Match-Up Build-Up Week 16 Championship Edition 2018

The Perpetual Dynasty vs The Real McCoy

Roll it back, we have a rematch of last year's championship. TPD vs McCoy reeks of nostalgia and blue blooded feuding. These two titans stand above the rest. They are the elite class of the MFFL. No words can truly explain the weight of this match-up but looking at both teams show a difference in style but resulting in similar results. Championship week in the MFFL is here. Time to get it started. 

TPD is in the championship for an unprecedented 3rd year in a row. No other team has ever accomplished that feat and a win on Sunday would give them an unbelievable 3peat. It's a truly impressive opportunity considering the depth and strength of the MFFL. Last week TPD survived with a depleted lineup. This week they are hoping to get Beckham and Conner back as they need all hands on deck for the championship match-up. Injuries and consistent poor play from their TEs and DEFs will force them to be creative come Sunday, but no other team is better at gameday managing and they will likely put together an optimal lineup featuring the correct decisions, even if no other team would dare make the same choices if in the same position. TPD's had to fight each of the last 3 regular season's, never seemingly having the most dominate team in the league, but yet here they are in the ship once again. It's a testament to their skills as a team, always getting the most out of every player that dawns the TPD colors. TPD was molded for these moments and they'll go after it once more.  

McCoy scored the most points of the four playoff participants last week, further validating their claim to being the top team in the league this season. They enter the championship as definitive favorites, although slight in some way considering their opponent. Unlike TPD, McCoy hasn't had to change much about their lineup since week 2. After the first game of the season McCoy took fliers on a QB and a TE. Those dart throws turned into true difference makers in the shape of Mahomes and Kittle. Neither ever left the squad. It is a classic low risk turned magical move from McCoy. Things like this seemingly always happen for this franchise. Look no further than how Williams and Samuels have played for this franchise since Gordon's injury. It's unfathomable results week after week from players the team would be thrilled to get half of such production from. The lack of injuries and midas touch qualities of this season have McCoy more confident than ever. It's a dangerous combination come Sunday. 

The match-up this year is as strong as ever with both teams having studs everywhere. McCoy has a solid edge at TE but that may be the only significant advantage from any position. A big factor entering this week is the health of TPD's players which could end up affecting both lineups. There's nothing left to say about this rematch. There are no words to put it in perspective. Regardless of the result each team will keep their unquestioned elite status. Both are looking for their third crown. It's wild times in the MFFL. Match-ups like this have become commonplace, but it won't hold forever. One day we'll look back and remember the way it was when these two teams dominated the league,  putting on shows of epic proportions. Don't miss a single moment. 

Match-Up Build-Up Week 15 Playoff Edition

The Final Four.

The MFFL playoffs are set and it promises to be a spectacular show. The four teams in the playoffs this year all scored over 2,000 points for the season. The amount of points scored this year shattered the norms of the previous seasons, as the league averaged scoring a ridiculous 130 ppg. The East division was superior to the West all season long, and unsurprisingly the East boast three of the four playoff participants. In a season with the least drama ever, the playoffs will flip the script with the four dominant teams responsible for the lack of competitiveness matched up on playoff weekend. It's a group of four the likes of which has rarely been seen. But like so many times before, the playoffs will be a different animal. Take nothing for granted and expect the unexpected. Nothing is given, all is earned, and this year's playoff's will quake the earth. The MFFL's best are going to war.  

#1 The Real McCoy vs #4 Tavon and Only 

Overview: The first playoff match-up pits two rivals against one another for an epic clash. McCoy has truly dominated this rivalry, but each of their games this season were extremely close. McCoy won the first match-up by 4 points and the second match-up by 7 points. Tavon has been waiting for this opportunity, while McCoy looks to put them down once more.  

The Real McCoy:

It's difficult to put McCoy's season into perspective for a number of reasons. There is much to be in awe about, but a good many other things to question. The positive aspects of their season are truly epic. They won 12 games in the regular season, tying their previous record. They scored the most points ever in a regular season, besting TPD's old mark by 10 points. Impressively they've scored at least 140 points in 8 of their last 9 games. From a far those accomplishments shine bright, but looking closer has a dimming effect. Their all time points record occurred during a year in which four teams scored over 2,000 points. They had the easiest schedule in the league with teams averaging a meager 118 ppg against them, a full 12 points below the league's 130 ppg average. Their own division only averaged 109 ppg against them. Their dominant play, coupled with ease of schedule, have given them unbelievable seasons in recent memory, but when truly challenged in the playoffs they have fallen short recently with a (2-4) record in their last six playoff games. They again have the opportunity to change that, making the playoffs for a 6th time in 7 years. Their juggernaut status is unquestioned, but their royalty status could be earned this year.  

Tavon and Only:

A bounce back season for Tavon was just what the doctor ordered. They're back in playoffs for the first time since their championship in 2015. Amazingly they could tie TPD and McCoy with two championships all time if they win it all this year. It has been feast or famine with this franchise all career long. They earned everything this year having the league's 4th hardest schedule. While not as consistently powerful as the three other playoff teams, they still never scored below 121 points in a game all season. This team deserves large amounts of credit for what they accomplished this year. Standing in their way is a team that has consistently haunted their nightmares. A win over McCoy may exercise their demons and be the spark needed to do something truly remarkable.  

The Match-Up:

This match-up has so much going for it. McCoy is attempting to beat Tavon for a third time this year, a tall task, and as mentioned earlier the previous two installments were extremely close. The only injury for either team is Melvin Gordon, though he may play. McCoy had some blow up performances a week ago which may hinder their ability for repeat performances. Tavon is also coming off a big week but with more repeatable performances. The key all year for McCoy has been Mahomes and strong WR play. Their carousel of RB starters looks like a TPD team, but they continue to win games regardless. Tavon has had to survive with consistent performances across the board week after week but they have somehow maintained that. It's a truly even affair with fire power across the board, unsurprising considering what each of the playoffs teams have accomplished this season. The match-up will go back and forth. If McCoy continues to find ways to duct tape their RB core into success then they will likely come out victorious. But if Tavon has one blow performance, coupled with their standard consistency, then they will come out victorious, having finally toppled their rival. Whoa Nelly.  

#2 The Glorious Morgans vs #3 The Perpetual Dynasty

Overview: Another game featuring the higher seed having swept their opponent is on tap for the playoff's 2nd mind blowing match-up. If last year's epic playoff battle between these two teams is any indication of this year's potential, then expect earth moving haymakers throughout. 

The Glorious Morgans:

The Morgans dominance over the last two seasons is fitting considering the strength of this franchise. Always an underdog, a role they never mind playing, this team has taken the league by storm and turned into a juggernaut franchise. The key to their success has been beating TPD. They are on a ridiculous regular run against TPD, not only winning games but doing so in unbelievable fashion. But The Morgans won't sleep easy. After sweeping TPD last season, they lost a heartbreaker against them in what could be the league's greatest game ever played. If not for some elite gameday managing skills displayed by TPD that day, they would have rolled into a title opportunity. The same storyline unfolds this season and The Morgans are met with the difficult task of trying to beat TPD for a 3rd time in one season. Similar to McCoy, the Morgans have failed to parlay regular season success into playoff victories, and their regular season challenges the last two years have been few and far between. Still, they won the East this year, which is hugely impressive, and their squad is as talented as any. A win would finally give them a chance to play for it all. Something that has eluded them outside of their championship appearance in 2013. 

The Perpetual Dynasty:

TPD's regular season win totals lag behind the Morgans and McCoy again this year, but their success in maneuvering the labyrinth of MFFL challenges is remarkable in its own right. This team simply has large amounts of stress that the other juggernauts do not. But their grinding has hardened them and molded an even scarier foe. Ask any top team in the league they'd probably say they are more worried about playing TPD now then they would be to play TPD teams of old. It speaks to their improvements as a team and the understanding of the ridiculous circumstance that has kept them from achieving the regular accolades like so many times before. Underneath it all this team is as dominate as ever, and perhaps more so. TPD is coming off their unquestionably worst game of the season a week ago. It could be a forth telling of doom or the calming before a storm. The weekend will reveal all. What is clear for TPD is what is at stake, a chance at more history and an unprecedented 3peat. These are the moments TPD stands tallest. Working against them is having the most injuries of any playoff team with multiple studs questionable for the weekend's tilts. But no team is more equipped to handle such circumstance, circumstance they have handled time and time again in winning back to back ships. 

