2061 Dallas Birddogs Season
 (7-7) Ultimini XLIV | |
| Regular Season | |
|---|---|
| Start date | 02 October, 2061 |
| End date | 26 February, 2062 |
| Conference Champions | |
| DSFL North Champions | Minnesota Grey Ducks |
| DSFL South Champions | Tijuana Luchadores |
| Playoffs | |
| Ultimini Champions | Dallas Birddogs |
The 2061 (S46) season is the Dallas Birddogs 26th season in the Developmental Simulation Football League, and their first under GMs Waldo and Crazytomato.
Contents
Preseason
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result | Record | Venue | Recap |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2061-09-01 | at Norfolk Seawolves | L 28–41 | 0-1 | Norfolksdale Norfolkdome | Recap |
| 2 | 2061-09-08 | at Bondi Beach Buccaneers | W 23–20 | 1–1 | Emu War Memorial Stadium | Recap |
| 3 | 2061-09-15 | vs Tijuana Luchadores | W 14–33 | 2–1 | The Doghouse | Recap |
| 4 | 2061-09-22 | at Portland Pythons | W 23–24 | 3–1 | The Doghouse | Recap |
2061 Season
Standings
| 2061 (S46) SFC South standings | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W | L | T | PCT | PF | PA | Home | Road | Conf | Div | Str | |
| (1) Tijuana Luchadores | 10 | 4 | 0 | .714 | 391 | 315 | 4-3-0 | 6-1-0 | 5-1-0 | 5-1-0 | W1 |
| (2) Dallas Birddogs | 7 | 7 | 0 | .500 | 407 | 378 | 3-4-0 | 4-3-0 | 2-4-0 | 2-4-0 | L1 |
| (3) Bondi Beach Buccaneers | 6 | 8 | 0 | .429 | 366 | 411 | 4-3-0 | 2-5-0 | 3-3-0 | 3-3-0 | L2 |
| (4) Norfolk Seawolves | 5 | 9 | 0 | .357 | 398 | 428 | 3-4-0 | 2-5-0 | 2-4-0 | 2-4-0 | W1 |
NOTE: The highest seed in the SFC South (TIJ) has home-field advantage in the SFC Championship Game.
| 2061 (S46) SFC North standings | |||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W | L | T | PCT | PF | PA | Home | Road | Conf | Div | Str | |
| (1) Minnesota Grey Ducks | 10 | 4 | 0 | .714 | 352 | 273 | 4-3-0 | 6-1-0 | 4-2-0 | 4-2-0 | W5 |
| (2) London Royals | 8 | 6 | 0 | .571 | 365 | 343 | 3-4-0 | 5-2-0 | 4-2-0 | 4-2-0 | L1 |
| (3) Kansas City Coyotes | 7 | 7 | 0 | .500 | 359 | 344 | 5-2-0 | 2-5-0 | 2-4-0 | 2-4-0 | L1 |
| (4) Portland Pythons | 3 | 11 | 0 | .214 | 262 | 408 | 2-5-0 | 1-6-0 | 2-4-0 | 2-4-0 | W1 |
NOTE: The highest seed in the SFC North (MIN) has home-field advantage in the NFC Championship Game.
Postseason
The 2061 DSFL playoffs consist of two rounds; with two conference championships – contested by the winners and the second placed team from each conference. The winners of the conference championship games then played in Ultimini XLIV.
| Conference Finals | Ultimini XLIV | ||||||
| London Royals | 33 | ||||||
| Minnesota Grey Ducks | 27 | ||||||
| Dallas Birddogs | 41 | ||||||
| London Royals | 31 | ||||||
| Dallas Birddogs | 23 | ||||||
| Tijuana Luchadores | 20 | ||||||
Statistical Leaders
| Individual | ||
|---|---|---|
| Passing yards | Chappy McChapperson | 4,060* |
| Passing touchdowns | Chappy McChapperson | 28 |
| Rushing Yards | Reginald Hammerfall | 973 |
| Rushing Touchdowns | Reginald Hammerfall | 13* |
| Receiving yards | Seventh Rounder | 1,434 |
| Receiving Touchdowns | Lane Frost III | 11 |
| Tackles | Huge Yakman | 96 |
| Interceptions | Dewey Greenbeans | 7* |
| Sacks | GoTo http://imnegs.net/ | 8 |
(*) League Leader
Gameweek 1
Dallas Birddogs v Norfolk Seawolves - 37-31 (W)
In the opener of the 2061 DSFL season, the Dallas Birddogs emerged victorious over the Norfolk Seawolves with a final score of 37-31.
