12-07-2023, 11:03 AM
(This post was last modified: 12-14-2023, 01:42 PM by lemonoppy. Edited 1 time in total.)
For those of you who do not read my media regularly (which I do not blame you), this is my first season at the ISFL level and I still have only been in the league less than 2 months IRL. However, there are some immediate thoughts that come to mind when I think about this hobby/form of entertainment that I participate in. The first of which is, “I cannot believe that I spend daily time on this stuff.” Between checking in on Discord to get your “weekly pay” (aka Discord Payout) or writing media pieces to offset your terrible luck at the Casino, I find myself allocating time each day to the ISFL. I must admit that I am still mystified by how it draws you in and still manages to keep its novelty over time. For instance, why do I feel the need to do more than “the bare minimum”? Why do I watch little dots on a screen? Why am I still upset that I thought HON was going to win their Week 5 matchup and put them as my survivor pick only for them to lose and me miss a chance at winning $100,000,000 (imaginary) ISFL bucks? Maybe I will figure it out why I do it or maybe it will just lose its novelty.
But speaking of dots, the second thought that comes to mind for me is, “I am glad to have Game Days on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.” It makes a nice ebb and flow for my week since I have a D&D group on Tuesdays and there is NFL football on Thursdays (albeit the games mostly are underwhelming). I know there are DSFL games on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but I usually just follow the game via Discord and check the box scores later.
Lastly, the third thought that comes to mind for me is, “I cannot wait until my player becomes really good.” I have played RPG video games growing up where it takes time to grind, earn XP, and level up; to me the ISFL has a similar feel to it. I earn money to pay for upgrades, which in turn improve my player. Honestly, while I am watching my little dot on Game Days waiting for the few contributions he will make, I ask myself, “what am I doing?” Alas, I tell myself, “I am eating up blocks so my teammates can feast.” To be fair, that is how I felt most of high school when I was playing defensive line as well; maybe that is why I can tolerate my player not stuffing the stat sheet.
And speaking of the stat sheet, in addition to the power rankings for this installation, I am going to take a look back at how some ISFL Media “pundits” viewed our defensive rookies leading up to their respective drafts. As such, please check out the great media pieces posted by @nickyvmlp, @Tmoney6996, and @zaynzk who helped inspire this Week 6 DROY Power Rankings.
S43 Mock Draft posted by nickyvmlp (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=46466)
S44 Mock Drafts posted by Tmoney6996
Round 1 (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=47276)
Round 2 (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=47286)
Round 3 (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=47461)
S45 Mock Draft by zaynzk (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=48336)
As a reminder, if you missed how the DROY Power Ranking score is calculated, see the first installment of this series here (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=48722)
Biggest Riser: FS – The Red Panda – SJS (@Lemorse7): Up 6 Spots
Biggest Faller: 3 Players: Down 2 Spots
LB Positional Season Average: 45.0 pts
DL Positional Season Average: 36.3 pts
DB Positional Season Average: 47.0 pts
Rookie Spotlight:
DT – Carter Goad – BAL (@caleb.grim)
Selected in S44 ISFL Draft – Round 1 / Pick 12 Overall
Last Season Stats for Dallas Birddogs – 56 Tck, 5 TFL, 3 FF, 2 FR, 1 Sck, and a partridge in a pear tree (sorry, got the holiday spirit on my mind)
Week 6 DROY Power Rankings
#1. CB – Paul Dosza – ARI (@.simo): 69.5pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 4 Tck, 1 Int, 1 PD, +Win
When were they drafted: S43 - Round 2 / Pick 28 Overall
Where nickyvmlp had Dosza mocked: Round 2 / Pick 28 to ARI
What nickyvmlp said: “Rigged. This is all rigged, Arizona’s cheating. How’s the undisputed best team in the league gonna get two top 5 players in this draft, one of which being at the end of the second round? This is wrong, and I’m assuming someone’s doing something illegal.”
My reaction: What did nickyvmlp know? It was the correct team with the correct round and pick number. Was this an open secret? How is a player who is consistently making plays and always at the top of the DROY Power Rankings drop to the last pick in the second round?
