Thursday, January 31, 2013

The Ace Report: Hoth in Cleveland.

Star Wars humor.  But seriously, it is ice cold in Cleveland right now.  0-3 and no end in sight.  Now the close call against the Immortals was a sign of improvement but at the same time,  Cleveland just doesn't have an identity.  Yes, they have offensive firepower with quarterback Jason Timbers leading the charge, yes they have Patrick Vance, who has been struggling this season in Cleveland.  And yes, they have Lance "Cookie" Johnson and Johnny Hoffman among others but Cleveland's true problem is their defense,  their defense is Swiss cheese.  Cleveland, we here at the Ace Report thinks you need some defensive firepower. Your corners look like pee wee football players out there.  Please Ronnie Nickens, make a trade, move a movable player and get some defense sir.

Meanwhile in Los Angeles, California Love is blaring on the speakers but we at the Ace Report have some controversial words to spread.  Ladies and Gentlemen, the Los Angeles Immortals are frauds.  Yes,  Jed Jones was the greatest thing since sliced bread his rookie season but he is suffering a massive sophomore slump.  LA can run, heck Floyd Ahanotu and Phil Proctor are the best running tandem in the league (sorry Duke and Tiquan) but LA needs to learn to protect Jed Jones.  Without Jed Jones, I have no faith in Nate Hughes to win in Los Angeles.

With that, we have a massive Week 5.  These picks are gonna be tough but you know what, time to go bold.  (or not).

Wolfpack @ Spartans:  Louisville is in beast mode right now after the dismantling of the Sentinels in London.  The Spartans cut Nate Kemp this week and rookie Antonio Curtis will get his first start.  This one seems like a no brainer, with Louisville's history against Minnesota (undefeated).  Wolfpack is the right choice,  Matt Diles, why not have another solid game.

Destruction @ Immortals: Tonight... Tonight is the night the Immortals go down.  It's the perfect set up.  Jones has been struggling,  the Immortals let the Stallions scored 17 points.  The Destruction are the defending champs but they've been on a slow start.  Tonight the Destruction wake up.  Destruction in an upset.  Ernest Campbell goes off.

Iron @ Surge:  These owners are good friends but this game seems one note.  The Surge haven't been great and the Iron were great...until Ivan Inferno went down.  This is a toss up but with the way Mitchell Harrison has struggled and the fact that the Iron gave up 8 sacks, obviously Stirling is the right call.  Former Iron wide receiver Aaron Culp, your time to shine.

Hornets @ Chill:  There's no way Edmonton wins this game right?  Bubba Jones playing lackluster, no Chris Noel for six more weeks?  The Hornets have been winning left and right, how can they possibly lose?  Well... I think they will.  I mean why not have the last two undefeated teams go down in Week 5.  Chill in an upset just because it seems right. A good game out of  Herm Johnson.

Celts @ Maulers:  Oh Boston,  you have a stout defense but Jordan Smithers is just not getting it done. Dublin's owner has been MIA for a few weeks now, no Chase Maden-Hill or Justin Dobzinski this week for Dublin.  I mean the Maulers have to have this one right?  Right.  Maulers in a slaying.  Luscious Sanders, just give him all three trophies already. (heck give him a World Bowl ring also)

Stallions @ Shoguns:  Cleveland beat Osaka in a stunner last year, can they repeat history?  Well Conner Pyatt has played well over the last few weeks plus Osaka has Donte Houle.  I mean I can't go against the Shoguns in this instance. Cleveland drops to 0-4.  At this rate, you might as well call in LeBron James.


Ace Whirls' Predictions (as of Week 5): (10-17)

Monday, January 28, 2013

Power Rankings: Week 5

Now that dust is starting the settle and some sort of true predictions can now start on who are the greats of the WAFL in 2013 are, power rankings have returned. While three teams only have wining records, most teams have played 25% of their schedule so we begin the process of cursing the lucky and giving rise to those who just miss the cut.

#1 Los Angeles
After much deliberation, the Los Angeles Immortals may not win pretty but they are still the favorites to make it to and win the World Bowl. The Immortals know how to win and strangely enough, they've gotten the job done with the best rushing offense and the worst passing offense. With a three game home stand against 1-2 Delaware, 1-2 Dublin and 2-2 Minnesota, the road to 7-0 may not be a stretch for Los Angeles.

#2 St. Louis
The Hornets have certainly been surprising in 2013. St. Louis was expected to prove, but they have grown much faster than most anticipated. St. Louis has four of their next five on the road, all tough games, against Edmonton, Osaka, Louisville and Delaware. The Hornets could show their true colors by the halfway mark.

#3 Osaka
The Shoguns have lost two tightly contested games on the road but have looked extremely strong in their two triumphs. Conner Pyatt has stayed healthy and remains the most lethal dual-threat in the WAFL. The Shoguns have three straight at home before they hit their tough stretch so winning needs to come sooner rather than later for the Shoguns to keep momentum.

#4 Louisville
The Wolfpack showed that they can get out of their early season "Funk" once again, thumping Cincinnati this past week, so much so that our confidence for the Sentinels has put them completely out of our top five. Louisville has completely dominant and if Funk continues his play as he did in London, the Wolfpack could be in the World Bowl all over again.

