Welcome one and all to another installment of the Portland Python Game Recap Series. Earlier this week we looked at the games versus the Royals and Grey Ducks, and now this week we find ourselves considering the Pythons against the Coyotes. Two of the original DSFL teams with very long, very storied histories. Many a great season by both teams has been derailed by the other in the playoffs, and so there's a bit of history here. This time, both teams come into the game at 1-2, still trying to find their footing and what sort of team they have on their hands. The Portland Pythons have been inconsistent at best, often finding it difficult to locate the end zone or find continued success through the air. For Kansas City, they score a lot of points but they also allow a lot of points as well. The Coyotes host this one, which started off week four in the DSFL. Without further ado, let's get to it.
Portland Pythons
at the Kansas City Coyotes 
Play By Play
Aww yeah, its game time. Kansas City's Juke Thomason got us started by kicking off to Portland's receiver Korbin Brown, who took it out of the end zone 13 yards before being tackled. From there, the Pythons leveraged a balance attack, getting things started with a five yard run by rookie running back Anders Christiansen. After an dropped pass by Brown, the Pythons handed the ball off again to Christiansen, who ran it forward for six yards and the first down. Veteran quarterback Sam Howitzer then found tight end Nick Marksman for 13 yards before the big man was taken down. Christiansen, not to be out done, took it up the middle himself for 13 yards before being tackled by the Coyotes' cornerback Peter Patterson. Rookie running back Darren Pama managed a two yard carry before Howitzer found Marksman for 22 yards. Suddenly the ball was on the Coyotes' 25 yard line, but the defense clamped down. Three straight Howitzer incompletions set up a 42 yard field goal, which kicker Pseudo QB knocked through the uprights. 11 minutes left in the first quarter and its 3-0 for Portland.
Pythons' kicker Blago Kokot kicked off to Patterson, who managed to bring it up to the 10 yard line before being brought down. The ensuing drive would highlight one of the challenges on the Coyotes' day. Quarterback Reginald Covington III completed a two yard pass to receiver Taylor Cooper, but was swiftly brought down by Portland safety Davriel Lavigne. However on the next play, Cooper was called for a holding penalty and the ball was moved back. Penalties would continue to dog the Coyotes all afternoon. Running back Sergio Kitchens was stuff behind the line on the next play by defensive end Bobby Hoffman, and the Coyotes were facing their other nemesis of the day: third and long. Looking at 15 yards for a first down, Covington threw to tight end Rigby Raccoon, but the ball was dropped. On came Thomason to punt, and boy was it a good one. 55 yards, putting Portland back to their own 39.
You know what Portland did with the ball then? Absolutely nothing. First an incompletion, intended for Brown. Then Pama was stopped after only two yards by defensive end Crozier McCoy. Howitzer hit tight end Dave Batista for 7 yards on the next play, but Kansas City linebacker Brach Thomaslacher stopped him just short of the line. Kokot came back out to punt, and it was a booming kick. 51 yards, in fact. Unfortunately, that was enough to sail it into the end zone and the Coyotes took over at their own 20 yard line.
With 8:30 left in the first quarter, the Coyotes decided to put that thigh-powered offense to good use. Kitchens got things started with two carries for a combined 12 yards, before Covington III hit rookie receiver Crayne Whebet for 23 yards before being tackled by cornerback Dan Foster. Now on the Portland side of the field, rookie running back King Tutankhamun carried it for 9 yards before linebacker Matty Martinsson took him down. Kansas City kept the pressure on, as immediately after Convington hit Raccoon for 17 yards. So far the Coyotes had gone 61 yards in four plays. Kitchens ran it again, but was stopped at the line by defensive tackle Angelo Cerilli. Probably disappointed with that previous run, Kitchens took the ball again for six yards. King Tut followed that up with a seven yard rush. With the ball on the six yard line, Covington threw to Whebet, who was stopped on the goal line by Foster. Kansas City, however, would not be denied and Kitchens finished the drive off with a one yard run and touchdown. 3-7, Coyotes.
On the ensuing kick off, Thomason sailed the ball into the end zone and Brown was tackled shortly after. Wait a second, that's not what happened at all! Brown took the ball out of the end zone and down the left side, before cutting towards the middle. He was finally brought down, but not before he returned it for 48 yards, setting up the Pythons at the Kansas City 41 yard line. Pama got things started with a run, but was stuffed at the line by rookie linebacker Gary Goodman, who was all over the field today for the Coyotes. Marksman then hauled in a 19 yard catch, and Pama followed it up with a 6 yard run to bring the ball to the Kansas City 16 yard line. Christiansen carried it for a short gain before being tackled by linebacker Caleb Judge. With time winding down in the first, Howitzer passed to Brown for 7 yards, before Christiansen followed up with a 7 yard rush. Now at the goal line, Howitzer hit Batista in the end zone for a score, and it was 10-7, Pythons.
