Author Topic: TEAM: RAPID CITY INFERNO (Read 114251 times)

Talon · « **Reply #2450 on:** August 04, 2018, 04:58:28 PM »

We need to really reconsider our defensive set up in the off-season, I think our current set up is just not a good fit, I don't think our offense is as to blame as our defense.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2451 on:** August 04, 2018, 05:29:34 PM »

I can see where you’re coming from with that coach. Deep down, I can see our defensive deficiencies causing our offence to press which causes them to make more turnovers and not complete.

Now by reconsider, do you mean the scheme we run or just the players we have to run it? Changing the scheme might mean a different direction at coordinator...

Talon · « **Reply #2452 on:** August 04, 2018, 05:36:13 PM »

I think a traditional 4-3 defense that has the ability to run a successful nickle package on passing downs is what you need to be successful in the HIFL. I don't see many 3-4's dominating the league.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2453 on:** August 04, 2018, 05:50:43 PM »

That is a good point. 3-4 seems to only work if you’re absolutely loaded.

Would you also be advocating for a coach change? Coach Barbour wasn’t exactly a fan of the 4-3 when we were running it, though admittedly that’s because we didn’t have the personnel to do so.

Talon · « **Reply #2454 on:** August 04, 2018, 07:17:11 PM »

I love Coach Barbour, but if we can find someone better suited for the defense, we have to do what is best for our championship aspirations.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2455 on:** August 04, 2018, 07:24:10 PM »

Duly noted. Let’s put a pin in that for now - I don’t think it makes sense to switch mid season. I am planning to talk to Coach Barbour about the defense, so maybe he and I will touch on a few of those things.

Before I do that though, is there anything you wanted to discuss about the offense? Obviously missing Ralph is tough but Stands hasn’t been all that terrible when called upon. Do you see him moving into Ralph’s spot or should we slot Wagner or Pond there and leave Stands where he is?

Talon · « **Reply #2456 on:** August 04, 2018, 07:37:17 PM »

No, I want Stands on the outside, and one of the others in at WR3.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2457 on:** August 04, 2018, 08:04:46 PM »

Good. That is what I was going to roll with but wanted to make sure you were on the same page.

I think that’s everything. I will let you get to practice.

————

Coach Barbour please.

————

Coach, I know this season has been anything but what we had hoped. On the plus side, we finally have our defense healthy with Salmon finally back.

So first off, I wanted to get your thoughts on Kennedy. Do you feel he’s earned a spot as a starter? I ask because if so, we could either slide Gaskins back to LB and leave Salmon, Totten and Kennedy up front, or try out a 4-3 to utilize him, Gaskins, Totten and Salmon all on our line.

Talon · « **Reply #2458 on:** August 05, 2018, 10:58:34 AM »

I think Morris has developed into our best defensive tackle on the roster. I think a 4-man front with Salmon and Gaskins would be a solid start, and it would let us decide which 3 LBs deserve to be on the field most, which is tricky in itself.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2459 on:** August 05, 2018, 11:17:37 AM »

That’s what I was leaning towards.

As for the 3 LB, I guess we can mix and match as the games go. I would assume Webb would be in there even though he misses a lot of tackles, and I lean towards Crane and Bailey as the other two, at least to start out.

Talon · « **Reply #2460 on:** August 05, 2018, 11:46:30 AM »

We only differ on Bailey, I think we're better off with Adams, but I can yield to your preference without problem.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2461 on:** August 05, 2018, 11:47:56 AM »

What’s your assessment on Bailey? Has he been more of a let down then we expected him to be? Or is it just that he doesn’t fit the 4-3?

Talon · « **Reply #2462 on:** August 05, 2018, 11:56:30 AM »

I just feel like Adams has out played him, Bailey is a fine kid, but Adams has more experience.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2463 on:** August 05, 2018, 12:08:49 PM »

That's a fair point. I'm all about giving ourselves the best chance to win, so if Adams gives us that, we can start with Adams alongside Webb and Crane.

