Video Scandals Rock the Cranapple Bowl.

Embarrassing Video Hurts Red

The defending three time champions will be without the services of one of their star players. Darren Ross, a player that has had a HUGE impact for the Red team, despite the fact that no one could remember his name, will NOT be wearing Red this year. As a matter of fact he will not even be in New York State.

A tape recently surfaced on TMZ.com of Ross kissing a hot blonde (see picture). Late word is that he and star Red team QB Mike Veroneezee’s cousin are no longer dating due to the video revelation.

There are wild accusations that Black team head coach Kevin Walsh hired a blonde bombshell to seduce Ross for one little kiss while Walsh was taping. "I have no comment" said Walsh.

When Ross was asked to comment on the tape, his first reply was "the bitch set me up!!!" It initially appeared he was referring to the blonde on the tape, but as he went on it was clear he was referring to Walsh setting him up. "That was not me on the tape!!! First they NEVER vote me MVP, hoping I would not come back, next they make this tape to ruin my relationship! I was serious about this girl" said Ross. "I even learned how to spell Veronisi!" Ross claims it has to be the Black team manager. "I had three great games and got nothing, not even my name on the site. Once he put me in a video, and what, the announcer calls me McGriff? (watch video) Then Ricky Dominick comes in off the street and plays better than Walsh at QB, which is not saying much, and he gets co-mvp in a losing cause!! It’s fixed!!!!"

Videogate II

First the Patriots, now the Black team … or is it the other way around? Rumors have been going around for the past three years that the Black team has been filming the Red team's huddle and signal calling. That was confirmed this week during an interview with Tom Brady in which he was explaining why people should get off the Pats’ back. "We aren’t the only ones doing this you know. In fact we weren’t even the first." He went on to describe how he had met Kevin Walsh while he was in the First Lady’s box at the 2004 State of the Union address. "This wacko secret service guy offered me the tip about how Black was going to start taping Red’s signals. He claimed it was going to permenantly shift the balance of power in the Cranapple Bowl. I was actually impressed with the idea, so I reciprocated with a tip on how to sleep with lots of supermodels. Of course the first step is to be a good looking star NFL QB … so good luck to him…"

When Walsh was told of the revelation, he didn't deny it. "Yeah, I did it, but you know the best part? I suckered the Red team into pitching in to pay for the videographer every damn year ... Ha!"

Reaction to the Scandals

Old timer Jim Francese, who played when the game was called simply the Apple Bowl, was asked what he thought of the scandals. "Back in my day, men were men. We played tackle and didn't pull any of this off the field crap." He went on to say that because of Videogate, Black should have an asterisk next to their record the past three years. "Black has lost the last three, but it turns out that they are much worse than their record indicates. Without spying, those games might have been over in 30 minutes."

Is Veronessi the Next Favre?

What do Veronese and future Hall of Fame QB Brett Favre have in common? Well, they both have a penchant for slinging their teams to victory or throwing multiple horrid interceptions. Also, nobody knows how to spell either of their names. Now you can add one more thing to the list ... reports are that Varonesi has become addicted to pain killers like Favre once was. He got on the junk recently when he had dental problems and now can't get off. Red captain Rob Raneri is just hoping Veronesse isn't picked to pee in a cup before the game.

Other News

Things may be looking up for the Black team. There are rumors that Chuck Mullaly may be making a return after a three year absence. "It will be good to see him in Red” said Dan Cross (who plays for Black), "the last time we won was when Chuck Played!!!!"

The Black team is not without their share of problems. Brad Marxer, who has disappointed Black team fans for the past few years, has injured his ankle dancing at the Dutch Cabin. Despite there being no dance floor, Marxer was seen practicing a Chad Johnson like celebration just in case he scores (see video). Rob Ranieri was not surprised. "The black team gave him a permanent contract after one big year and he has turned into the Bobby Bonilla of the football field!"

There is another Marxer that has his own controversy. Rumor has it Scotty Marxer has tested positive for Clenbuterol. Clenbuterol is commonly used among athletes and dieters outside of the United States. Marxer has dropped weigh and may increase his effort from one play to three! That is a huge jump!!!!

