Hoosier Longhorn Confederacy (HLF) Preseason Report: New Mexico Lobos Early Favorites to Repeat

After a wild Labor Day draft, the Hoosier Longhorn Confederacy (HLF) is poised for another electrifying season. Our preseason report delves into last year’s standings, the highlights of the 2023 draft, and the early[1]season predictions.

Champs Eying a Repeat

 In the HLC inaugural season, The New Mexico Lobos, emerged as the 2022 champions, setting a high bar for the competition in the league. Team owner Dave Allison, renowned for his strategic acumen, is determined to defend his title with a formidable roster featuring Jalen Hurts, Ja’Marr Chase, and Jahmyr Gibbs. Asked if he felt pressured by the high expectations of his team, Dave’s answer was confident, and somewhat Zen: “No pressure here. All is as it should be.”

Draft Day Thrills

The 2023 HLF Draft unfolded with all the drama and unpredictability that fans have come to expect. Notably, The i 2^3 ∑ π, owned by Kate Dean, secured the coveted first overall pick and opted for Justin Jefferson, the dynamic wide receiver from the Minnesota Vikings. However, the New Mexico Lobos wasted no time, selecting Ja’Marr Chase, the electric wideout from the Cincinnati Bengals, as their second overall pick.

Meanwhile, Grady Fowles of the San Antonio Tacos went to a QB early, making Patrick Mahomes, the quarterback sensation from the Kansas City Chiefs, their top choice. The Tortilla Flats Troubadours, led by Rich Wills, didn’t hold back either, choosing Christian McCaffrey and his versatility as their cornerstone.

Nick Allison’s Austin Tourists secured Travis Kelce, the elite tight end from the Kansas City Chiefs, with their fifth overall pick. Asked about his team’s choice to take a tight end so early in the draft, Mr. Allison said, “It was a gamble passing on Ekeler and Cupp, but at the end of the day, I just hope everyone has fun and stays safe out there.”

 

Photo: Lobos Look to Capitalize On Successful Draft; Owner Dave Allison seeks second title in as many years.

Ronnie Stanton’s Leatherheads drafted Austin Ekeler, the versatile running back from the Los Angeles Chargers, with their sixth overall pick. Ekeler’s ability to excel both on the ground and through the air adds a dynamic dimension to the Leatherheads’ offense. Rumor has it that the Leatherheads had planned to take RB Nick Chubb first, but the team’s owner was late for the draft because he was “dealing with these jokers at work.” Mr. Wills, owner of the Troubadours dismissed Mr. Stanton’s excuses, stating, “Sounds like a set up for getting you butt kicked… just saying.”

The Jaybirds, led by Jay Dean, bolstered their squad by selecting Cooper Kupp, the electrifying wide receiver from the Los Angeles Rams, as their seventh overall pick. Kupp’s combination of speed and hands makes him a potent offensive weapon. Kyle Dean’s Michiana Muskellunge rounded out the top eight with an explosive choice, Tyreek Hill, the speedy wide receiver from the Miami Dolphins. The day was not without controversy, with Michiana Owner Kyle Dean expressing concerns that the draft “was rigged.” An independent investigation found no signs of tampering or collusion.

Preseason Predictions Unveiled

As the dust settles from the draft, it’s time to assess the early-season projections for the 2023 HLF campaign. The Lobos – with Jalen Hurts and Ja’Marr Chase are undisputed early favorites to defend their championship, but the Jaybirds, bolstered by the explosive talent of Kupp and QB Joe Burrow , are determined to challenge for the throne. The i 2^3 ∑ π, featuring Justin Herbert, and Nick Chubb promises to be a formidable contender, while the Michiana Muskellunge, led by the lightning-fast Tyreek Hill and QB Lamar Jackson, could be the season’s surprise package.

 The Tacos are looking spicy, boasting the combined firepower of Patrick Mahomes and Derrick Henry. When asked what his strategy was for the 2023 season, after his Tacos fell just short in last year’s championship game, owner Grady Fowles quoted Kevin Costner, saying, “I’m gonna do what’s best for the team,” before turning and walking out of the press conference. The Austin Tourists, with the dependable Travis Kelce and Josh Allen in their ranks, are looking to stay competitive, and hoping they don’t come to regret taking a tight end in the first round. The Rockport Leatherheads are primed for action with TAMU alum Ryan Tannehill manning the ship, while The Troubadours with Christian McCaffrey, Aaron Rodgers, Tyler Boyd amongst their ranks are eager to rewrite their fortunes.

The stage is set, the teams are locked and loaded, and the 2023 promises to be a thrilling ride through the HLF’s sophomore season. Stay tuned for weekly updates… probably.