The scoring kicked off with rookie Reginald Hammerfall’s, powerful 1-yard run to secure the first touchdown of the match for the Birddogs on their first possession. Birddogs' rookie Dee Fernandez then hauled in an 8-yard pass from quarterback Chappy Mcchapperson for the Birddogs' to score on back-to-back possessions.
With a commanding 17-0 lead going into the second quarter, the Birddogs seemed to be in control. However, the Seawolves fought back, as Benny Hanna connected with rookie quarterback Elijah Dyson for a 17-yard touchdown pass, putting the Seawolves on the scoreboard. The Birddogs swiftly responded, with Lane Frost catching a 75 yard touchdown to extend their lead to 24-7. The Seawolves’ Depth Charge made an important interception shortly after leading to a JJ What catch for a touchdown, narrowing the deficit. Nonetheless, the Birddogs maintained their momentum, securing a field goal before halftime, leading 27-14.
As the game progressed into the third quarter, Elijah Dyson demonstrated his versatility, adding a rushing touchdown to his repertoire, keeping the Seawolves' hopes alive. However, the Birddogs stuck to the gameplan and added another field goal early in the fourth quarter to bolster their lead.
Reginald Hammerfall powered through the Seawolves' defense once again, scoring his second touchdown with a 4-yard run, to further solidify the Birddogs' lead.
With time ticking away, the Seawolves mounted a late comeback effort, with Matthew McDairmid Jr. converting a crucial 45-yard field goal, followed by another determined 1-yard touchdown catch by Benny Hanna . However, their efforts fell short as the final whistle blew, with the Birddogs emerging victorious with a final score of 37-31.
Despite the Seawolves earning more first downs (22 to 14), the Birddogs managed to edge ahead in total yards (390 to 399). Chappy McChapperson and Elijah Dyson delivered commendable performances, with McChapperson amassing 339 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception, while Dyson racked up 219 passing yards and 3 touchdowns without an interception, displaying his efficiency as a rookie quarterback.
Ultimately, the Dallas Birddogs' resilient performance and timely plays secured them a hard-fought victory in the season opener, setting the stage for an exciting DSFL campaign ahead.
Gameweek 2
Portland Pythons v Dallas Birddogs - 17-30 (W)
In a hard-fought battle during the second game of the 2061 DSFL season, the Dallas Birddogs emerged victorious over the Portland Pythons with a final score of 30-17, showcasing their resilience and ability to capitalise on key opportunities.
The Birddogs wasted no time setting the tone, opening the scoring in the first half with a well-executed field goal. However, the Pythons quickly answered back, as rookie sensation Brad Woof showcased his talent, hauling in a 28-yard pass from Billy Van Goff to give Portland a brief lead.
Penalties plagued both sides, disrupting the flow of the game and preventing either team from gaining significant momentum. Despite field goals from both teams, the Pythons found themselves in a prime position to shift the momentum decisively in their favour before halftime, following an interception thrown by Birddogs' quarterback McChapperson. However, ill-discipline and penalties hindered the Pythons' drive, allowing the Birddogs to maintain their lead heading into halftime.
The second half saw the Birddogs capitalize on turnovers, with Van Goff throwing a tipped interception to Birddogs' Nietzsche, leading to a 9-yard receiving touchdown for Birddogs' rookie Turnbull. The Pythons' struggles with discipline continued, hampering their ability to gain momentum and allowing the Birddogs to maintain control of the game.
Despite a scrappy back-and-forth exchange of possessions, the Birddogs managed to extend their lead with two more field goals before a spectacular 38-yard catch by L. Frost III further solidified their advantage. The Pythons' were suddenly unable to protect their quarterback in the fourth quarter, as Van Goff faced relentless pressure, succumbing to three consecutive sacks from rookie Sewage Joe Fantringham.
