Super Bowl VIIII

So it's happened, the biggest upset in CTDB history and it basically encapsulates what's been happening this entire decade for us. The Chunky Monkeys romp their way to the playoffs, with a roster brimming with talent, and then get upturned somehow. Meanwhile, Gang Green churns along with a roster devoid of any top tier superstars and manages to just keep winning baby. Last week we talked about Team of the Decade? There can be no question anymore, it's Green Team, with two Super Bowl wins, an excellent overall wins record, and a huge heads up matchup record against the Monkeys. Is it any coincidence that kryptonite is green? I doubt it, since Greg's team has managed to turn a five win regular season into a championship. In fact, Gang Green slip slopped their way into the playoffs on the heels of four losses and managed to get hot at the right time, and played three playoff opponents who scored less than 90 points each week. Remember, the four leaf clover is also green!

So yeah, the Superman-esque Monkeys came out flat, losing 88-111. That's all there is to say. Chris Johnson was his usual stellar self with 142 rushing yards and a touchdown, and star receiver Anquan Boldin continued his good play with 15 points. That's all the highlights the Monkeys had. His big move at the quarterback position, from Peyton Manning to Vince Young, resulted in one less point, even though Manning only played a half of a game -- scoring nine pts. Late season sensation Jamaal Charles piled up another fine week with 124 yards combined but was actually outpointed by LaDanian Tomlinson (18 to 13), who turned in two touchdowns from the bench. And key Monkeys' contributor Mike Sims-Walker collapsed with two points, scoring less than both the kicker and the defense.

But even as Evan pulled an absolute clunker, Greg still needed to play the game and take advantage of a tremendous opportunity. Gang Green's stars really showed up this week in full force. QB Matt Schaub has been on a tear lately and continued his (playoff) MVP performance with a 24 point showing, following 29 and 22 points in his previous games. With Schaub as the steady rudder for this squad, Greg has been able to boom and bust with the rest of his roster. Last week, Thomas Jones crapped out with five points. This week he had only low single digits heading into the fourth quarter but then pounded his way to a touchdown and over one hundred yards as the Greenies ground out the clock. Critics may say that Randy Moss doesn't try all the time but he always shows up in big games, scoring three huge touchdowns to put up a tremendous 24 points. The trade for Mr. Moss a few years ago has resulted in a premiere performer for Greg and launched him to both of his Super Bowl victories.

And you don't become a champion without making all the right moves. Heading into the weekend, Greg had Hines Ward lined up as he was looking to go run and shoot. After seeing Evan start out strong on Thursday night with Charles Johnson, Vince Young, and Nate Kaeding (who totaled 38 pts), he made the switch from Ward to running back sensation Jerome Harrison. Good move? How about 148 yards and a touchdown for Harrison, totaling 18 points, versus just five for Hines? That thirteen points made a difference, giving Greg breathing room for the eventual victory. Whew. Sidney Rice's 14 points on Monday night was just the cherry on top of a great weekend for Gang Green.

With possible rule changes in the near future, Greg's stunning victory and playoff run might be the capper to an incredible first cycle for CTDB. Clearly establishing himself as the team and GM of the decade, Greg can no longer be overlooked for accolades and cheers. So Greg, it's true, you're the best around!