Tuesday @ 7pm - Freedom [4-0] vs Straight Shots [1-2]
After dismantling Dead Strokes, Freedom looks to continue their surprising start and knock off another top team in their mid-season gauntlet run. While an easy start to the season may have boosted their confidence, a four week stretch against DS, SS, BNR and FTW will show us if Freedom are for real or not. Freedom were able to bring their best roster of the season last week with the old school duo of Andy and Nish able to go a combined 3-0, while DJ pushed his overall record to 5-0. These guys will be key if Pete keeps this run going. Straight Shots never played last week, but were still dealt a large blow with the dismissal of Mike from their team. With no Pita, and Charlie seeming to not be as consistent as he once was, Straight Shots have no back bone and will instead lean to the likes of Cam, Dustin and Kenny to show and hopefully together, win it for the team.
Prediction - 5-3 Freedom
Wednesday @ 6pm - Harley Hustlers [2-1] vs Pool Hall Pros [2-2]
While Omar was open about attempting to recruit everyone under the sun, it seems that there is a new water cooler for everyone to flock too. With recent additions in Croz, Maria, Thomas and now Mike, Brice & co. are looking mighty solid. Those 5 names alone are looking like they would be good enough to beat out a now undermanned SS and under-performing DS squad to the playoffs, and with the added depth of Frank, Steve and Dana, things are looking up for those Hustlers. While hustlers seem to make their living in pool halls, this match sees two ex-PHP'ers now playing for HH in Croz and Maria. Will there be bad blood? I doubt it, without Trio, PHP is pretty calm and as far as I can see there are a ton of good people on both sides of the match. While HH now has vast talent, PHP can try and get back above .500 with their current talent with the likes of Candi, Tommy and Raz leading the way. It'll be interesting to see if the new talent at HH can play well together and if Brice can keep them all happy, while we'll see if PHP are a team that have the ability to consistently battle top-tier teams.
Prediction - 5-4 Harley Hustlers
Wednesday @ 6pm - Pool Dragonz [1-3] vs For The Win [3-1]
In this match we see an undermanned PDZ squad face off against a Danielle led team that has had to squeak out some key wins this season. For PDZ, Joe hasn't been able to get a full team to the table, and in PRO you don't have much of a chance if you can't bring 5. He needs to get his team together if they look to have any shot at the playoffs before they dig themselves a hole they cannot get out of. They're only a game back of the playoffs so nothing is lost at this point, but back to back weeks of only showing with 4 players is not a good sign for the self-proclaimed pool stud. For Danielle & co., it's been a rough start despite their 3-1 record with the unexpected slow starts by Ant, Dante and Stephen. Brian has been able to save a few days but this is a week where everyone in FTW should be able to get going.
Prediction - 5-1 For The Win
Thursday @ 6pm - Rack Dem Up [0-4] vs Break and Run [4-0]
Despite Break and Runs newest star Craig being just 2-2 for Break and Run, they have shown that they are star-studded and are ready for another title run. The usual suspect in Jordy is carrying the load at 6-0 and should only increase this week. Both Gus and Mina have shown that they are able to show consistently again, helping Ross lead his squad to a perfect record thus far. For Tim & co., certainly a rough start and it doesn't get any easier this week, but they do have some talent and on any given night they can break out. If the likes of Tim, Jess and Sterlo can get going together on any night, only good things will follow. They're up tough this week, hopefully they are able to keep it close.
Prediction - 5-2 Break and Run
Thursday @ 7pm - 8Ball Crushers [1-3] vs Dead Strokes [1-3]
The final match-up of the week shows a mismatch despite their records. 8BC were able to get a big win last week over an undermanned PDZ squad while DS were just out-matched despite showing with their most talented roster to date. With the likes of Joey, Omar, Rocky, Ogges and Roy, DS would have no issue winning this week but Omar has shown his inability to get a consistent roster at the table beyond himself and Rocky, though this week those two should be out and firing looking to take out their early season frustration on anyone that shows. Andrew & co. were given new life last week after Andrew and corn were able to carry the team to their first victory of the season and despite it being early, have an opportunity to jump a few spots in the standings. Andrew will need a similar outing out of himself and corn and others if they look to have any shot at an upset this week.
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
Monday, November 19, 2012
Week Four
Monday @ 6pm - Freedom [3-0] vs Dead Strokes [1-2]
Find me any reason that this is not the match-up of the week and I'll shower you in diamonds. Firstly, in a conference where it is pretty clear that the 3 moving through to the playoffs will be DS, Freedom and SS, any match-up between the three teams will have major seeding implications. Secondly, it will tell us if Freedom is for real and/or Dead Strokes will be able to rebound. Freedom has gotten off to quite the start, despite playing against arguably the three worst teams in PRO thus far. A dazzling 15-1 overall record will be put to the test this week against a strong Dead Strokes squad that were able to bounce back after an atrocious start with a win over Straight Shots. Thirdly, there's a lot of tension between these leagues that can cause enough friction to light some fires. Long gone are the constant Freedom-Break and Run battles that caused headaches week after week, but while the rivalry remains strong, it seems Break and Run were replaced by Dead Strokes and more often than not there is some sort of drama between the two sides, going back much farther than the last season of WSOP where one side was suspected of booting the other sides players. With Freedom starting those fires more often than not, and having players banned in DS ran interleagues, Pete will be sure to keep his players as cool as possible to avoid unnecessary headaches in his own interleague and focus on getting that win. The final reason for this being the best match-up of the week? The players that will be there.. hopefully. Let's start with Freedom, DJ has gotten off to a great start leading his team with a 4-0 record picking up the slack of lost stars in Adam, Ben, Mike and Scotty but thankfully for Pete he's been able to get other studs to come back with the likes of Andy, Nish and Travis. These names are going to be key for Pete if he looks to keep the solid start going. For Dead Strokes, it's been a rough start to say the least. The original star of Dead Strokes in Ashton has taken a break for good, and with the Luis', Nick and others seemingly gone, Omar has gone back to promising the return of players like CK and others. He has been able to get Ogges and Pommy back which has been key in other interleagues, but so far in PRO it has been a solo mission by Rocky doing all the work. Omar will need these guys and himself to not only show, but play their best to take down what might be a stacked Freedom squad. For Freedom to win, they need to know Rocky isn't the only player they'll be playing and make sure they don't slip up. This exciting match should go down to the wire, with cautious play on both sides and chances are the odd fire being lit.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Tuesday @ 6pm - For The Win [2-1] vs Rack Dem Up [0-3]
Both sides are coming off a loss last week, but RDU has had a few more losses this season. Brian was unable to carry the load against a stacked Break and Run squad but should have no issue this week. Rack Dem Up had issues last week against a solid Freedom squad and while they get their stud and captain handkrash back, they'll need a lot more to overcome a strong FTW side. It's been a tough start for RDU this season with Thomas waiting until a few weeks into a season to bail, but this group is a good group of people and hopefully they are able to draw positives from this match and move on as better times are ahead.
Prediction - 5-1 For The Win
Tuesday @ 6pm - Straight Shots [1-2] vs Harley Hustlers [2-1]
A victim of Rocky, Straight Shots look to rebound against a Harley Hustlers squad getting better with a proud captain. Brice has taken his roll in HH and put it on his sleeve. A lot of pride and effort goes into his captaining here and it's starting to pay off. Brice was able to pick up Thomas last week and he helped carry HH to their second win of the season. Now this week they have picked up the likes of Croz and Maria, giving HH some great depth and may be able to slip into the top 3 if a team like DS begins to falter. Steve, Frank and now Thomas have been vital to their quick 2-1 start, and with the added depth things are looking up for HH and a big challenge to prove themselves this week. Straight Shots despite falling to 1-2 due to Rocky, still have great potential despite losing Mike to free agency. Cam, Charlie and Dustin have all gotten off to slow starts but we all know it won't last, and this might be the week they turn it around and start getting those wins!
Prediction - 5-3 Straight Shots
Wednesday @ 7pm - 8Ball Crushers [0-3] vs Pool Dragonz [1-2]
Both sides come off a loss in which they were originally leading by game 3/5 and look to rebound and add injury insult to their opponent. No one in 8BC has been able to get their season going on the right foot with losses piling up quicker than losses, but it's a matter of time until the likes of Andrew starts to get it going, and he matches up well with PDZ. For Pool Dragonz, Rob and Charles have been doing as much as they can, so far getting PDZ the one victory and are looking to get back to .500. Neither side want to fall much farther behind so expect captains to put pressure on their teams to get it going, hopefully neither crack under the pressure.
Prediction - 5-4 8Ball Crushers
Thursday @ 6pm - Break and Run [3-0] vs Pool Hall Pros [2-1]
Teams might now be regretting moving their matches to Thursdays now that they see what Break and Run are capable of, even on days that aren't Thursday. A big win over conference-rival For The Win showed that even if it's not Thursday, you'll have issues. With Croz leaving due to Craig coming in, it's easy to compare who you rather would have. Craig would beat Croz in a set 6 times out of 10, but chances are those 4 losses by Craig are because he quits early because he's behind, or sick of his own drama, and as shown in seasons past, he's hardly consistent and has no issue bringing drama. That aside, a starting five of Craig, Jordy, Gus, Mina and Lewis is good enough to take the title, but that won't be for more than 2 months so who knows what will happen in the mean time. This week though, they take on a Pool Hall Pros side who have been able to get wins based off one player carrying, but will need more than one ace to take down Break and Run. Tommy and Candi will be counted on this week while the likes of Razzy, Mikey and Damo will need to provide support if they look to upset the top dog this week.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
Find me any reason that this is not the match-up of the week and I'll shower you in diamonds. Firstly, in a conference where it is pretty clear that the 3 moving through to the playoffs will be DS, Freedom and SS, any match-up between the three teams will have major seeding implications. Secondly, it will tell us if Freedom is for real and/or Dead Strokes will be able to rebound. Freedom has gotten off to quite the start, despite playing against arguably the three worst teams in PRO thus far. A dazzling 15-1 overall record will be put to the test this week against a strong Dead Strokes squad that were able to bounce back after an atrocious start with a win over Straight Shots. Thirdly, there's a lot of tension between these leagues that can cause enough friction to light some fires. Long gone are the constant Freedom-Break and Run battles that caused headaches week after week, but while the rivalry remains strong, it seems Break and Run were replaced by Dead Strokes and more often than not there is some sort of drama between the two sides, going back much farther than the last season of WSOP where one side was suspected of booting the other sides players. With Freedom starting those fires more often than not, and having players banned in DS ran interleagues, Pete will be sure to keep his players as cool as possible to avoid unnecessary headaches in his own interleague and focus on getting that win. The final reason for this being the best match-up of the week? The players that will be there.. hopefully. Let's start with Freedom, DJ has gotten off to a great start leading his team with a 4-0 record picking up the slack of lost stars in Adam, Ben, Mike and Scotty but thankfully for Pete he's been able to get other studs to come back with the likes of Andy, Nish and Travis. These names are going to be key for Pete if he looks to keep the solid start going. For Dead Strokes, it's been a rough start to say the least. The original star of Dead Strokes in Ashton has taken a break for good, and with the Luis', Nick and others seemingly gone, Omar has gone back to promising the return of players like CK and others. He has been able to get Ogges and Pommy back which has been key in other interleagues, but so far in PRO it has been a solo mission by Rocky doing all the work. Omar will need these guys and himself to not only show, but play their best to take down what might be a stacked Freedom squad. For Freedom to win, they need to know Rocky isn't the only player they'll be playing and make sure they don't slip up. This exciting match should go down to the wire, with cautious play on both sides and chances are the odd fire being lit.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Tuesday @ 6pm - For The Win [2-1] vs Rack Dem Up [0-3]
Both sides are coming off a loss last week, but RDU has had a few more losses this season. Brian was unable to carry the load against a stacked Break and Run squad but should have no issue this week. Rack Dem Up had issues last week against a solid Freedom squad and while they get their stud and captain handkrash back, they'll need a lot more to overcome a strong FTW side. It's been a tough start for RDU this season with Thomas waiting until a few weeks into a season to bail, but this group is a good group of people and hopefully they are able to draw positives from this match and move on as better times are ahead.
Prediction - 5-1 For The Win
Tuesday @ 6pm - Straight Shots [1-2] vs Harley Hustlers [2-1]
A victim of Rocky, Straight Shots look to rebound against a Harley Hustlers squad getting better with a proud captain. Brice has taken his roll in HH and put it on his sleeve. A lot of pride and effort goes into his captaining here and it's starting to pay off. Brice was able to pick up Thomas last week and he helped carry HH to their second win of the season. Now this week they have picked up the likes of Croz and Maria, giving HH some great depth and may be able to slip into the top 3 if a team like DS begins to falter. Steve, Frank and now Thomas have been vital to their quick 2-1 start, and with the added depth things are looking up for HH and a big challenge to prove themselves this week. Straight Shots despite falling to 1-2 due to Rocky, still have great potential despite losing Mike to free agency. Cam, Charlie and Dustin have all gotten off to slow starts but we all know it won't last, and this might be the week they turn it around and start getting those wins!
Prediction - 5-3 Straight Shots
Wednesday @ 7pm - 8Ball Crushers [0-3] vs Pool Dragonz [1-2]
Both sides come off a loss in which they were originally leading by game 3/5 and look to rebound and add injury insult to their opponent. No one in 8BC has been able to get their season going on the right foot with losses piling up quicker than losses, but it's a matter of time until the likes of Andrew starts to get it going, and he matches up well with PDZ. For Pool Dragonz, Rob and Charles have been doing as much as they can, so far getting PDZ the one victory and are looking to get back to .500. Neither side want to fall much farther behind so expect captains to put pressure on their teams to get it going, hopefully neither crack under the pressure.
Prediction - 5-4 8Ball Crushers
Thursday @ 6pm - Break and Run [3-0] vs Pool Hall Pros [2-1]
Teams might now be regretting moving their matches to Thursdays now that they see what Break and Run are capable of, even on days that aren't Thursday. A big win over conference-rival For The Win showed that even if it's not Thursday, you'll have issues. With Croz leaving due to Craig coming in, it's easy to compare who you rather would have. Craig would beat Croz in a set 6 times out of 10, but chances are those 4 losses by Craig are because he quits early because he's behind, or sick of his own drama, and as shown in seasons past, he's hardly consistent and has no issue bringing drama. That aside, a starting five of Craig, Jordy, Gus, Mina and Lewis is good enough to take the title, but that won't be for more than 2 months so who knows what will happen in the mean time. This week though, they take on a Pool Hall Pros side who have been able to get wins based off one player carrying, but will need more than one ace to take down Break and Run. Tommy and Candi will be counted on this week while the likes of Razzy, Mikey and Damo will need to provide support if they look to upset the top dog this week.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
Monday, November 12, 2012
Week Three
Monday @ 6pm - For The Win [2-0] vs Break and Run [2-0]
The clear top two sides in the Atlantic Conference face off, and while at the start of the season predicting a winner would be easy, a now reloaded Break and Run squad look to challenge FTW for the top spot. With new additions in Lewis and Craig debuting last week, the starting five of Break and Run (Gus, Jordy, Mina, Lewis and Craig) might be the best here in PRO this season, but then again that's only on Thursdays. Who Ross can get to show on Monday will be interesting to see. On the flip side, FTW is a consistent team that can get the same 4-5 on any night so unless the likes of Gus and Jordy are able to show, Danielle & co. shouldn't have an issue this week.
Prediction - 5-3 For The Win
Tuesday @ 7pm - Dead Strokes [0-2] vs Straight Shots [1-1]
In what was supposed to be a match-up between the top two sides in the Pacific, we see two sides going in opposite directions. Dead Strokes came into this season, with Omar hyping themselves up even further with all these great recruits. The only new-recruit doing any damage at all in DS isn't even the result of Omar according to Craig. Yeesh. Straight Shots on the flip side are only getting stronger with the return of Charlie and the likes of Mike coming back. Despite being 1-1, they really are the top team in the conference in my eyes after a tough loss to Break and Run last week. A win over DS this week will, for the time being at least, show that they are just that. SS have too many weapons to quiet Rocky and Omar it seems only has Rocky..
Prediction - 5-2 Straight Shots
Wednesday @ 7pm - Freedom [2-0] vs Rack Dem Up [0-2]
While Freedom are certainly off to a much better start than last season, they haven't faced a top tier team yet and even though RDU are better without Thomas, this isn't much of a match up. While everyone hopped on the Freedom bandwagon again, the only stars that have returned this season so far are Andy and Travis who have only played one week thus far. Despite DJ hopping off to a quick 3-0 start, no one in Freedom has needed to carry because they have just been rolling over teams which should continue this week. Thomas has finally done what he has done best and leave his own league. Jess is in tough this week without one of her top players, but she has one thing going for her: No Thomas! Will RDU get those players back that Thomas drove away? Who knows, hopefully a thumping by Freedom doesn't drive people away.