To start the second quarter, the Pythons kicked off to Kansas City, who started their next drive at the 19 yard line. Covington found Cooper for 4 yards, but on the next play the Pythons' Hoffman stuffed Tutankhamun at the line of scrimmage. On 3rd and six, the Covington III pass to Whebet was incomplete, and the Coyotes were forced to punt. Portland took over with great field position at the Coyotes' 50 yard line, but the Kansas City defense once again came alive to bail the team out. Pama manged a 5 yard run to start things off, but the next Howitzer pass was broken up by Judge. On the subsequent play, Howitzer was sacked by free safety Mac Griddle for a 6 yard loss. Howitzer completed his next pass to Batista for four yards, but safety Tony Yeboah made the tackle well short of the line. On came Kokot, who sailed another ball into the end zone for a touchback.
Kansas City, taking over at their own 20 yard line, put the ball in Kitchens' hands and asked him to run with it. And he did, for three carries and a combined 12 yards. However a costly offensive pass interference call on Cooper put the Coyotes at 2nd and 19 from their own 22 yard line. However, the Pythons must have thought this penalty thing sounded fun, because they answered with a 'too many men on the field' call right after. Convington III made the plays he needed to, and first found Tutankhamun for four yards, then Raccoon for 10 yards, securing the first down. However, the drive ran out of steam and after a few modest gains, with tackles made by Lavigne and linebacker Myles Smith, Kansas City elected to punt at their own 40 yard line.
Howitzer decided that he was tired of being upstaged by the running game, and taking over at the Python 16 yard line, he threw to Brown for 13 yards. On the next play, however, he was sacked by linebacker Thomas Rose for a six yard loss. Howitzer completed his next pass to running back Buster Bawlls for two yards, before the hefty back was tackled by Goodman. Facing 3rd and 14, Howitzer hit Pama for 13 yards, but the rookie back was tackled by Yeboah just short of the first down marker. On came Kokot to punt, who put the ball on the Kansas City 13 yard line.
with roughly 3:46 left in the half, Kansas City was deep in their own territory, but in position to potentially tie the game or take the lead gong into halftime. However, on the second play from scrimmage, Covington III tried to find Cooper seven yards down the field before the ball was intercepted by Myles Smith, who returned the ball 10 yards to the Coyotes' 11 yard line. Pama ran the ball twice for a combined 10 yards, but on his third run was kept out of the end zone by McCoy. However, after a timeout, Christiansen ran it in from a yard out for the score, 17-7 for Portland with 1:46 left in the half.
On the next drive, Kansas City was crippled by a pair of penalties that set up 3rd and 21 from their own 16 yard line, and they could not convert. The Thomason punt was a good one though, and the Pythons elected to run out the click on three straight run plays to end the half.
The Coyotes started with the ball in the second half, and they probably felt that they needed to make a drive if they were going to stay in this game. The good news is that Kansas City can move the ball when they need to, and they put the ball in Covington III's hands to get there. After a good return by receiver Joshua Campbell started the drive at the Coyotes' 32 yard line, Kitchens ran for a very short gain before being hit by Honky-Tonk Haywood. However, on the next play Covington III passed to Campbell for 33 yards. Covington then hit Raccoon for six yards before cornerback Ben Anabender took him down. Tutankhamun tried to run, but was stopped again at the line by Haywood. Kitchens ran it next for seven yards, which set up first and 10 at the Portland 20 yard line. However, Covington hit Whebet for six, then Raccoon for 10, and finally King Tut ran it in for four yards and the Coyotes were back within three, 17-14 for Portland.
Not only was that a scoring drive, but it also chewed up a ton of clock. Taking over at their own 7 yard line with 9:45 to go in the third quarter, Pama got things started with a six yard run. Christiansen followed that up with a four yard gain, and then things stalled. Pama had a short rush, then Brown dropped a Howitzer pass. Bawlls got called for an illegal shift, and suddenly it was 3rd and 12 from their own 15. Howitzer managed to find receiver Cal Cutta for 25 yards however, and then Baista for 9 right after. However, on 2nd and short the run defense for the Coyotes came alive. Pama was hit behind the line by McCoy, and Christiansen was stopped at the line by Thomaslacher. End of drive and on came Kokot to punt, once again into the end zone.
Kansas City couldn't move the ball much, however, with Kitchens being stuffed at the line by defensive end Etrigan Slayer and Cooper getting tackled after only six yards by Anabender. A Thomason punt later and Portland started their drive at the Python 25 yard line. Howitzer wasted no time and passed to Batista for 18 yards. The quarterback tried to go back to Batista but the pass was broken up by Rose. Christiansen came in to bail out the Pythons out with first a rush for five yards, then a follow up rush for six. Pama attempted to run but was hit after only one yard by defensive tackle LeBong Simwell. It was Howitzer's turn to take on the load though, and he connected with Brown for 18 yards. Then self-inflicted wounds started to impact to the Coyotes. Goodman was called for an off sides, and it only took Christiansen two carries of a combined six yards to convert a first down and bring the ball into the red zone. Pama rushed for three yards before Howitzer missed Cutta on a pass. However another Coyotes penalty, this time on Thomaslacher for encroachment, allowed the Pythons to drive for an easy first down off a five yard run by Pama. Pama finished off the drive with a three-yard rush into the end zone, making it 24-14 with only 11 seconds left in the third quarter.