With the game all but decided, Reginald Hammerfall put the finishing touches on the victory with a rushing touchdown for the Birddogs. A late consolation touchdown by the Pythons' Tyler Higbee II had little impact on the outcome as the clock wound down.
Despite the Pythons recording more first downs (19 to 15) and slightly more total yards offense (382 to 363), penalties and missed opportunities proved costly. Van Goff impressed with 275 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception, while McChapperson showcased his talent with 300 passing yards, 2 touchdowns, and 1 interception.
In the end, the Dallas Birddogs' ability to capitalise on turnovers and maintain composure under pressure secured them a well-deserved victory, further solidifying their position as contenders in the 2061 DSFL season and taking them to 2-0.
Gameweek 3
Dallas Birddogs v Bondi Beach Buccaneers 20-43 (L)
In a lopsided matchup during gameweek 3 of the 2061 DSFL season, the Dallas Birddogs found themselves overwhelmed by the Bondi Beach Buccaneers both in the air and on the ground, suffering a resounding defeat with a final score of 20-43.
The Buccaneers wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Wynn Jenkins kicking a field goal early in the game. As the second quarter commenced, the Buccaneers' offense ignited, as de la Rosa hauled in a 29-yard pass from quarterback Bugs for the first touchdown of the game, putting Bondi Beach in control.
Scheming away from the ground game, the Birddogs heavily relied on their passing attack, with Lane Frost III's remarkable 31-yard touchdown reception from McChapperson serving as their sole standout play in the first half. Despite managing a field goal just before halftime, the Birddogs' momentum was stifled by a series of penalties, making it challenging to mount a comeback.
The Buccaneers continued to extend their lead in the second half, with a 30-yard passing touchdown to Bernardrick further solidifying their advantage. Though McChapperson connected with Turnbull for a 3-yard lob which provided a glimmer of hope for the Birddogs, the Buccaneers swiftly responded with a field goal and capitalised on a poor pass from McChapperson with an interception which lead to a gut punch, 12-yard rushing touchdown from Freduci.
The Birddogs' high-risk strategy, heavily reliant on the passing game, proved costly as they found themselves constantly playing catch-up against a dominant Buccaneers team. Despite exchanging field goals in the fourth quarter, the Buccaneers delivered the final blow with a 3-yard rushing touchdown from Christopher Robin, sealing their victory in commanding fashion.
The Birddogs struggled to generate momentum, managing only 13 first downs compared to the Buccaneers' 21 and converting a mere 3 of 10 third-down attempts. With total yards heavily in favour of the Buccaneers (501 to 327), the Birddogs' reluctance to utilise their rushing game proved detrimental, leaving them vulnerable to the Buccaneers' relentless offensive onslaught.
As the Birddogs reflect on this defeat, they must address their reliance on the passing game and work to establish a more balanced offensive approach to avoid finding themselves in similar precarious situations in future matchups.
Gameweek 4
Dallas Birddogs v Kansas City Coyotes - 19-23 (L)
In a closely contested matchup during the latest clash of the 2061 DSFL season, the Dallas Birddogs fell short against the Kansas City Coyotes, suffering a narrow defeat with a final score of 19-23.
The Birddogs started off on the right foot, opening the scoring with a field goal after a fumble recovery by Dewey Greenbeans from the Coyotes' opening drive. The Birddogs' defense stood strong, forcing a sack and a missed field goal on the Coyotes' subsequent possession, before adding another field goal of their own.
However, the Coyotes' offense found its rhythm, with Leonard McCoy hauling in a 6-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Lenard McRobinson, capitalizing on chunky quarterback play. Despite the Coyotes adding another field goal before halftime, the Birddogs responded with a 1-yard rushing touchdown run from Hammerfall, marking his fourth touchdown of the season. The Birddogs managed to maintain a slim lead, heading into halftime with a score of 16-10.