This brings me to my next question...the 4-3, how do you feel about it? I know your preference has been the 3-4, but if I were to suggest the 4-3 being our main set up going forward, how would you feel about that? I know we might have to make a few adjustments to who we have on the roster to make it work long term, but I'm just getting a feeling for how comfortable you would be running it.

Talon · « **Reply #2464 on:** August 05, 2018, 04:36:55 PM »

I'm fine with any set up, I just want to have the right personnel for it.. We've stocked up the offense over the years but the D has been the red headed step child up in here, so we need to focus on our D and make it strong.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2465 on:** August 05, 2018, 05:01:10 PM »

That is a fair point and is where I have stumbled as the GM. My focus this offseason will be on he defense, I can assure you of that. For now, perhaps we give the 4-3 front a shot and see if that changes our fortunes this year.

Beyond this year, well I’m hopeful we can bring you back so that we can continue to build this defense together. But I do understand if you’d rather wait before hammering anything in.

Talon · « **Reply #2466 on:** August 05, 2018, 08:55:14 PM »

I like it here, if your wanting me back, I'm definitely open to talking contract extension.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2467 on:** August 05, 2018, 09:34:21 PM »

And we love having you here. So let’s talk.

How would a 3 year extension worth 7.5 million sound, starting next season.

Talon · « **Reply #2468 on:** August 06, 2018, 01:42:04 AM »

You've got a deal.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2469 on:** August 06, 2018, 10:53:50 AM »

Excellent. Glad we could get a deal worked out, coach. With that behind us, over the next little while we will look at how to make our defense better but for now, let’s roll with the 4-3 front against Seattle and see what happens.

I will let you get to practice.

————

Coach Wright please.

————

Coach, I just wanted to take a moment to touch base with you. We are going to go back to the Balanced offense that we ran against Vegas. That seemed to be the last time we had some good success on offense. You on board with that?

Talon · « **Reply #2470 on:** August 06, 2018, 02:28:24 PM »

If that's where you want to go, then I'm on board boss.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2471 on:** August 06, 2018, 04:09:14 PM »

Unless you have another suggestion it is. Seattle seems pretty even against both, and with the way our team has been playing, we haven’t exactly had luck with anything lately, especially trying to go heavy one way or another.

Talon · « **Reply #2472 on:** August 06, 2018, 09:17:17 PM »

You're right, we've definitely struggled.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2473 on:** August 06, 2018, 09:48:04 PM »

We have. But I feel like we are better then what we’ve shown. So hopefully we can get some strong performances this week and string some wins together and make a run.

Let me ask coach, how aggressive are we on offense?

Talon · « **Reply #2474 on:** August 06, 2018, 09:52:35 PM »

As aggressive as possible, we run the fastest tempo in the league, we attack with the highest aggression possible.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2475 on:** August 06, 2018, 10:41:49 PM »

Sounds good.

Thanks for your time coach. I will let you get back to practice.

————

Ashley, can you send this down to the coaches?

————

Tempo: Very Fast
Rotation: Mostly Starters
Strategy Changes:
Run/Pass Ratio - Balanced
4-3 Defense (as discussed with coach Barbour)

Depth Chart Changes:
WR1 - Clint Dickey, WR2 - Eddie Stands, WR3 - Terrell Pond, WR4 - Ed Wagner

RDE - George Gaskins
RDT - Glenn Totten
LDT - Morris Kennedy
LDE - Clayton Salmon
Starting LBs - Jason Webb, DeMarcus Crane, Greg Adams (lined up as coaches see fit)

Everything else is Coaches decision.

Lock In

GM Gates · « **Reply #2476 on:** August 20, 2018, 12:34:52 PM »

1. Talk us through your Week 14 Game, What did you like, what didn't you like?

That was a win we needed and a win we fought hard for. I know Seattle has been on a slide but it’s still impressive to shut out a team in the second half. Granted we got shut out too, but we had the lead so holding them down was more important. And it’s not like we didn’t try, Seattle’s defence was just ready.

