Having spent three years in the broadcast booth critiquing every single throw of each quarterback, Tony Cork will throw caution to the wind and make his monumental return to the field for Cork Bowl 12.  Following a record-setting game in Cork Bowl 8, Cork left the game while on top, but now he returns for yet another season.  “I can play,” emphatically said Cork.  “I’ve wanted to play the last few years but couldn’t, but I have no doubts that I can still play.”

Cork, at 55, will be the oldest player to ever appear on the Corklestick field.  His last action came in Cork Bowl 8 nearly four years ago when he completed a record 51 passes for 18 touchdowns in the Lemurs 142-126 win.  He was questioned before that game as well, but silenced the critics with his performance.  “We have complete confidence in him to lead our team,” responded teammate and son Patrick Cork.  “He’s shown in the past that he’s a highly accurate passer and he’s not going to make mistakes to hurt the team.  I wouldn’t want anyone else leading us into this game.”

Cork ranks first all-time in completion percentage by connecting on 60% of his tosses.  He has only thrown 2 interceptions in 108 attempts for his career – a miniscule 1.8%.  He has been very outspoken of other quarterbacks from his perch in the booth and now must play huge to secure his spot in Cork Bowl history among the top throwers of all-time.  “He hasn’t proven he can produce year in and year out,” replied opposing QB Willy Truitt.  “You have to do that to be a great Cork Bowler.”  “After his criticisms of past QB’s, he better play well or I’m gonna make it a very long day for him on the field,” answered color commentator Kirby Newell.

Cork will surely be blitzed heavily throughout the game, and is not the most mobile of quarterbacks.  “We’ve got to protect him and keep the pressure to a minimum,” added Patrick.  “Kevin and Josh are going to have to slow down the Hartebeest rush and give him time.  If he has time to throw, he’ll pick apart their secondary all day.”  He must move the chains and lead the Meerkats on long drives.  With little threat of the deep ball, he’ll have to use short, high percentage passes to be effective.  He should be helped in this area with the emergence of the "Old Coast Offense" the Meerkats plan to feature.  With his accuracy, if the Meerkats are able to slow down the blitzes of the Hartebeests, Cork could challenge his own completions record of 51 this year.  Defensively, Cork has been somewhat of a liability in the past totaling only 2 tackles in his three games, but plans to be a bigger factor this year.  “I’m going to guard Tomlinson this year and I’m going to shut him down,” boasted Cork.  If he’s able to defend Tomlinson effectively like everyone else has in the past, it could free up Kevin Ryan or Josh Williamson to provide some pressure on the QB. 

FANTASY PROJECTION:	54-for-81, 18 TD, 1 int.
Back to Top	2 tackles

You've heard that statistics lie.  Well, in the case of Willy Truitt, the numbers simply speak for themselves.  Far and away the most accomplished quarterback Cork Bowl has ever seen, Truitt is looking to continue his current hot streak.  His 223 completions are nearly 100 more than the next QB, and his 86 touchdowns nearly double the amount of the 2nd best passer.  Having won 3 straight Cork Bowls, Truitt sees no reason why he can't make it four in a row.  "We've got virtually the same team we had last year, so there are no uncertainties coming in," answered Truitt.

A model of consistency, you can go ahead and mark down 40 more completions for Willy this year.  Amazingly, Truitt has had nearly identical numbers for the past 4 years (46-69; 35-62; 44-71; 41-77).  Since throwing 5 interceptions in Cork Bowl 7, he has not thrown more than 2 in a game since.  He's averaged 15 1/2 TD's per game since Cork Bowl as well.  "He's definitely got the best numbers.  That's obvious," remarked Patrick Cork.  "But now he's winning games and leading his team."

Although Truitt had another solid game last year, he struggled mightily in the first half going only 17 of 34 with 5 TD's and posted his lowest number of touchdowns in a game in five years. "We played him better than we ever had before," remarked Chris Cork.  "Their defense won that game - not Willy Truitt."  In fact, Truitt only led his offense to 91 points in the game, while the defense posted 23 points.  Some attribute the sloppy conditions to the erratic play.  "He's never been a bad-weather QB," added Patrick.  "That's really the only blemish on his career. He didn't play well in the rematch in '98 in the rain, and he was all over the place early in the game last year.  If it's rainy or snowy, I like our chances a lot better than if it's nice weather."

