For past 3 months VG Sports Writer, Kobra, has been hiding out in
the lab perfecting his game. This year he has been attracted to
the Redskins playbook and decided to put together his most
comprehensive breakdown to date.
If you are looking for a playbook that you can run different
types of schemes from, then the Redskins playbook is a great
choice. With the ability to run any scheme, you can keep your
opponent off balance.
For instance, if you run the compression offense, there are
several compressed formations within the playbook. These include
the I Form Close, Singleback 4WR Stack, and Singleback Trips
Bunch.
If you want to run a spread offense with no problem you will find
the Singleback 4WR Spread and Singleback Trips WR.
If you want to run a power run game scheme, the Redskins playbook
has got you covered with such power running formations as the I
Form Twin TE, Singleback Big Jumbo Wing, Strong H Twin TE, and
Weak I H Twin TE.
Here are just some of the things you will find in this guide:
Play Breakdowns Galore!!
Kobra breaks down a ton of plays from the Redskins playbooks.
Everything from 2 back sets to Singleback to Shotgun is covered
with insane detail!
Bump-n-Run Beaters
I went crazy in this section of the book on showing all types of
bump-n-run man beaters. You will want to spend a lot of time in
this section. Many different formations are covered in this
section of the book.
Routes Bumped, But Still Bump-n-Run Beaters
Despite this routes being jammed at the line of scrimmage, they
are still good routes to call to beat bump-n-run coverage.
Reading One Side Of The Field
This section will help those who have problems reading the whole
field once the ball is snapped. Instead of reading the whole
field, I show how to read half the field to help make things
easier.
Keying on a Defender
Rather reading the defense to see if it’s man or zone coverage, I
show how sometimes I key on a particular defender to decide on
where the ball needs to go.
Snap While the Play Screen is Still Up
A nice little trick to help you read the outside coverage quicker
and faster.
Dealing With 11 Man Coverage
A few tips that I use to deal with my opponent dropping 11 men
into pass coverage.
Formation Shifts
Kobra shows some plays he like to use formation shifts with. In
this section he doesn't go to crazy with it because throughout
the rest of playbook I show a lot of plays that have formation
shifts involved. However, there is still a good amount of plays
you will find here.
Motion Within The Redskins Formations
You can create a lot of unique formations in the Redskins
playbook.
Vision Cone & the Quick Pass
Believe it or not a lot of players don’t like the vision cone. In
this section of the book, I show how those who don’t like to use
the cone, can use the quick pass to avoid the using the cone.
Angle Fade Route
If you have the filmroom, you know about this route already.
RB Angle and Circle Route. Two of the best pass routes in the
game because of the low risk of the pass being picked off. The
Redskins playbook has plenty of these type of routes. Throw in
the fact they call be pulled, makes them that much more potent.
AND THIS IS JUST THE TIP OF THE ICEBERG!
To get more information about how you can get your hands on this
awesome guide, go to:
http://www.maddentips.com/redskins
Wednesday, December 06, 2006
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Alternate Uniforms Update
Quick update on the Alternate Uniform downloads. I have received word that they will be available tonight, potentially in the wee hours of the morning. We'll let you know as soon as we see them.
Wednesday, November 29, 2006
Madden Alternate Uniforms - Coming Tomorrow
Alternate uniforms for both NCAA 07 and Madden NFL 07 on the XBOX 360 are scheduled to be available tomorrow via the XBOX Live Marketplace, at no cost to download. I'll post some pics up later tonight.
Madden NFL 07
• AFC East Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Bills, Jets & Patriots; alternate uniform for the Dolphins.
• AFC North Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Steelers & Browns; alternate uniforms for the Bengals & Ravens.
• AFC South Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniform for the Titans; alternate uniforms for the Colts, Texans & Jaguars.
• AFC West Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Broncos, Chargers, Chiefs & Raiders.
• NFC East Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Cowboys, Eagles, Giants & Redskins.
• NFC North Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Bears, Lions & Packers; 2005 season uniform for the Vikings
• NFC South Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Bucs, Falcons & Saints; alternate uniform for the Panthers.
• NFC West Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Cardinals, 49ers, Rams & Seahawks.
NOTE: All Madden uniforms are either throwback uniforms or alternate uniforms. The throwback uniforms were either the 75th Anniversary uniforms that were worn in the 1994-1995 season; for teams that aren’t 75 years old, the throwbacks were worn in the league, but not during the anniversary season. Alternate uniforms were uniforms teams wore at least once in the 2005 season.
NCAA Football 07
• Alt Uniforms - Big 10, Pac 10, Notre Dame: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan St., Northwestern, Purdue, Wisconsin, Notre Dame, Arizona, Cal, Oregon, Stanford, Washington, WSU
• Alt Uniforms – ACC: Clemson, Duke, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Maryland, Miami, North Carolina, NC State, Wake Forest
• Alt Uniforms - Big East, Conf. USA: Cincinnati, Connecticut Louisville, Pittsburgh, Rutgers, USF, Syracuse, West Virginia, Marshall, UCF, Houston
• Alt Uniforms - SEC, Mtn. West: Florida, Ole Miss, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, Colorado State, UNLV, San Diego State, TCU, Utah, Wyoming
• Alt Uniforms - Big 12, WAC: Baylor, Colorado, Iowa St, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma St, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Boise St, Hawaii, LA Tech, Nevada, Utah St
Madden NFL 07
• AFC East Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Bills, Jets & Patriots; alternate uniform for the Dolphins.
