Rules and Posting

[Cherie]

[image error]
There are 2 ways to play:

Option 1: Fans on the Sidelines
Duration: Start anytime and take 5 months to complete
Rules:
•Choose your favorite team (or 2 or 3) and complete all of the tasks for that team. Teams and tasks can be found here.
•Books must be at least 150 pages long
•Any genre is ok unless specified in the task
•Any format is ok
•Re-reads are ok as long as you actually re-read the whole book.


Option 2: Players on the Field
Duration: 9/5/12 - 2/3/13
This option is a friendly competition. The object is to get as many points as possible. Here's how:
•Take a look at the weekly schedule and pick a game for each week (or more than one if you like) and predict which team will win.
•Find the team you predicted will win in this thread and choose one task from that team to complete.
•Post in this thread with your weekly predictions, the task you chose and the book you will read.
•Your prediction and task must be posted before the game you chose begins (on Thursday, Sunday, Monday, etc) but you have until the challenge ends to complete the book.
•Once you have completed your main task you can play for extra points by picking another task from the same team and completing it. These tasks do not need to be chosen ahead of time.
•You can make all of your predictions ahead of time, or decide each week. You decide your strategy.
•Keep a running total of your points. To get the points you must have finished reading the book for that week's game.
•You can look at the schedule and predict ahead of time if you wish.
•The schedule for the playoff games will be posted as it is announced.

Other Notes for Option 2:
•Books for your main task must be at least 150 pages
•Books for extra points must be at least 50 pages. Novellas and short stories and all of those "in-between" series shorts are ok!
•Any genre is ok unless specified in the task.
•Any format it ok
•Re-reads are ok as long as you actually re-read the entire book
•I want this to be fun, not a chore, so I'm going to use the honor system and leave it up to you to keep your own totals. I may copy them to a participants post so everyone can keep track but I'm not going to double check every participant.

Tally your points:
•You complete the task and your predicted team wins the game: Touch Down! 6 points
• You complete the task but your predicted team loses the game: Field Goal 3 points
• After you get either a Touch Down or a Field Goal you can get extra points by completing extra tasks for your team.
______________________________________________________

For example here's a scenario for the first game on Sept. 5:

Week One:
Cowboys @ Giants
I predict that the Giants will win the game.

Task I choose:
3. The Giants were named after the baseball team of the same name when the team was created. The baseball team was named after the giant New York City skyscrapers. Read a book about baseball OR where baseball plays some role in the plot OR with a character who plays baseball.
I will read Calico Joe

For extra points:
6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word GIANTS. The initials do not have to be found in order.
Don't Look Twice by Andrew Gross A and G can both be found in GIANTS

After the game is over I can come back and tally points and update my post with dates I finished the books:

Task I choose:
3. The Giants were named after the baseball team of the same name when the team was created. The baseball team was named after the giant New York City skyscrapers. Read a book about baseball OR where baseball plays some role in the plot OR with a character who plays baseball.
I will read Calico Joe = 9/22/12

For extra points:
6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word GIANTS. The initials do not have to be found in order.
Don't Look Twice by Andrew Gross = 10/12/12
A and G can both be found in GIANTS

Giants Won!
Field Goal = 6 points
Extra Point = 1 point
Total points = 7 pts
______________________________________________________

This may sound complicated but it's really not, I promise! If you have any questions please let me know

You may post your picks and a reading list if you like but don't start reading until August 29, 2012. That's one week before the first scheduled game on Sept. 5.

[Cherie]

Players on the Field


Adele
Ashley
Ashley CW
Barb
Barbara
Brianna
Chaitra
Christie
Hettie
Jackie
JenniferJ
Kathryn CA
Kris
Leslie
Lindsay
Steph Ann

[Cherie]

Fans on the Sidelines


Adele
Alison
Ashley CW
Barbara
jaxnsmom
Kathryn CA
olivia
Rebecca
Sue
Teresa

[Kris]

I love football and am going to give this challenge a try. I choose option 2. (I hope I'm supposed to post my choice here)

Option 2: Players on the Field
Duration: 9/5/12 - 2/3/13
______________________________________________________

WEEK 1
Rams@Lions:
My Prediction: LIONS

Task: 6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word LIONS. The initials do not need to be found in order.
Untamed by Stephanie Laurens - 9/18

Extra Point Task: 2. The official team colors are Blue, Silver, Black and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
In the Woods by Tana French-9/6


Detroit Wins...barely
Touchdown / Field Goal = 6
Extra Point = 1
Total points = 7

___________________________________________________

WEEK 2
Texans @ Jaguars
My Prediction: Texans

Task: 8. They won a Division championship (AFC South) in 2011. Read any book published in that year.

Extra Point Task: 6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word TEXANS. The initials do not have to be in order.
Tangle of Need by Nalini Singh

Houston Wins
Touchdown / Field Goal =
Extra Point =
Total points =

____________________________________________________

WEEK 3
Chiefs @ Saints
My Prediction: Saints

Task: 8. They won the Super Bowl Championship in 2009. Read any book published in that year.
The Weight of Silence by Heather Gudenkauf -9/22

Extra Point: 1. The Saints are based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Read a book set in Louisiana.

Saints Lose
Touchdown / Field Goal = 3
Extra Point =
Total points =

____________________________________________________


WEEK 4
Bears @ Cowboys
My Prediction: Cowboys

Task: 7. The Cowboys were established in 1960. Read a book by any author born in that year.
Middlesex by Jeffery Eugenides

Extra Point: 2. The official team colors are Navy, Silver and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.

Cowboys lose
Touchdown / Field Goal =
Extra Point =
Total points =

____________________________________________________

WEEK 5
Titans @ Vikings
My Prediction: Vikings

Task: 1. The Vikings are based in Minnesota. Read a book set in the state of Minnesota.

Extra Point: 7. The Vikings were established in 1961. Read a book by any author born in that year.
The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde


Touchdown / Field Goal =
Extra Point =
Total points =

____________________________________________________

WEEK 6
Bills @ Cardinals
My Prediction: Cardinals

Task: 2. The official colors are Red, Black and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.

Extra Point: 6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word CARDINALS. The initials do not need to be found in order.


Touchdown / Field Goal =
Extra Point =
Total points =

____________________________________________________

WEEK 7
Jaguars @ Raiders
My prediction Raiders


Touchdown / Field Goal =
Extra Point =
Total points =

____________________________________________________

WEEK 8
49ers @ Cardinals
My Prediction: 49ers



Touchdown / Field Goal =
Extra Point =
Total points =

____________________________________________________

WEEK 9

WEEK 10

WEEK 11

WEEK 12

WEEK 13

WEEK 14

WEEK 15

WEEK 16

[Cherie]

You posted in the right place Kris! I'll be joining in with Option 2 also once I figure out my picks.

[Kris]

Cherie wrote: "You posted in the right place Kris! I'll be joining in with Option 2 also once I figure out my picks."

I think I am going to start by making my picks one week at a time. With my history of football picks I'll be scoring field goals on a regular basis.

[Cherie]

lol! Me too! I usually read while hubby watches the games. My strategy is going to be to have him make my predictions. :) I'm going to make my picks one or two weeks at a time,

[Cherie]

Week 1

Dallas Cowboys @ New York Giants

My Prediction: Giants

8. The Giants won Super Bowl Championships in 1986, 1990, 2007 and 2011. Read any book published in one of these years.
The Scorpio Races by Maggie Stiefvater
______________________________________________________

Week 2

Arizona Cardinals @ New England Patriots

My Predicion: Patriots

1. The Patriots are based in New England so read a book set in any New England State: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont
Set in Vermont:
House Rules by Jodi Picoult


Point Totals:
Week 1: ??
Week 2: ??
Extra Points: ??
Grand Total: ??

[~Leslie~]

I love football and this is a great way to combine my love of football and reading at the same time. Great Challenge!! I think I will post each week with my picks. We'll see how it goes.

[~Leslie~]

Duration: 9/5/12 - 2/3/13

Option 2: Players on the Field

POINTS: 36

WEEK 1:7 points
(view spoiler)[
PATRIOTS WON!
TASK: Their colors are Red, White and Blue so read a book with a cover that is primarily red, primarily blue, primarily white, or any combination of the three.
Born of Ice 9/26/12 ***1/2 stars
Extra - Point Task:Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word PATRIOTS.
Space In His Heart 9/15/12 **** stars

POINTS: 6 + 1= 7 (hide spoiler)]
______________________________________
WEEK 2: 7 points
(view spoiler)[
PACKERS WON
TASK: The official team colors are Dark Green, Gold and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
Dark Magic 9/24/12 **** stars
Extra - Point Task:Read any book whos author's initials can be found in the word PACKERS.
Cape Storm(Rachel Caine) 9/5/12 **** stars

POINTS: 6 + 1= 7 points (hide spoiler)]
____________________________________________________
WEEK 3: 4 points
(view spoiler)[
49ERS LOST
TASK Read a book set in the state of California.
Bonds of Justice 9/29/12 ***** stars
Extra-point Task:Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
Show No Mercy 9/22/12 ****1/2 stars

POINTS: 3 + 1= 4 (hide spoiler)]
____________________________________________________
WEEK 4: 7 points
(view spoiler)[
RAVENS WON
TASK Their colors are Black, Purple, Metallic Gold and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of both.
Burning Lamp9/16/12 **** stars
EXTRA POINTRead a book published in 2000.
Judgment in Death 9/18/12 ***** stars

POINTS: 6 + 1= 7 (hide spoiler)]
___________________________________________________
WEEK 5: 4 points
(view spoiler)[
JAGUARS LOST
TASK Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word JAGUARS. Lord of the Wolfyn(Jessica Anderson) 9/20/12 ****stars
EXTRA POINTTRead any book published in 2012
Lover Reborn 9/13/12 ***** stars