As the game progressed into the second half, the Birddogs continued to rely heavily on their passing game, with McChapperson leading the charge. The defense stepped up, with Roman Furchi making a crucial interception on the Coyotes' third down to give the Birddogs promising field position. However, the Birddogs were unable to capitalize on the opportunity, settling for another field goal.
The Coyotes answered back with a field goal of their own before the end of the third quarter and early in the fourth, seizing all momentum. Two consecutive three-and-out possessions for the Birddogs, coupled with a 26-yard touchdown pass from McRobinson, solidified the Coyotes' control of the game, ultimately securing their victory.
The Birddogs' rushing game continued to struggle, with Hammerfall receiving limited carries and the team totaling just 54 rushing yards. Additionally, the Birddogs were outpaced in first downs (8 to 18) and outmatched in total yards (231 to 439) by the Coyotes.
McChapperson endured his toughest game of the season, with a completion rate of only 46.7%, 177 passing yards, 0 touchdowns, and a rating of 65.6. However, standout performances from players like L. Frost III, who posted impressive yardage stats, and defensive stalwart S. Fantringham, who leads the league in sacks, offered some positive highlights for the Birddogs.
The Birddogs are struggling with reliance on the passing game and may look to strive for greater balance on offense.
Gameweek 5
Minnesota Grey Ducks v Dallas Birddogs - 24-20 (L)
In a closely contested battle, the Dallas Birddogs were narrowly defeated by the Minnesota Grey Ducks with a final score of 20-24, in a game that kept fans on the edge of their seats until the very end.
The Birddogs got off to a strong start, opening the scoring with a field goal in the first quarter. They continued their momentum into the second quarter, with Reginald Hammerfall punching in a 7-yard rushing touchdown to extend their lead.
However, the Grey Ducks quickly responded, as running back Willie Swaggert found the end zone with a 2-yard rushing touchdown, keeping the game tight. Both teams traded field goals before halftime, with the Birddogs maintaining a narrow lead of 13-10 heading into the break.
As the third quarter unfolded, Swaggert struck again for the Grey Ducks, this time with a crucial touchdown, shifting the momentum in favour of Minnesota. The Birddogs fought back fiercely, with Cush Jones scoring a touchdown with just over three minutes left on the clock, reclaiming the lead and setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
But the effervescent Swaggert proved to be the difference-maker for the Grey Ducks, as he connected with Tuna TurnDaBallOva for a game-shattering 34-yard touchdown pass late in the fourth quarter, sealing the victory for Minnesota in dramatic fashion.
Despite a valiant effort from the Birddogs they ultimately fell short against a determined Grey Ducks team led by Swaggert's standout performance.
Gameweek 6
Tijuana Luchadores v Dallas Birddogs - 24-23 (L)
In a thrilling and closely contested matchup, the Dallas Birddogs were narrowly edged out by their perennial nemesis the Tijuana Luchadores with a heart-wrenching final score of 23-24.
The game began with a slow start, characterised by penalties and defensive battles in the first quarter, before the Luchadores' receiver A. Benn broke the deadlock with a 13-yard touchdown reception, setting the tone for a tense encounter. Despite a series of punts by the Birddogs, the Luchadores took an early lead.
The Birddogs responded strongly in the second quarter, putting together a solid drive to march downfield for a field goal, only for Tijuana to answer with one of their own. Quarterback McChapperson led another impressive drive to close out the half with a field goal, keeping the Birddogs within striking distance at 10-6.
As the third quarter unfolded, the Birddogs seized the lead with McChapperson connecting with S. Rounder for a 29-yard touchdown bomb, igniting hope among the Dallas faithful. However, Tijuana's rushing attack gained momentum though the Birddogs' defense managed a crucial pass breakup on third down and forced a missed field goal by C. Gold.
Undeterred, the Birddogs continued to build offensive momentum, culminating in a touchdown pass from McChapperson to D. Fernandez from 5 yards out. Yet, the Luchadores retaliated swiftly, with Corey Trevor scoring a 3-yard touchdown after a march downfield.