In other news OLL class of 1987 will be planning their 21st reunion! Detail to follow in 2009!

CAN YOU SAY DYNASTY???

Red Wins Third Straight, 5-4.

Mick Baitinger and Ricky Dominick Named 2006 Co-MVPs

2006 MVP Lines:

Brad Marxer: 4-1
Mike Verenesi: 12-1
Bob Martin: 6-1
Dan Cross: 10-1
Mike Varonesi: 9-1
Scott Lysco (if found): 8-1
Mike Fitzgerald: 9-1
Darren Ross: 3-1
Mike Veronesy: 19-1
Mick Baitinger: 7-1
Kevin Walsh: 8-1
Rob Raneri: 9-1
Mike Veranesi: 15-1
David Sottile: 25-1
Scott Marxer: 10-1
Brian Fitzgerald: 10-1
Chris Politi: 19-1 (10-1 if he finishes game)
Mike Varanesi: 17-1
Field (any other player) 6-1

Video Play of the Day: Red TD - 2005 Cranapple Bowl Radio Call.

Check Out the Old School Video of the Day: 2000 Cranapple Bowl Preview.

---

Cranapple Bowl Exclusive

Breaking news: Nov 16, 2006 -- An unnamed source close to the Black organization has told CranappleBowl.com that QB Mike Veronesi, the 2005 MVP for Red, will sign with the Black team for 2006. There has been no confirmation from the Black team, Red team, or Veronesi himself. A press release photo of Veronesi wearing a Black jersey was uncovered late yesterday. No contract details have been released. However the unnamed source did say the only potential sticking point was ongoing negotiations over the correct spelling of his name for the back of his Black jersey. It has been widely publicized that Red captain Rob Ranieri and 2004 MVP Mike Fitzgerald have corresponded with Veronesi in hopes of a 2006 return.

In other news, despite the videotaped statement of Chris Politi stating he will play this year, there is still question as to whether or not he will play. He is listed as questionable due to an unknown injury.

One can only wonder how all of these developments will affect the 2006 MVP lines, which are due out by Friday. Stay tuned!

NEWS ALERT: CranappleBowl.com releases the 2005 MVP Video

THE 20th CRANAPPLE BOWL IS JUST DAYS AWAY

Cranapple Bowl XX Preview

Poughkeepsie, NY -- Cranapple Bowl 2006, the 20th Cranapple Bowl of all time, is almost here. Years ago one could only dream of keeping a game alive for so long, now it is the talk of the country.

This year marks the second time in four years that a team is going for its third consecutive victory. Red is trying to do the trick this year. Black found itself in the same situation three years ago only to drop the next two.

Will the pressure of trying to three-peat be too much for Red? Can they handle this date with immortality? Or will they succumb as Black did three years ago when they were attempting the historic trifecta only to lose and watch as finger pointing and salary cap problems decimate their team in future years.

Red captain Rob Raneri sounds confident in his team, saying that they are just taking these games one at a time, preparing as always, and not thinking about the dynasty that could be. This is in sharp contrast to Kevin Walsh, the Black team captain, who brashly declared in 2003, that his team was "the greatest in Cranapple Bowl history" and declared that they would easily win their third straight.

The game is only days away, and as always there are controversies everywhere.

The burning questions are: Will Politi play this year? And will there be a repeat MVP performance?

As usual there are several key players on the injury report. Scott Lysko is listed as questionable this year due to lack of desire. Word is he may not make the annual trip to Poughkeepsie. Mick Baitinger is NOT on the injury report. Despite playing with a broken hand last year and now being homeless in Poughkeepsie (Mick's parents have moved from the area) he will STILL be there on Friday.

Quarterback is potentially a huge problem for Red and the controversy has sent Rob Ranieri back to the drawing board. The Red team is looking for a QB with Mike Veronesi in a contract dispute and Lysko trying to retire on his 3 completion performance last year. Ranieri has toyed with idea of going back to the wishbone and has contacted Jim Francese as a possible replacement.