Prediction - 5-1 Freedom
Thursday @ 6pm - Pool Hall Pros [1-1] vs Pool Dragonz [1-1]
A big match-up here as we see two sides that very well will be fighting for the third spot all season long. PHP has been the better of two so far in their non-RDU match-ups losing by just one to FTW. While PDZ got beat in week 1 by Break and Run. Up and down the roster, it seems PHP has the edge here, and should be able to take this handily.
Prediction - 5-2 Pool Hall Pros
Thursday @ 7pm - Harley Hustlers [1-1] vs 8Ball Crushers [0-2]
The final match-up of the week showcases HH who were not only able to rebound after a thumping by Freedom in week 1, but do so against DS in game 9. So who are HH? Will they be for real this season or just a team that goes up and down with consistency? If they are able to continue the poor start by 8BC, it's a step in the right direction for them. 8BC have had the harshest start to the season because of their schedule, but all that means is that it gets easier down the road. They have players who are capable of carrying, and maybe a match-up with HH will start to get the wins coming in. If Andrew is able to play his cards right at home, this match will be close and in a case like that, either side could win.
Prediction - 5-4 Harley Hustlers
The clear top two sides in the Atlantic Conference face off, and while at the start of the season predicting a winner would be easy, a now reloaded Break and Run squad look to challenge FTW for the top spot. With new additions in Lewis and Craig debuting last week, the starting five of Break and Run (Gus, Jordy, Mina, Lewis and Craig) might be the best here in PRO this season, but then again that's only on Thursdays. Who Ross can get to show on Monday will be interesting to see. On the flip side, FTW is a consistent team that can get the same 4-5 on any night so unless the likes of Gus and Jordy are able to show, Danielle & co. shouldn't have an issue this week.
Prediction - 5-3 For The Win
Tuesday @ 7pm - Dead Strokes [0-2] vs Straight Shots [1-1]
In what was supposed to be a match-up between the top two sides in the Pacific, we see two sides going in opposite directions. Dead Strokes came into this season, with Omar hyping themselves up even further with all these great recruits. The only new-recruit doing any damage at all in DS isn't even the result of Omar according to Craig. Yeesh. Straight Shots on the flip side are only getting stronger with the return of Charlie and the likes of Mike coming back. Despite being 1-1, they really are the top team in the conference in my eyes after a tough loss to Break and Run last week. A win over DS this week will, for the time being at least, show that they are just that. SS have too many weapons to quiet Rocky and Omar it seems only has Rocky..
Prediction - 5-2 Straight Shots
Wednesday @ 7pm - Freedom [2-0] vs Rack Dem Up [0-2]
While Freedom are certainly off to a much better start than last season, they haven't faced a top tier team yet and even though RDU are better without Thomas, this isn't much of a match up. While everyone hopped on the Freedom bandwagon again, the only stars that have returned this season so far are Andy and Travis who have only played one week thus far. Despite DJ hopping off to a quick 3-0 start, no one in Freedom has needed to carry because they have just been rolling over teams which should continue this week. Thomas has finally done what he has done best and leave his own league. Jess is in tough this week without one of her top players, but she has one thing going for her: No Thomas! Will RDU get those players back that Thomas drove away? Who knows, hopefully a thumping by Freedom doesn't drive people away.
Prediction - 5-1 Freedom
Thursday @ 6pm - Pool Hall Pros [1-1] vs Pool Dragonz [1-1]
A big match-up here as we see two sides that very well will be fighting for the third spot all season long. PHP has been the better of two so far in their non-RDU match-ups losing by just one to FTW. While PDZ got beat in week 1 by Break and Run. Up and down the roster, it seems PHP has the edge here, and should be able to take this handily.
Prediction - 5-2 Pool Hall Pros
Thursday @ 7pm - Harley Hustlers [1-1] vs 8Ball Crushers [0-2]
The final match-up of the week showcases HH who were not only able to rebound after a thumping by Freedom in week 1, but do so against DS in game 9. So who are HH? Will they be for real this season or just a team that goes up and down with consistency? If they are able to continue the poor start by 8BC, it's a step in the right direction for them. 8BC have had the harshest start to the season because of their schedule, but all that means is that it gets easier down the road. They have players who are capable of carrying, and maybe a match-up with HH will start to get the wins coming in. If Andrew is able to play his cards right at home, this match will be close and in a case like that, either side could win.
Prediction - 5-4 Harley Hustlers
Monday, November 5, 2012
Week Two
Monday @ 6pm - Pool Hall Pros [1-0] vs For The Win [1-0]
Both sides are coming off opening week wins and look to continue that success. PHP had the lone "upset" of the week being the only underdog to win. Whether it was an issue of RDU not being strong or PHP being stronger than most first though, FTW clearly had the harder week facing DS but were able to keep Rocky from running the table on them. I mentioned FTW was deep, but with the likes of Ant, Brian and Dante all losing, new-comer Killer was able to clinch it. It wasn't a dominating result they will have hoped for, but a win is a win and this week should keep FTW rolling along.
Prediction - 5-2 For The Win
Monday @ 6pm - Harley Hustlers [0-1] vs Dead Strokes [0-1]
A match where both teams are looking for their first win, and while on paper it seems the home side may have it in the bag, it may not be that easy. Harley Hustlers ran into Freedom on a good night and ended up losing quite handily, but it doesn't look like they had their best team at the table. On the flip side, DQ's and DS seem to go hand in hand apparently with a few DQ's going against DS. Craig their ex-captain wasn't even there so you can't fault him but rather Omar who still seems to not understand the rules fully. For some strange reason I feel like there is big upset potential here, but betting against the likes of Rocky, Pommy and Ogges who seems to be back for good is just too hard to do.
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes
Wednesday @ 7pm - Rack Dem Up [0-1] vs Pool Dragonz [0-1]
A fairly even match-up between two winless teams has a result really hinging on who RDU bring to the table. When they first came to interleagues they seemed to have a lot of big names, but those big names have seem to have faded and their roster seems a bit limited, more so this week with one player boxed. For Pool Dragonz, it's seemingly the same roster week after week but with the addition of Wild Thing from UO, they do gain a bit of depth and skill that could be enough to push them up the ladder. This is a big match-up as early as it is as these two could very well be battling for the final play-off spot near the end of the season.
Prediction - 5-3 Pool Dragonz
Thursday @ 6pm - Straight Shots [1-0] vs Break and Run [1-0]
Probably the best match-up of the week has my fav. team up against a Break and Run team that seems stronger than usual. With the likes of Gus, Ross and Crozzy all notching wins last week in place of Mina and Jordy, the depth is back for Break and Run who have gone a few seasons since their last championship. Last season both Ross and Croz were unable to gain consistent play and that seemed to be their downfall, so with both of them picking up 2 wins in the first week, it'll be good to see if they are able to keep that going. For Straight Shots, they were able to pick up a win without having the strongest of rosters, but with the likes of Kenny and Charlie back and steady, if they're able to play consistently for Dustin, this team could make a return to being dominant. If both sides are able to bring their best it's really tough to pick a winner, but with the whole BNR-Thursday thing going on, they'll be my pick.
Prediction - 5-4 Break and Run
Thursday @ 7pm - Freedom [1-0] vs 8Ball Crushers [0-1]
Well look at that, tricks were shown as the likes of both Andy and Travis were able to make their return for Freedom, certainly easing the pain for Pete as now he doesn't have to rely on himself and DJ every week, but, how often will they be able to play? If at least one of the two are able to show up every week, Freedom might actually be able to challenge for the top spot in the Pacific with the likes of DS and SS. For 8BC, they had a tough start last week and it doesn't get much better this week. Andrew will need to be on his game and get some support if they look to upset a Freedom squad who may have their mojo back.
Prediction - 5-2 Freedom
Both sides are coming off opening week wins and look to continue that success. PHP had the lone "upset" of the week being the only underdog to win. Whether it was an issue of RDU not being strong or PHP being stronger than most first though, FTW clearly had the harder week facing DS but were able to keep Rocky from running the table on them. I mentioned FTW was deep, but with the likes of Ant, Brian and Dante all losing, new-comer Killer was able to clinch it. It wasn't a dominating result they will have hoped for, but a win is a win and this week should keep FTW rolling along.
Prediction - 5-2 For The Win
Monday @ 6pm - Harley Hustlers [0-1] vs Dead Strokes [0-1]
A match where both teams are looking for their first win, and while on paper it seems the home side may have it in the bag, it may not be that easy. Harley Hustlers ran into Freedom on a good night and ended up losing quite handily, but it doesn't look like they had their best team at the table. On the flip side, DQ's and DS seem to go hand in hand apparently with a few DQ's going against DS. Craig their ex-captain wasn't even there so you can't fault him but rather Omar who still seems to not understand the rules fully. For some strange reason I feel like there is big upset potential here, but betting against the likes of Rocky, Pommy and Ogges who seems to be back for good is just too hard to do.
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes
Wednesday @ 7pm - Rack Dem Up [0-1] vs Pool Dragonz [0-1]
A fairly even match-up between two winless teams has a result really hinging on who RDU bring to the table. When they first came to interleagues they seemed to have a lot of big names, but those big names have seem to have faded and their roster seems a bit limited, more so this week with one player boxed. For Pool Dragonz, it's seemingly the same roster week after week but with the addition of Wild Thing from UO, they do gain a bit of depth and skill that could be enough to push them up the ladder. This is a big match-up as early as it is as these two could very well be battling for the final play-off spot near the end of the season.
Prediction - 5-3 Pool Dragonz
Thursday @ 6pm - Straight Shots [1-0] vs Break and Run [1-0]
Probably the best match-up of the week has my fav. team up against a Break and Run team that seems stronger than usual. With the likes of Gus, Ross and Crozzy all notching wins last week in place of Mina and Jordy, the depth is back for Break and Run who have gone a few seasons since their last championship. Last season both Ross and Croz were unable to gain consistent play and that seemed to be their downfall, so with both of them picking up 2 wins in the first week, it'll be good to see if they are able to keep that going. For Straight Shots, they were able to pick up a win without having the strongest of rosters, but with the likes of Kenny and Charlie back and steady, if they're able to play consistently for Dustin, this team could make a return to being dominant. If both sides are able to bring their best it's really tough to pick a winner, but with the whole BNR-Thursday thing going on, they'll be my pick.
Prediction - 5-4 Break and Run
Thursday @ 7pm - Freedom [1-0] vs 8Ball Crushers [0-1]
Well look at that, tricks were shown as the likes of both Andy and Travis were able to make their return for Freedom, certainly easing the pain for Pete as now he doesn't have to rely on himself and DJ every week, but, how often will they be able to play? If at least one of the two are able to show up every week, Freedom might actually be able to challenge for the top spot in the Pacific with the likes of DS and SS. For 8BC, they had a tough start last week and it doesn't get much better this week. Andrew will need to be on his game and get some support if they look to upset a Freedom squad who may have their mojo back.
Prediction - 5-2 Freedom
Monday, October 29, 2012
Week One
Monday @ 6pm - Dead Strokes @ For The Win
What a way to start the season off with the two reigning champs whom are both unanimous picks to return to the finals. We all know that both sides are talented, but who will actually show for Dead Strokes? The big guns have basically chased the lesser players like Chele, Carl, etc away, and how many of their big guns are really a fan of Craig in the first place? There are a lot of questions for Dead Strokes to answer, and it will be really interesting to see how Craig handles his first match as captain. On the other side, it's the same old jazz. Ant, Danielle, Stephen, Brian and Dante are my best guess at the 5 they'll have. The experience of playing together as a team should be what puts them over the hump this week as I imagine DS will be in a bit of a scramble tonight.
Prediction - 5-3 For The Win.
Tuesday @ 6pm - Harley Hustlers @ Freedom
The first of two Tuesday night match ups will see two teams that should be battling for the final playoff spot square off against each other. These two have faced off twice in 4orce already and have both won one match, so in PRO where everyone builds up the pressure that much more, it'll be interesting to see who folds. HH will have a solid 5 players at the table, while it's tough to imagine who Pete will have. If none of his old stars are able to come back or he can't get anyone in time for the match, it will probably come down to Pete vs HH himself, but Pete has too many tricks up his sleeve and they should be able to win.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Tuesday @ 7pm - 8BallCrushers @ Straight Shots
Andrew & co haven't been predicted to do well by most, and considering Straight Shots are usually slow starters in any interleague, this could be an opportune time to start a winning streak. With Straight Shots, there will always be the usual culprits at the table for Dustin & Shelle, but whether or not players like Kenny will show is another thing. This will be a close match but I think Straight Shots will show the greater depth and take this one.
Prediction - 5-4 Straight Shots
Wednesday @ 6pm - Pool Hall Pros @ Rack Dem Up
Coming into this match-up, it is a bit tough to know who will be playing for either side, but RDU has been seeing a fair amount of success lately in interleagues so it's expected that will continue this season. PHP on the other side have a new captain so without much experience, it'll be tough for PHP to compete with the more skilled side.
Prediction - 5-3 Rack Dem Up
Thursday @ 6pm - Pool Dragonz @ Break and Run
The final match of the week shows these two consistent leagues battle it out. Based on the assumption that other predictors are correct and that Gus and Jordy are able to play on Thursdays, this does not bode well for Joe & co., who looks to start his new captaining gig on the right foot. He has been able to do well so far in WPC, but with carry he'll need to have some knock out punches if he looks to go far. Break and Run will have that knock out punch, and possibly every Thursday from now on, a first week knock out is the safe bet.
Prediction - 5-2 Break and Run
What a way to start the season off with the two reigning champs whom are both unanimous picks to return to the finals. We all know that both sides are talented, but who will actually show for Dead Strokes? The big guns have basically chased the lesser players like Chele, Carl, etc away, and how many of their big guns are really a fan of Craig in the first place? There are a lot of questions for Dead Strokes to answer, and it will be really interesting to see how Craig handles his first match as captain. On the other side, it's the same old jazz. Ant, Danielle, Stephen, Brian and Dante are my best guess at the 5 they'll have. The experience of playing together as a team should be what puts them over the hump this week as I imagine DS will be in a bit of a scramble tonight.
Prediction - 5-3 For The Win.
Tuesday @ 6pm - Harley Hustlers @ Freedom
The first of two Tuesday night match ups will see two teams that should be battling for the final playoff spot square off against each other. These two have faced off twice in 4orce already and have both won one match, so in PRO where everyone builds up the pressure that much more, it'll be interesting to see who folds. HH will have a solid 5 players at the table, while it's tough to imagine who Pete will have. If none of his old stars are able to come back or he can't get anyone in time for the match, it will probably come down to Pete vs HH himself, but Pete has too many tricks up his sleeve and they should be able to win.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Tuesday @ 7pm - 8BallCrushers @ Straight Shots
Andrew & co haven't been predicted to do well by most, and considering Straight Shots are usually slow starters in any interleague, this could be an opportune time to start a winning streak. With Straight Shots, there will always be the usual culprits at the table for Dustin & Shelle, but whether or not players like Kenny will show is another thing. This will be a close match but I think Straight Shots will show the greater depth and take this one.
Prediction - 5-4 Straight Shots
Wednesday @ 6pm - Pool Hall Pros @ Rack Dem Up
Coming into this match-up, it is a bit tough to know who will be playing for either side, but RDU has been seeing a fair amount of success lately in interleagues so it's expected that will continue this season. PHP on the other side have a new captain so without much experience, it'll be tough for PHP to compete with the more skilled side.
Prediction - 5-3 Rack Dem Up
Thursday @ 6pm - Pool Dragonz @ Break and Run
The final match of the week shows these two consistent leagues battle it out. Based on the assumption that other predictors are correct and that Gus and Jordy are able to play on Thursdays, this does not bode well for Joe & co., who looks to start his new captaining gig on the right foot. He has been able to do well so far in WPC, but with carry he'll need to have some knock out punches if he looks to go far. Break and Run will have that knock out punch, and possibly every Thursday from now on, a first week knock out is the safe bet.
Prediction - 5-2 Break and Run
Season 15
Here we go with another season of PRO! With yesterdays tournament being cancelled, it's tough to see who the new guys for each team will be, but I'll have to do my best! First my pre-season predictions which looking back to last season, were almost exact so looking forward to continuing that success!
Atlantic Conference
First - For The Win
It's always difficult to think a defending champion cannot do it again, and with Danielle & Co. seemingly only getting stronger, the message shown by For The Win is quite simple, we're the best, deal with it. So good indeed, Ant isn't as important anymore. Yes he is good, but with recent acquisitions for them, he can lose and no one on the team will be sweating. As long as Danielle can keep everyone interested for the entire season, the season should be a breeze for them.
Key Players: Ant, Brian, Stephen
Best case record: 13-0
Probable record: 11-2
Second - Break and Run
The usual suspect to always be battling for the top spot, Break and Run come in unchanged as usual so there isn't much to stay. The usual crop of Jordy, Mina and Ross will be looked upon to lead this team into the playoffs once again, and with the help of Mike and Lisa, and Gus when he does show. There is never much depth on this team, which has always almost hurt them, but never has, but can you really rely on the same 6-7 players over ~3 years and expect the same success? So far Ross has been able to.
