Oxford Commas: A Brutal Stretch Completed

Oxford emerged from the bye week at 2-2, hoping for a shot at the playoffs. But standing in their way were two teams that also needed wins. Yes, there are two posts blurred into one here. You get what you pay for.

The first team on the schedule called itself Cromartie's Kids, named after this unfortunate example of human hyper-procreation. I doubt they'll be getting child support. Anyway, Cromartie's Kids were sporting a spotless record, and they were not about to relinquish it. Oxford fell behind early, and could not get into the end zone until a second half touchdown by Brian. Later, Iain scored his first of the year on a broken play that was virtually identical to this play from last year. But by then--stop me if you've heard this before--it was too late. Cromartie's illegitmates walked off with the 44-19 victory. Oxford walked off with this:

The following week, the Commas faced their old nemesis Hot Little Hands. Of course, the word "nemesis" is a little strong, for it suggests that we've actually beaten them before this game. We haven't, and we needed to in order to stay alive. Unfortunately, HLH managed to jump out to a 20-0 lead by halftime. Oxford kept it close with some long drives and an interception by Brian, but a touchdown by HLH to end that half really drove a stake in their hearts. After the break, Brian scored two touchdowns, while Max, David, and Jon added some big catches. Michelle caught a ball that was mere inches out of the end zone, nullifying a score that would have put the Commas within striking distance. Despite a valiant effort by the defense to hold HLH to 8 points in the second period, Oxford still fell 28-12.

And so, once again, they will be playing for pride in Game 7. Luckily, team MVP Jon hosted a rum-and-cider/pumpkin pie party afterward to make everything better. Meanwhile, HLH drank overpriced Bud Light at the Bar from Hell to "celebrate." Ha.

I'm not sure how inspirational this clip of the week of the week will be, but it is appropriate, given the tough stretch we have endured. (I'm about three steps away from being this guy.)

Thanks to Christine for the highlights from Game 6:

A short pass to Brian:

Brian with another catch. "Is he in? Is he in?" Yes.

Michelle and Max box in the receiver:

Max breaks free for the reception. The initial fuzziness is indicative of how I see the field, by the way.

I feel like Christine cleaned this up a little, but Max ended up spread-eagled, pinning the man he was defending against the wall. His explanation is that he "slipped." Okay, Max.