The Black team's injury report lists only Bob Martin as questionable. Martin has been a staple in the Black team's line-up. It is not known why Martin might not play, but he denies that he is avoiding the spotlight due to the persistent rumors that he has fathered ten illegitimate male children with various women over the past four years. CranappleBowl.com believes that Martin is just trying to maintain the future vitality of the game by producing a Red team to compete against the Black team that he is working on with his wife.

The only other issue for Black is trying to figure out how to actually win the game!

Regardless of the side stories, we are only days away from the 20th Cranapple Bowl. A game that has kept friends coming together for the last 19 years for a few hours of laughs, wings and beers. It doesn't really matter who wins or loses it all about the memories.

Black team's Captain Kevin Walsh summed it up best when asked why we play the Crannapple Bowl? "This is what's great about the Cranapple Bowl. This is what the greatest thing about the Cranapple Bowl is. You play to win the game. Hello? ... YOU PLAY ... TO WIN ... THE GAME! You don't play it to just play it. That's the great thing about the Cranapple Bowl: you play to win, and I don't care if you don't have any wins. You go play to win. When you start tellin' me it doesn't matter, then retire. Get out! 'Cause it matters."

CranappleBowl.com presents the 2005 MVP Video .

Check Out the Old School Video of the Day: That's Gotta Hurt.

Exclusive Video Interview: Will Politi Return?

RED'S NOT ANGRY NOW!

Red Wins Second Straight, 7-3.

Mike Veronesi Named 2005 MVP

CRANAPPLEBOWL XIX PREVIEW

It is Thanksgiving time again and that can mean only one thing ... it is time for the CranappleBowl. This is shaping up to be an interesting game, with the possibility of several firsts. This could be the first November game that started with snow on the ground, and bettors are predicting record low scoring (the Vegas over/under is 3). There could also be a record crowd at the game. Rumor is that all of the members of an obscure religious sect are going to be in attendance to see if Chris Politi will play in his third straight CranappleBowl as they believe this is a sure sign of the apocalypse.

Red was favored in early betting and was installed at 1 1/2 point favorites. However the game has since been pulled from the board. With the snow on the ground, bookmakers are apparently concerned that Red will forfeit and go straight to the Hobnobbin' Pub. In MVP betting, Kevin Walsh leads all players at 2-1 odds, based on the possibility that he is the only person to show up.

This years game also has a record long injury report, highlighted by WR-Dan Cross: Probable (out of shape), WR-Mick Baitinger: Out (finger on left hand), and QB-Mick Baitinger: Questionable (lack of ability). Nearly everyone else is questionable due to age and/or lack of motivation.

In any case, the folks at CranappleBowl.com are expecting an interesting game this year and are already planning special festivities to celebrate the 20th CranappleBowl next year.

RED'S REVENGE

Red Avenges Last Years's OT Loss, 7-5.

2004 MVP Award Delayed by Voting Controversy.

Poughkeepsie, NY, Nov, 26 2004 -- The Red team put together a strong performance to bounce back from last year's bitter loss. Riding a stingy defense in the second half, Red grabbed a victory that was even more decisive than the 7-5 final score would indicate.

After taking a 4-3 lead into halftime, Red used an efficient offense and a punishing red zone defense to push out to an almost insurmountable 7-3 lead in the second half. Black scored two late touchdowns to make the final score a bit more respectable.

From the outset, the game was the total opposite of last year's 3-2 OT game played in the rain and slop of Sheafe Road Park. It was a sunny and brisk day that was ideal for scoring, and the two teams did not waste any time taking advantage of the conditions. On Red's second offensive play of the game, Red QB Mike Veronesi hit Mike Fitzgerald on a down-out and up along the right sideline for a 41 yard touchdown. Black followed up with a touchdown march of their own, culminating in a 12 yard touchdown from Kevin Walsh to Dan Cross, and the first half track meet was on.

From there, Red hit another long bomb for a 49 yard touchdown from Veronisi to Mick Baitinger followed by two Black touchdowns, a 20 yard strike from Walsh to Chris Politi and a 5 yard pass from Walsh to Cross. Red closed the half by hitting for two touchdowns, a 12 yard pass from Veronisi to Baitinger and a 6 yard pass from Veronesi to Rickey Dominic.