Key Players: Gus, Jordy, Mina
Best case record: 12-1
Probable record: 9-4
Third - Rack Dem Up
A Thomas Podmore league in PRO? I recall writing about his leagues in other leagues lasting no more than half a season, but it seems that this league has been stable for quite some time, and with Jess by his side, this creates a stable environment unseen by Thomas. The type of players Thomas has, has always been the same though with an inconsistent group of "no where else to go". Which is good and bad, good in the sense that returning players with poor histories will come here first, bad in the sense that they bring the same poor attitude and will jump ship whenever it rains. Again, Jess brings the stability that I believe can lead RDU to not only a full season in a proper interleague, but post-season opportunity.
Key Players: Cam, handkrash, Thomas
Best case record: 10-3
Probable record: 7-6
Fourth - Pool Dragonz
Always a team that everyone enjoys playing with, Pool Dragonz returns to PRO and with the apparent merge of Joes league, they finally have depth. Charles & Joe will be leading this team with average expectations, but the real ability to upset some of the top teams. The quality of players usually brought to the table by PDZ are not full of big names, but rather 5 quality names that at any given night, can upset any team. PDZ may have the best history of quality upsets, and as long as Joe, their captain, is able to play this season and not turn it into something poltical, PDZ have a realistic chance of being able to defeat any team beyond DS & FTW.
Key Players: Charles, Joe, Rob
Best case record: 8-5
Probable record: 5-8
Fifth - Pool Hall Pros
Always sucks having to put a team in last, but as a realist, that is how I see it today. Last season PHP showed minimal success with Trio and Joe living up to none of their talk. But with them gone, it doesn't seem like it will get any better. The usual players of Bev, Damo and Razzy will do their best with the new help of Maria and Mikey, and while PHP have a similar situation to PDZ in terms of being able to upset most teams, they really are lacking depth that I can see that will help and allow them challenge for a playoff spot. Best of luck this season though.
Key Players: Damo, Mikey, Razzy
Best case record: 6-7
Probable record: 3-10
Atlantic Conference
First - Dead Strokes
First predictor not to rag on DS and their recruiting methods? I'll try. Coming off a season in which they were runners-up in the playoffs, and other interleague seasons where they were runners-up as well, hard to pick any other spot for them than to repeat as a finals contender. With the likes of Luis B. and Ashton more or less fully retired, Omar will now lean on other old school players who have returned in Ogges and TJ. The fact he has allowed Craig to captain makes me ponder the decision and looking down the road, if Craig is expected to captain the entire season, there may be quite some turmoil on the team. The last time he was in PRO there was the apparent aimering in the all-star match so not sure what Roy is thinking, but Craig is a dynamite player that can possible put DS over their finals hump and give them that trophy they desire.
Key Players: Craig, Pommy, Omar
Best case record: 13-0
Probable record: 11-2
Second - Straight Shots
Depth has never, ever been an issue for Straight Shots, but coming into this season, it seems they've finally gotten something they've been missing over the past few seasons: solid players. The likes of Dustin, Kenny and Saf are great for Shelle & co. With the SSCam season boasting their own player in the Division B finals, that depth that has been talked about since day one has finally grown and now their depth of the past, is finally quality depth and Straight Shots should be able to compete for the top spot over all if they are able to find consistent play.
Key Players: Dustin, Kenny, Saf
Best case record: 12-2
Probable record: 9-4
This is where things get interesting as any of these teams can grab that final playoff spot for their own reasons.
Most likely to finish third - Freedom
From 13-0, to missing the playoffs, and this prediction like other predictors have noted, is purely based on Pete. The WPC roster Freedom has is basically Break and Run + Pete (Pete is eligible in Break and Run too, why not just BNR?), their 4orce roster is nothing like Freedom has had in seasons past and looking at their roster from the last half of UIC last season, Pete is in trouble with players. Consistently, I see him having DJ, Ash and Tim almost every week, beyond that I feel the depth of west_coast_guy420 and... I literally cannot find another ID that seems to show every now and then for Freedom. Pete has the ability to gain top-flight players, and there is the chance that his old players come back for one more whirl but Freedom is the X-Factor this season, any record for them is imaginable.
What separates them from the other two: Experience
Key Players: Pete
Best case record: 9-4
Probable record: 6-7
Second most likely to finish third - 8BallCrushers
A team I love predicting, Andrew brings 8BC back for another whirl of things. Last season they saw success on an individual level with different players coming out in their limited time taking over for who ever withdrew. 8BC is a real active league, and a real nice league too. The players they bring are people you have the ability to talk to for hours after and just great people over all. You won't get any drama with this league and every match is quality as Andrew is able to bring solid players to the table. They can compete against any league and while they miss the "knock-out" factor of a top notch player, they have guys that can get on a roll any night.
What separates them from the other two: Consistent depth
Key Players: Andrew, Dawn.
Best case record: 8-6
Probable record: 5-8
Least likely to finish third - Harley Hustlers
HH is a tight group lead by Steve, full of great people he has gotten this league a lot of recognition for being great people to play with, and being quite active as well. With SP falling, Steve has been able to acquire Brice for some much needed experience, kind of. Brice has experience, but just doesn't use it. If he's able to develop a game plan and share his knowledge with everyone else, HH will have a quick jump up the talent level and become most likely to finish third, but if Brice reads this, chances are he had no plans to before hand nor knows what to say to them now. HH have a good crop of players, and started off well in 4orce, so the possibility is there to continue the success this season.
What separates them from the other two: Upset ability
Key Players: Brice, Matt, Steve
Best case record: 7-6
Probable record: 5-8
Atlantic Conference
First - For The Win
It's always difficult to think a defending champion cannot do it again, and with Danielle & Co. seemingly only getting stronger, the message shown by For The Win is quite simple, we're the best, deal with it. So good indeed, Ant isn't as important anymore. Yes he is good, but with recent acquisitions for them, he can lose and no one on the team will be sweating. As long as Danielle can keep everyone interested for the entire season, the season should be a breeze for them.
Key Players: Ant, Brian, Stephen
Best case record: 13-0
Probable record: 11-2
Second - Break and Run
The usual suspect to always be battling for the top spot, Break and Run come in unchanged as usual so there isn't much to stay. The usual crop of Jordy, Mina and Ross will be looked upon to lead this team into the playoffs once again, and with the help of Mike and Lisa, and Gus when he does show. There is never much depth on this team, which has always almost hurt them, but never has, but can you really rely on the same 6-7 players over ~3 years and expect the same success? So far Ross has been able to.
Key Players: Gus, Jordy, Mina
Best case record: 12-1
Probable record: 9-4
Third - Rack Dem Up
A Thomas Podmore league in PRO? I recall writing about his leagues in other leagues lasting no more than half a season, but it seems that this league has been stable for quite some time, and with Jess by his side, this creates a stable environment unseen by Thomas. The type of players Thomas has, has always been the same though with an inconsistent group of "no where else to go". Which is good and bad, good in the sense that returning players with poor histories will come here first, bad in the sense that they bring the same poor attitude and will jump ship whenever it rains. Again, Jess brings the stability that I believe can lead RDU to not only a full season in a proper interleague, but post-season opportunity.
Key Players: Cam, handkrash, Thomas
Best case record: 10-3
Probable record: 7-6
Fourth - Pool Dragonz
Always a team that everyone enjoys playing with, Pool Dragonz returns to PRO and with the apparent merge of Joes league, they finally have depth. Charles & Joe will be leading this team with average expectations, but the real ability to upset some of the top teams. The quality of players usually brought to the table by PDZ are not full of big names, but rather 5 quality names that at any given night, can upset any team. PDZ may have the best history of quality upsets, and as long as Joe, their captain, is able to play this season and not turn it into something poltical, PDZ have a realistic chance of being able to defeat any team beyond DS & FTW.
Key Players: Charles, Joe, Rob
Best case record: 8-5
Probable record: 5-8
Fifth - Pool Hall Pros
Always sucks having to put a team in last, but as a realist, that is how I see it today. Last season PHP showed minimal success with Trio and Joe living up to none of their talk. But with them gone, it doesn't seem like it will get any better. The usual players of Bev, Damo and Razzy will do their best with the new help of Maria and Mikey, and while PHP have a similar situation to PDZ in terms of being able to upset most teams, they really are lacking depth that I can see that will help and allow them challenge for a playoff spot. Best of luck this season though.
Key Players: Damo, Mikey, Razzy
Best case record: 6-7
Probable record: 3-10
Atlantic Conference
First - Dead Strokes
First predictor not to rag on DS and their recruiting methods? I'll try. Coming off a season in which they were runners-up in the playoffs, and other interleague seasons where they were runners-up as well, hard to pick any other spot for them than to repeat as a finals contender. With the likes of Luis B. and Ashton more or less fully retired, Omar will now lean on other old school players who have returned in Ogges and TJ. The fact he has allowed Craig to captain makes me ponder the decision and looking down the road, if Craig is expected to captain the entire season, there may be quite some turmoil on the team. The last time he was in PRO there was the apparent aimering in the all-star match so not sure what Roy is thinking, but Craig is a dynamite player that can possible put DS over their finals hump and give them that trophy they desire.
Key Players: Craig, Pommy, Omar
Best case record: 13-0
Probable record: 11-2
Second - Straight Shots
Depth has never, ever been an issue for Straight Shots, but coming into this season, it seems they've finally gotten something they've been missing over the past few seasons: solid players. The likes of Dustin, Kenny and Saf are great for Shelle & co. With the SSCam season boasting their own player in the Division B finals, that depth that has been talked about since day one has finally grown and now their depth of the past, is finally quality depth and Straight Shots should be able to compete for the top spot over all if they are able to find consistent play.
Key Players: Dustin, Kenny, Saf
Best case record: 12-2
Probable record: 9-4
This is where things get interesting as any of these teams can grab that final playoff spot for their own reasons.
Most likely to finish third - Freedom
From 13-0, to missing the playoffs, and this prediction like other predictors have noted, is purely based on Pete. The WPC roster Freedom has is basically Break and Run + Pete (Pete is eligible in Break and Run too, why not just BNR?), their 4orce roster is nothing like Freedom has had in seasons past and looking at their roster from the last half of UIC last season, Pete is in trouble with players. Consistently, I see him having DJ, Ash and Tim almost every week, beyond that I feel the depth of west_coast_guy420 and... I literally cannot find another ID that seems to show every now and then for Freedom. Pete has the ability to gain top-flight players, and there is the chance that his old players come back for one more whirl but Freedom is the X-Factor this season, any record for them is imaginable.
What separates them from the other two: Experience
Key Players: Pete
Best case record: 9-4
Probable record: 6-7
Second most likely to finish third - 8BallCrushers
A team I love predicting, Andrew brings 8BC back for another whirl of things. Last season they saw success on an individual level with different players coming out in their limited time taking over for who ever withdrew. 8BC is a real active league, and a real nice league too. The players they bring are people you have the ability to talk to for hours after and just great people over all. You won't get any drama with this league and every match is quality as Andrew is able to bring solid players to the table. They can compete against any league and while they miss the "knock-out" factor of a top notch player, they have guys that can get on a roll any night.
What separates them from the other two: Consistent depth
Key Players: Andrew, Dawn.
Best case record: 8-6
Probable record: 5-8
Least likely to finish third - Harley Hustlers
HH is a tight group lead by Steve, full of great people he has gotten this league a lot of recognition for being great people to play with, and being quite active as well. With SP falling, Steve has been able to acquire Brice for some much needed experience, kind of. Brice has experience, but just doesn't use it. If he's able to develop a game plan and share his knowledge with everyone else, HH will have a quick jump up the talent level and become most likely to finish third, but if Brice reads this, chances are he had no plans to before hand nor knows what to say to them now. HH have a good crop of players, and started off well in 4orce, so the possibility is there to continue the success this season.
What separates them from the other two: Upset ability
Key Players: Brice, Matt, Steve
Best case record: 7-6
Probable record: 5-8
Monday, July 9, 2012
Season 14 Finals
For The Win [8-3] vs Dead Strokes [7-4]
Best line up:
For the Win: Ant, Dante, Jeremy, Simon, Stephen
Dead Strokes: Ashton, Luis, Luis, Omar, Rees
How they got here:
For the Win: 5-2 over Break and Run
Dead Strokes: 5-0 over Straight Shots
Season match-up: For The Win 5-4. Ashton went 3-1, Stephen went 3-0.
The drama associated with the finalists:
For the Win: Ant plays more than once.
Dead Strokes: No one else made it because they recruited everyone.
What it will come down to: Danielle needs her boys to show up, more than just Ant as well. Players like Stephen need to show, and be on their game if they look to take this series. Both sides won their respective conferences, so this mini season will alleviate some pressure the face from a one-and-done series, but both sides had poor streaks during the season, and if either team thinks the finals will be as easy as the semis, they'll need to think again.
Dead Strokes will no doubt be firing on all cylinders with their big guns showing as they have all season. Players like Ashton, Luis, Luis and Omar will have to be on form and shrug off the pressure they face against more established interleague veterans. In a best of 3, consistency is key and with such talented rosters, not caring one night might seal the fate of the entire week. Both teams will no doubt have 1-2 players that no one wants to face, so it'll be up to other players to step up and be that third who plays to not be beat, and help their team bring home the gold.
Prediction:
Match 1: 5-4 DS
Match 2: 5-3 FTW
Match 3: 5-3 FTW
Best line up:
For the Win: Ant, Dante, Jeremy, Simon, Stephen
Dead Strokes: Ashton, Luis, Luis, Omar, Rees
How they got here:
For the Win: 5-2 over Break and Run
Dead Strokes: 5-0 over Straight Shots
Season match-up: For The Win 5-4. Ashton went 3-1, Stephen went 3-0.
The drama associated with the finalists:
For the Win: Ant plays more than once.
Dead Strokes: No one else made it because they recruited everyone.
What it will come down to: Danielle needs her boys to show up, more than just Ant as well. Players like Stephen need to show, and be on their game if they look to take this series. Both sides won their respective conferences, so this mini season will alleviate some pressure the face from a one-and-done series, but both sides had poor streaks during the season, and if either team thinks the finals will be as easy as the semis, they'll need to think again.
Dead Strokes will no doubt be firing on all cylinders with their big guns showing as they have all season. Players like Ashton, Luis, Luis and Omar will have to be on form and shrug off the pressure they face against more established interleague veterans. In a best of 3, consistency is key and with such talented rosters, not caring one night might seal the fate of the entire week. Both teams will no doubt have 1-2 players that no one wants to face, so it'll be up to other players to step up and be that third who plays to not be beat, and help their team bring home the gold.
Prediction:
Match 1: 5-4 DS
Match 2: 5-3 FTW
Match 3: 5-3 FTW
Monday, July 2, 2012
Round One
An exciting season to say the least as in the Atlantic Conference we had a more improbable finish compared to the Pacific. The Atlantic Conference saw the two finalists completely miss out on the playoffs altogether, possibly due to some questionable player calling by Dead Strokes in the final week, while the Pacific Conference certainly had the two best teams finish at the top, leading up to an exciting playoff round.
Straight Shots [5-5] @ Dead Strokes [6-4]
Season match-ups: Week 3, DS 5-2. Week 10, SS 5-2.
Best line up
Dead Strokes: Ashton, Luis, Luis, Omar, Rees
Straight Shots: Bryan, Dustin, Jay, JJ, Pita
What it will come down to: Dead Strokes will have talent at the table, no question about it, so it hinges on who Straight Shots are able to bring. With Pita basically being thrown out of Straight Shots, it doesn't seem like it holds well for the team.
That being said, Straight Shots do have the support of every one outside of Dead Strokes in this match after the final weeks questionable match. It was a smart play by DS if they did indeed toss the match, pathetic as well, but Straight Shots were labelled as easy in that match by DS. DS wanted to play them, DS in their eyes thinks there is no way they can lose to this team. But in a one match play-off, anything can happen and after failing to win 4orce, the pressure is truly on for Dead Strokes as this is their third attempt in their current stacked state to win a title. We all know I've been a fan of the Super Straight Shots for years now, but I think Dead Strokes made the right call and should take one step closer to their ultimate goal.
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes.
Break and Run [6-4] @ For The Win [7-3]
Season match-ups: Week 1, 5-0 FTW. Week 8, 5-2 BNR.
Best line up
Break and Run: Gus, Jordy, Mike, Mina, Ross.
For the Win: Ant, Dante, Jeremy, Simon, Stephen.
What it will come down to: Who shows for For The Win. This is a classic case of an interleague league, not having played in a few weeks (WPC and 4orce seasons ending early), so their team might be all over the place. Break and Run always have a consistent line up, so those 5 should be there without issue.
If FTW cannot bring a solid 5 to the table, this may spell trouble. This almost identical line-up as seasons past for Break and Run is talked about a threat in the playoffs every season. The patience Break and Run possess is scary, FTW need to be able to stay collected and know that a loss spells the end of their season. While it's hard to bet against Ant, I feel Break and Run as a whole will be better suited for this match up.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
Straight Shots [5-5] @ Dead Strokes [6-4]
Season match-ups: Week 3, DS 5-2. Week 10, SS 5-2.
