The comprehensive playoff preview

With Week 14 in the books, we now have our confirmed playoff teams, and also our confirmed forfeit playoff teams. Regardless of what has happened to this point and how the teams got there, each coach faces only one task now - win. In the case of the playoffs, for glory, in the case of the forfeit playoffs...well, we'll have to see - these have added spice don't forget, as it's a two week long match up. On that note, please submit your "forfeit" or "reward" once agreed with your opponent to the commissioner. Here we go.

Playoffs

(1) Patistan v (4) IKNAN
This is a great match up. Two division rivals all year long, who played each other in the final week. IKNAN had to win to make playoffs, and make playoffs they did. They've been good all season long, and they just squeaked their way in. Patistan meanwhile started out 0-4, went 8-0. then went 1-3 down the stretch. Have Patistan peaked too early and lost their edge? Or were they simply resting up for the playoffs? They absolutely still have the great roster they did before, but make no mistake this is going to be a competitive game.

(2) The Dream Team v (3) ADRZ
A rematch of round 1 of the playoffs last year, and The Dream Team has a chance to get revenge. Not only this, they have a shot to return to the final after losing it in 2014. ADRZ however is fighting to become the first coach to win two seasons in a row. Three teams have gone to the Corona Bowl twice in two years, all of them left with an L the second time. And this is an even match up, both teams have moments of brilliance, and both have been disappointing at times. Both teams have cooled a bit the last couple of weeks, so this will be one heck of a game to watch.


Forfeit Playoffs

The Special Brew Bowl: (11) Burdettinators v (12) The Tuckfards
After the Corona Bowl, this is the bowl game people are most interested in. And boy, it even gives the Corona Bowl a run for its money. These two LOC greats, who met each other in the Corona Bowl only 3 years ago, now face each other in the losers bowl. I can't wait to find out what the forfeit will be with these guys. We all know the story, The Tuckfards has Burdettinators number, but Burdettinators got the trophy from them. This is going to be one heck of a game.

The forfeits: If Burdettinators win, Phil has to change his team name to Tanky McTankface. If The Tuckfards win, Ollie has to let Phil change his team logo, permanently.


The Fruit Bowl: (5) Cash4Gould v (6) Bear Necessities
Two division rivals, and two playoff hopefuls, face off for the Fruit Bowl. Both these teams had a shot at the wildcard, but both fell just short. Now they face each other to clamour for the right to 5th place. It's a dynamic match up between one of the league's most experienced and least experienced, a Rookie against a Veteran. Both teams are evenly matched as well. Here's a little sweetener though, both of them are Bears fans, so at least it should be a friendly game.

The forfeits: If Cash4Gould wins, Coach Stubbs Sr has to say well done to Coach Gardner. If Bear Necessities wins, Coach Garnder has to say well done to Coach Stubbs Sr...thrilling right?


The Fish Bowl: (7) The Brady Bunch v (8) Gridiron Gang
Two teams that fought each other tooth and nail to even get a chance at the playoffs...ultimately came no where near. Despite being two of the highest scoring teams this year, both didn't bring home the wins they needed. Now they'll face each other, meaning we'll have 3 weeks of fantasy football between these two. Coach Stubbs Jr isn't thrilled about facing Brady 3 weeks in a row...this could be a vengeance game for taking the QB in the draft.

The forfeits: If Gridiron Gang wins, Coach Nunn has to go to the draft in a dolphin costume. If The Brady Bunch wins, Coach Stubbs Jr has to wear women's underwear over his suit at the draft.


The Soup Bowl: (9) Forge Flyers v (10) Tom's Tyrants
A tale of two seasons in the Soup Bowl. Forge Flyers started slow and caught fire late on, only to flame out near the end. Tom's Tyrants meanwhile had a hot middle, but it turns out they were just travelling from one cold pole, as they had a cold start and finish. None of that matters now though, as the Co-Host of the LOC Report goes toe to toe with the EDOTLOCCA. Coach Leach will just be happy he's not playing in yet another loses bowl, while Tom's Tyrants would love to win it to end a disappointing season on a high.

The forfeits: TBC

Power Rankings: The playoff hopefuls

Instead of the traditional power rankings, which at this stage of the season is a bit moot, we'll transition to my usual playoff hopefuls article, where I pluck numbers out of the air and guess the likelihood of the playoff teams. Only ADRZ and Patistan have confirmed playoff places, while The Tuckfards, Forge Flyers, Burdettinators and Tom's Tyrants have been eliminated. But don't forget for those of you already eliminated, we have the forfeit playoffs this year, so start thinking of punishments/rewards for beating your opponent - there is still plenty to play for!

The following rankings are based on the most likely scenarios, meaning the top 2 are likely to be your remaining playoff teams. However, I will also include my own personal % chance of the scenario panning out, just to add a bit of flavour. Next to the team name is that team's possible routes to the playoffs. Please note that I've ignored the possibility of Gridiron Gang or The Brady Bunch tying...if this happens neither has a chance at playoffs, and Cash4Gould, IKNAN and Bear Necessities would be the only eligible teams for the wildcard.

The Hopefuls

1. The Dream Team 8-5: Division winner (99.9%) or wildcard (99.99999%)

- Coach Nathwani's team is on this list really in name value alone. They've achieved a playoff berth, they just need the games to happen on Sunday to confirm it. With one more win than any of the other contenders and a far superior point total, they are basically in.
- The only way they don't make playoffs is if they lose and are outscored by 2 of Cash4Gould, Bear Necessities and IKNAN. Those teams would  all need to win, and to outscore The Dream Team by 78, 123, and 85 respectively.

- So yeah, unless Viv benches all his players, he's made the playoffs. Just to add a tiny bit of spice, they're also playing Cash4Gould in the last week, which should be a good game.


2. Cash4Gould 7-6: Division winner (0.1%) or wildcard (60%)

- As mentioned above, Coach Gardner's chances of winning the division are slim to none, so I won't go into this.
- However, the wildcard is a distinct possibility. If Cash4Gould win and Bear Necessities and IKNAN lose, they make playoffs.
- If IKNAN and Bear Necessities win, Coach Gardner must win and maintain their point lead of 7 and 45 respectively over IKNAN and Bear Necessities, then they get the wildcard
- If they lose, they would need both IKNAN and Bear Necessities to lose, whilst also outscoring the winner of Gridiron Gang v The Brady Bunch (which would require them to outscore them by 86 or 44 respectively).

- So really, Cash4Gould just need to win and outscore IKNAN and Bear Necessities and their chances are good. As stated, they are playing The Dream Team, so it should be a competitive game.


3. Bear Necessities 7-6: Division winner (0.000001%) or wildcard (55%)

- Bear Necessities chances of winning the division are even slimmer than Cash4Gould's because they are so far behind in points. It's just not going to happen.
- The wildcard however is quite possible. A win for Bear Necessities and a loss for Cash4Gould and IKNAN would see Coach Stubbs Sr. returning to playoffs.
- If either or both of those teams win, Bear Necessities would have to win and out score Cash4Gould by 45 and IKNAN by 38.
- If Bear Necessities lose, they would need Cash4Gould and IKNAN to lose, then to outscore the winner of Gridiron Gang v The Brady Bunch by 131 or 89 respectively.

- So again, Bear Necessities needs to win first and foremost, and get some points to boot. They are helped by the softest match up of all these playoff hopefuls, they play The Tuckfards.


4. IKNAN 7-6: Wildcard (50%)
- With Patistan having won their division, Coach Sherwood's only hope is the wildcard, which they are firmly in the race for. If they win and Cash4Gould and Bear Necessities lose, they make the playoffs.
- If IKNAN lose, they need Cash4Gould and Bear Necessities to lose, whilst outscoring Cash 4 Gould by 7 and maintaining their 38 point lead over Bear Necessities. They would also need to outscore the winner of Gridiron Gang and The Brady Bunch by 93 points or 51 points respectively.

- Put simply, IKNAN just needs to win and outscore Cash4Gould by 7, that is their easiest route to the playoffs. They face the toughest match up of the lot however, the league leading Patistan.


T5. Gridiron Gang 6-7: Wildcard (30%)
- Due to ADRZ locking up the division this past week, Gridiron Gang can only achieve a wildcard. This is actually a simpler scenario, as Coach Stubbs Jr. just needs to win and for Cash4Gould, Bear Necessities and IKNAN to all lose. Gridiron Gang are leading the league in points, so they just need to maintain their point lead over the aforementioned (86, 131, 93).

- As I said, simple. Win and get some help is all Gridiron Gang need. They play The Brady Bunch in a show down for a chance at the playoffs.


T5. The Brady Bunch 6-7: Wildcard (30%)
- Coach Nunn is in the exact same boat as Gridiron Gang. They need to win and for Cash4Gould, Bear Necessities and IKNAN to all lose. Their point totals are not as good as Gridiron Gang's, but are substantially higher than the other playoff hopefuls, needing to maintain a lead of 44 over Cash 4 Gould, 89 over Bear Necessities, and 51 over IKNAN.

- Another simple one. They need to win and get some help in a division thriller against Gridiron Gang.