With the game on the line, the Birddogs found themselves trailing, unable to convert on an important set of downs, leading to a punt straight back to the Luchadores. Despite Dewey Greenbeans' vital interception on the Luchadores' ensuing possession, the Birddogs could only manage a field goal, bringing the game to within a point.
The Birddogs' defense, led by Fantringham and Yakman, did their job to give the Birddogs a chance with just 1:15 remaining. In a position to win, the Birddogs lined up for a 45-yard field goal attempt from the reliable A. Bud. However, the attempt fell short, leaving the Birddogs heartbroken as they fell to the Luchadores by the narrowest of margins, 23-24.
Gameweek 7
Dallas Birddogs v London Royals - 47-30 (W)
The Dallas Birddogs soared to a commanding victory over the London Royals to break their 4 games skid, by securing a resounding win 47-30, in a game filled with thrilling plays and standout performances.
The game kicked off with Royals wide receiver, Chopper Donquixote, making an impressive 20-yard reception from quarterback Scudl Mcdiddl to open the scoring for the Royals. However, the Birddogs quickly responded with a field goal, setting the stage for a high-scoring affair.
The momentum swung decisively in favour of the Birddogs when OhioRizzler forced and recovered a fumble from L. Wilson, providing Dallas with excellent field position. Quarterback McChapperson capitalised on this opportunity with a 28-yard pass to Seventh Rounder, propelling the Birddogs into the lead.
The Birddogs' defense continued to shine, with D. Greenbeans intercepting a pass on the Royals' next possession, further solidifying Dallas' control of the game. Reginald Hammerfall then punched in another touchdown from 5 yards out, extending the Birddogs' lead and asserting their dominance.
As the second quarter unfolded, Hammerfall continued to showcase his prowess, scoring his league-leading 8th rushing touchdown of the year, courtesy of an excellent drive orchestrated by McChapperson. However, the Royals mounted a comeback, with H. Tez making a 59-yard reception, leading to a 2-yard passing touchdown to Donquixote.
Yet, Seventh Rounder quickly turned the tide with a spectacular highlight reel 103-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, further extending the Birddogs' lead and demoralising the Royals. The Birddogs' defense continued to impress, as Greenbeans intercepted two more passes, further thwarting London's offensive efforts.
Despite some missed opportunities on offense, including two unsuccessful field goal attempts, the Birddogs remained in control, adding a field goal in the third quarter to maintain their lead. However, the Royals continued to fight back, with Aaron Ford scoring a touchdown from a 3-yard pass.
In a back-and-forth fourth quarter, both teams traded field goals before the Royals found the end zone again with a 7-yard touchdown pass to Tez. However, the Birddogs sealed the victory with a field goal from 29 yards out, capping off a dominant performance and securing the win.
With stellar plays on both sides of the ball, including standout performances from Hammerfall, McChapperson, Seventh Rounder and Greenbeans, the Birddogs showcased their strength which they will hope to capitalise on to shift the momentum in the second half of their season.
Gameweek 8
London Royals v Dallas Birddogs - 10-42 (W)
In a dominant display, the Dallas Birddogs cruised to a commanding victory over the London Royals with a final score of 42-10, showcasing their prowess on both sides of the ball.
The game started with a bang for the Birddogs, as Dee Fernandez opened the scoring on the opening drive with a 4-yard touchdown reception from quarterback McChapperson. The Royals' opening possession resulted in a safety after a tackle for an 11-yard loss by Huge Yakman, setting the tone for the Birddogs' defensive dominance.
Both teams exchanged field goals before the end of the first quarter, but it was the Birddogs who continued to assert their dominance in the second quarter. Cush Jones punched in a one-yard touchdown, extending the Birddogs' lead with Reginald Hammerfall doing the same to close out the half and putting the Birddogs firmly in control of the game.
The Royals struggled to muster any offense throughout the game, facing relentless pressure from the Birddogs' defense. The second half saw the Birddogs' defense continue to shine, with Greenbeans forcing and recovering another fumble early in the third quarter, setting up another scoring opportunity for the Birddogs.
Fernandez added another touchdown reception to his tally (4 on the season), further widening the gap between the two teams. In the fourth quarter, Frost contributed with an excellent 28-yard touchdown reception, sealing the Birddogs' victory in emphatic fashion.