With the game starting to get away from them, the Coyotes needed points and they needed them fast. Once again they trusted Covington III to get them there. Kitchens started off the drive with an eight yard run, and then Covington III followed that up with an eight yard pass to Cooper. Covington tried to rush, but was tackled behind the line by star linebacker Donald McBobby, for a one yard loss. Covington III tried to find Raccoon, but the pass fell incomplete and it was 3rd and 11. But right when the Coyotes needed a big play, they found it. Covington III hit Raccoon for 28 yards, putting the ball on the Portland 27 yard line. Kitchens ran for five yards before being taken down by Smith. Covington III tried to find Campbell, but the pass was broken up by Foster. On third and five, they tried to run the ball but were stopped after only one yard by Martinsson. With the drive stalled, Kansas City opted for a field goal. Thomason kicked it 38 yards through the uprights, and it was 24-17 with 11:30 left in the game.
With the game still very much winnable, provided the defense got some stops, the Coyotes kicked off to Brown, who received the ball at the two yard line. Brown took the ball down the left side, slowing down while his blockers caught up. Weaving through the coverage unit, Brown found a seam and streaked towards the end zone with a pair of Coyotes in hot pursuit. They were unable to catch him though, and Brown scored on a 98 yard kick return, 31-14.
This seemed to take out a bit of wind from the Coyotes' sails on their next drive, as they came out flat. Covington III tried to find Campbell, but the pass was again broken up by Foster. Kitchens was hit by Smith after only gaining a yard, and Whebet dropped the critical third down pass. With the ball on their own 14 yard line, Kansas City was forced to punt. With tremendous field position at the Coyotes' 45 yard line, the Pythons were determined to score and finally put the game away. Christiansen took the ball first for 6 yards before Thomaslacher took him down. Howitzer then found Brown for 9 yards, and Christansen took it again for 13. Next, Howitzer completed his pass to Brown for 17 yards and a touchdown, 38-14 Portland with 7:41 left in the game.
To their credit, the Coyotes did not give up. Starting their next drive on their 33 yard line, Tutankhamun rushed for 10 yards. Kitchens followed that with an eight yard rush. King Tut then ran for three yards before being hit by Martinsson, but it was enough for a first down. After a short run by Kitchens, Covington III hit Cooper for 13 yards, and a Python penalty put the ball on the Portland 14 yard line. Covington III hit Tutankhamun for 14 yards and a touchdown, 38-21 for the Coyotes with just about 3:44 left in the game.
On the following drive, the Pythons were in clock management mode. Pama rushed for 8 yards, but two short gains on strong defensive plays by Goodman meant that the Pythons would go three and out. Kokot came on to punt and, once again, kicked for a touchback. The prevent defense was in place for the Pythons on the following Coyotes drive, and Kansas City feasted on what was available. Tutankhamun started with an eight yard run, and then followed that up on the next play with a six yard run and first down. A Covington III pass fell incomplete, but the veteran quarterback answered with a 10 yard pass to Campbell. From there though, the Coyotes ran out of chances. Smith broke up a pass intended for Whebet, and then Raccoon and Campbell both dropped passes. On 4th and 10, Tutankhamun dropped the Covington III pass, and the Coyotes were forced to turn it over on downs with 47 seconds left in the game. The pythons rushed the ball three times, including a six yard run by Bawlls, and that was the game. 38-21, Portland Pythons.
Observations
Offense
Passing: This was by far the most productive day from a passing perspective for the Pythons so far this season. Howitzer completed 16 passes for 197 yards, two touchdowns and an 114.9 rating. The yards were relatively low, but when the drive needed it, Howitzer was there to make the throw. Korbin Brown was once again the stand-out reciever in the game, catching five balls for 64 yards and a touchdown (more on his special teams play in a moment.) The rookie tight end Batista also contributed with five catches and 39 yards, including his first touchdown catch. The other tight end, Marksman, hauled in three balls for an impressive 54 yards. Special mention to Cal Cutta and his 25 yard catch in the third. The stats weren't gaudy, but they didn't need to be.
Rushing: A couple weeks back against the Royals, I said that Darren Pama had his coming out party. Well this week was Anders Christiansen's coming out part for sure. The rookie back carried it 19 times for 87 yards and a touchdown. Pama still found a way to contribute with 19 carries and 62 yards and a touchdown, but did not have the averages you'd like to see from a back like him. Still, the rushing attack was consistent and managed to pick up a few key runs here and there to keep drives moving, and that's all you can ask from these young rookies. Shout outs to Buster Bawlls who led the way for these two backs, adding a pair of pancakes to the continental breakfast.