Best line up
Dead Strokes: Ashton, Luis, Luis, Omar, Rees
Straight Shots: Bryan, Dustin, Jay, JJ, Pita
What it will come down to: Dead Strokes will have talent at the table, no question about it, so it hinges on who Straight Shots are able to bring. With Pita basically being thrown out of Straight Shots, it doesn't seem like it holds well for the team.
That being said, Straight Shots do have the support of every one outside of Dead Strokes in this match after the final weeks questionable match. It was a smart play by DS if they did indeed toss the match, pathetic as well, but Straight Shots were labelled as easy in that match by DS. DS wanted to play them, DS in their eyes thinks there is no way they can lose to this team. But in a one match play-off, anything can happen and after failing to win 4orce, the pressure is truly on for Dead Strokes as this is their third attempt in their current stacked state to win a title. We all know I've been a fan of the Super Straight Shots for years now, but I think Dead Strokes made the right call and should take one step closer to their ultimate goal.
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes.
Break and Run [6-4] @ For The Win [7-3]
Season match-ups: Week 1, 5-0 FTW. Week 8, 5-2 BNR.
Best line up
Break and Run: Gus, Jordy, Mike, Mina, Ross.
For the Win: Ant, Dante, Jeremy, Simon, Stephen.
What it will come down to: Who shows for For The Win. This is a classic case of an interleague league, not having played in a few weeks (WPC and 4orce seasons ending early), so their team might be all over the place. Break and Run always have a consistent line up, so those 5 should be there without issue.
If FTW cannot bring a solid 5 to the table, this may spell trouble. This almost identical line-up as seasons past for Break and Run is talked about a threat in the playoffs every season. The patience Break and Run possess is scary, FTW need to be able to stay collected and know that a loss spells the end of their season. While it's hard to bet against Ant, I feel Break and Run as a whole will be better suited for this match up.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
Saturday, June 16, 2012
Week Ten
Monday @ 7pm - Freedom [4-5] vs Sexy Poolerz [4-5]
With both sides knowing a loss will be the end of their season, the two finalists from last season will hope to renew their new rivalry in a win-or-go-home scenario. For Freedom, they've been on fire since their 0-3 start with a 4-2 record, including a 5-4 loss. The key to their turn around has been those who should be winning, finally are, and seeing as how most of their roster can carry on any given night, it's about time. For Sexy Poolerz, after a hot 4-2 start and seemingly running away with the conference along with Dead Strokes, a 3 match losing streak is a tough site for the reigning champions. Their team has slowly been falling apart and as previously said, with rumors of many players already finding new homes for next season, will they be able to have one last hoorah? Chances are that they probably will not, unless the likes of Lewis and Brent are around. The roster they have been showing with, while good, just isn't good enough to carry against the most elite competition around. But that's no reason to write them off with such experience in their background, a win for them isn't something you shouldn't expect. While I called out 3 players for Freedom last week, only one showed, but thankfully for Pete, Mike was able to carry against Dead Strokes, keeping their playoff hopes alive. If Pete is able to show with the big guns in Adam, Ben, Conor and Trav, this should be theirs.
Prediction - 5-3 Freedom
Tuesday @ 7pm - Straight Shots [4-5] vs Dead Strokes [6-3]
Straight Shots, a team known for their upsets sure could use one this week. Coming into this week, the playoffs aren't out of the picture of them, but could use a few things to go their way to get in, the first of which is defeating Dead Strokes. A tough 9 game loss to Freedom last week, Dead Strokes should be out this week, ready to send a message to the rest of PRO that they are indeed the team to beat in PRO. While the match is meaningless, falling again to 6-4 really creates the image Dead Strokes not being the team to beat and would really wouldn't be a good thing for them heading forward, while that 7th win would show they are the team to beat. Players like Ashton, Luis, Luis and Omar should be too much for Straight Shots too handle and Rees should be pleased they are heading into the playoffs on a good note.
Prediction - 5-2 Dead Strokes
Tuesday @ 7pm - Break and Run [5-4] vs Pool Hall Pros [5-4]
Another match of two squads tied for the final playoff spot, simply put. Winner gets in, losers go home. So who has the advantage? Well on paper, you would have to give it to Break and Run with such studs as Gus, Jordy, Croz, and Mina. But while in the past they have been great, this season they haven't had the best of seasons. On paper, Pool Hall Pros aren't supposed to be this good, but they are due to team efforts every week. Apart from Candi, no one has a stand out record because different players seem to be winning 2-3 games every week. Pool Hall Pros will be good this week, a good team effort is expected, but which Break and Run squad will we see? The one with Jordy, Gus, Mike and Ross all winning? Or the one where it's up to one guy to carry the load? Chances are, Break and Run will come out firing and carry some heavy momentum into the playoffs.
Prediction - 5-4 Break and Run
Wednesday @ 7pm - For The Win [6-3] vs 8Ball Crushers [1-2]
Not much to say about this match up, For The Win shouldn't have much issue winning this as they look to clinch top spot in the conference and home field for the first round. Simon needs to play to get eligible, other than that the usuals should show for Danielle. 8BC have had a good start to their PRO experience post-Danielle era. Josh I'm sure has enjoyed PRO thus far, while the rest of his teammates are trying to keep up on the learning curve. Will there be bad blood? I doubt it, should be a quiet match. Up and down, For The Win completely outmatch 8BC, hopefully they are able to win a few to keep it interesting enough. 8BC have a good base and with a few stud transfers pending the collapse of a team or two this season, next season could be great for Josh and the rest of his team.
Prediction - 5-1 For The Win
Monday, June 11, 2012
Week Nine
Monday @ 7pm - Sexy Poolerz [4-4] vs Straight Shots [3-5]
Both sides are coming in on a bit of a slump at the wrong time with just two matches remaining. Sexy Poolerz seem to have some issue going on around them, but it really isn't an issue, they are the defending champions for a reason and their roster is still quite similar. Straight Shots on the other hand, are much different from last season and despite their hot start, they have been brutal as of late but with a strong tourny showing on the weekend, the next two weeks might not be a write off for Straight Shots. The suspects for SP to show and carry for them are the usuals, while for SS, I think Pita and JJ will take anyone other than themselves to step up and win 1-2 games, and there's a gut feeling that SS can do it this week and make next week quite interesting.
Prediction - 5-3 Straight Shots
Monday @ 7pm - Pool Hall Pros [5-3] vs For The Win [5-3]
While tied in record, it's hard to imagine these two sides close. Pool Hall Pros have been a great story this season, with the likes of Candi, Ifran and Tommy carrying the load with great support throughout the season, but they'll need a great effort from all their entire roster this week if they look to pull into first, surprising just about everyone. For Danielle & co., it's quite simple, put the past behind you and get into your early season form. The likes of Ant, Dante, and Stephen will be too much for Sean & co. to take on.
Prediction - 5-2 For The Win
Tuesday @ 7pm - Dead Strokes [6-2] vs Freedom [3-5]
Drama and records aside, this side will show case some heavy hitters. Dead Strokes may be thin on depth from their methods, but the talent they have is some of the best in the game. With players like Andy, Conor and Travis seemingly done from interleagues, the focus turns heavily to Adam, Pete and Scotty to carry the load. If those three are able to show, along with the likes of Ben and Nish, this match could go down to the wire. Dead Strokes, with the likes of Ashton, Luis, Omar, Nick and Rees, will give Freedom a run for their money here. This match will come down to which side has more patience, and while Freedom may not have their best 5 here, I think the nod will have to go to the more experienced side.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Tuesday @ 7pm - 8BallCrushers [1-2] vs Break and Run [4-4]
8BC had a rough go at it last week without Josh at the table, and fell quickly, and this week may follow the same path. Break and Run are getting back into old classic form, and just in time. With a win, Ross & co. will be guaranteed a tie for a playoff spot, setting up a very interesting final week, while a loss makes it all the more stressful for them. Quickly put, even with Josh and their best, Break and Run will be too strong for a new 8BC squad who look to be adding experience for future seasons.
Prediction - 5-1 Break and Run
Both sides are coming in on a bit of a slump at the wrong time with just two matches remaining. Sexy Poolerz seem to have some issue going on around them, but it really isn't an issue, they are the defending champions for a reason and their roster is still quite similar. Straight Shots on the other hand, are much different from last season and despite their hot start, they have been brutal as of late but with a strong tourny showing on the weekend, the next two weeks might not be a write off for Straight Shots. The suspects for SP to show and carry for them are the usuals, while for SS, I think Pita and JJ will take anyone other than themselves to step up and win 1-2 games, and there's a gut feeling that SS can do it this week and make next week quite interesting.
Prediction - 5-3 Straight Shots
Monday @ 7pm - Pool Hall Pros [5-3] vs For The Win [5-3]
While tied in record, it's hard to imagine these two sides close. Pool Hall Pros have been a great story this season, with the likes of Candi, Ifran and Tommy carrying the load with great support throughout the season, but they'll need a great effort from all their entire roster this week if they look to pull into first, surprising just about everyone. For Danielle & co., it's quite simple, put the past behind you and get into your early season form. The likes of Ant, Dante, and Stephen will be too much for Sean & co. to take on.
Prediction - 5-2 For The Win
Tuesday @ 7pm - Dead Strokes [6-2] vs Freedom [3-5]
Drama and records aside, this side will show case some heavy hitters. Dead Strokes may be thin on depth from their methods, but the talent they have is some of the best in the game. With players like Andy, Conor and Travis seemingly done from interleagues, the focus turns heavily to Adam, Pete and Scotty to carry the load. If those three are able to show, along with the likes of Ben and Nish, this match could go down to the wire. Dead Strokes, with the likes of Ashton, Luis, Omar, Nick and Rees, will give Freedom a run for their money here. This match will come down to which side has more patience, and while Freedom may not have their best 5 here, I think the nod will have to go to the more experienced side.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Tuesday @ 7pm - 8BallCrushers [1-2] vs Break and Run [4-4]
8BC had a rough go at it last week without Josh at the table, and fell quickly, and this week may follow the same path. Break and Run are getting back into old classic form, and just in time. With a win, Ross & co. will be guaranteed a tie for a playoff spot, setting up a very interesting final week, while a loss makes it all the more stressful for them. Quickly put, even with Josh and their best, Break and Run will be too strong for a new 8BC squad who look to be adding experience for future seasons.
Prediction - 5-1 Break and Run
Tuesday, June 5, 2012
Week Eight
Freedom [2-5] vs Straight Shots [3-4]
Both teams need to come out firing this week. Players like Pita, Petey, Ben, Jay, Nish and JJ all need to play to their fullest if either team looks to get a much needed win. A loss for Freedom spells the end of their season, while a win for SS sure would make the playoff race much more interesting. Based off how poorly this match-up faired for Freedom the first time around, Pete should be able to keep his team drama-free so they can focus on the game instead of bitching. Straight Shots have been up and down lately, but their ups have been close and their downs not so much, so Freedom should be able to pull this one out of the bag.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Dead Strokes [5-2] vs Sexy Poolerz [4-3]
The battle of the two Atlantic playoff teams show two teams going in completely different directions. Last season DS were "ok", while SP won it all from swell recruiting, but with a few players from SP ditching SP or not playing as much anymore, and DS recruiting players from all over, the story has switched as Dead Strokes are the safest bet to win PRO this season, while no one is really taking Sexy Poolerz all that seriously. The big wins from SP have been from players like Lewis and Brent carrying solo, while DS have been on a path of destruction all over. SP though however, are good in the clutch and DS have never been in such a situation before, so their growing egos may get the best of them here.
Prediction - 5-4 Sexy Poolerz
Break and Run [3-4] vs For The Win [5-2]
After a bad start, Break and Run have turned it up as of late and find themselves back in the thick of it, while For The Win have stumbled as of late going 1-2 but are still the safe bet to win the conference and now have Ant back apparently. For The Win have many good players that show every week, while for Break and Run it seems like it's a crap shoot who will show and who won't. Croz, Jordy and Ross are all playing under their potential by far and it really is hurting them, while For The Win's struggles don't really matter since they're still sitting pretty and shouldn't have an issue moving forward. Though with Gus turning it on last week and the fact that Croz, Jordy and Ross simply can't struggle all season long, I'm going to have to go with a second upset and pick Break and Run here.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
8Ball Crushers [2-5] vs Pool Hall Pros [4-3]
Two solid teams meet here as the newbies in 8bc ran their record to 1-1 last week with a good 5-4 win over Straight Shots, while Pool Hall Pros did the best in the cross conference portion going an astonishing 3-1, 3 more than most would have guessed. So are they for real? After Candi, no one stands out, which is good as this team has been winning as just that, a team and haven't had to rely on one or two people to carry for their wins. 8BC on the flip side did heavily rely on Josh last week and may have to again this week. Many of the 8bc players are newer to interleagues, so their play style isn't as well known by many, but PHP have many players that are diverse and can adapt to tapping, running, etc. so 8bc will be in tough this week.
Prediction - 5-3 Pool Hall Pros
Both teams need to come out firing this week. Players like Pita, Petey, Ben, Jay, Nish and JJ all need to play to their fullest if either team looks to get a much needed win. A loss for Freedom spells the end of their season, while a win for SS sure would make the playoff race much more interesting. Based off how poorly this match-up faired for Freedom the first time around, Pete should be able to keep his team drama-free so they can focus on the game instead of bitching. Straight Shots have been up and down lately, but their ups have been close and their downs not so much, so Freedom should be able to pull this one out of the bag.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Dead Strokes [5-2] vs Sexy Poolerz [4-3]
The battle of the two Atlantic playoff teams show two teams going in completely different directions. Last season DS were "ok", while SP won it all from swell recruiting, but with a few players from SP ditching SP or not playing as much anymore, and DS recruiting players from all over, the story has switched as Dead Strokes are the safest bet to win PRO this season, while no one is really taking Sexy Poolerz all that seriously. The big wins from SP have been from players like Lewis and Brent carrying solo, while DS have been on a path of destruction all over. SP though however, are good in the clutch and DS have never been in such a situation before, so their growing egos may get the best of them here.
Prediction - 5-4 Sexy Poolerz
Break and Run [3-4] vs For The Win [5-2]
After a bad start, Break and Run have turned it up as of late and find themselves back in the thick of it, while For The Win have stumbled as of late going 1-2 but are still the safe bet to win the conference and now have Ant back apparently. For The Win have many good players that show every week, while for Break and Run it seems like it's a crap shoot who will show and who won't. Croz, Jordy and Ross are all playing under their potential by far and it really is hurting them, while For The Win's struggles don't really matter since they're still sitting pretty and shouldn't have an issue moving forward. Though with Gus turning it on last week and the fact that Croz, Jordy and Ross simply can't struggle all season long, I'm going to have to go with a second upset and pick Break and Run here.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
8Ball Crushers [2-5] vs Pool Hall Pros [4-3]
Two solid teams meet here as the newbies in 8bc ran their record to 1-1 last week with a good 5-4 win over Straight Shots, while Pool Hall Pros did the best in the cross conference portion going an astonishing 3-1, 3 more than most would have guessed. So are they for real? After Candi, no one stands out, which is good as this team has been winning as just that, a team and haven't had to rely on one or two people to carry for their wins. 8BC on the flip side did heavily rely on Josh last week and may have to again this week. Many of the 8bc players are newer to interleagues, so their play style isn't as well known by many, but PHP have many players that are diverse and can adapt to tapping, running, etc. so 8bc will be in tough this week.
Prediction - 5-3 Pool Hall Pros
Monday, May 28, 2012
Rivalry Week (7)
Monday - Sexy Poolerz [4-2] vs Pool Hall Pros [3-3]
Sexy Poolerz come into the match after a good win last week to get themselves back into the win column. Pool Hall Pros come into this match after a big upset defeating Freedom in just 7 games. The key in this match up will be if Pool Hall Pros can bring their best 5, if they can then another win is certainly achievable, otherwise SP will have too much fire power to overcome.
Prediction - 5-3 Sexy Poolerz
Monday - Freedom [2-4] vs Break and Run [2-4]
While this may be the oldest rivalry we have this week, the days of bad blood haven't been seen for quite some time, but with both teams on the outside looking in on a super-frustrating season, who knows what this match will have in store for us. Both teams have played very poorly this season and for one team this week, it'll eliminate their chance at finishing above .500 for the season. There is no doubt in my eyes that both times will come out guns a blazing to try and save what's left of their season. Pete needs to buckle down with his player selection and Jordy needs to buckle down and destroy opponents. A lot of buckling to be done, but only one belt.
Prediction - 5-3 Freedom
Tuesday - Dead Strokes [5-1] vs For The Win [4-2]
As the wins keep coming, the egos keep growing in Dead Strokes, but so far have been some-what deserved with their destruction of PRO in the past 6 weeks. But this week they'll be playing against a squad that has never lost 3 in a row before and I doubt they'll want to. Last week apparently FTW had a few DQ's go against them, couple that with the loss to Freedom the week before and Danielle will be doing her best to rage her boys to a win. While Dead Strokes has a lot of new talent, they should take a tumble this week.