The Match-Up:

This match-up screams of nostalgia and blue blooded history. The Morgans have dominated this match-up for years, but TPD's thrilling come back win after a 41 point Thursday performance from K. Hunt in last year's playoffs seem to have balanced the score. Good luck finding an edge on paper for either one of them, the match-up is that close. The Morgans have relied on Adams, Gurley, and Ertz all year, with each of them bringing their A+ game pretty much every time this season. TPD has used their stable of stud WRs and RBs to carry the slack created by their poor TE and DEF play, as well as average QB performances. It feels just like it did last year and the stage is set for another classic match-up between these two creative foes. Like it was a year ago, this one has the makings of a classic. Feel the rumble. 

Match-Up Build-Up Week 14

The final week of the regular season has arrived and just like each of the last two season's the playoff bracket is all but assured. Three teams are cemented in, McCoy, Morgans, and TPD. The last spot will almost assuredly go to Tavon. It would take a massively poor performance, coupled with an explosion of biblical proportions by Loco, for Tavon not to make the playoff. The story-line for this week will be the battle for the top seed. TPD is locked into the #3 spot, with Tavon in the #4 spot. Both McCoy and the Morgans want the bragging rights that come with acquiring the 1st seed, but they also probably want to avoid playing TPD in the first round of the playoffs, though considering the strength of Tavon as well, neither option is an inviting one. The regular season has been devoid of drama due to the dominance of the four playoff teams, but their strong play has set up two epic playoff match-ups for next week, regardless of seeding. These four teams have been on a collision course all season and next week we will break it all down. MFFL playoffs are almost here. Lets Go!

Match-Up Build-Up Week 13

Two playoff spots are secured; only two remain. The battle for the final two slots is heating up with only four teams remaining in contention. Let's break it down.

The Perpetual Dynasty (8-4)
The current front runner for one of the final two playoff spots is TPD. It has been another impressive campaign from the back to back champ, scoring the 2nd most points in the league so far. Once again though their strong play is hindered by a tough schedule and poor circumstance. Their SOS ranks in the top 5, with teams averaging 136 ppg against them in their last 5 contests. Still TPD has handled their schedule reasonably well. They are hoping the additions of Rudolph and Brate will finally squelch their poor TE play that has plagued them all year, and last week validated their hope. The teams around them in the standings will be hoping TPD's classic negative crazy circumstance will somehow keep them out of the playoffs, but that may only be wishful thinking. TPD could make it into the playoffs without even winning another game, and a win this week would officially book their ticket to the dance for a sixth time in seven seasons.

Tavon and Only (7-5)
Tavon is 4th in points and stands at 4th in the standings. Their 5 losses this season have come against the three teams ahead of them in the standings as well as one to LFB. They have beaten up on poor competition this season but have failed to secure wins against the blue bloods. They will be hoping for a rematch against McCoy if they can make the playoffs, after losing to them twice this season by a combined 11 points. They play UB this week, who are playing well, and they finish with The Morgans in the final game of their season. It's a tough schedule to close, but the playoffs are still well within reach.

La Flama Blanca (7-5) 
LFB holds the same record as Tavon, but once again have benefited from a soft schedule. They are 6th in points scored, but hold the league's 3rd easiest schedule. Three straight wins after a slow middle season run have them in direct contention for a playoff spot. Playing against TPD and Loco, two other playoff hopefuls, won't help matters, but anything is possible with this enigma of a team. They've scored under 100 points 4 separate times this season. They need to win out in order to have a shot at the playoffs, but even then they would need help in the form of teams ahead of them losing games.

El Pollo Loco (6-6)
Loco is the last team with a chance at the playoffs but it is a difficult road. They have to win out and hope for the same poor play from teams ahead of them like LFB is. They've been too inconsistent similar to years past and have been unable to take advantage of having the league's 4th easiest schedule. Their hope is all but finished, but a win against the thorn in their side McCoy may be enough to revitalize their hope heading into the final week.

McCoy and Morgans have glided into the playoffs on a wave of dominant play and hilariously easy SOS.

To put it in perspective, Loco, the team directly behind McCoy in the West, would be (9-3) had they had McCoy's schedule. Only four teams have scored over 120 points against McCoy all year, with 6 separate teams scoring under 105 this year against them. All that being said, McCoy has scored the most points in the league, so reversing the hypothetical and giving them other team's schedules would only give them a few more losses than the one loss they have. The injury to Gordon is troubling, as well as the trends for what has happened to dominant regular season teams when they reach the playoffs. With that in consideration, it will be hard for them to take it easy the rest of the way, even with them basically sleep walking through the regular season so far.

Similar to last season The Morgans are slowing down at the wrong time but their easy schedule has prevented it from affecting them. 7 of the last 10 teams to play them have scored below 115 points, including 6 of the last 8. That type of consistent ease of schedule makes it nearly impossible to lose many games, but like McCoy, they continue to score points and are still arguably the best team in the league capable of beating anyone.

The playoffs will tell the tale for each of these two teams. Will their regular season success over inflate the actual quality of the team, just like it has each of the last two seasons for both of them, or will they continue their momentum through the playoffs. It is a fascinating storyline considering McCoy and The Morgans have a combined (3-9) playoff record over the last three season's. This year's MFFL playoffs will once again be off the chain, with many a storyline to digest. This week will paint the picture with even more detail.

Match-Up Build-Up Week 11

Week 11 has arrived and the stakes are clearly visible. Most of the match-ups feature strong teams against below average ones, with the exception being TPD vs Tavon. So this week we will breakdown the teams still fighting for a playoff spot.

-The Real McCoy- (9-1) 
It has been a charmed season for McCoy yet again. He was down entering Monday Night Football last week, but Kittle came through, securing 9 catches, after previously receiving more than 5 catches in a game just once, leading to a come back victory over UB. They are now one win away from breaking the longest winning streak in MFFL history, set last season at 9 by The Morgans. They have scored the most points in the league, but it is a bit misleading as they once again did not score the most points in the league last week, meaning they've scored the most points in a week just twice all season, while still somehow being on a 9 game win streak. They far and away have had the easiest schedule in the league. Teams are averaging a pitiful 116 points per game against them. Every other team but one, the morgans, are average over 130 ppg scored against them. That is a truly startling statistic, and it speaks to how helpful their schedule has been even with their large point totals each week. The playoffs are all but a certainty at this point. They will be hoping to secure the top spot in order to avoid The Morgans or TPD. We have seen this script before with this franchise, they will be hoping for more playoff success this time around. What a year it has been.

-The Glorious Morgans- (8-2) 
They predictably bounced back last week after a poor showing the week before, winning a crucial game against TPD. It makes them the front runner for the Eastern crown. Similar to McCoy they received an atypical TE performance, with Ertz securing 14 catches for 150 yards and 2 TDs. It was a true godsend, as they would have lost the match-up without such an explosion from a TE. Still, the rest of the squad was impressive and they proved a major point. If not for their collapse against McCoy, this team would have been considered the best at this stage of the season, but outside of TPD, each team has fallen victim to playing poorly against McCoy, so do not read much into it. They are once again steam rolling towards the playoffs with a potential repeat clash against TPD. After sweeping TPD in the regular season last year, TPD got one back in a playoff victory with some smooth managerial decisions. Facing TPD for a 3rd time again this year is probably the last thing they want at this point. The Ertz explosion may have covered up the fact that for two straight weeks they haven't been as good. We'll see if the trend continues. A late season slowing was what hindered them last season too.