#5 Queen City
This was a tough one, especially with the concerns that Joesph Redfeather's job is not a for sure thing. the one thing that set the Corsairs apart has been their schedule and how they have performed. Queen City's two losses have come to undefeated Los Angeles by 7 and undefeated St. Louis by 6. They came back and defeated the Maulers - who are actually number six in our rankings. With Cleveland, Philadelphia and Stirling on the horizon, big things are expected from the Corsairs moving forward, especially if Tony Henderson gets more carries.

Just missed the cut:
#6 Boston
#7 Edmonton

Monday Morning Waffles Week 4 (2013)

And then there was one,  with Las Vegas' win over the Edmonton Chill (14-7 in a nail bitter)  The Cleveland Stallions remain the only team with a zero in the win column, we wish the Stallions the best of luck going forward.  With Las Vegas' win the Western conference is a heated race with 2nd and 5th place separated by one win a piece.  Cincinnati, St. Louis and Los Angeles are the only teams with winning records heading into Week 5.  This is going to be a tight knit season.  Let's recap Week 4.

BOS @ QCC:  You know I really thought the Maulers had this one after Luscious Sander had been playing lights out the entire first half and the fact Joseph Redfeather is channeling his inner Mark Sanchez but stranger things happen in this league.  A deep bomb to Bryson McGrew gave the Corsairs the win.  Tony Henderson's 198 all purpose yards probably helped the Corsairs cause anyways.

CIN @ LOU:  The road to the World Bowl begins for Blake Wilson and the Wolfpack, an absolute trashing of the once undefeated Sentinels 49-7.  Matt Diles had a career game recording 197 receiving yards and three touchdowns.  Wilson threw for 314 yards.  It was baffling to see the Wolfpack win so lopsided but if you're Cincy, you have to be concerned about Joe Sloan in road game situations.

LA @ CLE:  Los Angeles beat Cleveland 24-17. Wait that has to be a typo... It's not... oh, okay.  Yeah Los Angeles didn't look so stellar against Cleveland as Cleveland went on a route late.  Timbers threw for 254 yards in the loss, but Floyd Ahanotu had 134 rushing yards on his former team but in the end, LA prevails and Cleveland keeps the downtrodden streak.

MIN @ STL:  The St. Louis Hornets are the feel good story of WAFL 2013, after a bad/forgettable 2012 season, the Hornets are literally in control of their own destiny stringing an undefeated season at 3-0.  They beat the Spartans who have struggled without AJ Blaylock.  Bruce Johnson threw for 249 yards and Marcus Forte chipped in 96 yards on the ground in the win.

OSK @ PHI:   I wasn't expecting a Philly victory but I wasn't expecting a thrashing like 34-6.  The Iron just didn't seem the same without Inferno under center.  Mitchell Harrison did however throw for 180 yards, so that's something positive... but he was also sacked eight times.  Donte Houle's 140 yards on the ground carried the Shoguns to another win

EDM @ LVD:  Despite Herman Johnson's 157 yards on the ground, the Diablos prevailed 14-7 to win their first game this season and get owner Eric Walsh's mind off a possible 0-16 season.  It was a passionate performance from the Diablos defense which only gave up one touchdown and held Bubba Jones under 100 yards passing.  Will Nolan's heroic burst into the end zone has the city of Las Vegas headed to New Orleans with high spirits.

Things to ask heading into Week 5

- Are the Wolfpack geared for a title run?
- Can Boston get some freaking offense consistency?
- Is Los Angeles Overrated? (gasp)
- Are the Hornets legit title contenders?
- Are the Diablos going to turn the season around?

I'm Ace Whirls, it's only my opinion.

Thursday, January 24, 2013

WAFL Game Notes: Week 4


WAFL Game Notes: Week 4

Boston Maulers (1-1) @ Queen City Corsairs (1-2)
Thursday January 23 / 7:45pm CST / Guy B. Mayo Memorial (92,746)

Storylines:
The Maulers and Corsairs both relay on their running. Bam Bam Thunderman and Tony Henderson have been icons with their teams for the last three years that has helped the two teams combine for seven rushing touchdowns this season.

Boston is best in the WAFL at taking care of the football – just one turnover in two games. The Maulers offense has had big improvement from 2012. The team is #2 in points per game but strangely enough is bottom five in total, passing and rushing offensive yards.

Key Matchup:
The Maulers and Corsairs are last and next to last, respectively, in rush defense. Henderson and Thunderman should both have great impact days but the one that makes the biggest difference may lead his team to victory.

Difference Maker:
Luscious Sanders has been out of control. His five interceptions and two defensive touchdowns leads the league in both categories and Joseph Redfeather has never been known to make the best decisions in key situations. Sources say that Henderson’s carries are expected to spike but the odds Sanders doesn’t make his impact on this game are exceptionally thin.

Cincinnati Sentinels (3-0) @ Louisville Wolfpack (1-2)
Saturday January 25 / 1:30pm CST / Unitas Stadium (61,008)

Storylines:
Cincinnati and Louisville will meet in London on the day the first WAFL official game was played in 2011 on January 25, 2011. London was where the first WAFL test game was played. The Sentinels are undefeated but not without some luck and Hail Mary’s along the way while the Wolfpack’s offense has been upsetting in losses. 

