Month: October 2017

Categories
FANTASY Uncategorized

True Fanatics week 8 Power Rankings – Sports Fanatics play Fantasy SF-30

Can anyone Challenge Texas Proud

Other than the one loss due in part to Bye week replacements, and a poor showing from key Players.  Texas Proud has appeared totally dominant this Season.  The good news is that they can be beaten.  The better news is that the cream of the League has risen to the top.  This week’s Power Rankings will reflect the sudden success of some of the higher scoring teams.

Power Rankings

1 – Texas Proud

Currently ranked 1rst overall with a 7-1 record, and 1007.23 total points for the Season.

Texas Proud is just flat out dominant.  They have star Players at each and every position. At Quarterback they have Drew Brees. At Running Back they have Kareem Hunt. At Wide Receiver they have DeAndre Hopkins, at Tight End they have Travis Kelce. Even their Defence is solid with the Broncos.  They obviously remain the team to beat.

2 – The Bottom Feeders

Currently ranked 6th overall with a 4-4 record, and 888.87 total points for the Season.

Don’t let their name fool you.  The Bottom Feeders are stacked with top tier talent.  They are the closest in roster quality to Texas Proud.  Kirk Cousins at QB, Ezekiel Elliot at RB, A.J. Green at WR, and Zach Ertz at TE is enough to match up well against anyone.  Picking the top two teams for this week’s Power Rankings was relatively easy.

3 – Raider in the North

Currently ranked 3rd overall with a 4-4 record, and 752.13 total points for the Season.

This was the first difficult position in the Rankings to figure out.  With LeSean McCoy, Tyreek Hill, and Rob Gronkowski as their star players for the majority of the Season.  Raider in the North is obviously competitive.  It was the recent addition of Jerick McKinnon that has moved them up to number 3 in the Power Rankings.  Do not underestimate this team.  They have the potential to win it all.

4 – Cobe Life

Currently ranked 5th overall with a 4-4 record, and 897.05 total points for the Season.

Why am I ranking my team fourth?  The only team that has scored more points than mine is Texas Proud.  Tom Brady, Le’Veon Bell, and Chris Thompson have kept me competitive.  Recent injuries have left me with a question mark at Wide Receiver.  Can Fitzgerald, Diggs, or Garcon return to early Season form?  At least one of them will have to if I’m to stand a chance at winning the championship.  Still the Brady and Bell combination just scares everyone.  Well everyone except Texas Proud, and The Bottom Feeders.

5 – Aegon Targaryan

Currently ranked 2nd overall with a 6-2 record, and 847.98 total points for the Season.

It’s all about their two Running Backs Todd Gurley, and Carlos Hyde.  They have simply been stellar.  Although they haven’t posted too many breakout games their Wide Receiver corps are sneaky good as well.  All it would take is just one or two of them to start playing to their potential for Aegon Targaryan to win the championship.

6 – In Dak we Trust

Currently ranked 8th overall with a 3-5 record, and 769.88 total points for the Season.

How is it that I’m rating a team with a losing record so high.  Well In Dak we Trust has Alex Smith, Mark Ingram, and Antonio Brown for starters. A fresh Doug Martin makes his team just a little stronger, and he has Christian McCaffrey as a solid backup, or flex play.  They are so stacked at Running Back that it wouldn’t surprise me if a key trade  can further improve this team before the Playoffs.

7 – Geezer Domination

Currently ranked 5th overall with a 4-4 record, and 787.03 total points for the Season.

Geezer Domination has had a very up, and down Season due to injuries, and quality acquisitions.  Deshaun Watson, and Will Fuller make for a potentially strong 1-2 punch.  Jordan Howard, and Devonta Freeman provide him with a strong duo of Running Backs.  Another strong Wide Receiver might be all this team needs to make a strong push to go deep into the playoffs.

8 – Muh Feelins

Currently ranked 11th overall with a 3-5 record, and 695.43 total points for the Season.

Another team with a losing record that still has an outside chance of getting into the playoffs.  Russell Wilson is just beginning to hit his stride, and Leonard Fournette should be ready to come back strong after a couple weeks of rest.  Muh Feelins really needs to upgrade at Wide Receiver to hope to compete.  If they can get into the playoffs there’s a slim chance that they could get David Johnson back from injury.

9 – Watch it Burn

Currently ranked 4th overall with a 4-4 record, and 700.18 total points for the Season.

The fourth overall team comes in at ninth in my Power Rankings!  Well here’s why. The team is full of good players, but not great ones.  Injuries have limited the potential success of some of their key players going forward.  Although they are relatively well balanced, their team lacks big play Fantasy potential.

10 – Justice league of America

Currently ranked 12th overall with a 3-5 record, and 771.59 total points for the Season.

Yes they are the last place team in the league but that doesn’t necessarily make them the worst.  Recent acquisitions have really bolstered their roster, and they actually have a very good group of Wide Receivers to go with Carson Wentz at Quarterback.  When you have nothing to lose, you are free to make gutsy line up calls.  A couple quick wins and Justice league of America could be right back in it.  Keep in mind that their team has actually scored more points than half the teams in the league.  Their record is not a fair representation of their potential.

11 – Breton

Currently ranked 10th overall with a 3-5 record, and 636.10 points for the Season.

Maybe the recent Ajayi trade to Philly will improve things for Breton.  Outside of Dak Prescott, and Alvin Kamara there isn’t much to be excited about on their team.  They are the lowest scoring team in the league.  The only reason they aren’t at the bottom of the Rankings is because their team is healthier than the last placed team in the Rankings.

12 – Ball Breakerz

Currently ranked 9th overall with a 3-5 record, and 700.07 total points for the Season.

Somebody has to be last, and Ball Breakerz is definitely it.  The highlight on their team is Aaron Rodgers, and well he’s basically done for the Season.  His backup Quarterback is Matt Stafford and he isn’t exactly 100% either.  His best Wide Receiver is T.Y. Hilton but without Andrew Luck feeding him the ball his ceiling is limited.  Basically anything that could go wrong for Ball Breakerz has gone wrong.