#2. FS – Scott Junior – NOLA (@JoeSteel): 68.0pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 4 Tck, 1 FF, 1 Sck
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 2 / Pick 15 Overall
Where Bamford13 had Junior mocked: Round 1 / Pick 9 to COL
What Bamford13 said: “For the Yeti this pick is between a receiver and a safety, with Orange Julius off the board this becomes an easy choice for the Colorado. With star safety Cross Eriksen 2-3 years away from retirement, COL drafts their safety of the future to pair with Mary Marie. Scott Junior has been a top earner in the class and as a user Joesteel doesn’t disappoint. Steel is one of the most active rookies and has been active on the forums as well. The second Royal off the board heads to Colorado.”
My reaction: I am “active” enough on Discord to have seen the phrase “Blorgl”. Apparently, with the 9th pick in the 1st round, Colorado selected LB – Pete Moss / User: Blorgl. I know nothing about this user, but I do know that Scott Junior should have gone in the first round of the S44 draft.
#3. DT – Carter Goad – BAL (@caleb.grim): 53.0pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 2 Tck, +Win
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 1 / Pick 12 Overall --- as an Offensive Lineman
Where DL14 had Goad mocked: Round 1 / Pick 10 to ARI
What DL14 said: “Highest TPE available OL and I have faith he’ll keep earning”
My reaction: I did not know that Goad was originally an offensive lineman because he has been tearing it up on defense.
#4. DT – Ronald McDonald – SJS (@okestboomer): 52.0pts [+2 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 3 Tck, 1 Sck
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 2 / Pick 17 Overall
Where 110radio had McDonald mocked: Round 3 / Pick 31 to SJS
What 110radio said: “I think from a positional need, CB or S would have made more sense here. SJS has 3 CB's rostered, 2 of which are IA at 328, and 421 TPE respectively. They also have S34 S Russet Buster, and another IA player from S36. I think some help in the backfield makes more sense here, but the previous pick with Xen going to CB or S might make sense, since they are a much higher earner then is needed at kicker./ Ronald McDonald coming in as an active user to help with the D-Line seems like a possibility as well. Plus okestboomer makes those sweet highlight videos.”
My reaction: 110radio was accurate in saying that safety makes sense for the SabreCats at Round 3 Pick 31 since they did end up drafting S – Matthew Bolt. They just happened to rightfully like McDonald a whole round earlier.
#4. FS – The Red Panda – SJS (@Lemorse7): 52.0pts [+6 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 3 Tck, 1 FF, 1 FR, 1 Int, 1 PD
When were they drafted: S42 - Round 3 / Pick 34 Overall
Where “pundits” had Panda mocked: outside the first round
What “pundits” said: N/A
My reaction: Of the mock drafts that were written for S42, most of them only mocked the first round. Panda was not mentioned as a first round consideration. My reaction is that it was a solid pick if they still have an active user and a contributing player.
#6. LB – Thor Dangerson – YKW (@homercrates): 48.0pts [-1 spot]
Week 6 Stats: 4 Tck
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 1 / Pick 6 Overall
Where zaynzk had Dangerson mocked: Round 1 / Pick 11 to AUS
What zaynzk said: “LB is a big need for Austin, and I see Thor as being a perfect fit for them, I could see him being being a huge user and player for Austin and should help them stay strong for a long time”
My reaction: zaynzk said it right that homercrates is “a huge user and player” and “should help them stay strong for a long time”; that is why Yellowknife jumped the queue and picked him at 6th overall.
#6. LB – Gaius Gleel – BER (@Crodyman): 48.0pts [-2 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 2 Tck
When were they drafted: S43 - Round 1 / Pick 5 Overall
Where nickyvmlp had Gleel mocked: Round 1 / Pick 11 to CHI
What nickyvmlp said: “I think Chicago might have the worst linebacker corps in the league, and for any team besides the one that’s spent the last two years selling every part of their team that isn’t nailed down, that’s almost impressive. Their best player at that position is a sub-500 TPE player, who’s been inactive for almost six months. Another player is IA at around 300, and their other one is wrist deep in regression, big yikes. Now there is hope on the horizon in the form of Aleksandar Kovic, who could honestly be their #1 LB in TPE by Week 1, but that only replaces the one who’ll be eaten by the regression bug. What about the other two IAs? Well, this is a strong linebacker class, and Gaius Gleel could at least surpass Monty Ward by Week 1 as well, and be a bonafide starter right away.”