POINTS: 3 + 1= 4
Sub-Total: 29 (hide spoiler)]
___________________________________________________
WEEK 6: 7 points
(view spoiler)[
FALCONS WON
TASK: Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word FALCONS Mind Game 10/10/12 ***** stars
Extra-Point: Read a book set in the U.S. state of Georgia.Sugar Rush 10/3/12 *** stars

Points: 1 + 6= 7 points (hide spoiler)]
____________________________________________________
WEEK 7: 7 points
(view spoiler)[
TEXANS WON
TASK:Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word TEXANS. Play of Passion 10/21/12 **** stars
Extra-Point: Read any book published in 2011 Maggie for Hire 10/19/12 *** stars

Points 6 + 1= 7 (hide spoiler)]
____________________________________________________
WEEK 8: 4 points
(view spoiler)[
SAINTS LOST :={
TASK: Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word SAINTS Devoured by Darkness 10/12/12 ***1/2 stars
Extra-Point: Read a book whose cover is primarily Gold, Black or White Betrayal in Death 10/17/12 **** stars

Points: 3 + 1=4 (hide spoiler)]
____________________________________________________
WEEK 9: 1 point
Colts vs. Dolphins
COLTS WON
TASK: The official team colors are blue and white. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of both. A Kiss at Midnight
Extra-Point Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word COLTSGabriel's Ghost(Linnea Sinclair) 10/20/12 **** 1/2 stars

Points 1 +
____________________________________________________
WEEK 10: 6 points
Jets vs.Seahawks
SEAHAWKS WON
TASKThe official colors are Navy, Light Green, Gray and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them. Kiss of Snow 11/23/12 *****stars
Extra - PointThey won a conference championship in 2005. Read any book published in 2005.Heart of the Dragon

Points:6 +
_____________________________________________________
WEEK 11: 7 points
(view spoiler)[
COWBOYS WON
TASK: The Cowboys are based in Dallas, Texas. Read a book set in the state of Texas.The Sweethearts' Knitting Club 12/7/12 *** stars
Extra-Point Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word COWBOYS.A Race to Splendor(Ciji Ware) 10/25/12 **** stars

Points 1 + 6= 7 (hide spoiler)]
____________________________________________________
WEEK 12
Broncos vs. Chiefs
BRONCOS WON
Task:The logo and mascot are both a horse so read a book where a horse or horses play a major role.
A Rogue's Proposal
Extra Point:They won Super Bowl championships in 1997 and 1998. Read any book published in one of those years.
Heart of a Knight
Points:
_____________________________________________________
WEEK 13: 7 points
Panthers vs. Raiders
PANTHERS WON
Task:The official team colors are Black, Blue, Silver and White. Read a book with a cover that is primarily one of these colors Rapture 12/1/12 **** stars
Extra Point:They won the NFC Conference championship in 2003. Read any book published in that year.
The Iron Rose11/21/12 **** stars

Points: 6 + 1=7
______________________________________________________
WEEK 14: 4 points
Cardinals vs. Seahawks
CARDINALS LOST
Task:Read a book where the main character wears a uniform Seduction in Death 11/18/12 **** stars
Extra Point:The official colors are Red, Black and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
I Burn for You 11/16/12 **** stars

Points: 3 + 1 = 4 POINTS
_____________________________________________________
WEEK 15
Redskins vs. Browns
REDSKINS WON
Task:Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word REDSKINS.Mariana(Susanna Kearsley)
Extra Point: The official team colors are Burgundy, Gold and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of these.
Stolen Heat
Points:
_____________________________________________________
WEEK 16
Colts vs. Chiefs
Prediction:COLTS
Task:The official team colors are blue and white. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of theseNo Proper Lady
Extra Point: The Colts won championships in 1958, 1959, 1968, 1970 and 2006. Read any book published in one of those years.
Touch the Dark
Points:
_____________________________________________________
WEEK 17
Panthers vs. Saints
Prediction: SAINTS
Task:The Saints are based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Read a book set in Louisiana.
Extra Point:They won the Super Bowl Championship in 2009. Read any book published in that year.
Hunting Julian
Points
_____________________________________________________

[Cherie]

Thanks for joining us Leslie!

[Ashley]

Okay, I am going to be a fan on the sidelines for my beloved Steelers. AND be a Player on the Field. I just won't overlap the books. #challengewhore

OPTION 1.
Duration: 9/5/12 - 2/3/13
7/8

1. Read a book set in the state of PA. Showtime 1/10

2. Black, Gold and White. Stained 1/27

3. Victorian era - The Girl in the Steel Corset 12/31

4. Character whose name matches HOF players: John Henry Johnson, John Stallworth -
John - Grave Witch 9/11

5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.
Dermontti Dawson- Dark Descendant 11/26

6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word STEELERS.
Robin LaFevers- Grave Mercy 10/24

7. The Steelers were established in 1933.

8. They won the Super Bowl in 2008. - Storm Born 12/17



OPTION 2

Predictions/Tasks
Week 1 - Giants - published 2011- The Demon Trapper's Daughter 9/7
Extra Point- published in 2011- Never Knowing 9/29



Week 2- BENGALS! - Black, Orange and White - Undead and Unfinished 9/13
Extra Point- Author born in 1968- Kelley Armstrong - Darkest Powers Bonus Pack 9/13



Week 3- Broncos- Initials in BRONCOS- Rachel Caine- Two Weeks' Notice 9/18
Extra Point- Initials in BRONCOS- Rachel Caine- Windfall 9/26



Week 4- RAVENS!- Read Edgar Allan Poe- Masque of the Red Death, The Raven, Anabel Lee, The Tell-Tale Heart, The Bells from The Poe Reader 10/22
Extra Point- Purple Cover- The Last Echo 10/13



Week 5- Cardinals- Red & Black Cover- Vamped 10/2
Extra Point- Man in Uniform- The Fireman Who Loved Me 10/18



Week 6- FALCONS!- Set in Georgia- Soul Weaver 10/7
Extra Point- Red, Black, Silver Cover- Anna Dressed in Blood 10/3



Week 7- GIANTS!- Blue, Red, White Cover- Bloodshot 10/17
Extra Point- Published on 2011- Daughter of Smoke & Bone 10/27



Week 8- Vikings- Set in Minnesota- Undead and Undermined 11/5
Extra Point Purple Cover- Primal Pleasure 9/13



Week 9- TEXANS!- Book with Star in the title- Days of Blood & Starlight 11/15
Extra Point- Set in Texas- Bitter Blood 1/28



Week 10- STEELERS!- Victorian Era- Leviathan 1/17
Extra Point Matches Player Initials DD- Dancing in the Dark



Week 11- SAINTS!- Black & Gold Cover- Viridis 11/16
Extra Point- Author Initials in SAINTS- Alyson Noel- Everlasting 12/26



Week 12- Chargers- Character who loves to shop- Undead and Unstable 12/10
Extra Point- Set in California- A Mind is a Terrible Thing to Read 1/20



Week 13-COLTS!- Blue & White Cover- Holy Smokes 12/14
Extra Point- Horse Character- The Iron Daughter 12/5



Week 14- 49ers!!- Red/White Cover- Girl of Nightmares 12/11
Extra Point- Red/Gold Cover- A Study in Scarlet 1/23



Week 15- BRONCOS!!- Orange or Blue Cover- Must Love Dragons 12/28



Week 16- PACKERS!!- Author Initials in PACKERS- Eternal Vows by Chrissy Peebles 1/24



Week 17- REDSKINS!!!!!- Author initials in REDSKINS- Just Listen 12/29
Extra Point- Red/Gold Cover- A Study in Scarlet 1/23



Points
1. FG + Extra= 4
2. TD + Extra= 7
3. FG + Extra= 4
4. TD + Extra= 7
5. FG + Extra= 4
6. TD + Extra= 7
7. TD + Extra= 7
8. FG + Extra= 4
9. TD + Extra= 7
10. TD + Extra= 7
11. TD + Extra= 7
12. FG + Extra= 4
13. TD + Extra= 7
14. TD + Extra= 7
15. TD = 6
16. TD = 6
17. TD + Extra= 7

Total= 102 points

[~Leslie~]

Who Dat, Baby!! I'm still a little confused over when to read books and when to pick tasks. I'm so OCD that things like that bother me LOL And I just want to pick the Saints every week! Is it okay to pick the same team on different weeks? Would you then do a different task?

[Cherie]

Lol Leslie. You can pick the same team every week if you want. You just don't get as many points when they lose. You could do the same task over and over if you want to too. It's totally up to you.

As for posting - you have to post your prediction before the game for that prediction starts each week. You can post all of your predictions for the season at once or you can post them each week before the games start. It's up to you.

As for choosing tasks and reading the books, you can do that anytime you want during the football season. You can only collect points for the tasks/books that are completed before the season ends on Super Bowl Sunday.

So, you can make your predictions each week and then take as long as you need to to read the corresponding books as long as they are completed by the end of the NFL season.

I hope that makes sense... Personally, I'm going to try to read a book a week to keep up with my predictions but that is not required. It's totally up to you.

[Barbara ★]

This is the coolest challenge. I'm not much on football but I'm going to give it a try anyway. I'm going to do both options.