"I think if we can keep him off balance and surprise him with some pressure, we can get some turnovers or force some quick throws," added Josh Williamson.  "If we can force a few punts and get some interceptions, we'll be in great shape with our offense. We have to force him to make a mistake because he's not going to make one on his own."  

Defensively, Willy has played a lot of safety the past few years, but has also matched up in man-to-man frequently.  He has picked off 6 passes in 7 games, and could see himself guarding Kevin Ryan most of the game.  The last time Truitt matched up on Ryan he picked off 2 passes in Cork Bowl 10.  If Greg Howard decides to bring pressure, Willy and Ryan Tomlinson must pick up Williamson and Kevin Ryan in coverage.  They must play tight man-to-man because if Greg rushes, there will be no help for the corners covering Chris and Patrick.  Having Williamson or Ryan running free across the middle all game could be disastrous for the Hartebeests.

FANTASY PROJECTION:	44-73, 16 TD, 3 int.
Back to Top	6 tackles

When you set a record for receptions and touchdowns in a game, and hold the opposing receiver to just 4 catches in 100 minutes of play, it’s hard to find room for improvement, but Patrick Cork sees one big problem with last year’s game.  “We didn’t win,” answered Cork Bowl’s all-time leading receiver.  “When it comes down to it, you have to win.  Plain and simple. Losing is unacceptable.”

In what was one of the best individual efforts in Cork Bowl’s storied history, Patrick fought off double coverage all game and caught a record-tying 24 passes for a record 8 touchdowns.  He also held Greg Howard to just 4 receptions for the game.  However, the individual numbers didn’t lead to victory.  “Like I said last year,” added Cork.  “It doesn’t matter what you do if your team loses.  I’d trade all those catches in to have another ring in a heartbeat.”

Patrick has averaged an amazing 20 receptions a game over the past four years, including two games with 24 catches.  “I love throwing to him,” replied Tony Cork.  “He never drops anything and he has a knack for getting open.  He’s got one of the surest set of hands I’ve ever seen.”  Cork has four of the top 6 receiving games of all-time, but he is on his 3rd quarterback in as many years.  However, he thinks his chances of adding another championship to his resume are very good.  “With Coach back at QB, we have a great chance to score a lot of points,” remarked Patrick.  “He, Chris and I are always on the same page, so there will be fewer mistakes than last year.  The 3-headed Cork Monster promises to be a powerful force once again.  Having won 3 straight times before last year, you forget what it feels like to lose.  Now I remember and don’t want to feel that way again.”  Patrick will have a solid group of receivers with him, including a pair of tight ends – Kevin Ryan and Josh Williamson.  “They are crucial to our success on offense,” claimed Patrick.  “If they can produce, it will take a lot of the pressure off of Chris and me.” 

Defensively, Patrick had his worst game statistically last year finishing with just one tackle, but did what he intended to do.  “I wanted to take Greg completely out of their game plan,” added Cork.  “And I did.  It’s hard to get tackles when your guy never catches the ball.”  Howard was held to just 4 receptions in the game – all short touchdown grabs.  “Although I took one of their offensive threats out of the game, I wasn’t able to force any turnovers like I had in the past.  That’s a big part of my defense is stripping the ball away and picking off passes.  We can’t expect to hold them on downs every drive.”  Cork will likely return to guarding Reggie Truitt this year and hopes to have similar success in minimizing his production.  When it comes down to it, Patrick must continue to be the go-to-guy on offense and be the recipient of the bulk of the Meerkat passes if they want to win. 

FANTASY PROJECTION:	19 receptions,  6 TD
Back to Top	8 tackles, 1 forced fumble

If you scan the career stats, only one name appears in the top 5 in all offensive categories and that name is Reggie Truitt.  Arguably the most diverse player in the game, Truitt has completed 135 passes and caught 42 more.  He's the all-time leader in tackles and ranks third in interceptions.  However, there is one thing that has always been questioned and that is whether or not he can be a team leader.  "Last year he boasted that since Kirby had retired it was his time to shine," remarked Patrick Cork.  "But he didn't step up and lead his team - a rookie did.  He played a good game, no doubt, but if he wants to go from good to great, he has to have a dominate game."