My reaction: nickyvmlp was right that Gleel would be a bonafide starter although it took some time to get called up. Yet, good things come to those who wait and it seems to be looking up for both Gleel and the Fire Salamanders.
#8. LB – Narl Hecklenburg – BAL (@Exilate): 46.0pts [-2 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 2 Tck, +Win
When were they drafted: S42 - Round 3 / Pick 31 Overall
Where “pundits” had Hecklenburg mocked: outside the first round
What “pundits” said: N/A
My reaction: Of the mock drafts that were written for S42, most of them only mocked the first round. Hecklenburg was not mentioned as a first round consideration. My reaction is that it was a solid pick if they still have an active user and a contributing player.
#9. CB – Bell Peepo – COL (@Ephenssta): 45.5pts [-1 spot]
Week 6 Stats: 1 Tck, 2 PD, +Win
When were they drafted: S43 - Round 2 / Pick 24 Overall --- drafted as Bell Pepper?
Where nickyvmlp had Peepo mocked: Round 2 / Pick 17 to COL
What nickyvmlp said: “Colorado’s cornerbacks are a dire bunch, but it’s certainly not for lack of trying. Cedric Wilkins II, bless his heart, is about to be in his 13th season, and after a 50% regression shotgun blast, he’ll be starting what has to be his final season at like 275 TPE or so, while their other two IAs will be floating around 400-500 TPE. Meanwhile, they have five, count ‘em five(!) developmental corners in the D-League, and only one of them (Synystyr Gates) or maybe two (Saveour Piethons) could be worth a call-up. So Ephenssta just decided to do it themselves, and make a decent corner for them. They’ll need all the help they can get there.”
My reaction: nickyvmlp was spot on with the needs for Colorado; they did desire a cornerback. Also, the Yeti ended up grabbing Peepo with their 2nd round too. Another correct prediction for nickyvmlp.
#10. LB – Perry Passiveman – NYS (@Cody): 44pts [+2 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 6 Tck, 1 Int, 1 PD
When were they drafted: S45 - Round 1 / Pick 11 Overall
Where zaynzk had Passiveman mocked: Round 1 / Pick 9 to SAR
What zaynzk said: “Sarasota has some desire to get a bit more talent on the defensive side of the ball and with the former GM of the Philadelphia Liberty on the board, it would be hard to see him slide too much further, with connections to several users on the Sailfish cody should fit in well with the sailfish locker room”
My reaction: zaynzk predicted that SAR would take a LB at Pick 9 overall which they did; it was just a different LB in Ali Star. No worries, Passiveman would land in an excellent spot at NYS two picks later to immediately replace long-time Silverback LB Donte Darius.
#11. CB – Trent Thigpen – AUS (@GrimmCrackers): 43.5pts [-2 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 4 Tck, +Win
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 1 / Pick 4 Overall --- as a Defensive Tackle
Where 110radio had Thigpen mocked: Round 1 / Pick 6 to YKW
What 110radio said: “YKW needs some help on the D-Line. They have two DTs and one DE currently rostered. However, their sole DE, Daron Arnold just announced retirement this season, DT Rhinoback has been IA since November of last year and Gago is an S39 user. While Gago definitely still has plenty of gas left in the tank, YKW has no defensive line call-ups currently rostered. This pick assumes no other player is taken and makes a position swap, but YKW already has callups rostered for QB, RB, WR, TE, LB and S.
From a user perspective Grimm Crackers is a good pick, active in the locker room in TIJ and discord. High earning and involved. Would be a good fit.
I could also see YKW going with Zenzeroni Xystarch II here possibly. I don't know the trend for how a high a kicker generally gets picked but user lock180 is doing a great job so far, and YKW certainly has a positional need with their K/P Double Doink from S33 taking a 40% regression hit this season.”
My reaction: 110radio was accurate about the Wraiths needs on defense and that GrimmCrackers is an excellent user. Maybe that is why he was not around for YKW to pick him at 6th overall because he went two picks earlier to AUS.
