----------------------------------
_______    _    ______  ______
(_______)  | |  (_____ \|  ___ \
_____      \ \  _____) ) |   | |
|  ___)      \ \|  ____/| |   | |
| |_____ _____) ) |     | |   | |
|_______|______/|_|     |_|   |_|
888b      88 88888888888 88            ___    __  __   ______
8888b     88 88          88          /'___`\ /\ \/\ \ /\  ___\
88 `8b    88 88          88         /\_\ /\ \\ \ \/'/'\ \ \__/
88  `8b   88 88aaaaa     88         \/_/// /__\ \ ,  <  \ \___``\
88   `8b  88 88"""""     88            // /_\ \\ \ \\`\ \/\ \L\ \
88    `8b 88 88          88           /\______/ \ \_\ \_\\ \____/
88     `8888 88          88           \/_____/   \/_/\/_/ \/___/
88      `888 88          88888888888
FAQ/Strategy Guide
> >==================
For Microsoft X-BOX
Version 1.0
By Chris Zawada
User: antseezee
E-mail: antseezee@epix.net
Created: 07/27/04
Last Update: 07/29/04
Copyright 2004 Chris Zawada
----------------------------------
Author's Note
----------------------------
As the years have gone by, the sports genre has only seen higher and higher
expectations breached. Developers have been coming out with new ways of
enhancing their sports game beyond believability. In many cases, they're going
above and beyond the line of duty. ESPN NFL 2K5 is the third game of the NFL
series to hit the next generation consoles, and boy, has it exploded with a
bang. By sporting off a new $20 price tag (which is much more affordable than
a $50 one), and sporting off a unique presentation feature, players are tossed
into the NFL like no game before. You'll see weekly recaps, be challenged by
celebrities, manage your own franchise, and even compete via online access
against other players. With the value meal price tag, and the main competitor
of the Madden series, ESPN video games have entered the next generation in
style. This guide will provide you with team overviews, strategies for
enhancing your own abilities, franchise management tips, and information about
the basics.
Contributing/Feedback
----------------------------
If you have any contributions, feedback, or strategies you'd like to have
added to the guide, contact me via e-mail or on GameFAQs. I'll be more than
content to add your segment of information, and will also provide credit. If
you have any questions you'd like added to the Common Questions section, ask.
I simply don't have the time to sit around thinking of questions. Provide me
with what you want to know!
Updates
----------------------------
=07/29/04= v1.0
Finished the FAQ. It's 100% complete, although I'm willing to add any routines
or questions people have. This guide was done in a breeze mainly because I'm
looking to take a writing vacation. Regardless, enjoy the guide.
=07/27/04= v1.0
Started the FAQ. I'm fairly new to the NFL series of games (although I've
played NFL 2K3 before). Expecting to get a first version up within 5 days.
============================
-    Table of Contents     -
============================
1) Introduction
2) Game Basics
> Controls
3) Teams
> Description of each
4) Game Modes
> Description of each
5) Franchise Details
> Walkthrough
> Player Ratings
6) Strategies
> Offense
> Defense
> ESPN 25th Anniversary Scenarios
7) Codes
8) Common Questions
9) Copyright/Distribution/Reproduction Guidelines
10) Proper Credits
----------------------------------
============================
- 1) Introduction          -
============================
The ESPN NFL series is relatively new, although it does have a hidden past.
Originally created back during the Sega Dreamcast era, it has gone through a
turbulent journey. With Sega's downfall near the beginning of the Gamecube's
opening, and constant revamps due to various budgets, Sega has still managed
to turn this key football game into a rabid competitor. ESPN NFL 2K5 is the
latest addition from the series, sporting off various features, and an
exclusive ESPN license. To start off, ESPN is designed for realistic stat
play. Players will compete in 11 on 11 football action to see who is the best,
using a variety of strategic plays, and top-notch players. You can manage your
own franchise, decide upon player contracts, and even test out some unique
gameplay modes. Ever wanted to play like it is inside a football player's
helmet? BAM! You can. Ever wanted to see realistic play movement without
having to worry about quirky AI? BAM! You can. This is why some players prefer
ESPN over Madden, or vice versa.
However, ESPN has a few minute differences that does set it apart from the
long-time Madden franchise. For starters, the game is strictly designed for
the Microsoft X-BOX system. The PS2ers are receiving a ported version of an
exclusive football game. This means graphics are top-notch, featuring
excellent descriptive player models, realistic uniforms, and sharper textures.
