The stage is set for the HLC Fantasy Football Championship, and the stakes couldn’t be higher. The Austin Tourists and New Mexico Lobos are gearing up for what promises to be a clash of legacies, narratives, and possibly a few backup quarterbacks. For the Lobos, this is familiar territory—championship appearances are practically a tradition for the team that’s been a finalist every year since the league’s inception in 2022. With one title already under their belt and a runner-up finish last year, the Lobos are seasoned contenders. Meanwhile, the Tourists have finally broken through after back-to-back third-place finishes, entering the big game with the underdog energy that has defined the second half of their season.

The Lobos punched their ticket to the final by edging out the East Division champion Jaybirds, 270 to 257, in a semifinal nail-biter. Jalen Hurts, CeeDee Lamb, and Ja’Marr Chase carried the team over the finish line, but the win came at a cost. Hurts left the game with a concussion and is questionable for the final, leaving the Lobos without a backup quarterback on the roster until they hit the waiver wire. Rookie wideout Zay Flowers is also questionable with a shoulder injury, adding to New Mexico’s concerns. However, with their deep roster and league-best defense—allowing the fewest points all season—the Lobos remain a formidable opponent, ready to give Austin’s offense a serious challenge.

On the other side, the Tourists aren’t here to make up the numbers. They bulldozed their way into the final with a 323 to 234 thrashing of the top-seeded Rockport Leatherheads. Josh Allen, James Conner, and A.J. Brown delivered masterclass performances to lift Austin to its first-ever championship game. But, of course, it wouldn’t be fantasy football without a cloud of uncertainty hovering over the final. Allen suffered a hand injury in the semifinals and is listed as questionable. If he can’t go, the Tourists will start rookie Jayden Daniels, whose breakout performances this season have been promising, though untested on the championship stage. Injuries to running backs James Conner and Isaac Guerendo further complicate matters, but with Derrick Henry and Josh Jacobs ready to go, Austin still has backfield weapons to deploy.

The Tourists and Lobos split their regular-season series. In Week 4, Austin edged New Mexico 125-117 in a hard-fought contest. When the two met again in Week 11, the Lobos bounced back in dominant fashion, winning 161-108. With a championship on the line, the rubber match promises to be a thriller.

While the spotlight shines on the championship, the rest of the league isn’t taking it easy. The Jaybirds and Rockport Leatherheads, the league’s top two regular-season teams, face off in a clash for third place. Both squads posted impressive 10-4 records and boast powerhouse rosters. For the Jaybirds, who narrowly missed the championship after falling to New Mexico, it’s a chance to cap off their stellar season on a high note. Meanwhile, the Leatherheads, who led the league in scoring during the regular season, are determined to bounce back after a tough loss to Austin. With pride and the final spot on the podium at stake, this battle for the bronze promises to be a thrilling, high-scoring showdown.

In the Consolation Ladder, the Michiana Muskellunge and i2³∑π will face off in what’s been dubbed a battle for redemption. The Muskies’ regular season was a disaster—1-13, if you’re keeping count—but Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, and their defense have turned things around in the playoffs. Meanwhile, the Robots, led by Justin Jefferson and Chuba Hubbard, squeaked past the Troubadours in the first round and are eager to prove their mettle. Both teams are looking to build momentum for next season.

The final Consolation matchup pits the San Antonio Tacos against the Tortilla Flats Troubadours. For the Tacos, Baker Mayfield and Malik Nabers have been bright spots in an otherwise inconsistent season. The Troubadours, led by Lamar Jackson and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, are coming off a heartbreaking first-round loss and will be looking to end the year on a high note. While there’s no championship at stake, both teams have plenty of pride to play for.

As another unforgettable season nears its conclusion, all eyes are on the championship game. Can the Tourists complete their Cinderella run and claim their first title? Or will the Lobos cement their dynasty with a second championship? Injuries, depth, and resilience will all play a role in deciding who lifts the trophy. One thing’s for certain: no one’s going down without a fight.

Good luck to everyone in the final two weeks of the 2024 season, and may you all have a Merry Christmas and happy new year!