Option 2: Players on the Field
Duration: September 5, 2012 - February 10, 2013

Week 1: Cowboys vs Giants COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Giants
Winner Dallas (24-17)

✔Task #4 Raise The Titanic! - Clive Cussler (m.c. Mel / Mel Donner) FINISHED 9/7
Extra Points
✔Task #2 - - Sarah MacLean (white cover) FINISHED 9/9
✔Task #8 - Fifty Shades Darker - E.L. James (pub 2011) FINISHED 10/5

Points Week 1 = 3 (FG) + 2 (extra) = 5
_____________________________________________________

Week 2: Ravens vs Eagles COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Eagles
Winner Eagles (24-23)

✔Task #2 - Eowyn Ivey (white cover) FINISHED 9/12
Extra Points
✔Task #5 Beauty Tempts the Beast - Leslie Dicken (used Bob Bell) FINISHED 10/25
✔Task #7 - Hungry As The Sea - Wilbur Smith (born 1933) FINISHED 1/27

Points Week 2 = 6 (TD) + 2(extra) = 8
Total Points = 5 + 8 = 13
_____________________________________________________

Week 3: 49ers vs Vikings COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Vikings
Winner- Vikings (24-13)

✔Task #6 Secret Life of a Vampire - Kerrelyn Sparks (K&S in Vikings) FINISHED 9/21
Extra Points
✔Task #1 - Night Sins - Tami Hoag (set in Minnesota) FINISHED 11/12
✔Task #7 - Master of Fire - Angela Knight (born in 1961) FINISHED 12/9

Points Week 3 = 6 (TD) + 2 (extra) = 8
Total Points = 13 + 8 = 21
_____________________________________________________

Week 4: Browns vs Ravens COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Browns
Winner Ravens (23-16)

✔Task #2 - Catherine Coulter (orange cover) FINISHED 9/26
Extra Points
✔Task #5 - First Lord's Fury - Jim Butcher (L & F from Len Ford) FINISHED 12/18
✔Task #6 - Fahrenheit 451 - Ray Bradbury (R & B in Browns) FINISHED 10/10

Points Week 4 = 3 (FG) + 2 (extra) = 5
Total Points = 21 + 5 = 26
_____________________________________________________

Week 5: Cardinals vs Rams COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Cardinals
Winner Rams (17-3)

✔Task #2 - Joe Hill (red cover) FINISHED 10/24
Extra Points
✔Task #5 - Blood Challenge - Eileen Wilks (C & B from Charles Bidwell) FINISHED 1/6
✔Task #6 - The Flame and the Shadow - Denise Rosetti (D & R in Cardinals) FINISHED 9/23

Points Week 5 = 3 (FG) + 2 (extra) = 5
Total Points = 26 + 5 = 31
_____________________________________________________

Week 6: Steelers vs Titans COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Steelers
Winner Titans (26-23)

✔Task #2 - - Gaiman/Pratchett (black cover) FINISHED 10/8
Extra Points
✔Task #4 - The White Mountains - John Christopher (used Mike Webster) FINISHED 10/9
✔Task #6 - Ruthless Heart - Emma Lang (E & L in STEELERS) FINISHED 10/17

Points Week 6 = 3 (FG) + 2 (bonus) = 5
Total Points = 31 + 5 = 36
____________________________________________________

Week 7: Seahawks vs 49ers COMPLETE!
My Prediction - 49ers
Winner 49ers (13-6)

✔Task #1 - Secrets to the Grave - Tami Hoag (set in California) FINISHED 10/19
Extra Points
✔Task #2 - - Shanna Swendson (white cover) FINISHED 11/13
✔Task #7 - The 5th Witch - Graham Masterton (born 1946) FINISHED 10/19

Points Week 7 = 6 (TD) + 2 = 8
Total Points = 36 + 8 = 44
_____________________________________________________

Week 8: Buccaneers vs Vikings COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Buccaneers
Winner Buccaneers (36-17)

✔Task #5 - Good Girl Seeks Bad Rider - Vonna Harper (used Ronde Barber) FINISHED 11/1
Extra Points
✔Task #3 - Ship of Destiny - Robin Hobb (about a ship and has pirates) FINISHED 1/4
✔Task #7 - The Darkest Lie - Gena Showalter (born 1976) FINISHED 12/2

Points Week 8 = 6 (TD) + 2 = 8
Total Points = 44 + 8 = 52

_____________________________________________________

Week 9: Lions vs Jaguars COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Jaguars
WinnerL Lions (34-14)

✔Task #6 - Good Morning, Killer - April Smith (A & S in JAGUARS) FINISHED 11/1
Extra Points
✔Task #5 - The Ape Who Guards the Balance - Elizabeth Peters (Tony Boselli) FINISHED 11/30
✔Task #7 - Endlessly - Kiersten White (published July 2012) FINISHED 10/14

Points Week 9 = 3 (FG) + 2 = 5
Total Points = 52 + 5 = 57

_____________________________________________________

Week 10: Giants vs Bengals COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Bengals
Winner Bengals (31-13)

✔Task #1 - The Funhouse - Dean Koontz (set in Ohio) FINISHED 11/17
Extra Points
✔Task #2 - - Patricia Rice (orange cover) FINISHED 11/20
✔Task #5 - The Calling - Kelley Armstrong (born 1968) FINISHED 1/11

Points Week 10 = 6 (TD) + 2 = 8
Total Points = 57 + 8 = 65

_____________________________________________________

Week 11: Bills vs Dolphins COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Bills
Winner Bills (19-14)

✔Task #4 11th Hour - James Patterson (char named Cindy Thomas = Thurman Thomas) FINISHED 10/29
Extra Points
✔Task #5 - In Bed With A Stranger - Mary Wine (Bruce Smith) FINISHED 1/17
✔Task #7 - Midnight Rain - Holly Lisle (born 1960) FINISHED 1/17

Points Week 11 = 6 (TD) + 2 = 8
Total Points = 65 + 8 = 73
_____________________________________________________

Week 12: Redskins vs Cowboys COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Redskins
Winner Redskins (38-31)

✔Task #3 The Demon King - Cinda Williams Chima (N.A. customs are a large part of the plot) FINISHED 10/25
Extra Points
✔Task #5 - Slow Hands - Lauren Bach (Sam Huff) FINISHED 11/7
✔Task #6 - Infamous - Sherrilyn Kenyon (S & K in redSKins) FINISHED 11/29

Points Week 12 = 6 (TD) + 2 = 8
Total Points = 73 + 8 = 81

_____________________________________________________

Week 13: Bengals vs Chargers COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Chargers
Winner Bengals (20-13)

✔Task #2 - - Annette Blair (white cover) FINISHED 11/16
Extra Points
✔Task #5 - Devil's Food Cake Murder - Joanne Fluke (D&F from Fred Dean) FINISHED 11/19
✔Task #7 - Split Second - David Baldacci (born 1960) FINISHED 11/6

Points Week 13 = 3 (FG) + 2 = 5
Total Points = 81 + 5 = 86

_____________________________________________________

Week 14: Broncos vs Raiders COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Raiders
Winner Broncos (26-13)

✔Task #4 - Something About You - Julie James FINISHED 11/17
Extra Points
✔Task #3 - Captured by the Highlander - Julianne Maclaine (set 1716) FINISHED 12/15
✔Task #6 - On Ice - David Ramus (D & R in RaiDers) FINISHED 12/10

Points Week 14 = 3 (FG) + 2 = 5
Total Points = 86 + 5 = 91
_____________________________________________________

Week 15: Bengals vs Eagles COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Eagles
Winner Eagles (34-13)

✔Task #1 - Kiss of Pride - Sandra Hill (set in Pennsylvania) FINISHED 12/11
Extra Points
✔Task #2 - - Jane Green (white cover) FINISHED 11/22
✔Task #6 - Body of Sin - Eve Silver (E & S in EagleS) FINISHED 1/9

Points Week 15 = 3 (FG) + 2 = 5
Total Points = 91 + 5 = 96

_____________________________________________________

Week 16: Vikings vs Texans COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Vikings
Winner Vikings (23-6)

✔Task #1 - Kiss Me Deadly - Michele Hauf (set in Minnesota) FINISHED 11/18
Extra Points
✔Task #2 - - Geralyn Dawson (purple cover) FINISHED 12/18
✔Task #5 - Confessions of a Demon - Laurie Wright (C & D from Chris Doleman) FINISHED 11/28

Points Week 16 = 6 (TD) + 2 = 8
Total Points = 96 + 8 = 104

_____________________________________________________

Week 17: Texans vs Colts COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Colts
Winner Colts (28-16)

✔Task #1 - Mum's the Word - Kate Collins (set in Indiana) FINISHED 12/23
Extra Points
✔Task #3 - Chosen by a Horse - Susan Richards (about a horse) FINISHED 11/10
✔Task #8 - Germ - Robert Liparulo (published 2006) FINISHED 11/14

Points Week 17 = 6 (TD) + 2 = 8
Total Points = 104 + 8 = 112
_____________________________________________________
PLAYOFF GAMES

Week 1 - Vikings @ Packers COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Vikings
Winner Packers (24-10)

✔Task #4 - The Big Over Easy - Jasper Fforde (used in Jim Finks) FINISHED 1/8
Extra Points
✔Task #3 - Ashes to Dust - Yrsa Sigurðardóttir (Iceland) FINISHED 1/22
✔Task #2 - - Suzanne Brockmann (purple cover) FINISHED 1/24

Points Playoff #1 = 3 (FG) + 2 = 5
Total Points = 112 + 5 = 117

_____________________________________________________
Week 2 - Texans vs Patriots COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Patriots
Winner Patriots (41-28)
✔Task #5 - Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mt. Everest Disaster - Jon Krakauer (used Andre Tippett) FINISHED 1/13
Extra Points
✔Task #2 - - P.J. Tracy (red cover) FINISHED 1/19
✔Task #6 - Split Second - David Baldacci (born 1960) FINISHED 11/6

Points Playoff #2 = 6 (TD) + 2 = 8
Total Points = 117 + 8 = 125

_____________________________________________________
Week 3 - Ravens vs Patriots COMPLETE!
My Prediction - Patriots
Winner Ravens (28-13)
✔Task #1 - Absolutely, Positively - Heather Webber (set in Massachusetts) FINISHED 2/5
Extra Points
✔Task #2 - - Carolyn Hart (blue cover) FINISHED 2/3
✔Task #6 - Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore - Robin Sloan (R & S in patRiotS) FINISHED 2/9

Points Playoff #3 = 3 (TD) + 2 = 5
Total Points = 125 + 5 = 130

________________________________________________________
SUPERBOWL - Ravens vs 49ers COMPLETE!
My Prediction 49ers
Winner Ravens (34-31)
✔Task #1 - Q is for Quarry - Sue Grafton FINISHED 1/23
Extra Points
✔Task #2 - - Ronan Bennett (red cover) FINISHED 1/31
✔Task #6 - Lost Love Found - Bertrice Small (published 1989) FINISHED 1/10

Points Superbowl = 3 (TD) + 2 = 5
Total Points = 130 + 5 = 135

[~Leslie~]

Cherie wrote: "Lol Leslie. You can pick the same team every week if you want. You just don't get as many points when they lose. You could do the same task over and over if you want to too. It's totally up to ..."