• AFC North Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Steelers & Browns; alternate uniforms for the Bengals & Ravens.
• AFC South Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniform for the Titans; alternate uniforms for the Colts, Texans & Jaguars.
• AFC West Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Broncos, Chargers, Chiefs & Raiders.
• NFC East Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Cowboys, Eagles, Giants & Redskins.
• NFC North Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Bears, Lions & Packers; 2005 season uniform for the Vikings
• NFC South Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Bucs, Falcons & Saints; alternate uniform for the Panthers.
• NFC West Throwback Uniforms: Throwback uniforms for the Cardinals, 49ers, Rams & Seahawks.
NOTE: All Madden uniforms are either throwback uniforms or alternate uniforms. The throwback uniforms were either the 75th Anniversary uniforms that were worn in the 1994-1995 season; for teams that aren’t 75 years old, the throwbacks were worn in the league, but not during the anniversary season. Alternate uniforms were uniforms teams wore at least once in the 2005 season.
NCAA Football 07
• Alt Uniforms - Big 10, Pac 10, Notre Dame: Illinois, Indiana, Michigan St., Northwestern, Purdue, Wisconsin, Notre Dame, Arizona, Cal, Oregon, Stanford, Washington, WSU
• Alt Uniforms – ACC: Clemson, Duke, Florida State, Georgia Tech, Maryland, Miami, North Carolina, NC State, Wake Forest
• Alt Uniforms - Big East, Conf. USA: Cincinnati, Connecticut Louisville, Pittsburgh, Rutgers, USF, Syracuse, West Virginia, Marshall, UCF, Houston
• Alt Uniforms - SEC, Mtn. West: Florida, Ole Miss, South Carolina, Tennessee, Vanderbilt, Colorado State, UNLV, San Diego State, TCU, Utah, Wyoming
• Alt Uniforms - Big 12, WAC: Baylor, Colorado, Iowa St, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma St, Texas A&M, Texas Tech, Boise St, Hawaii, LA Tech, Nevada, Utah St
Wednesday, November 22, 2006
Madden Alternate Uniforms - Pats Preview
We should have some info by the middle of next week about how the Alternate Uniforms will work. In the meantime, here is a preview of the Pats Alternate unis.
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Hall of Fame Stadium on Xbox Live
Below you can find 4 screens of the NFL Hall Of Fame stadium which will be live on the XBOX marketplace for 300 points this coming Thursday, November 16th.
From what we hear you can also expect to see alternate uniforms available before too much longer.
From what we hear you can also expect to see alternate uniforms available before too much longer.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
Exclusive 45 Minute Strategy Call
I got on the phone the other night and spent 45 minutes with one of my staff writers discussing the Compression Offense. This scheme is used by just about every top baller and has led multiple players to EA Madden Challenge tournament victories.
You will get to hear how Big B began to research the compression offense as well as discover the key components of running this offensive scheme. There is some incredible information here that will help you improve your game no matter what level of player you are.
This call was recorded and is available for free in MP3 format.
To download your copy, click here!
You will get to hear how Big B began to research the compression offense as well as discover the key components of running this offensive scheme. There is some incredible information here that will help you improve your game no matter what level of player you are.
This call was recorded and is available for free in MP3 format.
To download your copy, click here!
Monday, November 06, 2006
Thoughts from Compression Author, Big B
I would like to thank everyone for buying this year's guide of "Compression 301: Enter the West Coast Offense". We all know that the west coast offense is a scheme or type of system that has been used in the NFL for some time. This quick passing attack allows offenses to move the ball by using short passes and running the ball.
In the early days not many teams used compressed sets to run the west coast offense. They used split backs, weak, a strong I sets. Once defenses began to make defensive schemes for this system, the offensive coordinators made adjustments. They went to using compressed sets. Using compressed sets made the WCO harder to defend.
Then the use of motion also put pressure on the defense. Now we come to Madden 07. The compression is one of the leading sets in the game. EA has added new sets every year. Then if you looked real close you will find that 90% of your WCO playbooks were compressed. Oakland, Tampa Bay, Seattle, Denver, and a host of others were very heavy in compressed sets.
I saw people win tourneys using compressed sets. When you add the quick passing scheme of the WCO in compressed sets you are now taking the scheme to another level. This helps with pass protection. The line don't need to hold blocks as long. This system is harder to defend because you take away the time the defense has to set-up.
Many of the playbooks have plays that don't require you to make any adjustments. These type of plays cut down on the defensive pre-snap adjustments. You can force the defense to run a base sets. Then with random blitz angles it makes it harder to genrate pressure. The need for shotgun isn't as big now. So running compressed sets in a WCO fashion allows you to keep the defense on its toes and allows you to run/pass the ball.
This scheme also allows you to work the clock and move the chains. Lastly, I posted 12 plays from the WBC players. Two of them are EA Sports Madden Challenge Regional winners...Marc Dawg and WBC Brusk. I also did a break down of 3 playbooks and their key formation shifts. You still have the basic sections to help you fine tune areas so that you can run the compression scheme easier. All in all I hope you enjoyed this year's guide.
You all made "Compression 201" the leading selling guide last year next to our Virtual Playbbok. Many felt that writing a scheme book wouldn't work, but the people of the community felt differently about that. So to show my thanks for supporting my product I will give the 201 guide away for free when you buy 301.