It’s far from over

The reality is that not one single team is statistically eliminated.  Everyone can still make the playoffs.  Sure there are favourites, but this is football, and anything can happen.  Make the right trade, or pick up the right Player off the waiver wire, and you could finish the Season as the Champion.

Remember if you would like to be considered for prize support.  You need to respond to this Post with your Fantasy Team name, Favourite NFL Team, and Division Winner predictions.

Good luck!

Categories
FANTASY

Gridiron Pros Week 8 Power Rankings – Sports Fanatics play Fantasy SF-29

Still anybody’s Season

A lot of thought went into the current Power Rankings now that 2/3 of the Season is complete.  Even Defences, and Players that could be returning from injury were considered.  After much deliberation these are the current rankings.

Power Rankings

1 – Pixie’s Pirates

Currently ranked 6th overall with a 4-4 record, and 963.53 total points for the Season.

It wasn’t easy selecting Pixie’s Pirates as the team to beat with only a 4-4 record.  It’s hard to ignore the strength of her trio of Running Backs (Todd Gurley, Mark Ingram, and Carlos Hyde) and the combination of Drew Brees to Michael Thomas.  Add in the scoring potential of the Jaguars D, plus the possible return of David Johnson.  It’s hard to bet against Pixie’s Pirates.

2 – Grid Warriors

Currently ranked 7th overall with a 4-4 record, and 1071.28 total points for the Season.

Yes I know that it’s another 4-4 team being featured in the Top 3.  Some of you might think I’m being biased because it happens to be my team. Before you think I’m being biased take a look at the roster.  Deshaun Watson, Leonard Fournette, and Antonio Brown should be enough to strike fear in any opponent.  Julio Jones and Jerick McKinnon would be welcome additions on any other team as well.  The only thing that stopped me from being at the top of the rankings was my lack of quality depth at Tight End with the injury to Delanie Walker.

3 – Blitzkrieg

Currently ranked 1rst overall with a 6-2 record, and 977.06 total points for the Season.

The team ranked first overall with the second highest total points for makes sense right.  This wasn’t easy either because the next two teams could also argue to be in this spot.  The difference maker for Blitzkrieg was a slightly better balance at all positions, and the increased production of the Russell Wilson to Doug Baldwin combination.  They would benefit with an upgrade at TE, and a possible trade for another decent WR.

4 – Because you’re a Lannister

Currently ranked 4th overall with a 5-3 record, and 906.16 total points for the Season.

Still leading the Grid South division but only by a game.  Because you’re a Lannister had a difficult middle of the Season going 2-2 over the last four games.  Still Carson Wentz, LeSean McCoy, and company are a well balanced unit.  Because you’re a Lannister doesn’t have any glaring weaknesses, but their lack of quality playmakers has them out of the Top 3.

5 – Swaggy B

Currently ranked 3rd overall with a 5-3 record, and 863.99 total points for the Season.

Swaggy B has a powerful trio of players with Dak Prescott, A.J. Green, and Tyreek Hill.  This could easily be a Top 3 team if only they had even one quality Running Back.  Currently James White is their number 1 RB.  That’s just not going to cut it in the Playoffs.  If Swaggy B is serious about making a run for the championship they will probably need to make a trade.

6 – Captain Canada

Currently ranked 8th overall with a 3-5 record, and 880.94 total points for the Season.

Our first team with a losing record enters the ranks.  With the fifth most points for the Season Captain Canada doesn’t deserve to have a losing record.  With Fantasy stars Alex Smith, Ezekiel Elliot, and Travis Kelce Captain Canada matches up well against most opponents.  What’s held them back is the serious lack of depth at Wide Receiver in a PPR league.  Unless they upgrade at WR, I don’t see Captain Canada as a threat to win the championship.

7 – Stoniestars

Currently ranked 9th overall with a 3-5 record, and 875.92 total points for the Season.

Stoniestars has built a roster around their two star Running Backs Kareem Hunt, and Melvin Gordon.  Mediocre Wide Receiver, and Tight End play has limited their success.  Stacked at Running Back will the additions of Javorius Allen, and Adrian Peterson they should be looking to make a trade to create some balance.  Otherwise I consider it a long shot for Stoniestars to make the playoffs.

8 – For Whom the Bell Tolls for

Currently ranked 11th overall with a 3-5 record, and 855.22 total points for the Season.

Kirk Cousins, Le’Veon Bell, and Chris Thompson are providing plenty of Fantasy points every week.  Unfortunately for For Whom the Bell Tolls for their Wide Receivers have been inconsistent to say the least.  Capable of having huge Fantasy weeks or total flops makes predicting how For Whom the Bell Tolls for will potentially finish.  They might only be one quality Wide Receiver away from making a run for a consecutive title.

9- RuinRevelation

Currently ranked 5th overall with a 4-4 record, and 823.70 total points for the Season.

Very similar to For Whom the Bell Tolls for RuinRevelation has breakout potential every week with Tom Brady, Jordan Howard, and Will Fuller.  What brings them in one spot lower is a far more difficult remaining strength of schedule.  Still this is a team that stands a very good chance of making the playoffs, and could compete for a Championship once there.

10 – The Losers

Currently ranked 2nd overall with a 6-2 record, and 768.96 total points for the Season.

How can the second placed team with only two losses be 10th in my power rankings?  Well The Losers are 6-2 despite having the least points for the Season.  Eventually their luck will have to run out, and I think that time is now.  They do have Cam Newton, Zack Ertz, and the Denver Broncos Defence to lean on.  Still glaring holes at Running Back, and a mediocre Wide Receiver group can’t keep producing.  They only need one more win to guarantee a winning Season.  With the way this Season has been going that could be enough to squeak into the playoffs.  All I can say is that if The Losers make the playoffs I hope they are my opponent.

11 – Skins2

Currently ranked 10th overall with a 3-5 record, and 834.46 total points for the Season.

