --- Portland utilizing their backs as receiving options can keep most defenses stretched and they have yet to give Myrtle Beach an opportunity to sack them on blitzing plays as they hit Videl-San for 6 yards. Two plays later and we see I-Form Deep Out against that NB NW Blaster and Petrongolo sneaks out the backfield for a 9 yard reception. On the next play McZeal breaks a counter play for 10 yards, but on the next play Woods blows up a sweep left(he had 3 tackles on the drive alone). Two plays later on play 9, on 3rd and 4, Myrtle Beach calls a 4 Crash Blitz and Snyder turns a short throw into a 22 yard reception. to set up first and goal. On 2nd down, Heights sniffs out Offtackle Left and on the next play, Cera gets a sack out of NB NW Zone Choke, forcing Portland to a field goal after 13(6 run/6 pass) plays, 6:06, and 56 yards. [0-10]
That is one big contrast between the two teams, Myrtle Beach is willing to send extra guys, especially on short fields, whereas Portland remains conservative in most situations.
On Myrtle Beach's next drive, Portland calls a double on the second play and it leads to a Low sack. Pollinger then destroys another designed QB run out of Spread, forcing Myrtle Beach to a paltry 34 yard punt. Portland comes out runs Pro-Set WR read and finds Videl-San for 24 yards but they call 5 consecutive runs and are held to a 37 yard FG after 7 plays and 2:42. [0-13]
Myrtle Beach comes back to SG WR Slant and again find Jenkins, this time for for 27 yards. Out of TWO TE they run RB Out against NB NW BLASTER and again find the man with the plan, Jenkins, for 10 yards which allows them to get on the board with their own 37 yard FG in only 1:15 and 3 plays. [3-13]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Third Quarter[/div]
Myrtle Beach asserts their presence with a 3 and out and then turn around and march down the field after a 36 yard punt. Portland elected to run prevent, man spies, and LB watch throughout the drive and Myrtle Beach let their two stud RB's take over. Ayers finished with 14 rush yards and 13 receiving yards and Jeffrey finished with 27 rushing yards., including a 5 yard TD run. The biggest plays came from pitch left FB Fly, and pitch right --- so Myrtle Beach is taking the action away from Portland's LB's and forcing them to catch their speedsters on the edges. In 9 plays, Myrtle Beach called 7 runs and drove 59 yards in 4:59. They eat up clock but as long as they finish with TD's they are in good shape. [10-13]
Portland comes back with what I call a Four and Out, a first down on the first play followed by a 3 and out. They find more success flanking their backs with I-Form FB Deep Out against a Nickel OffBase Safety Blitz and find Videl-San for 20 yards but Dookmarriot has a crucial defelction against Snyder on 2nd and 5 that leads to the punt. Myrtle Beach then starts to finally find their rhythm.
On a 12 play drive, Myrtle Beach continues a balanced play selection with 6 runs and 5 passes, but they convert two big third downs. Ramos races for 17 yards on Shotgun Pitch Left on 3rd and 6 and then 3 plays later on 3rd and 10, Jeffrey moves the chains on Shotgun Pitch Right. Portland's inability to play tighter to the line is hurting their defense. On the next play Portland commits a back-breaking 15 yard penalty to add to the snowballing avalanche. Portland are able to hold Myrtle Beach as the Buccaneers "settle" for a field goal on 4th and 1 from the 9 yard line. Even though they come away with the field goal, Myrtle Beach ate up 71 yards in 6:07 and have not seen any resistance once they started flushing plays to the outside. [13-13]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Fourth Quarter[/div]
Portland opens up the 4th quarter with a much needed score. Whereas Myrtle Beach found a groove running, Portland needs to continue to exploit their aerial advantage. In 11 plays, they call 6 runs and 5 passes, but the last 4 plays were passes. They see Spread WR In vs a soft NB Blanket yield a 13 yd catch to Brown, a SG RB Rub vs another soft NB Contain sees Petrongolo again sneak out the backfield for a 10 yard reception, and Pro-Set WR Comebacks vs more conservative NB Man Spies sees Marksman sit in underneath and haul in a 3 yard TD catch. Portland marches 65 yards in only 4:45 to go ahead. [13-20]
Portland seems to have found the juice as they force a 3 and out on Myrtle Beach(who did not run a single Shotgun play), but Woods answers the calls for a big play with a much needed interception on 3rd and 6. He returns the pick 32 yards to instantly set the Buccs up within the redzone. Myrtle Beach comes right back to Shotgun Slot Corner on the first play to help set up Jeffrey for a 2 yard run on the next play to tie the game up with 7:24 to go. [20-20]
Portland, with success in their passing attack, continues to spread the wealth, but they get burned by two colossal drops that forces them to a quick 3 and out which is compounded further with a 39 yard punt. For a team with two human kickers, Portland's special teams hurt them today.
Myrtle Beach, now in position to win, relies on their two workhorses to get the job done, but it was an unsung hero with one of the biggest plays of the game. On the 3rd play, with 3rd and 9, Myrtle Beach runs Two TE Max Protect and Portland Breaks out the Nickel OffBase DoubleTeam, hoping to stifle Jenkins. Joestar is able to make his reads and find Bodenhammer for the 9 yard catch. 3 plays later, they again find themselves sitting at 3rd and 1, Portland lines up in a Cover 2 and Myrtle Beach stays in the less-favorable Two TE set, but with one yard to go this time, this is the better situation to utilize the lineup. Jeffrey again attacks outside with Offtackle right and converts for the first down. For the third time, Myrtle Beach again find themselves in 3rd and 2. Portland has been setting up to stop a deep strike, but they have been gashed by short throws and the running game all night. Myrtle Beach runs I-Form Pitch Right and again, Jeffrey hits the outside for 13 yards. In the 14 play drive, Myrtle Beach called 10 runs, ending the drive with 8 straight runs for 45 yards, capped by Ramos scrambling in for the game winning 3 yard TD with less than a minute left in the contest.
In the last 4 plays, deep in the redzone, Portland calls Prevent - Blanket - Tampa 2 - Prevent against Dive Right - SG Draw - Pro Set Sweep right - Spread QB Sprint Right. Myrtle Beach didnt need Jenkins in the second half, but his presence in the first half likely led to Portland backing off the line. That doesn't excuse Portland for allowing Myrtle Beach to run roughshod on their defense. Portland's two drives that stalled in the second quarter when they went away from the passing attack will have them peeved until they can hit the field again. Myrtle Beach got the win but know they cannot fall behind by double digits and expect to pull off comebacks every week.
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]
Standouts:[/div][div align=\\\"left\\\"]Ayers - 20 rush/87 yd/4.4 avg[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Woods - 9 TCK/1 PD/1 INT[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Jeffrey - 18 rush/110 yd/6.1 avg/2 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Cera - 3 TCK/2 TFL/ 1 SCK[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Jenkins - 5 rec/61 yd/12.2 avg[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Dookmarriot/Kennedy - 2 PD's each[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Team - 6 PD's/17 Pancakes
Next Match: VS
[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]
Standouts[/div][div align=\\\"left\\\"]Petrongolo - 18 rush/81 yd/4.5 avg[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]Smith- 12 TCK[/div]
[div align=\\\"left\\\"]Videl-San - 5 rec/ 88 yd/ 17.6 avg/ 1 TD[/div] [div align=\\\"right\\\"]ZBornak - 6 TCK/ 3 TFL/ FF, FR[/div]
[div align=\\\"right\\\"]Low - 3 TCK/ 2 SCK[/div]
[div align=\\\"center\\\"]Next Match: @
[/div]WC: 3481
