Graduation to the Big League
A Madden 2006 Soapbox Analysation
Monday 24 October, 2005

I can hardly believe it, but I clinched the Super Bowl last night against the Packers 20-7. It capped off an AFC leading 13-3 regular season record at my first real go at All-Pro skill level.

There were some really great games in there, after I finally started to get my passing game going. The AFC Championship game against Houston was a really tight 10-7 rallying victory, where I got really worried. The running game was totally shut down in the first half, but I discovered a way to screw with the defense. I found the defense played looser when I played in the Singleback formation, rather than the I Form (because your fullback is swapped for a 2nd tight end, who needs coverage). I was very proud of that win.

I was also proud of one of my losses, which is strange, but it was such a great game. After giving up two 60+ yard running touchdowns to New England RB Corey Dillon, I rallied to get to 14-14 with some aerial prowess. In high winds, my 50 yard field goal attempt swayed left and rebounded off the crossbar; their 52 yarder stuck to win the game 17-14 in regulation.

All-Madden won't be a breeze, with most assists disabled and QB Vision being centred on the screen rather than locking onto a receiver before the snap. Basically, I need more time in the pocket to throw an accurate pass. I might need to improve my offensive line with a trade or two. And of course, a quarterback. That saga is ongoing as my draftee isn't anywhere near good enough to step in.

Last time I wrote here, I claimed that I was winning games from my rushing efforts. That's not even correct. Ever since I started, it's been defense. They may not produce turnovers, but in terms of getting big stops when the ball is in the air, they're fantastic. I didn't concede three offensive touchdowns in one game all season. Only against good teams do the opposition get a big drive with 3+ first downs. I call the play quite aggressively at times, so a lot of scores against my team come on big one-off plays. If I get a lead, I enjoy the luxury of playing 2 Man Under and being able to rely on my cornerbacks to knock down most passes while I work on getting a pass rush going with my defensive line.

I don't expect to win the Superbowl this year on All-Madden. I'll be really pleased with a playoff spot! The offense will take time to adjust, so I'll guess my defense will be the key in keeping the game in check until I get it going. Hopefully by 8 games, I'll be confident and no worse than 3-5.

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