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[FrenchMovieTheme]

but FMT was adamant about Truelize not using Vick. And considering that our league doesn't have real injuries since there are no leagues in Madden, it's a way to add that depth. Keep the ones that are only out a couple of games and take out the IR players.

didn't i put it to a vote? (not being sarcastic i honestly can't remember)

i don't recall being adamant about it!

http://www.leaguedaddy.com/leagues/polls/?lid=1307&pid=5877

there's the vote buddy!

 

[Shawnwhann]

My thought on the IR players is that they should be out. Ok, so you guys say real life doesn't affect our league, but FMT was adamant about Truelize not using Vick. And considering that our league doesn't have real injuries since there are no leagues in Madden, it's a way to add that depth.

Considering how Vick is the most dynamic player in the game, it would grossly misrepresent the Falcons are they are currently assembled in real life. Vick is a special case scenario where the guy isn't even in the league anymore versus someone just being injured...

Edit-Yes we did vote on Vick being banned, it was a resounding "ban him"

 

[bluemax]

Tiburon has said they are working on online franchises for Madden 09. 'Online franchises' are their words, so they are more than just regular leagues.

I just hope they have a website for their leagues, I'm addicted to leaguedaddy

I waste so much time analyzing my stats. I wish EA hadn't taken out GameCast. I would analyze the hell out of my play calling if I could.

 

[Rorschach]

didn't i put it to a vote? (not being sarcastic i honestly can't remember)

i don't recall being adamant about it!

http://www.leaguedaddy.com/leagues/polls/?lid=1307&pid=5877

there's the vote buddy!

:lol Well, I did say "you guys" and ok, you held a vote where 4 people voted...

I guess you were stern because the vote was had and I mistook it for that. Sorry.


[edit] does anyone still get the EA post game emails? I can't get them to work.

[edit2] I think bluemax should be forced to play his next game from Arizona.

 

[dammitmattt]

Yeah, I think it's a weird issue. I mean I'm not going to freak out over every last lineman out for the season, but if EA insists on taking Vick out of the game because he's now a felon, what's the difference (realism-wise) between that and Deuce who was injured since the start of the season? It's a tricky issue, but I think it only gets complicated when we're talking about impact players.

I took Deuce out as soon as he got injured. Result? 7-1

Truth be told, that was by far the best game I had with him all season. I don't know what your Right Tackle's rating is but that was by far Kearse best game for me. Second, one of Kearse's sacks I was controlling DT Mike Patterson. Third, most of Kearse's came on a designed blitz in which is called a Hog 3 I believe. This blitz is a 4-3 Zone blitz that sends your Strong side LB in to tie up your Right Tackle which lets my DE come off the end free. PLEASE EXAMINE THE PLAY BEFORE COMPLAINING ABOUT CHEAP PLAYS, THERE IS SEVERAL WAYS TO COUNTER THIS PLAY.

It's fine if you beat my tackle using swim moves, which you did several times. But you also ran a loop around my tackle several times, which is questionable territory if you ask me since the offensive line play was so bad in the game. It's really not much different from manually blitzing around the o-line because it has the same result.

However, it's not against the league rules so you were justified in occasionally using that tactic, though like I said in my previous post, it should be up for review (and a vote) at the end of the season.

 

[Ramirez]

I took Deuce out as soon as he got injured. Result? 7-1



It's fine if you beat my tackle using swim moves, which you did several times. But you also ran a loop around my tackle several times, which is questionable territory if you ask me since the offensive line play was so bad in the game. It's really not much different from manually blitzing around the o-line because it has the same result.

However, it's not against the league rules so you were justified in occasionally using that tactic, though like I said in my previous post, it should be up for review (and a vote) at the end of the season.

I've told FMT all season long that you should only be able to control the inside linemen! Even that results in some big bullshit from time to time.

 

[SickBoy]

I agree with Ramirez on both points (only controlling inside linemen and inside line BS.. which I was a beneficiary of in my first game against him)

 

[AZ Greg]

Just checking in. I'm currently in midterm hell. Final one will be Wednesday evening. If any of my remaining opponents want to play Wednesday night let me know. I'll try and contact most of you at that time or early Thursday.

 

[CB3]

I've told FMT all season long that you should only be able to control the inside linemen! Even that results in some big bullshit from time to time.

I like this rule.

+1

 

[Rorschach]

Fuck that, then these people that only run outside with their speedy RBs will be unstoppable. The AI is retarded shit when it comes to that. I only switch to Kelly/Burgess when I'm pretty sure they're running to that side and I never touch the for pass rush, but for fuck's sake. And they're also invaluable for stopping mobile QBs.

[edit] Oh that looping around bullshit should be banned, though...if it's not already...

 

[Wellington]

Okay so there is DE shit and inside line shit?