-The Perpetual Dynasty- (7-3) 
TPD left a large amount of points on their bench last week. They had every opportunity to beat The Morgans but failed to do so. It was a disappointing defeat but one the will in all likelihood be irrelevant towards their rest of season outlook. They are loaded with studs at WR and RB, and perhaps have the best rest of season outlook considering their depth, and the fact that they have not wasted some of their best players weeks, (looking at you 41 point Ertz) as teams ahead of them may have to deal with. No one wants to play this team late in the year, evidenced by TPD's two straight ships. They have a crucial game this week against the team directly below them in the standings. A win in that game would almost certainly nail down a playoff spot, even though it would not be a full certainty. 

-Tavon and Only- (6-4) 
Tavon has put up impressive point totals and would seem to be the default favorite to obtain the 4th playoff spot. Unfortunately for them, three of their next four games are against the three teams directly ahead of them in the standings. They may get bounced by the fact alone, even if they perhaps deserved better based on their performance this season. If they somehow make the playoffs it will be truly earned based on their schedule to finish the year.

-El Pollo Loco- (5-5)
It has been an up and down season for Loco once again. They are hoping the East picks itself apart and leaves a playoff slot available to them in doing so. They play McCoy and the Morgans in two of their last four games, so like Tavon, securing a playoff spot would be much earned on their parts.

-La Flama Blanca- (5-5)
Truly barley holding their head above water, LFB will benefit from a soft schedule the next two weeks. They need to keep winning in order to have any hope of the playoffs. Making it is all that matters, as they can blow up any week and beat any body. The playoffs are a whole different animal compared to the regular season, and la flama could possibly prove that point were they to make the playoffs.

UB is technically not out of it, but it would take a miracle. Rationally there are 6 teams fighting for 4 spots. Here we go, week 11 style.

Match-Up Build-Up Week 10

Week 9's game of the week fell flat but crucial victories were won across the MFFL, as well as upsetting defeats. Week 10 is here and the playoff picture is really taking shape. Three teams at the top are favorites to secure a spot eventually, while four other teams jockey for what could be only one playoff spot remaining. Wild times as always in the MFFL. Lets break it down.

1. The Perpetual Dynasty (7-2) vs The Glorious Morgans (7-2)
Overview: The Morgans hold a slim lead in the East over TPD by a minuscule 12 points. The winner this week may take the pole position towards an eastern division crown.
Team Notes: TPD is rolling. They have won 5 straight games and scored the most points in the league last week. They are strong at the top and have acquired key depth along the way with multiple pieces via trade and free agency. This team is trying to make a run at a 3peat and they have as good a shot as any to do so. Their gameday managing has been on point this season, a theme of each of their consecutive championships each of the last two years. Having a strong team while also being able to handle adversity better than any one else make this squad serious contenders for the ship once again.
The Morgans fell flat last week in the game of the year in the MFFL. A fall from grace was coming but last week was a hard drop. We wouldn't read too much into it. The Morgans are still loaded and more than likely will bounce back this week. Assuming Gurley gets back to doing Gurley things the squad will be fine. The bench is not as deep as previously hoped, with up and down play from secondary RBs, but this is still one of the best teams in the league. Do not be swayed by one bad week.

Game Notes: TPD has three of their best players on Thursday Night, not a good thing for TPD as Thursday's historically go bad for them. Both teams are home heavy.

Match-up Breakdown:
TPD- Average (++++, =, ---) Some very good some very bad
TGM- Good (+++, ====, -) Solid match-ups. 
Key Battle: FLEX
This match-up is extremely close between two elite teams. The Morgans have had TPD's number for a while and a bounce back from week should be expected. TPD needs to have Thursday finish well or they are doomed. Three players on Thursday is unprecedented. This is a key game in the race for the eastern crown, even if both are still front runners for a playoff spot regardless of the outcome. This is a huge game folks. We will know a lot about the rest of this match-up following Thursday's results.

The rest of the match-ups feature clear favorites who have to take care of business in order to keep pace in the playoff race. McCoy has won 8 games in a row and is stoppable at the moment. A win against an up and down Unstopa-Bo would tie the record for longest win streak ever. It has been a blessed season considering they've scored the most points in a week just twice, while having a super soft schedule during a season in which points are being scored at an all time high. Five of their eight wins have come when their opponent failed to score more than 103, with four of them scoring well below 100. Yes they are scoring points, but their soft schedule has helped them get wins during the eight weeks in which they did not score the most points of the week. Tavon has to take advantage of a soft match-up this week. Their schedule down the stretch is daunting. Loco and Bo continue to duke it out in the West, hoping the East picks itself apart. La Flama has taken on water, losing 5 of 6 games, but at least they scored a decent point total last week. Don't count LFB out, they have an extremely soft schedule the next three weeks. It's go time. Week 10 promises to be a critical week. Let's do this. 

Match-Up Build-Up Week 9

Week 8 Review: The Morgans and McCoy will not stop. TPD quietly having a great season. UB fighting.

Hard to believe we are entering week 9 of the MFFL season. This week 9 is especially special as we have two teams on an historic pace meeting in the octagon. The Morgans and McCoy are each on 7 game winning streaks. Their roster's have been blowing up seemingly every week. But now it has to end for one of them, assuming there is no tie. They've scored points and neither team has faced any sort of stress, with each team having far and away the easiest schedules in the league. The stars have aligned for these two teams, dating back to each of the last three seasons. And now they meet to settle the score.

1. The Real McCoy (7-1) vs The Glorious Morgans (7-1)
Overview: What a match-up this is. Neither team has slowed from a hot start and both feel they should be the top dog this season. It very well could be a preview of the championship match-up for this season, and it would be utterly shocking if either of them did not make the playoffs. A collapse of epic proportions would have to happen to prevent either of them from having a special season. Match-ups like this, at this point in the season, are rare, sit back and enjoy the show.
Team Notes: Even with Julio and Gordon on bye last week McCoy still scored over 160 points. There is simply nothing in the shape of stress that has affected this team. No matter who has been in their starting lineup, that player has scored in bunches. It is very similar to the Morgans of last season. The early pick-up of Mahomes continues to be one of the best of all time, right along with TPD's pick up of Conner this year, and who could have seen this season coming from Adam Thielen. Not even in their wildest dreams would McCoy have expected that type of production from those two players, but when you are McCoy players come to play for you. Everything this team touches turns to gold.
The Morgans cannot be stopped. They lead the league in points and continue their unbelievable pace of winning almost every game they play. Their heart and soul is undoubtedly Todd Gurley. Most of what The Morgans have they owe to him. Overall they are averaging a vintage TPD 154 points per game. Outside of Gurley, they may not have as many bonafide stars as some of the other top teams, but they have the best quality depth in the league, with their RB and WR cores going four deep with weekly starters. Just like McCoy, nothing has presented even the slightest bit of stress for this team. No matter the week, no matter the players, this team has balled out.

Game Notes: Morgans are back loaded. Morgans have Ertz and Boyd on bye. McCoy has Mack on bye.
Matchup breakdown: 
TGM: Poor (+, =====, --) Difficult match-ups
TRM: Average (++, ====, --) Not as bad as the Morgans but nothing great really. 
Key Battle: Gordon vs Gurley
MFFL seasons should not be as easy as it has been for both of these teams. Conventional wisdom would suggest that poor play or poor circumstance will find them at some point, but with these two teams it is less certain. Still, as has been discussed, it is fair to wonder if some of their best weeks are behind them. It will be hard to get hot late in the year when this is the standard. They will hope the standard remains a constant, which is a difficult ask. If the standard is constant then one or both of these teams are destined for an amazing season of MFFL football. They are titans. This is an unbelievable matchup.

2. The Perpetual Dynasty (6-2) vs La Flama Blanca (4-4)
Overview: The East match-up on center stage for this week checks in at #2.
Team Notes: TPD is quietly having a fantastic season. They've won four straight and are averaging 144 ppg. The win last week was orchestrated by some terrific gameday managing. The entire fantasy community was telling TPD to start Winston over Wilson, but TPD trusted their own experience and expertise and started the player no one else would have. It worked. Their gameday managing is their ace up their sleeve compared to other opponents. They are not afraid to go out on a limb if their instincts dictate so.
LFB has scored under 100 points in three of four games. When they don't blow up they struggle to get solid points from their stars. It has been all or nothing this year. Based on the fact that they have had a few down weeks in a row, and they're playing TPD, expect a bounce back performance. This is a crucial game in the East for both teams.