#12. LB – Juran Riley – CTC (@Huskies311): 39.0pts [-1 spot]
Week 6 Stats: 5 Tck
When were they drafted: S45 - Round 1 / Pick 13 Overall
Where zaynzk had Riley mocked: Round 1 / Pick 14 to HON (hedged with Pick 13 to CTC)
What zaynzk said: “The Hahalua are also looking to help reboost their defense inorder to keep a window open, and a long term user in Huskies might be an attractive option. Once upon a time Huskies was the GM of the Baltimore Hawks and the Hahalua are hoping he can hit those heights again with this player”
My reaction: zaynzk’s hedge about 13oa/14oa worked out as Riley did land with CTC. Solid user and good pick up for Cape Town.
#13. DT – Oops All-Pro – AUS (@PugWalrus): 36.0pts [no movement] 13
Week 6 Stats: 2 Tck, +Win
When were they drafted: S45 - Round 1 / Pick 10 Overall
Where zaynzk had All-Pro mocked: Round 1 / Pick 10 to AUS
What zaynzk said: Austin will pick their next GM pugwalrus with their pick. Not much more needed to say but it would be wild if this wasnt the pick as then they would be in the market for a new GM
My reaction: I am still trying to grasp my mind around how users who are/become GMs and have players factor into the draft model. Regardless, GM-created players getting drafted feels a bit like nepotism.
#14. FS – Luke Hunter – YKW (@TubaDeus): 32.0pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 2 Tck
When were they drafted: S45 - Round 2 / Pick 27 Overall
Where zaynzk had Hunter mocked: Round 2+
What zaynzk said: [only mocked round 1 of the S45 draft]
My reaction: S45 was a small class; barely even a third round. However, since TubaDeus is the GM of YKW I assume this was a foregone conclusion.
#15. DT – Emerson Bigguns – YKW (@CaptainDMG): 30.0pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 1 Tck
When were they drafted: S45 - Round 1 / Pick 6 Overall
Where zaynzk had Bigguns mocked: Round 1 / Pick 11 to NYS
What zaynzk said: “With the retirement of Fat Jack, the silverbacks have a pretty obvious hole in the DL, and CaptainDMG would be an excellent user to fill that long term hole in the Big Apple. This should be a great new users to add to the locker room.”
My reaction: I would have been happy to play for any team, especially if they spent a first round pick on me. I am excited to be a part of the rebuild in YKW and look forward to winning an Ultimus with them soon enough.
#16. DE – Lieks Acksalot – CHI (@thevoicelesscreator): 24.0pts [+1 spot]
Week 6 Stats: 1 Tck, +Win
When were they drafted: S43 - Round 3 / Pick 35 Overall
Where nickyvmlp had Acksalot mocked: Round 3+
What nickyvmlp said: [only mocked rounds 1 and 2 of the S43 draft]
My reaction: Since I do not know much about the user and the player is just a rookie, I do not have much to go off of; TBD.
#17. DE – Crazy Tomato – OCO (@Crazytomato): 23.0pts [-1 spot]
Week 6 Stats: +Win
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 4 / Pick 45 Overall
Where Bamford13 had Tomato mocked: Round 2 / Pick 26 to COL
What Bamford13 said: “With their second pick in the second round the Colorado Yeti select DE Crazy Tomato. With DE Nathan Explosion on the brink of retirement and DE Adrian Hutchinson getting up their in age the Yeti could definitely use a young DE. Tomato has been a good earner and the top DE earner. Tomato has been an extremely active user and could be a great addition to the Yeti”
My reaction: Apparently the S44 ISFL Draft went into the 5th round. So in a draft so big, I am sure that the talent pool was deep. Even still, Crazy Tomato is an active user and that is a great pick for the Otters so late in the draft.
#18. CB – Wayne Miller– OCO (@Datboi69): 18.5pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 3 Tck, 1 FR, +Win
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 2 / Pick 19 Overall
Where 110radio had Miller mocked: Round 2 / Pick 20 to YKW
What 110radio said: “With the 6th pick of the 2nd round (pick 20) YKW selects: Cornerback - Wayne Miller - Minnesota Greay Ducks, user Datboi69 YKW currently rosters 3 Active CBs and no call ups on the bench. Kadarius Claypool II and Orga Panda from S41, and Bageshwari Singh from S34. Singh will begin regression next seasona and YKW has no relief from call ups on deck. Taking a high earning CB would get a good fit for YKW as the rookie secures a roster spot and has time to develop and build that TPE bank”
My reaction: This one is a “we will never know”. Miller was not there at Pick 20, but 110radio was correct in foreseeing YKW taking a CB in the draft as the Wraiths picked up CB Pat Uncertain with Pick 30 overall.