What the fuck are we allowed to do then?

 

[DCX]

Considering how Vick is the most dynamic player in the game, it would grossly misrepresent the Falcons are they are currently assembled in real life. Vick is a special case scenario where the guy isn't even in the league anymore versus someone just being injured...

Edit-Yes we did vote on Vick being banned, it was a resounding "ban him"

You all fear Vick...he returns Season 2....


DCX

 

[Slo]

It's next to impossible to stop outside running and scrambling QBs without controlling the DEs. If you can't control them anymore, line spread should be allowed again.

 

[sableholic]

I've told FMT all season long that you should only be able to control the inside linemen! Even that results in some big bullshit from time to time.

I like this rule also.

 

[DenogginizerOS]

By Season 3, the only thing we will be allowed to do is press A to hike the ball.

 

[Striker]

My thought on the IR players is that they should be out. Ok, so you guys say real life doesn't affect our league, but FMT was adamant about Truelize not using Vick. And considering that our league doesn't have real injuries since there are no leagues in Madden, it's a way to add that depth. Keep the ones that are only out a couple of games and take out the IR players.

I agree.

 

[sableholic]

By Season 3, the only thing we will be allowed to do is press A to hike the ball.

I agree with this rule as well

 

[AirBrian]

I'm covering the Rams until Big Z gets back from wherever he is, so hit me up for some games! I'm available tonight but let's say after 8:30 PM (CDT) so I can get a couple games of practice in.

 

[Andokuky]

I don't think there needs to be a total ban on using DE's. People should know not to loop around with them though, that's pure cheese. I rarely control a lineman.. idk how people do it all game. It gets boring, nothing I do with them ever generates any pressure so I would rather just let the CPU do it.

 

[LJ11]

This is what I don't understand, spreading isn't allowed because it brings too much heat around the edges, manually looping a DE feels cheesy to some, so how on earth are we going to generate pressure without blitzing. You can't have both banned. If we can't control a DE manually, then we should allow spreading, let the CPU generate the heat for us. Manually looping the DE is really effective with fast pass rushers, but as long as it isn't abused I'm kind of fine with it.

With that said, offensive line shifting should be back next season. According to a member of the Madden community EA had it in when he played an early Beta of the game but they removed it for unknown reasons. I guess EA needed an extra feature to boast about for '09.

 

[Fifty]

Well if you look at the numbers for D line sacks, they're above average, and this is without spreading the line. I hear your point but I don't think we have a shortage of sacks. It seems to me that there's no problem for most people creating pressure on the QB with just a regular pass rush + the occasional LB/Secondary blitzer. Perhaps it's because people hold on to the ball for too long, but nevertheless the sacks are there.

 

[Matrix]

Konex,I'm free to play tonight anytime past 11 pm eastern.

I want to finish my awful season up!

 

[DenogginizerOS]

I am going to try a few teams out before I make my decision on whether or not to play next season. Wellington, Sable, Bob, and any others that are interested can send me invites later if you want to play some scrimmages. I am out of the playoffs, but I really want to find a happier place with this game because I do think it is pretty awesome how this group communicates and commits itself to this game.

 

[sableholic]

I am going to try a few teams out before I make my decision on whether or not to play next season. Wellington, Sable, Bob, and any others that are interested can send me invites later if you want to play some scrimmages. I am out of the playoffs, but I really want to find a happier place with this game because I do think it is pretty awesome how this group communicates and commits itself to this game.

I'll be around tonight I believe, so if I see you online i'll definitely scrimmage.

 

[Rorschach]

Yeah, if anyone wants a scrim, Rorschach is always willing!

Konex,I'm free to play tonight anytime past 11 pm eastern.

I want to finish my awful season up!

>:| You better finish strong! No finishing out on a whimper. None of us 67 teams made it, but you have a chance to spoiler the shit out of someone's season. DO IT!!!!!! >:|







Also, it would mean this 67 team would still have a chance.

 

[Fifty]

Yeah, Matrix, if you beat Konex and Rors beats Bluemax..Rors is in and Konex is out. Don't you want to make a difference? No negativity!

 

[Wellington]

LJ! When are you around tonight buddy boy.

Denog I will gladly play you.

As far as the DLine issue goes, I told FMT last night, but whatever EA did to the Giants line after the last roster update, I like it! It's totally boning my opponents though.

 

[DenogginizerOS]

I want to get to the second season. Malley or Jube, can you play tonight?

 

[LJ11]

LJ! When are you around tonight buddy boy.

Denog I will gladly play you.

As far as the DLine issue goes, I told FMT last night, but whatever EA did to the Giants line after the last roster update, I like it! It's totally boning my opponents though.

8pm good for you?

I'll be on Madden around 6:30pm if anyone wants to play.

 

[Wellington]

8pm good for you?