Having Players like DeAndre Hopkins, Rob Gronkowski, and Tarik Cohen on your team means that you have a chance.  The problem for Skins2 is the loss of Aaron Rodgers to injury means Marcus Mariota is your number 1 Quarterback.  Unfortunately the Titans are a run first team. Outside of Cohen who can’t be counted on producing every week.  Skins2 has very little depth at Running Back.  A trade needs to be made or Skins2 should be preparing for next year.

12 – Just Win Baby

Currently ranked 12th overall with a 2-6 record, and 770.96 total points for the Season.

Outside of Mike Evans Just Win Baby doesn’t have much to be excited about.  At this point they might be better off preparing for next Season.  Their two Players with the greatest Keeper potential are Mike Evans and Keenan Allen.  They could make a trade for a Player with even more potential that’s currently on IR, and a decent pick to a team that wants to win now.  Honestly I don’t see a path to victory for Just Win Baby unless there are a number of key injuries to opponents rosters.

Final third of the Season

Every Division is still up for grabs.  I still believe that Blitzkrieg is the team to beat in Grid North.  Grid Warriors has become the team to beat with their recent trade for Deshaun Watson.  Pixie’s Pirates is still the team to beat in Grid South.  The trade deadline is quickly approaching so expect there to be some major deals happen over the next two weeks.  Who will push for this year’s title.  I know that I will.

Categories
GOLF Uncategorized

The right Game Improvement Iron – Beginner’s guide to Golf

Statistical Surprise

When I started looking for my first set of Irons I placed additional importance on three specific categories.  I had been practicing my swing at the Range with a friend’s old 5 Iron, and 7 Iron.  I was hitting the 5 Iron only about 130 yards, and the 7 Iron about 100 yards on a good day.  My miss was usually a slice, or catching it thin.  When I didn’t get centre face contact the ball practically flew half the distance.  So when I decided to buy my first set, Distance, Forgiveness, and Price were the big three for me.  After going to my local Golf store at least a dozen times to test clubs in the simulator I narrowed down my choices to three models.  In the end I went with a previous generation of the Adams Blue, and purchased the Adams Idea tech V4.  It was a demo set so the price was right.  It’s also a Hybrid/Iron set so it’s very forgiving.  During testing it also appeared to be quite long.  It wasn’t until much later that I realized it didn’t actually add any significant distance.  It only seemed that way because of how forgiving it was.  My swing was so bad during testing that I rarely caught a ball well enough for the distance characteristics to be accurate.  If you are in the market for your first set of clubs then I would like to make a suggestion.  The three factors I listed should be of importance to you.  When testing clubs bring along a friend that’s a significantly better Golfer than you.  When you find a few models that feel right, and are forgiving.  Have your friend test those same models for distance.  They can tell you if they are longer than what they are used to, average, or shorter.  As your swing develops the distance characteristics of that club will begin to take affect.  There is one more characteristic you should be aware of when selecting your clubs though, and that’s…

Spin

I’ve already begun researching what my next set of Irons will be.  This time I will focus on all four characteristics, Price, Distance, Forgiveness, and Spin.  The motivation for this article happened when I did a Google search for High Spin Game Improvement Irons, and basically got nothing useful.  You would think that with all the Golf equipment reviewers out there, I’d find something?  The reality of it is they still focus on the typical three characteristics.  Spin is basically overlooked, even though they have the Spin numbers readily available.  So how important is Spin?  Well it’s important enough that Ball manufacturers consider it one of the top two reasons to select their ball.  So much emphasis is placed on a ball’s Spin characteristics that most Golfers look at that first when selecting a ball.  Well what good is having a High Spin ball if your Irons don’t impart much Spin on the ball to begin with?  What if you are after more Distance, and select a low Spin ball, but your Irons are designed to increase the amount of Spin?  These combinations really don’t make sense do they?  While the Forgiveness, and Distance determine how well you can hit a ball.  The Spin has a far greater affect on how successfully you play the game.  As your swing improves, your ability to hold Greens, run through Fairways, or shape your shot is all determined by the Spin.  Too often Beginners believe that a ball change will make a significant difference.  In some cases it can, but only if their equipment, and swing allows it.  By the end of my second Season I had come to realize that Spin is more important to me than Distance.  I have around a 140 yard carry with my 7 Iron.  That’s really enough for me.  I’ve tried clubs that provide me with a carry of 150 yards, but sacrifice Forgiveness and Spin to do so. Thanks but no thanks.  I’ll take control over distance any day.

Low Spin Game Improvement Irons

Calloway Big Bertha

– Center of gravity is low and forward.

– has a 360 degree face cup to increase forgiveness.

– falls into the super game improvement category, and is quite chunky to look at.

– one of the three longest Irons tested.

– one of the three least forgiving Irons tested.

Cobra Fly-Z

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– has a speed channel groove for increased forgiveness.

– relatively attractive top line at address

– very easy to get the ball up in the air.

Ping G Max

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– uses COR Eye2 technology for increased distance and forgiveness.

– falls into the super game improvement category, and is quite chunky to look at.

– very dull appearance, but a satisfying sound and feel at impact.

Mid Spin Game Improvement Irons

Mizuno JPX EZ

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– thin sole cavity increases distance and launch.

– gorgeous looking Iron with the top line at address of a larger Players Iron.

– one of the three least forgiving Irons tested.

Taylormade RSi 1

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– uses face slots and a speed pocket to increase distance and forgiveness.

– slightly lower launch than most of the other Irons tested.

– one of the three most forgiving Irons tested.

Nike Vapor Fly

– Center of gravity is center and back.

– hollow body construction to increase forgiveness.

– NexCOR face to increase distance.

– the hollow body construction gives it a mini hybrid appearance.  A unique look that won’t appeal to everyone.

High Spin Game Improvement Irons

Cleveland Launcher HB

– Center of gravity is low and way back.

– hybrid/Iron design for greater launch and improved forgiveness.

– falls into the super game improvement category, and is quite chunky to look at.

– the most forgiving Iron tested.

Wilson D300

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– FLX face technology is used to increase distance.

– power holes around the face increase forgiveness.