In his first full game at receiver since Cork Bowl 8, Truitt caught 12 passes but only found the endzone one time.  In fact, Truitt has only 11 touchdowns altogether, ranking him 7th on the all-time list, just barely ahead of Ryan Tomlinson.  "You've got to have desire to score touchdowns in Cork Bowl," remarked Kirby Newell.  "Reggie's desire has been a question mark for a number of years."

He definitely has the quickness to find open spots in the secondary, and he's faster than either Chris or Patrick so he can create a number of matchup problems .  However, Truitt hasn't been able to be create havoc consistently throughout the game. "He's got good hands and he's very quick, but he still hasn't had that one game that stands out in your mind," added Patrick.  "There's no doubt that Reggie has to be the man," remarked Willy Truitt.  "I have to be able to look his way when I need a big play.  He's just now getting re-adjusted to the receiver role after QB'ing for a while, so I think this year will be his best."

Defensively, Truitt played one of his better games statistically finishing with 11 tackles and 2 interceptions last year, however he was also the defender on the majority of Patrick Cork's 24 receptions.  "He's never been able to handle Patrick," snapped Chris Cork.  "I mean he played cornerback for the mighty Maroons in the glory days of the mid '90's, yet he can't lockdown a cross country runner?  He had to have been better back then.  If not, it really makes you worry about the state of RHS football..." 

Not only does Reggie get things done on the field, but he has been responsible for most of the defensive game-planning over the past 3 seasons, including last year's Bandicoot defense that surrendered just 98 points.  As always, he will be a main component of the Hartebeest offense and defense.  In his second consecutive year as a full-time receiver for brother Willy, expect Reggie to put up his best numbers yet.  He must step up and be the go-to receiver.  "You have to be the guy that demands the ball in crunch time if you're gonna be a star," added Newell.  "As long as Reggie has been a part of Cork Bowl, he is due to have a huge game."

FANTASY PROJECTION:	14 receptions, 4 TD
Back to Top	11 tackles, 1 interception

Just four years ago he was the most feared receiver in Cork Bowl.  But coming into Cork Bowl 12, Chris Cork is almost an afterthought.  “Anyone who overlooks Chris is crazy,” snapped brother and fellow Meerkat receiver Patrick Cork.  “I hope the Hartebeests do overlook him because he’s still capable of catching 15 passes in a game – at least.”

Having averaged 17 receptions a game from Cork Bowl 6 through 8, including a then-record 22 grabs in Cork Bowl 6, Cork has failed to reach double digits for each of the past three years including a career low 7 receptions last December.  Is he on the downside of a brilliant career?  “I’m older, slower, weaker, more out of shape…..and I’m STILL always open,” boasted Cork.  “I didn’t go out on many patterns last year because I had to help out our pathetic offensive line, but you can expect me to be hauling in passes regularly again this year.”

”Chris has always been a team player,” added Patrick.  “Last year he spent probably 70% of the game blocking so there’s no way he could have put up good numbers.  Once we finally started sending him out, he caught about 4 or 5 passes in the 4^th quarter alone.  He may never catch 22 passes in a game again, but I also don’t think you’ll see another game in the single digits.” 

Cork’s height and long arms have played a huge factor down near the goal line, and earned him the nickname: King of the Red Zone.  With Tony Cork back behind center, look for Chris to be the go-go-guy when the Meerkats approach the endzone.  In Cork Bowl 8, Tony Cork’s last action, Chris caught a career-high 7 touchdown passes.  “I definitely look for him down there,” responded Tony Cork.  “He’s got great hands and I’d be silly not to try to find the big fella when we need a score.”

