Use the following trick to always get the ball start a game. On any play, if your opponent has the ball press Start and go to "Options". Choose "Crib Cheats" and turn on the "Always Fumble On A Tackle" (if purchased) and turn off penalties.
When you and your opponent select your plays, go behind the QB, If you touch anyone, you will be flagged. When you tackle him and there is a fumble, recover the ball. When you have to select a play, press Start, go to "Options", select "Crib Cheats" and disable the "Always Fumble" cheat. When you begin the play, your opponent will not tackle you and cause a fumble. Repeat this as desired.