Despite the comfortable lead, the Birddogs maintained their focus and composure, never letting up on their intensity. Although the Royals managed a rushing touchdown consolation score late in the game, it was too little, too late to mount a comeback against the dominant Birddogs.
With 22 first downs compared to the Royals' 8, and a stifling defensive performance that limited the Royals to just 16 yards rushing, the Birddogs showcased their superiority on both offense and defense. Interestingly, the Birddogs' scoring was evenly spread across various players, highlighting the depth and versatility of their roster.
McChapperson once again delivered a solid performance, posting impressive stats with 21 completions on 33 attempts, 253 passing yards, 3 touchdowns, and a stellar passer rating of 117.4, guiding the Birddogs to a crucial victory as they moved to a 4-4 record for the season.
Gameweek 9
Dallas Birddogs v Tijuana Luchadores - 31-12 (W)
In a crucial matchup that saw the Dallas Birddogs face off against the Tijuana Luchadores, the Birddogs emerged victorious with a convincing 31-12 win, improving their season record to 5-4 and solidifying their position as contenders in the DSFL.
The game began with the Luchadores drawing first blood, as Cameron Gold kicked a field goal in the first quarter. However, the Birddogs swiftly responded with an explosive 84-yard passing touchdown from quarterback McChapperson to Seventh Rounder, setting the tone for the rest of the game.
In the second quarter, the Birddogs continued their offensive onslaught, with Hammerfall scoring a 13-yard rushing touchdown. The Luchadores managed to keep pace with a 14-yard pass from O'Duck to Andre Benn, the league's top touchdown scorer, but a missed extra point by Gold kept them trailing. The Birddogs extended their lead with a field goal, heading into halftime with a 17-9 advantage.
The momentum swung decisively in favour of the Birddogs in the second half, as D. Greenbeans made a standout interception and returned it 27 yards for a touchdown, further solidifying the Birddogs' lead. This deflated the Luchadores, who struggled to generate meaningful offense for the remainder of the game, managing only another field goal.
Hammerfall continued to showcase his dominance, scoring his second touchdown of the game with a 1-yard rush, bringing his season total to a league-leading 11 touchdowns. With standout performances across the board, including Greenbeans' league-leading interceptions, the Birddogs displayed their depth and talent on both sides of the ball.
Despite being outgained in total offense, the Birddogs' ability to capitalise on key opportunities and limit the Luchadores' scoring proved decisive. McChapperson played a clean and efficient game, leading the offense with precision and earning a stellar passer rating of 106.9.
With this important win, the Birddogs have shown that they are hitting their stride at a crucial point in the season, positioning themselves as formidable contenders as they continue their march forward in the DSFL.
Gameweek 10
Dallas Birddogs v Minnesota Grey Ducks - 7-34 (L)
On a disappointing night, the Dallas Birddogs suffered a tough 7-34 defeat at the hands of the Minnesota Grey Ducks, enduring a torrid night characterised by struggles on both sides of the ball.
The Birddogs' offense struggled to find its rhythm, managing just 34 yards rushing and a modest 252 yards passing in what can only be described as an anaemic performance. The Birddogs punted on 10 out of their 14 possessions. Star player McChapperson had their lowest QBR of the year, while Hammerfall saw a season-low in rush attempts and an average of only 2.8, further hampering the Birddogs' offensive output.
Despite the overall struggles, there were a few bright spots for the Birddogs. Dependable receivers like Seventh Rounder, who amassed 97 yards, and Lane Frost III, who contributed 83 yards and a touchdown, showcased their skills and determination to keep the team competitive. Additionally, Huge Yakman made a mammoth effort, recording 11 tackles on the night, to highlight the Birddogs' resilience on defense.
However, penalties proved to be a significant obstacle for the Birddogs, as they were penalised nine times throughout the game, disrupting any momentum they tried to build on both offense and defense. In contrast, the Grey Ducks executed with clinical precision and discipline, committing zero penalties and capitalising on the Birddogs' mistakes.