But speaking of dots, the second thought that comes to mind for me is, “I am glad to have Game Days on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.” It makes a nice ebb and flow for my week since I have a D&D group on Tuesdays and there is NFL football on Thursdays (albeit the games mostly are underwhelming). I know there are DSFL games on Tuesdays and Thursdays, but I usually just follow the game via Discord and check the box scores later.
Lastly, the third thought that comes to mind for me is, “I cannot wait until my player becomes really good.” I have played RPG video games growing up where it takes time to grind, earn XP, and level up; to me the ISFL has a similar feel to it. I earn money to pay for upgrades, which in turn improve my player. Honestly, while I am watching my little dot on Game Days waiting for the few contributions he will make, I ask myself, “what am I doing?” Alas, I tell myself, “I am eating up blocks so my teammates can feast.” To be fair, that is how I felt most of high school when I was playing defensive line as well; maybe that is why I can tolerate my player not stuffing the stat sheet.
And speaking of the stat sheet, in addition to the power rankings for this installation, I am going to take a look back at how some ISFL Media “pundits” viewed our defensive rookies leading up to their respective drafts. As such, please check out the great media pieces posted by @nickyvmlp, @Tmoney6996, and @zaynzk who helped inspire this Week 6 DROY Power Rankings.
S43 Mock Draft posted by nickyvmlp (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=46466)
S44 Mock Drafts posted by Tmoney6996
Round 1 (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=47276)
Round 2 (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=47286)
Round 3 (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=47461)
S45 Mock Draft by zaynzk (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=48336)
As a reminder, if you missed how the DROY Power Ranking score is calculated, see the first installment of this series here (https://forums.sim-football.com/showthre...?tid=48722)
Biggest Riser: FS – The Red Panda – SJS (@Lemorse7): Up 6 Spots
Biggest Faller: 3 Players: Down 2 Spots
LB Positional Season Average: 45.0 pts
DL Positional Season Average: 36.3 pts
DB Positional Season Average: 47.0 pts
Rookie Spotlight:
DT – Carter Goad – BAL (@caleb.grim)
Selected in S44 ISFL Draft – Round 1 / Pick 12 Overall
Last Season Stats for Dallas Birddogs – 56 Tck, 5 TFL, 3 FF, 2 FR, 1 Sck, and a partridge in a pear tree (sorry, got the holiday spirit on my mind)
Week 6 DROY Power Rankings
#1. CB – Paul Dosza – ARI (@.simo): 69.5pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 4 Tck, 1 Int, 1 PD, +Win
When were they drafted: S43 - Round 2 / Pick 28 Overall
Where nickyvmlp had Dosza mocked: Round 2 / Pick 28 to ARI
What nickyvmlp said: “Rigged. This is all rigged, Arizona’s cheating. How’s the undisputed best team in the league gonna get two top 5 players in this draft, one of which being at the end of the second round? This is wrong, and I’m assuming someone’s doing something illegal.”
My reaction: What did nickyvmlp know? It was the correct team with the correct round and pick number. Was this an open secret? How is a player who is consistently making plays and always at the top of the DROY Power Rankings drop to the last pick in the second round?
#2. FS – Scott Junior – NOLA (@JoeSteel): 68.0pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 4 Tck, 1 FF, 1 Sck
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 2 / Pick 15 Overall
Where Bamford13 had Junior mocked: Round 1 / Pick 9 to COL
What Bamford13 said: “For the Yeti this pick is between a receiver and a safety, with Orange Julius off the board this becomes an easy choice for the Colorado. With star safety Cross Eriksen 2-3 years away from retirement, COL drafts their safety of the future to pair with Mary Marie. Scott Junior has been a top earner in the class and as a user Joesteel doesn’t disappoint. Steel is one of the most active rookies and has been active on the forums as well. The second Royal off the board heads to Colorado.”