The Sentinels have won their first three games with offense. They are top five in points per game, total yards and passing yards. These two teams are far from mistake free. Louisville has committed the third most penalties (15) and both teams have turned the ball over 9 times, an average of three per game.

Key Matchup:
Louisville has the fifth best rushing offense while the Sentinels boast the fourth worst rushing defense. This may be the game that Tiquan Collins and the Louisville run game finally gets going.

Difference Maker:
In both Louisville’s losses, they have allowed big offensive plays that have crushed any momentum they had. If any player will make a difference in this game, it will be Dustin McKnight on the outside. If he creates separation and allows Joe Sloan to let it fly, the Wolfpack could be staring at 1-3.
Los Angeles Immortals (3-0) @ Cleveland Stallions (0-2)
Saturday January 25 / 3:00pm CST / Cleveland Stadium (102,329)

Storylines:
It’s the Cleveland Stallions home opener Saturday and Cleveland’s second season has not gotten off to the start they would have hoped for. The Stallions have lost two games by a combined 49 points in 2013 and, while they have racked up the yards, the team is just not producing points, averaging 10 points per game (lowest average in the league).

The Immortals defense has been unbelievable. The team is giving up just 6.67 points per game, almost eight points less than any other team. They are a top three defense in every category and shut out Louisville last week. The 288 rushing yards allowed is less than half of what Queen City has allowed on the ground.

Key Matchup:
The only problem with Los Angeles this year has been their passing attack. The Immortals are averaging a league low 95.33 passing yards per game, more than 50 yards less than any other teams average. Cleveland’s defense gives up a league high 290 passing yards per game. If the Stallions win this battle, they could have a chance at pulling an upset and keeping it close.

Difference Maker:
For Cleveland to get the win, Jason Timbers will have to get his wide outs involved. Vance probably won’t find much success against LA so it’s up to Timbers to rack up the yards and force LA to play from behind, something that the Immortals would rather not do.

Minnesota Spartans (2-1) @ St. Louis Hornets (2-0)
Saturday January 25 / 4:30pm CST / Hardees Stadium (75,005)

Storylines:
The Hornets are playing their third straight home game to open up 2013. With a win, St. Louis would match the three wins they claimed in 2012. Minnesota just acquired star wide receiver Marcus Berry from Las Vegas this week, giving backup Nate Kemp another target to throw to. Kemp had over 250 passing yards in his debut last week against the Diablos.

Unlike Louisville and Cincinnati, these two teams do not make mistakes. Minnesota has just 20 yards in penalties in three games and only four turnovers. The Hornets also have four turnovers and six penalties through two games.

Key Matchup:
Nate Kemp may have had a great game last week but will probably need the help of Ahmad Price this week against a real tough Hornets ‘d’. There’s only one problem: the Hornets have the number one rush defense in the WAFL, giving up just 85.50 yards per game. Minnesota and St. Louis are the league’s two best rushing teams through three weeks and whether Ahmad Price can break through will be crucial.

Difference Maker:
Why not. Marcus Berry. These two teams are playing so well that what may separate the Spartans from the Hornets is their new and improved wide receiving core. The Hornets aren’t known for their weapons and Marcus berry may just get the Spartans the victory.
Osaka Shoguns (1-2) @ Philadelphia Iron (2-1)
Saturday January 25 / 6:00pm CST / Shogun Battlefield (63,725)

Storylines:
Osaka will try and get their first win on the road while Philadelphia will try and win their first at home. The Iron will still be without their starting wide receiver Javier Goya and Ivan Inferno, although they did make a trade with the Hornets to acquire Mitchell Harrison, who will start Saturday. The Iron has failed to reach the end zone through the air in three games this season.

Philadelphia will try for a fourth straight game to score over 20 points. The offense averages roughly 16 points per game and has lacked explosiveness that many other teams in the WAFL have on a weekly basis. 

Key Matchup:
Conner Pyatt has a nack for being able to not only pass teams to death but run on them as well. Due to that double threat, Osaka is the fourth highest rushing team in the league. The Iron allow less than 100 yards of rushing offense total, second best in the league. If Philadelphia can capture the winning formula that Edmonton had – pressure and containment on Conner Pyatt, than the Iron will finish the game 3-1.

Difference Maker:
When Dante Houle has played well, the Shoguns have been an unstoppable force. When it all is on Conner Pyatt’s shoulders it hasn’t worked out to well for Osaka. The difference in this game will be if Dante Houle can rack up yards and plenty of carries, keeping Philadelphia on their toes. He doesn’t have to have a great game, he just has to be good enough.

Edmonton Chill (2-1) @ Las Vegas Diablos (0-3)
Sunday January 26 / 8:30pm CST / Ripley Stadium (41,031)

Storylines:
Week 4 Sony Sunday Night Football’s Game of the Week. The Las Vegas Diablos made big trades this week in a sort of last-ditch effort to fix the issues that have plagued the Diablos at the start of this year. Marcus Berry is gone and in his place are two stout defensive linemen: Andrew Hawkins and Scott Cooley. The Diablos are aiming to get more of a pass rush so their electric secondary can have an easier time down the field.

