Monday, January 8th, 2024

Michiana Muskellunge Edge Out New Mexico Lobos 301 to 298 in HLC Championship

Heading into the second half of the HLC Championship Game, it seemed the New Mexico Lobos were poised to clinch their second consecutive title. With a comfortable lead and their key players in top form, victory appeared within grasp. However, the Michiana Muskellunge had a different narrative in mind, defying the odds to script their own historic victory.

Michiana’s comeback was spearheaded by a formidable aerial attack led by QB Dak Prescott, with WRs Tyreek Hill, Amon-Ra St. Brown, and TE Evan Engram each contributing over 20 fantasy points in the latter half. Hill, after a lackluster first half, came alive post-intermission, catching seven passes for 82 yards and a pivotal touchdown. Prescott threw four touchdowns against a single interception. The Muskellunge also demonstrated their ground game prowess, with outstanding second half performances from RBs Saquon Barkley and Breece Hall, the latter racking up an impressive 178 yards and a touchdown.

The Lobos, however, did not relent. WRs CeeDee Lamb and Nico Collins combined for a notable 60 fantasy points, while rookie RB Bijan Robinson added 26 points. Their momentum was hampered by the early exit of star QB Jalen Hurts due to a dislocated finger, contributing just 0.6 points.

Defensively, both teams were evenly matched, each scoring 18 points. Michiana’s defense forced two interceptions and recovered a fumble, while the Lobos matched with two interceptions of their own.

In this intense, back-and-forth battle, Michiana emerged victorious, dethroning the defending champions and lifting the HLC trophy. Despite the heartbreak, New Mexico has much to be proud of and, along with Michiana, is already eyeing the 2024 season.

Post-game, Lobos owner David Allison extended congratulations to the Muskellunge. Michiana’s owner Kyle Dean celebrated the victory but emphasized his team’s ongoing ambition: “It was definitely an upstream battle for the Muskellunge after Hill no-showed in the first half. The Lobos about had us reeled in. We’re going to take today to celebrate this win, then tomorrow it’s on to mock drafts in 2024! Congrats to everyone on another fun season.”

Championship Game MVP Announcement

Typically, the Player of the Week accolade is awarded to the player with the highest total score. In this context, New Mexico Lobos’ WR CeeDee Lamb would have been the obvious choice, having amassed an impressive 75.7 fantasy points in the finale against Michiana. However, in the realm of championship games, the ultimate victory carries significant weight in determining honors.

Thus, the HLC Super Bowl MVP Award is rightfully bestowed upon Michiana Muskellunge’s RB Breece Hall. In a performance that was both relentless and pivotal, Hall carried the ball 50 times, amassing 262 rushing yards and a touchdown. His contribution wasn’t just limited to the ground game; he also caught 11 passes for an additional 54 yards and another touchdown. Ending the game with a total of 56.6 fantasy points, Hall was instrumental in steering the Muskellunge to their inaugural championship victory.

Final 2023 Standings

Action Down The Ladder

While the championship game garnered the most attention, excitement abounded in the other matchups as well. In the 3rd Place Game, the Austin Tourists emerged victorious over the San Antonio Tacos with a decisive 222-187 win. This match showcased the depth of talent in the league, further emphasizing the competitive nature of the HLC.

The battle for 5th place was a nail-biter, with the Jaybirds narrowly defeating the Robots 204-203. This closely contested game underscored the fine margins that often separate victory from defeat in the league.

Meanwhile, the contest for 7th place was just as spirited, seeing the Rockport Leatherheads triumph over the Tortilla Flats Troubadours 215-178. Despite their spirited effort, the Troubadours take home DFL Award, granting them the first pick in next year’s draft. This position, though reflective of this season’s challenges – particularly their challenges with quarterbacks dropping early and often with season ending injuries – offers them a prime opportunity to rebuild and come back stronger in the next HLC season.

Season Wrap-Up and Upcoming Announcements

In the coming week, we will be announcing both individual and team awards, celebrating the outstanding performances of this season. Additionally, details regarding the changes to next year’s league format will be clarified. It’s been an incredible season filled with memorable moments and fierce competition. Congratulations to everyone on their achievements, and here’s to even more success in 2024! Best of luck to all teams and players in the upcoming season!

Weeks 17-18 Top Performers

Congrats to the 2023 HLC Champion Michiana Muskellunge!