Cherie, I will just pick the Saints every week and I will not lose!! No I'm not really going to do that, but it would make me happy!!
And I think I'm going to try and do like you - read the book during that week to get my points. Seems much easier!

[Steph Ann]

I'm in for option 2! I'll be very surprised though if I ever pick correctly. :)

Total Points: 88

Week 1

Colts @ Bears

My Prediction: Bears (I'm from Illinois, of course that's who I pick for week 1) :)

Task I Chose:

6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word BEARS. The initials do not need to be found in order.

I read: Living Nightmare by Shannon K. Butcher READ 9/3 ***1/2

Bears Win!
Week 1 Total Points:
Touchdown = 6 pts
________________________________________________________

Week 2

Bears @ Packers

My Prediction: Bears

Task I chose:
5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the hall of fame players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.

I will read: Daughter of Smoke and Bone (using initials DB for Dick Butkus) READ 9/12 ****

Packers won. :(
Week 2 Total Points:
Field Goal = 3 points
___________________________________________________

Week 3
Steelers @ Raiders

My Prediction: Steelers

Task I chose:
5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.

I will read: No Rest for the Wicked (using initials RW for Rod Woodson) READ 10/6 ****

Raiders won (grr)
Week 3 Total Points:
Field Goal = 3 points
_______________________________________________________
Week 4

Giants @ Eagles

My Prediction: Giants

Task I chose:
6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word GIANTS. The initials do not have to be found in order.

I will read: Ecstasy in Darkness by Gena Showalter READ 9/14 ****

For Extra Point:
2. The official team colors are Dark Blue, Red, Gray and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.

I will read: READ 9/16 ****

Eagles won (boo)
Week 4 Total Points:
Field Goal = 3 points
Extra Point = 1 point

________________________________________

Week 5

Chargers @ Saints

My Prediction: Saints

Task I chose:
6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word SAINTS. The initials do not need to be found in order.

I will read: Gunmetal Magic by Ilona Andrews READ 9/24 *****

Saints won!!
Week 5 Total Points:
Touchdown = 6 points
_______________________________________________
Week 6

Patriots @ Seahawks

My Prediction: Patriots

Task I chose:
6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word PATRIOTS. The initials do not need to be found in order.

I will read: The Prophet by Amanda Stevens READ 10/4 ****

Seahawks won
Week 6 Total Points:
Field Goal - 3 points
________________________________________________
Week 7
Packers @ Rams

My Prediction: Packers

Task I chose:
6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word PACKERS. The initials do not need to be found in order.

I will read: Living with the Dead by Kelley Armstrong READ 10/17 ***

Packers won
Week 7 Total Points:
Touchdown = 6 pts
______________________________________________

Week 8
Patriots @ Rams

My Prediction: Patriots

Task I chose:
2. Their colors are Red, White and Blue so read a book with a cover that is primarily red, primarily blue, primarily white, or any combination of the three.

I will read: READ 10/23 ***

Patriots win!
Week 8 Total Points:
Touchdown = 6 pts
___________________________________________________
Week 9
Bears @ Titans

My Prediction: Bears

Task I chose:
5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the hall of fame players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.

I will read: Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me? (Ed Healey) READ 10/29 ***1/2

Bears win!
Week 9 Total Points:
Touchdown = 6 pts
_________________________________________________
Week 10
Texans @ Bears

My Prediction: Bears

Task I chose:
5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the hall of fame players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.

I will read: Fourth Grave Beneath My Feet (George Musso) READ 11/8 ****1/2

Texans won :(
Week 10 Total Points:
Field Goal - 3 pts
___________________________________________________
Week 11
Colts @ Patriots

My Prediction: Patriots

Task I chose:
2. Their colors are Red, White and Blue so read a book with a cover that is primarily red, primarily blue, primarily white, or any combination of the three.

I will read: READ 11/15 ****

Patriots win!
Week 11 Total Points:
Touchdown - 6 pts
________________________________________________

Week 12
Vikings @ Bears

My Prediction: Bears

Task I chose:
2. The official team colors are Navy, Orange and White. Read a book whose color is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.

I will read: Read 11-26 ***

Bears win!
Week 12 Total Points:
Touchdown = 6 pts
_________________________________________________
Week 13
Texans @ Titans

My Prediction: Texans

Task I chose:
6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word TEXANS. The initials do not have to be in order.

I will read: UnWholly by Neal Shusterman Read 12/3

Texans win!
Week 13 Total Points:
Touchdown = 6 pts
_______________________________________________
Week 14
Saints @ Giants

My Prediction: Saints

Task I chose:
2. The official team colors are Gold, Black and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.

I will read: Read 12/6

Giants won
Week 14 Total Points:
Field Goal: 3 pts
___________________________________________________
Week 15
Vikings @ Rams

My Prediction: Vikings

Task I chose:
2. The official team colors are Purple, Gold and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.

I will read: Read 12/10

Vikings won
Week 15 Total Points:
Touchdown - 6 pts
___________________________________________________
Week 16
Bears @ Cardinals

My Prediction: Bears

Task I chose:
2. The official team colors are Navy, Orange and White. Read a book whose color is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.

I will read: READ 12/20

Bears won
Week 16 Total Points:
Touchdown - 6 pts
_________________________________________________
Week 17
Buccaneers @ Falcons

My Prediction: Falcons

Task I chose:
Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word FALCONS. The initials do not need to be found in order.

I will read Bite Me If You Can by Lynsay Sands READ 12/28

Buccaneers won
Week 17 Total Points:
Field Goal - 3 pts
__________________________________________
Playoff Game #1
Bengals @ Texans

My Prediction: Texans

Task I chose:
6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word TEXANS. The initials do not have to be in order.

I will read: Ravenous by Sharon Ashwood READ 1/2/13

Texans won
Points for Playoff Game #1
Touchdown - 6 pts
____________________________________________
Playoff Game #2
Seahawks @ Falcons

My Prediction Falcons

Task I chose:
2. The official team colors are Red, Black, White and Silver. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.

I will read:

Points for Playoff Game #2

_________________________________________--
Playoff Game #3
49ers @ Falcons

My Prediction Falcons

Task I chose:
2. The official team colors are Red, Black, White and Silver. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.

I will read:

Points for Playoff Game #3

_________________________________________
Super Bowl
49ers vs. Ravens

My prediction: Ravens

Task I chose:
4. The Ravens don't have any Hall of Fame players yet so instead here are 5 of their all-time best players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of these players (first or last): Peter Boulware, Matt Stover, Ed Reed, Jonathan Ogden, Ray Lewis

I will read: Samson's Lovely Mortal (for Matt Stover) Read 1/30

Points for Super Bowl Game:

[Cherie]

Welcome Steph Ann! I have a feeling there's going to be a lot of home team support going on. Both of my picks are! Being right in the middle of CT I'm halfway between Boston and New York so I picked the Giants and the Patriots for the first 2 weeks. :)

[Adele]

I am in for this challenge but will need help.
I want to do both options and I have chosen New England Patriots as my team because I am from England

[Cherie]

Ok Adele! Just let me know if you have any questions.

For Option 1 you can use the Patriots and read every task.

For Option 2 you can still choose the Patriots every week and see how they do throughout the season or you can change it up each week if you like. You can also go to NFL.com and get some professional predictions about the games and choose your prediction that way if you want.

[Adele]

Option 1 New England Patriots


1. The Patriots are based in New England so read a book set in any New England State: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont

2. Their colors are Red, White and Blue so read a book with a cover that is primarily red, primarily blue, primarily white, or any combination of the three. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead, my edition has a completely red cover with embossed black roses, finished 20 Sep - 4 stars

3. The logo of the team is a minuteman which was a select group of the colonial militia from the Revolutionary War. Read any book with history or historical fiction listed as a genre on its main page OR a book set during or about the Revolutionary War. Uncle Tom's Cabin Oct 8th

4. The Patriots have 4 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches a hall-of-famer (first or last):
Nick Buoniconti, John Hannah, Mike Haynes, Andre Tippett

5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the above hall of famers and read a book that has words starting with those letters.
Ex: If the initials were J.K. you could use the book With Just One Kiss

6. Read any book whos author's initials can be found in the word PATRIOTS. The initials do not have to be found in order.
Example: Tamora Pierce - the T and P can both be found in Patriots. Grounders by Tom Slone - 27 Sep - 5 stars

7. The Patriots were established in 1960. Read a book by any author born in that year. This list may help. Ian Rankin, The Impossible Dead finished 7 sep , 5 stars

8. They won Super Bowl Championships in 2001, 2003 and 2004. Read any book published in one of those years.

[Adele]

Option 2

Week 1 Start reading on Weds Sep 05

Patriots@Titans

Prediction - Titans to win Prediction wrong

Task 8. The Titan's have League Championships in 1960 and 1961. Read any book published in one of those years. To Kill a Mockingbird. finished 4 Sep 2012

Points for week 1 = 3


Week 2 starting sep 13

Arizona Cardinals @ New England Patriots

Prediction - Patriots to win prediction wrong

Task 2. Their colors are Red, White and Blue so read a book with a cover that is primarily red, primarily blue, primarily white, or any combination of the three. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead finished 20 Sep - 4 stars

Week 2 points total = 3

Week 3 starting 20 September

Patriots @ Ravens
Prediction - Patriots to Win - prediction wrong

Task 6 - authors initials found in PATRIOTS
Grounders, by Tom Slone - T and S in Patriots - completed 27th Sep - 5 stars

Week 3 points total = 3

Week 4
Sunday Sep 30th
Patriots at Bills
Prediction patriots to win - Prediction correct, yippee
Task 1 a book set in Maine
Bonus task 7 - Author born in 1970 - Ian Rankin, The Impossible Dead finished 7 sep 12
week 4 total +1

Week 5
Sunday oct 7th
Broncos at Patriots
prediction Broncos to win
prediction wrong
Task 8 a book published in 1997 or 1998 Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone by J K Rowling first published in 1997 finished 25 Sep - 5 stars

Week 5 total = 3 points

Week 6
Sunday Oct 14th
patriots at Seahawks
prediction patriots to win prediction wrong
task 3 historical fiction
Uncle Tom's Cabin finished 12 Oct
Week 6 points =3

week 7
Jets@patriots
prediction - jets to win
Task 6 - autors initials in JETS -Darkness Falls by Jessica Sorenson

Week 8
Patriots@rams
Prediction - patriots to win
task 4, character name John, The Secret Lives of Codebreakers by sinclair McKay

Total points - 16

[Ashley]

I'm going for Players on the Field!!