While the Chill is one of the most balanced teams in the league but mistakes have hurt them all year long, particularly by their gunslinger Bubba Jones. Edmonton has 18 penalties, highest in the league for 120 yards, second highest in the league. Their 12 turnovers is highest in the league. Vegas is second in that category, 10 turnovers in three games. Whichever teams makes the least amount of mistakes will easily be the winner in this contest.

Key Matchup:
Michael O’Connor vs. Edmonton linebackers. The Edmonton pass defense has been absolutely outstanding, tops in the league giving up just 72 pass yards per game. That is not a typo. The next best pass defense in the league is Los Angeles – giving up twice as much, 147.33. O’Connor is not much of a thrower but a couple of big hits by an unblocked Bobby Starks and Jamal McCall will have O’Connor freaking out. O’Connor needs to establish the pass as much as possible early.

Difference Maker:
Jason Dodd won player of the week last week, dominating the line of scrimmage against Osaka. Dodd has proven he can take over games before and he has another opportunity to take over this game, with a struggling rushing attack (Vegas: 14th in rushing offense) and a struggling quarterback group.

The Ace Report: Loss Vegas

Well it finally happened, Las Vegas cracked and made yet another trade...or two.  But these trades are so head scratching it makes us at the Ace Report question the sanity of Diablos owner Eric Walsh.  Let's start with the first trade.  Los Angeles got struggling veteran Tank Tankerson and wide receiver Jermaine Watts and a 1st round rookie pick AND a 2nd round free agency pick for WR Zemante Ndukwe, DT Andrew Hawkins, and TE Dan Noble.  Noble seems like the breadwinner of this deal since O'Connor needs a massive target like Noble.  Nduwke is young and speedy, just what Vegas wanted and Hawkins will now team up with 2nd year player Jim Bowman for a zany pass rush.  It is rumored Vegas had to throw in the 2nd round FA pick because of an offseason agreement that sent Gerod Perron to Vegas.  Speaking of Perron, he's the guy in Vegas now.  Vegas stunned the league with the trading of Marcus Berry to Minnesota for defensive end Scott Cooley.  Vegas desperately needed a defensive end and Cooley fits the bill.  I asked GM Eric Walsh for a comment and he said this  "Marcus Berry had grown tired of losing and his production was at an all time low, we felt it was best to part ways".  Walsh said Berry would never leave Las Vegas and retire a Diablo.  So much for that.

On to this week's picks.

Boston @ Queen City:  Both of these offenses are struggling but Boston's defense is booming.  Queen City is coming off a loss to the red hot Hornets.  Boston is on a week's rest and hopes for a better game out of Jordan Smithers.  In the end we favor the Maulers in this Thursday showdown.  The duo of Jackson Lawrence and Luscious Sanders are too damn good.

Sentinels @ Wolfpack (in London):  London Calling!  We got one of the best offenses in the league against one of the best defenses in the league.  The Wolfpack will be looking for offensive firepower while trying to contain Joe Sloan.  Cincy has yet to lose a game and we don't see this week any different.  Joe Sloan and the Sentinels should win.

Immortals @ Stallions:  Oh man Cleveland,  you had a chance against Delaware and couldn't do it.  Come on Cleveland, you're killing me.  Patrick Vance is dying out there.  Meanwhile Los Angeles gets to debut Tank Tankerson to Jason Timbers  (Oh Boy). Immortals by 21.   Big game out of Alex Cooper.

Spartans @ Hornets:  This is the headline game of Week 4.  Marcus Berry's debut with the Spartans but the Hornets have been red hot at home.  Minnesota has to rely on Nate Kemp in the passing game.  Minnesota almost loss to Vegas last week, this week they get stung in the city of the Arch.  Bruce Johnson and the Hornets win.

Shoguns @ Iron:  The Shoguns head into Philly to face former Hornets QB Mitchell Harrison as he makes his Iron debut while Ivan Inferno is out for five weeks.  The Iron held on to beat Dublin and the Shoguns are a really good team.  I'm torn about this game but I just don't think Harrison can beat the Shoguns.  Shoguns win and a big game out of DeOnta Chavis.

Chill @ Diablos:  For some reason the League kept this as Sunday Night Football.  The Diablos are desperate for a win after three weeks of epic collapses.  The new weapons finally debut in Vegas but there is doubt among the Diablos faithful.  Every time I pick Las Vegas it backfires,  every time I pick against them,  I WIN.  Therefore logic tells me  Edmonton wins of course.  The Diablos can't contain Chris Noel.


Ace Whirls' Predictions (as of Week 4): (7-14)



Monday, January 21, 2013

Late Night Monday Morning Waffles Week 3 with Ace Whirls

So here we are three weeks into the WAFL season.  Things are getting pretty interesting in each conference and we had some major shakeups with the first few trades of the year this week.  The Iron decided to go after Mitchell Harrison from the Hornets while Inferno sits out five weeks with an injury.  The Immortals acquired veteran defensive tackle Tank Tankerson from Las Vegas for Dan Noble, Andrew Hawkins, and Zemante Ndukwe.  And the big shocker  Las Vegas traded struggling two year star Marcus Berry to Minnesota for defensive end Scott Cooley who should bring a much needed pass rush to Vegas.  Let's recap the week that was.