Summary
- The obvious choice is The Dream Team, they've made playoffs. Past that, it's really tough to call. I think it's fair to say if either IKNAN or Cash4Gould win it's a bit of an upset, so I'd say Bear Necessities probably have a good chance of getting the wildcard. However, if IKNAN or Cash4Gould win, one of them will be the wildcard team. In the unlikely event that all three of them lose (though in the league this year it wouldn't be too surprising), the wildcard team would be Gridiron Gang or The Brady Bunch. These two have both looked marvelous and average at times this year, so this should be a thrilling game. As always, stay tuned for the results on Sunday.

Power Rankings: Week 13

While my will to write these seems to be waning with every passing weeks (most likely due to my own team's misfortunes), I am determined to not miss an edition of the power rankings this season! And, begin!

Power Rankings

1. Patistan, 9-3 (1): The League's finest is one small step closer to 10 wins, and one giant leap closer to the playoffs. Sorry couldn't resist the word play, Coach Allen has actually achieved a playoff berth in only his second season, congratulations. What more can be said? They get to enjoy the next two weeks of fantasy now (a rare reward).

2. ADRZ, 7-5 (3): The continually perplexing case of ADRZ finds itself in second this week. This team is capable of brilliant performances and absolute stinkers. But to Coach Well's credit, they've had more of the former than the latter in recent weeks. They're a stones throw from the playoffs as it stands.

3. The Dream Team, 7-5 (4): The now fully established, definitely not under the radar Dream Team are flourishing with their bad luck now transferred to others. They came up with a huge division win last week, and find themselves one step closer to a return to the playoffs. While not bullet proof, they are very good.

4. IKNAN, 6-6 (2): I'm really not sure what to make of them. They are very similar to Burdettinators, albeit with significantly better luck. Last week was not a good week, and it's not the first like it, but they got the win and find themselves in prime position for a wildcard. Whether they can pull it off or not, we shall see.

5. Burdettinators, 5-7 (5): Boy. This team is 5th purely cause of the bad luck. Look, we know Coach Burdett has channeled my own ability to consistently pick the wrong players, but in a 12 team league that's just bad luck as opposed to bad judgement. They've been above average for them lately, and that might be enough to sneak it.

6. Forge Flyers, 5-7 (6): Forge Flyers has cooled a tad the last couple of weeks, but they've still posted over 100 points each outing so that's jut fine. But they didn't bring home the W, and it's put them on precarious footing when it comes to playoffs. They've got every chance to make it, but they're up against it. 

7. Cash4Gould, 6-6 (7): The Rookie coach has really had a nice resurgence in the last few weeks, and they are squarely in the running. It's no secret why, Aaron Rodgers has been fire, Elliot is a rookie sensation, and cooper is a beast. The holy trinity can fail at times, but as far as trinities go there are few better.

8. The Brady Bunch, 6-6 (9): The continuously hard to predict Brady Bunch continues to surprise. Like I say all the time, Brady gives the team the floor they need, and Coach Nunn relies on the rest to bring it home. That is absolutely not a given, but they've got a mean streak, and it could take them to the playoffs.

9. Gridiron Gang, 5-7 (8): This team just ran out of steam I think. They had a few bitter losses over the last two months, but at this point the team just looks a bit gassed. They have great options at many positions, but a glaring weakness at one, and that's what is letting them down right now. Maybe i could play receiver for Gridiron Gang...

10. Bear Necessities, 6-6 (10): Another team that just looks a bit gassed. I'm a crucial division game last week, Bear Necessities just weren't up to it, and it casts a large shadow over their playoff hopes. They are still in play for a playoff spot, but with the other competition it's a tall order.

11. Tom's Tyrants, 5-7 (11): You'll forgive me for perhaps speeding through these last few, because for the first time this season, the cutlery is coming out. While they can still achieve a playoff berth, Tom's Tyrants have not been good lately, and I can't see that changing enough to save their season. Stick a fork in them, they're done.

12. The Tuckfards, 5-7 (12): Another team in the same situation as above. This team does have the Shaman himself, but even Coach Merritt doesn't have enough power to save The Tuckfards season. Stick a fork in them, they're done.

2016: I hope you like 5 and 6

Welcome to a historic episode of the LOC Report, as it is the first where we will be doing a live stream! Commissioner Stubbs and Co Host Chris Leach are here to talk you through the incredibly tight LOC, taking a look at least week and a preview at next. Don't forget to comment and we'll read them out live!

Power Rankings: Week 12

As we near the close of another regular season, the playoff race looks to be the closest yet. No team has clinched a playoff spot, and no team has yet been eliminated. This is unprecedented for week 12 of the LOC season, and if you think any of this will be tidied up by next week, it won't, as 11 teams are 5-6 or 6-5.

Power Rankings

1. Patistan, 8-3 (1): And the streak has finally been stopped at 8 wins. Congrats to Coach Allen for even getting that far, but he had bye issues last week, not to mention he was playing a Gridiron Gang team that has a propensity for giant killing. Despite all that, they still scored 82 points. With this team back at full strength, playoffs still remain all but a formality. Interesting side note, if Patistan don't win their last two, it will be only the second time we haven't had a double digit win team.

2. IKNAN, 5-6 (3): Coach Sherwood flips places with his last week's opponent. This team continues to pump out solid performance after solid performance, and the wins are starting to follow. IKNAN have left it late, but they're certainly in a position to get a wildcard. They just need to manage a few more good weeks, and hope that their point totals will be high enough (it's not the first time they've missed playoffs because of that).

3. ADRZ, 6-5 (2): Coach Wells had a great opportunity to all but guarantee the division last week....and crumbled. A.J. Green going down makes last weeks game look far worse than it was, but it does handicap them a bit going forward. They'll get some key players back from a bye this week, and this should allow them to get back to their scoring ways.

4. The Dream Team, 6-5 (5): This team was unfortunate early on, but now they're coming out with clutch wins. Here's a stat for you, vs. everyone so far in the season, Coach Nathwani is a league high 74-47, yet they are only 6-5. That just shows you how good this team has been. Now on a 3 game win streak, with a pretty stacked starting lineup, they are poised to win the division and make their 4th playoff appearance.

5. Burdettinators, 5-6 (4): You'll recall me saying on multiple occassions that Coach Burdett should get to the playoffs on the basis of consistently scoring enough to win games when opponents falter. On this occassion, that's looking dicey. Another good week, another loss for Burdettinators. It's a shame, they've been really consistent, but there are a lot of teams with scoring potential in the LOC, and because of that they may fall just short.

6. Forge Flyers, 5-6 (6): If I told Coach Leach 101 points would be a down week a month ago he'd have laughed in my face. But Forge Flyers have been great recently, and were somewhat unfortunate to lose last week. The Tennessee Titans are the holy trinity of their team, and they have a few other good contributors. They remain firmly in the playoff race, which is something I haven't said about them since 2011.

7. Cash4Gould, 5-6 (T7): I said on the podcast last week that Coach Gardner's side is far better than their usual 12th ranking on the playoffs. Now you see why. This team has quietly been coming on strong for weeks now, and it culminated with 139 points last week. After losing 5 games straight they looked done, but credit to this team they've rebounded and now have a chance at playoffs.

8. Gridiron Gang, 5-6 (T7): Could we see a return of the cardiac kids? We'll have to wait and see, but it's about time Coach Stubbs Jr. broke his 5 game loss streak. And in typical Gridiron Gang fashion, they did it against the league's best team. This team doesn't look as strong as it did early on, but they are still highly capable of scoring points, and are in a good place to push for playoffs.

9. The Brady Bunch, 5-6 (T7): Coach Nunn's side has levelled off a bit of late, and that's mainly due to Ajayi not being quite as explosive. Still, they have a lot of good pieces, and as long as Brady is at the helm, #BradyOrBust will keep them in every single game. They are in a fight for the division and the wildcard, so this coach will have to be on his game to get them to the promised land.

10. Bear Necessities, 6-5 (T7): I feel bad for the next few here, but I'm not copping out and doing tied positions twice in two weeks. Bear Necessities have rebounded extremely well late in the season, but they are only second in their division. This team isn't the steroid laden roster of the first two weeks of the season, but they are still good, and have every chance to make the playoffs.

11. Tom's Tyrants. 5-6 (T7): In very un-Coach Barnes like fashion, this team has slowed down the last couple of weeks. Usually we see them get better and better the closer we get to the playoffs. It's a decent roster, but not a great one, and that's what is different about this Tom's Tyrants team compared to years past. While I can absolutely see them turning it around, as has been the case most of the season, the team is just underperforming right now.

12. The Tuckfards, 5-6 (T7): We should all appreciate The Tuckfards games this season, because with the continued rumours of Coach Merritt's retirement, we don't know how many we're going to get. Sure, if you're playing against him it's frustrating as hell (especially if you're Coach Burdett), but really you do have to admire what he's able to do. Is their enough magic left in Phil's tank to achieve another playoff appearance?

Power Rankings: Week 11

We're vaulting towards the playoffs now, and the league is really starting to heat up. It's such a tight race in the LOC right now, and we're almost assured of another season going down to the wire, so as such many teams are in fact tied in the rankings this week. Power up.