3. El Pollo Loco (4-4) vs Unstopa-Bo (3-5)
This Western division clash is pivotal. Both of these teams are still alive due to playing in the West, where wins are more easily obtainable. Loco is (3-1) against the West this year and (1-3) against the East. Both of these teams will try to survive and somehow make the playoffs, where anything is possible. They need the East to pick itself a part. This is a huge game.

Match-Up Build-Up Week 8

Week 7 Recap: Morgans and McCoy are unstoppable. TPD fails to scored 130 for first time but still  remains productive in a victory. Tavon proves a point.

Week 8 of the MFFL season has arrived. The East division has four teams with a winning record while the West has one. That is unbelievable. The East is going to partake in multiple bloodbaths until the end of the season and whomever comes out alive will certainly feel fortunate to do so.

1. The Perpetual Dynasty (5-2) vs Tavon and Only (4-3)
Overview: This is one of those Eastern bloodbaths. Both teams are playing extremely well. This is perhaps the most important and influential game in the MFFL so far this season, as the games will only get bigger as the playoffs near.
Team Notes: TPD failed to score 130 points last week for the first time all season, but just barely, as they finished with 127. If not for the ungodly dominance of The Morgans and McCoy, TPD would be viewed as having a season akin to the performances early on in their MFFL career. They made yet another blockbuster trade this week, acquiring Antonio Brown. They make many high profile moves, and some work out while others don't. In taking the most risks in the league they have had two straight up and down regular season's but two straight championships. Hilariously, TPD has had to bench many of their high profile payers they have traded for in the playoffs. It is their gameday managing that has won two straight ships, not simply the players they have traded for. No one else even considers constructing such trade offers for big named talent, and no one would consider benching said talent after acquiring them. But that is quintessential TPD.
Tavon is on fire. Their last three point totals are 167, 165, 159. They made a huge trade a week ago acquiring Michael Thomas, giving away a good portion of their quality depth. Their starting lineup is now on par with any in the league. It was a move Tavon has been reluctant to make over the last two seasons but it is clear they are going for it all this year and they feel they have the team to do it. They had a statement victory a week ago against LFB and now they are faced with yet another crucial game.

Game Notes: Keenan Allen is on bye for Tavon, while both teams have multiple players in the 1:00pm time slot. TPD is heavy home slated.
Match-up breakdown: 
TPD: Average (++, =====, -) Nothing too crazy but nothing very exploitable. 
Tavon: Average (++, ====, --) Some good some bad.
Key Battle: Wilson vs Roethlisberger
This game is extremely close on paper. Neither team can feel like they have a significant edge anywhere in the match-up. TPD has played great but is still waiting for their blow up performances. Tavon has been blowing up and hopes for a continuation. This game will not knock either of these teams out, but a win would go a long way in the East division. This is a tremendous match-up in the ever intriguing MFFL and it may be the best match-up of the year to date.

2. The Glorious Morgans (6-1) vs La Flama Blanca (4-3)
Overview: The 2nd epic game in the East division this week notches in at #2 for match-up of the week.
Team Notes: The Morgans are an unstoppable rebel force. They scored 173 points last week and continue to destroy the entire MFFL. Their team feels like a TPD team from the league's early beginnings. The main source of their power is Todd Gurley, who has been putting up monster performances every week this season. It is unlikely this pace can continue at this consistency but nothing has indicated that they will be slowing down anytime soon. One question this week is whether or not they will be looking ahead to their epic clash next week against McCoy.
LFB fell hard last week scoring 86 points. It is their 3rd game this season scoring under 91 points. Their short comings have been well discussed, and unfortunately it has been a consistent theme all season. They need this victory in order to keep up in the east division. They will be hoping for a down game from the Morgans and a blow up performance from themselves, which is always a possibility with this roster.

Game Notes: Flama has Ryan and Smith on bye. Each team is slightly back loaded. Both teams have multiple players on the road.
Match-up breakdown:
TGM: Average (+, =====, --) Not the best match-ups.
LFB: Average (++, ====, --) Very average, some good some bad.
Key Battle: Gurley vs Kamara

3. The Real McCoy (6-1) vs ShowMeYourTDs (2-4-1)
McCoy is rolling just like The Morgans. Even without the services of Gordon last week it didn't matter, they played great and got the victory. Nothing has gone wrong for this franchise and their start to the season, along with the Morgans, has been a sight to be hold. The question is whether or not they will be looking ahead to next week's showdown. Playing in the West division gives them an edge over every other top team in the league this season. Smooth sailing.
TDs made a landmark trade this week, sending off the top pick in the draft. It was a power move and one understandable considering the hole they are in. They now have more quality across the board and will try out their new toys this week.

Match-Up Build-Up Week 7

Week 6 Recap: McCoy and Tavon put on a show, The Morgans and TPD continue to play well. LFB gets another blow up individual performance.
Week 7 has arrived and the MFFL standings are beginning to solidify. The teams at the top hope for continued success while the lower tier needs to start winning now if they have any hope of a playoff season. Points continue to be scored at an all time high, but the weather is turning, and the way teams orchestrate their offense will change with it.


1. La Flama Blanca (4-2) vs Tavon and Only (3-3)
Overview: Two teams playing well, sitting in the top 5 of the standings, match-up for a crucial Eastern division clash.
Team Notes: LFB's formula for winning this season has been simple... have at least one player blow up every week. Four different starters for LFB scored under 9 last week, but three others scored over 25. It is fair to wonder how sustainable such a formula is but it was impressive considering Kamara was out on bye. Seemingly aware of certain needs, LFB spent $40 this week on Ito Smith to perhaps solidify more consistency on the roster. LFB's firepower will when them many games this season, but they have to find more consistent ways of scoring points. Some of their stars best games are well behind them.
Tavon scored the 2nd most points in the league last week, but unfortunately played the highest scoring team. They are playing extremely well but have faced a brutal schedule this season. The surprising play of Ebron and Sanders has validated the depth of the squad. They are real contenders if they can start getting better scheduling luck.

Game Notes: Tavon has Ben and JuJu on bye. LFB is massively back loaded while Tavon also has key players late.
Match-up breakdown:
LFB: Poor (+, ====, ---) Nothing exploitable here.
Tavon: Great (++++, ===, -) Smooth sailing, maybe one bad match-up.
Key Battle: Kamara vs Barkley
What makes this the match-up of the week is what is at stake. Neither team can afford to slip in the eastern division standings. Tavon has been more consistent, while LFB has been more unpredictable. These teams may not be in the top tier currently, but a win this week would catapult them into position.

2. El Pollo Loco (3-3) vs The Real McCoy (5-1)
Overiew: If not for the putridness of the West division, this game would have been the top match-up.
Team Notes: Loco's inconsistent nature was unfortunately on display this past week. They scored the 2nd lowest point total of the week. Over the course of their MFFL career they have struggled to string important wins together, having never won more than 3 games in a row in a single season. They need this win against an elite opponent to revitalize the hope, if not it would be a 3rd straight loss. Working in their favor is a soft schedule down the stretch. They are probably hoping the East division will pick itself apart.
McCoy silenced some doubters last week, putting up huge points against an opponent who finally came to play against them. It is a reminder that McCoy has the uncanny ability to adapt to fit the needs of the situation. When they need a blow up week they get it, and when they can take a week off and secure an easy victory they do it. Everything they have touched this season has turned to gold, rather like the Morgans of last year. They have been scoring touchdowns at a ridiculous clip, and an inevitable dip in TD production is perhaps they only thing they could be concerned about. But things fall into place for this franchise and concern is but only a word at the present moment.

Game Notes: Loco will need an early lead as McCoy has stars late. No bye week concerns.
Match-up breakdown:
Loco: Average (++,====,--) Solid match-ups overall
McCoy: Average (++,====,--) Very similar to Loco
Key Battle: Edelman vs Jackson
The two games this season between these teams are the match-ups of the year in the West division. In all likelihood the West will be won by one of these teams. The victor on Sunday can stake an early claim for throne.

