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Tuesday, October 9, 2007
Losing on purpose, dumb rules, MVPs and fantasy results
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
For the record, I’d rather be on the losing end of Friday’s Region 7 showdown between Peachtree Ridge and North Gwinnett.
Losing that game gives me an easier path in the playoffs, especially if I fall all the way to the third seed out of the region.
The Region 7 champion likely will face the second seed out of Region 8—maybe a Brookwood or Grayson—in the second round of the playoffs.
In contrast, the third seed out of Region 7 likely have to contend with the top seed out of Region 6, maybe a team like Roswell or Walton.
The same type scenario awaits the top seed out of Region 8, which will face the second seed out of Region 7—maybe a Norcross—in the second round.
So what I’m suggesting with my tongue firmly in cheek is that Grayson and North Gwinnett should both fold in their upcoming region games in order to put themselves in better position in the playoffs.
Remember, Peachtree Ridge won (or tied) the whole thing as a fourth seed last year.
Dumbest Rule in High School Football
The dumbest rule in high school football is the “band” rule, which dilutes any kind of atmosphere.
At last week’s Clarke-Central-Dacula game, the visiting Gladiators were rocking some “ESPN Sportscenter” theme song like nobody’s business, only to be told to stop by the referees.
It just seems childish. Coaches run plays in with players or signal them from the sidelines, so added noise really isn’t that much of an issue. And believe me, if you’ve seen some of the blowouts and sloppily played games I’ve witnessed this year, a little music is a welcome site.
I also think the no kickoff return rule if the ball goes past the goal line is dumb.
Last Year’s True MVP
Norcross quarterback Bryce Dykes and Peachtree Ridge defensive tackle Cameron Heyward were the 2006 offensive and defensive players of the year in Gwinnett.
But it’s becoming pretty clear who the real most valuable player of last season was — Dacula’s Cameron Kenney.
Without Kenney, the Falcons (3-3, 2-1) have struggled to put together any form of a passing game. Dacula’s leading receiver Marshall Steed has just over 200 yards receiving and two touchdowns; Kenny had close to 1,000 receiving yards and 10 touchdown receptions.
Fantasy Football Results
At least I beat, Karl, who in his infinite wisdom managed to pick a defense that was on a bye week. Technically, I guess LaGrange didn’t give up any points, but I’m docking him 20 just because.
Kurt wins again, thanks to Diante Drake’s season-high 45-point outburst.
Again, you can join in all this fun by simply posting a team—1 QB, 2 RBs, 2 WRs, 1 Defense—on the blog or by emailing me at dpurdum@ajc.com. The team with coolest name will get a chance to take on the AJC’s finest, yours truly DP and Kurt “Smells Like” Aschermann and maybe even 680 the Fan’s Karl Werl. Beat us all and receive a prize.
Post your team before Thursday at 3:30 p.m.
Last Week’s Results
DPs Dandies — 51
QB —- Nick Sorel, Norcross — 6 points (54 yards, 1 TD)
RB — D.J. Adams, Norcross — 30 (185 yards, 3 TDs)
RB — Deren Evans, Wesleyan — 21 (138 yards, 2 TDs)
WR —- Devonta Bolton, Norcross — 0 (24 yards, 0 TD)
WR —Zac Johnston, Wesleyan — 0 (0 TDs)
Defense —- Buford — -6 (points allowed to Decatur)
Kurt’s Crumbling Dynasty — 87
QB —- T.J. Smith, Berkmar — 6 (171 yards, 0 TD)
RB — Diante Drake, Central Gwinnett — 45 (230 yards, 5 TDs)
RB — Tyler Jarry, North Gwinnett — 12 (43 yards, 2 TD)
WRs —- Brice Butler, Norcross — 0 (34 yards, 0 TD)
WR — Christian Robinson, GAC — 24 (161, 2 TD)
Defense —- North Gwinnett — 0 (points allowed to Duluth)
Karl Werl’s Wrecking Crew — 49
QB —- Mike Tamburo, North Gwinnett — 30 191 yards, 4 TDs)
RB —- Kenny Miles, Brookwood — 27 (273 yards, 2 TDs)
RB —Tauren Poole, Stephens County — 0
WR —- Brice Butler, Norcross — 0 (34 yards, 0 TD)
WR —Melvin Harris, Buford — 12 (71 yards, 1 TD)
Defense —- LaGrange -20 (penalized for playing defense that was on a bye)
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