Prediction - 5-4 For The Win.
Tuesday - Straight Shots [3-3] vs 8ball Crushers [1-5]
With out having to worry about Jon now, Straight Shots can get back to focusing on trying to catch SP and DS for a playoff spot as they surprisingly sit just one game back. 8Ball Crushers had a rough week last week against Dead Strokes, but with basically a new team, they gain the experience needed for a winnable match this week. If the likes of Pita, Jay and JJ can play well this week, then it should be more than enough for SS to win this week, otherwise this could go down to the wire and be a toss up.
Prediction - 5-3 Straight Shots
Sexy Poolerz come into the match after a good win last week to get themselves back into the win column. Pool Hall Pros come into this match after a big upset defeating Freedom in just 7 games. The key in this match up will be if Pool Hall Pros can bring their best 5, if they can then another win is certainly achievable, otherwise SP will have too much fire power to overcome.
Prediction - 5-3 Sexy Poolerz
Monday - Freedom [2-4] vs Break and Run [2-4]
While this may be the oldest rivalry we have this week, the days of bad blood haven't been seen for quite some time, but with both teams on the outside looking in on a super-frustrating season, who knows what this match will have in store for us. Both teams have played very poorly this season and for one team this week, it'll eliminate their chance at finishing above .500 for the season. There is no doubt in my eyes that both times will come out guns a blazing to try and save what's left of their season. Pete needs to buckle down with his player selection and Jordy needs to buckle down and destroy opponents. A lot of buckling to be done, but only one belt.
Prediction - 5-3 Freedom
Tuesday - Dead Strokes [5-1] vs For The Win [4-2]
As the wins keep coming, the egos keep growing in Dead Strokes, but so far have been some-what deserved with their destruction of PRO in the past 6 weeks. But this week they'll be playing against a squad that has never lost 3 in a row before and I doubt they'll want to. Last week apparently FTW had a few DQ's go against them, couple that with the loss to Freedom the week before and Danielle will be doing her best to rage her boys to a win. While Dead Strokes has a lot of new talent, they should take a tumble this week.
Prediction - 5-4 For The Win.
Tuesday - Straight Shots [3-3] vs 8ball Crushers [1-5]
With out having to worry about Jon now, Straight Shots can get back to focusing on trying to catch SP and DS for a playoff spot as they surprisingly sit just one game back. 8Ball Crushers had a rough week last week against Dead Strokes, but with basically a new team, they gain the experience needed for a winnable match this week. If the likes of Pita, Jay and JJ can play well this week, then it should be more than enough for SS to win this week, otherwise this could go down to the wire and be a toss up.
Prediction - 5-3 Straight Shots
Monday, May 21, 2012
Week Six
Half way through the season, the competition has been fierce and there has been a few surprises thus far.
Before the season started, my predicted standings were:
Atlantic Conference:
1st - Freedom (3rd)
2nd - Dead Strokes (1st)
3rd - Sexy Poolerz (2nd)
4th - Straight Shots (4th)
Pacific Conference:
1st - For The Win (1st)
2nd - Break and Run (3rd)
3rd - New Era (4th)
4th - Pool Hall Pros (2nd)
The two big surprises half way are Freedom in the Atlantic, and Pool Hall Pros in the Pacific, and wouldn't you know it, they play this week!
Monday @ 7pm - Straight Shots [2-3] vs For The Win [4-1]
Three weeks ago, Straight Shots were on top of the world, rather just PRO, but still! Since starting off 2-0, Straight Shots have really cooled off and haven't been firing on many cylinders at all. JJ and Jay were the talk of PRO after their hot start, but have since stuttered along. Jay has gone 0-0 in the losing streak and JJ 2-3 I believe. They were the only two reasons Straight Shots got off to a hot start, and since others on the team haven't been able to pick up the slack, it's no wonder Straight Shots are falling. What Straight Shots needs to do is simple, get their better players easy wins early on if they look to move forward. Anyone who has seen Pita on a roll knows what I'm talking about, he just needs to get on that roll. Joe can surprise anyone at any time, he just needs to gain consistency for Straight Shots if they look to bounce back and hold tight in the playoff race. For Danielle & co., it's pretty simple. Show up. Their loss last week really means nothing apart from not achieving a flawless season. They still should have no issue moving forward with players like Ant, Daz, Jeremy and Stephen. Danielle may want to look at adding some late season depth as she moves forward. Even with a loss, Straight Shots can still be able to rebound with a strong performance and feel good about their chances moving forward.
Prediction - 5-2 For The Win
Tuesday @ 7pm - Sexy Poolerz [3-2] vs Break and Run [2-3]
After poor starts by both their standards, both Sexy Poolerz and Break and Run have bounced back with 2-1 records in their past 3, giving us an exciting match between two hot sides. With the loss of Scotty, someone in Sexy Poolerz needed to step up and thus far it has been the kid brainiac in Brent. 5-2 in 4 matches puts him in a position to get double digit wins by the end of the season, something we could all predict and it's good to see he has stepped up for his team. While his support hasn't been the greatest, they've been able to get it done when it's counted. If Lewis is able to play more consistently and Roy is able to get back to his old form, this team could very well repeat last seasons efforts. Despite Jordy being Jordy, Break and Run hasn't been able to support him like seasons past. Players like Croz and Ross, the usually suspects to help him out just haven't been able to get it going. While the addition of Gus certainly helps their chances in making the playoffs, Ross will need to start bringing a solid game plan to the match if he looks to push past .500 and get into the playoffs. Not sure why, but I have a feeling both these sides will be 3-3 by the weekend.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
Tuesday @ 7pm - Dead Strokes [4-1] vs New Era [1-4]
Dead Strokes have been superb thus far in the season, stacking their team to the brim with talent to compete with the likes of For The Win, Freedom and Sexy Poolerz, and with two of those teams in their conference, it's a good thing. Ashton has finally been able to show consistently proving his worth as an MVP candidate, and now with the likes of Luis, Luis, Jose, Nick, Rees and even Roy, Dead Strokes is not only scary, but deep. New Era, if they show they'll give them a game, they could probably win too, but it's been an unfortunate experiment for Jon to say the least.
Prediction - 5-0 Dead Strokes
Thursday @ 7pm - Freedom [2-3] vs Pool Hall Pros [2-3]
Two teams predicted to have polar opposite seasons find themselves in relative territory. With 2-3 records, Pool Hall Pros shouldn't feel too bad for themselves as they sit second, something not many thought of. On the other side, Freedom with 3 losses in the same season? It wasn't since the days of Season 9 and 10 where Pete had no one on his team did they have so many losses. Freedom has turned it on as of late though, with back to back big wins and making sure they are still the only undefeated team in PRO. Pete was able to lead by example last week with a 3-0 showing, and while he may not need to be as good this week, underestimating Pool Hall Pros would be a big mistake. Despite their record that many think is too good for them, it really isn't. Trio, whether you like it or not is actually a good player, not great, but a lot better than his 1-4 record may suggest. Candi, Sergio, Tommy and Rocky are all capable of taking over matches, and Sean will need them to be at their best in the second half of the season as they look to fend off Break and Run and try and snag a #1 spot away from For The Win. Pete will no doubt look to add to his record and bring a squad good enough to make SP worry over that second playoff spot.
Prediction - 5-2 Freedom
Before the season started, my predicted standings were:
Atlantic Conference:
1st - Freedom (3rd)
2nd - Dead Strokes (1st)
3rd - Sexy Poolerz (2nd)
4th - Straight Shots (4th)
Pacific Conference:
1st - For The Win (1st)
2nd - Break and Run (3rd)
3rd - New Era (4th)
4th - Pool Hall Pros (2nd)
The two big surprises half way are Freedom in the Atlantic, and Pool Hall Pros in the Pacific, and wouldn't you know it, they play this week!
Monday @ 7pm - Straight Shots [2-3] vs For The Win [4-1]
Three weeks ago, Straight Shots were on top of the world, rather just PRO, but still! Since starting off 2-0, Straight Shots have really cooled off and haven't been firing on many cylinders at all. JJ and Jay were the talk of PRO after their hot start, but have since stuttered along. Jay has gone 0-0 in the losing streak and JJ 2-3 I believe. They were the only two reasons Straight Shots got off to a hot start, and since others on the team haven't been able to pick up the slack, it's no wonder Straight Shots are falling. What Straight Shots needs to do is simple, get their better players easy wins early on if they look to move forward. Anyone who has seen Pita on a roll knows what I'm talking about, he just needs to get on that roll. Joe can surprise anyone at any time, he just needs to gain consistency for Straight Shots if they look to bounce back and hold tight in the playoff race. For Danielle & co., it's pretty simple. Show up. Their loss last week really means nothing apart from not achieving a flawless season. They still should have no issue moving forward with players like Ant, Daz, Jeremy and Stephen. Danielle may want to look at adding some late season depth as she moves forward. Even with a loss, Straight Shots can still be able to rebound with a strong performance and feel good about their chances moving forward.
Prediction - 5-2 For The Win
Tuesday @ 7pm - Sexy Poolerz [3-2] vs Break and Run [2-3]
After poor starts by both their standards, both Sexy Poolerz and Break and Run have bounced back with 2-1 records in their past 3, giving us an exciting match between two hot sides. With the loss of Scotty, someone in Sexy Poolerz needed to step up and thus far it has been the kid brainiac in Brent. 5-2 in 4 matches puts him in a position to get double digit wins by the end of the season, something we could all predict and it's good to see he has stepped up for his team. While his support hasn't been the greatest, they've been able to get it done when it's counted. If Lewis is able to play more consistently and Roy is able to get back to his old form, this team could very well repeat last seasons efforts. Despite Jordy being Jordy, Break and Run hasn't been able to support him like seasons past. Players like Croz and Ross, the usually suspects to help him out just haven't been able to get it going. While the addition of Gus certainly helps their chances in making the playoffs, Ross will need to start bringing a solid game plan to the match if he looks to push past .500 and get into the playoffs. Not sure why, but I have a feeling both these sides will be 3-3 by the weekend.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
Tuesday @ 7pm - Dead Strokes [4-1] vs New Era [1-4]
Dead Strokes have been superb thus far in the season, stacking their team to the brim with talent to compete with the likes of For The Win, Freedom and Sexy Poolerz, and with two of those teams in their conference, it's a good thing. Ashton has finally been able to show consistently proving his worth as an MVP candidate, and now with the likes of Luis, Luis, Jose, Nick, Rees and even Roy, Dead Strokes is not only scary, but deep. New Era, if they show they'll give them a game, they could probably win too, but it's been an unfortunate experiment for Jon to say the least.
Prediction - 5-0 Dead Strokes
Thursday @ 7pm - Freedom [2-3] vs Pool Hall Pros [2-3]
Two teams predicted to have polar opposite seasons find themselves in relative territory. With 2-3 records, Pool Hall Pros shouldn't feel too bad for themselves as they sit second, something not many thought of. On the other side, Freedom with 3 losses in the same season? It wasn't since the days of Season 9 and 10 where Pete had no one on his team did they have so many losses. Freedom has turned it on as of late though, with back to back big wins and making sure they are still the only undefeated team in PRO. Pete was able to lead by example last week with a 3-0 showing, and while he may not need to be as good this week, underestimating Pool Hall Pros would be a big mistake. Despite their record that many think is too good for them, it really isn't. Trio, whether you like it or not is actually a good player, not great, but a lot better than his 1-4 record may suggest. Candi, Sergio, Tommy and Rocky are all capable of taking over matches, and Sean will need them to be at their best in the second half of the season as they look to fend off Break and Run and try and snag a #1 spot away from For The Win. Pete will no doubt look to add to his record and bring a squad good enough to make SP worry over that second playoff spot.
Prediction - 5-2 Freedom
Monday, May 14, 2012
Week Five
Monday @ 7pm - New Era [1-3] vs Sexy Poolerz [2-2]
New Era, New Era, New Era. Where to begin? They showed for the second time this season bringing their showing percentage up to par (50%), but they were swept by their opponents lowering their winning percentage to 25%. The significance of these stats? No where near what's considered a play off team. While New Era was created with high hopes and expectations from the early hype, it's hard to give Jon any credit for running an interleague team. Sure real life problems happen and all that, but that doesn't count as an excuse to give you a better rep as a internet leader, as useless as an internet leader is. Sexy Poolerz will come with a good five, lucky for Jon he already has a few eligible from last week so Sexy Poolerz will have a game on their hands. Would be nice for Jon to pick up a win going into the second half and give his team confidence for making the playoffs, I want to bet on New Era, but the safe bet is for Sexy Poolerz.
Prediction - 5-3 Sexy Poolerz
Tuesday @ 7pm - Pool Hall Pros [1-3] vs Straight Shots [2-2]
You say Maria's a hoe, I say you're jealous. Doesn't mean she's not though, but PHP do have some good players coming in which is good for Sean & co. since almighty Trio is as much as a God as my left big toe nail. After starting the season 2-0, Straight Shots have had a bit of a fall losing back to back games, probably due to the three J's not winning any more. Looking up and down the rosters, if both sides were to bring their best 5 it would be a great match going down to the wire. Both sides have had a lot of poor player from most of their support players, so this match up looks to be a good one for someone to break out and pad their stats, and I'll have to give the nod to Pool Hall Pro's who should end their 3 game skid.
Prediction - 5-4 Pool Hall Pros
Tuesday @ 7pm - Break and Run [2-2] vs Dead Strokes [3-1]
Quite a doozey in this match with the likes of Jordy and Gus up against the trio of Ashton, Luis and Jose. Dead Strokes have been an all around great team this season with Ashton stepping up to the plate looking for an MVP title and the emergence of Nick and Aaron as superb support players. Break and Runs turn around has been credited to Jordy, and no one else. Jordy is +4, only makes sense that Break and Run is +2 now. The come back of Gus is a big one for Break and Run as Jordy doesn't need to roll his eyes as he sees the losses pile up these days. This match will come down to if Gus shows, and how well he plays. Jordy alone is out matched and even with luck, probably cannot take down Dead Strokes, and his support players won't have the best of luck going down that road either. Gus, like his Spanish twin Daru, can take over matches single handily if he chooses too. Gus will need to win 2-3 games if Break and Run look to take down a strong Dead Strokes squad who look to run away with their conference.
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes
Thursday @ 7pm - For the Win [4-0] vs Freedom [1-3]
At the start of the season, this was supposed to be a 4-0 vs 4-0 match up, now it looks mighty lopsided looking at the records, but I doubt anyone thinks this match will be lopsided. Freedom turned things around last week with a 3-0 sweep over the short handed New Era squad. The word on the street is Freedom didn't miss a single shot in those 3 games that were played, which sure does seem to make up for all their mishaps in the previous 3 weeks. Players like Adam, Ben, and Conor (ABC) will need to continue their hot play if they look to help the team get back into the win column. For FTW, the equation is simple. Ant, Daz and Stephen will need to be there for Danielle, and on key if they look to topple a deep Freedom squad. With names like Scotty, Petey, Nish, Andy, Travis and Mike on top of the ABC combo, Petey knows he can bring an all-star line up in all 5 spots, and if Freedom does bring such a star-studded team, Danielle better hope Ant has some minutes on his phone.
Prediction - 5-3 Freedom
New Era, New Era, New Era. Where to begin? They showed for the second time this season bringing their showing percentage up to par (50%), but they were swept by their opponents lowering their winning percentage to 25%. The significance of these stats? No where near what's considered a play off team. While New Era was created with high hopes and expectations from the early hype, it's hard to give Jon any credit for running an interleague team. Sure real life problems happen and all that, but that doesn't count as an excuse to give you a better rep as a internet leader, as useless as an internet leader is. Sexy Poolerz will come with a good five, lucky for Jon he already has a few eligible from last week so Sexy Poolerz will have a game on their hands. Would be nice for Jon to pick up a win going into the second half and give his team confidence for making the playoffs, I want to bet on New Era, but the safe bet is for Sexy Poolerz.
Prediction - 5-3 Sexy Poolerz
Tuesday @ 7pm - Pool Hall Pros [1-3] vs Straight Shots [2-2]
You say Maria's a hoe, I say you're jealous. Doesn't mean she's not though, but PHP do have some good players coming in which is good for Sean & co. since almighty Trio is as much as a God as my left big toe nail. After starting the season 2-0, Straight Shots have had a bit of a fall losing back to back games, probably due to the three J's not winning any more. Looking up and down the rosters, if both sides were to bring their best 5 it would be a great match going down to the wire. Both sides have had a lot of poor player from most of their support players, so this match up looks to be a good one for someone to break out and pad their stats, and I'll have to give the nod to Pool Hall Pro's who should end their 3 game skid.