Veronisi finished the half with with a sterling stat line, going 15 for 20 with 4 TDs and 1 interception, in leading Red to a 4-3 halftime advantage.

In the second half, the defenses started flexing their muscles. Finally slowing down the offenses. Black held red out of the end zone several times with interceptions while Red held Black over an hour without a touchdown.

Red managed a bit more offense than Black, with Veronesi hitting on touchdown passes of 19 yards to Baitinger, 7 yards to to Rob Raneri and 24 yards to Mike Fitzgerald, stretching their lead out to 7-3. The pass to Fitzgerald was probably the best play of the game, a perfectly thrown pass dropped in between two defenders that Fitzgerald made a nice catch on and trotted into the corner of the end zone.

Black closed out with two late touchdowns of 5 yards from Walsh to Cross and a 7 yarder from Walsh to Politi as the final wistle blew.

This year's Cranapple Bowl was notable for the high level of play. There were fewer dropped passes in this game than there has been in any game in memory, except possibly the ill fated 1-0 ice bowl game that was ended after about 30 minutes when Kevin Walsh broke his ankle. The one exception was Scott Marxer's almost comical drop of an interception in the first half that would have gone for a Black touchdown.

Another thing this year's game shared with the ice bowl game game was the giant red apple painted at midfield. Red captain Rob Raneri credited the apple with firing up his troops. "When I walked out on the field and saw that apple, I almost cried," Raneri said. "We knew then this was a game we had to win."

Most importantly, there was a great turnout for the game with some new faces as well as some old ones we hadn't seen in a long time, like Tommy Hayes. The game went off without any injuries more significant than some sore muscles, so hopefully we can look forward to another strong turnout next year.

MVP VOTE DELAYED

Red's victory was such a complete team effort that the MVP voting is extremely close, with several candidates in the running. The committee voting was so close in fact that the committee chairman refused to certify the voting results. Word is that a final recount and decision could come on Monday or Tuesday at the latest.

Committee members Kevin Walsh and Mick Baitinger held a joint news conference and stated that the MVP will be named early in the week with an MVP video also released on CranappleBowl.com at that time. "Once the video is cut, the voting is final," Walsh said. "Not even the Supreme Court can change anything then."

Once the MVP is awarded, CranappleBowl.com will immediately post the results and reaction.

2004 Vegas Line:

Red (-2) vs. Black
Over/Under: 10
First Half Over/Under: 5 ½
Second Half Over/Under: 4 ½
Will Politi play this year: Yes +400 no -350
Will Keith Goldberg play this year no line due to Goldberg feeling slighted for not having an mvp video of his own this past year
Who will have a catch this year first Martin or Ranieri
Over/under of new babies this year: 5
Over/Under Game Time Temp: 38 degrees
Over/Under number of INT’s: 6
Over/under number of int’s thrown by Walsh: 6
Over/Under Longest TD Pass against Lysco: 39 Yards
Over/Under Holding Penalties: 12
Over/Under Number of Plays David Sottile Plays Line: 12
Over/Under Number of Times Mike Veronesi Fakes Out the Cameraman with a Pump Fake: 8
Over/Under Number of Angry Red Players Not Invited Back Next Year: 1
Over/Under Number of Plays Before Chris Politi Gets Hurt: 3
Which will be greater: Number of people out by halftime with a pulled hamstring or Number of Children Fathered By Bob Martin During Halftime
Odds that the Black team will eventually be renamed "The Martins": 2-1
Over/Under Number of Rule Arguments Initiated By Kevin Walsh: 2 ½
Over/Under Number of Instant Replay Challenges Decided where Kevin Walsh Does Not Allow Anyone Other Than Himself Watch the Replay: 1 ½
Odds Kevin and Mick Will Paint a Big Red Apple at Midfield: 2-1
Number of Plays Before Politi Kills the People Who Put the Negative Stuff About Him on the Site: 4
Odds that Scott Lisco's name will ever be spelled correctly on the website: 1,000,000 - 1

MVP Lines:

Brad Marxer: 4-1
Mike Veronesi: 2-1
Bob Martin: 6-1
Dan Cross: 100-1(has to actually show up)
Scott Lysco: 8-1
Mike Fitzgerald: 9-1
Mick Baitinger: 3-1
Kevin Walsh: 8-1
Rob Raneri: 9-1
David Sottile: 8-1
Scott Marxer: 10-1
Brian Fitzgerald: 10-1
Chris Politi: 11-1 (must finish game)
Goldgerg 1000-1 (only played last year to get his name in the odd’s for this year!)
Field (any other player) 6-1

BLACK TO BACK!