Offensive Line: Chuck Roth once again led the team with four pancakes today, but did allow a sack. Marc Hamel was right behind with 3 pancakes as well. Minus the single sack, Howitzer had time to throw and the rushing attack was able to find some holes to exploit, so a good job by the line today.
Overall: This was probably the most complete performance by the Python offense so far this year. Additional receivers are starting to establish themselves, taking the heat off Brown and giving Howitzer some options, which should really open things up in the passing game and on the ground. The emergence of Christiansen as well should help both backs tire out the talented defenses in the league, and if both units can remain consistent then the Pythons should be able to hang in there against offensive powerhouses like the London Royals and Norfolk Seawolves.
Defense
Passing: Coming into this game, Kansas City had one of the most vaunted passing attacks in the DSFL. And coming out of this game, I still think that is mostly true. Trailing much of the day, Covington III was asked to throw the ball 38 times, completing 22 of those passes for 212 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. A mixed day for Covington III and his receivers, but given the score they were asked to do the impossible numerous times and you can't fault them for not always succeeding. Raccoon had himself quite a day, hauling in five catches for 71 yards. Cooper as well brought in five catches for 33, and Whebet and Campbell operated as the deeper threats. Whebet caught 3 for 34, and Campbell 2 for 43. Myles Smith obviously gets credit for his interception, but also tied for the lead on the team with Foster for pass defends with 2. The Coyotes got their yards, but the poor field position and many penalties helped give the Pythons the edge in their 'bend, don't break' style.
Rushing: Difficult to judge the rushing defense today. Realistically the Coyotes only ran for 111 yards, which should be an impressive thing for Portland. However Kansas City was trailing much of the day and couldn't rely on their rushing attack much as they tried to play catch up. Still, holding Kitchens to 63 yards on 16 carries should be celebrated. Tutankhamun was more effective, 48 yards on nine carries, but its difficult to tell if he would have sustained that success if given more chances. Martinsson and Smith led the team in tackles with eight each. McBobby, Hoffman, and Slayer all added in tackles for losses as well. Altogether solid day for this unit.
Overall: Kansas City came into this game as one of the strongest offenses in the league, and they showed flashes of why all day long. Still, the Pythons were in the right places and the right times enough to stall those drives out, and the Coyotes' penalties on the day did not help. The Pythons have now faced two of the top scoring offenses in the league this year, and they looked much improved against Kansas City compared to Norfolk. Still, this unit has a ways to go and will need to continue to improve before the end of the season.
Game Balls
Korbin Brown, WR: 5 Rec, 64 Yds, 1 TD, 4 KR, 173 Yds, 1 TD
Our first game ball here goes to Korbin Brown, and it was an easy choice. Brown was huge on the day as the leading receiver on the team, but deserves special recognition for his 98 yard kick return. Kansas City had pulled within a touchdown, and the game was far from certain when Brown streaked down the side line and scored. This is the first kick return touchdown on the year, and is by far the longest. Brown manages to bring it every week on offense, but when he delivers on special teams it gives the Pythons a huge boost.
Myles Smith, LB: 8 Tck, 2 PD, 1 Int
Honestly, this second game ball was tough. We looked at Christiansen and his performance on the ground. Howitzer, and his day through the air. Also at Roth, and his job anchoring the line that opened holes for Christiansen and kept Howitzer mostly upright on the day. Still, through it all, we have to give it to Smith here. Another one of the highly talented linebackers for the Pythons, Smith changed the game by co-leading the team in tackles, pass defends, and adding an interception to the mix. He made the day long and hard for Kansas City, and you can't ask for anything more.
Looking Ahead:
Week 5: At the Myrtle Beach Buccaneers (2-2)
After three games in a row against division opponents, the Pythons are going to sunny South Carolina to face the Buccaneers. Myrtle Beach opened their season defeating the Coyotes 27-17 at home, before going on the road and getting smacked by the Tijuana Luchadores 22-6. However, Myrtle Beach followed that up by shutting out the London Royals 13-0. This week, they got decimated by Norfolk on the road to the tune of 44-21. Norfolk looks to be a Juggernaut this season, so I'm going to throw that game out for the moment. The shut out against the Royals is the most intriguing game for the Buccaneers, and suggest that this may be a difficult test for the Pythons. Myrtle Beach features the best rushing defense in the entire league, and Pama and Christiansen may have a difficult day on the ground. The offense for Myrtle Beach is middle of the road however, so hopefully the Pythons defense can keep Portland in the game long enough for the offense to score some points. Kokot may be asked to have another game like he did against the Royals and force the Buccaneers to go a long way to find the end zone if Portland wants to win.
Week 6: Hosting the Tijuana Luchadores (2-2)
The Luchadores started the season as one of the hottest teams in the league. They beat the Dallas Birddogs and Myrtle Beach by a combined score of 44-19 before losing to the Coyotes in overtime 41-35. Most recently, they lost on the road to the Minnesota Grey Ducks in a tightly contested 30-25 game. At the moment, Tijuana features a very robust passing attack, leading the lead in yards per game and third in the league in passing yards per game. They are second in the league to Norfolk for points per game as well. Defensively, the story is a bit more mixed for Tijuana, and so we will have to see what they bring to the table.