I loved the game Jeremy Martin had. He’s been eager to bust out and he did just that this week. He really helped us move the chains and keep drives going. Our defence really stood out, only letting in that one touchdown. Guys like Webb, Upton, Crane, Lightner...they all stepped up. We changed things up this week and they seemed to work. Now we just have to make sure we keep things going this week so we can keep our hopes alive.

2. Talk about anything interesting you around the league...

Right now, my sole focus is on this team and getting into the playoffs so of course I have seen the race and how tight it is. We are right there in the thick of it so these final four games will be pivotal.

3. Talk about your game this upcoming week, what do you need to do to win?

This week we take on division leading St. Louis. Had you asked me at the start of the year who would be leading our division, it wouldn’t be them. But they have put up a good year on the back of a solid defence. Last time we played them we barely squeaked by, and we will have to play great, flawless football to do so again. But with what I saw last week, I think we can do that. Hell, I know we can do that. If we play like we did against Seattle we will come away with the win against St. Louis.

Talon · « **Reply #2477 on:** August 26, 2018, 03:21:24 PM »

Big win, now we need to piggy back off of it.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2478 on:** August 26, 2018, 04:23:19 PM »

We definitely do. The team seemed to take to our defensive shift as well which is always good.

I plan to leave things as is, unless you have a suggestion. Sucks to be down Ashworth but hopefully Swift can give us decent play.

Talon · « **Reply #2479 on:** August 27, 2018, 03:00:28 PM »

No suggestions here.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2480 on:** August 27, 2018, 03:50:49 PM »

Excellent. Then I won’t take too much more of your time.

One thing I did want to ask...no points in the second half. Was that just good defense by both teams or poor execution by both teams?

Talon · « **Reply #2481 on:** August 27, 2018, 03:58:41 PM »

Mainly good defense, and a missed SEA field Goal in the 4th quarter.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2482 on:** August 27, 2018, 07:37:31 PM »

That’s good to hear.

Alright coach I will let you get back to practice.

————

Ashley, can I speak with Clayton Salmon.

————

Clayton, are you a sight for sore eyes. Back in the nick of time and ready for our march back to the playoffs. How are you feeling now that you’re back out there on the field?

Talon · « **Reply #2483 on:** August 28, 2018, 11:50:50 AM »

Still knocking that rust off, but it feels good to be back.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2484 on:** August 28, 2018, 07:11:25 PM »

It's great to have you back out there.

I won't keep you much more, I just wanted to welcome you back. I'll let you get back to practice.

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Ashley, can you gather the coaches.

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Gentlemen, nothing much more for us to go over this week. Let's go out there and win. Let's go out there and show the world just what we are capable of.

Tempo: Very Fast
Rotation: Mostly Starters
Depth Chart/Strategy Changes:
No changes from last week.

Lock In

GM Gates · « **Reply #2485 on:** September 04, 2018, 10:09:11 PM »

1. Who was your star player this week? Who disappointed?

There were two players that I point to as being stars this week. One is Jeremy Martin. He ran for 150 yards and a score and really kept the ball moving on the ground, as he has the past few weeks. The other star would be Andrew Hernandez and his five field goals and three extra points. Being unable to find the end zone on our drives, Hernandez kept piling up the points for us. Those two really helped keep us going.

I don’t think I’d say any player was a disappointment. You can’t argue with the result, and while sure you might want to see some guys have better lines, you can’t mark it as a disappointment when you win by 30+.

2. How would you evaluate your team over the last few weeks?

This team has been playing very good football over the last few weeks. We have really brought our game each week and stepped up when we needed to. Whether it’s been through the air or on the ground we have been able to get it done. Our defence has been on point and holding our opponents out of the end zone, having only given up one touchdown in the past few weeks. Our goal isn’t complete though as we have a few more weeks to go.

3. With three games remaining, what is the plan to end the season on a high note?

Our plan is to play the same way we have been playing. As I said, we’ve been playing really good football over the past few weeks and if we keep doing so, we will get to where we need to be. That is the focus right now. Taking care of what we need to take care of, one week at a time.