Week 1

1.Chargers @ Raiders

My Prediction:

1.Chargers win: YES 22-14

Tasks:

Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word CHARGERS.
Gail Carriger:Soulless (9/6/12)

Touchdown: 6 points
Week One Total: 6 points

Week 2

2.Baltimore Ravens v. Philadelphia Eagles
My Prediction

Ravens Win - Wrong

My Task

7. The Ravens were established in 1996. Since they are a newer team, read any new release (published in the last 6 months).

Week 2 Total: 3 points pending

Week 3

Green Bay v. Seattle
Prediction: Green Bay Packers win - Wrong

My Task
6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word PACKERS. The initials do not need to be found in order.
Example: Paulo Coelho: P and C can both be found in Packers


Week 3 Total: 3 points pending

Week 4 Picks

New York Giants v. Philadelphia Eagles
Prediction: New York Giants win

My Task
8. The Giants won Super Bowl Championships in 1986, 1990, 2007 and 2011. Read any book published in one of these years.

Week 5 Picks
Chicago Bears v. Jacksonville Jaguars

Prediction: Chicago Bears win

Task: 3. The Bears are known as the "Team of the 1940's" because of their 4 NFL Championships and 5 division titles. Read any book set during the 1940's or published in the 1940's.



TOTAL POINTS OVERALL: 12 points pending

[Barb]

Cherie wrote: " Option 2: Players on the Field
Duration: 9/5/12 - 2/3/13
•Post in this thread with your weekly predictions, the task you chose and the book you will read.
•Your prediction and task must be posted before the game you chose begins (on Thursday, Sunday, Monday, etc) but you have until the challenge ends to complete the book."

As long as we don't change our prediction or the task we choose, can we change the book we read for that task? Or are we locked into the book we post initially?

[Barb]

3. The team is named after the bengal tiger which can be found in India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan.

For the Bengals: What's the task that goes with this?

[Cherie]

Barb wrote: "Cherie wrote: " Option 2: Players on the Field
Duration: 9/5/12 - 2/3/13
•Post in this thread with your weekly predictions, the task you chose and the book you will read.
•Your prediction and task ..."

That is correct Barb. You make your prediction and pick your task but you have until the season ends to read the books and you can change your selection up until then.

[Cherie]

Barb wrote: "3. The team is named after the bengal tiger which can be found in India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan.

For the Bengals: What's the task that goes with this?"

Ummm... let me fix that! lol! It's supposed to say to read a book set in one of those countries or written by an author from or residing mostly in one of those countries.

Sorry about that!

[Cherie]

Thanks for playing Adele, Ashley and Sue! I've got you linked up.

[Barb]

My current status, updated January 31:

POINTS: 192, through Super Bowl


WEEK 1: Packers over 49ers
San Francisco 30, Green Bay 22
Week 1 points: 8
#3: Read a book with 2 male main characters.
'Scuse Me While I Kill This Guy, by Leslie Langtry, finished 8/31
EXTRA POINT: #5: Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.
Spin, by Catherine McKenzie, finished 9/12 – - Bart Starr
EXTRA POINT: #5: Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.
Good Hope Road, by Lisa Wingate, finished 12/2 - Robert Hubbard
EXTRA POINT: #6: Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word PACKERS
The Parrot Talks In Chocolate, by Everett Peacock, finished 1/2
EXTRA POINT:#5: Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.
What the Cat Dragged In, by Gilbert Morris, finished 1/8 - Willie Davis
EXTRA POINT:#6: Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word PACKERS
The Body in the Library, by Agatha Christie, finished 1/10


WEEK 2: Steelers over Jets
Pittsburgh 27, New York Jets 10
Week 2 points: 11
#5: Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters
player: Bobby Layne
The Baker Street Letters, by Michael Robertson, finished 9/3
EXTRA POINT: #8: (Steelers) won the Super Bowl in 1974, 1975, 1978, 1979, 2005, 2008. Read any book published in one of these years.
Second Sight, by Philip R. Craig & William G. Tapply, finished 9/12 – published 2005
EXTRA POINT: #5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.
Man in the Blue Moon, by Michael Morris, finished 11/12 - Mel Blount
EXTRA POINT: #2. Their official colors are Black, Gold and White. Read a book whose color is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
The Gingerbread Bump-Off, by Livia J. Washburn, finished 11/28 - gold/yellow cover

EXTRA POINT: #5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters
Not a Creature Was Stirring, by Jane Haddam, finished 12/31 - Chuck Noll
EXTRA POINT: #1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA.
Christmas Memories at Grace Chapel Inn, from Guideposts magazine, finished 1/3


WEEK 3: Broncos over Texans
Houston 31, Denver 25
Week 3 points: 7
#6: Read any book whose author's initials can be found in BRONCOS.
Candy Apple Dead, by Sammi Carter, finished 9/7
EXTRA POINT: #5: Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters. – from list: Shannon Sharpe
Photo, Snap, Shot, by Joanna Campbell Slan, finished 9/17
EXTRA POINT: #6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word BRONCOS.
Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore, by Robin Sloan, finished 10/19
EXTRA POINT: #2. The official team colors are Navy, Orange and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
"A" Is for Apple: More Than 200 Recipes for Eating, Munching and Cooking with America's Favorite Fruit, by Greg Patent, finished 10/21 - white cover

EXTRA POINT: #5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.
Shine Shine Shine, by Lydia Netzer, finished 11/2 - player Shannon Sharpe


WEEK 4: Ravens over Browns
Baltimore 23, Cleveland 16
Week 4 points: 12
#7 – The Ravens were established in 1996. Since they are a newer team, read any new release (published in the last 6 months).
The Time Keeper, by Mitch Albom, finished 9/18 - published September 2012
EXTRA POINT: #5 - Pick a set of initials matching one of the above players and read a book that has words starting with those letters.
The Lifeboat, by Charlotte Rogan, finished 9/28 - Ray Lewis
EXTRA POINT: #7. The Ravens were established in 1996. Since they are a newer team, read any new release.
Foul Play at the Fair, by Shelly Freydont, finished 11/10
EXTRA POINT: #2. Their colors are Black, Purple, Metallic Gold and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of both.
The Giving Quilt, by Jennifer Chiaverini, finished 11/14 - purple cover

EXTRA POINT: #4. The Ravens don't have any Hall of Fame players yet so instead here are 5 of their all-time best players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of these players (first or last): Peter Boulware, Matt Stover, Ed Reed, Jonathan Ogden, Ray Lewis.
The Blind Side: Evolution of a Game, by Michael Lewis, finished 12/19 - name = Lewis
EXTRA POINT: #7. The Ravens were established in 1996. Since they are a newer team, read any new release.
The Last Runaway, by Tracy Chevalier, finished 1/15
EXTRA POINT: #5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the above players and read a book that has words starting with those letters.
Runemarks , by Joanne Harris, finished 1/26 - Ray Lewis


WEEK 5: Texans over Jets
Houston 23, New York 17
Week 5 points: 11
#2 – The official team colors are Red, White and Blue. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
To Sir, With Love, by E.R. Braithwaite, finished 9/1

EXTRA POINT: #7 - The Texans were established in 2002. Since they are such a new team, read any new release (any book published in the last 6 months).
Postcards from the Dead, by Laura Childs, finished 10/4 – was just released on October 2
EXTRA POINT: #1. The Texans are based, of course, in Houston, Texas. Read a book set in the state of Texas.
The Pumpkin Muffin Murder, by Livia J. Washburn, finished 10/28
EXTRA POINT: #2. The official team colors are Red, White and Blue. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
Murder at the PTA Luncheon, by Valerie Wolzien, finished 11/19 - blue cover

EXTRA POINT: #2. The official team colors are Red, White and Blue. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
Armageddon's Children, by Terry Brooks, finished 1/26 - red cover

EXTRA POINT: #7. The Texans were established in 2002. Since they are such a new team, read any new release.
Finding Camlann, by Sean Pidgeon, finished 1/31


WEEK 6: Cardinals over Bills
final score: Buffalo 19, St. Louis 16
Week 6 points: 7
#6 - Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word CARDINALS
Eggs Benedict Arnold, by Laura Childs, finished 10/8
EXTRA POINT: #2 - The official colors are Red, Black and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
Due or Die, by Jenn McKinlay, finished 10/12 – snow scene is much more white on the actual book, red scarf, black dog

EXTRA POINT: #6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word CARDINALS.
Eggs Benedict Arnold, by Laura Childs, finished 9/30
EXTRA POINT: #2. The official colors are Red, Black and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
A Night to Remember, by Walter Lord - finished 11/21 - black cover

EXTRA POINT: #6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word CARDINALS.
Bedeviled Eggs, by Laura Childs, finished 1/5


WEEK 7: Bears over Lions
final score: Chicago 13, Detroit 6
Week 7 points: 10
#2 - The official team colors are Navy, Orange and White. Read a book whose color is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
Love's Winning Plays, by Inman Majors, finished 10/8 – all three colors!