Despite the challenging night, the Birddogs remain fortunate that other results went their way, allowing them to maintain a one-game lead in the conference standings over the Buccaneers and Seawolves. As they look to bounce back from this setback, the Birddogs will undoubtedly be eager to put this disappointing performance behind them and regroup for the run in.
Gameweek 11
Kansas City Coyotes v Dallas Birddogs - 7-17 (W)
In a hard-fought battle at The Dog House, the Dallas Birddogs emerged victorious with a gritty 17-7 win over the Kansas City Coyotes in a game plagued by penalties.
The contest got off to a tense start, with both teams committing numerous penalties that disrupted the flow of play. Despite the challenges, the Birddogs managed to strike first with Air Bud's field goal in the first quarter, giving them an early lead.
However, the Coyotes quickly responded with a big play, as Tim Riggins caught a 64-yard pass for a touchdown from quarterback Russell Jimmies, propelling the Coyotes ahead 7-3. But that would be the extent of the Coyotes' offensive success, as the Birddogs' defense tightened up, shutting down their opponents for the remainder of the game.
Before the half, Seventh Rounder came up clutch for the Birddogs with a 1-yard receiving touchdown, swinging the momentum back in favour of the home team as they headed into halftime with a narrow lead.
In the fourth quarter, the Birddogs sealed the deal with another touchdown, this time courtesy of Raffi Turnbull, extending their lead and solidifying their grip on the game.
While the Coyotes racked up an impressive 421 total yards compared to the Birddogs' 259, it was the Birddogs' defense that ultimately made the difference. Huge Yakman led the defensive effort with 10 tackles and a sack, while Dewey Greenbeans continued his interception streak with another pick, bolstering the Birddogs' defensive performance.
Offensively, quarterback McChapperson delivered a solid performance, throwing for 146 yards and two touchdowns with no interceptions, while Reginald Hammerfall led the charge in yardage with 101 all-purpose yards.
Gameweek 12
Bondi Beach Buccaneers v Dallas Birddogs - 41-34 (L)
In a crucial matchup with significant playoff implications, the Dallas Birddogs suffered a heartbreaking 41-34 loss to the Bondi Beach Buccaneers in a game marked by momentum swings and dramatic twists.
The Buccaneers struck first with a 5-yard rushing touchdown by Dru Freduci in the opening quarter, setting the tone for a high-stakes battle. However, the Birddogs swiftly responded, with Dee Fernandez hauling in a 23-yard touchdown reception to even the score. Yet, Freduci struck again with a 1-yard run to close out the quarter with the Buccaneers in the lead.
The second quarter was marred by penalties on both sides, but the Birddogs managed to level the score once more with a 1-yard rushing touchdown by Reginald Hammerfall. However, just before halftime, the Buccaneers seized momentum with a stunning 63-yard receiving touchdown by Meo Stickyhands-McGee, heading into the break with a narrow lead.
The Buccaneers capitalized on a Fernandez fumble early in the second half, converting it into a field goal to extend their lead. Despite penalties disrupting play, the Buccaneers added another field goal before the end of the quarter.
In the fourth quarter, the Buccaneers appeared to pull away with a 10-yard receiving touchdown by María Teresa de la Rosa, but the Birddogs refused to back down. Seventh Rounder's 38-yard touchdown and a pivotal punt return by Lane Frost III injected new life into the Birddogs' offense. The Birddogs quickly rallied, notching a field goal before a spectacular 79-yard receiving touchdown by Hammerfall brought them within striking distance.
With the game on the line, the Birddogs managed to tie the score with another field goal following another strong punt return by Lane Frost III. However, in a heart-wrenching turn of events, with just 12 seconds left on the clock, McChapperson's pass intended for Hammerfall was intercepted by Matt Wilkins of the Buccaneers, who returned it for the game-winning touchdown, sealing a crucial victory for the Buccaneers and severely denting the Birddogs' playoff hopes.
Gameweek 13
Dallas Birddogs v Portland Pythons - 42-38 (W)
In an electrifying matchup at The Snake Pit, the Dallas Birddogs secured a thrilling 42-38 victory over the Portland Pythons, keeping their playoff hopes alive in a high-scoring affair.
