AFC: Zerger's Week Nine Preview

By Redlegs​ manager Lance Zerger

Week eight did not bring really any close games like week seven did. The closest game was a three-point battle between the Vultures and Warm Bodies. However this game was pretty much over by the time the Warm Bodies played their last guy. The Cocks finally won something, although it wasn't a game: they now own the longest losing streak in OklahomIraqi League history. Not sure that is something to be proud of. 

Below are the standings heading into week nine. The Vultures own the outright first place with the best record, the Brewmasters fell all the way down to third place this week with a loss. The Redlegs benefitted from an OIL record passing performance by Drew Brees. Week nine previews after the jump.  

#11 Sawtooths vs. 12 Negligent Discharges

The Sawtooths have several players on a bye this week, and it seems that the Negligent Discharges are looking to get back to their winning ways with an uneven matchup this week. It appears that they have the advantage and with the way the Sawtooths' luck has been going this year, I would say they should be the favorite to win this game. However, it will be lucky for the Discharges to find a way to win this one. This is also the uniform matchup of the week. I like the way these uniforms complement each other.

#9 Hooligans vs. #14 Cocks

When the lineups are set in this game, I think this will be the Cocks' best chance at a win so far this year. Demarco Murray will be headed back to Dallas to face his former team. The Cocks need to adjust their lineup and look to play to their strengths. I like the Cocks in this one for the Upset of the Week. 

#2 Doughboys vs. #5 Rebel Alliance

This is the matchup of the week right here, the Rebel Alliance are riding five straight wins after starting out 0-3. This match up will end up being a push at Vegas. The only thing worth betting on here is the over/under. I like the Doughboys in a tough matchup. 

#13 Mutinous Apes vs. #10 Hillier

As if things could not get worse for the Apes, he faces Hillier FF and has all three starting WRs on bye this week. I do not know of a team that would be able to fill these holes and still have a realistic chance of winning this game. I like Hillier FF in this one, I like them to win in convincing fashion. Hang in there Walt; a win will come soon enough.

#3 Brewmasters vs. #8 Warm Bodies

The Brewmasters have lost two out of their last three games but will get back on a winning streak this week. The Warm Bodies do not have a RB to replace their bye week players as of yet. Even if the Warm Bodies pick up a RB, I do not believe it gives them a chance to win this game. I like the Brewmasters in this one.

#1 Vultures vs. #4 Steel Reign

This is a huge game for Steel Reign. I do not like using "must win" this early in the season, but this game is crucial for Steel Reign. This would be their second straight loss. They also have a big group of talented players that are on bye week and will have some slots to feel. I still believe that the Vultures get it done this week and stay atop first place all by their lonesome.

#6 Redlegs vs. #7 War Pony

I had a brief text/conversation with CSM Venable this week and as I wished him luck he stated, "I am going to need it because I have a lot of people on bye week." This is a reoccurring theme for week nine. I believe he has the personnel to feel those holes but not quite to the talent level that he would want. I think the Redlegs should win this game. (Since I am writing this article, I am sure they will lose since I said that.)

I hope everyone had a safe Halloween and is gearing up for the winter months and holidays that are coming right around the corner. Remember some people do not have family or may be away from family during the holidays, so be sure to reach out to old friends and check in on them.