This game really does exploit the system's strengths. Secondly, you have an
authentic ESPN license which furthermore adds depth to the presentation. You
truly feel like you're watching Sportscenter after seeing highlights from
games, Plays of the Week, and recaps of every game in the league. Not only is
this a game, but it feels like a true spectator sport. ESPN also has online
competitive Xbox live play, featuring unique leagues that allow several
players to compete on a regular basis. There are also a few new features this
year, and plenty of depth to keep you entertained for the entire football
season, and even the 2005 off-season. This is the game to get if you're an
avid football fan, and are interested in only paying $20 brand spanking new.
Here's a brief excerpt of the game's storyline (credit to Sega):
It's the season of the fan. The year of people coming together to celebrate
sport. And uniting everyone is ESPN NFL 2K5, a coupling of the most responsive
and intense gameplay around and the richest multi-player gaming experience
possible. Everyone is getting in on the action with the help of our innovative
V.I.P. system - allowing you to play your friends and top players as if they
were sitting right next to you! So dust off those extra controllers, grab some
chairs, and get your game on!
{+} ESPN PRESENTATION - Chris Berman and new sideline reporter Suzy Kolber
headline an updated ESPN presentation complete with
an expanded halftime & post-game show, Player of the
Game award, SkyCam, and pass/run analysis.
{+} V.I.P. SYSTEM - After your game, save your friends' profiles to compete
when they're not available! Learn their tendencies, moves,
& logic for more heated battles or play against the
profile of coaches around the league to better your
skills.
{+} ESPN 25th ANNIVERSARY MODE - Play those classic NFL situations over the
past 25 years including "The Immaculate
Reception," "The Catch," and more. Here is
your chance to rewrite history!
{+} ALWAYS ONLINE - Real-time stats, buddy lists, and friend connection
updates all add to our seamless online play for the
ultimate community experience.
{+} MAXIMUM TACKLE - Experience control like never before as you decide
whether to go for the basic wrap-up tackle or the big
hit. Ball carriers have the ability to break out of
tackles for extra yardage.
{+} THE CRIB - Featuring a roster of music from JBoogie, RJD2, People Under
the Stairs, and others. New point system allows you to
increase your crib points with every game you play. Use your
points to deck out your crib, buy music, play mini-games, etc.
Increase your points by answering the crib phone to compete
against Steve-O, Carmen Electra, Jamie Kennedy, Funk Master
Flex, and other celebrities!
{+} INNOVATIVE FRANCHISE PLAY - The all-new Weekly Prep allows you to manage
preparation of your team, including workout
schedules, film breakdown, and more as well
as watch and react to simulated games. Also
new is Sportscenter with Chris Berman
anchoring and Mel Kiper and Trey Wingo
bringing you the latest happenings around the
league.
{+} BREAKTHROUGH MOVES - Dazzling animations such as back of the end zone
catches, quarterback evasions, all-new runs, and
slips, falls, and trips due to real weather changes.
{+} THE EMOTION OF THE NFL - Frantic turnover reactions, intense first down
signals, quick timeout calls on the ground, and
the ability to manage your own outrageous
touchdown celebrations!
{+} UPDATED FIRST PERSON FOOTBALL - Our exclusive First Person mode steps it
up with new camera switching, improved
audio, passing control options, and more!
{+} YOUR GAME, YOUR MUSIC - Customize the sounds of the game by using your own
ripped music to add some true stadium atmosphere.
----------------------------
_____________________
##### GAME INFO #####
//////////|\\\\\\\\\\
Players: 1-4 (more with online options)
Developer: Visual Concepts
Released: 2004
Rarity: Common
Special Features: $20 price tag, online play, custom music, content downloads
Cover Art on case:
- Shows Terrell Owens reaching out with one hand for a pass
----------------------------------
============================
- 2) Game Basics           -
============================
Thankfully, the Xbox controller is a well-fit mix for football games nowadays.
With its handy sensitive trigger buttons, along with dual joysticks, and four
accessible buttons, just about any player can get use to the setup in no time.
ESPN makes plenty of use with the entire controller, so it's essential that
you understand each function, and when the controls actually affect the
gameplay.
KEY representation for each button:
Y = Y button (yellow)
X = X button (blue)
B = B button (red)
A = A button (green)
BLACK = Black button
WHITE = White button
R = R trigger
L = L trigger
Joysticks = L/R joysticks
Control Pad = 4-way control pad
START = start button
BACK = back button
______________
/Menu Controls/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - highlight an option, increase/decrease options
A - advance, decrease selected option
B - go back
Y - increase selected option
START - advance
BACK - return to previous screen
BLACK - cycle forward
WHITE - cycle backward
R - cycle forward
L - cycle backward
Right Thumbstick - change VIP name
Left Thumbstick - click for maximum passing/player card
- Menu navigation is a simple process. However, if you want to view background
information on a specific player, tap either of the thumbstick buttons to get
their background info.