I'll be on Madden around 6:30pm if anyone wants to play.

Can we play at 6:30? Going to meet up with my gf at around 8. :/

 

[LJ11]

Can we play at 6:30? Going to meet up with my gf at around 8. :/

Sure.

I'll be on Madden around 5pm est, if anyone wants to play.

 

[Matrix]

Yeah, Matrix, if you beat Konex and Rors beats Bluemax..Rors is in and Konex is out. Don't you want to make a difference? No negativity!

Id love nothing more than to beat the CPU controlled Jags,be a spoiler,but the last two games I have just been destroyed and I feel totally off

Plus id love to help out my fellow red ringer Rors.

 

[ChrisJames]

Lonestar/DM, let me know when you want to play.

 

[DenogginizerOS]

What is Jube's status? Is there a time he regularly is available?

 

[Slo]

Yeah, Matrix, if you beat Konex and Rors beats Bluemax..Rors is in and Konex is out. Don't you want to make a difference? No negativity!

So if Rors wins he knocks himself out of the playoffs? WTF

 

[Rorschach]

You can do eet, Matrix!!

So if Rors wins he knocks himself out of the playoffs? WTF

Reading comprehension FTL

BTW- guys looking for True, he doesn't have a computation box. Best bet is to get to him on XBL.

 

[Slo]

I see things exactly as I want them to be!

 

[SickBoy]

DJDemon... when are you available? (read on for info on my schedule)

I'm covering the Rams until Big Z gets back from wherever he is, so hit me up for some games! I'm available tonight but let's say after 8:30 PM (CDT) so I can get a couple games of practice in.

Hey, I'm not available until late night hours for most/all of the week. What's the outer limits of your availability?

 

[Ramirez]

Guess I should have been more clear, I think using a DE to start a play is lame, now once you see that it's a toss or something, yea then it's fair game to change. I see it as the same way with blitzing, once a guy is in the backfield it's fair game to take control of him.

I have been playing as the NT lately, just due to me using alot more crazy ass zone blitzes where I usually only have one guy in certain areas, and I'd rather not chance myself controlling him due to lag. I can't get any kind of pressure on a pass playing a lineman personally, it's always my LBs unless the play just goes on for a long time. Kiesel does lead my team in sacks though (15), and he's a DE, but I've never manually controlled him at the beginning of a play.

Also, I'd like to play tonight Brian, that would wrap up all of my regular season games, GT is TJ Ramirez, and my AIM is CtownSkins3, hit me up when you're free, I'll be here all night.

 

[Wellington]

Well I was playing a game the other night, within one score, and at the end of the game I managed to get the guy into a fourth and 15. He calls a PA pass and you would think that the attacking linemen would be headed in for the QB but they all bit. I managed to sack the QB with the guy I was controlling.

Surely something like that really can't be a problem. You'd be surprised how many people run a PA pass on third and long.

 

[LJ11]

Well I was playing a game the other night, within one score, and at the end of the game I managed to get the guy into a fourth and 15. He calls a PA pass and you would think that the attacking linemen would be headed in for the QB but they all bit. I managed to sack the QB with the guy I was controlling.

Surely something like that really can't be a problem. You'd be surprised how many people run a PA pass on third and long.

That's one my biggest issues with the game on the defensive side, defenders play the run on 4 out of 5 playactions, it's even more effective on rollouts. If it's 3rd and 15 why would you play the run? No matter how shitty the players awareness is, there's no need to play the run first in those situations. When I pick a down linemen I play the pass first and run second in certain instances, so the PA doesn't suck my defender straight into the RB. You're kind of forced to play as a lineman to avoid those situations.

 

[Ramirez]

That's one my biggest issues with the game on the defensive side, defenders play the run on 4 out of 5 playactions, it's even more effective on rollouts. If it's 3rd and 15 why would you play the run? No matter how shitty the players awareness is, there's no need to play the run first in those situations. When I pick a down linemen I play the pass first and run second in certain instances, so the PA doesn't suck my defender straight into the RB. You're kind of forced to play as a lineman to avoid those situations.

That's odd, because I can be running all over a defense and I still have .5 seconds to get the ball out on a PA. :lol

 

[Rorschach]

That's odd, because I can be running all over a defense and I still have .5 seconds to get the ball out on a PA. :lol

Yeah, I won't even attempt the PA against a team with a good defense (Bears/Jags for example). I'll get sacked before faking the handover 100% of the time.

My team, on the other hand, does bite every time... And I do too.

[edit] Matrix: if you win, I'll wear a Texans avatar for the next week! Make it so!

 

[Matrix]

Damn pressure Look at what Konex errrr the Jags cpu did to me earlier in the season.

 

[AirBrian]

DJDemon... when are you available? (read on for info on my schedule)



Hey, I'm not available until late night hours for most/all of the week. What's the outer limits of your availability?