4. What do you have to do to win the game this week?

We’ve got to play the same sort of game we’ve been playing when we visit Portland. They just came off beating Kansas City and they are not to be taken lightly. But with the way we have been playing, I’m sure that we will be able to come out on top. We have to move the ball well, move the chains, and keep them off the scoreboard. Easy to say, but I know this team can do it. We have done it. And we will again.

Talon · « **Reply #2486 on:** September 05, 2018, 12:18:01 AM »

Despite St. Louis losing their QBs, we did our part to win, and that is something we have to continue to do.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2487 on:** September 05, 2018, 06:18:56 AM »

We definitely do coach. It’s that point where we have to win no matter what happens. Holding them out of the end zone was excellent, too. We played well on both sides of the ball.

Portland is next. They beat us earlier and laid a beating on Kansas City last week. If we play the way we have been playing, I think we will be just fine. Obviously I’m not going to mess with anything strategy wise.

I don’t think there’s anything to be overly worried about. Agree?

Talon · « **Reply #2488 on:** September 05, 2018, 12:01:59 PM »

I'll Agree.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2489 on:** September 05, 2018, 07:26:39 PM »

Then I don't see a reason to prolong the week. Let's get the guys ready to grab our next win.

Tempo: Very Fast
Rotation: Mostly Starters
Depth Chart/Strategy Changes:
No changes from last week.

Lock In

GM Gates · « **Reply #2490 on:** September 16, 2018, 03:10:26 PM »

1. Talk about this weeks performance from your team.

This was a big win for us to keep our playoff quest alive. We went into Portland and played some great football on both sides of the ball. We had some big plays on defense that helped us limit their offensive scoring and Jeremy Martin went beast mode in the game running for nearly 200 yards. With the injuries we had, Pruitt still managed to make the most of his throws and found Pond and Stands for scores. All in all this was the kind of game that we are so good at playing. We keep the pressure up, keep attacking when we have the ball, and make it impossible to score against us. It's what we've been doing the past few weeks.

2. Talk about your team's news this week.

Jeremy Martin. The past few weeks he has been on fire, putting the team on his back and running with it. It's great to see him doing such a good job out there and really taking charge of our quest. Every time he touches the ball, he's been making the most of it and he shredded the Brewers this past week. Chewed them up, spat them out, and scored a touchdown.

3. Talk about at least two other news stories of interest.

One that stood out to me was that the Outlaws will be moving at the end of the season. It always sucks to see a team move from one location to another, but sometimes it's needed. In Tombstone's case, with the bad luck they've had the past few season, they almost need this chance to reset themselves and get something new going. Also, Aaron Kitchen calling out his team. I don't claim to know whats going on in Tulsa, but if you're young quarterback is calling out the rest of the roster, there's likely some negative energy flowing around there.

4. What do you have to do to win the game this week?

We have to play the same way we've been playing the past few weeks. I know you're all probably tired of hearing me say that, but it's true.

We welcome Lincoln to town, a team who might still be without their top quarterback option. But we can't focus on that. We have to work hard to keep their offense from getting too many opportunities and make the most of our own. We have to take the lead and keep our foot on the gas pedal. Keep their receivers in check, play some stout defense, and make sure that we have the chance to break out. The good thing is that for the first time all season, everyone is healthy. No one is out, sitting, missing a week, everyone is ready to go. We are getting healthy at the right time, and will need all hands on deck to take this win. But it's like I said, if we play the way we have been the last few weeks, I don't see why we shouldn't come out of this game with another win.

Talon · « **Reply #2491 on:** September 16, 2018, 06:06:41 PM »

Lincoln clinches the division with a win and a St. Louis loss... let's make sure we do our part to still have a shot at the crown.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2492 on:** September 16, 2018, 06:35:24 PM »

That’s the goal, Coach. I like our chances if Bloom misses the game and they are down to their third string QB. And as I’ve said if we keep up our play, we should be able to win out. I’ve been aiming for the playoffs, but the crown would be great.

Talon · « **Reply #2493 on:** September 16, 2018, 11:39:43 PM »

We know that once we get in, we can win it all.. The division is just for the bye-week advantage.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2494 on:** September 17, 2018, 06:22:35 AM »

I agree coach. We know we have what it takes, we just have to get in. So let’s not delay. Let’s get out there and knock the Pride down a peg.