And that's it everyone! Hope you enjoyed this week's breakdown and recap. I'll be doing a bit of traveling next week, so there may be an abridged version, we'll have to see. As always, thank you for reading and hope you enjoyed it.
Portland Pythons
at the Kansas City Coyotes Play By Play
Aww yeah, its game time. Kansas City's Juke Thomason got us started by kicking off to Portland's receiver Korbin Brown, who took it out of the end zone 13 yards before being tackled. From there, the Pythons leveraged a balance attack, getting things started with a five yard run by rookie running back Anders Christiansen. After an dropped pass by Brown, the Pythons handed the ball off again to Christiansen, who ran it forward for six yards and the first down. Veteran quarterback Sam Howitzer then found tight end Nick Marksman for 13 yards before the big man was taken down. Christiansen, not to be out done, took it up the middle himself for 13 yards before being tackled by the Coyotes' cornerback Peter Patterson. Rookie running back Darren Pama managed a two yard carry before Howitzer found Marksman for 22 yards. Suddenly the ball was on the Coyotes' 25 yard line, but the defense clamped down. Three straight Howitzer incompletions set up a 42 yard field goal, which kicker Pseudo QB knocked through the uprights. 11 minutes left in the first quarter and its 3-0 for Portland.
Pythons' kicker Blago Kokot kicked off to Patterson, who managed to bring it up to the 10 yard line before being brought down. The ensuing drive would highlight one of the challenges on the Coyotes' day. Quarterback Reginald Covington III completed a two yard pass to receiver Taylor Cooper, but was swiftly brought down by Portland safety Davriel Lavigne. However on the next play, Cooper was called for a holding penalty and the ball was moved back. Penalties would continue to dog the Coyotes all afternoon. Running back Sergio Kitchens was stuff behind the line on the next play by defensive end Bobby Hoffman, and the Coyotes were facing their other nemesis of the day: third and long. Looking at 15 yards for a first down, Covington threw to tight end Rigby Raccoon, but the ball was dropped. On came Thomason to punt, and boy was it a good one. 55 yards, putting Portland back to their own 39.
You know what Portland did with the ball then? Absolutely nothing. First an incompletion, intended for Brown. Then Pama was stopped after only two yards by defensive end Crozier McCoy. Howitzer hit tight end Dave Batista for 7 yards on the next play, but Kansas City linebacker Brach Thomaslacher stopped him just short of the line. Kokot came back out to punt, and it was a booming kick. 51 yards, in fact. Unfortunately, that was enough to sail it into the end zone and the Coyotes took over at their own 20 yard line.
With 8:30 left in the first quarter, the Coyotes decided to put that thigh-powered offense to good use. Kitchens got things started with two carries for a combined 12 yards, before Covington III hit rookie receiver Crayne Whebet for 23 yards before being tackled by cornerback Dan Foster. Now on the Portland side of the field, rookie running back King Tutankhamun carried it for 9 yards before linebacker Matty Martinsson took him down. Kansas City kept the pressure on, as immediately after Convington hit Raccoon for 17 yards. So far the Coyotes had gone 61 yards in four plays. Kitchens ran it again, but was stopped at the line by defensive tackle Angelo Cerilli. Probably disappointed with that previous run, Kitchens took the ball again for six yards. King Tut followed that up with a seven yard rush. With the ball on the six yard line, Covington threw to Whebet, who was stopped on the goal line by Foster. Kansas City, however, would not be denied and Kitchens finished the drive off with a one yard run and touchdown. 3-7, Coyotes.
On the ensuing kick off, Thomason sailed the ball into the end zone and Brown was tackled shortly after. Wait a second, that's not what happened at all! Brown took the ball out of the end zone and down the left side, before cutting towards the middle. He was finally brought down, but not before he returned it for 48 yards, setting up the Pythons at the Kansas City 41 yard line. Pama got things started with a run, but was stuffed at the line by rookie linebacker Gary Goodman, who was all over the field today for the Coyotes. Marksman then hauled in a 19 yard catch, and Pama followed it up with a 6 yard run to bring the ball to the Kansas City 16 yard line. Christiansen carried it for a short gain before being tackled by linebacker Caleb Judge. With time winding down in the first, Howitzer passed to Brown for 7 yards, before Christiansen followed up with a 7 yard rush. Now at the goal line, Howitzer hit Batista in the end zone for a score, and it was 10-7, Pythons.
To start the second quarter, the Pythons kicked off to Kansas City, who started their next drive at the 19 yard line. Covington found Cooper for 4 yards, but on the next play the Pythons' Hoffman stuffed Tutankhamun at the line of scrimmage. On 3rd and six, the Covington III pass to Whebet was incomplete, and the Coyotes were forced to punt. Portland took over with great field position at the Coyotes' 50 yard line, but the Kansas City defense once again came alive to bail the team out. Pama manged a 5 yard run to start things off, but the next Howitzer pass was broken up by Judge. On the subsequent play, Howitzer was sacked by free safety Mac Griddle for a 6 yard loss. Howitzer completed his next pass to Batista for four yards, but safety Tony Yeboah made the tackle well short of the line. On came Kokot, who sailed another ball into the end zone for a touchback.