This is my way of saying thanks for your supoort and making the compression one of the best syetems out there to date. For more information go to:
www.maddentips.com/compression301
In the early days not many teams used compressed sets to run the west coast offense. They used split backs, weak, a strong I sets. Once defenses began to make defensive schemes for this system, the offensive coordinators made adjustments. They went to using compressed sets. Using compressed sets made the WCO harder to defend.
Then the use of motion also put pressure on the defense. Now we come to Madden 07. The compression is one of the leading sets in the game. EA has added new sets every year. Then if you looked real close you will find that 90% of your WCO playbooks were compressed. Oakland, Tampa Bay, Seattle, Denver, and a host of others were very heavy in compressed sets.
I saw people win tourneys using compressed sets. When you add the quick passing scheme of the WCO in compressed sets you are now taking the scheme to another level. This helps with pass protection. The line don't need to hold blocks as long. This system is harder to defend because you take away the time the defense has to set-up.
Many of the playbooks have plays that don't require you to make any adjustments. These type of plays cut down on the defensive pre-snap adjustments. You can force the defense to run a base sets. Then with random blitz angles it makes it harder to genrate pressure. The need for shotgun isn't as big now. So running compressed sets in a WCO fashion allows you to keep the defense on its toes and allows you to run/pass the ball.
This scheme also allows you to work the clock and move the chains. Lastly, I posted 12 plays from the WBC players. Two of them are EA Sports Madden Challenge Regional winners...Marc Dawg and WBC Brusk. I also did a break down of 3 playbooks and their key formation shifts. You still have the basic sections to help you fine tune areas so that you can run the compression scheme easier. All in all I hope you enjoyed this year's guide.
You all made "Compression 201" the leading selling guide last year next to our Virtual Playbbok. Many felt that writing a scheme book wouldn't work, but the people of the community felt differently about that. So to show my thanks for supporting my product I will give the 201 guide away for free when you buy 301.
This is my way of saying thanks for your supoort and making the compression one of the best syetems out there to date. For more information go to:
www.maddentips.com/compression301
Thursday, November 02, 2006
Compression Guide 301 Released!
"What If You Could 'Spy' On the Lab Sessions of Some of the Best Players In The Country (including 2 EA Madden Challenge 07 Regional Champs)...
And Ethically Steal* Their Step-By-Step Secrets On Moving The Ball at Will and Lighting Up The Scoreboard Again And Again?"
VG Sports is at it again with the release of the 2007 edition of the Compression Guide. In this guide, Big B breaks down the secrets that his crew, the WBC, has used to capture 5 EA Sports Madden Challenge Regionals.
Big B takes you through step by step covering pass protection, progressions, marrying routes and more...
To find out more about this guide, go to http://www.maddentips.com/compression301
And Ethically Steal* Their Step-By-Step Secrets On Moving The Ball at Will and Lighting Up The Scoreboard Again And Again?"
VG Sports is at it again with the release of the 2007 edition of the Compression Guide. In this guide, Big B breaks down the secrets that his crew, the WBC, has used to capture 5 EA Sports Madden Challenge Regionals.
Big B takes you through step by step covering pass protection, progressions, marrying routes and more...
To find out more about this guide, go to http://www.maddentips.com/compression301
Friday, October 27, 2006
Interview with SSN - Madden League Provider
Recently VG had the opportunity to sit down with Larry Dickerson of Simsportsnet.com to find out a little bit more about what they do to support leagues in the Madden Community. I've included the interview below.
1. What is Simsportsnet.com?
SSN is an online community for Madden players featuring a league management tool and search tools displaying updated roster and playbook information.
2. What makes SSN’s league manager different from other league managers out there?
The primary difference is SSN’s ability to offer automatic game statistics and roster downloads.
3. So you do not have to input any stats manually?
No. We take your game result files from your Madden franchise and automatically import them into our site. No manual stat input.
4. What systems are the auto stats available for?
PS2, Xbox and the PC. Auto stats for the Xbox 360 are coming soon.
5. What are some other unique features you get with SSN?
Customize your league home page. We give you the template and you can lay your page out any way you like. Display league schedule, standings, league leaders and so much more.
Real time online transactions. Make trades, drop players or add free agents. All in real time directly thru the site. Shop for trades by putting players on the block and display them to the entire league.
Free agent bidding is cool too. When you want to sign a free agent you must negotiate terms with his agent. If they find the offer satisfactory there will be a 24 hour time period where other owners can try to out bid you. Other team owners can not see your offer but they can see your cap space and must make an educated guess as to what will get the deal done. If you are the top bid that free agent automatically signs with your team and appears on your roster.
6. Where can you go to see a sample of one of the leagues hosted on your site?
http://www.simsportsnet.com/madden/leaguemanager/leaguehome.asp?leagueid=204
7. One of the major strengths SSN has is your stat tools. Are there any other useful stat tools you offer?
Yes. Madden players can point their emails from the game server to us and we display all there online games played. You get box scores from all games and your overall user stats accumulate. This is great information if you like to chart your progress online or if you want to scout other online players.
