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Looking Forward 09-03-2016 04:19

Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
It's still Tuesday night in Hawaii
As week two approaches, seventeen events are already in the books and an eighteenth is underway in Tel Aviv. So far this season, Stronghold has played out like the game of tower defense it's supposed to be. In qualification, breaching the defenses is the name of the game, as the vast majority of alliances are aiming for 3RP matches (and often guarantee themselves the breach before focusing on tasks oriented with guaranteeing themselves the win). Ball offense picks up a fair bit in the playoffs, but so do defensive efforts. Many a great breacher in qualifications has found themselves as an alliance captain, but without a great way to distinguish themselves or create an edge in the elimination tournament. While alliances that can pot a few high goals have a bit of an edge, the real determining factors so far have been captures, shutdown defense, and scaling the tower.

Expect much of the same at most events in week two. Most matches will be filled with teams who's primary mission is to cross defenses, and perhaps score a goal or two when convenient. Low goals will remain the more reliable option, especially when there's traffic or defensive pressure in the courtyard. However, there will be a handful of events in which there importance of high goal quantity and efficiency may become incredibly important towards the end of the tournament. Watch out for what happens in finals at Toronto, Kansas City, Madera, Los Angeles, and Arizona for signs of how the later season may begin to play out. With powerhouse teams not needing all three alliance members to complete a capture, the defensive presence of the third alliance member may prove to be a difference maker at more than one of these events.

Alamo
All eyes in San Antonio will be on a pair of Texas' top powerhouses in 148 and 624. The Robowranglers struggled (relative to their standards) the last time they attended Alamo, with some early season tweaks necessary to another catapulted machine in 2014. Even if it takes a bit for 148 to dial in their launching, their excellently packaged scaling device and plenty of driver practice should give them a distinct edge over most of the field. CRyptonite will be their foremost competitor, and quite possibly their most likely partner (despite the fact that 148 and 624 have never paired up in their history). The team formerly known as the Cinco Rancho Engineering Wizards have a history of working some impressive autonomous magic, and hopefully 624 can carry that over into Stronghold with their wheeled shooter. Beyond those two, a pair of recent world champions in 1477 and 2848 will be hoping to end droughts at the regional level since 2013 and 2011 respectively. Even if the pair doesn't come out of the gate firing, they will almost certainly be adept breachers at the very least and it should position themselves well in the standings as a result. 2468 may not be quite as fast over the barriers as the top few, but they have a shooting machine with plenty of potential. While Alamo doesn't quite have the proven depth of some of the other top tier events this weekend, there are still quite a few of Texas' more hidden gems in the field. 3735 has been earning the respect of fellow competitors in recent years, but have yet to win an official award of any kind in team history. Conversely, 1817 has a well stocked award cabinet (especially if you consider individual awards, where they have 2 WFFAs and a 4 DLFAs), highlighted by a pair of regional victories. 3999 and 4063 are both bringing simple, and hopefully effective, machines that should be capable breachers and low goal scorers (with TriKzR4Kidz also featuring the potential for high goal shots). 3481 has seemingly stepped up their game this year, with a very attractive and ambitious design (albeit "low bar challenged"). 1255 will be an interesting test case for the value of opening category C defenses solo from the neutral zone, as that rare skillset may make them an attractive later selection for an alliance looking to increase their max potential score without dedicating multiple robot efforts. It may also be worth keeping an eye on 231 and 3005. Ultimately, this regional may be decided in qualifications, as if the top powerhouses are able to pair up, it might be very difficult to stop them (barring tortugas or electrical failures).

Arizona North Regional
2016 offers what may be the strongest regional in Arizona's history. The event in Flagstaff is a veritable who's who of powerhouse teams from all over the west. A bevy of teams from Arizona, Colorado, Idaho, California, New Mexico, and even some travelers from Wisconsin and Massachusetts will duke it out. Leading the Arizona teams are local legends 60, a rocker-bogie wielding HoF team 842, the zippy San Diego champs 2486, and relative young gun in the wooden 4183. Some of the lesser heralded nationally, but still very potent California teams will look to bring home some hardware. 192 and 846 both build technically proficient and aesthetically pleasing machines, and 3250 will be looking to recapture the magic of a strong 2015 season. 1339 will be venturing outside of Colorado for just the fourth time in their history, and looking to use their suspension to qualify for Championship for the first time. Conversely, fellow Coloradans 4499 have never failed to earn a Championship invite in some form in their short history, and are looking to build off a very strong 2015 to win on the field for the first time. 2996 will be hoping their compactly packed machine can start a new streaks of finals appearances, after 2015 marked the first year they weren't playing in the last match of at least one regional since 2011. But if Cougars Gone Wild are compact, then 125 is practically micro-sized. The Nu-Trons' robot wasn't shipped from the Northeast to Arizona, but checked on their airplane in a Pelican case. But the favorites at the event are two teams that broke into the FIRST spotlight last season after quietly building up highly successful programs in previous years. 1619 should be more prepared for Stronghold than many teams, with a long history of tracked drivetrains, and are looking to prove their two wins in 2015 (including one at an absolutely stacked Utah event) weren't flukes. 2122 lost to Up-A-Creek in Utah last year, but have picked up regional wins in five of the past six years, including a 2015 win a couple hours south in Phoenix. With the sheer quantity of quality machines attending this event, the elimination rounds should offer no fewer than three really potent alliances. It will be an interesting test to see if two powerhouse teams can acquire a defensive bot capable of overcoming a triple assault from a lower seed. Being able to get a slight edge via autonomous or the end game will be crucial in separating alliances.