Power Rankings:

1. Patistan, 8-2 (1): The reigning king of the power rankings remains so for another week, but they weren't their usual explosive selves last week. That being said, they still had a good week, and look poised to continue their success. They are all but assured of a playoff spot now, in what has been a tremendous season so far.

2. ADRZ, 6-4 (3): They looked a bit wobbly last week, but the reigning champs managed to pull out another nice score. With another win, they're now in primse position to win the divsion after a stunning turnaround. ADRZ are well on their way to having a shot at retaining the title.

3. IKNAN, 4-6 (4): It just has not been IKNAN's season when you talk about the W column. They've been so unforuntate, nearly every week, having scored a decent amount of points yet losing again and again. The team is very good, and that came through in swathes last week. They are leaving it very late, but if this team can conitnue their form they definitely still have hope for playoffs.

4. Burdettinators, 5-5 (2): The worst week of the season for Burdettinators so far. Which is quite surprising, as they're coming off their two best weeks of the season. But that's the fickleness of fantasy for you. They're still a really consistent team, but continuous headaches with the roster are not enabling the coach to put out the best side every week. They'll need to rally the troops to achieve a playoff berth.

5. The Dream Team, 5-5 (8): The Dream Team's fortunes seem to have finally turned, and they are in a very good position to be able to achieve a playoff spot. Early in the season it looked like they wouldn't have a shot at playoffs, but a weak division has really played into their hand and they look set to win the division if they can keep up their good form for a few more weeks.

6. Forge Flyers, 5-5 (9): The Tennessee eTitans have been hot the last few weeks, and this has led them to good standing in the playoff hunt. Jeff Fisher (aka Coach Leach's spirit animal) would be proud of what this team has managlyed to do so far. But with Forge Flyers current run of form, they definitely have the potential to rise above the 7-9 bulls@#!

T7. Gridiron Gang, 4-6 (5): Boy, what happened to this team? 1 of 3 teams to go over 1000 points and they find themselves at 4-6. Despite the win loss record, it has been a really good season for Gridiron Gang. This team has displayed some late season theatrics and some giant killing in years gone by, so don't count them out just yet.

T7. The Brady Bunch, 5-5 (6): If Jeff Fisher is Coach Leach's spirit animal, then I think it's only fair to say Sean Payton is Coach Nunn's. This team has the ability to boom or bust on any given week, but having that star QB at the helm at least gives this team a stable floor. The inconsistency is what will probably let them down through the stretch, but if they string a few wins together they've definitely got a shot at playoffs.

T7. Tom's Tyrants, 5-5 (7): After having a spectacular rennaissance this team cooled off a bit last week. But they're still at 5-5, the team is on the up and up, and Coach Barnes has a penchant for getting his team to play well down the stretch. This playoff race is hyper competitive, but with key players performing and a host of good additions they're in it as much as anyone else.

T7. The Tuckfards, 4-6 (10): While some may say this team is lucky to be tied with the others, I think it's only fair. We all know the roster looks like last nights Indian food combined with barf and fish entrails, but Coach Merritt is completely able to generate fantasy points from that. The coach and the coach alone is keeping them in the playoff race at this point.

T7. Bear Necessities, 5-5 (11): Bear Necessities have been much improved from their mid-season lull, and as I said at the time that was largely all due to the players they were missing through injury. Now all healthy, this team is back to playing its best fantasy football, and in a wide open Winchester division the division can be theirs if they want it.

T7. Cash4Gould, 4-6 (12): Just when you think you've got the Winchester division figured out, Coach Gardner decides to question everything you know about life. But like I said on the podcast, Cash4Gould being bottom was no indictment of their team's ability to perform, just on the balance of things they aren't as well set up as other teams. But as last week showed they are entirely capable of scoring.

2016: Podcast on the fly

Welcome to this very much ad-libbed episode of the LOC Report! Commissioner Stubbs has had a hectic week, but he was not going to let you loyal listeners down and deprive you of one of the worlds greatest treasures, Co-Host Chris Leach's fantasy commentary. Tune in for the week 10 recap and week 11 preview.

2016: Make the LOC Great Again

In a week where we saw the United States elect Donald Trump, we had LOC fantasy going on...and considering that, we're here to do everything possible to take your mind off of that. Join Co Host Chris Leach and The Commissioner to catch up on last weeks happenings and an eye on week 10.

Power Rankings: Week 10

It's that time of the week again where I drink multiple glasses of whisky to help me through writing the power rankings. Gaps are starting to appear in the standings, and the same can be said of the Power Rankings. While it's still too early to call anyone a slam dunk or stick a fork in them, we are certainly getting close. Here we go.

Power Rankings

1. Patistan, 7-2 (1): Coach Allen's team is officially no longer a sleeper, but a fully fledged contender. Patistan just seems to get stronger every week, putting up one of the highest point totals so far this season last week. At 7-2, Patistan is almost assured of a playoff spot at this point. They've just got to focus on staying strong now.

2. Burdettinators, 5-4 (4): Burdettinators posted their highest scoring total of the year last week, but were outscored and lost the game. It's encouraging though, as we've yet to see Burdettinators show explosiveness. This teams prospects are great, they should be able to keep it going. However, to get a playoff berth its looking increasingly more likely they'll have to do it via the wildcard.

3. ADRZ, 6-3 (6): The champs team has finally returned to form. After a very slow start, ADRZ has been really good ever since. The big names on the roster have regained their form and alleviated any concerns, while they've picked up some really nice pieces along the way to solidify the team. With a 2 game lead in the division, they're looking a good bet to return to the playoffs.

4. IKNAN, 3-6 (3): Hard to believe an IKNAN side that has been so good is 3-6. You really have to feel for Coach Sherwood, this team has done exceedingly well, especially with all the injuries they've had to withstand, but they just keep getting outscored. At this point in the season, it would be very hard for IKNAN to come back and get a playoff spot - but not impossible.

5. Gridiron Gang, 4-5 (2): My oh my, what happened? In Gridiron Gangs defense, 3 of their last 4 losses they had good weeks but got out scored. Last week was not one of those weeks. Looking like an early season power house, Coach Stubbs Jr's side have hit a number of speed bumps. However, they've still got a lot of good pieces and could turn it around.

6. The Brady Bunch, 4-5 (5): #BradyOrBust is just fine....when you have Tom Brady on your team. Alas, it was the Patriots bye last week, so it surprises no one that Coach Nunn's team struggled. He will return this week to reignite the roster and they'll be back to their high floor high upside selves. This team could be a force down the stretch.

7. Tom's Tyrants, 5-4 (7): What did I say early on? Go back and read the power rankings from the start of the season. Coach Barnes just has a gift for turning seasons around. I'm not going to give him credit though. We all thought the roster was good coming into the season, it just took them a month or so to come through on that. Some key acquisitions have really helped them though.

8. The Dream Team, 4-5 (8): Another team that has recovered nicely from a poor start. Coach Nathwani has shaken the monkey off his back (or perhaps more aptly, bribed it to go and sit on someone else's). They've scored a lot, but they've had even more scored against them. However, the division is soft, and they could still come out as the winner.

9. Forge Flyers, 4-5 (10): You love to see a performance like that by Coach Leach, who has now achieved his highest win total since 2013. While Forge Flyers won't have a week like they just did every week, they are a very consistent side, and they are always in with a shout of winning a game if their opponent stumbles. They have an outside chance at a playoff spot.

10. The Tuckfards, 4-5 (9): The Tuckfards came crashing back down to Earth last week. This is the part where you expect me to rip into Coach Merritt and say the team sucks right? Well, I'm not going to do that. This team is definitely a rag tag bunch, heck Phil would probably be the first person to say that. But as far as rag tag bunches go, they're probably a "9 pushing 10".

11. Bear Necessities, 5-4 (11): A nice week last week for a Bear Necessities side that is finally rounding back into good health. I think the early season explosiveness of this team has gone away (which you expect after injuries), but what's left is a solid roster that should be consistent if nothing else. They could move up in the next few weeks and have a great shot at playoffs.

12. Cash4Gould, 3-6 (12): Another nice week from Coach Gardner last week where they just got outscored. And it's a great shame, because the great weeks are going to be few and far between. They rely on a few players to get their points, if that doesn't happen, they're not scoring. Fortunately for them, those players are living up to expectation at the moment.

2016: LOC Coaches Have 9 Lives

The LOC Report has returned from its brief one week absence to bring you another award winning episode! As we enter week 9, every LOC coach still looks like they have a chance to make the playoffs, but what about week 8 and week 9 you ask? Co host Chris Leach and the Commissioner are here to tell you.

Power Rankings: Week 9

Here we are again, and we're over half way through the season now. This is shaping up to be yet another hyper competitive season, with nearly every team looking as likely a bet to make the playoffs as to miss out on them. And truth be told, the power rankings really aren't much of a different story. But, rankings must be made!