_________________
/Formation Select/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - up/down scrolls formation by backfield, left/right changes
receiver alignment
A - select formation
B - sub receivers (offense), swap D line (defense), select
screens (offense)
X - sub running backs (offense), swap DB's (defense)
Y - choose package screen (offense)
BACK - call timeout
BLACK - flips the play
WHITE - brings up help menu
L - coach's pick for play
- Based on your depth chart, you can sub in special players at key positions
by using the corresponding key on the controller. This is perfect if you want
to bring a fast RB in on a 3rd down, or simply want to relieve a fatigued
player. Formations have different receiver alignments. For example, an I
formation can be altered so that both WRs are on the same side of the field,
or an extra TE is substituted in.
__________
/Play Call/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - scroll plays or packages
A,B,X - select play marked by each button
Y - switch to formation screen
BACK - call timeout
WHITE - bring up help menu
R - on-the-fly audible
L - coach's pick for play
_________________
/Pre-Play Offense/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - up/down selects a player, left/right puts in
motion
A - hurry to the line of scrimmage, snap the
football
B - fake hike, false count
Y - bring up/send down audible menu
BACK - call timeout
BLACK - hold down to view players' fatigue levels
WHITE - hold down to view players' routes
R - view players' fatigue levels
L - view players' routes
Right Thumbstick + A,B,X,Y,L - call hot route on receiver
- Sending a player in motion means the receiver will move from his current
position to a spot horizontal from where he was. This is often used in the NFL
to confuse the defense, or exploit a mismatch. Hurrying is used when time is
low and you want to get a play off before time runs out. Players will get
fatigued the longer they are in. Substitutions are automatic, however,
sometimes it helps to make a manual shift. Hot routing receivers is fairly
easy once you get use to it. Hold down the right thumbstick in a direction of
where you want their route to go, along with holding down their receiver
button. Let's say you wanted the "B" receiver to go on a deep post. Well,
press the right thumbstick up and press B at the same time. Here's what each
of the directions on the thumbstick stand for:
Up = Go          Up/Right = Quick Corner
Down = Stop      Up/Left = Slant
Right = Out      Down/Right = Speed Out
Left = In        Down/Left = Speed Under
- Pressing the right thumbstick button, and the receiver's button will have
that receiver pass block. This is useful if you know a blitz is coming, and
you want a tight end to protect you, rather than leave you out to dry.
_______________________
/Offensive Audible Menu/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - cycle selected audibles
A,B,X - select marked audible
Y - call/dismiss menu
BACK - call timeout
BLACK - flips play
Right Thumbstick - click to flip routes
________
/Passing/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - moves QB
A,B,X,Y,L - throw to marked receiver
BLACK - throw ball away
WHITE - pump fake
R - pull and hold to scramble with QB, can perform any special
rushing moves as scrambling QB when holding it down
Right Thumbstick - (behind line of scrimmage) QB evade
- Passing in NFL 2K5 is fairly simple. To pass to a receiver, simply press the
button designated to that receiver. Holding the button down sends out a bullet
pass, while tapping it once and briefly will lob a pass over coverage. The
slower the pass, the easier it is to intercept. You can also do a quick double
tap to send a fake pump to that receiver. If you want to scramble, hold down R
to remove the passing icons to do so. This is easier as it allows you to hold
down R and perform any moves a normal rusher can do. Be weary of your QB's
rushing speed, and Carrying ability as well.
________
/Rushing/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - moves the runner
A - speed burst, hold to charge up power for a move
B - spin move
X - dive, QB slide
Y - shoulder charge
BLACK - stiff arm right
WHITE - stiff arm left
R - juke right, pitch the ball on option plays only
L - juke left
R + L - lateral
Right Thumbstick - press up to stutter-step, down to stop short, left to juke
left, and right to juke right, click to hurdle
- Speed bursts give your rusher a boost of speed, and it must be tapped for a
lightning boost of speed. The shoulder charge is sort of like a power runner's
move, where he puts his head down and charges ahead. Diving is good for
gaining a few extra yardage when you're about to go down. The spin move is
great for shifting directions, especially in one-on-one situations. The same
can be said about the juke. Lateraling will pitch the ball back to the nearest
teammate, and should only be used in extreme situations. Stutter-stepping is
the same as a fake juke. It's a stationary fake-out meant to put defenders off-
guard. Stopping short is similar to a back juke, as the rusher jitters back a
bit. Hurdling is great for launching yourself over downed players.