Defense Rains as Black Wins Second Straight, 3-2.

Chris Politi and Keith Goldberg Named 2003 co-MVPs in Historic OT Game.

2003 Cranapple Bowl Box Score

Poughkeepsie, NY, Oct 2004 (Secret Service Newswire) -- This years Cranapple Bowl was played in a torrential rain storm, under the worst field conditions, and resulted in one the best games ever in Cranapple Bowl history. After last years instant classic (7-6 Black Victory) no one figured this years game would ever be anywhere near as exciting as last years contest, especially with the horrendous weather predicted. Defense was the name of the game this year. Despite the Black team out gaining the Red team by 135 yards, the Red teams bend but don’t break defensive attitude made this a classic. The Black team jumped out to a 1-0 lead after Dan Cross caught a 1 yard TD pass from Walsh. There was controversy on the play before when Cross caught the ball in the end zone, (as indicated by his drag marks) however the Red players argued that the ball never crossed the goal line (Replay indicates Cross was in). One play later Cross made the next one count. The key play to the drive was a 30 yard catch by Co- MVP Chris Politi. Politi grabbed the tipped pass on the muddy side of the field to set up Cross’s TD. The other Co-MVP Keith Goldberg gave the Black team a 2-0 lead with a 39 yard TD catch. Mike Versonesi who struggled at times due to weather, dropped passes and an intense Black pass rush, had one of his worst games in Cranapple bowl history. The Black team held Veronisi to just a 40% completion percentage on the day. Veronis was able to connect with his favorite target Mick Baitinger for 2 TD’s. Baitinger’s first TD was called back after he had stepped out of the back of the end zone before he caught the pass. The Black team did not adjust very well to the play as Baitinger was all alone for the second play in row to cut the lead to 2-1. Baitinger caught his 2nd TD of the game late in the day as Red tied the score at 2. For the first time in Cranapple Bowl history the game was sent into OT (College Style). Black scored on its first possession as Bob Martin came in and threw a 25yrd TD to 1999 MVP Brad Marxer. Chris Politi sacked Vernesi in OT and Red was unable to score giving the Black back to back dramatic 1 point victories.

MVP’s SHOW PATIENCE

Chris Politi and Keith Goldberg may have arrived last at this year’s Cranapple bowl, but they came to play. Politi’s 3 sacks and 7 catches for 113yds combined with several broken up passes by Goldberg and his team high 10 catches for 122yds were enough to earn them co-MVP. Already the talk of “can they repeat as back to back MVP’s” has started. Forget that it has never happened in Cranapple bowl history, coupled with the fact that Politi is listed as doubtful (due to the fact that it will be an even year) and Goldberg is listed as doubtful as well (due to some random family event that usually comes up every other year.)

ANOTHER SOCIAL INJUSTICE PERPTRATED BY THE MAN!!

One has to wonder why Dan Cross and Mick Baitinger have not been considered for MVP in the past two years. Baitinger has had 9 catches for 3TD in 2002 and 11 catches and 2TD’s in 2003 leaving him and Susan Lucci as the only two people that have not taken home the hardware. Dan Cross has 20 catches himself in the last two years as well as 3 TD’s.

CHUCKY NO SHOES

Bob Martin brought his friend Chuck who was almost banned from the game. Not because he did not bring cleats (However Chuck did have to go to the store to buy sneakers to go to Hobnobbin, Hey Chuck, go to the store before the game and get cleats!) but because he showed up in a RED JERSEY!.

DELANEY DEMOTED

Joe Delaney has been demoted to the kids' game before he ever played a down after not showing because of the rain. Joey Sottile’s Kids R US game was cancelled this year because his Mom would not let him go out in the rain. First timers Mike Francese and Chuck Mullaly got a taste of Cranapple bowl and are eager to come back. Fracese will be back just to help line the field.

