If you've ever set foot inside a football huddle, you know how fast the game moves. The play clock runs down in a hurry and opposing defenses do their best to confuse and intimidate. For the quarterback, there's even more going on - managing the clock, reading blitzes and memorizing a complex playbook.
It's no different in Madden. You're the quarterback and coach, with no coordinators or assistants to help.
It's therefore pretty tough to figure out your strategy and learn your playbook once the action beginis. Sure, you can make adjustments, but the real work happens before the game. They say practice makes perfect and it's true whether you're on the field or playing online.
Still, football players are forced to practice - their playing time is at risk. Meanwhile, the gamer has every reason not to.
I get it, of course. Who wants to study the playbook when they can be playing games? Not many people, that's for sure. But if you want to be the best, you've got to beat the best, and the only way to do that is to be prepared.
First things first, find a team and commit to it. Then, get to work figuring out the best game plan for their offense. Teams with power backs and solid offensive lines probably pound the rock up the middle, while speedy rushers can use screen passes and outside handoffs to make plays. Decide on your best third-down options and check out the individual attributes of your key players... it'll all come in handy very quickly.
Next, get to know your playbook - you may know what you want, but you don't want to be searching through page after page while the clock is winding down. Instead, find plays that work. Try them in a practice setting against varying defensive looks, getting a feel for what works in different situations.
Look, games are supposed to be fun, and this can be dull... I get it. But a few hours of work will have you ready to dominate on the field. Coming into a game with a definitive plan is a great feeling, allowing you to focus on executing between the lines. Have audibles ready and leave your rival gasping for air by using the no-huddle - you'll have options like these when you know what you're doing.
Most importantly, (like the title says) stick to your plan.
Every team has strengths and weaknesses and it rarely pays to get away from your strengths. Throwing teams usually get conservative with the lead while running teams often throw too much from behind. It's asking for trouble, by giving into the situation.
Instead, stay with what's worked for you in the past, even when early results aren't pretty. Sure, at some point you may have to try something new, but only when it's clear your game plan won't work.... reminding us exactly why the plan is so important in the first place.
If you get to know your playbook, plan well and play your best, the game of football slows down. Everything gets easier, you're in control and your odds of winning get a whole lot higher. Think about quarterbacks known for their preparation - Peyton Manning, Drew Brees and Tom Brady, among others - they all spend countless hours watching film and reading the playbook... their results: Spectacular.
Now think about guys that aren't exactly known for their work ethic - say, JaMarcus Russell. His results: Um, not great.
Actually, that pretty much sums up my argument... who'd you rather be - Peyton or Russell? Nuf said.
How do you prep for the action? Drop a line in the comments section below and make sure to check out our Madden 10 PS3 and Xbox 360 gaming arenas. Once you're ready to face the best, challenge others from Rivalspot's community to games and tournaments. Bring your A-Game and I'll see you there.