Power Rankings

1. Patistan, 6-2 (3): Much the same as Coach Nathwani's hard luck pushed him down, Coach Allen's stunning form has lifted him to the top. The team is very good, but that wasn't enough to make them climb above the rest. The fact they've won a stunning 6 games in a row and now top the league however is. In such a tight league, having these extra games will go a long way.

2. Gridiron Gang, 4-4 (1): This team has been plagued by bad luck the last 3 weeks, much like The Dream Team were. Despite posting over 100 points every week, they've lost every game. Coupled with the fact that key players are flailing a bit, the injuries are piling up, Gridiron Gang is on shaky ground. However, Coach N. Stubbs still keeps the impressive streak of scoring 90+ points every game alive.

3. IKNAN, 3-5 (2): Yeah, Coach Sherwood lost last week and sits at 3-5, but they're still definitely one of the better teams in the LOC. It's quite telling of just how close the league is this year that a team so high in the rankings is joint last. While they can't be counting on Charles returning anymore, they're still in good stead for the rest of the season.

4. Burdettinators, 5-3 (4): The uber consistent Burdettinators picked up their first win in couple of weeks last week. Like I've been saying all season long, you score that amount of points consistently, wins are going to come your way. At 5-3, providing they can keep up the form, it's very hard to bet against them for the playoffs. Only a run of bad luck would make that happen.

5. The Brady Bunch, 4-4 (5): #BradyOrBust. I don't need to say anymore, but I probably should. Brady gives this team such a nice floor that they only need a few other performers each week to give them the win. Couple this with the fact they were in complete bye week hell last week it makes the win all the more impressive. This team is a real contender.

6. ADRZ, 5-3 (10): I'll be happy to hold my hands up and say that moving ADRZ back down was a mistake. After posting 62 points in Week 6 and looking like they'd return to early season form, they just kept on trucking. The current champs are back people, and they've taken the lead in their division. This team looks to be here for the long haul.

7. Tom's Tyrants, 4-4 (7): Another decent week for Tom's Tyrants sees them climb back to .500. Coach Barnes really was having a lot of trouble on his hands, but he stayed the course and his team has emerged from it. They're very much in the mold of Burdettinators, not likely to light up the score board, but hey they're getting the W's so who can argue with that?

8. The Dream Team, 3-5 (6): I really don't know what to make of Coach Nathwani's side this season. Every time I think they're a great team, they just seem to not have things go their way. It's clear that it's just not his year, but despite that they still remain competitive and still are firmly in the playoff race. But judging on their luck so far they'd be hard pressed to make it come Week 15.

9. The Tuckfards, 4-4 (9): We really do have to commend Coach Merritt for what he has been able to do this season. He has completely reversed his fortunes in what looked like a really bleak year. I mean, he's starting complete trash every week, but if you go rooting through bins eventually you'll find something worthwhile, and he's got lots of that on his team. Well done.

10. Forge Flyers, 3-5 (8): Forge Flyers slide down is less about this side themselves, and more about the ascendancy of other teams. They remain just as competitive as they have been since the early season injuries, but with the resurgence of several teams that sees them a peg behind most. They'll continue to have decent weeks, but they'd do well to achieve a playoff berth.

11. Bear Necessities, 4-4 (11): This team is getting healthy and it really is showing in the score sheets. However, they lack any star power to push them up to the next level to really be able to compete. That being said, a waiver add here or there could completely change the outlook of this team, so don't count them out just yet.

12. Cash4Gould, 3-5 (12): This team actually had a good week last week, they were just outscored. But there have been a lot of times when Coach Gardner's team has not looked good this season. They can definitely win games and score points, it's just the opposite of consistent or reliable. In a relatively weak division they might be able to sneak it, but the rookie coach is certainly up against it.

Power Rankings: Week 8

Yet another confusing and incredible week of LOC fantasy. The top two teams on the power rankings last week both lost, while the bottom two teams both won. It just goes to show that the LOC is all over the place at the moment, and anyone can truly beat anyone. But, if you like to hedge, see below for the teams you should hedge your bets on.

Power Rankings

1. Gridiron Gang, 4-3 (2): Despite losing 2 in a row, Coach Stubbs Jr's side is still among the best in the league. In both the losses they suffered they went over 100 points, so it was not for a lack of scoring. While things are looking a bit more wobbly than they were, it's hard to argue with the points as they've yet to dip below 90 points.

2. IKNAN, 3-4 (1): Speaking of wobbly, Coach Sherwood didn't have the best go of it after picking up a momentous win the week before. I'm really not sure what to make of this team. They certainly have the ability to go off, have a decent week, or put up a stinker on any given week. There are few teams with as much range as this one, but my gut feel says they're good.

3. Patistan, 5-2 (4): So entering week 3, did anyone predict Coach Allen would be leading the league come week 8? I'm going to presume no one's hands are raised. On the face of it it's a tremendous turn around, but in all honesty we expected the leap after 2 years in the game and a solid draft. This team looks strong, and the Portsmouth division might not be able to keep up.

4. Burdettinators, 4-3 (3): The uber consistent Coach Burdett team dipped below 90 points for the second time last week (89 and 88, so only just). As has been the case with the team all season, they lack upside. They've topped 100 just once. Still, you get about 90-100 points week in week out you are going to win some games. My only worry is can they win enough to turn it into a playoff berth?

5. The Brady Bunch, 3-4 (5): So if IKNAN has range, Coach Nunn's team is just full blown all over the place. On a given week if this team got 60 or 125 no one would bat an eye lid. That's just where they are right now, with Brady at the helm and a corps of volatile players, this team can essentially contend in any game - but there will be down weeks.

6. The Dream Team, 3-4 (6): Alright, Coach Nathwani has officially turned it around, well done. I say well done, his team has pretty much been as good as it has all season, he's just finally getting the W's that come with it. This team does probably deserve to be higher on the list, and if they have another good week they certainly can't stay this low.

7. Tom's Tyrants, 3-4 (10): Talk about rebounds, Coach Barnes has finally got his guys jacked and they're putting up some points. They've added some key free agents that have really bolstered the side and allowed them to go to the next level (like we all expect a two time champion to do). While it's too early to tell if this resurgence will be sustainable, they're definitely trending in the right direction.

8. Forge Flyers, 3-4 (8): Unfortunately, Coach Leach has channeled his inner Jeff Fisher and got his 60th all time loss - the only team with 60 losses in the league. But last week wasn't down to them, they had a good week. In all honesty, they have a lot of good weeks, just not any great ones. Wins will come if they maintain, but they'll struggle to stop the 7-7 bulls#!@.

9. The Tuckfards, 3-4 (9): This team is quite similar to Forge Flyers in all honesty. Well, it's much more rag tag and uglier than Forge Flyers, but the end result is similar anyway. Coach Merritt deserves credit for getting this team into contention every week, but like Forge Flyers their upside is decidedly capped.

10. ADRZ, 4-3 (11): Coach Wells rebounds from a bad week nicely and picks up a win. It's tough to call this team at the moment. They're relying on big performances from unlikely sources to get them their points, and that strategy can't last forever. I hate to repeat myself, but they're in the same boat as The Tuckfards and Forge Flyers.

11. Bear Necessities, 4-3 (12): Coach Stubbs Sr. has managed to pick up 2 on the trot against all the odds. These wins could prove crucial in their season long quest, as they're getting healthier and could get pretty close to their early season form again. But I'll need to see that before I believe it as this team has been stuck in the mud for a month now.

12. Cash4Gould, 3-4 (7): I kept them in mid-table for as long as I could, but much like the New York Jets and Ryan Fitzpatrick, I've just lost faith in him. Well, not so much him as his team, but you get what I mean. They've dropped two in a row and the team has more holes than Swiss cheese. Give them the benefit of the doubt, they were without Elliot last week, but they'll have to fight tooth and nail in every game.

2016: Middle Class FTW

No, the title of this episode isn't an indication of what teams make up the league, instead a good summary for what is nearly the mid point of the LOC regular season, and also for how the league looks at the moment. Everything is tight in the middle, with teams being between 2-4 and 4-2. Co-Host Chris Leach the Commissioner join forces to make sense of it all.

Power Rankings: Week 7

As we reach the midway point of the LOC regular season, you would think that an early semblance of a playoff picture would be appearing. If you do, then you are horribly mistaken. The LOC has turned upside down, sideways and inside out in the last few weeks, and the result is an ever more difficult power rankings.

Power Rankings

1. IKNAN, 3-3 (2): The impressive weeks continue for Coach Sherwood side. Now at full strength, the idiot that won't die tour is in full swing and he's out for blood. One of the deeper rosters in the league combined with one of the best starting lineups is always a good position to be in. The only thing holding this team back is if the coach remembers to change the team.

2. Gridiron Gang, 4-2 (1): See I told you, I'd put myself to the top and screw myself. Joking aside, Gridiron Gang has been unbelievably consistent thus far, and even in a loss they still posted over 100 points and would have beaten 9 other teams. They just so happened to come against a team they always struggle against. This team still has a lot going on and should bounce back.

3. Burdettinators, 4-2 (4): The ultra-consistent team probably should have been this high already but it took time to we weed the other pretenders out. Even though they did indeed lose last week (The Dream Team deserved to win a game like that to be fair), Burdettinators still posted a good score. If they can post scores in that region like they've done all season, the wins will come.