– despite a relatively thin top line the urethane filled power holes can look odd to some Players.

– the longest of all the Irons tested.

– one of the three most forgiving Irons tested.

Titleist AP1 716

– Center of gravity is low and back.

– 360 degree cavity increases launch and distance.

– toe and heel weighting increases forgiveness.

– very classic looking Iron with a relatively thin top line.

– one of the three longest Irons tested.

– one of the three least forgiving Irons tested.

My Top 3 and Conclusions

First of all it’s important for you to know that “High Spin” is a relative measure.  Generally speaking Game Improvement Irons aren’t high spinning Irons.  In order to provide the additional forgiveness and Distance, Spin is usually reduced.  For the purposes of this study the Spin groups were: 7 Iron backspin

less than 3500 RPM   = Low Spin

3500 – 4500 RPM       = Mid Spin

more than 4500 RPM = High Spin

You’ll also notice that I include Irons manufactured from 2015 to 2017.  Unlike some of the better known Golf reviewers, I am not sent product from manufacturers to review.  I test whatever peaks my interest at my local Golf store.  Because price is also an important consideration I have a tendency to purchase clearance items.  Every Iron listed in this Review can still be found for purchase.

Now with the four factors carefully taken into consideration my Top 3 Irons for a Beginner that’s serious about improving at Golf are:

3rd Place – Nike Vapor Fly

Although the Nike Vapor Fly wasn’t the longest, or the most forgiving.  It was relatively easy to hit, forgiving enough on miss hits, and because  Nike got out of the equipment market available for a great price.  It still generates enough Spin that Beginners will learn to create enough control over the ball as their swing improves.  The looks won’t bother a newer Golfer that isn’t used to a traditional blade.  For practically half the price of most of the Irons on this list you can’t go wrong.

2nd Place – Taylormade RSi 1

I found the Taylormade RSi 1 to be the easiest Iron to hit.  Maybe it’s a result of the Face slots, and Speed Pocket.  I really don’t know.  One thing is for sure is that the RSi 1 is very forgiving.  Distance is good but not great, and it also generates enough Spin to control the ball as your swing improves.  The looks should appeal to most Golfers. Even the Face slots serve to frame the ball at address.  It’s the oldest model tested, and as such comes in at a very attractive price.

1rst Place – Wilson D300

You read that right, Wilson wins the day.  Shows you why you should take the time to test everything.  I’ll be honest with you, the looks of the D300 kind of bother me.  All those Power Holes make the club look very busy at address.  During testing I was so impressed with the performance that I stopped noticing.  It was easily the longest of the Irons I tested, very forgiving on miss hits anywhere on the face, and one of the highest spinning Irons tested.  The only other Iron that really came close was the Titleist AP1 716 but it fell far short in the Forgiveness category.  Not to mention that the D300 Iron set is currently $200 less than the Titleist.  That being said it still comes in at around twice the price of the Taylormade or Nike.  So depending on your budget it may currently be out of it.

Honorable mention goes to the Titleist AP1 716 Irons.  If you are a slightly better Player that has learned how to shape your shot, but still needs added distance?  Then the AP1 Irons could be for you.

Honorable mention also goes to the Cleveland Launcher HB Irons.  An absolutely great Beginners Iron that provides maximum forgiveness, and a lot of Spin.  Very easy to learn with but be prepared to want to upgrade after only a few seasons.

Beginner’s guide to Golf

FOLLOW ME ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/cobeness

FOLLOW ME ON INSTAGRAM
http://instagram.com/cobesports

FOLLOW ME ON MY WEBSITE
https://cobelife.com

FOLLOW ME ON FACEBOOK
http://www.facebook.com/cobelifegolf

Categories
GAMING Uncategorized

Hidden Agenda PS4 Review – The Gamer in me GL-15

First impressions

Finally!  I’ve been waiting for this game.  I absolutely loved Until Dawn.  I couldn’t wait for the next release from Supermassive Games.  I’m also a fan of the Playlink system so Hidden Agenda sounded like the perfect fit for me.  The accompanying cellphone Application is well designed.  Very simple to use, and I found it to be very responsive during game play.  I’ve read some reviews that claimed to have connection issues with the application, but I personally experienced none of that.  The actual game is a bit of a mixed bag for me.  Having played Until Dawn too many times, I was expecting a more action packed story.  That was not the case.  Fortunately what the story lacks in action, it more than makes up for it in mood and suspense.

Game play

The story in Hidden Agenda progresses smoothly.  It seems like every decision you make can have serious consequences later.  This is where the Playlink system really shines.  The majority of the decisions your group of Players make have to be unanimous.  This can lead to some serious debates among the Players.  That’s actually where the real action takes place.  Especially if you elected to play the competitive version of the game instead of the cooperative.  Hidden Agenda can be played as a group collectively trying to reach the same goal, or with a competitive twist where each Player is trying to steer the group along a specific path.  Whichever mode you choose, expect a fair amount of debate between Players about which choice is the right one.  Don’t expect the game to help steer you in the right direction either.  On my first play through I obviously failed miserably.  At least the failure wasn’t all mine.  The other Players got to share in the blame.  Unlike other Playlink games that I’ve played, there’s a lot of interaction going on in Hidden Agenda.  Your cellphone becomes a touch pad  at many points in the game.  You might have to use it to aim up a shot, move an item out of the way during a high speed chase, or search a room for clues.  The important thing to note here is that you aren’t just watching everything happening.  You are at times in control of it.  Miss an important clue, and someone could die.  I’m not even kidding!  Although the game can seem to be a little slow paced.  It manages to create the sensation that time is working against you, and speed is of the essence.  This can lead to you making decisions quicker than you necessarily have to.  This makes poor choices feel like the result of added pressure created by the situation.  Affectively immersing you right into the story as that particular character.  Absolutely amazing in my opinion.  Too often we feel like God’s moving characters around in the games we play.  It’s extremely rare to actually feel like what’s happening to a character in a game is happening to you.  Then having to debate with others what you believe to be the correct course of action for that character only increases your connection to the end result.  Just a brilliant bit of Game Design by the team at Supermassive Games.