Kansas City, taking over at their own 20 yard line, put the ball in Kitchens' hands and asked him to run with it. And he did, for three carries and a combined 12 yards. However a costly offensive pass interference call on Cooper put the Coyotes at 2nd and 19 from their own 22 yard line. However, the Pythons must have thought this penalty thing sounded fun, because they answered with a 'too many men on the field' call right after. Convington III made the plays he needed to, and first found Tutankhamun for four yards, then Raccoon for 10 yards, securing the first down. However, the drive ran out of steam and after a few modest gains, with tackles made by Lavigne and linebacker Myles Smith, Kansas City elected to punt at their own 40 yard line.
Howitzer decided that he was tired of being upstaged by the running game, and taking over at the Python 16 yard line, he threw to Brown for 13 yards. On the next play, however, he was sacked by linebacker Thomas Rose for a six yard loss. Howitzer completed his next pass to running back Buster Bawlls for two yards, before the hefty back was tackled by Goodman. Facing 3rd and 14, Howitzer hit Pama for 13 yards, but the rookie back was tackled by Yeboah just short of the first down marker. On came Kokot to punt, who put the ball on the Kansas City 13 yard line.
with roughly 3:46 left in the half, Kansas City was deep in their own territory, but in position to potentially tie the game or take the lead gong into halftime. However, on the second play from scrimmage, Covington III tried to find Cooper seven yards down the field before the ball was intercepted by Myles Smith, who returned the ball 10 yards to the Coyotes' 11 yard line. Pama ran the ball twice for a combined 10 yards, but on his third run was kept out of the end zone by McCoy. However, after a timeout, Christiansen ran it in from a yard out for the score, 17-7 for Portland with 1:46 left in the half.
On the next drive, Kansas City was crippled by a pair of penalties that set up 3rd and 21 from their own 16 yard line, and they could not convert. The Thomason punt was a good one though, and the Pythons elected to run out the click on three straight run plays to end the half.
The Coyotes started with the ball in the second half, and they probably felt that they needed to make a drive if they were going to stay in this game. The good news is that Kansas City can move the ball when they need to, and they put the ball in Covington III's hands to get there. After a good return by receiver Joshua Campbell started the drive at the Coyotes' 32 yard line, Kitchens ran for a very short gain before being hit by Honky-Tonk Haywood. However, on the next play Covington III passed to Campbell for 33 yards. Covington then hit Raccoon for six yards before cornerback Ben Anabender took him down. Tutankhamun tried to run, but was stopped again at the line by Haywood. Kitchens ran it next for seven yards, which set up first and 10 at the Portland 20 yard line. However, Covington hit Whebet for six, then Raccoon for 10, and finally King Tut ran it in for four yards and the Coyotes were back within three, 17-14 for Portland.
Not only was that a scoring drive, but it also chewed up a ton of clock. Taking over at their own 7 yard line with 9:45 to go in the third quarter, Pama got things started with a six yard run. Christiansen followed that up with a four yard gain, and then things stalled. Pama had a short rush, then Brown dropped a Howitzer pass. Bawlls got called for an illegal shift, and suddenly it was 3rd and 12 from their own 15. Howitzer managed to find receiver Cal Cutta for 25 yards however, and then Baista for 9 right after. However, on 2nd and short the run defense for the Coyotes came alive. Pama was hit behind the line by McCoy, and Christiansen was stopped at the line by Thomaslacher. End of drive and on came Kokot to punt, once again into the end zone.
Kansas City couldn't move the ball much, however, with Kitchens being stuffed at the line by defensive end Etrigan Slayer and Cooper getting tackled after only six yards by Anabender. A Thomason punt later and Portland started their drive at the Python 25 yard line. Howitzer wasted no time and passed to Batista for 18 yards. The quarterback tried to go back to Batista but the pass was broken up by Rose. Christiansen came in to bail out the Pythons out with first a rush for five yards, then a follow up rush for six. Pama attempted to run but was hit after only one yard by defensive tackle LeBong Simwell. It was Howitzer's turn to take on the load though, and he connected with Brown for 18 yards. Then self-inflicted wounds started to impact to the Coyotes. Goodman was called for an off sides, and it only took Christiansen two carries of a combined six yards to convert a first down and bring the ball into the red zone. Pama rushed for three yards before Howitzer missed Cutta on a pass. However another Coyotes penalty, this time on Thomaslacher for encroachment, allowed the Pythons to drive for an easy first down off a five yard run by Pama. Pama finished off the drive with a three-yard rush into the end zone, making it 24-14 with only 11 seconds left in the third quarter.