_________________________________
/Offensive Control (without ball)/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - moves player
A - speed burst, hold for power charge
B - switch player
X - dive/chop block
Y - wave for the pass
BLACK or R - juke right
WHITE or L - juke left
After the play ends...press B for a hurry up offense
...press X for a hurry spike
- The hurry up offense always uses the last default play selected, but you can
use the audible menu to quickly change the play selected. Spiking the ball
will cost one down, but stops the clock.
_________________
/Pre-Play Defense/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - moves player
A - switch player
B - switch back a player
X - blitz selected player
Y - call/dismiss audible menu
BACK - call timeout
BLACK - hold to view players' fatigue levels
WHITE - view defensive assignments
R + Right Thumbstick - hold right to assign DB's outside coverage, left to
assign DB's inside coverage, up to assign DB's
off coverage, and down to assign DB's tight coverage
L + Right Thumbstick - hold right to shift LB's right, left to shift LB's left,
up to spread LB's outside, and down to bring LB's inside
L - pull and hold to open LB adjustment
R - pull and hold to open DB adjustment
Right Thumbstick - push right to shift DL right, left to shift DL left, up
to spread DL outward, and down to bring DL inward
You can also do individual assignments on players by holding down either
the L trigger or R trigger, and then pressing the following buttons:
R + X,Y,B,A,L - double teams individual receiver
R + WHITE - blitzes
R + BLACK - delay blitzes
R + right thumbstick click - resets assignments
_______________________
/Defensive Audible Menu/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - cycles available audibles in menu
A,B,X - selects assigned audible
Y - calls, dismisses menu
BLACK - flips defensive assignments
WHITE - returns to original play
R,L - selects assigned audible
BACK - calls timeout
_______________
/After the Snap/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - move player
A - tap for speed burst, hold for power charge
B - switch player
X - diving tackle
Y - intercept or block the pass
R - intercept the pass or swim move (for DL)
L - block pass or club move (DL)
BLACK - LB strafe or spin off of blocker (DL)
- A diving tackle is weaker than a default one. Sometimes players can break
free from a diving tackle due to the Maximum Tackling system. The swim move is
sort of like the defensive lineman's version of a juke move. The club move
will try to use strength to wrestle off the blocker's grapple. The LB strafe
is similar to the juke of a RB, and the spin off for DL is designed to get
around pesky large guards.
________
/Kicking/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Pad/Joysticks - aims kicking arrow
A - press to activate kick meter, hit second time to set power,
and kick ball
Y - bring up audible menu, dismiss
_______________
/Kick Returning/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Right Thumbstick Click - downs the ball in the endzone (press after catch)
Y - call fair catch (before receiving it)
______________________
/First Person Football/
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=
Almost all of the controls are the same, except for the following:
Right Thumbstick - press left to look left, right to look right
R/L - hold to perform hot routes or defensive line shifts
WHITE - on defense it locates the man you are assigned to cover
Before the Snap:
Left Thumbstick - click to swap between 1st and 3rd person view
After the Snap:
Right Thumbstick - click to intitiate temporary "slowdown" mode
After the Tackle:
Right Thumbstick - click to view an action replay of the last play
----------------------------------
============================
- 3) Teams                 -
============================
As most of us football fans know, the team is the pride and joy of every fan
out there. You either root for the underdog, the cursed franchise, or have
your own favorite team etched on the outer layer of your heart. Simply put,
teams in the NFL are the single reason fans buy posters, cards, and jerseys.
Numerous franchises have managed to establish a presence in the league that is
unrivaled by other sports. This section will go over each of the teams in ESPN
NFL 2K5, providing an outlook on their abilities, and overall ratings.
>> Teams will be sorted by their handle, not the actual city name coming first.
>> Please note that these are based off of the default rosters that came with
the game. While Ricky Williams did retire, and Visual Concepts is going to
release updated rosters, I'm basing my findings off of these. You can alter
your own rosters under the Features section.
>> The life expectancy rating is about how many years the "core" of the team
can stay together before major changes. The experience is the amount of age
compared to other players on the team. There are young, veteran, and elder
teams.