My reaction: I am “active” enough on Discord to have seen the phrase “Blorgl”. Apparently, with the 9th pick in the 1st round, Colorado selected LB – Pete Moss / User: Blorgl. I know nothing about this user, but I do know that Scott Junior should have gone in the first round of the S44 draft.
#3. DT – Carter Goad – BAL (@caleb.grim): 53.0pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 2 Tck, +Win
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 1 / Pick 12 Overall --- as an Offensive Lineman
Where DL14 had Goad mocked: Round 1 / Pick 10 to ARI
What DL14 said: “Highest TPE available OL and I have faith he’ll keep earning”
My reaction: I did not know that Goad was originally an offensive lineman because he has been tearing it up on defense.
#4. DT – Ronald McDonald – SJS (@okestboomer): 52.0pts [+2 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 3 Tck, 1 Sck
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 2 / Pick 17 Overall
Where 110radio had McDonald mocked: Round 3 / Pick 31 to SJS
What 110radio said: “I think from a positional need, CB or S would have made more sense here. SJS has 3 CB's rostered, 2 of which are IA at 328, and 421 TPE respectively. They also have S34 S Russet Buster, and another IA player from S36. I think some help in the backfield makes more sense here, but the previous pick with Xen going to CB or S might make sense, since they are a much higher earner then is needed at kicker./ Ronald McDonald coming in as an active user to help with the D-Line seems like a possibility as well. Plus okestboomer makes those sweet highlight videos.”
My reaction: 110radio was accurate in saying that safety makes sense for the SabreCats at Round 3 Pick 31 since they did end up drafting S – Matthew Bolt. They just happened to rightfully like McDonald a whole round earlier.
#4. FS – The Red Panda – SJS (@Lemorse7): 52.0pts [+6 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 3 Tck, 1 FF, 1 FR, 1 Int, 1 PD
When were they drafted: S42 - Round 3 / Pick 34 Overall
Where “pundits” had Panda mocked: outside the first round
What “pundits” said: N/A
My reaction: Of the mock drafts that were written for S42, most of them only mocked the first round. Panda was not mentioned as a first round consideration. My reaction is that it was a solid pick if they still have an active user and a contributing player.
#6. LB – Thor Dangerson – YKW (@homercrates): 48.0pts [-1 spot]
Week 6 Stats: 4 Tck
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 1 / Pick 6 Overall
Where zaynzk had Dangerson mocked: Round 1 / Pick 11 to AUS
What zaynzk said: “LB is a big need for Austin, and I see Thor as being a perfect fit for them, I could see him being being a huge user and player for Austin and should help them stay strong for a long time”
My reaction: zaynzk said it right that homercrates is “a huge user and player” and “should help them stay strong for a long time”; that is why Yellowknife jumped the queue and picked him at 6th overall.
#6. LB – Gaius Gleel – BER (@Crodyman): 48.0pts [-2 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 2 Tck
When were they drafted: S43 - Round 1 / Pick 5 Overall
Where nickyvmlp had Gleel mocked: Round 1 / Pick 11 to CHI
What nickyvmlp said: “I think Chicago might have the worst linebacker corps in the league, and for any team besides the one that’s spent the last two years selling every part of their team that isn’t nailed down, that’s almost impressive. Their best player at that position is a sub-500 TPE player, who’s been inactive for almost six months. Another player is IA at around 300, and their other one is wrist deep in regression, big yikes. Now there is hope on the horizon in the form of Aleksandar Kovic, who could honestly be their #1 LB in TPE by Week 1, but that only replaces the one who’ll be eaten by the regression bug. What about the other two IAs? Well, this is a strong linebacker class, and Gaius Gleel could at least surpass Monty Ward by Week 1 as well, and be a bonafide starter right away.”
My reaction: nickyvmlp was right that Gleel would be a bonafide starter although it took some time to get called up. Yet, good things come to those who wait and it seems to be looking up for both Gleel and the Fire Salamanders.