EXTRA POINT: #5 - Pick a set of initials matching one of the hall of fame players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.
Footsteps in the Dark, by Georgette Heyer, finished 10/13 - Dan Fortmann
EXTRA POINT: #5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the hall of fame players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.
Where Men Win Glory: The Odyssey of Pat Tillman, by Jon Krakauer, finished 12/1 - Walter Payton
EXTRA POINT: #5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the hall of fame players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.
Dress Her in Indigo, by John D. MacDonald, finished 12/6 - Dan Hampton
EXTRA POINT: #6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word BEARS
The Phoenix Conspiracy, by Richard L. Sanders, finished 12/30


WEEK 8: Steelers over Redskins
score: Pittsburgh 27, Washington 12
Week 8 points: 11
#8 – They won the Super Bowl Championship in 1974, 1975, 1978, 1979, 2005, 2008. Read any book published in one of these years.
Urchin of the Riding Stars, by M.I. McAllister, finished 10/16 - published in 2005
EXTRA POINT: #8 – They won the Super Bowl Championship in 1974, 1975, 1978, 1979, 2005, 2008. Read any book published in one of these years.
Latte Trouble, by Cleo Coyle, finished 10/9 - published in 2005
EXTRA POINT: #5. Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters.
Death of a Red Heroine, by Qiu Xiaolong, finished 12/15 - Dan Rooney
EXTRA POINT: #2. Their official colors are Black, Gold and White. Read a book whose color is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
Invasive Procedures, by Orson Scott Card, finished 1/15 - black cover

EXTRA POINT: #8. They won the Super Bowl Championship in 1974, 1975, 1978, 1979, 2005, 2008. Read any book published in one of these years.
Crocodile on the Sandbank, by Elizabeth Peters, finished 1/24 - published 1975
EXTRA POINT: #1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA.
Guide to Pennsylvania Troops at Gettysburg, by Richard Rollins, finished 1/28


continued in Message #358

[Cherie]

lol Barb! Thanks for joining us. :)

[Barb]

Cherie wrote: "You make your prediction and pick your task but you have until the season ends to read the books and you can change your selection up until then. "

Thanks, Cherie :) And I guessed that's what you wanted for the Bengals task, but figured I'd better ask for clarification, just in case.

And I forgot to say so earlier, but WOW! You put a LOT of work into this challenge!!

[Cherie]

I'm paving the way for next year. :) I had the idea percolating for a while so I really already knew how I wanted it to work. I wanted it to be even more like fantasy football but I didn't have time this year to put it all together.

It was a lot of work but not as bad as it seems. If you look at the tasks for all of the teams you'll notice that they are all themed the same, just the details differ from team to team. 1 is the team location, 2 is the team colors, 3 has something to do with the logo or name, etc. It was all just a matter of finding the info and luckily there were some good sources out there. I just did lots of typing and had lots of tabs open in my browser. :)

[~Leslie~]

I was thinking it was like a Fantasy Football reading challenge! I love it. I'm such a crazy football fan - I watch both NFL and college! You did a great job with it, Cherie.
Geaux Saints/LSU!!!

[Chaitra]

This is such an awesome challenge that I have to join even though I don't know the A from American Football lol. I've been a lifelong fan of soccer and I cannot reconcile myself to the American version.

I'll go with the player of the field as that's more fun! Luckily for me, my husband's into it. He plays fantasy leagues in various places, so I'm basically depending on him for my predictions. My official post is the next post!

[Chaitra]

NFL 2012

Duration: Aug 29, 2012 - Feb 3, 2013
Points: 81

Week 1: Dallas Cowboys vs. New York Giants

My Pick: New York Giants. Lost.

Task:
The official team colors are Dark Blue, Red, Gray and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them » White.
Skios: A Novel | Michael Frayn ★★★★ (09/01)

Extra Points:
1. Pick a set of initials matching one of the players above and read a book whose title includes words that begin with those letters: Frank Gifford.
The Flight of Gemma Hardy | Margot Livesey ★ (09/05)

2. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word GIANTS » N. G.
Neverwhere | Neil Gaiman ★★★★ (09/07)

3. The Giants have had 18 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of these players (first or last): Harry Carson » Harry Boddicker.
The Inquisitor: A Novel | Mark Allen Smith ★★ (09/12)

4. The Giants won Super Bowl Championships in 1986, 1990, 2007 and 2011. Read any book published in one of these years » 1986.
A Dark-Adapted Eye | Barbara Vine ★★★ (09/14)

5. The Giants were established in 1925. Read a book by any author born in that year. » Yukio Mishima.
Confessions of a Mask | Yukio Mishima ★★ (10/19)

6. The Giants are based in New York. Read a book set in New York City.
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn | Betty Smith ★★ (11/01)

Points: 3 + 6 = 9.

Week 2: Houston Texans vs. Jacksonville Jaguars

My Pick: Houston Texans Won.

Task:
The official team colors are Red, White and Blue. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them » White.
The Right-Hand Shore: A Novel | Christopher Tilghman ★★★★ (09/04)

Extra Points:
The Texans were established in 2002. Since they are such a new team, read any new release (any book published in the last 6 months) » Published in Jun 2012.
This Bright River | Patrick Somerville ★ (09/13)

Points: 3 + 1 = 4.

Week 3: San Francisco 49ers vs. Minnesota Vikings

My Pick: San Francisco 49ers. Lost.

Task:
The 49ers are based in San Francisco, California. Read a book set in the state of California.
Beautiful Ruins | Jess Walter ★★★★★ (09/19)

Extra Points:
1. The official colors are Red, Metallic Gold and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them » White and Red.
Seating Arrangements | Maggie Shipstead ★ (09/19)

2. They won Superbowl Championships in 1981, 1984, 1988, 1989, and 1994. Read a book published in one of these years » Published in 1994.
One For The Money | Janet Evanovich ★★★ (09/20)

Points: 3 + 2 = 5.

Week 4: Oakland Raiders vs. Denver Broncos

My Pick: Denver Broncos. Won.

Task:
The logo and mascot are both a horse so read a book where a horse or horses play a major role.
Out Stealing Horses | Per Petterson ★★★ (09/25)

Extra Points:
1. The Broncos are based in Denver, Colorado. Read a book set in Colorado.
Monument 14 | Emmy Laybourne ★★ (09/18)

2. The Broncos were established in 1960. Read a book by any author born in that year.
Coraline | Neil Gaiman ★★★★ (09/17)

Points: 6 + 2 = 8.

Week 5: Green Bay Packers vs. Indianapolis Colts

My Pick: Green Bay Packers. Lost.

Task: The Packers are based in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Read a book set in Wisconsin.
The Long Earth | Terry Pratchett & Stephen Baxter ★★★★ (09/22)

Extra Points:
1. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word PACKERS. The initials do not need to be found in order » K & A.
True Believers | Kurt Andersen ★★★ (09/28)

Points: 3 + 1 = 4.

Week 6: Pittsburgh Steelers vs. Tennessee Titans

My Pick: Pittsburgh Steelers. Lost.

Task:
Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word STEELERS. The initials do not have to be in order » R & L.
The Round House | Louise Erdrich ★★★★★ (10/05)

Extra Points:
1. They won the Super Bowl Championship in 1974, 1975, 1978, 1979, 2005, 2008. Read any book published in one of these years. » 2008
The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society | Mary Ann Shaffer & Annie Barrows ★★★★ (10/07)

2. Their official colors are Black, Gold and White. Read a book whose color is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them.
The Night Circus | Erin Morgenstern ★★★★★ (10/26)

3. The Steelers logo is based on the Steelmark logo and was created by U.S. Steel Corp. The three diamonds stand for the 3 materials used to create steel: yellow for coal, orange for ore and blue for steel scrap. Read a book with all 3 colors on the cover.
Scoop to Kill | Wendy Lyn Watson ★★★ (11/16)


Points: 3 + 3 = 6.

Week 7: New Orleans Saints vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

My Pick: New Orleans Saints. Won.

Task:
The team became official on All-Saints Day and since there is a large Catholic population in New Orleans the owner thought it only fitting to name the team the "Saints." Read any book with religion as a genre on its main page.
Silence | Shusaku Endo ★★★★★ (09/26)

Extra Points:
1. The official team colors are Gold, Black and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors » Black & White.
NW | Zadie Smith ★★ (11/02)

2. The Saints have had 3 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of these players (first or last): Jim Finks, Rickey Jackson, Willie Roaf » Ricky.
Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy | John le Carré ★★★★★ (11/12)

Points: 6 + 2 = 8.

Week 8: New England Patriots vs. St. Louis Rams

My Pick: New England Patriots. Won.

Task:
The Patriots were established in 1960. Read a book by any author born in that year. » Neil Gaiman.
Fragile Things | Neil Gaiman ★★★★ (10/17)

Extra Points:
1. Their colors are Red, White and Blue so read a book with a cover that is primarily red, primarily blue, primarily white, or any combination of the three » Red.
The Casual Vacancy | J.K. Rowling ★ (10/19)

2. The Patriots are based in New England so read a book set in any New England State: Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont » Maine.
Under the Dome | Stephen King ★★ (11/09)

3. The logo of the team is a minuteman which was a select group of the colonial militia from the Revolutionary War. Read any book with history or historical fiction listed as a genre on its main page OR a book set during or about the Revolutionary War.
The Weed That Strings the Hangman's Bag | Alan Bradley ★★★★★ (11/11)

Points: 6 + 3 = 9.