~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~
|==|+| SAN FRANCISCO 49ERs |+|==| OVERALL: 84                             |
~===============================~=========================================~
| Top Players:                  | The 49ers are one of the offensively    |
| Fred Beasley =FB= (93)        | flawed teams in the game with the loss  |
| Julian Peterson =OLB= (91)    | of Owens, and Garcia. However, they     |
| Tony Parrish =SS= (90)        | still have some gas left in the tank.   |
~===============================~=========================================~
/ Their entire offense has taken a beating with the loss of Jeff Garcia,
/ Owens, and the elder age of Garrison Hearst. Your best bet is to play a
/ rushing offense thanks to Barlow, a high pressure defense, and try to force
|turnovers during the course of the game.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 3 years  EXPERIENCE: Young
~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~
|==|+| CHICAGO BEARS |+|==| OVERALL: 85                                   |
~===============================~=========================================~
| Top Players:                  | The Bears have struggled offensively in |
| Brian Urlacher =ILB= (96)     | the past years, but still possess a     |
| Mike Brown =FS= (94)          | playoff-caliber defense worth looking   |
| Olin Kreutz =C= (91)          | after.                                  |
~===============================~=========================================~
/ The defense has a solid secondary, along with some pressure up front along
/ the line. The offense is very youthful, with an unstable HB spot, but plenty
/ of faith in Rex Grossman. You may have some quirks with the offense, but try
| playing 50/50 with the playbook.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 4 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~
|==|+| CINCINNATI BENGALS |+|==| OVERALL: 84                              |
~===============================~=========================================~
| Top Players:                  | The Bengals have shown they're no longer|
| Willie Anderson =T= (93)      | the bottomwashers of the league. Their  |
| Chad Johnson =WR= (93)        | offense is headed by a nice young core, |
| Peter Warrick =WR= (86)       | with a streaky defense.                 |
~===============================~=========================================~
/ A very youthful team with one of the best rising offenses, an effective
/ defense at times, plus exceptional rookies. This team is great to progress
/ as a franchise, and will eventually become a powerhouse. Try a 60/40 pass/run
| offense, putting most of the pressure on the variety of wide receivers.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 3 years  EXPERIENCE: Young
~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~
|==|+| BUFFALO BILLS |+|==| OVERALL: 87                                   |
~===============================~=========================================~
| Top Players:                  | The Bills are a very talented team that |
| Lawyer Milloy =SS= (96)       | just tends to suffer from cursed plays  |
| Eric Moulds =WR= (93)         | on the field. A good leader could place |
| Takeo Spikes =OLB= (90)       | them in the right direction.            |
~===============================~=========================================~
/ This team is full of stars at each position, however, their play feels more
/ isolated, rather than working as a team. Superb defense that is nearly
/ unstoppable on the field. Bledsoe is getting old, so try a 60/40 run/pass
| offense. Make use of McGahee and Henry.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 2 years  EXPERIENCE: Elder
~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~
|==|+| DENVER BRONCOS |+|==| OVERALL: 85                                  |
~===============================~=========================================~
| Top Players:                  | The Broncos have always been a top-notch|
| Champ Bailey =CB= (93)        | team year in and year out. Despite a few|
| Tom Nalen =C= (92)            | retirements here and there, they still  |
| Jason Elam =K= (91)           | have the abilities of reaching the SB.  |
~===============================~=========================================~
/ While they traded away Portis, you've still got a new addition in Bailey,
/ Lynch, and some youth to fill in at the offense. You may have some troubles
/ with turnovers early on, but a 50/50 pass/run offense will do just fine. Make
| use of your veteran experience, and play more man-to-man coverage.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 3 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~
|==|+| CLEVELAND BROWNS |+|==| OVERALL: 81                                |
~===============================~=========================================~
| Top Players:                  | The Browns have been another team often |
| Kenard Lang =DE= (85)         | disgraced in Ohio. With numerous free   |
| Courtney Brown =DE= (84)      | agency losses last year, and a lacking  |
| Gerard Warren =DT= (83)       | team, only fate holds onto their future.|
~===============================~=========================================~
/ Surprisingly, the key to this team is their defense. Your front 4 is
/ amazing and will bring a ton of pressure on the QB. Your offense is improved
/ thanks to Garcia, but not worthy when it comes to the receiving core. Try a
| bend but don't break defense at first, at minimize your losses.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 4 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~
|==|+| TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS |+|==| OVERALL: 90                            |
~===============================~=========================================~
| Top Players:                  | The former superbowl champs have taken  |
| Derrick Brooks =OLB= (96)     | several free agency losses, critically  |