Satisfaction

The whole thing takes between roughly two or three hours to complete.  For me that’s a bit short.  I was hoping for a four hour experience to be honest.  My first play through took just over two hours.  Thankfully my group totally shit the bed.  If we had beat it with our first play through in under three hours I would have been pissed!  Thankfully the correct choices that lead you to victory aren’t obvious.  Who knows, maybe it will take me a full four hours to actually win the game.  I won’t know for sure until that happens.  The good news is that I will thoroughly enjoy every time I try.  Hidden Agenda is a pleasure to play with a few friends.  It even has intermissions of sorts.  In case you need another beer, a smoke break, bathroom break, or refill of the snack bowl.  The pace of the game for a play group is pretty much perfect.

If you enjoy the odd get together with a few friends, and would like to try something a little different.  Then I would strongly suggest that you give Hidden Agenda a try.  For less than half the price of a typical PS4 game you really can’t go wrong.

Categories
FISHING Uncategorized

Popular spots – The Right Angle RA-15

Don’t dismiss the classic spots

Everyone knows about the popular fishing holes in their area.  There’s nothing secret about them.  Usually they have signs posted that are supposed to alert tourists to where they are allowed to fish.  If you have lived in the area for a long time.  You undoubtedly have stories about trophy catches you made there as a kid.  You remember the days when you used to go fishing there on the weekend, and you might come across three or four other people Fishing each day.  You can’t even remember when the last time you fished there was.  All you remember was that there were so many people Fishing that day that you couldn’t find a spot open enough to have room to cast.  Friends you grew up fishing with have told you that too much Fishing pressure there has made landing anything worthwhile practically hopeless.  Well if that’s the case, then why are people still fishing there?  The answer is simple.  Barring an ecological disaster, where there’s been fish, there always will be fish.  Trust me when I tell you that the person that goes fishing only a few times a year won’t spend a day casting unless they see other people catching fish.  The reason those classic spots are so busy is because there’s always somebody catching something.  Sure it may not be anything worth telling stories by the fire about.  Still the thrill of the catch is always there when somebody else lands a fish.  Now maybe you are more like me, and Fishing is also about getting away from it all, and finding a little solitude.  It won’t matter much to me if I land a decent sized fish if there’s a family of tourists snapping pictures of it over my shoulder.  I’ve had that happen more than once actually.  So then why am I telling you don’t dismiss the classic spots?

The tourist fishing season is over

Now keep in mind that I’m talking about Southern Ontario.  When the temperature begins to drop, Thanksgiving turkey is all gone, and parents are focused on getting there kids Halloween costumes.  Suddenly those popular spots you no longer consider fishing because everyone, and their dog will be there become totally devoid of fishermen.  That’s right, I shit you not.  The only people Fishing now are Fanatics like you and me.  We are more likely to travel an extra hour or two to one of our secret spots than just take a quick trip down the street to that fishing hole everyone knows about.  I figured this out a few years ago by total fluke.  I was watching football at a friend’s place who lives really close to High Park.  After the second game we decided to take his dog for a walk through the Park.  When we walked passed Grenadier Pond where I would normally see at least half a dozen people Fishing at this time, there was no one.  Not a soul.  The Pond looked eerily still.  I found myself wishing I had a fishing rod with me.  Was it just a coincidence I thought.  I had to know so I came back the next weekend with a collapsible Rod and Reel.  My suspicions were correct.  There was nobody there.  I was rewarded for bringing the Rod with me because it took less than an hour for me to land a nice sized Bluegill.  I mentioned in my last Fishing post how I hate Salmon Season.  Well as the Salmon running hype slows down, the classic spots begin to open up.  Do yourself a favour and save yourself the trip up north.  Just pack up a portable tackle box, and give the local fishing hole a try.

Categories
FANTASY Uncategorized

Fantasy League Week 6 recap – Sports Fanatics play Fantasy SF-28

The hot teams

At the half way point of the regular season, certain teams have made the necessary adjustments to separate themselves from the pack.  Beginning with the True Fanatics League.  Texas Proud has continued to roll relying on the strength of their two top Tier Running Backs Kareem Hunt and Melvin Gordon.  Currently undefeated they still maintain their number 1 position, and are definitely the team to beat.  Two teams that have made a statement recently are Muh Feelins, and Cobe Life.  Both teams are on a two Game winning streak because of key acquisitions.  Much Feelins is taking full advantage of their Tarik Cohen, and Austin Seferian-Jenkins pickups.  Cobe Life has benefitted from their Chris Thompson waiver wire pickup,  and carefully cycling through kickers.

In the Gridiron Pros League the hot teams are Blitzkrieg which comes as no surprise considering how well balanced their roster is.  A surprise addition to the hot teams list is The Losers.  Aggressive acquisitions of Adrian Peterson, Allen Hurns, and Rishard Matthews have quickly turned this team into a playoff contender.  For Whom the Bell Tolls for has also utilized the waiver wire, and Free Agency to go from winless to two straight victories.  Grid North is obviously looking to make a statement.  Luckily for me, my team(Grid Warriors) has been the only upward mover in Grid Central.  My two straight wins while every other team has lost has every team in Grid Central sitting at 3-3.  At this point the Division title is totally up for grabs.  The last three games of the regular season could mean more to this division than the others.

Lets make a deal

A couple key trades happened this week in the Gridiron Pros League.  Both of which involved Grid Central teams.  With the recent group of injuries to Quarterbacks, Team Managers were looking to strengthen their rosters with a new signal caller.  Grid Warriors dealt Tevin Coleman and a high Draft pick to acquire Rookie sensation Deshaun Watson.  With the injury to Aaron Rodgers potentially knocking him out for the remainder of the season.  Skins2 dealt Will Fuller to acquire Marcus Mariota to take over as their starting Quarterback.  It wouldn’t surprise me to see a couple more trades happen before Week 8.  Injuries, and underperforming players are forcing Team Managers to look beyond the waiver wire.  Each trade your opponents make is a trade you may have missed out on.  My only weakness was at Quarterback.  Well after one trade I would consider that position a strength now.  A couple weeks ago I picked RuinRevelation as the team to beat in Grid Central.  Well now I can confidently say that my team is the team to beat in Grid Central.  I have a tough match this week against Pixie’s Pirates, but after that I wouldn’t be surprised if I win enough games to sit on top of my division.