4. Patistan, 4-2 (5): Don't look now but Patistan is white hot and has run 4 in a row. Last week was some what of a down week with an eh score (and they were very fortunate to win in what has to be the closest victory of LOC history), but this team has been far better than the one we saw through the first 2 weeks. The Portsmouth division is shaping up to be quite interesting.

5. The Brady Bunch, 2-4 (3): So maybe I got a little bit carried away with the whole #BradyOrBust thing...but I'm not backing off it, because Brady looks like he's out to embarrass the rest of the league. The rest of The Brady Bunch however are hit and miss at best. That hit potential plus Brady is enough for me to believe they can contend.

6. The Dream Team, 2-4 (6): Hooray! Rejoice, Coach Nathwani finally wins a game he deserved to win. Joking aside, The Dream Team is only this low purely cause of the horrendous bad luck they've had to this point. The monkey on their back has loosened its grip this week, but I'll need to see another win or two before it's fully shaken off.

7. Cash4Gould, 3-3 (7): Look, we know what this team is by this point, and barring an injury happening to them that won't change. It's a boom or bust team that will either surprise or disappoint on a weekly basis. In the current state of the LOC, that's not actually a bad position to be in. But regardless, that lack of consistency doesn't allow them to climb any higher.

8. Forge Flyers, 3-3 (8): On the one hand, you have to feel for the bitter loss Coach Leach has just had to swallow. On the other...I'm sure they're quite happy to even be in a position to compete in a game like that based on their last couple of seasons. They're an ultra consistent team in the Burdettinators mold but lack the upside, so they'll continue to compete for sure.

9. The Tuckfards, 3-3 (10): Coach Merritt's change from sacrificing chickens to goats has done wonders for his fantasy team as he has now won 3 in a row. Cthulu has blessed this team with new life, largely helped by West becoming a starting RB, Gronk returning, and a few other bits and bobs. While I still doubt the season long prospects, there's no denying they're flying high right now.

10. Tom's Tyrants, 2-4 (11): There is life at TTY HQ. Mainly because Lamar Miller finally pulled his finger out, and Luck had the type of game he should but barely has all season. Be that as it may, on paper we have always thought this team was good, but poor play and bad luck has derailed them thus far. If this even changes a bit this could completely change the outlook of Tom's Tyrants.

11. ADRZ, 3-3 (8): Aaaaand back to the ADRZ we all know and love. After a few really good weeks Coach Well's team just fell off the map last week as the team forget they had a game on Sunday. I don't think their performances are going to be this bad every week, but it does go to show that the early season struggles are far from dead and buried.

12. Bear Necessities, 3-3 (12): They got a win you say, they stopped the 3 game slide you say. Well I say this team won with 80 points against one of the few teams they could have actually beaten. I'm not being harsh, just stating facts. However, we could see a resurgence on the horizon for Coach Stubbs Sr. as he will get Diggs and Moncrief back soon which would be huge for them.

EDOTLOCCA's Corner: 2016.6 - Week 6

Good evening everybody! Or just adjust that greeting to suit whatever time of day you are reading, I cannot please everyone. As always, it has been an exciting week in the LOC, but we have an extra twist now with the suicide pool which has really hit full stride. Well, for most of us, 25% of the league has of course already crashed out. This news, whilst saddening for the coaches (failures) in question, is absolutely hilarious and makes me enjoy the suicide pool even more! But then, I can’t really laugh with the Tyrants dead in the water, swimming lessons are becoming an urgent requirement and if that fails, a defibrillator. There’s always this week, speaking of which…

Coaches Award

There were some close games this week! Very close! But were there any really big calls that made people win? Not so sure. However, there is one coach who has been on the radar for a while now and been unlucky not to win this award to date. Well, the wait is finally over, congratulations to Coach Stubbs Jr., highest scorer, biggest winner on the week and leading the league. But, the really key, more of his classic spot start heroes, Jordan Howard looks like a 1st round pick! This Gridiron Gang team is the one we have been due a while, look out.
Honourable mentions: Coach Leach and Coach Allen, you both won really tight games and deserve a mention. Well, here, have this honourable mention.

Wooden Spoon

Tough to award this one this week, lots of good coaching calls. But, if I had to pick, which I do, there was one call which stuck out to me. It was a bold decision and riding the hot hand is usually a good call, but when you lose by 1.02 points and you have you 3rd pick WR1 on the bench with a score that could have won it for you, ouch. Commiserations Coach Sherwood.

Bold predictions

Wrong, wrong, wrong, kind of half right, wrong and pretty close. Basically another week of 0-6 which leaves me a truly fantastic 1-23 on the season. But, lacking the cultural background or intellect to understand the concept of ‘flogging a dead horse’, I shall continue making bold predictions with vigour and enthusiasm! Here we go!

Patistan vs. Forge Flyers: Brian Hoyer a starting fantasy QB, what exciting times we live in people! My bets are he can’t keep up with a thoroughly pissed off Cam Newton, but he’ll give it a go as the two combine for 65 points.

IKNAN vs. Gridiron Gang: I am not sure if I have ever predicted a kicker-off before, so why the hell not. Two of the most reliable (and hardest to spell) kickers in the league put 15 points up apiece.

Bear Necessities vs. ADRZ: Le’Veon Bell is back, but he hasn’t broken out yet, that changes this week unfortunately for ADRZ, 180 yards and 2 TDs.

The Tuckfards vs. The (Brady??) Bunch: In a warmup for when they faceoff the following week, Big Ben and Brady put on an air show, 4 TDs each, but 3 of Brady’s go to Gronk… bittersweet.

The Dream Team vs. Burdettinators: Greg Olsen is going nuts already and if he gets Cam back a 25 point fantasy game is on the cards.

Tom’s Tyrants vs. Cash4Gould: Lamar Miller gets his first TD of the season (for reasoning see: Colts), but Elliott doubles anything the Texan musters.

And there you have it people, another fresh set of predictions, 1 part courage, 3 parts sheer optimism, no doubt a recipe for success! Looking forwards to the week ahead as always, onwards we go! Until next time.

2016: 2009 Flashback!

With Gridiron Gang and Burdettinators flying high, you'd be forgiven for thinking you'd time traveled back to 2009 (and just in case you have, please tell me all the good fantasy players from then until now, thanks). But assuming you haven't traveled back in time, you can enjoy the week 5 recap and week 6 preview with your favourite podcast hosts, The Commissioner and Chris Leach.

Power Rankings: Week 6

Were in the full swing of what is another quagmire of an LOC season, but you're loving every second of it....right? Well anyway, with bye weeks coming hard and fast and half the league ravaged by injury, power is all over the place in the league. Where is it this week I wonder?

Power Rankings

1. Gridiron Gang, 4-1 (3): I've been reluctant to do it because I don't want to curse myself and appear to show bias...but I feel you can understand why I can no longer keep Gridiron Gang out of first spot. The highest scoring team, the only team yet to drop below 90 points in a game, and at 4-1. They've had a tremendous start to the year (cue face plant).

2. IKNAN, 2-3 (2): They haven't had quite as an explosive start as the top team, but make no mistake they've been essentially as consistent. This is a team playing without its second round pick. Expect good things going forward for IKNAN and their record to improve, despite another disappointing loss.

3. The Brady Bunch, 2-3 (7): You know why this team is hear. Now that the team name has changed, you know this team has the greatest player of all time in their line up. Call me a homer all you want, but Gridiron Gang showed how effective #BradyOrBust could be. It helps Coach Nunn has a good roster too.

4. Burdettinators, 4-1 (4): Up until this week, they were the only other team not to dip below 90 points. While it certainly hasn't been an exciting start to the season for Coach Burdett, the remarkable consistency is why they're sat at 4-1, and if they can keep it up it'll carry them to the playoffs.

5. Patistan, 3-2 (5): As I've been saying for a couple of weeks now, Coach Allen's squad is on the up and up. The roster has finally found firm ground and now they can get to work. While the slow start could make things tricky, they're poised for success here on out.

6. The Dream Team, 1-4 (1): So this is a pretty big drop for Coach Nathwani after one week that was slightly sub par. But my reasoning for it is this. Although it's been entirely random and unlucky that they only have 1 win, sometimes this is just how seasons go. They'll have to shake the monkey off their back soon.

7. Cash4Gould, 3-2 (10): Think of Coach Gardner's side as TBB lite. The rookie coach is having a tremendous season, and they had a great week despite losing. They are going to continue to be volatile, and may make some mistakes in the learning process, but all things considered should have a good year.

8. ADRZ, 3-2 (11): So I've done the equivalent of poking a hornets nest with a stick, only for them to all fly out and go nuts. Sorry ADRZ opponents. Coach Well's team has looked completely different the last through weeks, and they'll move up quickly if they can keep it up.

9. Forge Flyers, 3-2 (9): Coach Leach's team looks solid-not-spectacular through 5 weeks of the season, but I think they'll be more than happy with that after the last few years. Just because they're 9th don't think they're a bad team. They can contend with most any team, but the injuries have crippled their upside.