3. The Perpetual Dynasty (4-2) vs ShowMeYourTDs (2-3-1)
Overview: Yet another key game for standings jockeying is on tap for week 7.
Team Notes: TPD continued their hot start to the season, once again scoring above 130 points. No other team had scored over 130 in each game to start a season beyond week 3, and TPD is now entering week 7 with the record intact. They have been able to win games with a few big individual performances, but overall the roster as a whole week to week has been extremely consistent. They'll be hoping for the blow up individual performances to come when they need them. A question mark for this team is the status of James Conner moving forward. Arguably one of the greatest free agency pick ups of all time, Conner's role is uncertain until more news about Bell surfaces. Either way TPD still has more than enough talent to compete the rest of the way.
TDs is struggling to score points this season and this week they are riddled with injuries and bye weeks. Most teams around the league would not give TDs a chance in this match-up, but it is in those games that teams seemingly always beat TPD. TDs will be hoping for TPD's terrible circumstance to be present once more for this match-up.

4. The Glorious Morgans (5-1) vs Unstopa-Bo (2-4)
The Morgans are feasting. If not for an 129 point game earlier this season, they would be sitting right next to TPD with 130 points in every game this season. The MFFL has never seen a run like this. They are now (21-5) in their last 26 regular season games. If not for an (0-4) playoff record in their last four playoff games, this franchise would be at the top of the food chain.

Match-Up Build-Up Week 6

The MFFL's 1st rivalry week of the season is here. No season prior has there been such discrepancies of strength between one division vs the other. But that is what happens when one division has double the win totals of the other.

1. The Glorious Morgans (4-1) vs El Pollo Loco (3-2)
Overview: A young rivalry within the MFFL, these two teams embark on the first of two eventual battles this season. Each of these teams have been putting up major point totals over the last two seasons.
Team Notes: The Morgans continue to roll. They still have the most points in the league and are on a 4 game winning streak. They've been winning games with huge TD totals each week, leading the league in touchdowns scored. We are running out of adjectives to describe the run the Morgans have been on for the last few seasons. Maybe this stat will illustrate their dominance...they have a (20-5) record in their last 25 regular season games played. Pure dominance. The target is squarely on the back of the Morgans.
Loco got TPDed last week when they scored the 4th most points in the league yet came away with a defeat. They've been on a tear recently leading up to this mega match-up and they look to have gotten over their inconsistent nature of the last year or two. They play the Morgans and McCoy the next two weeks, the two current division leaders. Success against either of those franchises would put the franchise on the path towards their 2nd straight playoff appearance. Working in Loco's favor seems to be improved gameday managing, which will be big down the stretch as they have multiple decisions to make each week considering the depth of their roster.

Game Notes: The Morgans are mega back loaded. The Morgans will have to wait another week before getting Ingram in the lineup as he is on bye.
Match-up breakdown:
TGM: Good (+++,====,-) Tremendous match-ups at the top of the lineup.
Loco: Average (++, ====, --) Not the best match-ups but a few exploitable ones.
Key Battle: Kelce vs Ertz
What a game to kick off rivalry week. Neither team has much to prove other than trying to acquire more wins in pursuit of a great season. Sit back and enjoy the show.

2. The Real McCoy (4-1) vs Tavon and Only (3-2)
Overview: A lopsided rivalry throughout the years is near the top of week 6's best games.
Team Notes: McCoy continues to win games in ways no other manager could dream. Even with a 31 point game out of Isiah Crowell, McCoy finished middle of the pack for points scored last week. They are (4-1), but have yet to finish 1st or 2nd in points for a single week this season, and are often finishing 4th or 5th most weeks. It is their consistency which is so impressive as they are 2nd in the league in touchdowns scored and have the 3rd most points overall. They're still playing at a high level, but the lack of adversity this team has faced is startling, especially in a season when points are at an all time high. Over their last four weeks, the league is averaging 97 ppg against them.
Tavon is quietly having a strong season. They have yet to score below 120 in any game and stand at (3-2). They had their best week of the season last week and proved they can hang with the big boys with a huge victory over Loco. Their next three games are against McCoy, LFB, and TPD. Success against those three teams would put them near the top of the east division.

Game Notes: Tavon is massively front loaded. No influential bye weeks to contend with here.
Match-up breakdown:
TRM: Good (+++, ====, -) Maybe one bad match-up.
Tav: Terrible (====, ----) Not a single good match-up to be found.
Key Battle: Barkley vs Gordon. BONUS Sanders vs Edelman.
Tavon better hope for some serious craziness to ensue on Sunday if they are to break through those match-ups. Maybe having terrible match-ups is the way to break through the McCoy magic...unlikely. If the East division also doesn't score against McCoy like the West, there will be no stopping them.

3. The Perpetual Dynasty (3-2) vs Imposing Monstrosity (0-4-1)
Overview: Would you believe it if I told you Stros is unbeaten against TPD?
Team Notes: TPD played great once again last week and is still the only team yet to score below 130. They also had a much needed break in schedule difficulty as their opponent failed to score 120 for the first time all season. They have scored the 2nd most points in the league and continue to make multiple moves each week trying to improve an already strong roster.
Stros is still looking for their first win after a tie a week ago. They will use TPD's old players against them this week in a effort to break through. TPD will in all likelihood be facing five of their former players this week. Yikes.

Game Notes: TPD has M. Thomas on bye while Stros has Brees and K. Johnson. Many 1:00pm start times here. Both teams are home heavy.
Match-up breakdown: 
TPD: Good (++++, ===, -) Maybe one bad match-up.
Stros: Good (++++, ===, -) Maybe one bad match-up. 
Key Battle: Winston vs Dalton

4. ShowMeYourTDs (2-2-1) vs Unstopa-Bo (1-4)
This has been one of the better rivalries over the years with multiple close games between them. It is crunch time for both of these teams. TDs is wishing they played in the west division right now.

5. La Flama Blanca (3-2) vs HydeMyChubbyJohnson (1-4)
LFB had a chance to answer some questions a week ago, but they came out flat and left much unanswered. It is a different looking team when Kamara isn't scoring 30 ppg. With Kamara and Fournette out of their lineup this week, Hyde could steal a victory, something LFB can ill afford while playing in the East. This has also been a close rivalry over the years and this week looks no different.

Match-Up Build-Up Week 5

The MFFL continues to score points in droves and the East division further demonstrates it's superiority.

1. La Flama Blanca (3-1) vs The Real McCoy (3-1)

Overview: Two of the top teams in the league battle in week 5's top match-up. We should learn a lot from this match-up as these teams have the 1st and 2nd easiest schedules in the league to date.
Team Notes: LFB lost last week to end their perfect season. They were lucky to be in the contest as five separate players scored under 10 points, but Alvin Kamara's special start to this season kept him in it right up to the end. This team is still tough to pin down as they have the 2nd easiest schedule and have survived by having blow up individual performances each week. It is concerning how many players on their roster have most likely already had their best weeks of the season. Even with the question marks, a (4-1) start would be fantastic for this franchise. Their style is unconventional, and perhaps unsustainable, but it is working. They look to validate themselves this weekend.
McCoy blew up last week with five separate great performances. It covered up some disappointing performances from other roster members but they now have the 2nd most points in the league. Their laughably easy schedule got even easier a week ago as their opponent scored 77 points. They're obviously scoring enough points to compete each week but there is no doubt their soft schedule has contributed to their early season success. The weakness of the West division is setting into motion a potential run away season for McCoy. They're balanced, score points, and have a schedule paved in gold. Deja vu?

Game Notes: McCoy's Jordan Howard is the only bye week loss. McCoy gets Edelman back from suspension and will immediately insert him into the starting lineup. A +30 year old quick cutting slot WR coming of an acl tear has obvious risk, but the reward could be big. LFB is back loaded, McCoy is front loaded. No drastic H/A splits.
Match-up breakdown:
LFB: Average (++, ====, --) A couple great and a few bad.
McCoy: Good (++++, ===, -) Good match-ups across the board.
Key Battle: Gordon vs Kamara
It is a bigger game for LFB considering their upcoming battles with Eastern division opponents. Even with the fortunate circumstance for both teams, each of them are top dogs for the 2018 season. Don't miss a second of this one.