| Simeon Rice =DE= (95)         | affecting their defense. With a boost of|
| Anthony McFarland =DT= (91)   | confidence, they can still prove worthy.|
~===============================~=========================================~
/ The Bucs have lost a lot without Sapp or Lynch on the defense. Some of your
/ key players are getting old. Still, you've got some reliable rookies at
/ backup spots. A 60/40 run/pass offense shouldn't deal too much damage, but it
| will minimize risky interceptions.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 2 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~
|==|+| ARIZONA CARDINALS |+|==| OVERALL: 79                               |
~===============================~=========================================~
| Top Players:                  | Despite their horrid failures in the    |
| Leonard Davis =G= (93)        | league, the Cardinals are rising with an|
| Dexter Jackson =FS= (87)      | upper hand thanks to some vigorous      |
| Anquan Boldin =WR= (87)       | rookies and excellent coaching.         |
~===============================~=========================================~
/ Dennis Green will make sure to put your team on the rise. Your offense
/ will need to make use of short passes, and long boostful runs. Try your best
/ to burn time, and rely on a streaky defense in the secondary. Aside from
| that, a 70/30 pass/run offense would fit the scheme nicely.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 5 years  EXPERIENCE: Young
~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~'~
|==|+| SAN DIEGO CHARGERS |+|==| OVERALL: 76                              |
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| Top Players:                  | The worst team in the NFL is attempting |
| Ladainian Tomlinson =HB= (97) | to make a comeback with insightful      |
| Lorenzo Neal =FB= (89)        | rookies and playmakers at key positions.|
| Donnie Edwards =ILB= (87)     | Let's hope for the best on this one.    |
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/ LT will lead your team for quite some time, along with the addition of
/ Rivers, and a young offensive line. Unfortunately, your defense is ailing
/ without any veterans, and you'll find out soon as it takes time to build up.
| Use a 60/40 run/pass offense.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 5 years  EXPERIENCE: Young
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|==|+| KANSAS CITY CHIEFS |+|==| OVERALL: 89                              |
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| Top Players:                  | Still one of the offensive powerhouses  |
| Will Shields =G= (98)         | in the NFL, the Chiefs excite fans day  |
| Tony Gonzalez =TE= (98)       | and day out. If only their defense could|
| Priest Holmes =HB= (95)       | get on the same page...                 |
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/ This team is designed to win a superbowl soon, before everything falls
/ apart. Your offense is superb at all 3 spots (WR, HB, QB), but the defense
/ only has a few key players. Try a bend don't break philosophy, and make use
| of a 50/50 pass/run offense.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 2 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
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|==|+| INDIANAPOLIS COLTS |+|==| OVERALL: 87                              |
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| Top Players:                  | The oh-so-close team in the NFL has one |
| Marvin Harrison =WR= (100)    | of the best offensive trios in the      |
| Peyton Manning =QB= (98)      | league. However, their failing gripes in|
| Mike Vanderjagt =K= (94)      | the playoffs have harbored a curse.     |
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/ Another team which is on the verge of falling apart after a few years. Try
/ to make use of your trio on offense, employing a 60/40 pass/run plan. The
/ defense is very young, so try blitzing, and playing lots of zone. Catch the
| opponent off guard with some outside calls.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 3 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
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|==|+| DALLAS COWBOYS |+|==| OVERALL: 85                                  |
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| Top Players:                  | The Cowboys are starting to make a big  |
| Roy Williams =FS= (96)        | influence thanks to Parcells, but their |
| La'Roi Glover =DT= (92)       | lack of an offense is proving to be a   |
| Flozell Adams =T= (89)        | real stifle.                            |
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/ The Cowboys have plenty of youth at QB, HB, and WR. Plan accordingly with
/ the addition of Keyshawn. Parcells loves a solid running game, so try a
/ 60/40 run/pass offense. Make use of Julius Jones, and employ your superior
| defense down the throats of opponents.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 5 years  EXPERIENCE: Young
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|==|+| MIAMI DOLPHINS |+|==| OVERALL: 85                                  |
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| Top Players:                  | While Williams may have retired, Miami  |
| Patrick Surtain =CB= (93)     | still has an overpowering defense       |
| Jason Taylor =DE= (92)        | capable of cutting the slack. If only   |
| Zach Thomas =ILB= (91)        | something could inspire consistency...  |
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/ Another team designed to win right away. Make use of Feeley at QB if
/ necessary, and make Ricky your primary threat (unless you have downloaded
/ rosters). The defense is superb, play lots of man-to-man. Employ a 60/40
| run/pass offense to make up for the lack of an air ball.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 2 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