10. The Tuckfards, 2-3 (12): I guess my comments on the podcast got Coach Merritt a bit jacked up. Big Ben has been a large reason for The Tuckfard's resurgence, but hey, if the shoe fits? Let's see if the winningest coach in the LOC can channel his magic again.

11. Tom's Tyrants, 1-4 (8): This team is just waiting until we all least expect it to come out firing. But in the mean time, they're having a tough go of it of late. Under performers and players not coming together as a team has really held back Coach Barnes's team so far, but that could easily change.

12. Bear Necessities, 2-3 (6): As Coach Stubbs Sr saw Bennett put up a third TD for his bench he said "it's just not my year". While I don't think it's all over, I would tend to agree. I'm not sure we've ever seen a team look so different in such a short space of time. But until otherwise, they're rooted.

EDOTLOCCA's Corner: 2016.5 - Week 5

Hello! I’ve returned! Some of you may have wondered where exactly it is that I went. Well, I might have been training in the skills of fantasy football writing with Tibetan monks… or I might have forgotten, like completely forgotten. But that is the past, everyone knows that Week 4 is the most boring week anyway, so let us hit Week 5 with a bang! Things are starting to heat up here in the LOC, no one is unbeaten, no one is… err… all-beaten and, at this early stage, it looks like we are shaping up for the closest LOC year yet. Buckle up boys.

Coaches Award

Big decisions is how coaches make this section of the article. Winning close games is how coaches make this section of the articles. If you told Coach Leach he would be starting a backup RB and a former Pro Bowl MVP by Week 4 at the start of the season, I imagine he would have been unhappy, but they just bought him a statement win. Plus, it always looks better when you do it on Monday night, well played indeed!
Honourable mention: Coach Merritt has taken a rag tag group and somehow squeaked a win out of them, whilst playing against a receiver that put up 300 yards, impressive stuff.

Wooden Spoon

This team looked unstoppable in the first two weeks, but since then they have looked thoroughly stopped. I am not going as far as to say the wheels have come off, but there are still lots of strong players in this team, but losing to a team that only put up 75 points doesn’t look too great. Coach Stubbs Sr. will turn it around, no doubts there.

Bold predictions

I got one! Hook line and sinker! We are 1-17 and cooking on gas people! Predicting Matt Ryan to more than triple Ryan Fitzpatrick’s score did become easier when Fitz put up -2.28 points of course, at least someone won from that horror show, well me and Marcus Peters of course. And now, we shall ride this wave of success into Week 5:

IKNAN vs. Forge Flyers: What a draft bargain Will Fuller has been, serious value pick there, Minnesota are too good though, he spends his game on the bench watching the former Pro Bowl MVP score two TDs.

Cash4Gould vs. Gridiron Gang: The rookie stands alone at the top after Week 5, the only team on 4-1, he still only makes it to spot 8 on the power rankings however.

The Dream Team vs. ADRZ: A close one goes The Dream Team’s way for once! Olsen steals it late Monday night, resulting in a 5 point win.

Patistan vs. The Bunch: Coach Nunn forgets to change his team name and logo back to The Brady Bunch – and forgets to play Brady. More Pick Sixpatrick to come!

Bear Necessities vs. Burdettinators: Starting Prescott, Sproles and White, anyone see that one coming? The three combine for a pitiful 22 points and Terrelle Pryor makes the start next week.

Tom’s Tyrants vs. The Tuckfards: A first and second round RB combo get outscored by a late rounder and waiver wire addition… yeah this one hurts.

And there you have it, your Bold Predictions for the week, fresh out the oven and now resting on the window sill, a cartoon-esque waft attracting all the eager LOC coaches. Well, get ‘em while their hot lads! See you next week! (Unless I forget again…..).

2016: It's opposite week

Welcome back budding LOC listeners! Commissioner Leach is joined by the Co-Host Naithan Stubbs to delve in all the goings on in the world of the LOC...and if you didn't guess by the previous sentence, it is in fact opposite week as the LOC was turned on its head a little bit last week. Listen up to find out why.

Power Rankings: Week 5

Well it was clearly opposite week in the LOC last week, as everything (near enough) has been flipped on its head! It was another crazy week, challenging everything we thought we knew. But no fear, the power rankings are here to....speculate wildly on the power...bring it on!

Power Rankings

1. The Dream Team, 1-3 (4): I mean, I'm kinda speechless with what has happened to Coach Nathwani's team. They've played great through 4 weeks, arguably looking like the strongest team in the league, yet they're getting snaked and only have 1 win. The wins will come (you'd like to think).

2. IKNAN, 2-2 (2): Last week was by no means a pretty week for IKNAN, but I think this was just one of those down weeks. They have far too many good players in the starting lineup and the bench to put scores like that up consistently, so they'll rebound in a big way.

3. Gridiron Gang, 3-1 (3): And so the LOC's last unbeaten side falls. But Coach Stubbs Jr. won't be too concerned as his side still had a decent day at the office. Much like IKNAN, the roster is pretty deep from top to bottom (albeit with a couple of injuries) and they should continue to have success.

4. Burdettinators, 3-1 (5): For what Burdettinators lack in being spectacular, they make up for by being consistent. They haven't blown the league away through 4 weeks, but they have been very good. A strong roster with players that still haven't properly popped can only mean good things going forward. They'll just have to watch out for rogue kicking nets.

5. Patistan, 2-2 (8): After a very slow start to the year, Patistan has rebounded in a nice way. They might not light the world on fire every week, but they're looking like a good consistent side. The Coach who everyone put their money on for a sophomore leap looks like to come through on his potential.

6. Bear Necessities, 2-2 (1): Quite the opposite of Patistan, Coach Stubbs Sr. got out to an uncharacteristically good start, but has now faltered quite significantly in the last 2 weeks. And it's easy to see why, Forte is injured, players are under performing, and the prospects of this side look decidedly dimmer than a couple weeks prior.

7. The Bunch, 2-2 (7): I think we know what we're going to get from Coach Nunn at this point in time. They're a boom or bust side that will either have a great week or a bad one. However, they do have Tom Brady returning, and that alone could easily propel this team up the rankings.

8. Tom's Tyrants, 1-3 (6): At risk of starting the incredible run Coach Barnes always starts after I say this...it might be time to worry in Tyrant Town. On paper this team is great, but for one reason or another, things just haven't gone their way this season, and sometimes that's just how it goes. Watch them win 10 straight now...

9. Forge Flyers, 2-2 (10): A very good week for Forge Flyers brought them a win over a team they typically struggle against. The team has some good players at its disposal, and DeMarco Murray's resurgence has certainly helped. To this point though, consistency has evaded them and that's why they're at 9.

10. Cash4Gould, 3-1 (9): Cash4Gould is surprisingly leading their division in Week 4, something no one probably would have called entering the season. They did have a fortunate victory last week, and they're not going to win many like that. With Bye weeks now here, this team could struggle mightily, as that is usually where we see Rookie Coaches falter.

11. ADRZ, 1-3 (11): ADRZ followed up a win in Week 3 with another one in Week 4, and this one was impressive. As I've said all along, on paper this team has some great names, but the worry has been their consistency and the issues surrounding them. Last week, all that melted away. Will the heat keep them away, or will the cold solidify those issues?

12. The Tuckfards, 1-3 (12): We've been prodding The Tuckfards with a stick for 3 weeks to see if they were still alive and they finally did something. Their side was propped up massively by 2 players, but this is a quintessential Coach Merritt performance. Is it possible we're seeing a return of the winningest coach in the LOC?

Power Rankings: Week 4

Hard to believe after this week we'll already be a quarter of the way through the LOC season! But as we truck into Week 4, the LOC is developing its world renowned hot mess status where the power is blended up every week. How has it been blended this week? Read to find out.

Power Rankings

1. Bear Necessities, 2-1 (1): Yowzers. The best team in the LOC through 2 weeks looked like a completely different side in Week 3. 1 TD was scored across the whole team, on a week where everyone just decided to go on holiday at the same time. Better weeks are ahead, and I think this is a blip.

2. IKNAN, 2-1 (4): Coach Sherwood is quietly having a very nice season so far. Scoring a minimum of 90 points each week, they had a tremendous victory last weekend, and look poised to continue it. They've got options, and still haven't got Jamaal Charles back.

3. Gridiron Gang, 3-0 (6): The only undefeated team in the LOC, Coach Stubbs Jr. continues the best start to a season of his career. Another team yet to score under 90, they've scored over 100 in back to back weeks. While they lack punch, they've got a lot of depth, and their consistency has shone through so far.

4. The Dream Team, 1-2 (2): Bit of a down week for Coach Nathwani's side, and they're quite unfortunate to be sitting at 0-2. Their two spot drop is more about other teams looking good as opposed to them looking bad. I imagine they'll rebound and will definitely contend this year.

5. Burdettinators, 2-1 (5): After a good start to the season, Coach Burdett's side looks like they're standing on a bit less firm ground. Be that as it may, they remain one of the more consistent sides in the league, and despite some problems surfacing they should be able to overcome them.