With the game starting to get away from them, the Coyotes needed points and they needed them fast. Once again they trusted Covington III to get them there. Kitchens started off the drive with an eight yard run, and then Covington III followed that up with an eight yard pass to Cooper. Covington tried to rush, but was tackled behind the line by star linebacker Donald McBobby, for a one yard loss. Covington III tried to find Raccoon, but the pass fell incomplete and it was 3rd and 11. But right when the Coyotes needed a big play, they found it. Covington III hit Raccoon for 28 yards, putting the ball on the Portland 27 yard line. Kitchens ran for five yards before being taken down by Smith. Covington III tried to find Campbell, but the pass was broken up by Foster. On third and five, they tried to run the ball but were stopped after only one yard by Martinsson. With the drive stalled, Kansas City opted for a field goal. Thomason kicked it 38 yards through the uprights, and it was 24-17 with 11:30 left in the game.
With the game still very much winnable, provided the defense got some stops, the Coyotes kicked off to Brown, who received the ball at the two yard line. Brown took the ball down the left side, slowing down while his blockers caught up. Weaving through the coverage unit, Brown found a seam and streaked towards the end zone with a pair of Coyotes in hot pursuit. They were unable to catch him though, and Brown scored on a 98 yard kick return, 31-14.
This seemed to take out a bit of wind from the Coyotes' sails on their next drive, as they came out flat. Covington III tried to find Campbell, but the pass was again broken up by Foster. Kitchens was hit by Smith after only gaining a yard, and Whebet dropped the critical third down pass. With the ball on their own 14 yard line, Kansas City was forced to punt. With tremendous field position at the Coyotes' 45 yard line, the Pythons were determined to score and finally put the game away. Christiansen took the ball first for 6 yards before Thomaslacher took him down. Howitzer then found Brown for 9 yards, and Christansen took it again for 13. Next, Howitzer completed his pass to Brown for 17 yards and a touchdown, 38-14 Portland with 7:41 left in the game.
To their credit, the Coyotes did not give up. Starting their next drive on their 33 yard line, Tutankhamun rushed for 10 yards. Kitchens followed that with an eight yard rush. King Tut then ran for three yards before being hit by Martinsson, but it was enough for a first down. After a short run by Kitchens, Covington III hit Cooper for 13 yards, and a Python penalty put the ball on the Portland 14 yard line. Covington III hit Tutankhamun for 14 yards and a touchdown, 38-21 for the Coyotes with just about 3:44 left in the game.
On the following drive, the Pythons were in clock management mode. Pama rushed for 8 yards, but two short gains on strong defensive plays by Goodman meant that the Pythons would go three and out. Kokot came on to punt and, once again, kicked for a touchback. The prevent defense was in place for the Pythons on the following Coyotes drive, and Kansas City feasted on what was available. Tutankhamun started with an eight yard run, and then followed that up on the next play with a six yard run and first down. A Covington III pass fell incomplete, but the veteran quarterback answered with a 10 yard pass to Campbell. From there though, the Coyotes ran out of chances. Smith broke up a pass intended for Whebet, and then Raccoon and Campbell both dropped passes. On 4th and 10, Tutankhamun dropped the Covington III pass, and the Coyotes were forced to turn it over on downs with 47 seconds left in the game. The pythons rushed the ball three times, including a six yard run by Bawlls, and that was the game. 38-21, Portland Pythons.
Observations
Offense
Passing: This was by far the most productive day from a passing perspective for the Pythons so far this season. Howitzer completed 16 passes for 197 yards, two touchdowns and an 114.9 rating. The yards were relatively low, but when the drive needed it, Howitzer was there to make the throw. Korbin Brown was once again the stand-out reciever in the game, catching five balls for 64 yards and a touchdown (more on his special teams play in a moment.) The rookie tight end Batista also contributed with five catches and 39 yards, including his first touchdown catch. The other tight end, Marksman, hauled in three balls for an impressive 54 yards. Special mention to Cal Cutta and his 25 yard catch in the third. The stats weren't gaudy, but they didn't need to be.
Rushing: A couple weeks back against the Royals, I said that Darren Pama had his coming out party. Well this week was Anders Christiansen's coming out part for sure. The rookie back carried it 19 times for 87 yards and a touchdown. Pama still found a way to contribute with 19 carries and 62 yards and a touchdown, but did not have the averages you'd like to see from a back like him. Still, the rushing attack was consistent and managed to pick up a few key runs here and there to keep drives moving, and that's all you can ask from these young rookies. Shout outs to Buster Bawlls who led the way for these two backs, adding a pair of pancakes to the continental breakfast.
Offensive Line: Chuck Roth once again led the team with four pancakes today, but did allow a sack. Marc Hamel was right behind with 3 pancakes as well. Minus the single sack, Howitzer had time to throw and the rushing attack was able to find some holes to exploit, so a good job by the line today.
Overall: This was probably the most complete performance by the Python offense so far this year. Additional receivers are starting to establish themselves, taking the heat off Brown and giving Howitzer some options, which should really open things up in the passing game and on the ground. The emergence of Christiansen as well should help both backs tire out the talented defenses in the league, and if both units can remain consistent then the Pythons should be able to hang in there against offensive powerhouses like the London Royals and Norfolk Seawolves.