To view instructions on this process go to:
http://www.simsportsnet.com/products/product-mygamespace.asp
8. Tell us about your community. Do you offer a standard forum?
We are not a forum. Our community is called “My Game-Space”. This is a spin off of the popular My Space but it is targeted to gamers. You can customize your personal Game Space page by adding in a background and choosing from our many modules to import to your page. You can utilize our message center and chat feature to communicate with other members. You can add a juke box and video clips. You are also able to bring in modules from your leagues hosted by SSN. Import league schedules, standings and just about anything else you find useful.
My game space is where you will find your online game results posted. There is a scrolling ticker with your last few games. If you click recap you can see the box score of that game. There are many other links to see all of your game scores and overall statistics.
For a sample go to:
http://www.simsportsnet.com/users/user-home.asp?user=dokken
9. Is there any thing else you would like to tell us about SSN’s offering?
Yes. We have the ability to provide Throw back games for the PS2 for online game play. We have teams dating back to the 1957 49ers. These teams have real names and real numbers. SSN is the only place you can play with the great teams online. We would be happy to provide VG Sports with some games to hand out to its members for free.
10. In conclusion what would you like to tell the Madden community about SSN?
SSN is a fantastic tool for Madden. There is nothing else out like what we offer. SSN provides bar none the best roster presentation on the web. We offer the updated rosters the day they are released.
We ask the community to come to www.simsportsnet.com and see for yourself. Simsportsnet is the only tool with auto stats, the only place with great teams for online play and the only community that gives you your own personal space (My Game-Space) to be creative and communicate with other players around the world.
For more information please contact us at:
SSNCommissioner@simsportsnet.com
Thanks
Larry & Keith
SSN Principals
1. What is Simsportsnet.com?
SSN is an online community for Madden players featuring a league management tool and search tools displaying updated roster and playbook information.
2. What makes SSN’s league manager different from other league managers out there?
The primary difference is SSN’s ability to offer automatic game statistics and roster downloads.
3. So you do not have to input any stats manually?
No. We take your game result files from your Madden franchise and automatically import them into our site. No manual stat input.
4. What systems are the auto stats available for?
PS2, Xbox and the PC. Auto stats for the Xbox 360 are coming soon.
5. What are some other unique features you get with SSN?
Customize your league home page. We give you the template and you can lay your page out any way you like. Display league schedule, standings, league leaders and so much more.
Real time online transactions. Make trades, drop players or add free agents. All in real time directly thru the site. Shop for trades by putting players on the block and display them to the entire league.
Free agent bidding is cool too. When you want to sign a free agent you must negotiate terms with his agent. If they find the offer satisfactory there will be a 24 hour time period where other owners can try to out bid you. Other team owners can not see your offer but they can see your cap space and must make an educated guess as to what will get the deal done. If you are the top bid that free agent automatically signs with your team and appears on your roster.
6. Where can you go to see a sample of one of the leagues hosted on your site?
http://www.simsportsnet.com/madden/leaguemanager/leaguehome.asp?leagueid=204
7. One of the major strengths SSN has is your stat tools. Are there any other useful stat tools you offer?
Yes. Madden players can point their emails from the game server to us and we display all there online games played. You get box scores from all games and your overall user stats accumulate. This is great information if you like to chart your progress online or if you want to scout other online players.
To view instructions on this process go to:
http://www.simsportsnet.com/products/product-mygamespace.asp
8. Tell us about your community. Do you offer a standard forum?
We are not a forum. Our community is called “My Game-Space”. This is a spin off of the popular My Space but it is targeted to gamers. You can customize your personal Game Space page by adding in a background and choosing from our many modules to import to your page. You can utilize our message center and chat feature to communicate with other members. You can add a juke box and video clips. You are also able to bring in modules from your leagues hosted by SSN. Import league schedules, standings and just about anything else you find useful.
My game space is where you will find your online game results posted. There is a scrolling ticker with your last few games. If you click recap you can see the box score of that game. There are many other links to see all of your game scores and overall statistics.
For a sample go to:
http://www.simsportsnet.com/users/user-home.asp?user=dokken
9. Is there any thing else you would like to tell us about SSN’s offering?
Yes. We have the ability to provide Throw back games for the PS2 for online game play. We have teams dating back to the 1957 49ers. These teams have real names and real numbers. SSN is the only place you can play with the great teams online. We would be happy to provide VG Sports with some games to hand out to its members for free.
10. In conclusion what would you like to tell the Madden community about SSN?
SSN is a fantastic tool for Madden. There is nothing else out like what we offer. SSN provides bar none the best roster presentation on the web. We offer the updated rosters the day they are released.
We ask the community to come to www.simsportsnet.com and see for yourself. Simsportsnet is the only tool with auto stats, the only place with great teams for online play and the only community that gives you your own personal space (My Game-Space) to be creative and communicate with other players around the world.
For more information please contact us at:
SSNCommissioner@simsportsnet.com
Thanks
Larry & Keith
SSN Principals
Tuesday, October 03, 2006
Madden 07 for Xbox 360 - Patch
We have been notifed by EA Sports that a patch has been released for Madden 07 on the Xbox 360. The most noticeable fix is the fatigue issue that has been in the game since it came out.
Get online and and download the patch!!
Get online and and download the patch!!
EA Sports Coaches Corner
EA Sports has launced a new initiative called Coaches Corner. This is a place for members in the Madden community to post their own favorite strategies. We will be visiting from time to time and posting there as well. Kobra has broken down one of this favorite route combinations on the site.