Week 9: Kansas City Chiefs vs. San Diego Chargers

My Pick: San Diego Chargers. Won.

Task:
The Chargers were established in 1960. Read a book by any author born in that year » Neil Gaiman.
Smoke and Mirrors: Short Fictions and Illusions | Neil Gaiman ★★★★★ (10/18)

Extra Points:
1. The Chargers are based in San Diego, California. Read a book set in California.
Telegraph Avenue | Michael Chabon ★★★★ (11/17)

Points: 6 + 1 = 7.

Week 10: New York Jets vs. Seattle Seahawks

My Pick: Seattle Seahawks. Won.

Task:
The official colors are Navy, Light Green, Gray and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them » Gray.
The Kill Artist | Daniel Silva ★★ (11/04)

Extra Points:
1. The Seahawks are based in Seattle, Washington. Read a book set in the state of Washington.

Points: 6.

Week 11: Cincinnati Bengals vs. Kansas City Chiefs

My Pick: Cincinnati Bengals. Won.

Task:
The team is named after the bengal tiger which can be found in India, Bangladesh, Nepal and Bhutan. Read a book written by an author from one of these countries » Amitav Ghosh.
River of Smoke | Amitav Ghosh ★★★★ (10/21)

Extra Points:
1. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word BENGALS. The initials do not have to be in order » Neil Gaiman.
American Gods | Neil Gaiman ★★★★★ (11/09)

2. The official team colors are Black, Orange and White. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them » Black and Orange.
The Book Thief | Markus Zusak ★★ (11/11)

Points: 6 + 2 = 8.

Week 12: Atlanta Falcons vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

My Pick: Atlanta Falcons. Won.

Task:
The Falcons were established in 1966. Read a book by any author born in that year » Nicola Barker.
The Yips | Nicola Barker ★★★ (11/10)

Extra Points:
1. The official team colors are Red, Black, White and Silver. Read a book whose cover is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them » Black & White.
Black Water | Joyce Carol Oates ★★ (11/21)

Points: 6 + 1 = 7

[Lindsay]

I will Join and Pick my loving hometown Team: Pittsburgh Steelers (Option 2)


Option 2: Players on the Field
Duration: 9/5/12 - 2/3/13
______________________________________________________

WEEK 1
Steelers @ Broncos: (Loss)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 6. Read any book whose author's initials can be found in the word STEELERS. The initials do not have to be in order. Tessa Radley Billion-Dollar Baby Bargain (Billionaires and Babies, #7) - Finished 9/9/12

Total Points: 3
___________________________________________________

WEEK 2
Jets @ Steelers: (Won)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 2. Their official colors are Black, Gold and White. Read a book whose color is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them. - Mostly Black Finished 9/13/12

Extra Point: 1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA. - A Season of Love - Set in Bird in Hand, (Lancaster) Pennsylvania Finished 9/22/12
Total Points:6+1=7
______________________________________________________

WEEK 3
Steelers @ Raiders: (Loss)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA. - The Scent of Cherry Blossoms: A Romance from the Heart of Amish Country - Set in Apple Ridge, Pennsylvania Finished 9/18/12

Total Points: 3
______________________________________________________

WEEK 4
Patriots @ Bills: (Won)
My Prediction: Patriots

Task: 3. The logo of the team is a minuteman which was a select group of the colonial militia from the Revolutionary War. Read any book with history or historical fiction listed as a genre on its main page OR a book set during or about the Revolutionary War. All Things New- It has Historical Fiction list as it Genre. Finished 9/25/12

Extra Point:4. The Patriots have 4 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches a hall-of-famer (first or last):
Nick Buoniconti, John Hannah, Mike Haynes, Andre Tippett A Plain and Simple Heart (Character Name: John) Finished 10/1/12

Total Points: 6+1=7
______________________________________________________

WEEK 5
Eagles @ Steelers: (Won)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 2. Their official colors are Black, Gold and White. Read a book whose color is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them. - It got Golden color with some black Finished 9/28/12

Extra Points:1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA. A Season for Tending - Finished 10/7/12 - Mostly Set in Harvest Mills, PA, but takes bit in Morgansville PA as well. It also Mentions (Lancaster)

Total Points:6+1=7
______________________________________________________

WEEK 6
Steelers @ Titans: (Loss)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task:4 The Steelers have 20 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of the players (first or last): Mel Blount, Terry Bradshaw, Jack Butler, Dermontti Dawson, Bill Dudley, Joe Green, Jack Ham, Franco Harris, John Henry Johnson, Walt Kiesling, Jack Lambert, Bobby Layne, Chuck Noll, Art Rooney, Dan Rooney, John Stallworth, Ernie Stautner, Lynn Swann, Mike Webster, Rod Woodson

A Plain and Simple Heart (Character Name: John) Finished 10/1/12

Total Points: 3
______________________________________________________

WEEK 7
Steelers @ Bengals: (Won)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 1. 4. The Steelers have 20 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of the players (first or last): Mel Blount, Terry Bradshaw, Jack Butler, Dermontti Dawson, Bill Dudley, Joe Green, Jack Ham, Franco Harris, John Henry Johnson, Walt Kiesling, Jack Lambert, Bobby Layne, Chuck Noll, Art Rooney, Dan Rooney, John Stallworth, Ernie Stautner, Lynn Swann, Mike Webster, Rod Woodson A Season for Tending (Character Name: John) Finished 10/7/12

Extra Points:1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA. A Secret Identity - Finished 10/19/12 - Mostly Set in Bird in Hand, PA (Lancaster).

Total Points: 6+1=7
______________________________________________________

WEEK 8
Redskins @ Steelers:
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 4. The Steelers have 20 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of the players (first or last): Mel Blount, Terry Bradshaw, Jack Butler, Dermontti Dawson, Bill Dudley, Joe Green, Jack Ham, Franco Harris, John Henry Johnson, Walt Kiesling, Jack Lambert, Bobby Layne, Chuck Noll, Art Rooney, Dan Rooney, John Stallworth, Ernie Stautner, Lynn Swann, Mike Webster, Rod Woodson Wildflowers from Winter: A Novel - (Character Name: Dan) Finished 10/12/12

Extra Point: 3. The Steelers logo is based on the Steelmark logo and was created by U.S. Steel Corp. The three diamonds stand for the 3 materials used to create steel: yellow for coal, orange for ore and blue for steel scrap. Read a book with all 3 colors on the cover OR read a book set during the Victorian era when the modern era of steel production began. - Finished 10/21/12 - - Most has Orange and a little Yellow and Blue

Total Points:6+1=7
______________________________________________________

WEEK 9
Steelers @ Giants: (Won)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA. A Secret Identity - Finished 10/19/12 - Mostly Set in Bird in Hand, PA (Lancaster).

Extra Point: 4. The Steelers have 20 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of the players (first or last): Mel Blount, Terry Bradshaw, Jack Butler, Dermontti Dawson, Bill Dudley, Joe Green, Jack Ham, Franco Harris, John Henry Johnson, Walt Kiesling, Jack Lambert, Bobby Layne, Chuck Noll, Art Rooney, Dan Rooney, John Stallworth, Ernie Stautner, Lynn Swann, Mike Webster, Rod Woodson - (Character Name: Bill) Finished 10/27/12

Total Points: 6+1=7
______________________________________________________

WEEK 10
Chiefs @ Steelers: (Won)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 3. The Steelers logo is based on the Steelmark logo and was created by U.S. Steel Corp. The three diamonds stand for the 3 materials used to create steel: yellow for coal, orange for ore and blue for steel scrap. Read a book with all 3 colors on the cover OR read a book set during the Victorian era when the modern era of steel production began. A Wreath of Snow: A Victorian Christmas Novella - Finished 10/23/12

Extra Point: 4. The Steelers have 20 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of the players (first or last): Mel Blount, Terry Bradshaw, Jack Butler, Dermontti Dawson, Bill Dudley, Joe Green, Jack Ham, Franco Harris, John, Henry Johnson, Walt Kiesling, Jack Lambert, Bobby Layne, Chuck Noll, Art Rooney, Dan Rooney, John Stallworth, Ernie Stautner, Lynn Swann, Mike Webster, Rod Woodson - (Character Name: John) Finished 10/19/12
Total Points:6+1=7
______________________________________________________

WEEK 11
Ravens @ Steelers: (Loss)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 2. Their official colors are Black, Gold and White. Read a book whose color is primarily one of these colors or a combination of them. - - It is Gold and Black Finished 10/27/12

Total Points: 3
______________________________________________________

WEEK 12

Steelers @ Browns: (Loss)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA. - The Sound of Sleigh Bells: A Romance from the Heart of Amish Country - Set in Apple Ridge, (Lancaster) Pennsylvania - Finished 11/8/12

Total Points: 3
______________________________________________________

WEEK 13
Steelers @ Ravens: (Won)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA. - The Christmas Singing: A Romance from the Heart of Amish Country - Set in Apple Ridge, (Lancaster) Pennsylvania -Finished 11/15/12

Extra Point: 4. The Steelers have 20 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of the players (first or last): Mel Blount, Terry Bradshaw, Jack Butler, Dermontti Dawson, Bill Dudley, Joe Green, Jack Ham, Franco Harris, John Henry Johnson, Walt Kiesling, Jack Lambert, Bobby Layne, Chuck Noll, Art Rooney, Dan Rooney, John Stallworth, Ernie Stautner, Lynn Swann, Mike Webster, Rod Woodson -The Blue Enchantress - (Character Name: Henry) - Finished 11/30/12

Total Points:6+1=7
______________________________________________________

WEEK 14
Chargers @ Steelers: (Loss)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA. - NEW! The Dawn of Christmas (not on Goodreads by itself) - Set in Apple Ridge, (Lancaster) Pennsylvania - Finished 11/18/12