PCH District: Columbus
After begging for districts and to get rid of 65+ team regionals, it's finally here for the peach state and the first event is going to be a good one. Georgia teams are used to large events with long turnaround times between matches; the region will need to build their robots robustly. Up and coming teams are looking to make a name for themselves, and the winners of the Columbus event will definitely have deserved that recognition. The Columbus event will feature four different 2015 regional winners, two different 2015 regional finalists, and multiple teams who are growing and getting better year by year. 2974 looks to build off their best year yet with a strong showing of their catapult this weekend. 1261 is notorious for starting hot, and these Robolions will look to pounce on the competition from the start. 4188 started out the 2015 season with a last place finish at their week 1 regional, but rebuilt their robot to win their week 5 event as alliance captains; these space engineers look to fire on all cylinders from the start, because their competition schedule (3 back-to-back events) will not be forgiving. The Columbus event will be all about breaching and scoring low goals early on in the event though, and 1746’s robot design is designed to do just that. Where OTTO lacks in firepower, they make up for with their drivetrain's speed and driver practice; a combination that may grant Kellen Hill the first 2016 banner in the Hill family. 2415 and 1648 both wield powerful shooters, but will start the event by focusing on breaching and the low goal before bringing out the big guns. The WiredCats will look to differentiate themselves in the later stages of the game with their unblockable outer works shot, and G3 Robotics will try to keep up in firepower with their articulating “cannon”. With such a loaded top tier, will it be possible for a middle tier team to break through? 4468 looks to prove so. The LINKS’ impressive reveal video was great, but the LINKS will need to focus on the breach and low goal if they want to have a chance at beating the other top teams.

Greater Kansas City
Even with another event across the state on the same weekend, GKC still looks like a stacked event. Missouri's four most recognizable powerhouses will be in attendance, and it would be surprising if at least two (if not three or even all four) of 1730, 1806, 1986, and 4522 are not in the finals. Titanium's elegant machine is a true beauty of engineering, but it's their incredible consistency that makes them the favorite. 1986's class of 2015 won 90% of the regionals they competed at, with the single loss occurring in the finals at Rock City last year. Team Scream may have the longest odds of the bunch, as their slick swerve driving courtyard sweeper might be better served in later weeks of competition. Or perhaps Team Scream's All-In attitude could push the Stronghold metagame towards that point, if they can align with other teams to handle the breaching duties while they focus on the low bar and scoring goals. But ultimately all four of the favorites may be in trouble if a trend continues. Since 2009, at least one defending regional champion has repeated their victory at GKC. That's good news for 1723 and 1785, who were both members of the 2015 Kansas City champion alliance (their partner, 1710, can be seen at Smoky Mountains in a few weeks). 2457 and 4959 will also be aiming to build off of strong 2015 campaigns. 935 will be looking to rebound after a disappointing Recycle Rush, but their experience in building custom drivetrains (including tracked ones) will serve them well in Stronghold. 1775's low goal and breaching specialist machine should also be in the hunt, as will 1987's slick-looking high goal shooter.

Greater Toronto East
Only a few select events will pack more high end firepower than GTR-E this season. Three of the top 1% teams in all of FRC will be taking the field for the first time.... plus two more recent world champions and a 2015 Einstein alliance captain on top of that. The top handful of teams in Oshawa should be able to compete with just about anyone in the FRC world. Both 610 and 1241 embraced design tradeoffs, and it will be interesting to see how Crescent Robotics' omission of high goal ability or Theory 6's choice to build higher than the low bar pays off in the end. Both teams have ended up creating a defined role for themselves with those decisions, and seeing how that role fits into the high powered top alliances at this event is a matter of some intrigue. On the other end of the spectrum, 118 embraced their typical do-everything mentality, finding ways to package a bevy of devices into a low bar capable machine. And once again, the Robonauts pushed the limit of the end game with a novel solution. Plenty of focus will be paid to 1114's debut as well, of course. The Simbotics have an argument for being the most consistent of all of the elite teams in FRC, and their 2016 entry gives little reason to suspect any regression from the Canadian powerhouse. While it will be insanely difficult to crack the top two alliances at this event, a handful of other Ontario powerhouses will hope to just that. 1305, 1325, 2013, and 4476 could very well create alliances capable of capturing the tower in the eliminations. The LF hivemind is also Looking Forward to seeing how 1285 managed to clone themselves in 2016. However, the most compelling story this weekend will be if 2056 is able to begin their tenth season without a regional loss. OP Robotics has won several events without the aid of the Simbots through their history, and their 2012 and 2015 match-ups against 1114 prove that 2056 can top elite teams. Even still, seeing how the top three teams align heading into the eliminations, and how much support they can get from later picks, will be a compelling situation. While nobody doubts that 2056 is capable of winning even if they're denied partnerships with 1114 and 118, it's doubtful that anyone in Stoney Creek is hoping for that scenario.

Arkansas Rock City
2015 Winners/Finalist Teams Returning- None
Really loves roller claws- 3937
Really loves polycord- 2338
Swerving over everything- 16
Unique concepts- 3310

Central Valley
Ultra slick scoring machine coached by a student- 254
Defending world champions- 1671, 1678
Tall shooters without scaling- 973, 1671
Ambitious rookies with plenty of driver practice- 5817
Slick low bar scorers looking to sneak an upset- 649, 701
Finally a game that rewards putting a shooter on top of a lift- 1323

Los Angeles
2015 Einstein- 330, 987, 3476, 5012
Looking to rebound after missing elims last week- 1197
Always great to look at- 399, 696, 4201
Should be in the mix- 3309, 4322

New York City
Rising international force- 4481
Trying to bring back their third consecutive win to England- 1884
Establishing themselves as a NYC powerhouse- 3419
Annual contenders- 354, 694, 1796, 2344

Orlando
Floridian Favorites- 233, 744, 1592
Looking For A Second Blue Banner this year- 1369, 4451
Hoping To Bounce Back From Lackluster 2015- 79, 180, 1065, 1902
Wildcards- 108, 1251, 1523, 1876, 2383, 3880, 4118

St. Louis
Favorites- 2451, 3284
Trying to live up to 2015- 1658, 2783
In the mix- 1208, 1675, 4329

Mexico City
Gunning for a three in a row- 2283
Established contenders- 3158, 3478, 4403
Rookies- 16

Greater Pittsburgh
Looking to refine their shot and qualify outside of FiM- 1023
Some of NY finest- 340, 1126, 1507, 3015
Stepped up their game in 2016- 1708
Perennial contender- 48

CHS District- Greater DC
Vae Victory in week 1- 1418
Should excel in the new format- 836, 1389, 1885,
Aiming to improve on opening weekend results- 4242, 5587

CHS District- Southwest Virginia
Northern Virginia #2 seed and finalists- 1731
Traditional VA powers transitioning to the district format- 346, 384, 1086, 1610
Scaled their way to the #3 seed in Haymarket- 2534