STI @ CIN:  Paul Young's homecoming was somewhat lackluster in a 21-10 loss.  While Young threw for 208 yards and managed the game well.  It was some rather fishy calls in Cincinnati favor which lead a bad taste in the Surge fans mouths.  Marvel Palmer became the first running back this season to accumulate over 200 yards rushing in a game.  Cincy still stands undefeated.

OSK @ EDM:  Osaka's offensive line gave up eight sacks in their 23-13 loss to Edmonton.  Bubba Jones threw for 221 yards in the win and Chris Noel added 124 yards on the ground.  The Shoguns were concerned about Conner Pyatt who found distraught after finding out his internet girlfriend had passed away shortly before the game started.  Edmonton moves up in the Western conference.

PHI @ DUB:  Philadelphia edged out Dublin 20-14.  The Iron will have to deal with the injury to franchise quarterback Ivan Inferno who is out five weeks, when asked for a comment from owner Max Winter, he gave me a juvenile response that is unprofessional.  Graham Holiday threw for 287 yards in the loss.

LOU @ LOS:  So much for a shootout.  21-0  Immortal victory but you can't be mad with how both defenses performed,  it was a lack of offense on the Louisville side of the ball that ruined the Wolfpack's chances.  The Wolfpack was gracious in defeat giving nothing but praise to the Immortals and owner Dave Arnold.

LVD @ MIN:  The Diablos almost had the win,  holding a 3-0 lead in a mostly defensive battle, the offenses exploded in the 4th.  Down 15-12,  Brian Swan picked off a Michael O'Connor pass and returned it for a touchdown which would be the difference.  The Diablos drop to 0-3 and gave up 278 passing yards to Nate Kemp.  The Diablos then traded Marcus Berry on Monday, someone clearly wanted to move on.

QCC @ STL:  The Hornets are the feel good story of the season so far with a 23-17 win.  After a very rough 2012 campaign, owner Daley Holder is nothing but smiles as his Hornets are on the right track.  Bruce Johnson threw for 242 yards in the win.  Matt Forte added 122 yards on the ground.  As for the Corsairs, they tried to hold on but just couldn't come back.

CLE @ DEL:  Despite the loss of JoJo Benton and Kellen Davis, Darius Rider prevailed with a 344 yard passing performance over the lackluster Cleveland defense.  As for Cleveland, someone needs to wake the echoes in Ohio.  The Stallions should go look for some defensive fire power because right now,  it's a two horse race for worst record,  Las Vegas or Cleveland.

Things to ask going into Week 4

-  Has Las Vegas finally hit the wall?
-  Can Mitchell Harrison win in Philadelphia?
-  Can Louisville get the offense going?
-  Who wins first:  Cleveland or Las Vegas?
-  Los Angeles the team to beat?

I'm Ace Whirls,  it's only my opinion.

Thursday, January 17, 2013

The Ace Report: Is There A Doctor In The House?

There is a concerning trend happening in the WAFL and we here at the Ace Report need to put in our two cents,  There has been an alarming number of quarterback injuries so far this season but it seems like more scramblers have been at risk than ever before.  A fun bit of trivia:  In Week 2 alone,  4/5 of the teams in the Western conference had their quarterback go down.  Las Vegas:  Glorious Michael O'Connor had a brief return until being knocked out of the game with a strained bicep.  Los Angeles:  Jed Jones bruised his ribs in the 4th quarter of their close win over Queen City.  Osaka:  Conner Pyatt went down late in the 4th sucking the life out of the Shoguns home crowd but the biggest loser was Minnesota.  Minnesota loss star quarterback AJ Blaylock to an abdominal tear for five weeks.  Nate Kemp will have to step up in the Spartans locker room.  The biggest winner?  Edmonton, thanks to Bubba Jones being a pure pocket passer, he hasn't had to worry about injuries for now.  We really can't give any grief to the Central or Eastern divisions,  Their QBs are healthy.  The Western Conference, now there's a division that needs an ambulance on stand by.

On to the picks.

Stirling @ Cincinnati:  Paul Young's glorious homecoming to Ohio where he's facing a red hot Joe Sloan but I just not sure about Cincy's defense after a close call against Philadelphia.  We're going with the Surge in a slight upset.  We think Aaron Culp will have a big game.

Osaka @ Edmonton:  A key showdown in the West with two teams at 1-1.  Osaka's Conner Pyatt is the MVPYATT so far this season but Bubba Jones is on an emotional high.  This truly is a bend but don't break battle but in the end, I see Osaka victorious with a huge game from Donte Houle.

Philadelphia @ Dublin:  Dublin will be without Justin Dobzinksi and Chase Maden-Hill due to league suspensions from the commissioner.  I think Philadelphia will attack this weakness by going for Dublin's corners and airing it out.  Iron win and  Ivan Inferno has a career day.

Louisville @ Los Angeles:  Oh lord, what a showdown.  This is like World Bowl good.  Louisville proved themselves against Delaware but I just can't go against Jed Jones.  I pick Immortals in a close one.  Floyd Ahanotu will get a little hello from Andrei Kruschev.