 Added depth

I love looking at my starting lineup, and seeing that it has no weakness.  Nothing makes you feel more confident before a game.  I still look at my bench though.  If my bench is full of Players I wouldn’t even consider starting.  I begin to wonder what will happen to my Season if even one star gets hurt.  This is why you should never get complacent in Fantasy Football.  Injuries have a far greater impact in Fantasy Football than any other Fantasy Sport.  If a star Player misses even 4 games.  That’s the equivalent of a third of most Fantasy Football regular seasons.  If you can pickup a surging Player off the waiver wire for even 3 games.  That could be the extra points you needed to make the Playoffs.  Something I’ve noticed playing Fantasy Football year after year is the lack of attention Free Agents get.  Once waivers have cleared it’s open season on whatever Players are left unclaimed.  Quite often I’m able to find great Players available for free because they happen to be on a bye week.  It doesn’t hurt to take a look every Thursday to see what’s available.

Competitive Leagues

At the beginning of every Fantasy Football year the same thought crosses my mind.  I hope that no matter what happens every Manager remains interested and competitive.  So far this year every Fantasy League I’m in has been very competitive.  The real test begins around Week 9.  It’s possible to be practically eliminated from the Playoffs at that time.  Well so what.  Do your League a favour and play spoiler.  When I know that I’m going to miss the Playoffs.  My goal is to take another team down with me.  That’s how rivalries are made.

Categories
GOLF Uncategorized

Going outside your comfort zone – Beginner’s guide to Golf

Your go to clubs

Every one of us has a couple of clubs in their bag that we can’t seem to ever hit poorly.  These are our go to clubs.  One of mine is my 52 degree MacGregor VIP Wedge.  A full swing will allow me to carry the ball about 82 yards with around 2-3 yards of roll out.  I can muscle it up to 92 yards with maybe 2 yards of roll out.  I can also swing easy and hit it about 78 yards with a couple yards of roll out.  I know this because I use it so often in any number of situations.  There are very few clubs that I will choose to muscle for additional distance.  My Gap Wedge is one of them, and my 3 Hybrid is the other.  My first full year playing Golf, the longest club in my bag was my 3 Hybrid.  You learn to muscle your longest club.  Especially when you usually hit it about 180 yards, and you need to hit your Tee shot 190 yards just to reach the Fairway.  It’s one of the only clubs in my bag that I can affectively shape my shot with.  If I need to hit a long low stinger to stay out of the wind.  The only club I would consider is my 3 Hybrid.

Having that kind of confidence can only help your game right.  Sure it does.  Knowing that you can make those shots will definitely help you work your way around a course.  What you may not realize is that you could also be limiting your opportunities by leaning on those particular clubs.  I’ve caught myself doing it at times.  Teeing off with my 190 yard 3 Hybrid when I could aim for an equally wide portion of the Fairway with my 205 yard 3 Wood.  Then having to cut the corner of a dogleg and carry my approach shot 160 yards.  Instead of having a clear approach to the Green of only 145 yards.  Just because I trust my ability with my 3 Hybrid more than I do with my 3 Wood.  I’ve passed up trying to reach the Green in two after a great Tee shot, because I wanted to set myself up for a Gap Wedge approach from 85 yards.  Chances are I wouldn’t have reached the Green, but I could have easily left myself with a 20 to 30 yard chip shot instead.  Sound familiar to any of you?

Practice what you hate

Too often we go out to the Range, or spend an hour in the simulator hitting whatever we are best at.  Marvelling at the distance, trajectory, and shot dispersion.  We might shoot a short video or take a picture for posterity.  I sure as hell do.  It lets us know that we have improved, builds confidence, and shows others that we know what we are doing.  To be honest though it doesn’t actually help us much.  Don’t get me wrong, any practice is better than nothing.  The problem with hitting your best shot during practice is that you should be using this time to improve your worst shots.  Think about it.  If you are nervous, or uncomfortable hitting difficult shots during Practice when the result doesn’t matter.  How are you ever going to hit a successful one of those shots out on the course when it does matter?  When I first began playing I’d only hit the clubs I was most comfortable with because I didn’t want to embarrass myself at the Range.  It didn’t take long for me to realize that Range embarrassment is much easier to take than Course embarrassment.  At that point I would bring the clubs I was struggling with, and one or two clubs I was confident with to the Range.  That way I could switch back and forth between clubs I hit well, and clubs I don’t.  Just so I wouldn’t get overly frustrated.  It wasn’t long before I realized that I started every Range session with clubs I hit well “to loosen up”, and finished the Range session with the same club.  I’d only hit a few of the clubs I’m struggling with in between.  All that actually accomplished was to reinforce my opinion of which clubs I hit best.  It was actually counterproductive.  My last trip out to the Range I only bought one club along to practice with.  I’ve been having trouble hitting my Driver with any degree of accuracy.  So I went out to the Range with the sole purpose of fixing my issues with the least accurate club in my bag.  It took about a full bucket to get my Driver swing to where I hoped it would be.  The first 20 balls I hit we’re ugly, and that’s putting it lightly.  If I had another club with me I would have probably given up, and switched to hitting that.  I’m glad I didn’t because by the time I had finished my bucket of balls I couldn’t wait to Tee off with the big stick on a course.

What’s the goal?

Golf is simply just a series of choices.  Each shot requires you to choose the right club, and choose the right shot.  Then you just need to execute.  In order to do this effectively you need to be able to treat every club in your bag as your go to club.  That way it doesn’t matter the distance, situation, or lie.  You will hit each and every shot with total confidence.