Defense
Passing: Coming into this game, Kansas City had one of the most vaunted passing attacks in the DSFL. And coming out of this game, I still think that is mostly true. Trailing much of the day, Covington III was asked to throw the ball 38 times, completing 22 of those passes for 212 yards, a touchdown, and an interception. A mixed day for Covington III and his receivers, but given the score they were asked to do the impossible numerous times and you can't fault them for not always succeeding. Raccoon had himself quite a day, hauling in five catches for 71 yards. Cooper as well brought in five catches for 33, and Whebet and Campbell operated as the deeper threats. Whebet caught 3 for 34, and Campbell 2 for 43. Myles Smith obviously gets credit for his interception, but also tied for the lead on the team with Foster for pass defends with 2. The Coyotes got their yards, but the poor field position and many penalties helped give the Pythons the edge in their 'bend, don't break' style.
Rushing: Difficult to judge the rushing defense today. Realistically the Coyotes only ran for 111 yards, which should be an impressive thing for Portland. However Kansas City was trailing much of the day and couldn't rely on their rushing attack much as they tried to play catch up. Still, holding Kitchens to 63 yards on 16 carries should be celebrated. Tutankhamun was more effective, 48 yards on nine carries, but its difficult to tell if he would have sustained that success if given more chances. Martinsson and Smith led the team in tackles with eight each. McBobby, Hoffman, and Slayer all added in tackles for losses as well. Altogether solid day for this unit.
Overall: Kansas City came into this game as one of the strongest offenses in the league, and they showed flashes of why all day long. Still, the Pythons were in the right places and the right times enough to stall those drives out, and the Coyotes' penalties on the day did not help. The Pythons have now faced two of the top scoring offenses in the league this year, and they looked much improved against Kansas City compared to Norfolk. Still, this unit has a ways to go and will need to continue to improve before the end of the season.
Game Balls
Korbin Brown, WR: 5 Rec, 64 Yds, 1 TD, 4 KR, 173 Yds, 1 TD
Our first game ball here goes to Korbin Brown, and it was an easy choice. Brown was huge on the day as the leading receiver on the team, but deserves special recognition for his 98 yard kick return. Kansas City had pulled within a touchdown, and the game was far from certain when Brown streaked down the side line and scored. This is the first kick return touchdown on the year, and is by far the longest. Brown manages to bring it every week on offense, but when he delivers on special teams it gives the Pythons a huge boost.
Myles Smith, LB: 8 Tck, 2 PD, 1 Int
Honestly, this second game ball was tough. We looked at Christiansen and his performance on the ground. Howitzer, and his day through the air. Also at Roth, and his job anchoring the line that opened holes for Christiansen and kept Howitzer mostly upright on the day. Still, through it all, we have to give it to Smith here. Another one of the highly talented linebackers for the Pythons, Smith changed the game by co-leading the team in tackles, pass defends, and adding an interception to the mix. He made the day long and hard for Kansas City, and you can't ask for anything more.
Looking Ahead:
Week 5: At the Myrtle Beach Buccaneers (2-2)
After three games in a row against division opponents, the Pythons are going to sunny South Carolina to face the Buccaneers. Myrtle Beach opened their season defeating the Coyotes 27-17 at home, before going on the road and getting smacked by the Tijuana Luchadores 22-6. However, Myrtle Beach followed that up by shutting out the London Royals 13-0. This week, they got decimated by Norfolk on the road to the tune of 44-21. Norfolk looks to be a Juggernaut this season, so I'm going to throw that game out for the moment. The shut out against the Royals is the most intriguing game for the Buccaneers, and suggest that this may be a difficult test for the Pythons. Myrtle Beach features the best rushing defense in the entire league, and Pama and Christiansen may have a difficult day on the ground. The offense for Myrtle Beach is middle of the road however, so hopefully the Pythons defense can keep Portland in the game long enough for the offense to score some points. Kokot may be asked to have another game like he did against the Royals and force the Buccaneers to go a long way to find the end zone if Portland wants to win.
Week 6: Hosting the Tijuana Luchadores (2-2)
The Luchadores started the season as one of the hottest teams in the league. They beat the Dallas Birddogs and Myrtle Beach by a combined score of 44-19 before losing to the Coyotes in overtime 41-35. Most recently, they lost on the road to the Minnesota Grey Ducks in a tightly contested 30-25 game. At the moment, Tijuana features a very robust passing attack, leading the lead in yards per game and third in the league in passing yards per game. They are second in the league to Norfolk for points per game as well. Defensively, the story is a bit more mixed for Tijuana, and so we will have to see what they bring to the table.
And that's it everyone! Hope you enjoyed this week's breakdown and recap. I'll be doing a bit of traveling next week, so there may be an abridged version, we'll have to see. As always, thank you for reading and hope you enjoyed it.
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