6. Tom's Tyrants, 1-2 (3): There's no denying it, Tom's Tyrants are in a bit of a funk. But this is nothing new, as slow starts to the season are almost par the course for Coach Barnes at this point. Key players are under performing right now, and I can't see that continuing for much longer. It's just a waiting game until this team wakes up.

7. The Bunch, 2-1 (7): Coach Nunn has had a very strong start to the season, and it looks like they've shaken the retirement rust off nicely. The starting lineup has a lot of star studded names, and they're still without the greatest player of all time. Depth will be an issue during byes, but otherwise they're golden.

8. Patistan, 1-2 (10): Coach Allen didn't realise the LOC season started until Week 3. At least that's the story he should go with. Patistan finally showed up in week 3 as the team we all expected them to be. Naturally, they'll need to have another good week to prove it's not a blip, but I think they'll steadily work their way up these rankings.

9. Cash4Gould, 2-1 (11): We have to commend Coach Gardner on what he's been able to do through three weeks. A rookie coach stepping into the league in 2016 and having this kind of success is phenomenal. Consistency may elude them, but if they keep having weeks like they had last week, they'll move up quickly.

10. Forge Flyers, 1-2 (8): Losing two starting RBs in the same week has sucked the air out of Coach Leach's side a bit, but fear not. Were it not for a questionable decision to play Kenyan Drake over Hilton last week, they would have had a very nice week. This roster will be able to win games this season.

11. ADRZ, 1-2 (9): It has been a very slow start to the season for Coach Wells, but they finally got a win last week. However, they are still yet to top 100 points in this still young season. Key players could be starting to regain their form and this time might start to get going, but I want to see it before I believe it.

12. The Tuckfards, 0-3 (12): It has been an absolutely brutal start to the year for Coach Merritt. The highest point total they've notched is 93, and they only posted 68 points last week. This team has been ravaged by injury and poor play, but they have Gronk back now, and if Merritt can channel his inner Barnidge they can make a comeback.

2016: The Plot Thickens

The Co-Host makes a triumphant return to the podcast after his arduous quest of traffic and Ikea have been conquered! And with him, he brings a bag of rewards in week 3 recaps and week 4 previews. The Commissioner also talks a bit as well, but we know who you're all here for.

EDOTLOCCA's Corner: 2016.4 - Week 3

Hello one and all! What a week in the LOC, we had injuries galore, bench players vastly outscoring starters and, well actually this sounds like a pretty bad week. But all is fair in love and fantasy and after two weeks each division is represented by an undefeated, two .500s and a team that forgot to set their alarm clocks for September. I am going to take this opportunity to take a moment and light a candle (you can’t prove that I didn’t) as I offer my condolences to Coaches Leach and Merritt who aren’t allowed to have RBs and Coach Allen who isn’t allowed to have players, injuries are cruel things. Anyway, onwards and upwards!

Coaches Award

Here we have a very well balanced team that responded brilliantly to a loss last week and can consider themselves unfortunate to be sitting at 1-1. A well drafted team is currently boasting players who are severely outplaying their draft position in the likes of Latavius Murray and Jordan Matthews. Every cog is turning right now and this coach knows better than most to make the most of it while it lasts, well done to Coach Nathwani for winning the Coaches Award this week.

Honourable mention: Coach Stubbs Sr. really isn’t messing around, already leading the league in scoring by nearly 50 points with 272 after two weeks. Of course, the league record two week span does sit at over 400 points, so there is always room for improvement, ayy?

Wooden Spoon

Whilst it didn’t necessarily cost them the game this week, whenever your benched player (and earlier draft pick) outscores your starter nearly 5 fold, you are going to be a primary focus for this award. Coach Allen got it wrong by benching Rivers this week and, like I said, it may not have cost him the game, but it did kick off a good ol’ fashioned QB carousel in camp Patistan, and a yearlong headache for the aforementioned Coach Allen.

Bold predictions

And here we meet 0-12 (still better than the Lions), it hasn’t been a dream start and to be quite frank, I didn’t even come close last week. I of course blame the players and not my psychic powers, I expect all of them to up their games in response this week.

Cash4Gould vs. Forge Flyers: Coach Leach did the obvious thing in picking up A.P.’s backup, then he picked up the backup’s backup… Asiata goes for 3 TDs, like he does every other time he plays.

The Dream Team vs. Gridiron Gang: Coach Stubbs Jr. is sitting pretty with a 45 point lead going into Monday night, unfortunately for him that’s when Brees and Julio face off, with a sprinkling of Bryant just to rub it in.

Sidenote: Dez Bryant is projected to both rush for 1 yard and throw for 1 yard for The Dream Team, look it up. Fair play though NFL.com; that is bold.

Burdettinators vs. The Bunch: Burdettinators third starting QB of the year (it’s working out a lot better than it is for the Browns) is their best yet. Ryan will triple Fitzpatrick’s score and leave The Bunch in the dust.

The Tuckfards vs. Patistan: The most bitter of rivalries in the LOC and The Tuckfards just ran out of RBs, ideal. Melvin Gordon is playing the Colts, he will double the total score of the Tuckfards starting RBs combined.

Bear Necessities vs. IKNAN: A lot of rushing talent on display here, I see this game totalling 8 rushing TDs and generally big scores across the board.

Tom’s Tyrants vs. ADRZ: Coach Wells loves a good pass-catching RB. This weeks with both receivers facing tough matchups, his RBs will out-receive his WRs in fact.

Right, that’s your predictions folks and, ever the optimist, I am sure we have a good one or two gems hidden in there! Anyway, I wish you all luck in your week ahead and I hope you enjoyed the article! P.S. listen to the podcast, I’m in it. See you next week!

2016: The injury apocalypse has arrived

Hide your kids, hide your wife, the injury apocalypse has arrived in the LOC! Commissioner Stubbs is flying solo this week because the injury apocalypse has seemingly snared co-host Chris Leach as well, so enjoy this slightly shorter edition of the week recap and preview. Coach Barnes joins for the Coach Call.

Power Rankings: Week 3

Week 2 is in the books and the LOC season is now in full swing. Week 1 didn't turn up much in terms of waiver picks and overwhelming surprises, but Week 2 sure has. Injuries to key players, trends developing, and the location of where the power lays in the LOC is slowly becoming more evident.

Power Rankings

1. Bear Necessities, 2-0 (1): What do you do after a momentous week 1 win? Follow up with another of course. The highest scoring team through 2 games already looks well on their way to the Playoffs. They're probably not going to be able to sustain this hot start, but points are coming from everywhere, and Coach Stubbs Sr. has yet to even make a patented waiver add.

2. The Dream Team, 1-1 (3): After being the highest scoring loser in Week 1, Coach Nathwani promptly follows up with a Week 2 W. Just another solid week, and we could see two playoff teams emerging from the Portsmouth division. Like I predicted, this teams points would spread out more and end up at a similar total. They're on course for a fine season.

3. Tom's Tyrants, 1-1 (2): By all accounts, just a dreadful week for Coach Barnes. But they remain at 3 because they had some horrific match ups and I put this down to just a bad week. I have full confidence in a rebound, and they've also got some nice options on the bench.

4. IKNAN, 1-1, (5): Another case of a bit of a down week, but the points still coming in regardless. This team looks deep, plain and simple. Still without Charles, and Fitzgerald was even on the bench this week, they're looking like a strong team early on despite a so-so week 1.

5. Burdettinators, 2-0 (6): After a somewhat fortunate Week 1 victory, Coach Burdett followed up with a good Week 2 and another win. Now, they only had a few players go over 10 points last week, but they still managed to go over 100. Key performers didn't even get the points, and they left a tonne on the bench. This team will be just fine.

6. Gridiron Gang, 2-0 (7): Despite losing a player to injury early on, Coach Stubbs Jr. secures a second win, and Gridiron Gang are off to their best start in their 8 year history. All the players on the starting lineup didn't necessarily fire, but they have a plethora of options on the bench. They aren't going to light up the scoreboard, but they should be able to grind wins out.

7. The Bunch, 1-1 (4): A bit of a disappointing week after a promising Week 1 for Coach Nunn. Look, by all accounts it was just a bad week. Brown, Hill and Hyde majorly disappointed which was the reason for their struggles. While depth remains an issue, this starting lineup should be good enough to earn a decent amount of wins this season.

8. Forge Flyers, 1-1 (8): And just as Forge Flyers looked ready to appear in the top half of the power rankings again...They lose Peterson and Woodhead in the same game. It's another case of woeful bad luck for Coach Leach, but they do have options on the bench, so I think they'll be able to have good weeks. Also, the Jeff Fisher of the LOC also got an impressive win this week, congrats.

9. ADRZ, 0-2 (12): It's been a tough start to the season for the current champ. There have been points for this team however, so it's not all doom and gloom. While RBs are still an issue, this team has got some players at its disposal and I fully expect Coach Wells to rebound sooner rather than later.

10. Patistan, 0-2 (11): A brutal start to the season for Coach Allen, who has left the most fantasy points in his bench so far. But that's not necessarily a bad thing, it means the team is capable of scoring points. While this roster has certainly taken some dings since the start of the season, they should be capable of a rebound.