Click here Kobra's Combination Route Breakdown
Click here Kobra's Combination Route Breakdown
Friday, August 11, 2006
Madden 07 Rosters & Ratings - VG Sports Style
We really appreciate IGN dropping the ratings for everybody, but their format leaves a bit to be desired.
We've cleaned things up a bit and put them in a format that is easier on the eyes. We've included only the most important attributes for each position, as well as our one-of-a-kind visual power ratings system so that you can tell at a glance where your team's strengths and weaknesses lie.
Also, with Run to Daylight and Lead Blocking being the big feature this year, we have put together something we call the Run Power Rating.
This is a VG Sports special. We've combined the most important run blocking ratings for each team's offensive line to give you a visual indicator of which teams you can pound the rock with best.
Anyway, you can view these all at http://www.maddentips.com/rosters
We've cleaned things up a bit and put them in a format that is easier on the eyes. We've included only the most important attributes for each position, as well as our one-of-a-kind visual power ratings system so that you can tell at a glance where your team's strengths and weaknesses lie.
Also, with Run to Daylight and Lead Blocking being the big feature this year, we have put together something we call the Run Power Rating.
This is a VG Sports special. We've combined the most important run blocking ratings for each team's offensive line to give you a visual indicator of which teams you can pound the rock with best.
Anyway, you can view these all at http://www.maddentips.com/rosters
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Season behind the Season - Part IV
By Ron Jackson, VG Sports
Tournament Style player prep: Ten months and a few days since the release of the last Madden and I'm just starting to wind down. Things are crazy all year. From the first day I get the game until the next one comes out it’s a constant effort to get better, to keep labbing and trying to find something in the game that I can use to exploit my opponents defense. People have all sorts of names for this, but they rarely just give us the credit for developing the skill to consistently make some aspect of the game work....
Full Article
Tournament Style player prep: Ten months and a few days since the release of the last Madden and I'm just starting to wind down. Things are crazy all year. From the first day I get the game until the next one comes out it’s a constant effort to get better, to keep labbing and trying to find something in the game that I can use to exploit my opponents defense. People have all sorts of names for this, but they rarely just give us the credit for developing the skill to consistently make some aspect of the game work....
Full Article
Madden Challenge Schedule
Looks like we are still looking at Xbox 1 for Pros and Xbox 360 for Rookie challenge.
2006 EA SPORTS MADDEN CHALLENGE
Schedule
DAY DATE SCHEDULE VENUE
Friday 1-Sep 1 Denver Invesco Field
Sunday 3-Sep 2 Minneapolis MetroDome
Saturday 9-Sep 3 Indianapolis RCA Dome
Sunday 10-Sep 4 Chicago Solider Field
Saturday 16-Sep 5 Green Bay Lambeau Atrium
Sunday 17-Sep 6 Detroit Ford Field
Saturday 23-Sep 7 Atlanta Lenox Mall
Sunday 24-Sep 8 New Orleans Superdome
Saturday 30-Sep 9 Cincinnati Newport on the Levee
Sunday 1-Oct 10 Pittsburgh Heinz Field
Saturday 7-Oct 11 Boston Gillette Stadium
Sunday 8-Oct 12 New York Grand Central Station
Saturday 14-Oct 13 New Jersey Jersey City Mall
Sunday 15-Oct 14 Philadelphia King of Prussia Mall
Saturday 21-Oct 15 Baltimore M & T Bank Stadium
Sunday 22-Oct 16 Washington DC Fed Ex Field
Saturday 28-Oct 17 Charlotte Concord Mills
Sunday 29-Oct 18 Tampa Raymond James Stadium
Saturday 4-Nov 19 Houston Reliant Stadium Park
Sunday 5-Nov 20 Dallas Texas Stadium
Saturday 11-Nov 21 Phoenix Cardinal Stadium
Sunday 12-Nov 22 San Diego Qualcomm Stadium
Saturday 18-Nov 23 Los Angeles Hollywood & Highland
Sunday 19-Nov 24 Oakland McAfee Coliseum
Friday 24-Nov 25 Seattle Qwest Field
Sunday 26-Nov 26 San Francisco Metreon
International - TBD
27-Jan 27 Mexico city, Mexico TBD
13-Jan 28 Toronto, Canada TBD
4-Feb 29 UK, London TBD
4-Feb 30 Frankfurt,Germany TBD
Jan 31 ASIA TBD
Online tournament
Nov-feb 32 online
2006 EA SPORTS MADDEN CHALLENGE
Schedule
DAY DATE SCHEDULE VENUE
Friday 1-Sep 1 Denver Invesco Field
Sunday 3-Sep 2 Minneapolis MetroDome
Saturday 9-Sep 3 Indianapolis RCA Dome
Sunday 10-Sep 4 Chicago Solider Field
Saturday 16-Sep 5 Green Bay Lambeau Atrium
Sunday 17-Sep 6 Detroit Ford Field
Saturday 23-Sep 7 Atlanta Lenox Mall
Sunday 24-Sep 8 New Orleans Superdome
Saturday 30-Sep 9 Cincinnati Newport on the Levee
Sunday 1-Oct 10 Pittsburgh Heinz Field
Saturday 7-Oct 11 Boston Gillette Stadium
Sunday 8-Oct 12 New York Grand Central Station
Saturday 14-Oct 13 New Jersey Jersey City Mall
Sunday 15-Oct 14 Philadelphia King of Prussia Mall
Saturday 21-Oct 15 Baltimore M & T Bank Stadium
Sunday 22-Oct 16 Washington DC Fed Ex Field
Saturday 28-Oct 17 Charlotte Concord Mills
Sunday 29-Oct 18 Tampa Raymond James Stadium
Saturday 4-Nov 19 Houston Reliant Stadium Park
Sunday 5-Nov 20 Dallas Texas Stadium
Saturday 11-Nov 21 Phoenix Cardinal Stadium
Sunday 12-Nov 22 San Diego Qualcomm Stadium
Saturday 18-Nov 23 Los Angeles Hollywood & Highland
Sunday 19-Nov 24 Oakland McAfee Coliseum
Friday 24-Nov 25 Seattle Qwest Field
Sunday 26-Nov 26 San Francisco Metreon
International - TBD
27-Jan 27 Mexico city, Mexico TBD
13-Jan 28 Toronto, Canada TBD
4-Feb 29 UK, London TBD
4-Feb 30 Frankfurt,Germany TBD
Jan 31 ASIA TBD
Online tournament
Nov-feb 32 online
Tuesday, August 08, 2006
Madden Challenge Announcement
From what we hear the official announcement will be made tomorrow. We'll have our ears open and our eyes peeled. We'll let you know asap what we find out. In any event, get those fingers warmed up and get ready to compete!
