Divisional Playoffs - 2023

Saturday, June 24, 2023 - 4:30PM
Salt Lake @ Memphis
Line: - 1.5 MEM
O/U: 48.0
Win Pct: 54.7% MEM

In a surprising turn of events, the Memphis Demons, who secured a wildcard spot, find themselves hosting a playoff game against the Salt Lake Trappers. The Demons' unexpected opportunity to host this game arises from the elimination of all Western Conference Division winners (Seeds 2, 3, and 4). Following a convincing victory against the Albuquerque Atoms, Memphis have earned the right to play in front of their passionate home crowd.

The Demons enter the game with a potent offense that has showcased their ability to move the ball effectively and put points on the board. Their dynamic air offense, combined with a solid ground game, has proven to be a challenge for opposing defenses throughout the season; Led by their talented quarterback, the Memphis offense will look to exploit any weaknesses in the Trappers' defense and establish an early lead.

On the other side of the field, the Trappers arrive as the underdogs, ready to prove their resilience and determination. They have battled through adversity and overcome numerous obstacles to reach this point. Salt Lake defense, known for their aggressive style of play, will be tasked with containing the Demons' high-powered offense and disrupting their rhythm.

In what promises to be a hard-fought contest, both teams will leave everything on the field. The Demons, driven by the desire to make a deep playoff run, are determined to make the most of their unexpected home-field advantage. Meanwhile, the Trappers, embracing their underdog status, will fight tooth and nail to pull off an upset and advance in the playoffs.

As the clock ticks down and the tension builds, football fans around the nation eagerly await this thrilling playoff clash. With the Memphis Demons narrowly favored, the outcome of this game will likely come down to a few pivotal moments that could define the season for both teams. Brace yourselves for an exhilarating battle between two talented teams vying for a chance to move one step closer to Gridiron Bowl glory.

Saturday, June 24, 2023 - 8:15PM
Birmingham @ Toronto
Line: - 5.0 TOR
O/U: 39.5
Win Pct:  64.0% TOR

The Owls, the Cinderella story of the season, have defied projections week after week, surprising everyone with their remarkable performances. Once again, they enter the game as underdogs, having just experienced a thrilling overtime victory in the wildcard round against the Baltimore Bluebirds, Birmingham is determined to continue shocking the world with their resilient and relentless style of play.

Their opponents, the Toronto Terror boast one of the most talented rosters in the GSL. However, they have had their share of inconsistencies, particularly at the quarterback position. Despite their ups and downs, the Terror managed to secure a hard-fought victory against Louisville in the previous round. With a five-point advantage, they enter this Divisional Round game as the favorites.

The Birmingham Owls' journey has been nothing short of remarkable, with their unexpected success surprising pundits and fans alike. Their ability to rise to the occasion and come through in crucial moments has been the hallmark of their playoff run. With their underdog status once again firmly established, the Owls are fueled by the belief that they can overcome any obstacle.

The Toronto Terror, with their talented roster, will look to exploit their strengths and capitalize on the Owls' perceived weaknesses. Their overall depth and solid defensive unit provide a strong foundation for success. However, the question mark at the quarterback position adds an element of uncertainty to their game plan.

As the game unfolds, the anticipation and excitement reach a fever pitch. Football enthusiasts worldwide eagerly tune in to witness this intriguing matchup. Will the Birmingham Owls, driven by their underdog mentality, continue their improbable run? Or will the Toronto Terror, armed with a talented roster, live up to their status as favorites and advance in the playoffs?

Sunday, June 25, 2023 - 3:00PM
Jacksonville @ New York
Line: - 1.0 NY
O/U: 40.0
Win Pct: 54.4% NY

The CityHawks, as the number one seed in the Eastern Conference, enter the game well-rested and prepared. Their top seeding provides them with a valuable advantage in terms of home-field advantage and extra rest. On the other hand, the Captains are coming off a hard-fought victory against the Wisconsin Stags, winning by a narrow margin of 20-24.

The New York CityHawks, known for their dominant defense and versatile offense, will rely on their strengths to secure a victory in front of their home crowd. Their well-coached team and disciplined approach have consistently propelled them to success throughout the season. With the benefit of rest, the CityHawks have had ample time to fine-tune their game plan and strategize for the Captains' challenges.

The Jacksonville Captains, despite their close victory in the previous round, enter this matchup as the underdogs. However, they have proven time and again their ability to overcome adversity and surprise opponents. The Captains' resilient and determined mindset, coupled with their talented roster, make them a formidable opponent for any team in the playoffs.

As the game unfolds, football fans around the world eagerly anticipate this thrilling matchup. The clash between the CityHawks' stout defense and the Captains' potent offense promises to be an enthralling battle. The CityHawks will aim to stifle the Captains' offensive firepower, while the Captains will look to exploit any weaknesses in the CityHawks' defense.

Ultimately, the outcome of this hypothetical game will depend on execution, key plays, and the ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities. The CityHawks' home-field advantage and rested roster give them an edge, but the Captains' resilience and playmaking ability cannot be underestimated.

Sunday, June 25, 2023 - 6:30PM
Las Vegas @ Los Angeles
Line: - 4.0 LA
O/U: 48.5
Win Pct: 61.2% LA

The LA Express find themselves hosting the Las Vegas Outlaws. These two teams are division rivals, having split victories during the regular season. The Express enter the game with the advantage of a bye week, earned through their top-seed status in the Western Conference. On the other hand, the Outlaws arrive in this game after a dominant performance in the Wildcard round, defeating the Kansas City Buffaloes by a resounding score of 44-0.