Beginner’s guide to Golf

Categories
GAMING Uncategorized

Imperial Assault review – The Gamer in me GL-14

A great Design

I’ve been playing board games for a long time.  One thing that I can say for sure is that Game Design has significantly improved.  I use to find major flaws with almost every game I purchased after a few times playing.  The percentage of games that are brutally unbalanced, or contain game breaking elements are far lower now.  Imperial Assault is no exception.  I’ve read other people’s reviews, and comments about Campaign balance issues.  After playing through the game a number of times.  I can assure you that their opinions are unfounded.  The concern is most commonly about one side (Rebels or Imperials) gaining a significant advantage by winning too many missions in a row, and gaining an insurmountable advantage.  With proper Strategy, no advantage is insurmountable if you focus on the objectives.  Another aspect that is overlooked by most is that in order to win, the only mission that matters is the last one.  Every other mission only helps determine which path you take to get there.  I’ve also come across discussions on the Forums about assembling super groups of Rebel Heroes.  Trust me there is no such thing.  As the Imperial player there will be some missions that provide you with a predetermined Imperial units load out that can significantly limit your chances of success.  Of course there are other missions that provide you with the freedom to select the best possible group of units to defeat the Rebels.  In this way Campaigns involving equally skilled players rarely feel unbalanced.  Fantasy Flight Games have done an excellent job of making each and every character feel unique, and equally important.  Of course there are characters like Gideon from the Core set that can combine with others to create powerful effects.  This in no way makes other characters feel insignificant.

Unpredictable turn sequence

An interesting departure from the majority of RPG style dungeon crawler games is Imperial Assault’s Turn sequence.  Instead of all the Rebel Players playing their turn, then the Imperial player taking theirs.  Each Character or unit takes their turn alternating between the Rebels and Imperials.  The order isn’t predetermined by initiative or any other means.  Each side selects which unit they would like to activate next after the opponent has completed their last activation.  This makes choosing which unit to use next, and how to use them quite similar to Chess.  Although the game is character driven.  Rebel Players will be upgrading, and levelling up their Heroes as the Campaign progresses.  Imperial Assault is first and foremost a Strategy based Board Game.  Resource management, time management, character formations, and even sacrificing characters play an important role.  The simplest of Actions could be the difference between winning or losing a mission.  All of these elements combined make for a very enjoyable game to play.

Is it Star Wars?

There are many games on the market that are based upon existing storylines.  Whether they are video game adaptations, movie adaptations, literary adaptations, or historical adaptations.  A recognizable background story can make a game appeal to a far greater number of people.  Obviously Star Wars is recognizable by most people.  The Star Wars universe is so well known that it places an even greater importance on creating something that feels authentic.  Well Fantasy Flight Games have done an excellent job of making each mission in Imperial Assault feel like a scene out of one of the movies.  The Rebels always seem to be out numbered.  Whenever they do appear to gain the upper hand.  A powerful Imperial character like Darth Vader shows up to wreck the day.  The sense of urgency that you feel throughout the majority of Star Wars films. The Rebels always seem to be running out of time.  That is also well represented in an Imperial Assault Campaign.  You might expect to see many of the most popular characters early and often in an Imperial Assault Campaign.  To be honest it’s what I expected the first time I played the game.  Well you would be wrong.  The Imperial Assault Campaign system does a good job of placing the importance on the Players Heroes, but still having your favourite characters from the movies be a factor.  This effectively helps keep everyone interested, and adds an additional element of excitement when a famous character from the Star Wars universe makes an appearance.

Conclusion

If you are a fan of the Star Wars universe, or just a fan of strategic dungeon crawler style Board Games.  Imperial Assault would make a great addition to your game collection.  As far as Campaign based Board Games go.  Imperial Assault has become my absolute favourite.  Although there are quite a few expansions, and character packs available.  Imperial Assault is perfectly playable with only the Core set.  If you have three or four friends that you can get together with on a regular basis.  Do yourself a favour and pick up a copy of Imperial Assault.  You won’t be disappointed.

Categories
FANTASY

Real deal rookies – Sports Fanatics play Fantasy SF-27

A Rookie Rampage

I’ve been watching NFL football for a long time.  I’ve seen Rookie sensations before.  I’ll never forget Anquan Boldin’s rookie record breaking performance in his first game as an Arizona Cardinal.  Terrell Davis had a great rookie season, and just kept getting better.  Randy Moss put all his doubters to shame, and proved the Minnesota Vikings right for picking him.  Year after year another star is born.  This year, this Season just feels a little bit different.

Kareem Hunt

Deshaun Watson

Leonard Fournette

Dalvin Cook

Christian McCaffrey

Alvin Kamara

David Njoku

and the list goes on.

Why are so many rookies succeeding?

Are the colleges doing a better job of coaching them?  Has changes to the Game allowed them to shine?  Has modern science helped develop superior athletes?  I believe that all three play a part.  There has been a recent shift towards a more pass oriented NFL.  One of the reasons for this is the implementation of stricter rules governing contact, and tackling of Wide Receivers.  Stricter rules implemented to protect Quarterbacks have contributed to the passing game as well.  When the rules allowed for linebackers to take full powered headshots on Quarterbacks.  The Running Game was of an even greater importance to keep Quarterbacks healthy.  As a result of this change to a more pass happy game.  Opportunities have been created for rookie Wide Receivers who might have been limited to far fewer targets a decade ago.  My list of breakout rookies has five Running Backs on it though.  What isn’t obvious at first but makes perfect sense is that a pass happy offence creates additional room to run.  Defences have shifted from single or two safety formations to three safety plus drop back linebackers to shut down passing lanes.  This can allow Running Backs to get to the second level of the Defence far more easily.  Even though Running Backs get far fewer touches per game on average.  Their likelihood of breaking free for a big gain is increased.