ESPN/EA Sports Madden PPV
Last week the first Madden related PPV hit televisions and
computers all over the world. If you are a fan of Madden it is
worth seeing just for the production value alone.
It is obvious that ESPN really put some effort into making this a
quality TV show. The set was excellent and the camera work was
gritty and kept your attention.
Content wise, the strategies weren't exceptionally deep for the
hardcore player, but there were some good nuggets to be found
there no matter what your skill level is.
You definitely got into the mind of the tournament player a bit
as you can see how they prepare to play the game. Their style
may not be your cup of tea as far as how to play the game, but
their approach is worth learning from.
As I mentioned above, there were some good sections involving how
the guys use bump-n-run with their linebackers as well as tips on
manually controlling your players. This is valuable stuff.
If you have ever wondered the thought process behind what the
producers do with the game and how they view the community, then
this show is a good fit for you as well.
All in all, I was impressed with the show for a first effort and
can recommend it to you if you love the game of Madden!
Madden 07 is only a few weeks away. If you haven't had a chance
to check out the Virtual Playbook for Madden, hit up our main
site at:
http://www.maddentips.com
computers all over the world. If you are a fan of Madden it is
worth seeing just for the production value alone.
It is obvious that ESPN really put some effort into making this a
quality TV show. The set was excellent and the camera work was
gritty and kept your attention.
Content wise, the strategies weren't exceptionally deep for the
hardcore player, but there were some good nuggets to be found
there no matter what your skill level is.
You definitely got into the mind of the tournament player a bit
as you can see how they prepare to play the game. Their style
may not be your cup of tea as far as how to play the game, but
their approach is worth learning from.
As I mentioned above, there were some good sections involving how
the guys use bump-n-run with their linebackers as well as tips on
manually controlling your players. This is valuable stuff.
If you have ever wondered the thought process behind what the
producers do with the game and how they view the community, then
this show is a good fit for you as well.
All in all, I was impressed with the show for a first effort and
can recommend it to you if you love the game of Madden!
Madden 07 is only a few weeks away. If you haven't had a chance
to check out the Virtual Playbook for Madden, hit up our main
site at:
http://www.maddentips.com
Madden 07 Q&A
Several members of the VG Team recently had the opportunity to
head down to EA Tiburon to check out Madden 07 for a couple of
days.
When we got back, Big B & Ron hosted a Q&A on the forums. We've
included some of these questions and answers here.
Q: How was the 360? Was it better than 06? Most people were
disappointed with last year, will we be happy this year with the
360?
Big B: Very good game. Once they get the other things from
current to next gen....it will no doubt be the best game ever.
Right now the game is off the chain. It felt like the old days.
No audibles, formation shifting.....just str8 work.
Think of the passing like 05 without the rocket. If you have a
player that is 6'5" vs. a DB at 5'11" the taller player will get
up. I also feel that the manual defending is easier. This game is
about pounding the rock, and running routes.
Big B: The high pass is toned down. Now if you have a big WR he
will get up. The thing is that you can defend it better. Zone
seems to help when you were a manual defender.
You can play they area that the CPU isn't playing. Like the LB in
a hook zone will play underneath. You would have to play over top
with the safety for the easy pick. If they're big they will get
up. One thing is that you can't depend on the cpu to catch for
you as much as before. Yes, guys you need some stick to get
things done to a degree this year.
They do what they do they do best. If they're a smaller back they
will do a series of moves to get free. If they're big they try to
truck the defender. If you're between the tackles and you need to
get past with a smaller back, he will get skinny.
Q: What about screens?
Big B: The screen is off the chain. Just replace the truck stick
with the highlight stick. Nothing changed all that much. You will
be better off using the analog to generate jukes and moves. This
allows you to get the most out of your player. Like when you had
Bush you hit up for the truck stick (highlight) and he will do a
swimming like spin to break the hit stick. Then if another
defender is coming you tap right and he will do a quick juke and
be out.
Q: Do defenders still get "sucked" into blocks?
Big B: No, they don't as bad as before. Line play has a much
better feel to it. Not as scripted.