Las Vegas @ Minnesota: Minnesota is without AJ Blaylock but they still have Ahmad Price.  Las Vegas has giving up over 50 points combined in only two games this season.  The defense is a mess and the offense is dysfunctional.  This could be a crucial game for Diablos defensive coordinator Andre Diaz.  However Ahmad Price is too damn good.  Upset:  Spartans win and Diablos drop three straight.

Queen City @ St. Louis: This is a tough one,  Queen City has been playing great and St. Louis win over Las Vegas wasn't as great as it seems.  Danny Greene is a liability and bonus to the Corsairs, it just depends which Greene shows up.  I'll take Queen City slightly with Jake Legacy having a key part in it.

Cleveland @ Delaware (MLK special):  On Monday afternoon, the Delaware Destruction will host the Cleveland Stallions on Martin Luther King day.  It won't be a special day for the home crowd,  Delaware is a mess right now.  Rider is trying but he isn't getting any help.  The big thing here:  No JoJo and No Kellen.  JoJo Benton and Kellen Davis won't be here.  Therefore, we believed Cleveland will win this game in an upset.  Patrick Vance will have a huge game.

Ace Whirls' Predictions (as of Week 3): (4-10)

Monday, January 14, 2013

Monday Morning Waffles: "Slightly Toasted" Week 2 (2013)


Hey it's week 2 of Monday Morning Waffles.  Things are starting to shape up in the WAFL as some teams are rising to the top and others are falling flat on their face.  Las Vegas and Delaware are the only 0-2 teams in the league (Cleveland at 0-1) and Cincinnati and Los Angeles are the lone undefeated teams


LVD @ STL:  Las Vegas more like Lost Vegas lol...  Las Vegas may finally be done for, maybe it was the whole O'Connor/Saracen debacle, maybe it's the fact they downgraded on their front seven. But two straight weeks and they have loss games to two win less teams from the pre season.  As for the Hornets, an impressive first showing with their defense lighting up the Diablos.  Michael O'Connor was suppose to have a glorious comeback but went down from a Xavier Berg sack in the 1st.

EDM @ BOS:  Bubba Jones the comeback king brought the Chill back from a deficit to upset the heavily favored Boston Maulers.  Boston played exceptionally on defense but it was the offense and Jordan Smithers that faltered.  Chris Noel had 170 rushing yards in the victory.  Boston will have to figure out their offense to play close games the rest of the season.

MIN @ OSK:  Osaka has become one of the best teams in the league in a short period of time.  Conner Pyatt has revitalized his career in Japan.  He is playing like a God among mere mortals.  I got MVPyatt to trend on twitter.  As for Minnesota, AJ Blaylock while explosive risked his health for his team, it resulted in an Abdominal Tear.  He'll be out 5 weeks and Nate Kemp will have to take over the reigns.

CIN @ PHI:  Joe Sloan is proving all his doubter wrong with another stunning performance,  Sloan threw for 319 yards in the win. The Iron played it close but a costly dropped pass by an overwhelmed wide receiver cost the Iron the victory.  Philadelphia owner Max Winter also blames his end zones being messed up as a crucial part of the loss.

DUB @ STI:   The International Series started with a Stirling victory.   Paul Young came back from the dead with a  264 yard passing performance.  Aaron Culp continues his impressive season with 185 receiving yards.  As for Dublin,  they didn't lose, they just loss to a better team.  Dublin should have a good season despite this slight setback.

LOS @ QCC:  Los Angeles had a slight scare when Jed Jones went down for the count but luckily for them, it was only 2 quarters.  Los Angeles' bread and butter is their running game.  Floyd Ahanotu and Phil Proctor are the best running back tandem in the league.  Queen City did well but once again, it was just the fact they loss to the better team.

DEL @ LOU:  What the heck is happening in Delaware?  The defending champs are 0-2?  The Wolfpack while not stellar got the win 24-10.    Blake Wilson had 247 all purpose yards giving the Wolfpack a solid victory.  Louisville still had one of the best defenses in the league and Delaware just isn't the same as last year, seems like something is missing... or someone.

This concludes Monday Morning Waffles for Week 2

Things to think about heading into Week 3

- Does the Western conference hold the most explosive quarterbacks?
- Is Michael O'Connor going to complete a full game this season?
-  Is Boston a title contender with that defense?
-  Is Stirling a World Bowl darling?
-  Is Delaware tanking only to come back on top?




Thursday, January 10, 2013

The Ace Report: Graham Holiday for MVP?

 Last Sunday night in chilly Las Vegas,  The Dublin Celts upset the Las Vegas Diablos with a 27-11 victory. Graham Holiday played exceptionally well,   so well that we at the Ace Report have decided to put him in our MVP race.  Yes,  it is quite crazy but we believe  Holiday runs the pistol offense quite well in Dublin and could possible make Dublin a potential dark horse for the World Bowl.  As for other MVP candidates after Week 1,  Ivan Inferno for his performance against Delaware,  LA's Floyd Ahanotu for a quick start in the rushing title race and corner Luscious Sanders for his three interception performance against Louisville.

Now on to this week's picks.

Las Vegas @ St. Louis:  Las Vegas looked bad against the Celts, but the verdict is that's mostly due to a poor outing from Matt Saracen who has now been benched for Michael O'Connor.  O'Connor has been working on his scrambling and hopes for a solid game tonight.  For the Hornets,  the focus is on Bruce Johnson to limit turnovers.  In the end,  we see the Diablos winning with Yushin Okami being the game breaker.