MULLALY ENDS RUMORS

If anyone thought there was any question as to whether or not Mullaly would be back, his post game interview cleared that up. When asked if he would be back net year Chuck Responded “I have put a pitchfork go through my leg, I have shattered my knee cap, but I have NEVER felt pain like I did today when I lost to the black team this year! I’ll be back!!”

BLACK to Back to BLACK??????? BEACON BOYS (won’t) RISE TO CHALLENGE!!!

Same teams as last year???? It worked this year but will it happen again. There are rumors that the Beacon Boys” from the class of 1986 are pondering challenging the much more talented class of 1987. “It would be a HUGE challenge for us.” Said 1986 Dan Mcelduff. “We had the size but it was apparent that they had all the talent”. Pat Kerr was vague when asked about the possibility of being given the chance to play in the Cranapple Bowl. “I won’t go so far as to say that I am scared to play them, I will say I am scared of losing!” “For years we could always say we had the better class” said Andrew Forman, “Now if we play them I am not sure what we would say!” Tom Mckiernan has already begun to make excuses, “UHHHHH I think I'm hunting on that day, ummm otherwise we would win!”

RANDOM THOUGHTS

As there is no end in site for the Cranapple Bowl one can only reflect on the following: This year’s game was the longest in Cranapple bowl history. The rain did not stop us, last year the snow did not stop us, and not even a Presidential trip to Iraq could stop us ... We are only about 6 years away from the Martin boys jumping in the mix! ... Cranapple first timer Chuck Mullaly, playing for Red, had as many completions from Black QB Kevin Walsh as he did from his own QB Mike Veronesi. Mullaly, not surprised when told this stat after the game said, "Of course, Walsh threw more balls to me." ... Rob Ranieri and Bob Martin were each held to no catches this year, both Cranapple bowl firsts.

Cranapple Bowl 2003 Videos

Video #1: Chris Politi --- MVP

See Chris' greatest hits from the 2003 Cranapple Bowl. A must have for every Cranapple Bowl fan. He doesn't play in even numbered years, but with this video, you can watch him play every year. Click here to download the video.

Video #2: Scotty Says ... DOH!

The lighter side of the Cranapple Bowl. Oh Scott ... we kid because we love. Click here to download the video.

Video #3: Dan vs. Mick!

Who will be this year's MVP? Click here to download the video.

Video #4: TOUCH-DOWN!!!...RED!!!

Listen to the call and watch the play. Click here to download the video.

President Bush Invites Cranapple Bowl to White House

Washington, DC (AP) -- After years of snubbing the Cranapple Bowl victor, representatives of the Cranapple Bowl were invited to meet President Bush at the White House. The visit was part of a push by the White House to stress core American values heading into the coming election year. "These young men show the dedication, perseverance and brotherhood that makes America great", said Bush. "That is, except Politi and Sottile. They are just a couple of slackards that remind me of everyone who just wants to live off government handouts and spend your hard earned tax dollars … and Joe, the Angry Red Player? Don’t even get me started about him."

As part of the ceremony, Kevin Walsh and Rob Raneri, pictured at left, presented Bush with Red and Black game jerseys.

Bush showed that he has followed past Cranapple Bowl games when kidding around with Walsh and Raneri. "I'm glad to see that Walsh finally won a game last year, what with all the time he wastes watching game film all year long", Bush said. "He just better win this year. I don’t need any losers on my protection team, especially with an election coming up to win." And of Raneri he said, "Well you didn’t win last year, but look on the bright side … at least you didn’t catch one in the old onion sack again.".

Fitzgerald Addresses Red Personnel Issues

After the presentation, Mike Fitzgerald fielded questions from the White House media. Fitzgerald, pictured right, was clearly exasperated when asked about the status of Joe, the Angry Red Player for this year’s game. "Joe, the Angry Red Player has been indefinitely deactivated from the Red team", said Fitzgerald. "He was a cancer that could not be tolerated any more if the Red team is to get back on the winning track. I mean nobody liked the guy, and he wasn’t a team player." This was a reference to his teamates annoyance when Joe refused to play defensive line during the last game, despite him being burned play after play for touchdowns. "I mean they just wanted to put him somewhere that he couldn’t do any more damage", Fitzgerald added. "Then when he skipped out on the team photo after the game, he became an embarrassment to everyone who plays in this game. He had to go."