Q: How did user controlled player's feel in contrast to last
year? (i.e., are they still sluggish with their movement, or have
they been polished up?)
Big B: Better my man. I was able to move around better. The
movement isn't as tight as current gen, but much improved from
last year.
Q: What's your take on the degrading field conditions?
Big B: The field was off the chain. When I was in practice mode
you can see the path of the routes I ran because the grass broke
down because of me running the play over and over again. Wet
weather conditions were crazy as well.
Q: How is the All-Madden AI, will I continue to see Chris Samuels
put on his back by Osi Umenyiora or Carlos Emmons cover S. Moss
on a post.
Big B: It's decent. Samuels was doing his thing when I was
playing with them. You will see that the LB's in the game are
getting faster. There has been a move to speed TEs and LBs in the
NFL. You will be surprised at who upgraded their teams.
Q: If I come out in I form big and the defense comes out in
quarters will I finally be able to pound the rock like I should
be able too?
Big B: Yes you can. The MLB gets in sometimes, but you can
control your own blocking now. So you can fix the problems now.
Run the ball and if you see someone get through, grab your guys
and plug that hole. Please everyone who doesn't lab the run, get
ready to spend some serious time in practice mode. Many people
will be here to beat our forums up for some good run defense. If
you lived just by the run commit feature, you are pretty much
done this year. Practice!
To view more of the Q&A, be sure to visit the VG Sports forums at
http://www.maddentips.com/forums
head down to EA Tiburon to check out Madden 07 for a couple of
days.
When we got back, Big B & Ron hosted a Q&A on the forums. We've
included some of these questions and answers here.
Q: How was the 360? Was it better than 06? Most people were
disappointed with last year, will we be happy this year with the
360?
Big B: Very good game. Once they get the other things from
current to next gen....it will no doubt be the best game ever.
Right now the game is off the chain. It felt like the old days.
No audibles, formation shifting.....just str8 work.
Think of the passing like 05 without the rocket. If you have a
player that is 6'5" vs. a DB at 5'11" the taller player will get
up. I also feel that the manual defending is easier. This game is
about pounding the rock, and running routes.
Big B: The high pass is toned down. Now if you have a big WR he
will get up. The thing is that you can defend it better. Zone
seems to help when you were a manual defender.
You can play they area that the CPU isn't playing. Like the LB in
a hook zone will play underneath. You would have to play over top
with the safety for the easy pick. If they're big they will get
up. One thing is that you can't depend on the cpu to catch for
you as much as before. Yes, guys you need some stick to get
things done to a degree this year.
They do what they do they do best. If they're a smaller back they
will do a series of moves to get free. If they're big they try to
truck the defender. If you're between the tackles and you need to
get past with a smaller back, he will get skinny.
Q: What about screens?
Big B: The screen is off the chain. Just replace the truck stick
with the highlight stick. Nothing changed all that much. You will
be better off using the analog to generate jukes and moves. This
allows you to get the most out of your player. Like when you had
Bush you hit up for the truck stick (highlight) and he will do a
swimming like spin to break the hit stick. Then if another
defender is coming you tap right and he will do a quick juke and
be out.
Q: Do defenders still get "sucked" into blocks?
Big B: No, they don't as bad as before. Line play has a much
better feel to it. Not as scripted.
Q: How did user controlled player's feel in contrast to last
year? (i.e., are they still sluggish with their movement, or have
they been polished up?)
Big B: Better my man. I was able to move around better. The
movement isn't as tight as current gen, but much improved from
last year.
Q: What's your take on the degrading field conditions?
Big B: The field was off the chain. When I was in practice mode
you can see the path of the routes I ran because the grass broke
down because of me running the play over and over again. Wet
weather conditions were crazy as well.
Q: How is the All-Madden AI, will I continue to see Chris Samuels
put on his back by Osi Umenyiora or Carlos Emmons cover S. Moss
on a post.
Big B: It's decent. Samuels was doing his thing when I was
playing with them. You will see that the LB's in the game are
getting faster. There has been a move to speed TEs and LBs in the
NFL. You will be surprised at who upgraded their teams.
Q: If I come out in I form big and the defense comes out in
quarters will I finally be able to pound the rock like I should
be able too?
Big B: Yes you can. The MLB gets in sometimes, but you can
control your own blocking now. So you can fix the problems now.
Run the ball and if you see someone get through, grab your guys
and plug that hole. Please everyone who doesn't lab the run, get
ready to spend some serious time in practice mode. Many people
will be here to beat our forums up for some good run defense. If
you lived just by the run commit feature, you are pretty much
done this year. Practice!
To view more of the Q&A, be sure to visit the VG Sports forums at
http://www.maddentips.com/forums
Friday, August 04, 2006
ESPN TEAMS UP WITH EA SPORTS TO OFFER AN INSIDE LOOK AT MADDEN NFL 07
I'll be tuning in tonight. Gotta catch the 11:00 show. Let me know what you thing about it.
PAY-PER-VIEW EVENT AVAILABLE ON TV AND ONLINE
Beginning August 4 at 8 p.m. ET., ESPN and ESPN.com will offer an exclusive pay-per-view event with Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) - Inside Madden NFL 07 - produced by ESPN Original Entertainment (EOE) and available to gamers through affiliates on television and also online.