Edmonton @ Boston:  Bubba Jones welcome home to the waterfall of Crown Royal but do not drink from the waterfall.  Let's face it,  Bubba Jones isn't who he used to be.  The Maulers have one of the best secondaries in the league, but tonight it's Jackson Lawrence's time to shine and Sanders will take a back seat.  We got the Maulers  big in this one.

Minnesota @ Osaka:  Minnesota is in deep trouble,  a full fledged investigation of player misconduct could be going down soon enough.  Osaka just got the raw end of the deal with Sloan throwing a game winning touchdown with no time left.  We at the Ace Report have Osaka pulling off the victory,  we're concerned if Blaylock can deliver after a shoddy outing last week against Stirling.

Cincinnati @ Philadelphia:  Philadelphia shocked the world with a 9-0 victory over Delaware.  Cincy upset Osaka at home in the season opener.  Someone has to lose.  And well luck is sometimes just luck.  We'll take Ivan Inferno over Joe Sloan and we'll take Philadelphia kicker Jesse Lilly over any other kicker in this league.  Iron win by 10.

Dublin @ Stirling:   Dublin and Stirling start off the WAFL International Series.  We're going to go with Dublin because Stirling just hasn't delivered up to expectations.  Paul Young is a concern to us and he'll need to play better in this game.  We see Dwayne Spain as the impact player for the Celts.

Los Angeles @ Queen City:  Last time the Immortals played the Corsairs,  Jed Jones cemented his rookie campaign with a victory that won him Rookie of the Year.  These Corsairs are different though,  it's earlier in the season and they're motivated.  Now motivation hasn't worked when we do picks but you know what,  I'm feeling this.  Corsairs win and Joseph Redfeather plays the game of his career.

Delaware @ Louisville:  Game of the Week.  Both are 0-1  and someone is gonna leave 0-2.  The truth is people,  I can't decide.  It's really a toss up who wins this game,  it's like asking me who'd I rather throw one last pass to win a game:  Darius Rider or Skeletor P. Funk.  Both men have a World Bowl championship ring but neither truly are elite quarterbacks.  I think Delaware's  defense is going to be too much.  Houston Adandre will keep Funk grounded.   I'll take Delaware but it's really a toss up.

Ace Whirls' Predictions (as of Week 2):  (3-4)

Monday, January 7, 2013

Monday Morning Waffles: Week 1 (2013)


Monday Morning Waffles is back ladies and gentlemen,  Time to go over the week that was and see who's shining and who wishes they had a mulligan.  As always I'll be going over each game in detail giving my point of view.  Let's Go.

OSK@CIN: Well that was unexpected,  Joe Sloan delivers a game winning touchdown pass to cornerback Roderick Kelly is some Cincy trickery as the Shoguns go down 24-21. Sloan threw for 261 yards in the victory.  The Shoguns looked like the better team but the Sentinels rallied back.  Shoguns backup Kim Jung Soo was almost a hero with his touchdown pass but Sloan one up'd him.

EDM @ LOS:  CALIFORNIA LOVE! The Immortals rolls 34-10 over the Chill who were... ICE COLD. Bubba Jones threw five interceptions in the loss. Floyd Ahanotu did go off like I had predicted totaling over 150 yards  and a TD.  Edmonton will be looking for answers heading into Week 2.  While Dave Arnold and the Immortals will keep the Playoff train running hot.

LOU @ BOS:  I was wrong.  Dead wrong about the Wolfpack, inspiration be damned as the Maulers used that Tom Brady pep talk I gave them for Christmas to good use as they roll the Wolfpack 31-10.  Lucious Sanders and Jackson Lawrence, deadliest corner back duo in the league.

MIN @ STI:  Momentum stops nothing apparently, The Spartans got a competitive win over the Surge 26-14 in a game in which Paul Young threw 5 interceptions.  Rumors were swirling that owner Sandy Campbell was going to put Garrett Robinson in at half time but Paul Young said "trust me I got this".  He didn't.  Ahmad Price had 116 rushing yards in the victory, the Spartans do need to be concerned with AJ Blaylock who went down multiple times.

CLE @ QCC:  The Corsairs handle Cleveland easily 31-10 where Joseph Redfeather proved his doubters wrong but then again... it's Cleveland.  Beat Louisville, then we'll talk.  Tony Henderson rushed for 148 yards in the victory.  Cleveland needs to trade for a hot ticket defender because Cleveland's defense is almost as bad as the city of Cleveland itself*  (*that's what people tell me at least)

PHI @ DEL: 9-0.  The final score was 9-0... Philadelphia.  The Iron shock the nation with their massive upset over Delaware who just could not get it together offensively but it would help if they had a good quarterback (OH NO HE DIDN'T).  I'm gonna be honest folks, he may have a ring but DARIUS RIDER is a run of the mill quarterback.  He is nothing.  Nothing without Nick Thibedoux.  The reason the Destruction won the World Bowl?  NICK THIBEDOUX.  Darius Rider is a checkdowner. Darius Rider isn't a franchise quarterback.  Congrats to the Iron for the victory.