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|==|+| PHILADELPHIA EAGLES |+|==| OVERALL: 92                             |
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| Top Players:                  | When you've got the cover boy on your   |
| Terrell Owens =WR= (100)      | team, everything is bound to be right.  |
| Brian Dawkins =FS= (99)       | The Eagles have a superious team, but   |
| Donovan McNabb =QB= (92)      | actually have a problematic curse.      |
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/ The Eagles are destined to win a Superbowl one of these years. Make use of
/ Donovan's scrambling abilities, the addition of Owens, and your strong
/ defense. Use a 50/50 run/pass offense, but you have to LEARN how to scramble
| with McNabb to have an effective offense.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 3 years  EXPERIENCE: Elder
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|==|+| ATLANTA FALCONS |+|==| OVERALL: 85                                 |
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| Top Players:                  | With Vick and nice rounded defense,     |
| Keith Brooking =ILB= (93)     | Atlanta comes in as a playoff favorite. |
| Cory Hall =FS= (91)           | The only question is whether or not Mora|
| Peerless Price =WR= (91)      | Jr. can keep the flow going.            |
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/ The Falcons have a bright future up ahead thanks to Vick's blazing speed,
/ and bewildering arm. You also have a one-two punch with Dunn and Duckett, so
/ make exclusive use of this pounding offense. A 55/45 run/pass offense would
| do nicely. The defense should mix around with a few more 3-4 blitzes.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 4 years  EXPERIENCE: Young
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|==|+| NEW YORK GIANTS |+|==| OVERALL: 76                                 |
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| Top Players:                  | With a nice powerful defense, and some  |
| Michael Strahan =DE= (96)     | new threats on the offense, the Giants  |
| Jeremy Shockey =TE= (91)      | are shaping up to be a nice hometown    |
| Amani Toomer =WR= (91)        | favorite. Just give them a thumbs up.   |
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/ The Giants have taken booming losses and are in a rebuilding state. Try to
/ get Eli Manning into tip top shape, and make use of the powerful passing
/ game. Your running game is getting old as time moves on, and the defense
| only has a few playmakers yet. Stick with a bend don't break philosophy.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 3 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
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|==|+| JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS |+|==| OVERALL: 86                            |
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| Top Players:                  | Jacksonville has a rising star in Byron,|
| Marcus Stroud =DT= (95)       | but just has some ailments to cure on   |
| Chris Hanson =P= (91)         | the defense. After that, they're looking|
| Jimmy Smith =WR= (91)         | to pounce on some easy prey.            |
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/ The Jaguars are just about in shape to make the playoffs. Most of their
/ rookies are developed enough to be used efficiently. Do a 60/40 pass/run
/ approach, and play man-to-man, seeing that your defensive line can do some
| damage.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 3 years  EXPERIENCE: Young
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|==|+| NEW YORK JETS |+|==| OVERALL: 81                                   |
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| Top Players:                  | Still with a powerful defensive core,   |
| Kevin Mawae =C= (95)          | and a reliable QB in Pennington, expect |
| Santana Moss =WR= (91)        | the Jets to be a true underdog when it  |
| Sam Cowart =ILB= (89)         | comes to the playoffs.                  |
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/ The Jets are just about to be broken up soon. Your running game is going
/ to have problems, so stick with a large passing attack. Mix up the defensive
/ calls with some 3-4 blitzes, and 4-3 zones. You have speed in the receiving
| core, so use it a lot.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 2 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
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|==|+| DETROIT LIONS |+|==| OVERALL: 81                                   |
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| Top Players:                  | The Lions are starting to make a slow   |
| Cory Schlesinger =FB= (91)    | comeback thanks to Mariucci, but it may |
| Damien Woody =G= (89)         | not be enough to handle the challenge   |
| Jason Hanson =K= (88)         | coming up this year.                    |
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/ The rookies are starting to develop into stars, however, your defense
/ still has no pressure up front. Try to make something happen with a 50/50
/ West Coast offense. The defense has speed, but no real strength up front, so
| try some man-to-man hoping for the best.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 5 years  EXPERIENCE: Young
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|==|+| GREEN BAY PACKERS |+|==| OVERALL: 84                               |
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| Top Players:                  | The Packers are some crazy cheese-heads.|
| Darren Sharper =SS= (96)      | Their prevailing offense, yet wailing   |
| Brett Favre =QB= (94)         | defense gives them trouble at key       |
| Ahman Green =HB= (92)         | moments. Let's hope they improve.       |