Prediction - 5-4 Pool Hall Pros
Tuesday @ 7pm - Break and Run [2-2] vs Dead Strokes [3-1]
Quite a doozey in this match with the likes of Jordy and Gus up against the trio of Ashton, Luis and Jose. Dead Strokes have been an all around great team this season with Ashton stepping up to the plate looking for an MVP title and the emergence of Nick and Aaron as superb support players. Break and Runs turn around has been credited to Jordy, and no one else. Jordy is +4, only makes sense that Break and Run is +2 now. The come back of Gus is a big one for Break and Run as Jordy doesn't need to roll his eyes as he sees the losses pile up these days. This match will come down to if Gus shows, and how well he plays. Jordy alone is out matched and even with luck, probably cannot take down Dead Strokes, and his support players won't have the best of luck going down that road either. Gus, like his Spanish twin Daru, can take over matches single handily if he chooses too. Gus will need to win 2-3 games if Break and Run look to take down a strong Dead Strokes squad who look to run away with their conference.
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes
Thursday @ 7pm - For the Win [4-0] vs Freedom [1-3]
At the start of the season, this was supposed to be a 4-0 vs 4-0 match up, now it looks mighty lopsided looking at the records, but I doubt anyone thinks this match will be lopsided. Freedom turned things around last week with a 3-0 sweep over the short handed New Era squad. The word on the street is Freedom didn't miss a single shot in those 3 games that were played, which sure does seem to make up for all their mishaps in the previous 3 weeks. Players like Adam, Ben, and Conor (ABC) will need to continue their hot play if they look to help the team get back into the win column. For FTW, the equation is simple. Ant, Daz and Stephen will need to be there for Danielle, and on key if they look to topple a deep Freedom squad. With names like Scotty, Petey, Nish, Andy, Travis and Mike on top of the ABC combo, Petey knows he can bring an all-star line up in all 5 spots, and if Freedom does bring such a star-studded team, Danielle better hope Ant has some minutes on his phone.
Prediction - 5-3 Freedom
Monday, May 7, 2012
Week Four
Monday @ 6:30 - Sexy Poolerz [2-1] vs For The Win [3-0]
After a strong performance from the likes of Lewis this past week, Sexy Poolerz will look to defeat their "other threat" in their quest to repeat as PRO champions. For The Win come in with a lot of accusations, as well as drama, and whether or not it is all true or not, the interleague world certainly have all eyes fixated on this squad. For The Win haven't been challenged yet this season, with their most probable challenge coming from New Era who didn't show for the alleged time switch. The next 4 weeks will certainly show how good this For The Win squad is, as Atlantic Conference teams not only look to show that their conference is where it's at, but for some teams (Freedom), trying to help preserve the only undefeated PRO record. Sexy Poolerz will come with guns-a-blazing with the likes of Lewis, Matt and Roy as the latter two look to rebound from poor starts to the season and help provide Lewis with some much needed support this week. A match that will go down to the wire and more than likely create some sort of drama, should end on the side of new kids in town.
Prediction - 5-3 For The Win
Tuesday @ 7pm - Break and Run [1-2] vs Straight Shots [2-1]
The theme of the first Tuesday match is whether or not either of these teams records are actual indicators of how their season will end. Break and Run have had a piss poor start to their season, and much of that could be directed at Jordy, who isn't winning every game anymore. With a roster that is rarely deep, Jordy has been relied on every season, as evidence from his multiple MVP awards, and while he's not known for his slow starts, a bounce back is quite possible but he'll need to bounce back sooner or later if he wishes to lead his team into the playoffs. Straight Shots on the other hand, were predicted to do nothing, but instead of doing nothing, they did everything reeling off two wins to start the season, before the apparent "cursed Joe" joined the squad and ended the hot start. Was it a fact of Joe joining the team? Or the fact that no team can depend on JJ and Jay to carry every week. Straight Shots were able to show that despite their league slowing down, they still, as always, have incredible depth but need that one start (Pita) to carry the flag. This match will be an interesting one, and should go deep with all the "support players" basically fighting amongst themselves until a probable Pita-Jordy match up occurs. The outcome of the match probably weighs in on how those two do, and as much as we love Pita, it's hard to bet against Jordy.
Prediction - 5-4 Break and Run
Tuesday @ 7pm - Pool Hall Pros [1-2] vs Dead Strokes [2-1]
Two different stories here. Pool Hall Pros come into the match, technically second for whatever reason, and that is only due to a no-show by New Era in week one, while on the flip side, Dead Strokes come in atop the heated Atlantic Conference battle tested, with their only loss from a Luis time out. While the very hyped Luis hasn't lived up to his 50-0 record expectation just yet, the X factor for Dead Strokes in Ashton has picked up what his team couldn't and has helped them to their record with a fine 6-0 showing in 2 matches.
Ashton has always headlined this team, but the fact a young male adult doesn't like to wake up in the wee hours of the morning for an online game, has been what has held him back. While there is nothing wrong with that, it is shocking that after a few years, Dead Strokes hasn't offered to pay for him to move to a more suitable time zone. Jokes aside, once Luis is able to heat up, the duo of Ashton and Luis will be incredible, as well as the support from players like Aaron, Jose and Roy. For Pool Hall Pros, they've been close to other wins, but haven't had a stand out performance. While Trio says he's the greatest and all that, he certainly can't add this season to his resume as he's been a shadow for Pool Hall Pros. Sean & Co. will need a solid team effort this week if they look to get back to .500
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes
Wednesday @ 7pm - New Era [1-2] vs Freedom [0-3]
In the last match of the week, we see two pathetic sides square off (Sorry, after reading the two obnoxious predictions, I can get a little snarly). Freedom was 22-1 in two seasons of PRO, now they're 0-3 with a roster that was upgraded. New Era is a team full of big names, but as pointed out in the pre-season predictions, it all depends on Jon and as evidence of him not playing a single match yet this season, it's easy to see why they're 1-2. The one match they did however decide to play, they won. So history (as brief as it is) says if New Era show, they'll win this week. Which isn't all that much of a stretch for a Freedom squad who just aren't winning... The memory of Pool Fiction tossing their GIT season to become the first 8 seed to win it all comes to mind, but even though they have the Head Admin, and the apparent criminal/bias admin, I would hope Freedom know that not all teams make the playoffs, and they'll actually have to start winning games, and quite frankly win-out the season if they look to make said playoffs. Pete is one player who is underrated, but as a top 5 MVP candidate the past few seasons, he'll have to start coming off the bench and lead by example because this team isn't going anywhere any time soon otherwise. I can't say much about New Era because even if they do show, I don't know with who or how many players, but I don't think it'll matter either way as Freedom should finally get this ship turned around and avoid that ice berg that apparently they didn't see in 3D either.
Prediction - 5-2 Freedom
After a strong performance from the likes of Lewis this past week, Sexy Poolerz will look to defeat their "other threat" in their quest to repeat as PRO champions. For The Win come in with a lot of accusations, as well as drama, and whether or not it is all true or not, the interleague world certainly have all eyes fixated on this squad. For The Win haven't been challenged yet this season, with their most probable challenge coming from New Era who didn't show for the alleged time switch. The next 4 weeks will certainly show how good this For The Win squad is, as Atlantic Conference teams not only look to show that their conference is where it's at, but for some teams (Freedom), trying to help preserve the only undefeated PRO record. Sexy Poolerz will come with guns-a-blazing with the likes of Lewis, Matt and Roy as the latter two look to rebound from poor starts to the season and help provide Lewis with some much needed support this week. A match that will go down to the wire and more than likely create some sort of drama, should end on the side of new kids in town.
Prediction - 5-3 For The Win
Tuesday @ 7pm - Break and Run [1-2] vs Straight Shots [2-1]
The theme of the first Tuesday match is whether or not either of these teams records are actual indicators of how their season will end. Break and Run have had a piss poor start to their season, and much of that could be directed at Jordy, who isn't winning every game anymore. With a roster that is rarely deep, Jordy has been relied on every season, as evidence from his multiple MVP awards, and while he's not known for his slow starts, a bounce back is quite possible but he'll need to bounce back sooner or later if he wishes to lead his team into the playoffs. Straight Shots on the other hand, were predicted to do nothing, but instead of doing nothing, they did everything reeling off two wins to start the season, before the apparent "cursed Joe" joined the squad and ended the hot start. Was it a fact of Joe joining the team? Or the fact that no team can depend on JJ and Jay to carry every week. Straight Shots were able to show that despite their league slowing down, they still, as always, have incredible depth but need that one start (Pita) to carry the flag. This match will be an interesting one, and should go deep with all the "support players" basically fighting amongst themselves until a probable Pita-Jordy match up occurs. The outcome of the match probably weighs in on how those two do, and as much as we love Pita, it's hard to bet against Jordy.
Prediction - 5-4 Break and Run
Tuesday @ 7pm - Pool Hall Pros [1-2] vs Dead Strokes [2-1]
Two different stories here. Pool Hall Pros come into the match, technically second for whatever reason, and that is only due to a no-show by New Era in week one, while on the flip side, Dead Strokes come in atop the heated Atlantic Conference battle tested, with their only loss from a Luis time out. While the very hyped Luis hasn't lived up to his 50-0 record expectation just yet, the X factor for Dead Strokes in Ashton has picked up what his team couldn't and has helped them to their record with a fine 6-0 showing in 2 matches.
Ashton has always headlined this team, but the fact a young male adult doesn't like to wake up in the wee hours of the morning for an online game, has been what has held him back. While there is nothing wrong with that, it is shocking that after a few years, Dead Strokes hasn't offered to pay for him to move to a more suitable time zone. Jokes aside, once Luis is able to heat up, the duo of Ashton and Luis will be incredible, as well as the support from players like Aaron, Jose and Roy. For Pool Hall Pros, they've been close to other wins, but haven't had a stand out performance. While Trio says he's the greatest and all that, he certainly can't add this season to his resume as he's been a shadow for Pool Hall Pros. Sean & Co. will need a solid team effort this week if they look to get back to .500
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes
Wednesday @ 7pm - New Era [1-2] vs Freedom [0-3]
In the last match of the week, we see two pathetic sides square off (Sorry, after reading the two obnoxious predictions, I can get a little snarly). Freedom was 22-1 in two seasons of PRO, now they're 0-3 with a roster that was upgraded. New Era is a team full of big names, but as pointed out in the pre-season predictions, it all depends on Jon and as evidence of him not playing a single match yet this season, it's easy to see why they're 1-2. The one match they did however decide to play, they won. So history (as brief as it is) says if New Era show, they'll win this week. Which isn't all that much of a stretch for a Freedom squad who just aren't winning... The memory of Pool Fiction tossing their GIT season to become the first 8 seed to win it all comes to mind, but even though they have the Head Admin, and the apparent criminal/bias admin, I would hope Freedom know that not all teams make the playoffs, and they'll actually have to start winning games, and quite frankly win-out the season if they look to make said playoffs. Pete is one player who is underrated, but as a top 5 MVP candidate the past few seasons, he'll have to start coming off the bench and lead by example because this team isn't going anywhere any time soon otherwise. I can't say much about New Era because even if they do show, I don't know with who or how many players, but I don't think it'll matter either way as Freedom should finally get this ship turned around and avoid that ice berg that apparently they didn't see in 3D either.
Prediction - 5-2 Freedom
Sunday, April 29, 2012
Week Three
Monday @ 7pm - Pool Hall Pros [1-1] vs Break and Run [0-2]
A very pivotal match for both squads entering this weeks match. A win for PHP would allow them to space themselves as a playoff team entering the cross conference part, while a loss for Break and Run may crush their season hopes of returning to the playoffs and reaching past greatness. With only one real match under the belt of PHP, it's hard to see who will help lead them to victory, if at all. While looking at Break and Runs small roster like seasons past, you can tell who is doing their best to lead the team to victory, like seasons past. Ross and Jordy are the only two with victories for Break and Run, and while Jordy has proven to lift a team out of no where into a playoff spot in previous seasons, he'll certainly need to step it up soon before their playoff hopes vanish, either that or the team steps up and wins as a team.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
Tuesday @ 7pm - Sexy Poolerz [1-1] vs Freedom [0-2]
At the start of the season, you could imagine both these teams would be 2-0 heading into a week 3 match-up like this, but this is far from that. While a 1-1 record isn't that bad, an 0-2 mark for Freedom is indeed shocking. Much of the blame could be directed at Pete, or rather the team without him. With just about everyone talking about how Freedom, in his absence, has been a complete disaster with no direction and more losses than his beloved Canadian basketball team. Is he the Canadian, Y!Pool version of Peyton Manning? Doubtful as he's pretty short, but a comparison is valid. Freedom will need to get their act together with, or without him if they look to bounce back and make the playoffs. This could be a great opportunity for Sexy Poolerz to notch another win against Freedom and not only bury their rivals, but get a potential leg up on Dead Strokes in what is shaping up to be a very interesting conference. If Pete is able to return, the line up he'll have should be one to marvel at, but Brice is no stranger to that and he'll have his big guns ready for what will be a great match-up.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Tuesday @ 7pm - Dead Strokes [1-1] vs Straight Shots [2-0]
One surprise, against a team full of surprises. For all the hype Luis had been given prior to the season, he has fallen short while the dark horse in Ashton I mentioned in the pre-season predictions came to the rescue last week against Freedom with a superb 4 win effort. With his talent, and Jose as a solid 1b back-up to Luis and his power outages, Dead Strokes have the tools for a great finish and potentially top spot in the conference, that is of course, if Straight Shots ever lose.. Many predictions were made for Straight Shots to win 2 matches, all season. While they haven't proven anyone wrong yet, it's hard to ignore their start and call it a fluke. In back to back weeks, they were carried by the same two players, showing that the depleted SS team will always have depth. It's hard to beat Dead Strokes with just two players though, unless you have timers in your back pocket of course, so Straight Shots will need to dig deep this week if they look to make it three straight for a start no one could have ever imagined for them.
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes
Wednesday @ 7pm - New Era [1-1] vs For The Win [2-0]
If, IF, New Era show with 5 for this week, this will be a superb match to say the very least. With players like Ant, Dante, Daz and Jeremy on one side, the likes of Cam, Jon, Mike, and JT will have their hands full if they look to show PRO that they are serious about winning this season. For all the shit FTW get regarding Ant/Danielle/Craig etc, all those silly rules that were set in place prior to this season, probably control that to make sure nothing like that happens, so until they get caught (if they are cheating), the accusations to me just seem like an act of jealousy. Under the assumption New Era come with a full team, this match will go deep and late, but it's hard to bet against a certain FTW side.
Prediction - 5-3 For The Win
A very pivotal match for both squads entering this weeks match. A win for PHP would allow them to space themselves as a playoff team entering the cross conference part, while a loss for Break and Run may crush their season hopes of returning to the playoffs and reaching past greatness. With only one real match under the belt of PHP, it's hard to see who will help lead them to victory, if at all. While looking at Break and Runs small roster like seasons past, you can tell who is doing their best to lead the team to victory, like seasons past. Ross and Jordy are the only two with victories for Break and Run, and while Jordy has proven to lift a team out of no where into a playoff spot in previous seasons, he'll certainly need to step it up soon before their playoff hopes vanish, either that or the team steps up and wins as a team.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
Tuesday @ 7pm - Sexy Poolerz [1-1] vs Freedom [0-2]
At the start of the season, you could imagine both these teams would be 2-0 heading into a week 3 match-up like this, but this is far from that. While a 1-1 record isn't that bad, an 0-2 mark for Freedom is indeed shocking. Much of the blame could be directed at Pete, or rather the team without him. With just about everyone talking about how Freedom, in his absence, has been a complete disaster with no direction and more losses than his beloved Canadian basketball team. Is he the Canadian, Y!Pool version of Peyton Manning? Doubtful as he's pretty short, but a comparison is valid. Freedom will need to get their act together with, or without him if they look to bounce back and make the playoffs. This could be a great opportunity for Sexy Poolerz to notch another win against Freedom and not only bury their rivals, but get a potential leg up on Dead Strokes in what is shaping up to be a very interesting conference. If Pete is able to return, the line up he'll have should be one to marvel at, but Brice is no stranger to that and he'll have his big guns ready for what will be a great match-up.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Tuesday @ 7pm - Dead Strokes [1-1] vs Straight Shots [2-0]
One surprise, against a team full of surprises. For all the hype Luis had been given prior to the season, he has fallen short while the dark horse in Ashton I mentioned in the pre-season predictions came to the rescue last week against Freedom with a superb 4 win effort. With his talent, and Jose as a solid 1b back-up to Luis and his power outages, Dead Strokes have the tools for a great finish and potentially top spot in the conference, that is of course, if Straight Shots ever lose.. Many predictions were made for Straight Shots to win 2 matches, all season. While they haven't proven anyone wrong yet, it's hard to ignore their start and call it a fluke. In back to back weeks, they were carried by the same two players, showing that the depleted SS team will always have depth. It's hard to beat Dead Strokes with just two players though, unless you have timers in your back pocket of course, so Straight Shots will need to dig deep this week if they look to make it three straight for a start no one could have ever imagined for them.