There’s no doubt that Players keep getting bigger, faster, and stronger.  Pay attention to the Scouting combine.  Records are getting broken by the new crop of Rookies every year.  Modern science has made an impact.  Couple that with a League that has placed a far greater emphasis on protecting the health of their Players.  What used to be a very difficult transition for many Rookies to make, and stay healthy has become a relatively easy transition to the professional game.  Of course injuries can still happen.  As evidenced by Dalvin Cook this year.  Still fewer carries for Running Backs means greater longevity.  Rules to protect Quarterbacks means rookies will have more time to acclimate to the NFL before they become shell shocked, or seriously injured.  Penalizing Safeties for making powerful hits on defenceless Receivers will allow Rookies to learn their routes without being worried about getting knocked out of the game.

In regards to how well the College programs are preparing their Players for the NFL.  I don’t think that the College programs have necessarily improved.  What I believe is that the NFL has become more like the College Game.  Mobile Quarterbacks, a greater percentage of option plays, and multiple Receiver sets are what the College Game has been all about for years.  You are now beginning to see similar offences in the NFL.  The Carolina Panthers are a great example.  When their Offence is clicking, it’s like watching a College Game.

Is it here to stay?

I truly believe that it is.  The more rules that are implemented to protect Quarterbacks and Receivers.  The more likely a pass first motion Offence will thrive.  A part of me misses the hard nosed football of days past.  When my favourite Player of all time Steve Atwater would literally run full speed, and time the snap count perfectly to destroy the Quarterback or Running Back on a blitz behind the line of scrimmage.  When going across the middle, and stretching out to catch a ball meant you risked getting killed by Ronnie Lott.  Now as a Fantasy Football Fanatic I can appreciate that my roster of Players have a very good chance of finishing the Season.  What I can’t accept as easily is the records that are being broken in this era should have an asterisk attached.  Especially when it concerns Quarterback statistics.

 

Categories
GOLF Uncategorized

Golf budget Buyer advice – Beginner’s guide to Golf

Golf on a budget

Golf is an expensive sport to play.  There’s really no way around it.  When you add up the cost of your equipment, clothes, golf balls, travel, Range, and Course costs.  The final number isn’t anything to laugh at, and the cost to play never ends.  So when your leisure time is on a budget like mine.  Why choose Golf as your sport?  For me the answer is simple.  Golf can provide you with an experience that very few Sports can offer.  For a few hours on the course you can feel like you’re somewhere else.  I’ve described it to people as a one day vacation.  Being out on a well maintained course for a round of golf can feel like you just got off a plane, made your way over to the resort, and now you are enjoying a little R&R.  The bonus is that you didn’t have to go through customs, check your luggage, or sit in an uncomfortable seat for who knows how long between two strangers.  You can’t get that same sensation playing hockey on a rink, baseball on a diamond, soccer on a pitch, or basketball on a court.  The closest thing to it is skiing or snowboarding which I did do for a while.  Unfortunately winter doesn’t agree with me so I eventually gave it up.  So now you understand my main motivation.  That still doesn’t overcome the main obstacle to playing Golf.

The Cost, and how to reduce it.

Understanding the secondary market for Golf equipment is key to buying on a budget.   Most major retailers of used Golf equipment still charge a relatively high price.  In most cases you can find brand new clearance product for the same or in some cases an even lower price.  For instance I have seen a clearance set of Speedblade Irons for $100 less than a used set.  Another thing that you need to be aware of is the difference between Mass market, Large market, and Niche market manufacturers.  Mass market manufacturers like Wilson or Dunlop over complete sets of clubs for a reasonable price.  The quality is quite good for the cost, but the perceived value is much lower than the Large or Niche market manufacturers.  In other words don’t ever plan on selling your set for anywhere close to what you paid for it.  Of course most people won’t need to replace their clubs for many years with minimal maintenance so the resale value shouldn’t be much of a detriment.  Another issue some of the more serious Golfers will have with mass market golf sets is the lack of customization.  What you see is what you get.  There’s no bounce or degree options with the Wedges.  Don’t expect Drivers or Woods to be adjustable.  Hopefully the Putter suits you.  Of course you can add additional clubs after, but each club costs you more money.

Large market retailers like Taylormade, Cobra, and Calloway offer the smart consumer great deals provided they are willing to buy clearance stock.  In the constant battle to keep your interest.  These three companies constantly release new products.  Taylormade has been known to release three new sets of Clubs in a single year.  This would make models from the previous year undesirable by most, but still readily available.  In order to create display space for the new models, retailers will heavily discount last year’s product.  If you pay close attention to the product specs and reviews you will quickly realize that last year’s model might be almost identical to this year’s with only slightly different aesthetics.   For about half the price of the newer model you can get a brand new club that provides almost identical performance.  Although the resale value of Large market manufacturers isn’t very high either.  Chances are good that you will be happy with the clubs you personally selected for a long time.

Niche market manufacturers should be avoided by Golfers on a budget.  Companies like Titleist, PXG or Ping charge a high price for their equipment.  As a result the resale value is quite high as well.  This makes buying second hand equipment costly as well.

Take advantage of the off season

As much as the coming of Winter disappoints me because the Golf courses will all be closing for a few months.  It does provide the savvy buyer with many opportunities to stock up on golfing gear.  Golf stores are pretty dead during the winter so they will try almost anything to get customers in the store.  Buy a Driver and get the matching Wood free.  Get your clubs regripped for half price.  Stock up on Golf balls while they are being heavily discounted.  The clearance clothing stores like Winners or Marshalls will have racks of Summer Golf overstock in the late Fall.  Then of course there’s all the Boxing Week sales.  I got my $400 Driver for $160 on boxing day.  I was offered $250 for it three months later at the local Range.

Buy a little at a time

Buying everything at once can seem overwhelming, and depending on your budget impossible.  Spread out your purchases over time.  It allows you to wait for the best deal, and keep your budget under control.  I went through a full Season without a Driver.  I went through almost two full Seasons before I completed my Wedge set.  I got a great deal on each and every club.  As an added benefit it forced me to learn how to get the most out of each club I owned before I purchased another one.  Remember that if you are serious about taking up Golf.  You will be playing this Sport for many years.  There’s no real rush to complete your first set of 14 clubs.  Most courses can be played just fine with half that number.

Beginner’s guide to Golf