2. El Pollo Loco (3-1) vs Tavon and Only (2-2)
Overview: A massive inter-league game is set for week 5's 2nd best match-up.
Team Notes: Loco failed to put faith in their team ahead of last week's match-up with TPD, but the team balled out anyway scoring 163 points. Expect Loco's thoughts regarding their team's potential to change following their crucial week 4 victory. They made a big splash on the trade market this week and are looking to not let the (3-1) start go to waste by targeting key needs with the pieces they acquired. Considering the depth and strength at top, coupled with the seemingly easy nature of the West division, this team could ride a wave far this season. A big game this week would change the perception of Loco's nature, while a poor week would illustrate once again their volatility.
Tavon has slowed a bit after a hot start. With so many blow up individual performances by other teams, Tavon's balanced roster is struggling to seal games. The biggest concern is their schedule, as they play the top western performer as a rival and match-up divisionally with the East. If not for that the outlook for this squad would look much rosier. This is a bigger game for Tavon than it is for loco.

Game Notes: No influential bye weeks to really be worried about. Tavon is heavy front loaded while Loco is back loaded. Even H/A splits.
Match-up Breakdown:
Loco: Poor (++, ===, ---) Not the most welcoming of match-ups.
Tavon: Good (+++, ===, --) Some key blow up spot potential.
Key Battle: Cousins vs Big Ben

3. The Perpetual Dynasty (2-2) vs Unstopa-Bo (1-3)
Overview: A previous championship matchup is a week 5 headliner.
Team Notes: TPD is the only team in the league yet to score below 130 points, but are once again being devoured by the league to start a season. Even with two championships directly in their rear-view, these poor circumstances continue to haunt TPD and make them work seemingly the hardest just to survive and compete late in the season. They were at it again this week, overhauling their roster with multiple big trade splashes. It is a bold strategy for a team playing well but that is the standard set for this franchise, scoring 130 every game is not enough, especially in the face of such poor circumstance. Thursday's have been especially hard on TPD as players on average score 25 points when starting on a Thursday against them. It is still early and everything TPD wants is still well within reach. They would do well to remember the nature of each of their last two season's.
Bo exploded last week for their 1st victory of the young season. Surprisingly they have scored over 140 on two separate occasions, though the other two games have seen them struggle to score 100. It is a mystery as to which team will show up for week 5. Led by Watson, Diggs, and Zeke, this team has major blow up potential any given week. They need this victory to remain competitive, and the victory would put them right back in the thick of it in the West.

Game Notes: TPD may be without Gronk, while Bo may be without Hilton. No bye week concerns. Thursday will be big in determining this week's outcome. Even H/A splits.
Match-up breakdown:
TPD: Average (+++, ==, ---) Some great and some terrible
Bo: Average (+, ======, -) Stark difference in terms of match-up nature.
Key Battle: McCaffrey vs Zeke BONUS Rivers vs Watson

4. HydeMyChubbyJohnson(1-3)vsThe Glorious Morgans(3-1)
Team Notes: Hyde is improving, as each week they have scored more than the last. But they have to start wining games fast or the season unfortunately will look too similar to the disappointments of the recent past.
The Morgans continue to score points in a hurry. They are the top team in the league currently, though you'd never know it by the anxiety they show come Sundays, as they are seemingly always fearful of a defeat no matter how far the cards are stacked in their favor. The fact is this franchise is a top dog in the MFFL and with it brings pressure. This team will be favored in the majority of the games they play. Don't let their Sunday coach speak foul you, it is similar to that of a Jim Tressel. Their one concern may be similar to LFB, being that some of their players have more than likely had their best weeks.

The Morgans are without Evans for this week. The emergence of Calvin Ridley have made Chubby more formidable. Even with the top team in the league facing the 9th, this match-up looks somewhat close on paper.

5. ShowMeYourTDs (2-2) vs Imposing Monstrosity (0-4)
Both teams need to win this game. TDs shares a (2-2) record with other league members, even while scoring 20 less points a game than TPD. Their weakness seems to be their RBs, but Freeman may be back this week. A loss this week for TDs would be devastating as they still look to compete each week. Stros overhauled their roster trading away a staggering 5 players in one deal to TPD. He also acquired 5 players and will immediately change the outlook of their starting lineup. It was a necessary move from a desperate team, and their efforts to save their season should be commended.

Match-Up Build-Up Week 4

A wild week 3 which saw multiple matchups decided on Monday night sets the stage for another terrific week of MFFL Football. The East division has been a blood bath while the West already has teams in desperation mode. Week 4 is crucial for more than a few teams in the MFFL.

1. The Perpetual Dynasty (2-1) vs El Pollo Loco (2-1)
Overview: Once rivals, these two teams are familiar with one another. Each coming off critical week 3 victories, this is yet another titanic match-up in the MFFL.
Team Notes: TPD had a fantastic Monday night football comeback to secure a week 3 victory. TPD is killing it right now, averaging 147 points per game while never scoring below 130 to start the year. Though led by two stud WRs, they have received more than serviceable play from their RBs, leading to early season success. They continue to await the return of Doug Baldwin but even without him they have a lineup ready to compete each week. They've faced a brutal schedule so far this season, a trend Loco hopes to maintain in week 4. Expect much of the starting lineup to remain the same outside of QB and defense.
Loco is also off on a great foot for 2018. They sit in 2nd place in the West division and they have come to play in back to back weeks which is sometimes rare for this franchise. The roster construction is such that they only need one good game out of a contributing player in order to beast each week, as the three headed monster of Nuk, McCaffrey, and Kelce is powerful. Questions remain at #2 RB and Flex but having studs at the top, and playing in a weak division give Loco leeway and time to address certain needs. Some of their players have already had arguably their worst weeks of the season, like Kelce and Cousins, so expect continued improvement each week possibly leading to the most consistent Loco squad we have seen in some time.

Game Notes: Bye weeks have begun. Loco is stung by the loss of McCaffrey for this week. No other bye weeks affect the match-up. TPD is majorly back loaded while Loco has two key performers on Thursday night. TPD has home splits while Loco is leaning road heavy.
Match-up breakdown:
TPD: Good (++++, ===, -) Strong match-ups for much of the starting lineup.
Loco: Poor (++, ===, ---) Some really good and some really bad
Key Battle: Beckham vs Hopkins
While not a must win for either team this match-up is dripping with dramatic appeal. Loco is hit with hard match-ups and a crucial bye week blue, but teams tend to play well against TPD. This week's #1 match-up will leave you on the edge of your seat, and is a great way to stay in shape.

2. The Glorious Morgans (2-1) vs Tavon and Only (2-1)
Overview: A hugely important East division clash checks in at #2 for this week.
Team Notes: The Morgans continue to produce at a high level. They've scored the most points through three weeks, edging TPD by 3. Even more impressive is the fact that they have the hardest schedule through three weeks. A win this week could set the stage for yet another magical season for the Morgans as their schedule seemingly gets easier once they start facing opponents from the West. Expect much of the lineup to remain the same for week 4.
Tavon played well last week by came away with a loss. While the loss stings, it should not cloud the facts about this squad. It is the best Tavon team in three years and they have depth to match a strong starting lineup. The only thing that may hold them back is the reiterated discussion point regarding their lack of studs. But so far this season they continue to get whole team efforts so it is hard to doubt them.