Prediction - 5-3 Dead Strokes
Wednesday @ 7pm - New Era [1-1] vs For The Win [2-0]
If, IF, New Era show with 5 for this week, this will be a superb match to say the very least. With players like Ant, Dante, Daz and Jeremy on one side, the likes of Cam, Jon, Mike, and JT will have their hands full if they look to show PRO that they are serious about winning this season. For all the shit FTW get regarding Ant/Danielle/Craig etc, all those silly rules that were set in place prior to this season, probably control that to make sure nothing like that happens, so until they get caught (if they are cheating), the accusations to me just seem like an act of jealousy. Under the assumption New Era come with a full team, this match will go deep and late, but it's hard to bet against a certain FTW side.
Prediction - 5-3 For The Win
Tuesday, April 24, 2012
Week Two
Tuesday @ 7pm - Break and Run [0-1] vs New Era [0-1]
Last week, neither team were able to win a single game, and while New Era gave themselves 0 chances to win a game, Break and Run just couldn't do a thing against a strong FTW front, not even Jordy. While Break and Run may hope to reap the benefits of another no show from New Era, the activity in the league shows that while a full team may not be present, some sort of resistance will be put up from the New Era side. Regardless of who shows, players like Ross, Jordy and Croz will look to rebound. I feel New Era will bring some sort of team, but they will be too disorganized to get it together and grab a W.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
Tuesday @ 7pm - Freedom [0-1] vs Dead Strokes [0-1]
After only getting their second loss in the three seasons, Freedom looks to avoid their first 2-loss season since Season 11, while Dead Strokes looks to avoid continuing previous season trends with a losing streak. By reading other blogs, DS may not have been in this hole if Luis had not timed out. Unfortunately for Dead Strokes, Freedom can play as slow as they need too, increasing the chance of back to back time outs for their savior. Freedom will need to have a much better showing if they look to compete against a better line-up this week compared to last. Dead Strokes has had Freedoms number in previous match-ups, and while this match should go down to the wire, it's difficult to see a Freedom squad being 0-2.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Wednesday @ 7pm - For The Win [1-0] vs Pool Hall Pros [1-0]
Two sides that are both 5-0, but quite apart in talent. The entire Ant-fiasco aside, For The Win do have talent outside of him, with players like Dante, Daz and Jeremy able to carry the load on any given week. For Pool Hall Pros to conquer this mountain, not only will they need Rocky to continue his MVP-form from last season, players like Sean and Dan will need to provide him with support or this match will be over far too quickly.
Prediction - 5-2 For The Win
Last week, neither team were able to win a single game, and while New Era gave themselves 0 chances to win a game, Break and Run just couldn't do a thing against a strong FTW front, not even Jordy. While Break and Run may hope to reap the benefits of another no show from New Era, the activity in the league shows that while a full team may not be present, some sort of resistance will be put up from the New Era side. Regardless of who shows, players like Ross, Jordy and Croz will look to rebound. I feel New Era will bring some sort of team, but they will be too disorganized to get it together and grab a W.
Prediction - 5-3 Break and Run
Tuesday @ 7pm - Freedom [0-1] vs Dead Strokes [0-1]
After only getting their second loss in the three seasons, Freedom looks to avoid their first 2-loss season since Season 11, while Dead Strokes looks to avoid continuing previous season trends with a losing streak. By reading other blogs, DS may not have been in this hole if Luis had not timed out. Unfortunately for Dead Strokes, Freedom can play as slow as they need too, increasing the chance of back to back time outs for their savior. Freedom will need to have a much better showing if they look to compete against a better line-up this week compared to last. Dead Strokes has had Freedoms number in previous match-ups, and while this match should go down to the wire, it's difficult to see a Freedom squad being 0-2.
Prediction - 5-4 Freedom
Wednesday @ 7pm - For The Win [1-0] vs Pool Hall Pros [1-0]
Two sides that are both 5-0, but quite apart in talent. The entire Ant-fiasco aside, For The Win do have talent outside of him, with players like Dante, Daz and Jeremy able to carry the load on any given week. For Pool Hall Pros to conquer this mountain, not only will they need Rocky to continue his MVP-form from last season, players like Sean and Dan will need to provide him with support or this match will be over far too quickly.
Prediction - 5-2 For The Win
Monday, April 16, 2012
Week One
Monday @ 7pm - Straight Shots @ Freedom
Kicking off the season we have the runner ups in the playoffs at home to a team they beat in the conference finals to get to the championship match, or is it the team? It's very safe to say the Straight Shots team from last season is quite different than this season. No longer do they have Ant to lead them to victory, no longer do they have depth that can put you in a hole. No, now they have Pita and his children. Most may slag on Pita but let's be real, despite his poor match records the past few seasons, his tournament play has been outstanding, and that means he'll break out.. right? For Freedom, despite what will be a great three horse battle for #1 in the conference, I have the feeling that they don't care about the season and just need to get back to the playoffs and win it all. While they shouldn't take any team lightly, if you have the likes of Scotty, Travis, Andy, Adam, Ben, Nish, Matt and Petey himself, you can reach for the light mayo. Tough opening draw for my boys, go Pita go!
Prediction - 5-2 Freedom
Tuesday @ 7pm - Sexy Poolerz @ Dead Strokes
Having Brent join along side Kerry and Sean seemed inevitable when he came back to PRO, which will leave me with a short but thrilling prediction. Everyone will talk about how DS will rely on Jose, Ashton and of course Luis. Much like how SP will have to rely on Carlos, Lewis and now Brent after the loss of Scotty. Sure SP has Sean, Kerry, Brice, Roy, and sure DS has Eddie, Carl, and others. But who really cares? Jose, Ashton, Luis vs Carlos, Lewis and Brent?! Can any of those six not break run your heart out? The edge here will have to go to the visitors though. Ashton has never been a constant player in PRO, though the 7pm start time may help, and all the pressure that EVERYONE has placed on Luis so quickly? Reigning champions should show that they don't need Scotty.. yet.
Prediction - 5-3 Sexy Poolerz
Tuesday @ 7pm - For The Win @ Break and Run
I understand there's a lot of pressure on Luis with Dead Strokes, but isn't there twice as much on Jordy this season? Sure the kids been unbelievable the past umpteen seasons, but he's never faced the kind of pressure he seems to face this season. He seems like the kind of guy to just brush it off, so everyone pointing fingers at him when he goes to urinate shouldn't bother him too much. For FTW, rumor has it that they're stacked beyond a Jenga tower. I guess it helps when people follow Ant around like a lost puppy. Ant and his puppies shouldn't have much of an issue this week as Jordy, despite his brilliance, should have too much on his plate.
Prediction - 5-3 For The Win
Wednesday @ 7pm - Pool Hall Pros @ New Era
In the final match-up of opening week, we see a couple of wild card teams facing off. Pool Hall Pros is a like a half spin off of Sexy Poolerz, while New Era is a Jon spinoff from Straight Shots. Both sides were about to recruit some good talent, New Era got a few great players. I mentioned in my pre-season that New Era will solely depend on Jon and Jon alone, which is a shame since he's Canadian. Pool Hall Pros may not have that stand out super star, but they have a lot of good players who, when all clicking, could take out any team in PRO. Pool Hall Pros has plenty of players who are reliable and will show, for New Era it'll be interesting to see what kind of depth Jon has besides his superstars.
Prediction - 5-4 New Era
Kicking off the season we have the runner ups in the playoffs at home to a team they beat in the conference finals to get to the championship match, or is it the team? It's very safe to say the Straight Shots team from last season is quite different than this season. No longer do they have Ant to lead them to victory, no longer do they have depth that can put you in a hole. No, now they have Pita and his children. Most may slag on Pita but let's be real, despite his poor match records the past few seasons, his tournament play has been outstanding, and that means he'll break out.. right? For Freedom, despite what will be a great three horse battle for #1 in the conference, I have the feeling that they don't care about the season and just need to get back to the playoffs and win it all. While they shouldn't take any team lightly, if you have the likes of Scotty, Travis, Andy, Adam, Ben, Nish, Matt and Petey himself, you can reach for the light mayo. Tough opening draw for my boys, go Pita go!
Prediction - 5-2 Freedom
Tuesday @ 7pm - Sexy Poolerz @ Dead Strokes
Having Brent join along side Kerry and Sean seemed inevitable when he came back to PRO, which will leave me with a short but thrilling prediction. Everyone will talk about how DS will rely on Jose, Ashton and of course Luis. Much like how SP will have to rely on Carlos, Lewis and now Brent after the loss of Scotty. Sure SP has Sean, Kerry, Brice, Roy, and sure DS has Eddie, Carl, and others. But who really cares? Jose, Ashton, Luis vs Carlos, Lewis and Brent?! Can any of those six not break run your heart out? The edge here will have to go to the visitors though. Ashton has never been a constant player in PRO, though the 7pm start time may help, and all the pressure that EVERYONE has placed on Luis so quickly? Reigning champions should show that they don't need Scotty.. yet.
Prediction - 5-3 Sexy Poolerz
Tuesday @ 7pm - For The Win @ Break and Run
I understand there's a lot of pressure on Luis with Dead Strokes, but isn't there twice as much on Jordy this season? Sure the kids been unbelievable the past umpteen seasons, but he's never faced the kind of pressure he seems to face this season. He seems like the kind of guy to just brush it off, so everyone pointing fingers at him when he goes to urinate shouldn't bother him too much. For FTW, rumor has it that they're stacked beyond a Jenga tower. I guess it helps when people follow Ant around like a lost puppy. Ant and his puppies shouldn't have much of an issue this week as Jordy, despite his brilliance, should have too much on his plate.
Prediction - 5-3 For The Win
Wednesday @ 7pm - Pool Hall Pros @ New Era
In the final match-up of opening week, we see a couple of wild card teams facing off. Pool Hall Pros is a like a half spin off of Sexy Poolerz, while New Era is a Jon spinoff from Straight Shots. Both sides were about to recruit some good talent, New Era got a few great players. I mentioned in my pre-season that New Era will solely depend on Jon and Jon alone, which is a shame since he's Canadian. Pool Hall Pros may not have that stand out super star, but they have a lot of good players who, when all clicking, could take out any team in PRO. Pool Hall Pros has plenty of players who are reliable and will show, for New Era it'll be interesting to see what kind of depth Jon has besides his superstars.
Prediction - 5-4 New Era
Friday, April 13, 2012
Season 14 Preseason
Congrats to the winners last season, and with more condensed talent this season, this season should be really fun week to week. Despite how the Atlantic Conference may have the three best rosters in PRO, the fact there is a 'rivalry week' like many actual sporting seasons is hilarious, and smart. I might make an effort to watch those games and do a bit of an in-depth review of them all as they should be quite entertaining. As per the fish filet... wtf.
Atlantic Conference
1st - Freedom
Why not? A combined 22-1 regular season record the past two seasons, combined with Petey being at the top of the MVP standings the past 3-4 seasons, Andy coming aboard and helping last season, and now Scotty this season. Maybe in 2 more seasons of adding star players, Freedom can actually have a playoff team that shows up.
Best case record: 10-0
Probably record: 9-1
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 7-3
Key players: Petey, Andy, Scotty.
2nd - Dead Strokes
Surprise pick? Why not. They've shown their power in 4orce thus far and the addition of Luis to their roster, Dead Strokes can finally emerge as a power in PRO, and doing so over SP and SS is oh-so sweet.
Best case record: 8-2
Probable record: 6-4
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 4-6
Key players: Eddie, Jose, Luis.
3rd - Sexy Poolerz
Returning champions missing the playoffs? Why not. That other predictor seems to have known what happened at the finals, and if they only won because of Scotty and he's gone, that can't be good can it? This season will be an interesting season for Sexy Poolerz after last seasons cheating escapades. Will Lewis & co. be able to help Brice get into the playoffs? Maybe if they were in the other conference.
Best case record: 7-3
Probably record: 5-5
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 4-6
Key players: Lewis, Roy, Carlos.
4th - Straight Shots
To keep up with earlier statements, why not? With New Era spinning off and splitting the roster, Shelle & Pita have a new sheet to work with, lucky for them Straight Shots always spins off new players. They're doing better in 4orce than WPC, so if that could be a good sign. Pita will have to up his game compared to prior seasons as he finally becomes the face of Straight Shots, and he might need to ask Jordy for some weekend workout techniques to strengthen those shoulders.
Best case record: 5-5
Probable record: 3-7
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 0-10
Key players: Pita, Shelle, Brad.
Pacific Conference
1st - For The Win
Weak name, but strong team. They'll have a ton of talent and should be able to cruise through this conference with ease, the cross conference matches will give a good test of how they'll fair against the likes of Freedom, Dead Strokes and Sexy Poolerz. A lot of people are questioning if this league will last, but chances are it will. Danielle handled the 8bc break-up quite well, and quite frankly, as long as Ants around, there isn't much to worry about.
Best case record: 9-1
Probable record: 8-2
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 6-4
Key players: Ant.. not sure who else is playing for them in PRO.
2nd - Break and Run
Teams like FTW make their name for what they do, but Break and Run was around long before Jordy came about, so the fit looks nice. Break and Run have struggled as of late, but this is Jordys playground, and this conference is weaker than last season so Break and Run should be able to bounce back for Ross.
Best case record: 7-3
Probable record: 6-4
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 4-6
Key players: Jordy, Ross, Mina
3rd - New Era
On paper this team is really good, but New Era really reminds me of ICA and MC of past seasons, where they rely heavily on the captain to get them there, and without him there's no team. Jon has the big guns at his disposal to probably win the conference if they showed every week, but chances are he'll have to dig into the depth charts for some matches. The season for New Era will probably hinge on their success in the cross conference matches
Best case record: 8-2
Probable record: 5-5
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 2-8
Key players: Jon, Mike, Dan
4th - Pool Hall Pros
The fact I think PHP is the 8th best league here says something, because as I am looking at their probable players, they could probably beat any team in PRO, but what might set them back is inconsistency. They have a solid team, it'll just be whether or not players can step up when needed. The fight for the second playoff spot will be a close one here and I wouldn't be surprised if PHP takes it.
Best case record: 6-4
Probable record: 4-6
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 2-8
Key players: Sean, Dan, handkrash
Atlantic Conference
1st - Freedom
Why not? A combined 22-1 regular season record the past two seasons, combined with Petey being at the top of the MVP standings the past 3-4 seasons, Andy coming aboard and helping last season, and now Scotty this season. Maybe in 2 more seasons of adding star players, Freedom can actually have a playoff team that shows up.
Best case record: 10-0
Probably record: 9-1
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 7-3
Key players: Petey, Andy, Scotty.
2nd - Dead Strokes
Surprise pick? Why not. They've shown their power in 4orce thus far and the addition of Luis to their roster, Dead Strokes can finally emerge as a power in PRO, and doing so over SP and SS is oh-so sweet.
Best case record: 8-2
Probable record: 6-4
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 4-6
Key players: Eddie, Jose, Luis.
3rd - Sexy Poolerz
Returning champions missing the playoffs? Why not. That other predictor seems to have known what happened at the finals, and if they only won because of Scotty and he's gone, that can't be good can it? This season will be an interesting season for Sexy Poolerz after last seasons cheating escapades. Will Lewis & co. be able to help Brice get into the playoffs? Maybe if they were in the other conference.
Best case record: 7-3
Probably record: 5-5
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 4-6
Key players: Lewis, Roy, Carlos.
4th - Straight Shots
To keep up with earlier statements, why not? With New Era spinning off and splitting the roster, Shelle & Pita have a new sheet to work with, lucky for them Straight Shots always spins off new players. They're doing better in 4orce than WPC, so if that could be a good sign. Pita will have to up his game compared to prior seasons as he finally becomes the face of Straight Shots, and he might need to ask Jordy for some weekend workout techniques to strengthen those shoulders.
Best case record: 5-5
Probable record: 3-7
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 0-10
Key players: Pita, Shelle, Brad.
Pacific Conference
1st - For The Win
Weak name, but strong team. They'll have a ton of talent and should be able to cruise through this conference with ease, the cross conference matches will give a good test of how they'll fair against the likes of Freedom, Dead Strokes and Sexy Poolerz. A lot of people are questioning if this league will last, but chances are it will. Danielle handled the 8bc break-up quite well, and quite frankly, as long as Ants around, there isn't much to worry about.
Best case record: 9-1
Probable record: 8-2
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 6-4
Key players: Ant.. not sure who else is playing for them in PRO.
2nd - Break and Run
Teams like FTW make their name for what they do, but Break and Run was around long before Jordy came about, so the fit looks nice. Break and Run have struggled as of late, but this is Jordys playground, and this conference is weaker than last season so Break and Run should be able to bounce back for Ross.
Best case record: 7-3
Probable record: 6-4
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 4-6
Key players: Jordy, Ross, Mina
3rd - New Era
On paper this team is really good, but New Era really reminds me of ICA and MC of past seasons, where they rely heavily on the captain to get them there, and without him there's no team. Jon has the big guns at his disposal to probably win the conference if they showed every week, but chances are he'll have to dig into the depth charts for some matches. The season for New Era will probably hinge on their success in the cross conference matches
Best case record: 8-2
Probable record: 5-5
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 2-8
Key players: Jon, Mike, Dan
4th - Pool Hall Pros
The fact I think PHP is the 8th best league here says something, because as I am looking at their probable players, they could probably beat any team in PRO, but what might set them back is inconsistency. They have a solid team, it'll just be whether or not players can step up when needed. The fight for the second playoff spot will be a close one here and I wouldn't be surprised if PHP takes it.