Although Jeff Henney won the MVP last year, it wasn’t because of his offensive production.  Chris played well on Henney all game allowing 12 catches and 4 touchdowns – the lowest offensive output for any MVP.  He added 10 tackles and yet another interception, so for those who see him fading on offense, his defense is still excellent.  His 12 interceptions are easily the most of any Cork Bowler and he has picked off a pass in 3 consecutive games and 5 of the past 6.  “He’ll get another this year too,” added Patrick.  “He’s too good not to.”  Expect a return to form on offense with 10-15 catches and another solid effort on defense.  He must contain Henney and not allow the big play on “D” to allow the Meerkats to hang with the Hartebeests.

FANTASY PROJECTION:	12 receptions,  5 TD
Back to Top	10 tackles, 1 interception

For weeks leading up to Cork Bowl 11, everyone was wondering:  What's the skinny on Jeff Henney?  When the game was over, the "skinny on Henney" was that he was the MVP of the game as a rookie.  Henney came up huge for his team and surprised the entire league, including himself with his success.  "To accomplish my dream of winning a championship AND being named MVP was something I thought was beyond consideration," said Henney following Cork Bowl 11.  "I'd be lying if I told you I didn't want to do it again this year though."

Expectations will be much higher than they were last year for Henney, so it remains to be seen how he will handle being his team's leader.  His 12 catch, 3 interception game was the best rookie performance since Josh Yargus in Cork Bowl 7 (Yargus hauled in 17 passes and also returned 3 interceptions for touchdowns).  "I knew that he'd be a much bigger factor than most people thought," replied Patrick Cork.  "But I don't think any of us were expecting him to make that many big plays.  He was just in the right place at the right time, and took advantage of our mental mistakes."  Henney will be surrounded by virtually the same team as a year ago with only one roster change (Tomlinson), and he hopes for similar results.

Henney wasn't tested much on defense last year due to the high amount of blitzes the Bandicoots ran, but will surely find himself one-on-one with Chris Cork this year.  He did well against Chris last year when challenged, and will have to limit Chris's catches this year as the Meerkats will be looking for a more balanced offensive attack.  "Chris is one of the legends of the game," added Henney.  "I look at matching up with him as an honor as well as a challenge."

Henney snuck his way onto the scene last December, but there will be no surprises this year.  He became a favorite target of Willy Truitt as the game went on, and with an entire year to get comfortable with each other, it will only help the Hartebeest offense this year.  Henney was more of a possession receiver as a rookie, but look for him to try to make some plays farther down the field and stretch the coverage of Chris Cork.  He will have to produce another good game offensively with double digit receptions, and needs to be able to shadow Chris all over the field on defense.  If Henney can neutralize Chris, there will be a lot of pressure on Tony Cork to find another go-to receiver to go along with Patrick.

FANTASY PROJECTION:	12 receptions, 5 TD
Back to Top	9 tackles, 1 interception

For the first time in six years, Cork Bowl was without Josh Williamson last year.  “We missed him a ton,” remarked Commissioner Patrick Cork.  “He has a certain energy about him that raises the level of play for everyone.  Plus he’s awesome in pregame shows!”  Williamson missed last year’s contest due to a college internship program, but will return to the field ready to play.

Williamson was absent for the first time since his debut in Cork Bowl 5.  Always a defensive force, he had begun to put together a string of very good offensive performances before his absence last year.  After totaling only 18 catches in his first four seasons, Williamson hauled in 10 passes each in Cork Bowl 9 and 10, and proved to be much more sure-handed than in previous seasons.  “I’m a defense-first kind of guy – no doubt,” remarked Williamson.  “But I’ve learned that if you don’t produce on offense as well, you’re not going to win games.  No great Cork Bowl player has ever been one-dimensional.”

Still, Williamson thrives on the defensive side of the ball.  The all-time sacks leader with three, he has been hounding opposing quarterbacks for the past 4 seasons.  He’ll probably find himself matched up man-to-man on Greg Howard this year who will be looking to rebound from a sub-par offensive game last year.  But that’s fine with Williamson.  “I don’t care who I guard,” he responded.  “Just put me on the field and let me play.”  “He attacks on defense as well as anyone in the game,” remarked Ryan Tomlinson.  “He flies to the ball and is as sure a tackler as there is.  He doesn’t just tackle people – he punishes them.”