Game Notes: No bye weeks here. Tavon is back loaded while the Morgans are front loaded. Almost all of Tavon's match-ups are at home. Morgans need to score a lot early or they will slowly watch a lead bleed away.
Match-up Breakdown: 
TGM: Average (++, ====, --) About as average as they come. 
Tavon: Average (++, =====, -) Same story here but slightly better.
Key Battle: Drake vs Bernard

3. La Flama Blanca (3-0) vs ShowMeYourTDs (1-2)
Overview: The last remaining unbeaten squares off against an east division foe.
Team Notes: La Flama is cruising. They bounced back last week to score over 140 and now sit alone atop the MFFL. There is perhaps no scary player in fantasy right now than Kamara. What a steal at the 7th pick of the draft. Anything is possible with Kamara in their lineup. The team has had the expected ups and downs, just based on roster construction, but a (4-0) start would be a godsend for a team with major question marks on their bench. This squad is similar to the productive LFB teams in years past. Its the best LFB team in 4 years but don't forget about their volatility, one of those wins came when they scored 89 points.
TDs is struggling to score points. They're 4th to last in both the standings and points scored. Looking deeper into the stats however reveal a disturbing trend of TDs making the wrong managerial moves week to week. Four separate players scored more than 16 points on their bench this past week, and they weren't fluky points, as three of the players could have easily started for them if the correct choices were made. TDs has depth but they need to start using it productively. They're still a contending team with a few minor adjustments.

Game Notes: TDs is without three players due to bye and are still without the services of Freeman. LFB has Reed on bye. TDs has heavy road splits and the match-up as a whole will not be decided until late as both teams have multiple late starting games.
Match-up Breakdown: 
LFB: Average (+, ======, -) All average expect for a few
TDs: Average (++,====, --) Some good some bad. 
Key Battle: Wilson vs Ryan

4. The Real McCoy (2-1) vs Imposing Monstrosity (0-3)
Overview: A lopsided match-up on paper checks in at #4.
Team Notes: McCoy is off to yet another terrific start. They have yet to score below 124 points in a game. The pick up of the season, Patrick Mahomes, is destroying the fantasy world. It is the push they needed to get over the top in terms of firepower. They're loaded, and once again they face few challengers across the MFFL due to a soft schedule. No team has benefited more from positive schedule trends throughout MFFL history, and this season has the same script unfolding. Including this week and the last two, McCoy will have played Hyde, Bo, and Stros; the three worst teams in the league right now and the three lowest scoring. Some things never change.
Stros is on life support. Not having Bell or Cook for last week ended the match-up before it even began. They fought tooth and nail but it was not enough. A loss here would send their season into an all out spiral. Much of the blame is deservedly placed at the feet of LeVeon Bell.

Game Notes: No bye week concerns, even home road splits, even game start times.
Match-up Breakdown:
TRM: Average (++, ====, --) Some good some bad
Stros: Average (+, ======, -) Nothing up or down
Key Battle: #2 RB

5. HydeMyChubbyJohnson (1-2) vs Unstopa-Bo (0-3) 
Both teams are struggling to score. Each need a win. Looking at the rosters hope remains, and miraculous turn around, akin to the Morgans in 2016, could be in store for either, but it must start with a win this week.

Match-Up Build-Up Week 3

What does week 3 of the MFFL season have to offer after three separate teams scored over 170 points in week 2.

1. Tavon and Only (2-0) vs La Flama Blanca (2-0)
Overview: The only two unbeaten teams of the MFFL clash in week 3's top match-up. The winner will have an incredible (3-0) start.
Team Notes: Tavon's hot start has been orchestrated by big performances by varying players each of the first two weeks. When one player fails to impress, another steps up in their place. This week they are without Joe Mixon which will no doubt hurt the starting lineup, but Bernard should fill the void nicely. Some of the depth at the beginning of the year has struggled, meaning early season wins are important before bye weeks strike. The adage from last week remains, this team will have huge weeks and weeks in which they fail to score due to the lack of elite players at certain positions. What is clear however is that Tavon will compete this year, something that has been in doubt ever since their championship in 2015.
La Flama is at it again. Last season saw LFB win multiple, close, low scoring games, which helped boost their overall win total, and in week 2 they struck gold once more. They scored 89 points but somehow won their match-up by a 21 point margin. These weeks will happen for most managers in the MFFL but LFB has been on the winning side of these coin flips for much of the last calendar year. When Hill and Kamara are held it check it will be difficult for the rest of the lineup to carry the weight. They need Fournette to get healthy. They will take this win and run with it, though they can't be feeling as confident after such a poor performance.

Game Notes: Tavon has a ridiculous amount of road games this week. Most players kick off at 1:00pm in this match-up. Bye weeks will affect teams starting next week.
Match-up Breakdown:
Tav: Poor (++, ===, ---) Poor match-ups on the road for most of the lineup.
LFB: Good (+++, ===, --) Nothing scary here
Key Battle: #2 RB Fournette vs Bernard
Both of these teams need a key win with uncertainty remaining for their respective squads. What a start to the season it would be for either of them.

2. ShowMeYourTDs (1-1) vs The Glorious Morgans (1-1)
Overview: East division foes do battle in an important match for division supremacy.
Team Notes: TDs is off to a good start. They lost last week but continued to put up decent point totals. Losing Freeman has been a major blow to their RB depth but they have managed to keep their head above water. Impressive is the fact that they are yet to have a blow up game from AB, but that day will come. Questions remain about this team's long term outlook, but their depth will allow them to compete, especially when bye weeks start affecting other teams. They need to get better RBs in the fold.
The Morgans demolished TPD in week 2. Outside of last season's playoff loss, they have beaten TPD 5 straight times in the regular season and have averaged a ridiculous 160+ points against them. It was a statement win for the franchise after last season's playoff defeat. The squad is stacked at multiple positions and are set to make a playoff push once again. Even their bench has quality player makers. They're loaded. Oh, and Mark Ingram comes back from suspension for them in two weeks.

Game Notes: Key late game performers will determine the match-up. Heavy home games for both squads.
Match-up Breakdown:
TDs: Good (++, =====, -) Average to good match-ups across the board.
TGM: Great (+++++, ==, -) Adding a difficult match-up was even a stretch, unbelievable spread.
Key Battle: FLEX Amari Cooper vs Nelson Agholor
Morgans have the edge on paper but TDs may be due for some big games from a few of their guys.

3.The Perpetual Dynasty(1-1)vsHydeMyChubbyJohnson(1-1)
Overview: Two teams with the same record, but different performances, will battle in this week's 3rd best match-up.
Team Notes: TPD played well a week ago but ran into the buzzsaw that is the Morgans. They are averaging over 154 points per game to start the season but their difficult schedule at the start of season's has remained a constant dating back to 2015. Even with the early success TPD has been active on the trade circuit, trading away A.J. Green for David Johnson this week in a risky early season move. The talent and brand names are there, but time will tell if they can break free of their regular season grinding that has been a constant over the last three seasons. They will rely on their gameday managing early in the season,  as their bench takes shape.
Chubby's week one victory proved to be a mirage as expected. While they did improve on week ones point total, they still have yet to score above 118 in their first two games. They shockingly shipped away the #5 overall pick in this season's MFFL draft after only two weeks. But it is fair to wonder if this season's slow start and last season's derailing of Chubby's season due to DJ's injury played a role in the dumping of DJ. It is a bold move but one that may reshape the outlook of their season. They need to start scoring points, especially in a season where teams are blowing up to start the year.

Game Notes: TPD is back loaded, while Chubby has the bulk of action at 1:00pm. Even home road splits.
Match-up Breakdown:
TPD: Average (++, ====, --) Some good some bad.
HCJ: Average (++, ====, --) Nothing daunting here, but nothing easily exploitable.
Key Battle: #1 RB Johnson vs Hunt.
This is a pivotal early season game for both squads.

4. Unstopa-Bo (0-2) vs The Real McCoy (1-1)
Overview: Two Wetsern Division mainstays fight for supremacy in week 3.
Team Notes: UB performed well last week in a losing effort. This is perhaps the most active UB has been on free agency and the results are showing. They may be able to put multiple new starters into their lineup this week in preparation for a big game. Time will tel if this team has the depth to compete, but continued activity in this manner will lead to positive results. They are desperate for a win.
McCoy unleashed some frustration last week scoring 170 points. The pick up of Mahomes may already be the best pick up of the year. Looking down their depth chart, many guys are performing at a high level. They have depth and firepower and are clearly contenders once again, but there is nothing new with regards to that.