Best case record: 6-4
Probable record: 4-6
Oh-no-look-at-that-collapse record: 2-8
Key players: Sean, Dan, handkrash
Monday, February 13, 2012
Season 13 Finals
Freedom [10-1] vs Sexy Poolerz [8-4]
Recent match-ups: PRO Week 5 - 5-2 Freedom. WSOP Semis - 4-0 Freedom. WPC Finals - 2-1 Sexy Poolerz. UIC Week 9 - 3-2 Freedom.
Diving right into this prediction, Freedom looks to finally win an interleague they've dominated lately, while Sexy Poolerz vie for their first real interleague title since the "dream team" was put together (WPC doesn't count, if Break and Run do not partake, the interleague is no good). Looking at the recent match ups, Freedom "leads" the "recent match-ups" 5 matches to 2, which spells bad news for Brice & co., but they do have a few things working for them in these finals. The first being Freedom and their ability to well, win. Last season they completed the first undefeated season in strong competition in years, but couldn't even make it to the finals. The second, which helps the first out, is how Freedom is not active at all. Players like Adam, Matt, Petey, Mike and even Travis rarely play outside of interleagues, and in the finals of an interleague, all it takes is one mistake to lose your game, and possibly the match. Sexy Poolerz are active, and their players partake in cam competitions, so they will be playing on their game.
That being said, Freedom is stacked with veterans and having to play the five tournament games might be the only warming up they need to get their shot back in time. Freedoms list is littered with champions from years past, so if the want is there, this really is Freedoms to lose. Sexy Poolerz have a shorter roster with a lot less "winning experience", the last SP squad to win anything big was back in the days of Pete, Ste and Ketan and the randoms they brought along. Brice & co. however, are no push overs. With the likes of Carlos and Scotty leading the way, SP are in good hands, and if it wasn't for them keeping Craig around to drive others away, this finale could be a whole lot more star-studded.
Best line-up:
Freedom - Andy, Matt, Mike, Petey, and Travis.
Sexy Poolerz - Carlos, Mike, Scotty, Sean, and Roy.
On paper, in a carry format, with these lineups, it would really come down to how hot Scotty and Carlos can get, because 4 out of 5 games, Freedom should be leading heading into game 6. That being said, Freedom went 13-0 and didn't win a single playoff game, Freedom made it out of the hardest WSOP conference ever and lost to a "soft" team, and lost to SP in WPC. Sexy Poolerz have been pouring it on as of late, will this be their title they've been chasing since day one? Or will they put too much pressure on themselves and throw it away? Will Freedom finally break through and become an elite team or will they continue to throw away great seasons with poor playoff performances? A lot of questions, a lot of talent, but only one winner in the end..
Prediction:
Match 1 - 5-3 Freedom
Match 2 - 5-4 Freedom.
Recent match-ups: PRO Week 5 - 5-2 Freedom. WSOP Semis - 4-0 Freedom. WPC Finals - 2-1 Sexy Poolerz. UIC Week 9 - 3-2 Freedom.
Diving right into this prediction, Freedom looks to finally win an interleague they've dominated lately, while Sexy Poolerz vie for their first real interleague title since the "dream team" was put together (WPC doesn't count, if Break and Run do not partake, the interleague is no good). Looking at the recent match ups, Freedom "leads" the "recent match-ups" 5 matches to 2, which spells bad news for Brice & co., but they do have a few things working for them in these finals. The first being Freedom and their ability to well, win. Last season they completed the first undefeated season in strong competition in years, but couldn't even make it to the finals. The second, which helps the first out, is how Freedom is not active at all. Players like Adam, Matt, Petey, Mike and even Travis rarely play outside of interleagues, and in the finals of an interleague, all it takes is one mistake to lose your game, and possibly the match. Sexy Poolerz are active, and their players partake in cam competitions, so they will be playing on their game.
That being said, Freedom is stacked with veterans and having to play the five tournament games might be the only warming up they need to get their shot back in time. Freedoms list is littered with champions from years past, so if the want is there, this really is Freedoms to lose. Sexy Poolerz have a shorter roster with a lot less "winning experience", the last SP squad to win anything big was back in the days of Pete, Ste and Ketan and the randoms they brought along. Brice & co. however, are no push overs. With the likes of Carlos and Scotty leading the way, SP are in good hands, and if it wasn't for them keeping Craig around to drive others away, this finale could be a whole lot more star-studded.
Best line-up:
Freedom - Andy, Matt, Mike, Petey, and Travis.
Sexy Poolerz - Carlos, Mike, Scotty, Sean, and Roy.
On paper, in a carry format, with these lineups, it would really come down to how hot Scotty and Carlos can get, because 4 out of 5 games, Freedom should be leading heading into game 6. That being said, Freedom went 13-0 and didn't win a single playoff game, Freedom made it out of the hardest WSOP conference ever and lost to a "soft" team, and lost to SP in WPC. Sexy Poolerz have been pouring it on as of late, will this be their title they've been chasing since day one? Or will they put too much pressure on themselves and throw it away? Will Freedom finally break through and become an elite team or will they continue to throw away great seasons with poor playoff performances? A lot of questions, a lot of talent, but only one winner in the end..
Prediction:
Match 1 - 5-3 Freedom
Match 2 - 5-4 Freedom.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Round 1
Sexy Poolerz [6-4] @ Break and Run [8-2]
Season match ups: Week 3: BnR defeat SP 5-2 & Week 10: BnR defeat SP 5-4
Interesting note: SP had apparent drama..
Clearly you've been gone too long when a player gets banned in 4 interleagues and people have time to withdraw and rejoin. SP drama aside, they have a big mountain to climb this week against a team that's had their number for just about forever. Beyond round 1 of WSOP, SP have had big troubles against a Break and Run squad who once again race into the playoffs on the back of Jordy. For I believe the 4th time in 5 seasons, Jordy has finished with a top 3 record, which it is OK I guess..
Most exciting line up: For Break and Run: Jordy on 5 IDs & For SP: Craig on 5 IDs... wait..
What to watch for: Jordy obviously. If Break and Run are able to match Jordy up to get an easy 1st win and break for his second, it could be the end of the "dream team" who apparently were to go undefeated this season. But with the likes of Scotty, Mike, Sean, Roy and Brice, it'll be a tall task for a veteran Break and Run squad, though a squad who seem to always have a knack for winning at the right time in PRO.
Prediction: 5-4 Break and Run.
Straight Shots [5-5] @ Freedom [9-1]
Season match ups: Week 1: Fr defeat SS 5-3 & Week 8: Fr defeat SS 5-4
Interesting note: None, two boring teams.
No drama here, just what could be a repeat of last playoffs. A strong Freedom squad who finished miles ahead of their competition, only to lose to a .500 team in the playoffs. LPL were actually 6-7 last season, but 5-5 is still around as bad. But how can you be bad with the likes of Scott and Ant? Well a minimal supporting cast will do the trick. Luckily for Straight Shots, Freedom is in the same boat, beyond Andy and Peter, no one in Freedom has done that well, but what do you expect from a league that doesn't exactly keep the rust off players who are hardly around?
Most exciting line up: For SS: Ant, Jay, Mike, Pita & Scott & for Fr: Adam, Andy, Nish, Peter, & Travis.
What to watch for: How Ant and Scott play. Straight Shots are weak in depth and Cam probably wont show since he's trying out to be the next David Letterman with all those top 10 lists, though the likes of Travis will probably be watching it and forget to show, so chances are both teams will be shorthanded. Seriously though, if Ant and Scott are unable to break run a table, the slow play of Freedom should get to them, and they might win a playoff game for once.
Prediction: 5-3 Freedom
Season match ups: Week 3: BnR defeat SP 5-2 & Week 10: BnR defeat SP 5-4
Interesting note: SP had apparent drama..
Clearly you've been gone too long when a player gets banned in 4 interleagues and people have time to withdraw and rejoin. SP drama aside, they have a big mountain to climb this week against a team that's had their number for just about forever. Beyond round 1 of WSOP, SP have had big troubles against a Break and Run squad who once again race into the playoffs on the back of Jordy. For I believe the 4th time in 5 seasons, Jordy has finished with a top 3 record, which it is OK I guess..
Most exciting line up: For Break and Run: Jordy on 5 IDs & For SP: Craig on 5 IDs... wait..
What to watch for: Jordy obviously. If Break and Run are able to match Jordy up to get an easy 1st win and break for his second, it could be the end of the "dream team" who apparently were to go undefeated this season. But with the likes of Scotty, Mike, Sean, Roy and Brice, it'll be a tall task for a veteran Break and Run squad, though a squad who seem to always have a knack for winning at the right time in PRO.
Prediction: 5-4 Break and Run.
Straight Shots [5-5] @ Freedom [9-1]
Season match ups: Week 1: Fr defeat SS 5-3 & Week 8: Fr defeat SS 5-4
Interesting note: None, two boring teams.
No drama here, just what could be a repeat of last playoffs. A strong Freedom squad who finished miles ahead of their competition, only to lose to a .500 team in the playoffs. LPL were actually 6-7 last season, but 5-5 is still around as bad. But how can you be bad with the likes of Scott and Ant? Well a minimal supporting cast will do the trick. Luckily for Straight Shots, Freedom is in the same boat, beyond Andy and Peter, no one in Freedom has done that well, but what do you expect from a league that doesn't exactly keep the rust off players who are hardly around?
Most exciting line up: For SS: Ant, Jay, Mike, Pita & Scott & for Fr: Adam, Andy, Nish, Peter, & Travis.
What to watch for: How Ant and Scott play. Straight Shots are weak in depth and Cam probably wont show since he's trying out to be the next David Letterman with all those top 10 lists, though the likes of Travis will probably be watching it and forget to show, so chances are both teams will be shorthanded. Seriously though, if Ant and Scott are unable to break run a table, the slow play of Freedom should get to them, and they might win a playoff game for once.
Prediction: 5-3 Freedom
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Week Seven
Tuesday @ 7pm - Straight Shots [3-3] @ Sexy Poolerz [3-3]
Both sides enter the new year falling below expectations in PRO. Both sides have talented rosters and will look to start the new year off on the right foot to assure themselves a spot in the playoffs. Straight Shots are headlined by Ant and Scott, with the common SS duo of Jon and Pita hardly living up to their own expectations. Seasons past have shown us that Straight Shots are a second half team leaving Sexy Poolerz worrying about falling below .500. SP did quite well in WSOP this season taking the conference, but have quite a bit of work to do if they look to do the same here in PRO. WSOP MVP Sean has done little to nothing in PRO, and the stars SP have just haven't stepped up. Kevin is having the only decent season thus far, and with such talent you can never leave it up to just one player. If Brice is able to get Carlos more game time along with the rest of their stars, they should be able to take this the distance, but without their best, it's hard to bet against Straight Shots here.
Prediction - 5-3 Straight Shots
Wednesday @ 7pm - Break and Run [4-2] @ Freedom [6-0]
I haven't heard of drama between these two leagues in ages which makes these predictions dull these days. Break and Run come in as top dogs in the Atlantic and it's pretty clear why. The qierky phenom has been just that, carrying Break and Run like usual with his 9-1 record. Not to be outdone though is his opponent this week in Freedoms captain, who has gotten his record to 9-0. Two maybe three seasons prior Petey was in the MVP race til the end but lost out to I believe Jordy which makes this tasty. Beyond the two 9 game winners, Andy has helped provide Freedom with that support keeping Freedoms season-winning streak at a number I have no idea of. Players like Adam, Travis, Nish and Mike have yet to be counted on to carry, which is a scary thing. Break and Run have relied on Jim and Croz a lot this season, but neither have been able to get it going. Both will need to if they look to defeat Freedom this week.
Prediction - 5-3 Freedom
Thursday @ 7pm - 8Ball Crushers [4-2] @ Latin Pool Legends [3-3]
These two last faced off in PRO last season in the quarter finals where Latin Pool Legends made them their first of 3 victims en route to their championship. Last season LPL started on fire with a 7-3 record, but dozed off having clinched a playoff spot (I assume), this season however is different. LPL started dreadfully this season but have since picked it up and will look to pressure Straight Shots all season long. 8Ball Crushers are sitting pretty at the moment as they're in the final playoff spot, and while LPL have defeated everyone else in their conference, a win this week gives 8bc a leg up heading into the final stretch of games. LPL will have Daru, Gus, Tino and who knows who else to finish up the roster. The likes of Raj, Jay, JJ, and Matt need to be able to help Rocky out with his great run this season if they look to take down LPL. If LPL brings 5 they should take this, otherwise 8bc may have more quality, based on quantity.
Prediction - 5-4 Latin Pool Legends
Thursday @ 7pm - Dead Strokes [1-5] @ Simply Pool Souls [0-6]
Despite their poor records, this could turn out to be a great match. Dead Strokes come in basically needing to win out to make the playoffs, something that is possible for them but starts this week. The likes of Scott, Ashton and Eddie need to carry the way for DS. On the flip side, did you hear Joe became MVP of WSOP? Unfortunately, PRO has talent in both divisions and while he is a skilled player, he is no where close to MVP form this season, he could always carry the next 4 weeks and take home MVP, but that's his call. Players like Monte, Duro, Jason and Becky are capable of knocking down a win or two every week, but the team as a whole just hasn't been able to get it going. 2012 is a new year though, we'll see what happens.
Prediction 5-2 Dead Strokes
Both sides enter the new year falling below expectations in PRO. Both sides have talented rosters and will look to start the new year off on the right foot to assure themselves a spot in the playoffs. Straight Shots are headlined by Ant and Scott, with the common SS duo of Jon and Pita hardly living up to their own expectations. Seasons past have shown us that Straight Shots are a second half team leaving Sexy Poolerz worrying about falling below .500. SP did quite well in WSOP this season taking the conference, but have quite a bit of work to do if they look to do the same here in PRO. WSOP MVP Sean has done little to nothing in PRO, and the stars SP have just haven't stepped up. Kevin is having the only decent season thus far, and with such talent you can never leave it up to just one player. If Brice is able to get Carlos more game time along with the rest of their stars, they should be able to take this the distance, but without their best, it's hard to bet against Straight Shots here.
Prediction - 5-3 Straight Shots
Wednesday @ 7pm - Break and Run [4-2] @ Freedom [6-0]
I haven't heard of drama between these two leagues in ages which makes these predictions dull these days. Break and Run come in as top dogs in the Atlantic and it's pretty clear why. The qierky phenom has been just that, carrying Break and Run like usual with his 9-1 record. Not to be outdone though is his opponent this week in Freedoms captain, who has gotten his record to 9-0. Two maybe three seasons prior Petey was in the MVP race til the end but lost out to I believe Jordy which makes this tasty. Beyond the two 9 game winners, Andy has helped provide Freedom with that support keeping Freedoms season-winning streak at a number I have no idea of. Players like Adam, Travis, Nish and Mike have yet to be counted on to carry, which is a scary thing. Break and Run have relied on Jim and Croz a lot this season, but neither have been able to get it going. Both will need to if they look to defeat Freedom this week.
Prediction - 5-3 Freedom
Thursday @ 7pm - 8Ball Crushers [4-2] @ Latin Pool Legends [3-3]
These two last faced off in PRO last season in the quarter finals where Latin Pool Legends made them their first of 3 victims en route to their championship. Last season LPL started on fire with a 7-3 record, but dozed off having clinched a playoff spot (I assume), this season however is different. LPL started dreadfully this season but have since picked it up and will look to pressure Straight Shots all season long. 8Ball Crushers are sitting pretty at the moment as they're in the final playoff spot, and while LPL have defeated everyone else in their conference, a win this week gives 8bc a leg up heading into the final stretch of games. LPL will have Daru, Gus, Tino and who knows who else to finish up the roster. The likes of Raj, Jay, JJ, and Matt need to be able to help Rocky out with his great run this season if they look to take down LPL. If LPL brings 5 they should take this, otherwise 8bc may have more quality, based on quantity.
Prediction - 5-4 Latin Pool Legends
Thursday @ 7pm - Dead Strokes [1-5] @ Simply Pool Souls [0-6]
Despite their poor records, this could turn out to be a great match. Dead Strokes come in basically needing to win out to make the playoffs, something that is possible for them but starts this week. The likes of Scott, Ashton and Eddie need to carry the way for DS. On the flip side, did you hear Joe became MVP of WSOP? Unfortunately, PRO has talent in both divisions and while he is a skilled player, he is no where close to MVP form this season, he could always carry the next 4 weeks and take home MVP, but that's his call. Players like Monte, Duro, Jason and Becky are capable of knocking down a win or two every week, but the team as a whole just hasn't been able to get it going. 2012 is a new year though, we'll see what happens.
Prediction 5-2 Dead Strokes
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