IN District- Tippecanoe
Event Name- You won't find one that's more fun to say
Week 1 veterans- 1501, 5188
Strong showing in the pre-season- 1747
Typically strong competitors- 135, 447, 829, 868, 1024
KISSophomores coming off Archimedes elimination appearance as rookies- 5403

FiM District- Kettering #2
Didn't have to travel far from their last event- 5251, 6086
On the rise- 4130, 4362
Presumptive favorites- 469
Twins of Kettering #1 victors- 494
Strong contenders- 314, 2337, 3539

FiM District- Lakeview
Finalists last weekend- 3656
Gunning for their first win- 857, 2611
Strong district season in 2015- 4381
5000+ numbered teams- 23

FiM District- St. Joseph
Quickly becoming one of the best in Michigan- 4967
Solid young team looking to break out- 5069
Contenders aiming to rack up points towards MSC- 2474, 2767, 2959, 3452, 3620

NC District- Wake County Event
Actually playing this weekend- 900
Strong performances in Guilford- 435, 2642
Trying to translate NC regional wins to the district format- 2059
Up and coming- 5160, 5190

NE District- WPI
CT's Power Players- 2168, 2067
Raising Stars- 4564, 4473, 5122, 1768
Post Lunch Power- 126, 175, 839, 1100, 2648
Hometown Spectrum of Simplicity- 190, 1735

NE District- North Shore
Ready to Storm the Castle- 319, 1058, 4905
History of Smart Simplicity- 58, 2084
Perennial Players- 133, 246, 4761
History of Defense- 97

PNW District- Glacier Peak
Hitting the Ground Running - 2522, 3663
Favorites - 492, 2930, 4911, 4915
Dark Horse - 1778
Traveling 2,000+ Miles - 568

PNW District- Wilsonville
Hometown heroes- 1425
Aiming high- 4488, 2471, 1540, 955
Up and coming- 2811, 997, 2521, 2990

Eugene Fang 09-03-2016 04:45

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
Finally a game that rewards putting a shooter on top of an lift- 1323



RC don't kill me.

cjl2625 09-03-2016 06:45

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
Mexico City
Gunning for a three in a row- 2283
Established contenders- 3158, 3478, 4403
Rookies- 16

Wow, the bomb squad is a super good rookie team :P

D_Price 09-03-2016 06:57

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by cjl2625 (Post 1554128)
Wow, the bomb squad is a super good rookie team :P

That is going to be one heck of a race for the rookie awards! haha

Jefferson 09-03-2016 07:43

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by cjl2625 (Post 1554128)
Wow, the bomb squad is a super good rookie team :P

And in Mexico City!! I haven't even left Mountain Home yet!

marshall 09-03-2016 08:23

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
Actually playing this weekend- 900

Yeah we are! Good luck to all the NC teams this weekend!

D_Price 09-03-2016 08:34

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Good luck to all teams competing this week and the teams coming to Pittsburgh Regional!

The_ShamWOW88 09-03-2016 09:05

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
More awesome analysis!

Good luck this weekend to all teams!

And the Aztechs are ready to compete and we'll see you at WPI!

PayneTrain 09-03-2016 09:09

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Eugene Fang (Post 1554123)
]

RC don't kill me.

Search your feelings; you know it to be true

Andrew Schreiber 09-03-2016 09:30

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Eugene Fang (Post 1554123)


RC don't kill me.

"When life gives you lemons, build an elevator"

- RC

Anupam Goli 09-03-2016 09:31

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

coached by a student- 254
Surprised no one is talking about this.

Akash Rastogi 09-03-2016 09:40

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Andrew Schreiber (Post 1554212)
"When life gives you lemons, build an elevator"

- RC

"What a perfectly nice robot...it needs a 4 bar" - RC probably.

Can't wait to see 1323's newest robot. They are beautiful machines.

Also yeah, I'm looking forward to seeing 254 transition into a student coach. Will this student also be the one designated for match strategy?

1648 - post your robot

The_ShamWOW88 09-03-2016 09:42

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Anupam Goli (Post 1554213)
Surprised no one is talking about this.

Prepare for thread derailment in 3...2...1...


:ahh:

Anupam Goli 09-03-2016 09:55

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Akash Rastogi (Post 1554218)

1648 - post your robot

Sorry, this is the best I can do right now.

We're planning on an official picture during unbag time tonight. Look out for it! Thanks for the shoutout, LF!

Jaci 09-03-2016 09:57

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Anupam Goli (Post 1554229)
Sorry, this is the best I can do right now.

We're planning on an official picture during unbag time tonight. Look out for it! Thanks for the shoutout, LF!

It's red, therefore it MUST go fast.
Shifting Gearbox confirmed.

TDav540 09-03-2016 10:18

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Jaci (Post 1554232)
It's red, therefore it MUST go fast.

This is the best description of our robot I've heard so far

New Lightning 09-03-2016 10:22

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Even though I will be in St. Louis this weekend I can't wait to see how the matches in KC turn out. The one thing that I know for sure is that the finals are going to be insane!

Ryan Dognaux 09-03-2016 11:14

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
St. Louis
In the mix- 1208, 1675, 4329

In the mix - yesssss. We'll take it :]

LCJ 09-03-2016 11:29

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
I'm really impressed by the analyst's information gathering skill. I hadn't heard many of the things he mentioned and I don't remember my team releasing our robot strategy either. Impressive analysis every week, thanks for doing the research for us!

CalTran 09-03-2016 11:39

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Anupam Goli (Post 1554229)
Sorry, this is the best I can do right now.

I really don't know why I didn't see that coming.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition


Greater Kansas City
Since 2009, at least one defending regional champion has repeated their victory at GKC.

Quote:

Originally Posted by New Lightning (Post 1554245)
The one thing that I know for sure is that the finals are going to be insane!

One of the most under talked about aspects of the regional. :p
Greater KC is a low key, super intense event (Though imho, the past few years at MCC haven't been nearly as great as having it at Hale Arena) KC's gonna be insane this year.
Side note, I also recently found out that regionals are apparently not normally 60 team events. GKC, how you spoil me.

Richard Wallace 09-03-2016 11:51

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Anupam Goli (Post 1554229)
Sorry, this is the best I can do right now.