DUB @ LVD:  Glory is rung through Ireland,  I nailed the upset of the week picking Dublin.  This spelled trap game for the Diablos and they fell right in.  Diablos suffer a 27-11 defeat at home thanks in large part to Matt Saracen, the once called savior of Vegas in now the goat in Vegas. His pick six to Chase Maden-Hill gave Dublin a 14-0 advantage. Excellent game out of Graham Holiday. Excellent win for the Celts. Rumors circling Michael O'Connor is back in charge in Vegas heading into Week 2.


This concludes Monday Morning Waffles for the first week of the 2013 season.

Things to ask heading into Week 2

-  Is Philadelphia legit for a title run?
-  Is Floyd Ahanotu back?
-  Are the Wolfpack on the decline?
-  Will Las Vegas falter this season?

I'm Ace Whirls,  it's only my opinion.

Thursday, January 3, 2013

The Ace Report: Throwdown Thursday

Huzzah!  It's finally here, the glorious 2013 WAFL Football Season.  We saw many changes over the preseason and now gentlemen it's time to put it all on the field.  Tonight will be a double header of massive proportions.  Osaka vs Cincinnati,  the Till Death Do Us Part Bowl between Kyle and Jaimie Walsh,  last year Osaka handled Cincinnati easily and caused a ruckus in the Walsh household for sure.

We then move on to Los Angeles vs Edmonton,  those Jones boys well they seem to know what they're doing.  Both graduates of Michigan State university,  Jed was always compared to his brother when it is quite clear they are two completely different quarterbacks.  Bubba Jones is a more finesse pocket passer looking for receivers in the open and good match ups.  Jedediah is more of a loose cannon, throwing wild passes and also breaking daylight if he sees a good seam to run through.  Yep, nothing like brotherly love.

Alright well it's time for the picks and you know the drill, we got some interesting games this week including one team defying logic and deciding that their backup quarterback is now the leader of an offensive onslaught.  Go Figure.

Osaka @ Cincinnati:  The Kickoff special.  Two owners with different styles but they share an undying love for each other.  This opening night is crucial to the Western conference as three of their teams will be in action.  Joe Sloan vs Conner Pyatt, two stout offensives and two wrecking crew defenses.  When it's all said in done,  I see the Sentinels at  0-1.  Osaka  will prevail the Walsh madness and DeOnta Chavis is my choice for impact player of the game.

Edmonton @ Los Angeles:  Brothers.  Can't live with them,  Can't live without them.  While neither Jones brother has a storied WAFL past, well Jed did demolish the Corsairs but that's about it.  This one truly is an interesting one.  You have Chris Noel who could break the single season rushing yard record and you have Jed Jones who is the Los Angeles Immortals.  If either one of these men went down,  tragedy across the board.  It's time for Jed to win.  Immortals by 10.  Most baffling thing,  Floyd Ahanotu is going off tonight.

Louisville @ Boston:  This could have been a season opener as well,  good golly.  Louisville just won the Sugar Bowl in the BCS over a decently favored Florida squad.  Now what does this have to do with this game?  Momentum,  the Wolfpack take the momentum running through Kentucky and take it to the Maulers.  Louisville win thanks in part to Duke Overstreet.

Minnesota @ Stirling:  The tale of two owners,  The Surge are my dark horse to make a run for it all.  They picked up Aaron Culp in a trade with Philadelphia and now have one of the best receiver cores in the league.  Minnesota is suffering multiple penalty infractions for player conduct violations handed out by Commissioner Irvine.  It's a bad time in  Sota.  So I'm taking the hot hand,  Stirling in an upset?  Is this an upset?  I have no idea, Stirling is really good now since last year,  great turn around Mr. Campbell.  OchentaYOcho is gonna have a great game.

Cleveland @ Queen City: the Corsairs and Stallions are both great teams but I'm still sketchy of Cleveland's defense.  Yes, they have a great line backing core and a wonder defensive line led by Mikey Tyson but an aerial assault spells doom.  Cleveland, your corner backs aren't amazing, and that's why you won't win this one.  Queen City just has too many weapons and Joseph Redfeather,  his going off and showing he's critics he isn't no Mark Sanchez.

Philadelphia @ Delaware:  The Philadelphia Iron rose from the dead after trading away Aaron Culp but sadly, that leaves not many viable options in the passing attack that Ivan Inferno is famous for.  The Iron are just too spastic right now for me to pick them.  This one is going for Delaware, the defending champs.  Big game out of JoJo Benton incoming.

Dublin @ Las Vegas:  The Diablos.  Oh the Diablos,  Saracen is the guy now, last year there was rumors Lawrence Price was replacing Michael O'Connor.  But now Michael O'Connor has lost his job to Matt Saracen (former Stallions QB).  As for Dublin, 0-4 isn't a great preseason at all,  they just seem to be outwitted week and week out.  However, this week redemption will be rung in glorious Ireland.  Dublin in a mighty upset.  Matt Saracen has the weight of the world on him for his first career start in Vegas, the Celts will use their pistol offense and out play the Diablos. Graham Holiday throws four touchdown in the Celts first franchise win.

Ace Whirls Predictions (as of Week 1): 0-0

And that is the Ace Report for January 3rd, 2013.  Join me for some Monday Morning Waffles after this week's slate of games.