With Good Weather Could Come Record Cranapple Bowl Crowd

Poughkeepsie, NY (AP) -- It could be the best weather in years for the Cranapple Bowl this Friday. The forecast calls for temperatures in the mid 40s and sunny skies.

After the poor weather that the game has seen the past several years, the forecast has Cranapple Bowl officials feeling good. In fact, many are expecting to break the attendance record set last year when 10 spectators watched the game. "It is difficult to guage these things, since we don't sell advance tickets, but we are optimistic", said Mick Baitinger, the Cranapple Bowl co-Chairman, webmaster and groundskeeper. "We think the entire Martin clan will be there. He must have at least 10 kids by now, so we should easily break the record."

There will also be extra security at the game due to the expected crowds and a tip received from the Secret Service that Joe, the Angry Red Player may be planning to disrupt the game in response to his banishment from the Cranapple Bowl.

ODD MAN IN!!!!!!

(Special to Cranapple Bowl Online)

It's 2003 and that can only mean one thing. Chris Politi will be back to play -- at least for a couple of plays -- in the 2003 Cranapple Bowl. "It's not easy playing in this game year after year." Said Politi. "It takes me a full two years to prepare for this game, and most times that's not enough!" Despite missing some of the best Cranapple moments ever, Politi won't change his style of preparation. "I know I missed the Instant Classic, the Snow Bowl, and Joe the angry red player, but I have to prepare myself for this game." Politi has set his sights higher this year than any other year. "I actually hope to make it to half time this year!", referring to his string of injuries. "My body just cannot handle the pressure and physical demands of an entire game!" Dave Sottile a Cranapple grandfather who has only missed one game in his career (The infamous night game) had some advice for Chris. "Hey Chris! I may give up on every play but at least I finish the game!"

The game time tempeture is supposed to be warmer than years past, so that might be a factor to Politi's success. Now if he can only find his cleats!

Cranapple Bowl Goes Big Time ... Check Out Some Past Cranapple Bowl Commercials.

(click here to view the story)

Did You Know:

This is the 15th year the Cranapple Bowl has been played, but it is the 16th Cranapple Bowl game.

2003 Vegas Line:

Black (-1) vs. Red
Over/Under: 14
First Half Over/Under: 7 ½
Second Half Over/Under: 6 ½

Over/Under Game Time Temp: 40 degrees
Over/Under Longest TD Pass: 39 Yards
Over/Under Longest TD Pass against Lysco: 39 Yards
Over/Under Holding Penalties: 12
Over/Under Number of Plays David Sottile Plays Line: 12
Over/Under Number of Times Mike Veronesi Fakes Out the Cameraman with a Pump Fake: 8
Over/Under Number of Angry Red Players Not Invited Back Next Year: 1
Over/Under Number of Plays Before Chris Politi Gets Hurt: 3
Which will be greater: Number of Passes Dropped By Mick Baitinger or Number of Children Fathered By Bob Martin During Halftime
Over/Under Number of Rule Arguments Initiated By Kevin Walsh: 2 ½
Over/Under Number of Instant Replay Challenges Decided where Kevin Walsh Does Not Allow Anyone Other Than Himself Watch the Replay: 1 ½
Odds Kevin and Mick Will Paint a Big Red Apple at Midfield: 2-1
Number of Plays Before Politi Kills the People Who Put the Negative Stuff About Him on the Site: 4

MVP Lines:
Brad Marxer: 4-1
Mike Veronesi: 2-1
Bob Martin: 6-1
Dan Cross: 10-1
Scott Lysco: 8-1
Mike Fitzgerald: 9-1
Mick Baitinger: 7-1
Kevin Walsh: 8-1
Rob Raneri: 9-1
David Sottile: 8-1
Scott Marxer: 10-1
Brian Fitzgerald: 10-1
Chris Politi: 11-1 (must finish game)
Field (any other player) 6-1