Wait, did I miss something? Clearly our strategic analysis of this year's game was way off -- we didn't even consider a bench grinder. :ahh:

evanperryg 09-03-2016 12:58

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Arkansas Rock City
2015 Winners/Finalist Teams Returning- None
Really loves roller claws- 3937
Really loves polycord- 2338
Swerving over everything- 16
Unique concepts- 3310
You see, here at Gear it Forward, our design philosophy is "If it doesn't work, try adding banebot wheels." Robot can't hold a tote? Try adding banebot wheels. Prototype chassis can't cross the moat? Try adding banebot wheels. Don't want the bumpers to drag up the tower wall? Try adding banebot wheels. However, we decided to reach out of our comfort zone this season with polycord.

Jacob Bendicksen 09-03-2016 13:27

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Thanks for the shoutout! 1540 is, well, Looking Forward to Wilsonville this weekend.

Good luck to everyone competing this week!

Tom Bottiglieri 09-03-2016 13:29

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Anupam Goli (Post 1554213)
Surprised no one is talking about this.

The BBQ and corn dog lines at Championships are getting really long. The mentors don't really have time to be bothered with the matches.

IronicDeadBird 09-03-2016 13:35

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Man If LF's predictions were any more on point I'd be afraid.

bkahl 09-03-2016 13:40

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Tom Bottiglieri (Post 1554330)
The BBQ and corn dog lines at Championships are getting really long. The mentors don't really have time to be bothered with the matches.

They wanna take advantage of Pappy's and those corn dogs. It could be the last time...

RoboChair 09-03-2016 13:40

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Andrew Schreiber (Post 1554212)
"When life gives you lemons, build an elevator"

- RC

No, you give the lemons to Citrus Circuits. We need those lemons to build robots, got to keep those juices flowing.


Christopher149 09-03-2016 13:45

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
FiM District- Lakeview
Finalists last weekend- 3656
Gunning for their first win- 857, 2611
Strong district season in 2015- 4381
5000+ numbered teams- 23

857 would definitely be excited to have a blue banner, but I know it won't be easy.

cxcad 09-03-2016 13:47

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Akash Rastogi (Post 1554218)
1648 - post your robot

http://us7.campaign-archive1.com/?u=...e=d5ef2 cc643

Not on 1648, but here you go

JohnFogarty 09-03-2016 13:58

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by cxcad (Post 1554344)

Oooooooooooooo that's a lot of drive wheels.

Andrew Schreiber 09-03-2016 14:12

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by RoboChair (Post 1554340)
No, you give the lemons to Citrus Circuits. We need those lemons to build robots, got to keep those juices flowing.


http://www.theage.com.au/ffximage/20...b__200x304.jpg

I've never noticed the "don't panic" sticker on you guys...

FarmerJohn 09-03-2016 14:18

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Tom Bottiglieri (Post 1554330)
The BBQ and corn dog lines at Championships are getting really long. The mentors don't really have time to be bothered with the matches.

But with no more Players' BBQ, what will be done at CVR this weekend?

steverk 09-03-2016 14:43

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Thanks for putting this together! It is a great overview of the upcoming festivities.

However, I have one correction:

Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
Alamo
(despite the fact that 148 and 624 have never paired up in their history).

In fact, 148 and 624 (1st seed) paired up at Texas Robot Roundup post season event during the LogoMotion game. They were edged out by 118 (2nd seed) and 1477 in the finals.

Cory 09-03-2016 14:56

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by FarmerJohn (Post 1554364)
But with no more Players' BBQ, what will be done at CVR this weekend?

Tears. Lots of tears.

Jared Russell 09-03-2016 15:02

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Cory (Post 1554396)
Tears. Lots of tears.

Which are not nearly as delicious as Players' BBQ.

(And probably not nearly as salty, either)

PayneTrain 09-03-2016 15:04

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Anupam Goli (Post 1554213)
Surprised no one is talking about this.

125 has had the same student coach their team for years and no one talks about that.

Andrew Schreiber 09-03-2016 15:08

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by PayneTrain (Post 1554403)
125 has had the same student coach their team for years and no one talks about that.

Not true, we switched up at NEU the last two years because said "student" was busy elsewhere.

PayneTrain 09-03-2016 15:10

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Andrew Schreiber (Post 1554408)
Not true, we switched up at NEU the last two years because said "student" was busy elsewhere.

I'll have you know that I won't let your facts get in the way of my narrative.

ravenc83 09-03-2016 15:51

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition


Central Valley

Ambitious rookies with plenty of driver practice- 5817

:] ALRIGHT! We're Ambitious!

Csmarshall 09-03-2016 16:10

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
"Plenty" of driving practice
not too much... Not too little

Caleb Sykes 09-03-2016 17:03

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Csmarshall (Post 1554469)
"Plenty" of driving practice
not too much... Not too little

I think the team number on your account might be wrong.

Ginger Power 09-03-2016 17:08

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Caleb Sykes (Post 1554518)
I think the team number on your account might be wrong.

And then you watch their Reveal Video...

Caleb Sykes 09-03-2016 17:49

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Ginger Power (Post 1554523)
And then you watch their Reveal Video...

5817 is quite impressive. However, Csmarshall appears to be on 5917. What I meant by my previous post is that I assume, since he was replying to a comment about 5817 and that he has a bench grinder as his avatar, that he incorrectly set his team number when creating his account.

george.tan 09-03-2016 18:45

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Thanks for the 1817 compliment, but they did lost a few mentors this year. We'll see how they'll do this year.

I do think 3005 should be on teams radar. I'm really looking forward to the elims with 148, 624 and 2468

Citrus Dad 09-03-2016 20:04

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
OK, a write up of the AZ North Regional, but neither of the CA regionals? 4 Einstein teams at LA and 3 WC teams from the last 2 years at CVR? Who's the odd team out at CVR when the alliances form? The intrigue there alone with worth a long post...

BTW, does 254 have a new drive coach?

PayneTrain 09-03-2016 20:22

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Five event predictions and could have done more!

Hopefully senpai notices you

microbuns 10-03-2016 14:12

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Thank you for the giant writeup! I always find myself "looking forward" to this post. GTRE will be crazy!

pyrtle 10-03-2016 19:24

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
Actually playing this weekend- 900

We are indeed! Best of luck to all of the teams competing this weekend!