Williamson will likely be an integral part of protecting Tony Cork as well.  “We’ve got to give him time to throw,” added Williamson.  “It’s going to be up to me and Kevin to provide the protection so he can find Chris and Patrick downfield.  I’ll get my catches, but I’ve got to keep Coach healthy first.”  Williamson must give Tony Cork time by blocking Greg Howard when he blitzes.  If Howard is able to pressure Cork and force him into making quick throws, the Meerkats will have little hope of winning the game.  If they are able to protect him in the pocket, the Meerkat receivers should put up huge numbers and Williamson should be the recipient of double-digit passes yet again.  If Williamson can prove to be a sure-handed outlet receiver, he could wreak havoc underneath.  “If Greg blitzes, either Willy or Tomlinson will have to pick me up in pass coverage,” added Williamson.  “If that’s the case, the Hartebeests may get tired of seeing the back of my jersey as they chase me downfield.”

FANTASY PROJECTION:	11 receptions,  3 TD
Back to Top	10 tackles, 1 sack

Despite the high point totals and impressive offensive statistics put up in Cork Bowls, defense still plays a key factor in each year's outcome.  Last year's game showed that more than any other as the Bandicoots hounded the Ermine for four quarters of play.  Most of that pressure was provided courtesy of Greg Howard.

Howard had a career-high 14 tackles in the game, and although he didn't record a sack, he disrupted things in the backfield throughout the game.  "It seemed like every play he was in our backfield," replied new teammate Ryan Tomlinson.  "Our offense just spun its wheels all game."

"Defense wins championships," remarked Howard.  "Fans love the offensive nature of this game, but when you get down to it, the team that's able to stop their opponent wins.  With only one player rushing the quarterback, I find it only fitting that I be assigned to that duty.  Just because Coach Cork is 87 years old doesn't mean I will take it easy on him either."

Howard had his worst offensive performance since his rookie season last year, hauling in only 4 passes - although all were for short touchdowns.  "I haven't focused as much on offense as I used to," added Howard.  "Don't get me wrong - I still plan on being a force on offense, but my main energy will be on the other side of the ball.  If you're a Meerkat you're going down - plain and simple."

"We can't allow Greg into our backfield," remarked Kevin Ryan.  "It's up to me and Williamson to protect Coach and give him time to find the open man.  All he needs is a few seconds and he'll be fine."

Howard will most likely need to catch more than 4 passes this year if the Hartebeests are going to win Cork Bowl 12.  Having been hounded last year by Patrick Cork, he should be able to create more offense this year with a smaller Josh Williamson providing coverage.  If he can pull in 10 passes and continue to provide the defensive pressure he is becoming known for, the Meerkats could be in for a long day.  Howard's knack for finding the endzone will be important when the Hartebeests approach the goal line. Over the past three years, Howard has caught 25 passes with 17 going for scores. "He seems to be Willy's favorite target near the goal line," added Chris Cork. Undoubtedly the fittest player in the game, Howard's endurance has played a major role late in games allowing him to put up great numbers in the 4th quarter, and he will surely be a factor late in the game this year as well.

FANTASY PROJECTION:	12 receptions, 5 TD
Back to Top	10 tackles, 1 sack

After five years of experiments and advanced game-planning, Kevin Ryan finally broke through in Cork Bowl 11.  The answer:  Get him the ball in space and let him go. Either that or have Tomlinson try to guard him…Ryan had rotated from receiver to quarterback for each of the last two years, and never found consistent offensive production.  Although his passing numbers were solid (36-for-68 with 15 touchdowns and just 3 interceptions), he never felt completely comfortable throwing the ball downfield.  His receiving was solid (41 receptions in 6 games), but never quite what he wanted.  That is, until last year.  Ryan exploded in Cork Bowl 11 with a career high, and team-leading, 13 receptions and 4 touchdowns – including a phenomenal 4^th quarter that consisted of 6 catches and 3 touchdowns.  “He completely dominated us in the second half,” replied current teammate Patrick Cork.  “We had no answer for him.  I’m glad he’s on our side this year.  Hopefully he can build on what he accomplished last December.”