Total Points: 3
______________________________________________________

WEEK 15
Steelers @ Cowboys: (Loss)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 1. The Steelers are based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Read a book set in the state of PA. - Christmas in Apple Ridge: Three-in-One Collection: The Sound of Sleigh Bells, The Christmas Singing, NEW! The Dawn of Christmas - Set in Apple Ridge, (Lancaster) Pennsylvania - Finished 11/18/12

Total Points: 3
______________________________________________________

WEEK 16
Bengals @ Steelers: (Loss)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 4. The Steelers have 20 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of the players (first or last): Mel Blount, Terry Bradshaw, Jack Butler, Dermontti Dawson, Bill Dudley, Joe Green, Jack Ham, Franco Harris, John Henry Johnson, Walt Kiesling, Jack Lambert, Bobby Layne, Chuck Noll, Art Rooney, Dan Rooney, John Stallworth, Ernie Stautner, Lynn Swann, Mike Webster, Rod Woodson -The Red Siren - (Character Name: Henry) - Finished 11/26/12

Total Points: 3
______________________________________________________

WEEK 17
Browns @ Steelers: (Won)
My Prediction: Steelers

Task: 4. The Steelers have 20 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of the players (first or last): Mel Blount, Terry Bradshaw, Jack Butler, Dermontti Dawson, Bill Dudley, Joe Green, Jack Ham, Franco Harris, John Henry Johnson, Walt Kiesling, Jack Lambert, Bobby Layne, Chuck Noll, Art Rooney, Dan Rooney, John Stallworth, Ernie Stautner, Lynn Swann, Mike Webster, Rod Woodson -The Blue Enchantress - (Character Name: Henry) - Finished 11/30/12

Extra Point: 4. The Steelers have 20 Hall of Fame players. Read a book with a character whose name matches one of the players (first or last): John Henry Johnson - Courting Cate - (Character John Treger)
Total Points:6+1=7
______________________________________________________
Season Total: 87 Points
My Predictions Score Key: Touchdown(6)+ Extra Point(1)=Won, Field Goal(3)=Loss/Lose

[Barb]

Leslie wrote: "I'm such a crazy football fan - I watch both NFL and college! "

Right there with you, Leslie, although we have different favorite teams :)

[Barb]

Chaitra wrote: "my husband's into it. He plays fantasy leagues in various places, so I'm basically depending on him for my predictions. "

Sometimes those who know nothing about the game do FAR better than those who do -- or think they do LOL I have a friend who chooses teams in her job's football pool based solely on the team colors and/or mascot. She usually survives a LOT longer than many of the men who compare players, stats, records ... :)

[Lindsay]

I just choose teams for a poll and I have to choose 4 teams for 4 different games each week for a whole regular season and believe me I have just go with my interest and sometime I have a hard time with it..

Question: I have a Author that has the same Letter for First and Last Name could I use his name even though there only one R in Steelers? <- for Cherie

[Cherie]

Welcome to the Field Chaitra and Lindsay!

@Lindsay: Sorry, both of the author's initials must be found separately in the word so you would need two R's for that one to count.

[~Leslie~]

Barb wrote: "Leslie wrote: "I'm such a crazy football fan - I watch both NFL and college! "

Right there with you, Leslie, although we have different favorite teams :)"

That just makes it fun! I have family all over the country and I've lived all over the country - so I have a few teams I am fond of - but New Orleans is my home and I am passionate about my Saints (and LSU).

[Barb]

Yes! Just like in books and food, we can't all like the same thing (team, in this case), right? That's what makes life interesting :)

[Lindsay]

Cherie wrote: "Welcome to the Field Chaitra and Lindsay!

@Lindsay: Sorry, both of the author's initials must be found separately in the word so you would need two R's for that one to count."

That what I thought, so I will be looking for some time but I will try and find a book soon enough. Thanks for answering

[Lindsay]

Barb wrote: "Yes! Just like in books and food, we can't all like the same thing (team, in this case), right? That's what makes life interesting :)"

Right Barb, it would be. Life be borning if everyone one liked the same teams or food or music and everything the same

[Cherie]

Welcome to the challenge Brianna!

[[deleted user]]

I'm in for option 1. My teams will be the Patriots and Jaguars. This sounds like a really good challenge.

[Cherie]

Thanks Rebecca! Welcome to the challenge!

[~Leslie~]

I'm ready for some serious trash talking! Who Dat!!

[Hettie]

I'm going to give this a go!

I'll try the Players on the field with my main post listed below.

I'm from the UK and have absolutely no knowledge of what we call American Football. I doubt I will learn much over the next few weeks so I will be choosing my games and teams based on what looks like a fun maskot challenge or (!shock!horror!) what tasks fits books I am planning to read.

Cherie I have a few things I am not clear on. I can choose games, teams and tasks up to any point before the game starts is that correct? But can I change a book for a particular task after the game ends (as long as it fits into the task chosen)?

Can I add extra points after the game ends or do they also have to be chosen before it starts?

Also can someone point me to some links so that I can find out the results for the games and where all the games to be played are listed?

I am looking forward to seeing how all you true fan do with sticking with your teams or whether you will follow the points!!!!

[Hettie]

Option 2: Players on the Field
Duration: 9/5/12 - 2/3/13
Updated: 11 Nov 12

WEEK 1
Game: Seahawks vs Cardinals
Prediction: Cardinals
Result: Cardinal win
Touch Down - 6 points + 2 bonus
Task: 6 - Initials in CARDINALS
Read:Sheer Folly by Carola Dunn
Completed: 10 Sept 12

Bonus:
2: Red cover
Read From Dead to Worse, finished 20 Oct 12

4: Character called Ernie
Read Gone West: A Daisy Dalrymple Mystery, finished 9 Nov 12



WEEK 2
Game: Broncos vs Falcons
Prediction: Falcons
Result: Falcons win
Touch Down - 6 points + 2 bonus
Task: 2 - Cover mainly Red, Black, White or Silver
Read: Sugar Cookie Murder - white cover
Completed: 30 Aug 12


Bonus:
4: Character called Jeff
Read A Secret Rage, finished 20 Oct 12
3: Character is a teacher
Read Deira Joins the Chalet School, finished 7 Nov 12

WEEK 3
Game: Texan vs Broncos
Prediction: Broncos
Result: Broncos lose
Task: 3 - a book where a horse or horses play a major role
Read:
Completed:

Bonus:

WEEK 4
Game: Panthers vs Falcons
Prediction: Panthers
Result: Panthers lose
Task: 6 initials found in PANTHERS
Read:
Completed:

Bonus:

WEEK 5
Game: Green Bay Packers vs Colts
Prediction: Colts
Result:
Task: 3 Read a book involving horses in some way OR with a horse on the cover
Read:
Completed:

Bonus:

WEEK 6
Game: Lions vs Eagles
Prediction: Lions
Result: Lion win
6 points - touchdown + 2 bonus points
Task: 4 - character name
Read: All Together Dead - character Bill to Bill Dudley
Completed: 8 Sept 12

Bonus:
3: Monarchy of Genovia features
Read Princess in Love, finished 6 Oct 12
3: Monarchy of Genovia features
Read Princess in Waiting, finished 10 Oct 12

WEEK 7
Game: Jets vs Patriots
Prediction: Jets
Result: Jets lose
Field goal - 3 points
Task: 2, hunter green cover
Read: Top O' the Mournin'
Completed: 21 Sept 12


Bonus:

WEEK 8
Game: Falcons vs Eagels
Prediction: Falcons
Result: Falcons win
Touchdown - 6 points
Task: 3 - character is teacher
Read: Hilda Annersley: Headmistress
Completed: 4 Nov 12

Bonus:

WEEK 9
Game: Lions vs Jaguars
Prediction: Lions
Result: Lions win
Touchdown 6 points + 1 bonus
Task: 3, monarch
Read: Prince Caspian: The Return to Narnia
Completed: 5 Oct 12

Bonus:
2: Black cover
Read Wolfsbane And Mistletoe, finished 31 Oct 12


WEEK 10
Game: Jets vs Seahawks
Prediction: Jets
Result:
Task: 3, space
Read: End Game
Completed: 27 Oct 12

Bonus:

WEEK 11
Game: Cardinals vs falcons
Prediction: Cardinals
Result:
+ 1 bonus point
Task: 6 - Carola Dunn CD in CARDINALS
Read: Anthem for Doomed Youth
Completed: 16 Oct 12

Bonus:
2: Red cover
Read Cherry Cheesecake Murder, finished 27 Oct 12


WEEK 12
Game: Eagles vs panthers
Prediction: Eagels
Result:
Task: 2, black and white cover
Read: A Night to Remember: The Classic Bestselling Account of the Sinking of the Titanic
Completed: 1 Oct 12


Bonus:

WEEK 13
Game: Seahawk vs Bears
Prediction: Bears
Result:
+ 1 bonus
Task: 4 - Character called Bill
Read: Peach Cobbler Murder
Completed: 7 Oct 12

Bonus:
3: Set in 1940's
Read How the Girl Guides Won the War, finished 3 Nov 12

WEEK 14
Game: Falcons vs Panthers
Prediction: Panthers
Result:
+ 2 bonus points
Task: 4 - character called Jake
Read: Spy High Mission One
Completed: 4 Oct 12

Bonus:
2: Cover blue and white
Read James and the Giant Peach, finished 20 Oct 12

4: Character called Julius
Read Matilda, finished 21 Oct 12

WEEK 15
Game: lion vs cardials
Prediction: cardinals
Result:
Task:
Read:
Completed:

Bonus:

WEEK 16
Game: falcons vs lions
Prediction: falcons
Result:
Task:
Read:
Completed:

Bonus:

WEEK 17
Game: bears vs lions
Prediction: lions
Result:
Task:
Read:
Completed:

Bonus:

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

Play Offs

WILDCARDS
Game: Colts vs Ravens
Prediction: Colts
Result:
Task:
Read:
Completed:

Bonus:

Game points 33
Bonus points 11
Season total points: 44