Rangel(kf7fdb) 10-03-2016 20:47

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Citrus Dad (Post 1554672)
OK, a write up of the AZ North Regional, but neither of the CA regionals?

Hey...

Looking Forward 10-03-2016 21:51

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Citrus Dad (Post 1554672)
OK, a write up of the AZ North Regional, but neither of the CA regionals? 4 Einstein teams at LA and 3 WC teams from the last 2 years at CVR? Who's the odd team out at CVR when the alliances form? The intrigue there alone with worth a long post...

BTW, does 254 have a new drive coach?

As was mentioned before in the prelude to the week 0.5 post, Looking Forward is using the same format we used last year (described in this post). Featured events will be varied geographically from week to week in order to get a good spread of events from around the country. Don't worry, California will have events featured this season. There are certainly compelling story lines at the CA events, however we chose other events to feature this weekend. We felt that the AZ North regional had some exceptional depth and variety of teams. It could very well be this years' surprise powerhouse event, similar to Utah last year.

TheStatisticMan 11-03-2016 00:55

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
For PNW Wilsonville, don't forget who won the district competition last year :cool:

Good luck to all the teams competing this week at Wilsonville! Excited to see many familiar teams and fresh faces among the competitors!

hardcopi 13-03-2016 14:47

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Congratulations to Average Joes, Stryke Force and the Iron Giants for winning at St Joe.

This was a tough competition for us, it wasn't until the end of day 1 that we got our cameras working and with that our aim. Our roborio just stopped responding when we got on the field in the 2nd match. Luckily the event had one we could borrow (thanks to Stryke Force for offering 1 too). This left us in the spot where our camera code was unavailable throughout day 1.

Proud of the kids though because on day 2 because they rallied and we made almost every shot.

Richard Wallace 15-03-2016 08:35

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
FiM District- St. Joseph
Quickly becoming one of the best in Michigan- 4967
Solid young team looking to break out- 5069
Contenders aiming to rack up points towards MSC- 2474, 2767, 2959, 3452, 3620

LF missed a few good robots here, most notably 858 Demons, 3546 Buc'n'Gears, and 3688 Norsemen.

However, LF's mystical oracular powers are clearly evident: when 2767 and 3620 looked at our scouting data to make the 16th pick, there were the Iron Giants, right where we needed them, to validate LF's breakout prediction. :)

Also, LF had no way of knowing that rookie 6097 would build a solid robot, play smart, pick smart (141), and captain a #5 alliance into the semis. Great job, Botcats -- and heads up for next time, LF.

lynca 15-03-2016 09:42

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
Alamo
All eyes in San Antonio will be on a pair of Texas' top powerhouses in 148 and 624. The Robowranglers struggled (relative to their standards) the last time they attended Alamo, with some early season tweaks necessary to another catapulted machine in 2014. Even if it takes a bit for 148 to dial in their launching, their excellently packaged scaling device and plenty of driver practice should give them a distinct edge over most of the field. CRyptonite will be their foremost competitor, and quite possibly their most likely partner (despite the fact that 148 and 624 have never paired up in their history). The team formerly known as the Cinco Ranch Engineering Wizards have a history of working some impressive autonomous magic, and hopefully 624 can carry that over into Stronghold with their wheeled shooter. Beyond those two, a pair of recent world champions in 1477 and 2848 will be hoping to end droughts at the regional level since 2013 and 2011 respectively. Even if the pair doesn't come out of the gate firing, they will almost certainly be adept breachers at the very least and it should position themselves well in the standings as a result. 2468 may not be quite as fast over the barriers as the top few, but they have a shooting machine with plenty of potential. While Alamo doesn't quite have the proven depth of some of the other top tier events this weekend, there are still quite a few of Texas' more hidden gems in the field. 3735 has been earning the respect of fellow competitors in recent years, but have yet to win an official award of any kind in team history. Conversely, 1817 has a well stocked award cabinet (especially if you consider individual awards, where they have 2 WFFAs and a 4 DLFAs), highlighted by a pair of regional victories. 3999 and 4063 are both bringing simple, and hopefully effective, machines that should be capable breachers and low goal scorers (with TriKzR4Kidz also featuring the potential for high goal shots). 3481 has seemingly stepped up their game this year, with a very attractive and ambitious design (albeit "low bar challenged"). 1255 will be an interesting test case for the value of opening category C defenses solo from the neutral zone, as that rare skillset may make them an attractive later selection for an alliance looking to increase their max potential score without dedicating multiple robot efforts. It may also be worth keeping an eye on 231 and 3005. Ultimately, this regional may be decided in qualifications, as if the top powerhouses are able to pair up, it might be very difficult to stop them (barring tortugas or electrical failures).

Great predictions !
148 & 624 continued the streak of facing off in the finals !

CalTran 15-03-2016 14:03

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1554121)
Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition

Greater Kansas City
Since 2009, at least one defending regional champion has repeated their victory at GKC.

Whelp. This trend died this weekend.

PayneTrain 15-03-2016 16:02

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Citrus Dad (Post 1557668)
As I noted, CVR was one of the 3 top line events this week. Likely only SVR will exceed it in quality in California this season.

As anyone else can note, that doesn't mean that it's worthy of an in-depth look. No one is offering a lot of analysis on Alabama playing an FCS team. There were x group of good teams that are the same x number of good teams there as last year. The best one was going to be picked by the highest ranked one, and they would be favored over other pairs.

If you are really offended that a faceless textbox did not do enough ego stroking, might I suggest wrapping yourself up in the comfort of 3 divisional banners and one world champion banner? Not a lot of us can.

Floodie Wowerz 15-03-2016 16:07

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by PayneTrain (Post 1557753)
If you are really offended that a faceless textbox did not do enough ego stroking, might I suggest wrapping yourself up in the comfort of 3 divisional banners and one world champion banner? Not a lot of us can.

Wow!

JABot67 15-03-2016 16:18

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1555295)
As was mentioned before in the prelude to the week 0.5 post, Looking Forward is using the same format we used last year (described in this post). Featured events will be varied geographically from week to week in order to get a good spread of events from around the country. Don't worry, California will have events featured this season. There are certainly compelling story lines at the CA events, however we chose other events to feature this weekend.

This post is a good enough explanation for why certain events were featured and certain events were not. LF does not necessarily choose to cover events based on stuff like the presumed "wow factor" of the robots debuting.