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/ The Packers still have a capable passing attack with Farve, and a running
/ game with Green. You'll have to focus on getting a key receiver, along with
/ some players on the defensive side of the ball. Maybe a 60/40 run/pass
| offense will prevent key turnovers.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 2 years  EXPERIENCE: Elder
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|==|+| CAROLINA PANTHERS |+|==| OVERALL: 92                               |
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| Top Players:                  | The Panthers are the true team that came|
| Kris Jenkins =DT= (97)        | out of the blue, and nearly spanked a   |
| Todd Sauerbrun =P= (93)       | SB-caliber team. This year they're still|
| Julius Peppers =DE= (92)      | highly favored to roar extremely loud.  |
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/ Now that the superbowl contenders are back to the drawing board, look at
/ some key aspects missing from last year. Make use of a speedy receiving
/ core, but do a majority of running plays with Davis/Foster. A 60/40 run/pass
| approach is a safe way to the playoffs.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 3 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
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|==|+| NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS |+|==| OVERALL: 93                            |
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| Top Players:                  | With two superbowl victories in 3 years,|
| Adam Vinatieri =K= (98)       | and plenty of pride to show for it, the |
| Rodney Harrison =SS= (97)     | Patriots are the pinnacle of a dynasty. |
| Tom Brady =QB= (93)           | Three times a charm, right?             |
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/ The Patriots are going to get a huge improvement in the running game thanks
/ to Dillon. Brady will toss his air balls as usual to a mediocre receiving
/ core. Look for a 50/50 run/pass approach to keep opponents off guard. Play
| some man-to-man thanks to a decent line up front.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 3 years  EXPERIENCE: Elder
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|==|+| OAKLAND RAIDERS |+|==| OVERALL: 89                                 |
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| Top Players:                  | Despite a slip up last year, the Raiders|
| Warren Sapp =DT= (94)         | look to charge ahead full steam with a  |
| Charles Woodson =CB= (91)     | re-energized lineup. Let's hope the     |
| Rod Woodson =FS= (91)         | pirates can sail the ship this time.    |
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/ Look for a very improved team to turn around from last year. The defense
/ is still superb, so playing man-to-man is no problem. Sapp will only
/ increase the leadership. Fortunately, the offense has plenty of varied
| players to choose from. A 50/50 pass/run gameplan sounds intriguing.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 1 year  EXPERIENCE: Elder
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|==|+| ST. LOUIS RAMS |+|==| OVERALL: 85                                  |
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| Top Players:                  | The Rams still prove to be an assaulting|
| Torry Holt =WR= (100)         | offense when you least expect it. If    |
| Orlando Pace =T= (96)         | only they could continue their winnings |
| Aeneas Williams =FS= (92)     | in the playoffs...                      |
~===============================~=========================================~
/ Charge ahead will a full-blown passing attack, however, try to get Jackson
/ some attempts behind Faulk. He will be the replacement once Faulk throws in
/ the towel. Look at a 70/30 pass/run attack, and make use of safety blitzes
| to throw your opponents in turmoil.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 3 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
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|==|+| BALTIMORE RAVENS |+|==| OVERALL: 89                                |
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| Top Players:                  | The Ravens continue to have one of the  |
| Ray Lewis =ILB= (99)          | most dominant defenses in the league, at|
| Jonathan Ogden =T= (98)       | the sacrifice of a little O here and    |
| Chris McAlister =CB= (96)     | there. Watch them pound opponents.      |
~===============================~=========================================~
/ The defense is your key here, so constantly mix up 3-4 blitzes, zones, and
/ man-to-man. The running game is the only way to score on opponents, so stick
/ with a 70/30 run/pass attack. Picking the right QB is up to you, and make
| sure you keep Heap with developing numbers.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 4 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
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|==|+| WASHINGTON REDSKINS |+|==| OVERALL: 83                             |
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| Top Players:                  | The revamped Skins are looking to really|
| Lavar Arrington =OLB= (94)    | sizzle things up with a new offense, but|
| Laveranues Coles =WR= (94)    | slightly depressed defense. Will the new|
| Clinton Portis =HB= (93)      | formula work, or explode in disgust?    |
~===============================~=========================================~
/ The Redskins will have a blazing offense this year. Do explosive attacks
/ with Brunell, and learn to scramble around a lot with the faulty line. Use
/ Portis for the majority of the attacks because of his uncanny abilities. The
| defense will struggle without a secondary, so try some zone blitzes.
|
# LIFE EXPECTANCY: 2 years  EXPERIENCE: Veteran
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