Define late night hours. I'm usually up until midnight during the week. If need be, I can stay up later on Thursday night...1 AM? On the weekend, anything is game.

Ramirez, I'll be on later tonight. How does 9 PM (CDT) sound? If not, suggest a time and we'll work it in! I won't be getting home from work though for another hour or so.

 

[DMczaf]

New roster update is coming tomorrow and there's a new patch that's going through certification now.

 

[Fifty]

New roster update is coming tomorrow and theres a new patch complete thats going through certification now.

This is like the night before Christmas. Can't wait to see the ups and downs and weapon changes. I'm such a madden geek.

 

[Ramirez]

Yea 10 EST is fine.

 

[Matrix]

Wait...could that mean I lose AJ since he hasnt been playing!?

KONEX WE PLAY TONIGHT!!!!! where are you?


Read this thread and stop posting in the Backstreet Boys thread...

:|

 

[DMczaf]

Its an early Christmas sneak peak! Warning, lots of text. I believe the comments are from EA. lol @ Rex)

http://www.pastapadre.com/1803/comp...n-08-roster-update-due-out-tomorrow#more-1803

Roster Update – Next Gen

Weapons

* HB Marshawn Lynch – Bills - Becomes Trucking/Power Back – A smash mouth running back who runs very physical.
* HB LaMont Jordan – Raiders - Becomes Trucking/Power Back – A load to take down. His big body moves incredibly well.
* WR Dwayne Bowe – Chiefs - Becomes Spectacular Catch Receiver – Has made some very acrobatic catches in his first year.
* HB Joseph Addai – Colts - Becomes Elusive Back – Very shifty behind the Colts great offensive line.
* DT Darnell Docket – Cardinals – Becomes Power Move DL – Getting to the QB better than any other DT in the NFL right now.
* DE Kyle Vanden Bosch – Titans – Becomes Power Move DL – Another high motor defensive end that plays to the whistle and gets to the QB.
* TE Jason Witten – Cowboys – Becomes Route Running Weapon – A great pass catching tight end that is having his best season thus far.
* WR Terrell Owens – Cowboys – Loses Hands Weapon – Too many drops to be a hands weapon.
* HB Adrian Peterson – Vikings – Becomes Speed Weapon – Looks like the fastest and quickest running back in the league.
* QB Derek Anderson – Browns – Becomes Cannon Arm QB – Was deserving of this from the get go but has earned it this year firing the ball downfield.
* WR Reggie Wayne – Colts – Loses Spectacular Catch WR – Makes great catches but not the high flying ones.
* LB Joey Porter – Dolphins – Loses Finesse Move – Looking like his time at the top is nearing an end.
* WR Laveranues Coles – Jets – Becomes Spectacular Catch WR – Making great high flying catches week after week now.
* HB Leon Washington – Jets – Becomes Elusive Back – You don’t want to be in the open field with this guy.
* LB E.J. Henderson – Vikings – Becomes Big Hitter – His hits can be heard everywhere. A thumper.
* LT Bryant McKinnie – Vikings – Becomes Crushing Run Blocker – Combines with Hutchinson to form holes giant running lanes.
* WR Andre Davis – Texans – Becomes Speed Weapon - A vertical home run hitter for the Texans.