In this special, available 18 days before the release of Madden NFL 07 from EA SPORTS(tm) on August 22, fans will get an early look inside one of this year's most anticipated video game releases. EA game designers and some of the best Madden players will lead gamers on a guided tour through new changes and advances in all aspects of the game. Included in the special are the exclusive release of player ratings and tips from top Madden gamers and behind-the-scenes details about the making of the next generation of Madden NFL games.
Intended to give the hardcore gamer and fan a leg up on playing the latest version in the popular Madden game series, ESPN and EA SPORTS invited some of the best gamers in the business to EA Sports Tiburon studios in Orlando. Before arriving, the five gamers were given a chance to try the new game and see a number of new features. Once at the EA studios, the players were given the opportunity to interview game producers, engineers, and further test and evaluate the latest edition of the game for the cameras.
The gamers that took part in the program are:
- Dwayne "D-Train Harrison" - winner of the 2002 Madden Challenge
- Jarvis Thomas - winner of the 2005 Madden Challenge
- Justin Chow - Washington DC regional winner of the 2005 Madden Challenge
- Will Kinsler - co-owner of MaddenNation.com, and writer for gaming strategy guides and EA Sports
- Rod "Reality" Winn - a former competitor on ESPN's Madden Nation
Throughout the 60-minute special, the gamers discuss how the new game features will impact their own play and provide insight into techniques and strategies that help make them among the best in the world.
Inside Madden NFL 07 also includes interviews with top athletes regarding their experience with the latest version of the game. Atlanta Falcons' Warrick Dunn, Tennessee Titans great Eddie George, Minnesota Vikings guard Steve Hutchinson, and St. Louis Rams running back Marshall Faulk were each given the opportunity to take an advance look at their OWN player ratings while cameras captured their feedback.
Fans can purchase Inside Madden NFL 07 for $19.95 at www.espn.com (search Madden), or by contacting their pay-per-view provider. For re-airs throughout the month of August, check www.espntv.com listings or contact your pay-per-view provider.
Leading up to the pay-per-view special on August 4, ESPN Classic will air episodes of EOE's Madden Nation from 2 - 6 p.m. ET as part of Generation Y Week on ESPN Classic.
PAY-PER-VIEW EVENT AVAILABLE ON TV AND ONLINE
Beginning August 4 at 8 p.m. ET., ESPN and ESPN.com will offer an exclusive pay-per-view event with Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) - Inside Madden NFL 07 - produced by ESPN Original Entertainment (EOE) and available to gamers through affiliates on television and also online.
In this special, available 18 days before the release of Madden NFL 07 from EA SPORTS(tm) on August 22, fans will get an early look inside one of this year's most anticipated video game releases. EA game designers and some of the best Madden players will lead gamers on a guided tour through new changes and advances in all aspects of the game. Included in the special are the exclusive release of player ratings and tips from top Madden gamers and behind-the-scenes details about the making of the next generation of Madden NFL games.
Intended to give the hardcore gamer and fan a leg up on playing the latest version in the popular Madden game series, ESPN and EA SPORTS invited some of the best gamers in the business to EA Sports Tiburon studios in Orlando. Before arriving, the five gamers were given a chance to try the new game and see a number of new features. Once at the EA studios, the players were given the opportunity to interview game producers, engineers, and further test and evaluate the latest edition of the game for the cameras.
The gamers that took part in the program are:
- Dwayne "D-Train Harrison" - winner of the 2002 Madden Challenge
- Jarvis Thomas - winner of the 2005 Madden Challenge
- Justin Chow - Washington DC regional winner of the 2005 Madden Challenge
- Will Kinsler - co-owner of MaddenNation.com, and writer for gaming strategy guides and EA Sports
- Rod "Reality" Winn - a former competitor on ESPN's Madden Nation
Throughout the 60-minute special, the gamers discuss how the new game features will impact their own play and provide insight into techniques and strategies that help make them among the best in the world.
Inside Madden NFL 07 also includes interviews with top athletes regarding their experience with the latest version of the game. Atlanta Falcons' Warrick Dunn, Tennessee Titans great Eddie George, Minnesota Vikings guard Steve Hutchinson, and St. Louis Rams running back Marshall Faulk were each given the opportunity to take an advance look at their OWN player ratings while cameras captured their feedback.
Fans can purchase Inside Madden NFL 07 for $19.95 at www.espn.com (search Madden), or by contacting their pay-per-view provider. For re-airs throughout the month of August, check www.espntv.com listings or contact your pay-per-view provider.
Leading up to the pay-per-view special on August 4, ESPN Classic will air episodes of EOE's Madden Nation from 2 - 6 p.m. ET as part of Generation Y Week on ESPN Classic.
Thursday, August 03, 2006
Virtual Playbook for Madden 07
We've posted a ton of information up about the Virtual Playbook for Madden 07. Get the inside scoop on what is inside the guide as well as view video feedback from some of the leaders in the Madden Community.
This year's guide is packed with content guaranteed to make you a better Madden baller!
Go check it out at http://www.maddentips.com
Xbox.com visits EA Sports Community Day
Major Nelson of Xbox.com came out to pay a visit to the Community at the EA Sports Madden Community Day. Check out this video for a behind the scenes peek at what the guys and myself got to experience.
Keep your eyes peeled as well for a couple of cameos with VG Sports own Philly Ron Jackson.
Click here for the video
Keep your eyes peeled as well for a couple of cameos with VG Sports own Philly Ron Jackson.
Click here for the video
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