The LA Express, known for their high-powered offense and formidable defense, enter the matchup as the favorites. Their top-seed status and the week of rest have provided them with an opportunity to regroup and fine-tune their game plan. Led by their skilled coaching staff, the Express aim to capitalize on their strengths and exploit any weaknesses in the Outlaws' defense.

The Las Vegas Outlaws, however, cannot be underestimated. Their decisive victory in the Wildcard round showcased their potential and the ability to dominate their opponents. Having split victories with the Express during the regular season, the Outlaws are well aware of their division rivals' playing style and strategies. This familiarity could work in their favor, as they look to pull off an upset on the road.

As the game unfolds, fans can expect a highly competitive and intense matchup. The Express' explosive offense, led by their talented playmakers, will aim to break through the Outlaws' defense. Conversely, the Outlaws' offense, fueled by their recent success and backed by a strong running game, will look to control the tempo and keep the Express' offense off the field.

The outcome of this game will likely come down to execution, game management, and key moments. The Express' home-field advantage and favoritism, combined with their desire to make a deep playoff run, give them an edge. However, the Outlaws' recent momentum, familiarity with their opponents, and the potential for an upset make this matchup intriguing and unpredictable.

As football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate this playoff clash, they can expect a thrilling contest between the LA Express and the Las Vegas Outlaws. With division pride at stake and a ticket to the next round on the line, both teams will leave it all on the field in pursuit of postseason glory. Brace yourselves for an electrifying display of skill, strategy, and passion as these division rivals go head-to-head in the playoffs.

I do love how you make the storylines for each game. I do appreciate the excellent work. Birmingham is always an underdog, but I like being an underdog. It gives us the motivation to prove everyone wrong.

Tough game for us this week. The matchup with LA is just tough for us, but we just need another explosive quarter, and keep that defense going.

Of all games, even though it's not the biggest line, I feel like LA has the best chance of winning out of anyone this week, but we've beat them before, so we can do it again!

Over the last couple of weeks, our defense has come into play time and time again. Including a game-winning fumble in week 17 against Baltimore to secure the #1 seed in the Eastern Conference. We have already beaten Jacksonville earlier this year and we are looking to move forward in the playoffs, if we win this game, we have a chance to either go to the famed Gridiron Bowl or Redemption Bowl. Even if we lose, I am proud of what this team has accomplished over this season. What a ride it has been!

The enemies of our enemies are our friends. Toronto is our big division rival, so I'm gonna have to pull for the Owls. and Jacksonville knocked us out last week, so I'm going to have to root for the City Hawks. In the end though, may the best teams win!

Lets goooooooo. We almost blew that game, but the defense stepped up and gave us the win. For the first time in the GSL, Birmingham is heading to the conference championship.

Appleman20 wrote:Lets goooooooo. We almost blew that game, but the defense stepped up and gave us the win. For the first time in the GSL, Birmingham is heading to the conference championship.

Apparently, the Owls Head Coach read my preview. Despite Toronto's talented roster, their quarterback proved to be the team's Achilles' heel. Congratulations to Birmingham for advancing and shocking the world once again!

Appleman20 wrote:Lets goooooooo. We almost blew that game, but the defense stepped up and gave us the win. For the first time in the GSL, Birmingham is heading to the conference championship.

Hope to see you there! I'm ready for a rematch! :]

Side note: post 100!!!

CarterB2 wrote:

Appleman20 wrote:Lets goooooooo. We almost blew that game, but the defense stepped up and gave us the win. For the first time in the GSL, Birmingham is heading to the conference championship.

Hope to see you there! I'm ready for a rematch! :]

I want a Rematch so badly. Good luck tomorrow.

Quarterback play was not our problem. When you score 30 points at home you expect to win. Collectively we scored 68 points in our 2 playoff games , more than enough to win. The D displayed a level of porosity that is unprecedented in imaginary football . 72 points given up in 2 playoff games , both at home. This was from , supposedly, a top notch defense. Just brutal , but we will return with a new look and a new attitude next season.

Curtis wrote:Quarterback play was not our problem. When you score 30 points at home you expect to win. Collectively we scored 68 points in our 2 playoff games , more than enough to win. The D displayed a level of porosity that is unprecedented in imaginary football . 72 points given up in 2 playoff games , both at home. This was from , supposedly, a top notch defense. Just brutal , but we will return with a new look and a new attitude next season.

GG Toronto. Yall played great. Gave us a scare in Birmingham.

Dang, I hope the CityHawks don't lose as badly as my favorite baseball team (the Colorado Rockies, 25-1, that's the baseball equivalent of like 72-7 in football).

Couple of good games so far.
The Western Conference away teams keep on winning, which means Salt Lake actually has a chance to host the Western Conference Championship if my Outlaws can pull through.

CITYHAWKS MOVING ON

Austin Snelick wrote:Couple of good games so far.
The Western Conference away teams keep on winning, which means Salt Lake actually has a chance to host the Western Conference Championship if my Outlaws can pull through.

Outlaws vs Trappers

sounds like a Spaghetti Western that someone forgot to make.

Perfect setup for a Wild Wild West setup