Tempo: Very Fast
Rotation: Mostly Starters
Depth Chart/Strategy Changes:
WR1 - Clint Dickey, WR2 - Ralph Brown, WR3 - Eddie Stands, WR4 - Terrell Pond, WR5 - Ed Wagner
TE1 - Eric Ashworth, TE2 - Patrick Swift

No other changes from last week.

Lock In

GM Gates · « **Reply #2495 on:** September 20, 2018, 06:33:58 AM »

1. Talk about this weeks performance from your team.

We did what we had to do, and it resulted in a big win for this team. We made the most of the opportunities that we had, and never let up. Pruitt had a great game on offence, spreading the ball around, hitting Dickey and Brown for big gains to keep the ball moving. Martin had another great game, which has been the norm for him lately. On defence, we kept the pressure up and never let them hurt us too much. We kept them in check all over the field, and holding Hodge under 100 is an impressive feat.

It was a great game and a big team win. Everyone contributed to it and that’s what we need.

2. With the playoffs coming up, what do you hope to achieve in this final week? (tailor to fit your current playoff scenario)

A win. I think we are at a point where we win and we are in, so that is what we have to do. With some help we could get the division, but right now I’m just focused on getting into the playoffs. Which I know we can do.

3. Who scares you most in the current pool of playoff contenders, who do you hope misses out on the playoffs?

As I said, I believe it’s a win and your in situation, so the only team I’m worried about right now is the one we have to beat, the Bruins. As far as the other potential playoff teams go, there is a lot of quality there. I don’t think there’s any one team I hope misses.

4. What do you need to do to win this next game?

The same thing we have been doing. The Bruins have been a thorn at times for us, but if we capitalize on our opportunities, and keep the pressure up on both offence and defence, we will come away with the win. We keep Pruitt upright and give him time, let Martin do his thing and contain the Bruins offence and we are looking at a win for sure.

Talon · « **Reply #2496 on:** September 20, 2018, 01:32:45 PM »

From 5 straight losses to 4 straight wins. Lets close this season out and start our chase for a league-first Three-peat.

GM Gates · « **Reply #2497 on:** September 20, 2018, 02:21:33 PM »

It’s been a great turnaround, and you and your staff are a big reason for it. I don’t see a need to change anything so let’s go out there and close the season out strong with a win.

No changes from last week.

Lock In

GM Gates · « **Reply #2498 on:** September 22, 2018, 07:33:21 AM »

S10 WEEK 18 - PLAYOFF

1. With the playoffs starting, what is your number one priority as the GM?

Currently, the number one priority is to help guide the team through the playoffs. We have been here before and a lot of the guys on this team know what it takes to win, but I still have to make sure they are ready for everything that will come their way.

2. Who was your regular season MVP for the league, and also on your own team?

Having seen what he can do first hand, my pick is Curt Robles. He turned things up a notch halfway through the season and ran roughshod on the league.

As for our own team, there are a few ways we can go with this one, but I think I’m going to say Jeremy Martin. He was a big part of why we won five in a row to end the year, as we started to entrust him more and feed him the ball. I don’t think there were too many weeks at the end that he didn’t top 100 yards and score a touchdown or two.

3. What is the biggest match up this week for your game ?

I think the biggest match up will be our defence against their run game of Classic and Classic Jr. when those two get going, they can cause damage. Obviously there are other factors, but if we limit those two, we have a better chance at the win.

4. What will it take to advance to the next round of the playoffs?

If we play like we have the last part of the season, we will win. We have been on a roll and I don’t see that stopping. We are healthy, we know what it takes to be here, and now we have to execute. Limiting their offence and making the most of our opportunities is job number one, as it has been every game during our streak. If we can get our offence cooking early, I see us in the next round.

Talon · « **Reply #2499 on:** September 22, 2018, 11:39:50 AM »

We clawed back into contention.. now its time to defend the crown. It's going to be a different path, but its one we can finish.