11. Cash4Gould, 1-1 (9): Unfortunately for Coach Gardner, this was the type of performance we saw coming before week 1. Look, it was an awful week, and while they're not always going to be as bad as that, this team is going to have to grind games out on a weekly basis. They've certainly got some names, I just wonder if they can find the consistency.

12. The Tuckfards, 0-2 (10): We've never seen Coach Merritt in a position quite like this before. Perhaps this is right where he wants us. But as of right now, his finger must be hovering over the panic button. They haven't shown a great deal through two weeks, and their only healthy RBs on the roster are West and Yeldon. But, they're still yet to get Gronk back, so expect a typical Tuckfards turnaround.

EDOTLOCCA's Corner: 2016.3 - Week 2

Good evening Lords of the LOC! Week one is in the history books and I am guessing that around half of us are pretty happy with how it went, but I can guarantee that every single one of us can’t wait to get stuck into Week 2! I am personally just loving the amount of love I am getting from podcast/power rankings teams, holding onto a respectable 2nd place power team and featuring in both marquee matchups. In return, (*spoiler alert*), I have written about neither Gridiron Gang nor Forge Flyers this week, so you guys can just skip to the Bold Predictions if you like. AH, nothing like a one way relationship. Right, for you other 9 coaches, on with the show!

Coaches Award

Sometimes I really struggle to hand out this award and sometimes I just sail through an imaginary checklist in my head. Who won their game, who scored the most points, who demonstrated great team depth and line up selection, who… ahhh I have already given it away. Coach Stubbs Sr. has made his intentions clear and smashed his way into 2016. The draft looks great and the team looks strong. Sure, 98-yard TDs are not weekly occurrences, but their most talented player is still waiting for his role-call, this team looks scary.

Honourable mention: Well, we were all (kinda) wrong, the Rookie Coach Gardner has merited the ASJ pick after he turned out to be one of the top scoring TEs of the week… with one target… one. Congrats to Coach Gardner, but the seasoned veteran in me is screaming don’t push your luck.

Wooden Spoon

Hmmm, here we have a coach who didn’t feature on this side of the article much last season, but even at this early stage the faintest of alarm bells is starting to ring. This team was RB light, very light, and now their only highly invested RB has started the season looking like the lesser half of a committee, kinda reminiscent of Paul Chuckle (#TeamBarry). ADRZ have not started the season how they wanted and Coach Wells must now be praying that Theo Riddick proves that Week 1 was no fluke.

Bold predictions

First things first, no predictions from last week were correct, 0-6 to start the season. Last year we got 3 predictions right all season, so this isn’t so shocking I suppose. It doesn’t sound too ambitious to beat 3 does it? Well, you have the honour of watching me try.

The Tuckfards vs. Forge Flyers: Roethlisberger has a history of burning the Bengals, but Newton is going to take burning opponents to a whole new level this week, putting up half of Forge Flyers’ points.

Burdettinators vs. ADRZ: Oh the matchups for Green and Beckham… when 50 points just doesn’t seem bold enough, we are hitting 60 here.

Bear Necessities vs. The Bunch: The two highest scorers from last week both top 100 points again, the top scorer? Seahawks D, because LA are that awesome.

The Dream Team vs. Patistan: Whose excited about McCown being back?? I heard you Coach Allen, Barnidge makes up for the zero last week with an 18 point performance.

Cash4Gould vs. IKNAN: Everyone just seems to have good matchups this week, the receivers for these two teams will top 600 yards between them.

Tom’s Tyrants vs. Gridiron Gang: This game is going to be real close, Tom’s Tyrants will be winning half way through the Monday night game, but a garbage time Chicago touchdown rains all over that parade and Gridiron Gang pip it.

Well, there they are, fresh, bold and ready to be right(ish)! In the meantime, I wish you all the best of luck for the week coming, let’s see some big scores people! Okay okay, I’m too competitive for that, Coach Stubbs Jr., let’s see all those big scores left on the bench, good man. See you next week!

2016: Opening Weekend and Wee 2 Preview

Co-Host Chris Leach rejoins the podcast after finally getting out of traffic to recap the opening weekend of the LOC season and look ahead to Week 2. We also have a dynamite coach call this week with none other than Corona Bowl V winner Coach Burdett.

Power Rankings: Week 2

Fantasy is back! And isn't it just grand? The opening weekend of the LOC was a terrific one. We had 2 games that came down to less than 10 points, a team going over 140 points, and a rookie coach beat a seasoned veteran for their first ever win in the LOC (not a bad debue). But now we turn to week 2 and the power rankings. Even though we have tape on all the teams now, we're still in a state of flux as far as ranking teams goes. However, there were some notable things that happened which have affected the following.

Power Rankings

1. Bear Necessities, 1-0 (5): In case you didn't guess, this was the team that went over 140. Just a great week. Jumping up from 5th, as I said last week Bear Necessities looks strong all over. It's a stable group of steady contributors that all fired in week 1. While this obviously won't happen every week, it's encouraging to see for the months ahead. Some bench options look viable too, and we all expect Coach Stubbs Sr. to add a waiver gem here or there. This could be the team to beat.

2. Tom's Tyrants, 1-0 (2): The game looked touch and go for much of Sunday, but in the end the result was never in doubt. Now, you're probably thinking "Luck accounted for over a third of this teams points, how are they 2nd"?. Well, I'll tell you. Luck had a great week, but his floor is probably still about half of what he did. The rest of the roster had a pretty mediocre week by all accounts, and I expect that to change, levelling out to strong weekly totals. 

3. The Dream Team, 0-1 (3): The only team to go over 100 and still lose, it was a tough week for Coach Nathwani. But good weeks will be here to stay. Though 2 players accounted for over half this teams points, I expect that to level out somewhat, and they'll have consistently good weeks. I have concerns about Bryant and the flex, but I think they've also got capable options on the bench. 

4. The Bunch, 1-0 (11): A big mover here, and I'm happy to admit when I'm wrong. Coach Nunn had the second highest side in week 1, and they looked terrific. Their team all had good-not-great weeks and still put up a great total. They lost Allen, which obviously hurts, but I think Willie Snead can pick up the slack to some degree. They'll have some down weeks, but (especially when they get Brady back), they should also have some great ones.

5. IKNAN, 0-1 (1): Our first faller here, and it was a frustrating week for Coach Sherwood. The QB underperformed, and their TE were abysmal, which were largely the reason for the loss. Yet they still put up a good score. I think this roster is really talented, and I can't see them dropping below what they posted this week very often. That being said, I'm not as keen on their upside as I was a week before.

6. Burdettinators, 1-0 (6): Burdettinators cling onto the 6th spot this week. Their QB and TE were woeful, and two of their star players didn't do much. Despite all that, they just brought home the win in a lower scoring affair. This might end up being a middling team for the length of the season, but I have no doubt they'll have some great weeks along the way.

7. Gridiron Gang, 1-0 (7): In classic Coach Stubbs Jr. style, they nearly lost a game by releasing a high scoring D 30 minutes before game time. They managed to outlast their opponent in another lower scoring affair, but I feel better weeks are ahead. Special teams were the achilles heel of this team last week, as were a lack of TDs. They've got options on the bench, and some starters will be better, so they should be in for some good weeks.

8. Forge Flyers, 0-1 (8): Unfortunately, the tough times continued for Coach Leach. They had a couple of bright spots in week 1, but a lot of players did not perform. I don't think that happens again (seriously, 7 of 9 players just had a real bad week), but I do have concerns about this team. AP might struggle without a competent QB, and the Titans offence could limit Murray. But I think the other players rebound for this coach in a big way.

9. Cash4Gould, 1-0 (10): Congrats to Coach Gardner on having the highest win percentage of all LOC Coaches, a perfect 100% at 1-0. They've made progress in dispelling my worries as well. Langford and Elliot look like a decent RB duo, while the WRs look strong. I think this team could struggle some weeks (mainly during byes, the bench is still a glaring weakness), but they should be able to get some wins this year.

10. The Tuckfards, 0-1 (12): Despite the loss, I like what I saw from the team. A team that raised a lot of eyebrows in the draft, the roster came together (sans their first pick). I'm still not sold on this teams season long potential, but let's give Coach Merritt some credit here, he always does manage to cobble together great weeks against the odds. This looks like your typical Tuckfards roster.

11. Patistan, 0-1 (4): A tough loss to take for up-and-comer Coach Allen, and their 1st pick will draw much of the ire. This team was carried by Winston last week (which may be a strategy going forward). Look, it was a bad week, but I think they'll rebound. I know they've made a big drop here, but that's because I need to see what Coach Allen does next. I have all the confidence that Patistan can rebound. 

12. ADRZ, 0-1 (9): The current champ had a rough week 1, but don't fret there is hope...sort of. I have huge concerns about the RBs. Freeman looks to be in a committee, and Bernard is going to be volatile. The QB will have better weeks, and I think the WRs should be counted on for decent weeks between them. The roster has a lot of potential, so don't be surprised if they move up the rankings in the coming weeks.