LF does what LF wants! If other CD commentors think they can add to the predictions, they can. That's what FIM Informer, PCH Informer, CHS Platter, NEForecast, INSight, and everyone else is for!

Bill Klein 15-03-2016 16:22

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Richard Wallace (Post 1557475)
LF missed a few good robots here, most notably 858 Demons, 3546 Buc'n'Gears, and 3688 Norsemen.

However, LF's mystical oracular powers are clearly evident: when 2767 and 3620 looked at our scouting data to make the 16th pick, there were the Iron Giants, right where we needed them, to validate LF's breakout prediction. :)

Also, LF had no way of knowing that rookie 6097 would build a solid robot, play smart, pick smart (141), and captain a #5 alliance into the semis. Great job, Botcats -- and heads up for next time, LF.

Richard - Thanks for the callout to the Norsemen 3688. You ran a stellar event.

Michael Corsetto 15-03-2016 16:30

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by PayneTrain (Post 1557753)
As anyone else can note, that doesn't mean that it's worthy of an in-depth look. No one is offering a lot of analysis on Alabama playing an FCS team. There were x group of good teams that are the same x number of good teams there as last year. The best one was going to be picked by the highest ranked one, and they would be favored over other pairs.

If you are really offended that a faceless textbox did not do enough ego stroking, might I suggest wrapping yourself up in the comfort of 3 divisional banners and one world champion banner? Not a lot of us can.

Amen!

I enjoy reading what LF has to say about the events they choose to highlight each week, as well as the week-to-week strategic breakdowns.

Just because the best team in FRC (254) is at an event doesn't mean in needs a full write up.

Plenty of great teams at every event, I'm not even sure how LF has the energy to choose featured events and still give a nods to all the other events. Lets not forget that we set a record Week 2 for most FRC events happening simultaneously. That's a lot of events to cover!

-Mike

Richard Wallace 15-03-2016 16:41

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Bill Klein (Post 1557768)
Richard - Thanks for the callout to the Norsemen 3688. You ran a stellar event.

Thank you for the kind words. I certainly agree St. Joe was a stellar event; however, I did not run it. That credit goes to our ridiculously overworked event coordinator Brett and volunteer coordinator Carrie, to Judge Advisor Tim, to FTAs Oliver and Ellen, to field supervisor Eddie, to Head Referee Greg, and to LRI Tearesa. And to a large number of folks in white Stronghold shirts, and quite a number (N) of Average Joes. [N is getting larger all the time.]

TheBoulderite 15-03-2016 16:57

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Looking Forward (Post 1555295)
We felt that the AZ North regional had some exceptional depth and variety of teams. It could very well be this years' surprise powerhouse event, similar to Utah last year.

I feel like it was. Some of the quarters and semis at AZN got really intense.

Citrus Dad 15-03-2016 20:29

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by PayneTrain (Post 1557753)
If you are really offended that a faceless textbox did not do enough ego stroking, might I suggest wrapping yourself up in the comfort of 3 divisional banners and one world champion banner? Not a lot of us can.

I'll leave this point, but this attack is completely misses my point. The depth of CVR needed particular attention. Note that I also called attention to LA which had even more quality on the field--we were not there. I won't call attention to Sac (where we are playing) because it doesn't have the same depth. So do not take this as some self serving statement. I saw a missed opportunity to highlight CALIFORNIA teams and made a statement about this.

GDB 15-03-2016 20:40

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
A lot of teams from the AZN regional had rocker bogie drive trains, including our own team Plasma Robotics.

It was a really interesting regional and one of the more exciting ones I have been actually a part of.

RonAyyyyyyyy 15-03-2016 20:44

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Citrus Dad (Post 1557947)
I'll leave this point, but this attack is completely misses my point. The depth of CVR needed particular attention. Note that I also called attention to LA which had even more quality on the field--we were not there. I won't call attention to Sac (where we are playing) because it doesn't have the same depth. So do not take this as some self serving statement. I saw a missed opportunity to highlight CALIFORNIA teams and made a statement about this.

Ah, yes, because California teams never get highlights, it's always those darn Arizona, Georgia, & Kansas City teams

XaulZan11 15-03-2016 20:54

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by RonAyyyyyyyy (Post 1557956)
Ah, yes, because California teams never get highlights, it's always those darn Arizona, Georgia, & Kansas City teams

And those teams 4 teams mentioned in Mexico!

PayneTrain 15-03-2016 22:43

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Citrus Dad (Post 1557947)
I'll leave this point, but this attack is completely misses my point. The depth of CVR needed particular attention. Note that I also called attention to LA which had even more quality on the field--we were not there. I won't call attention to Sac (where we are playing) because it doesn't have the same depth. So do not take this as some self serving statement. I saw a missed opportunity to highlight CALIFORNIA teams and made a statement about this.

You have every right to highlight California teams whenever you see fit, as does Looking Forward.

You have the right to advocate for your team and your region as you see fit, as do I.

I have the right to provide some obviously needed perspective when myself and a significant number of people think you're neck deep in your own kool-aid, as you have the right to belabor your point over and over and over in hopes that what you obviously perceive to be a earth-shattering injustice be corrected. That doesn't mean either of us come out of that smelling like roses.

No one has any lack of respect for 254, 1678, 1323, 701, 1671, some good rookie and second year teams, etc. But come on, it's probably not getting any more interesting in Texas this year. It's probably not getting any more interesting in Toronto this year. GKC and AZN each are part of an underrepresented part of FIRST. The ever pervasive and eternally strange fanboyism over the traditional and rising powerhouses is not being affected by Looking Forward. It's at best a service to shifting regions and places to watch interesting storylines, at worst the jerkfest that you seem to crave, but mostly just a place for a bunch of nerds to shoot the breeze before they head off to events. It's not life or death and not worthy of a lot more time.

Boltman 15-03-2016 22:55

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by PayneTrain (Post 1558032)
You have every right to highlight California teams whenever you see fit, as does Looking Forward.

You have the right to advocate for your team and your region as you see fit, as do I.

I have the right to provide some obviously needed perspective when myself and a significant number of people think you're neck deep in your own kool-aid, as you have the right to belabor your point over and over and over in hopes that what you obviously perceive to be a earth-shattering injustice be corrected. That doesn't mean either of us come out of that smelling like roses.