Game Notes: Even home road splits. A few late games but mostly 1:00pm.
Match-up Breakdown: 
UB: Good (+++, ===, --) A few great match-ups but some sneaky difficult ones as well.
TRM: Great (+++++, =, -) looking to take advantage of great matchups for the 2nd week in a row.
Key Battle: QB Mahomes vs Watson

5. El Pollo Loco (1-1) vs Imposing Monstrosity (0-2)
Overview: Two unpredictable teams face off in week 3.
Team Notes: Deja vu anyone? Who could have predicted Loco would explode after a down week. Probably just about anyone who follows MFFL football. One would think that a track record such as Loco's would lead this franchise towards a mentality of never getting too high or too low, but if you spend any time around this franchise it is easy to see that they live life in the moment. When they are down, they're down, and when they are up, they are greedy for more. The injury to Freeman has bolstered Loco's RB core as they have Coleman. Future bye weeks may present some issues but this team has some serious fire power, evidenced by last week.
Stros hit rock bottom last week, scoring under 70 points. The loss of Bell is simply devastating. They made a trade this week to bolster their RB core, but the lack of stars at WR and RB will make them reliant on team efforts week in and week out. They have plenty to compete, but an (0-3) start would be a tough hole to climb out of.

Game Notes: Loco is home heavy while each squad has a few late games on the docket.
Match-up Breakdown:
Loco: Good (++, =====, -) Good luck finding a bad match-up here.
Stros: Good (++, ====, -) Mostly smooth sailing across the board, few sticky points.
Key Battle: TE, Kelce vs Gronk, BONUS #2WR Jones vs Hogan

Week 3 is set. Join the party.

Match-Up Build-Up Week 2

It is week two of the MFFL season. Week one saw the East Division sail while the West was left in it's wake. It is never wise to put too much weight into what happens in the season's first week, but a few performances stood out none the less. 

1. The Perpetual Dynasty(1-0) vs The Glorious Morgans(0-1)
Overview: Two of the East's traditional powers do battle in this week's top match-up. Last season's playoff match-up between these two franchise's was an instant classic. Both teams know the task in front of them for this week.
Team Notes: TPD's first game following two championship seasons was magnificent. They scored 163 points in a victory over TRM. Lead by Conner and Thomas, TPD erased an early deficit after a strong Thursday night showing from McCoy and left no doubt as to this match-ups eventual outcome. The savvy pick up of Conner was a power move and the life blood of the week one victory. Entering week 2 TPD's team already looks different than the squad that just put up over 160. They traded away four players for the services of A.J. Green. It was a bold move and one only TPD could have orchestrated. Time will tell if it was too bold.

The Morgans suffered a difficult defeat last week even while scoring 144 points. The team did not deserve to lose but such is life in the ever competitive MFFL. The squad will remain much the same for week 2 and this week's game is perhaps more important for the Morgans, for a loss would give them two divisional defeats to start the 2018 season. They will be out for blood after last season's heartbreaking playoff loss. The Morgans have been waiting for this game for many months.

Gameday Notes: TPD has a few back loaded players but this match-up will be defined by the early performances on Sunday. Neither team has overloaded home/road splits. Bye weeks will not be an issue for another few weeks.
Match-up Breakdown:
TPD: Good (++, =====, -) Green's match-up on Thursday night seems to be the toughest
TGM: Average (+++, ===, --) Some tough match-ups at the top but good in other spots.
Key Battle: #2 RB
The stage is set for yet another showdown between these two juggernauts. Do not miss a single second.



2. ShowMeYourTDs(1-0) vs Tavon and Only(1-0)
Overview: The only match-up featuring two unbeaten teams is the #2 game of the week.
Team Notes: TDs obtained a victory last week while scoring 118 points. That point total wins a few games each year but during a week in which multiple teams blew up it was a fortunate outcome for a team desperate for some good fortune. They traded away Green before this week, bringing in multiple players to add depth and flexibility to their roster. They may be the deepest team in the league currently. Entering week 2 they will look to put the best team on the field, as they have a few lineup decisions to make considering the depth at their disposal.

Tavon exploded a week ago, scoring over 150 points. The young duo of Barkley and Mixon look to be the strength of this team this current moment. They have the feel of last season's top scoring Loco team, where each week has its question marks but the potential fire power is undeniable. Tavon, like TD's, would be thrilled to start (2-0) after years of futility following their championship in 2015.

Gameday Notes: Almost all of TDs players are slated for 1:00pm. Look for this match-up to be decided early. TDs players are road loaded.
Match-up Breakdown:
TDs: Good (+++, ===, --) A few tricky spots but mostly very easily traversed.
TAO: Great (++++, ===, -) It is difficult to find a terrible match-up.
Key Battle: Flex
A great early season start is what each of these franchise's needed. That is what is at stake in week 2.



3. Imposing Monstrosity (0-1) vs La Flama Blanca (1-0)
Overview: Two teams coming off strong week ones square up for the #3 match-up.
Team Notes: Stros played well week one even though it led to a loss. Even more impressive is that they performed well without the services of Leveon Bell. Quite simply it is not the same roster without the 2nd overall pick, but they will try to weather the storm for however long he is out. Even with the uncertainty this is still a team to not sleep on. They have good players everywhere.

LFB scored a 164 points last week. Hill and Kamara are perhaps the two most explosive players at their respective positions and Flama has both of them manning the front-line. This team has major scoring potential. Fournette's injury will be a massive swing for this match-up one way or another. If he plays then LFB starts him, if not, Stros starts Yeldon. Flama has always been near the top of the best franchise's but three straight mediocre seasons seems to have lit a fire for this team.

Gameday Notes: Stros has tons of 4:00pm games. It will be decided late. Much of Stros' lineup is on the road.
Match-up Breakdown:
Stros: Good (+++, ===, --) Balanced but leaning good most areas.
LFB: Good (+++, ===, --) Some good, some bad, but none too daunting.
Key Battle: TE

4. HydeMyChubbyJohnson(1-0) vs The Real McCoy(0-1)
Overview: Two teams with records not matching their week one performances look to flip the script in week 2.
Team Notes: Chubby won last week but scored only 101 points and would have lost to almost everyone else in the league had they played them. A win is a win and this team will not give anything back. The strength of their team is their starting RBs, neither of which had a great game a week ago, making the win extremely fortunate. If they come to play this week it could lead to a (2-0) start to this season. What a start that would be for this franchise.

McCoy lost last week due to the onslaught of TPD, but they played well. They made multiple free agent pick ups this week, cutting dead weight off their roster and inserting many of the new players into their starting lineup. It is an atypical move for this franchise but one that may have been necessary following some injuries and poor performances at a few positions. Never doubt this team, but a potential (0-2) start is for sure not the way this team envisioned starting their season.

Gameday Notes: Hyde has some back loaded guys while McCoy is almost all at 1:00pm. Both are road heavy.
Match-up Breakdown:
Chubby: Average (++, ====, --) Some great and some terrible.
McCoy: Great (+++, ====, -) They need to strike considering some of the match-ups they have.
Key Battle: Defense

5. El Pollo Loco(0-1) vs Unstopa-Bo(0-1)
Overview: The only match-up with teams looking for their first win. Neither team liked what they saw last week but do not overreact to week one.
Team Notes: Loco scored the fewest points int he league last week, a stark contrast form last season's top scoring output. McCaffrey, Kelce, and Nuke were all kept underwraps last week, how long does anyone expect that to continue. This team will compete all year, but a loss this week will further lower their confidence following their best season to date. Don't forget the nature of this franchise, they have very bad weeks and very explosive ones. A major output this week would follow that trend.
Bo's lineup is such that they need team efforts every week in order to remain competitive. They have some big names but have some real weaknesses across the board. They need wins now before bye weeks hit. This is probably a bigger game for them than it is for loco. If Watson gets back to pre-injury form then the lineup will look much different.

Gameday Notes: Mostly 1:00pm but Bo has some late match-ups to try and steal a victory. Multiple road games for loco.
Match-up Breakdown:
Loco: Average (++, =====, -) Mostly average match-ups across the board.
Bo: Average to Poor (++, ====, --) Mostly average but tough, nothing easily exploitable.
Key Battle: So many close match-ups but #1RB may be the most important.

The week 2 slate is set, it often never looks like week one. Hold on to your butts.