Ryan was a bruiser for much of his career, but has shed the extra pounds and is much quicker than in previous years.  “I’ve really focused my training on getting faster without losing my strength and power,” answered Ryan.  “Now I don’t have to run over people, I can run around them too.”  The leaner look has proven effective as much on defense as anything else.  Ryan recorded his first interception last year and added 1 ½ sacks and an interception as well. 

Ryan will be a part of history this year as he joins Josh Williamson in the two tight end set the Meerkats will feature as part of the "Old Coast Offense".  It is the first time a team has gone with two tight ends on offense.  “Having two tight ends, our offense isn’t going to be explosive, but it is highly effective,” added Ryan.  “With Coach at QB, we're not going to be looking for a lot of homerun balls down the field.  We have to make catches and do something after the catch.  Having two tight ends is great because we can work the middle of the field and really open things up for Chris and Patrick outside.”  As a tight end, Ryan will also have to help Williamson slow down any Hartebeest blitzes.  “Josh and I will take care of their rush,” replied Ryan.  “You don’t have to worry about that.  Coach will have all the time he needs to find the open man.”

With the Cork brothers covering Henney and Reggie Truitt, and Tony Cork taking Tomlinson, Ryan will likely find himself playing a lot of safety or rushing the passer.  He’ll need to roam the middle of the field making tackles and breaking up passes.  He will be instrumental in the ball control offense of the Meerkats with his blocking as well as his receiving.  Dropped passes must be at a minimum.  If Tony Cork gets protection, expect another solid game for Kevin in the low double-digits in catches.

FANTASY PROJECTION:	12 receptions,  4 TD
Back to Top	6 tackles

Five years ago Cork Bowl thought they yet another rising star.  His 11 catch, 2 touchdown performance helped lead the Rovers to victory in Cork Bowl 7, however since that game, people are wondering: Where have you gone Ryan Tomlinson?  Since his rookie year, Tomlinson has averaged less than 5 catches a game and was picked apart by Kevin Ryan on defense last year.  "I don't care what people say about me," replied Tomlinson.  "I'm still a factor in the passing game.  I plan on returning to my rookie form this year."  That last comment is beginning to sound like a broken record, and many around Cork Bowl are wondering if Tomlinson will ever show the promise he showed 5 years ago.

Tomlinson's longevity has allowed him to move into 8th place on the all-time receptions list, and he's actually been rather sure-handed the last couple of years.  "He's not been bad," commented Patrick Cork.  "But he hasn't been a factor either.  You have to provide some sort of threat to the defense or they won't pay attention to you.  Eventually even your quarterback loses confidence in you as well."  

One thing that could be a positive sign for Tomlinson this year is the reported defensive approach of the Meerkats.  The 'Kats are supposedly looking at having Tony Cork match up on Tomlinson, so if he were ever going to step up and silence the critics, now would be the time.  "If he can't get open with an 80 year old man covering him, he shouldn't be playing in Cork Bowl," snapped Kirby Newell.  "If he doesn't have a huge game with Coach on him, he'll never have the respect of the other players...not that he does now anyway, but..."

Defensively, Tomlinson was abused by Kevin Ryan last year.  Whether it was because of his forthcoming nose-job, or a sprained knee he claims to have suffered in the 3rd quarter, he simply provided too many wide open looks as the game went on.  If the Hartebeests plan on blitzing with Greg Howard, Tomlinson will again find himself on Kevin.  "Last year is in the past," added Tomlinson.  He better have a short memory because if Kevin gets the opportunities he had last year, it could spell disaster with the Meerkats' "Old Coast Offense".  "I'd be lying if I told you we won't be looking for ways to attack him," replied Patrick Cork.  "If we can get Josh or Kevin one-on-one in the open field on Tomlinson, our offensive plan will be a success."

The only question mark on an otherwise rock-solid team, Tomlinson has to provide some sort of production either on offense or defense.  If he doesn't catch many passes, and he can't cover any Meerkat receivers, the Hartebeests will be playing short-handed all game and may have to scramble offensively and defensively.  An ineffective Tomlinson could eliminate the Hartebeets pass-rushing plan as well.  "Whichever team scores the most points is going to win...probably," added R.T.

FANTASY PROJECTION:	7 receptions, 2 TD
Back to Top	2 tackles