No one has any lack of respect for 254, 1678, 1323, 701, 1671, some good rookie and second year teams, etc. But come on, it's probably not getting any more interesting in Texas this year. It's probably not getting any more interesting in Toronto this year. GKC and AZN each are part of an underrepresented part of FIRST. The ever pervasive and eternally strange fanboyism over the traditional and rising powerhouses is not being affected by Looking Forward. It's at best a service to shifting regions and places to watch interesting storylines, at worst the jerkfest that you seem to crave, but mostly just a place for a bunch of nerds to shoot the breeze before they head off to events. It's not life or death and not worthy of a lot more time.


I think there is an east coast bias in some coverage though not only in FRC... for instance in GameSense not one mention of San Diego Regional week 1 were we as member of #8 took down #1 in QF two games.... that almost never happens in FRC and was noteworthy so is a rookie ranking #1 there over 399. But hey we are used to it, they had nothing to say when we were alliance captain 2 either in CVR after leading the pack at end of Day 1.

I agree with Citrus Dad CVR should have been highlighted more in this weeks preview with FOUR WC teams facing off rather than also-ran. That is what top 25 is a joke no one knows what is going on everywhere everyone is in their own little niche FRC world. That is why I think 'preview' or 're-cap' coverage should reflect all regions equally. In GameSense if you were not a district event you did not rate.

I'm pretty sure we played with some of the best bots the world has this weekend in CVR and would put them up in a heartbeat against Texas. Ridiculously talented top talent on display.

Kevin Leonard 15-03-2016 23:03

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Citrus Dad (Post 1557947)
I'll leave this point, but this attack is completely misses my point. The depth of CVR needed particular attention. Note that I also called attention to LA which had even more quality on the field--we were not there. I won't call attention to Sac (where we are playing) because it doesn't have the same depth. So do not take this as some self serving statement. I saw a missed opportunity to highlight CALIFORNIA teams and made a statement about this.

The difference is almost everyone knew what was going to happen at CVR.

Not to put any of the other amazing teams there down- we all know that 1323, 701, 1671, 5137, 5817 have very good machines, and everyone was already going to watch that event just to see those amazing matches.

LF can't cover every event. LF selects a few events that are stronger than usual with perhaps a less-than-certain outcome to highlight, because it makes sense to bring attention to those events.

wilsonmw04 15-03-2016 23:04

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Boltman (Post 1558040)
I agree with Citrus Dad CVR should have been highlighted more with FOUR WC teams facing off rather than also-ran.

"also-ran" is such a harsh term. Especially to the members of those teams who have worked so hard to get a robot out on the field to compete against and with those World Champions. You know you could cover that regional yourself and send it in. But that would require more work than complaining about it.

Rangel(kf7fdb) 15-03-2016 23:07

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Boltman (Post 1558040)
I think there is an east coast bias in some coverage though not only in FRC... for instance in GameSense not one mention of San Diego Regional week 1 were we as member of #8 took down #1 in QF two games.... that almost never happens in FRC and was noteworthy so is a rookie ranking #1 there over 399. But hey we are used to it, they had nothing to say when we were alliance captain 2 either in CVR after leading the pack at end of Day 1.

I agree with Citrus Dad CVR should have been highlighted more with FOUR WC teams facing off rather than also-ran. That is what top 25 is a joke no one knows what is going on everywhere everyone is in their own little niche FRC world. That is why I think coverage should reflect all regions equally. In GameSense if you were not a district event you did not rate.

I'm pretty sure we played with some of the best bots the world has this weekend in CVR and would put them up in a heartbeat against Texas. Ridiculously talented top talent on display.

Nothing is stopping you from analyzing this week's 21 events while being very careful to not put too much attention at any one event for fear of teams calling you biased.

TDav540 15-03-2016 23:11

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Boltman (Post 1558040)
I'm pretty sure we played with some of the best bots the world has this weekend in CVR and would put them up in a heartbeat against Texas. Ridiculously talented top talent on display.

Tournament of regions at IRI?

Jay O'Donnell 15-03-2016 23:15

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
If you don't like how Looking Forward writes their posts, than don't read them.

I can't believe we have to have a discussion about people not liking how LF does things. I don't see anyone else making write ups of every single event that makes everyone happy. LF can do what they want, if you'd rather your region or another specific region was highlighted why don't you do it? NE Forecast is a brand new account that I've found to be very knowledgable about New England, which I like.

Personally, I liked reading more about Arizona. I knew who to watch at CVR and LA. I know nothing about Arizona. I've come out learning more.

Boltman 15-03-2016 23:43

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Rangel(kf7fdb) (Post 1558044)
Nothing is stopping you from analyzing this week's 21 events while being very careful to not put too much attention at any one event for fear of teams calling you biased.

I am biased I like the all the California teams and a handful of others :)

Love 179 and the Texas powerhouse teams, The High rollers too... wish I knew more about Michigan and some of the others
around the country and world. I just happened to watch a lot of Florida and Texas past two seasons in scouting.

Us west coasters are used to the bias its all good. BTW thanks for this OP each week its cool to read about teams I do not know.

Boltman 15-03-2016 23:49

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Kevin Leonard (Post 1558042)
The difference is almost everyone knew what was going to happen at CVR.

Not to put any of the other amazing teams there down- we all know that 1323, 701, 1671, 5137, 5817 have very good machines, and everyone was already going to watch that event just to see those amazing matches.

LF can't cover every event. LF selects a few events that are stronger than usual with perhaps a less-than-certain outcome to highlight, because it makes sense to bring attention to those events.

So EVERYONE must have had us pegged at #1 Sat night and as Alliance captain #2 in CVR then :rolleyes: OOPs you actually listed us wow thanks (that is weird to see) . I don't think we were amazing but very good sure, we became very consistent. The others in that very good list ARE amazing in my eyes except for 701 when they are upside down :) then they are just another upside down Tortuga.

Rivet Man 15-03-2016 23:53

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Boltman (Post 1558063)
I am biased I like the all the California teams and a handful of others :)

Love 179 and the Texas powerhouse teams, The High rollers too... wish I knew more about Michigan and some of the others
around the country and world.

Us west coasters are used to the bias its all good.

Hi Boltman, long time reader, first time caller. Great name! I based mine off of yours!