#8. LB – Narl Hecklenburg – BAL (@Exilate): 46.0pts [-2 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 2 Tck, +Win
When were they drafted: S42 - Round 3 / Pick 31 Overall
Where “pundits” had Hecklenburg mocked: outside the first round
What “pundits” said: N/A
My reaction: Of the mock drafts that were written for S42, most of them only mocked the first round. Hecklenburg was not mentioned as a first round consideration. My reaction is that it was a solid pick if they still have an active user and a contributing player.
#9. CB – Bell Peepo – COL (@Ephenssta): 45.5pts [-1 spot]
Week 6 Stats: 1 Tck, 2 PD, +Win
When were they drafted: S43 - Round 2 / Pick 24 Overall --- drafted as Bell Pepper?
Where nickyvmlp had Peepo mocked: Round 2 / Pick 17 to COL
What nickyvmlp said: “Colorado’s cornerbacks are a dire bunch, but it’s certainly not for lack of trying. Cedric Wilkins II, bless his heart, is about to be in his 13th season, and after a 50% regression shotgun blast, he’ll be starting what has to be his final season at like 275 TPE or so, while their other two IAs will be floating around 400-500 TPE. Meanwhile, they have five, count ‘em five(!) developmental corners in the D-League, and only one of them (Synystyr Gates) or maybe two (Saveour Piethons) could be worth a call-up. So Ephenssta just decided to do it themselves, and make a decent corner for them. They’ll need all the help they can get there.”
My reaction: nickyvmlp was spot on with the needs for Colorado; they did desire a cornerback. Also, the Yeti ended up grabbing Peepo with their 2nd round too. Another correct prediction for nickyvmlp.
#10. LB – Perry Passiveman – NYS (@Cody): 44pts [+2 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 6 Tck, 1 Int, 1 PD
When were they drafted: S45 - Round 1 / Pick 11 Overall
Where zaynzk had Passiveman mocked: Round 1 / Pick 9 to SAR
What zaynzk said: “Sarasota has some desire to get a bit more talent on the defensive side of the ball and with the former GM of the Philadelphia Liberty on the board, it would be hard to see him slide too much further, with connections to several users on the Sailfish cody should fit in well with the sailfish locker room”
My reaction: zaynzk predicted that SAR would take a LB at Pick 9 overall which they did; it was just a different LB in Ali Star. No worries, Passiveman would land in an excellent spot at NYS two picks later to immediately replace long-time Silverback LB Donte Darius.
#11. CB – Trent Thigpen – AUS (@GrimmCrackers): 43.5pts [-2 spots]
Week 6 Stats: 4 Tck, +Win
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 1 / Pick 4 Overall --- as a Defensive Tackle
Where 110radio had Thigpen mocked: Round 1 / Pick 6 to YKW
What 110radio said: “YKW needs some help on the D-Line. They have two DTs and one DE currently rostered. However, their sole DE, Daron Arnold just announced retirement this season, DT Rhinoback has been IA since November of last year and Gago is an S39 user. While Gago definitely still has plenty of gas left in the tank, YKW has no defensive line call-ups currently rostered. This pick assumes no other player is taken and makes a position swap, but YKW already has callups rostered for QB, RB, WR, TE, LB and S.
From a user perspective Grimm Crackers is a good pick, active in the locker room in TIJ and discord. High earning and involved. Would be a good fit.
I could also see YKW going with Zenzeroni Xystarch II here possibly. I don't know the trend for how a high a kicker generally gets picked but user lock180 is doing a great job so far, and YKW certainly has a positional need with their K/P Double Doink from S33 taking a 40% regression hit this season.”
My reaction: 110radio was accurate about the Wraiths needs on defense and that GrimmCrackers is an excellent user. Maybe that is why he was not around for YKW to pick him at 6th overall because he went two picks earlier to AUS.
#12. LB – Juran Riley – CTC (@Huskies311): 39.0pts [-1 spot]
Week 6 Stats: 5 Tck
When were they drafted: S45 - Round 1 / Pick 13 Overall
Where zaynzk had Riley mocked: Round 1 / Pick 14 to HON (hedged with Pick 13 to CTC)
What zaynzk said: “The Hahalua are also looking to help reboost their defense inorder to keep a window open, and a long term user in Huskies might be an attractive option. Once upon a time Huskies was the GM of the Baltimore Hawks and the Hahalua are hoping he can hit those heights again with this player”
My reaction: zaynzk’s hedge about 13oa/14oa worked out as Riley did land with CTC. Solid user and good pick up for Cape Town.