Ratings Up

* CB Marlin Jackson – 83 to 84 – Key contributor to an improved Colts defense.
* TE Dallas Clark – 87 to 88 – Having a pro bowl season for the Colts juggernaut.
* HB Marshawn Lynch – 83 to 84 – Running hard for the quarterback challenged Buffalo Bills.
* HB LaMont Jordan – 85 to 86 – Looks back to his old self after a year off. A load to tackle for sure.
* QB Tony Romo – 89 to 90 – What did Romo show us this week? How fast and athletic the Dallas QB is.
* QB Brett Favre – 90 to 92 – With little to no running game Favre has been the sole offensive reason the Packers have moved the ball this year.
* WR Donald Driver – 93 to 94 – Vastly underrated by most everyone. He is starting to get his due.
* HB Willie Parker – 90 to 91 – Fast Willie led the NFL in rushing up until his bye week.
* WR Dwayne Bowe – 77 to 79 – How bad did he look in Hard Knocks? How good does he look now.
* DT Darnell Dockett – 87 to 88 – Leads all defensive tackles in sacks. He is starting to live up to his potential in the Cardinals new defense.
* LB Michael Boley – 82 to 85 – Big time tackler in Atlanta.
* CB Phillip Buchanon – 77 to 80 – Hasn’t missed a beat in filling in for the injured Brian Kelly.
* QB Kurt Warner – 80 to 83 – The Cardinals offense is at its best when he is in there running the hurry up.
* WR Greg Jennings – 85 to 86 – Showed that he is back on the game winning touchdown run vs. the Chargers.
* WR James Jones – 78 to 79 – With the exception of the two fumbles vs. the Bears this rookie has the body language and physique of a veteran.
* WR Ruvell Martin – 69 to 71 – Has made several nice grabs in the Packers pass happy offense.
* TE Donald Lee – 78 to 80 – Starting for Bubba Franks now, he adds a new dimension of stretching the defense down the seam.
* HB DeShawn Wynn – 73 to 76 – Getting plenty of touches in the running back by committee Packer backfield.
* HB Vernand Morency – 79 to 81 – Definitely the most explosive and agile of the Packer backs.
* FB Korey Hall – 75 to 83 – The former college linebacker is the making the transition to NFL fullback.
* K Mason Crosby – 81 to 86 – Clutch kicker before his two misses vs. Washington.
* HB Jason Wright – 73 to 76 – Second string back in Cleveland. Filled in for an injured Jamal Lewis for the better part of two games.
* FB Mike Sellers – 83 to 87 – Dump off option for Jason Campbell. Ran over and through several Lions a couple weeks ago.
* HB Derrick Ward – 77 to 80 – Came out of nowhere to fill in for the Brandon Jacobs. Quick hard runner.
* HB Brandon Jacobs – 83 to 84 – If he stays healthy he will put up big numbers behind the underrated Giants Oline.
* WR Plaxico Burress – 92 to 93 – Starting to live up to his enormous potential and is shedding the “Plexiglass” nickname.
* FS Calvin Lowry – 70 to 74 – Starting for the tough as nails Tennessee defense.
* CB Fakhir Brown – 80 to 84 – Intercepted two passes, with 6 pass deflections, in his first game back from a 4 game suspension.
* CB Jabari Greer – 69 to 75 – Stepped up when injuries ravished the entire Bills defense. Shouldn’t lose his starting job.
* DE Anthony Hargrove – 73 to 76 – Underrated pass rusher that missed the first 4 games due to suspension.
* QB Trent Edwards – 70 to 74 – Can he win a game with his arm and is he the starter? The rookie has filled in pretty well for the injured Losman.
* K Nick Folk – 76 to 81 – The rookie kicker beat out Martin Gramatica in the preseason and is drilling everything so far. Including the game winning FG vs. the Bills twice.
* CB Jacques Reeves – 65 to 75 – Nickel back for the improving Cowboys pass defense.
* LB Anthony Spencer – 75 to 78 – His hold on a starting position might be coming to an end with the return of Greg Ellis but he has been solid so far.
* TE Jason Witten – 93 to 94 – Creating nightmares for opposing defenses, except for the Patriots, he already has his tickets to Honolulu.
* WR Ben Obomanu – 68 to 70 – Getting some playing time with the injuries to the Seattle receiving core.
* WR Brad Smith – 65 to 75 – Taking over as the Jets third WR.
* DT Rodrique Wright – 68 to 71 – Getting some playing time after a year on the IR.
* HB Adrian Peterson – 88 to 89 – I can only think of one running back that looks even close to as good as AD right now. The only guy that can stop him right now is Coach Childress.
* DE Aaron Kampman – 95 to 97 – Creating pure havoc on opposing offenses right now.
* DE Cullen Jenkins – 86 to 87 – The stats only say 1 sack, but he has been great defending the run and rushing the passer.
* DE Kabeer Gbaja Biamila – 86 to 88 – KGB is back to sacking the QB again. A great tandem with Kampman.
* LB Brady Poppinga – 75 to 78 – That other LB for Green Bay.
* SS Atari Bigby – 75 to 80 – A huge hitter at safety that might be a liability in the passing game but thumps running backs.
* FS Nick Collins – 78 to 80 – Has shown little progress from his rookie year but with Bigby forms an above average run stopping duo at safety.
* DT Corey Williams – 84 to 85 – Probably the best of the bunch of the Packers defensive tackles. A true pass rushing DT.
* DT Ryan Pickett – 82 to 85 – Big defensive tackle that starts for the stingy Packer defense.
* TE Desmond Clark – 83 to 84 – Has stepped up his game with the emergence of Greg Olsen.
* TE Greg Olsen – 80 to 81 – A true pass catching tight end. Is improving each week.
* HB Kenny Watson – 77 to 79 – Some say he will split carries with Rudi when Rudi is healthy. I wouldn’t go that far but he filled in admirably.
* LG Stacy Andrews – 76 to 79 – Mammoth starting guard for the Bengals.
* DE Justin Smith – 87 to 89 – High motor pass rushing end.
* WR T.J. Houshmandzadeh – 91 to 93 – One of the premier #2 WR’s in the league. Fearless over the middle.
* DT Kyle Williams – 80 to 81 – Stout defender holding down the middle for the surprising Buffalo defense.
* LB John DiGiorgio – 70 to 72 – Starting now for the injured Posluszny at MLB.
* WR Roscoe Parrish – 73 to 75 – The new #2 WR in Buffalo with the season ending injury to Peerless Price.
* WR Josh Reed – 74 to 75 – Slot WR for Buffalo. Not the fastest WR around but goes over the middle and has good hands.
* RT Erik Pears – 79 to 81 – Starting RT for the Denver offense. They just plug in guys in their system and all they do is run the ball.
* RG Montrae Holland – 79 to 81 – Big RG for the Denver Oline.