I'll jump in here because I think I can help. If you want to know more about some teams then you can use both the FIRST Website and a website called TheBlueAlliance!

For example here is a Michigan team's blue alliance page (because you said you want to know more about them)
http://www.thebluealliance.com/team/67

It's a really great website where they keep track of match scores and they sometimes have videos!

Best Regards,
RM

Boltman 16-03-2016 00:01

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Rivet Man (Post 1558068)
Hi Boltman, long time reader, first time caller. Great name! I based mine off of yours!

I'll jump in here because I think I can help. If you want to know more about some teams then you can use both the FIRST Website and a website called TheBlueAlliance!

For example here is a Michigan team's blue alliance page (because you said you want to know more about them)
http://www.thebluealliance.com/team/67

It's a really great website where they keep track of match scores and they sometimes have videos!

Best Regards,
RM

Thanks I know about 67 but have not watched them yet. Thanks.

Rivet Man 16-03-2016 00:05

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Boltman (Post 1558069)
Thanks I know about 67 but have not watched them yet. Thanks.

Not a problem!

Other good Michigan teams I've heard of are Teams 33 and 469 (Who won World Championships in 2014!)

If you want to know about other teams just let me know!

Best Regards,
RM

Boltman 16-03-2016 00:08

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Rivet Man (Post 1558070)
Not a problem!

Other good Michigan teams I've heard of are Teams 33 and 469 (Who won World Championships in 2014!)

If you want to know about other teams just let me know!

Best Regards,
RM


I'll start with that and check them out. Thanks

Thad House 16-03-2016 00:30

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Rivet Man (Post 1558070)
Not a problem!

Other good Michigan teams I've heard of are Teams 33 and 469 (Who won World Championships in 2014!)

If you want to know about other teams just let me know!

Best Regards,
RM

Sorry to say this, but clearly 97525A490 is a superior rivet. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.

Richard Wallace 16-03-2016 00:52

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Thad House (Post 1558077)
Sorry to say this, but clearly 97525A490 is a superior rivet. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.

That rivet made our robot what it is today. I highly recommend it!

Another recommendation, for anyone who wants to know more about Michigan FRC teams: RoboZone. Yes, high school robotics is televised by Fox Sports Detroit. :cool:

Rivet Man 16-03-2016 00:54

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Thad House (Post 1558077)
Sorry to say this, but clearly 97525A490 is a superior rivet. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news.

Hi Thad,

I respectfully disagree, the piece part cost of ordering 97525A490 from McMaster is significantly higher than 97525A425 (130.5% price increase to give a round number).

Additionally, the choice of rivet is 100% reliant on your use case. It's important to note these two are clearly of the same class and performance levels - with your rivet just being the "big brother" of the rivet I personally selected.

Nothing against your rivet of choice, 97525A490 is actually one of my favorites as well (shoutout to 97447A652 when I'm feeling like mixing things up!).

Disclaimer: In industry practice, don't purchase rivets off of McMaster, there are better suppliers that provide on a lower piece part cost! McMaster is mainly useful for FIRST since teams tend to order low quantity and desire short lead times.

Was nice having this conversation!

Best Regards,
RM

Citrus Dad 16-03-2016 01:40

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
I should have made a direct message to Looking Forward about my concerns rather than a public post. It's really not appropriate for me to essentially hijack this thread. I'm deleting most of my posts here and I'll take the conversation off line. (I am leaving the one responding to questions about my integrity and intent. I am focused on promoting the FRC model in California and elsewhere.)

RonAyyyyyyyy 16-03-2016 08:49

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
I'll make a serious comment and leave it at this

Looking Forward is making an attempt to broadcast more areas in FRC and I think that's admirable. I already recognized all the teams they named (even 5817) as contenders in CVR, but before this post I couldn't name 5 possible contenders for Arizona or especially Georgia, so they have accomplished their goal.

In my personal opinion, I do agree that west coast FRC doesn't get enough coverage and think CVR deserved a write-up, but in the end that was LF's decision because, you know, it is their page :rolleyes:

alephzer0 16-03-2016 09:31

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
I might sound like a complete noob for asking this question.
Looking Forward referred to themselves as "We." Is Looking Forward a shared account or something? Or do they represent a group? Or is there like a place where one can submit suggestions? :confused:

Jay O'Donnell 16-03-2016 09:49

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by alephzer0 (Post 1558146)
I might sound like a complete noob for asking this question.
Looking Forward referred to themselves as "We." Is Looking Forward a shared account or something? Or do they represent a group? Or is there like a place where one can submit suggestions? :confused:

It's a group of people.

And don't worry, that's not a noob question!

alephzer0 16-03-2016 09:51

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Jay O'Donnell (Post 1558163)
It's a group of people.

And don't worry, that's not a noob question!

ok thanks

Kevin Leonard 16-03-2016 10:33

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by alephzer0 (Post 1558146)
I might sound like a complete noob for asking this question.
Looking Forward referred to themselves as "We." Is Looking Forward a shared account or something? Or do they represent a group? Or is there like a place where one can submit suggestions? :confused:

Looking Forward is Looking Forward. Do not attempt to discern any identity from Looking Forward. Those who look too hard tend to... disappear. ;)

carpedav000 16-03-2016 13:45

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
How about that 44% elimination capture rate at Tippecanoe? :eek:

WCBC 16-03-2016 14:37

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
don't worry we got you covered LF

Rivet Man 16-03-2016 14:45

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by WCBC (Post 1558330)
don't worry we got you covered LF

Hi WCBC,

I'm not exactly certain what this post was supposed to mean. You don't exactly supply context, could you help me understand? Also who is we? Not trying to tighten down on you or anything, just curious.

Best Regards,
RM

Bluebannersanon 16-03-2016 14:50

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
I think yall scared LF away :yikes: please come back LF, all this discussion is just everyone not-so-patiently waiting for week three ;)

sciencenuetzel 16-03-2016 15:11

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
I too look forward to the next LF post...

alephzer0 16-03-2016 16:30

Re: Predictions Week 2: Scaling Up the Competition
 
Quote:

Originally Posted by Kevin Leonard (Post 1558189)
Looking Forward is Looking Forward. Do not attempt to discern any identity from Looking Forward. Those who look too hard tend to... disappear. ;)

Oh


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