#13. DT – Oops All-Pro – AUS (@PugWalrus): 36.0pts [no movement] 13
Week 6 Stats: 2 Tck, +Win
When were they drafted: S45 - Round 1 / Pick 10 Overall
Where zaynzk had All-Pro mocked: Round 1 / Pick 10 to AUS
What zaynzk said: Austin will pick their next GM pugwalrus with their pick. Not much more needed to say but it would be wild if this wasnt the pick as then they would be in the market for a new GM
My reaction: I am still trying to grasp my mind around how users who are/become GMs and have players factor into the draft model. Regardless, GM-created players getting drafted feels a bit like nepotism.
#14. FS – Luke Hunter – YKW (@TubaDeus): 32.0pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 2 Tck
When were they drafted: S45 - Round 2 / Pick 27 Overall
Where zaynzk had Hunter mocked: Round 2+
What zaynzk said: [only mocked round 1 of the S45 draft]
My reaction: S45 was a small class; barely even a third round. However, since TubaDeus is the GM of YKW I assume this was a foregone conclusion.
#15. DT – Emerson Bigguns – YKW (@CaptainDMG): 30.0pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 1 Tck
When were they drafted: S45 - Round 1 / Pick 6 Overall
Where zaynzk had Bigguns mocked: Round 1 / Pick 11 to NYS
What zaynzk said: “With the retirement of Fat Jack, the silverbacks have a pretty obvious hole in the DL, and CaptainDMG would be an excellent user to fill that long term hole in the Big Apple. This should be a great new users to add to the locker room.”
My reaction: I would have been happy to play for any team, especially if they spent a first round pick on me. I am excited to be a part of the rebuild in YKW and look forward to winning an Ultimus with them soon enough.
#16. DE – Lieks Acksalot – CHI (@thevoicelesscreator): 24.0pts [+1 spot]
Week 6 Stats: 1 Tck, +Win
When were they drafted: S43 - Round 3 / Pick 35 Overall
Where nickyvmlp had Acksalot mocked: Round 3+
What nickyvmlp said: [only mocked rounds 1 and 2 of the S43 draft]
My reaction: Since I do not know much about the user and the player is just a rookie, I do not have much to go off of; TBD.
#17. DE – Crazy Tomato – OCO (@Crazytomato): 23.0pts [-1 spot]
Week 6 Stats: +Win
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 4 / Pick 45 Overall
Where Bamford13 had Tomato mocked: Round 2 / Pick 26 to COL
What Bamford13 said: “With their second pick in the second round the Colorado Yeti select DE Crazy Tomato. With DE Nathan Explosion on the brink of retirement and DE Adrian Hutchinson getting up their in age the Yeti could definitely use a young DE. Tomato has been a good earner and the top DE earner. Tomato has been an extremely active user and could be a great addition to the Yeti”
My reaction: Apparently the S44 ISFL Draft went into the 5th round. So in a draft so big, I am sure that the talent pool was deep. Even still, Crazy Tomato is an active user and that is a great pick for the Otters so late in the draft.
#18. CB – Wayne Miller– OCO (@Datboi69): 18.5pts [no movement]
Week 6 Stats: 3 Tck, 1 FR, +Win
When were they drafted: S44 - Round 2 / Pick 19 Overall
Where 110radio had Miller mocked: Round 2 / Pick 20 to YKW
What 110radio said: “With the 6th pick of the 2nd round (pick 20) YKW selects: Cornerback - Wayne Miller - Minnesota Greay Ducks, user Datboi69 YKW currently rosters 3 Active CBs and no call ups on the bench. Kadarius Claypool II and Orga Panda from S41, and Bageshwari Singh from S34. Singh will begin regression next seasona and YKW has no relief from call ups on deck. Taking a high earning CB would get a good fit for YKW as the rookie secures a roster spot and has time to develop and build that TPE bank”
My reaction: This one is a “we will never know”. Miller was not there at Pick 20, but 110radio was correct in foreseeing YKW taking a CB in the draft as the Wraiths picked up CB Pat Uncertain with Pick 30 overall.