* LB Nate Webster – 76 to 80 – Starting at strong side linebacker for the Denver defense.
* LG Chris Kuper – 74 to 78 – Injuries have forced this backup into the starting lineup.
* DT Amon Gordon – 77 to 78 – A starter for the Denver defense at defensive tackle.
* QB Derek Anderson – 79 to 81 – This big armed QB has the surprising Cleveland offense scoring big points.
* WR Braylon Edwards – 87 to 88 – He has some of the best catches of the year thus far. Averaging almost 100 yards and more than a TD per game.
* DT Jovan Haye – 78 to 80 – Came out of nowhere to start for the Bucs defense.
* DT Greg Peterson – 66 to 70 – The late round draft pick is getting playing time for the solid as usual Bucs defense.
* FS Tanard Jackson – 75 to 79 – A big hitter at the safety position. A rookie starter who has played well.
* LB Calvin Pace – 70 to 72 – Starting now at OLB for the Cardinals. A big game vs. the Redskins means he will keep going up.
* FS Jarrad Page – 76 to 80 – A first time starter this year has helped the surprising Chiefs defense to a good start.
* DE Tamba Hali – 86 to 87 – Combines with Jared Allen to form one of the top pass rushing end tandems in the AFC.
* DE Jared Allen – 92 to 93 – Leads the league in sacks after missing two games due to suspension. A real problem for offenses.
* SS Bernard Pollard – 81 to 82 – A huge hitter who thumps receivers over the middle.
* WR Jeff Webb – 65 to 70 – Injuries forced him into action and he responded with a 7 catches for 78 yards day vs. the Bengals.
* CB Nathan Jones – 62 to 67 – The dime back for the Cowboys.
* HB Ronnie Brown – 88 to 89 – Was one of the top backs in the league with little to no help from the quarterback position or offensive line before a knee injury ended his season.
* CB Michael Lehan – 68 to 73 – Has moved his way into the starting lineup for the lowly Dolphins.
* WR Wes Welker – 86 to 87 – Starting to show he was worth the huge contract. Catches almost everything he gets his hands on and is extremely elusive and tough.
* TE Brent Celek – 67 to 70 – An injury to LJ Smith forced this rookie into action and he stepped up.
* QB Joey Harrington – 79 to 80 – It’s difficult to be hard on Joey Heisman now that they are down to their 3rd Left Tackle with no running game. Gonna get worse before it gets better.
* DT Trey Lewis – 65 to 67 – The late round draft pick has had to play with so many injuries to the Atlanta Dline but he has stepped up.
* WR Roddy White – 78 to 79 – Still gets a case of the drops too often but has put up solid numbers in the Falcons passing game.
* DE Osi Umenyiora – 87 to 90 – Has feasted on terrible tackles but still is as explosive as they get at the defensive end position.
* QB David Garrard – 83 to 84 – A true game manager. A fast and heady QB should take the Jaguars to the playoffs.
* SS Kerry Rhodes – 94 to 95 – One of the best safeties in the game.
* WR Laveranues Coles – 91 to 92 – Another underrated WR. Could be a big deep threat if the QB had a bigger arm. If Kellen Clemens gets the nod he could be beating defenses deep again.
* DE Kenyon Coleman – 79 to 82 – 40 tackles through 7 games at the defensive end position. More than doing his part.
* HB Leon Washington – 80 to 81 – They need to find more ways to get this guy the ball. The former FSU standout is a playmaker.
* CB David Barrett – 76 to 78 – He was benched in the second half vs. the Bengals but he had been starting before that.
* RG Junius Coston – 70 to 73 – New RG for the Packer Oline.
* K Stephen Gostkowski – 82 to 87 – The accurate kicker for the New England machine.
* WR Derrick Mason – 85 to 87 – Who leads the NFL in receptions through 7 weeks? This guy.
* LB Jarret Johnson – 80 to 82 – Adalius Thomas’ replacement. A tough strong end/OLB that should get to the QB.
* DT Anthony Montgomery – 64 to 77 – The big guy in the middle for the Redskins. They found they couldn’t keep him off the field or out of the starting lineup.
* WR Antwaan Randle El – 74 to 77 – One of the bright spots of the lackluster Redskin receiving core.
* QB Jason Campbell – 82 to 83 – The injuries to the offensive line have created a chain effect on the Redskin offense. Cooley has to block more, the running game isn’t as effective, and the receivers are mediocre at best. But Campbell has played well.
* LB Rocky McIntosh – 81 to 84 – Looking like another big time LB from Miami. He is starting to make a name for himself.
* WR Lance Moore – 73 to 75 – Returns kicks and punts for the Saints and is trying to get more touches in the receiving game with the demotion of Devery Henderson.
* FB Carey Davis – 85 to 86 – New starting fullback for the Steelers. A big boy who can catch the ball out of the backfield.
* HB Najeh Davenport – 79 to 80 – Goal line and third down back for the Steelers. Packs a punch.
* LB James Harrison – 83 to 84 – “Silverback” is a nasty LB for the Steel curtain. Should be close to 100 tackles with 6+ sacks at the end of the year.
* RT Willie Colon – 75 to 79 – New starting RT for the Steelers.
* DT Pat Williams – 90 to 91 – Fat Pat is the immovable object in the middle of the Vikings defense.
* LB E.J. Henderson – 85 to 86 – A big hitter who is a big part of the Vikings rush defense.
* LT Bryant McKinnie – 94 to 95 – Hutchinson and McKinnie form the best left side in all of football.
* RG Anthony Herrera – 74 to 78 – The new RG for the Vikings.
* RT Ryan Cook – 74 to 77 – The RT for the Vikings. He helps pave the way for All Day Adrian Peterson.
* CB Cortland Finnegan – 79 to 82 – A feisty cornerback for the Titans who hits hard and is a playmaker.
* DT Albert Haynesworth – 87 to 90 – Probably the best DT in all of football right now. If he keeps it up he will be the elite DT in Madden in no time.
* DT Tony Brown – 77 to 81 – He starts opposite Haynesworth for the Titans defense.
* LE Antwan Odom – 78 to 82 – A true mammoth defensive end (6-5 275) for the Titans.
* WR Chris Davis – 68 to 70 – Has looked exceptional returning kicks for the Titans. He looks much faster than his combine speed.
* WR Kevin Walter – 71 to 73 – The possession receiver has filled in for Andre Johnson and had some big games.
* WR Andre Davis – 70 to 74 – Another guy chipping in the loss of Andre Johnson. A vertical threat the Texan offense.
* WR Kevin Curtis – 83 to 84 – “White Lightning” is the new vertical threat for McNabb. He should have some big days this year for the Eagles.