The Birddogs wasted no time asserting their dominance, with Cush Jones igniting the scoreboard early followed by Lane Frost III's touchdown reception and Air Bud's successful field goal, propelling the Birddogs to a commanding 21-0 lead.
However, the Pythons fought back in the second quarter, with a Cameron Oswald-Newton field goal and a Gucci Gurley rushing touchdown narrowing the gap. Yet, Seventh Rounder's spectacular 80-yard reception from McChapperson helped the Birddogs maintain their lead heading into halftime.
The Pythons came out firing in the third quarter, as Jonathan Irons and Gurley's touchdowns propelled them into the lead, putting immense pressure on the Birddogs' playoff aspirations.
With the game on the line, Raffi Turnbull delivered a clutch 30-yard touchdown reception from Mcchapperson, followed by a successful two-point conversion, swinging the momentum back in the Birddogs' favour.
The Pythons faltered on their next possession, surrendering the ball to the Birddogs with just over four minutes remaining. Mcchapperson showcased his prowess once again, connecting with Lane Frost III for a pivotal 59-yard touchdown, securing the Birddogs' lead.
With the game hanging in the balance, the Birddogs' defense rose to the occasion, with Greenbeans making a crucial pass breakup to seal the victory and keep their playoff dreams alive.
Mcchapperson delivered a stellar performance, amassing an impressive 428 yards and throwing six touchdowns, while Seventh Rounder and Lane Frost III emerged as standout playmakers, each tallying over 140 yards receiving. Greenbeans extended his remarkable interception streak, contributing to the Birddogs' crucial win in their pursuit of playoff glory.
In the final game of the year, the Birddogs (7-6) are win and in as they host the Norfolk Seawolves (4-9) whilst the Bondi Beach Buccaneers (6-7) travel to the formidable El Santo Coliseo in a must win match up against the Tijuana Luchadores (9-4). If the Buccaneers lose then the Birddogs make the playoffs for the fourth straight season.
Gameweek 14
Norfolk Seawolves v Dallas Birddogs
In a thrilling final game of the season, the Dallas Birddogs faced off against the Norfolk Seawolves. With their playoff spot already secured following Bondi's earlier defeat, the Birddogs looked to finish the season strong against a Seawolves team looking to make a point.
The Seawolves wasted no time making their presence felt, as quarterback Elijah Wilson unleashed a breathtaking 51-yard run to open the scoring and set the tone for a fast-paced contest. The Birddogs quickly responded with a second-quarter field goal before their own signal-caller, Chappy Mcchapperson, powered his way into the end zone with a 2-yard rushing touchdown, putting Dallas ahead momentarily.
However, the Seawolves unleashed a flurry of big plays, with JJ What connecting on a sensational 63-yard touchdown pass from Dyson to regain the lead. Mcchapperson's ill-timed interception then allowed Benny Hanna to haul in a 25-yard pass, extending Norfolk's advantage. Nevertheless, the Birddogs refused to back down, with Lane Frost III scoring just before and after halftime to keep the game within reach.
Elijah Dyson once again showcased his dual-threat ability, adding a mesmerizing 67-yard rushing touchdown to his impressive passing performance. Despite the Birddogs' efforts, including a touchdown from the league's top rushing scorer, Reginald Hammerfall, and a stellar hat-trick performance from Lane Frost, the Seawolves clawed their way back into contention.
With just over three minutes remaining, a Fig Newton rushing touchdown brought the Seawolves within striking distance. Keeping their composure, Norfolk orchestrated a crucial drive, setting up Matthew McDairmid Jr. for a game-tying 24-yard field goal, sending the contest into overtime.
In a tense overtime period, both teams battled fiercely, but it was Benny Hanna who delivered the decisive blow for the Seawolves, securing the victory and their season on a high.
Elijah Dyson earned offensive player of the game honours with a stellar performance, while GoTo http://imnegs.net/ emerged as the defensive standout with a dominant display. Despite the loss, the Birddogs look ahead to the SFC Championship game against Tijuana, determined to bounce back and pursue championship glory.