Ratings Down

* HB Shaun Alexander – 95 to 91 – Starting to look like a poor mans Duce Staley.
* FS Brian Dawkins – 96 to 94 – Age is starting to catch up with B-Dawk.
* QB Matt Leinart – 84 to 83 – Cardinals look better with Warner in there right now.
* QB Rex Grossman – 83 to 78 – Long time coming.
* QB Drew Brees – 95 to 93 – Not what I expected from the Saints and their QB.
* WR Terrell Owens – 97 to 96 – Too many drops to be up there with the rest of the elite WR’s.
* RG Damien Woody – 91 to 89 – Has been a healthy inactive this year.
* WR Brian Clark – 72 to 70 – Buried on the Broncos depth chart.
* TE Daniel Graham – 86 to 85 – Not involved at all in the Denver offense.
* DE Simeon Rice – 89 to 88 – Shoulder injury is hampering this former superstars season.
* DT Alvin McKinley – 79 to 78 – Not starting and not helping a terrible Denver run defense.
* LB Joey Porter – 92 to 90 – A shadow of his former self. Just got his first sack in week 7.
* QB Byron Leftwich – 82 to 80 – Has to prove his rating after being cut in the preseason.
* WR Joe Horn – 85 to 84 – Still might not be healthy. His numbers back that up.
* WR Ashley Lelie – 74 to 70 – A bystander in the 49ers offense. Has never lived up to the hype. Just a vertical route runner who might not be a burner anymore.
* CB Andre Dyson – 84 to 79 – Not starting anymore and playing time has been limited.
* RT George Foster – 84 to 79 – Benched several times this year due to poor play.
* FS Eugene Wilson – 88 to 86 – Might be scheme related or so that he is fresh for the end of season but some of his reps have been taken.
* DT Terdell Sands – 85 to 81 – Benched for Gerard Warren which is not a good thing.
* DT Hollis Thomas – 85 to 80 – Benched on a terrible Saints defense.
* WR Devery Henderson – 80 to 76 – Drop, Catch, Drop, Drop. Not a good pattern for the speedster. Hands are an issue right now.
* DE Patrick Kerney – 92 to 91 – Not as productive as he once was.
* RG Floyd Womack – 82 to 79 – Been overrated in Madden for a while. A 37 year old starts over him.
* FB Dan Kreider – 88 to 84 – Lost his starting job recently. Still a solid FB.
* RG Artis Hicks – 82 to 80 – Lost his starting job recently in Minnesota.

Transactions

* WR Michael Lewis – Signs with 49ers
* WR Brandon Williams – Released by 49ers
* WR Taylor Jacobs – Released by 49ers
* WR Bryan Gilmore – Signs with 49ers
* HB Ken Darby – Added to Bucs
* HB Josh Scobey – Released by Bills
* CB Jerametrius Butler – Signs with Bills
* HB Clifton Dawson – Released by Bengals/Signs with Colts
* HB DeDe Dorsey – Signs with Bengals
* HB Pierre Thomas – Added to Saints
* TE Courtney Anderson – Signs with Lions
* HB Aveion Cason – Signs with Lions
* WR Keenan McCardell – Signs with Redskins
* WR Anthony Mix – Released by Giants
* WR Domenik Hixon – Released by Broncos/Signs with Giants
* FS Josh Gattis – Signs with Bears
* SS Brandon McGowan – Added to Bears
* LB Andre Frazier – Added to Steelers
* LB William Kershaw – Released by Chiefs
* LB Nate Harris – Added to Chiefs
* C Lyle Sendlein – Added to Cardinals
* LT Renardo Foster – Added to Falcons
* WR Bobby Sippio – Added to Chiefs
* HB Andre Hall – Added to Broncos
* WR Glenn Martinez – Added to Broncos
* C Nick Leckey – Signs with Rams
* QB Matt Moore – Added to Panthers
* FB Mack Strong – Retires from Seahawks
* FB Leonard Weaver – Added to Seahawks
* C Chukky Okobi – Released by Cardinals
* LG Keydrick Vincent – Signs with Cardinals
* SS Bhawoh Jue – Signs with Rams
* QB Tim Rattay – Signs with Cardinals
* FS Lamont Thompson – Released by Dolphins
* DT Sam Rayburn – Signs with Dolphins
* CB Lenny Walls – Released by Rams
* SS Jarrod Cooper – Signs with Raiders
* QB Vinny Testaverde – Signs with Panthers
* CB Keiwan Ratliff – Released by Bengals
* CB David Jones – Signs with Bengals
* RT Kelly Butler – Released by Browns
* CB Brandon McDonald – Added to Browns
* WR Jerheme Urban – Added to Cardinals
* WR Craphonso Thorpe – Added to Colts
* CB Tory James – Released by Patriots
* SS Mel Mitchell – Added to Patriots
* CB Duane Starks – Released by Raiders
* WR Travis Taylor – Released by Raiders
* LB Jon Alston – Added to Raiders
* DE Eric Moore – Released by Rams
* DE Trevor Johnson – Added to Rams
* HB Cory Ross – Released by Ravens
* FS Omar Stoutmire – Released by Redskins
* C Chris White – Added to Texans
* WR Chris Chambers – Traded from Dolphins to Chargers
* SS Donovin Darius – Released by Dolphins
* HB Michael Bennett – Traded from Chiefs to Bucs
* DE Quentin Moses – Released by Cardinals
* WR Koren Robinson – Added to Packers

Injuries

* SS Sabby Piscitelli – Bucs – IR Foot
* C Steve McKinney – Texans – IR Knee
* HB Carnell Williams – Bucs – IR Knee
* LT Luke Pettigout – Bucs – IR Knee
* HB Deuce McAllister – Saints – IR Knee
* LG Mark Setterstrom – Rams – IR Knee
* RG Jason Whittle – Bills – IR Hamstring
* TE Dan Campbell – Lions – IR Elbow
* HB Alvin Pearman – Seahawks – IR Knee
* TE David Thomas – Patriots – IR Foot
* LB Lemar Marshall – Bengals – IR Achilles
* WR Peerless Price – Bills – IR Neck
* LT Wayne Gandy – Falcons – IR Knee
* QB Jake Delhomme – Panthers – IR Elbow
* C Tom Nalen – Broncos – IR Bicep
* LG Ben Hamiton – Broncos – IR Concussion
* SS Jerome Carter – Rams – IR Foot
* RT Adam Goldberg – Rams – IR Knee
* WR Roy Hall – Colts – IR Shoulder
* WR Jerome Mathis – Texans – IR Leg
* DE Darrion Scott – Vikings – IR Foot
* QB Chris Simms – Bucs – IR Spleen
* QB Matt Leinart – Cardinals – IR Collarbone
* DT Chartric Darby – Seahawks – IR Knee
* WR Eric Parker – Chargers – IR – Toe
* WR Tab Perry – Bengals – IR - Hip