SBS: Madden and ESPN 2k5

[MizzouRah]

*best when viewed in classic yellow mode*
Side by Side Franchises: Madden 2005 and ESPN 2k5

This idea comes from a user over at Operation Sports. I'll be using the Rams and playing in franchise mode on both Madden and ESPN. So far, I like both games, so this will be a good way to get an idea how each stack up from week to week.

I won't be going too much into depth, I'll play each week with both games and post game stats and I few other tidbits as I go along. Since I'm away for work, I should have some time to get going this week.

Setups:(Xbox)

Madden - All-Pro default, maxed penalty sliders, 11 mins accelerated clock, updated xbox live rosters, preseason off
ESPN - All-Pro default, preseason off, maxed penalty sliders (except for clipping, which is turned off), 9 mins clock, 5 mins sim clock, weekly prep turned off to save time, default rosters



Up next: The 2004 Season

* for some reason ESPN doesn't have the correct preseason games, so I'll turn preseason off *

Here are both of my paid franchise web addresses at www.dynastymanager.com
I am using the boxscore html code from the NFL toolbox to post here. If you have the time, dynasty manager is an excellent way to track your franchises, and at only $6 per franchise - which you can use over and over per sport, it's cheap as well. The owner does some great work and it's easy to learn and create stunning webpages. I don't keep these up anymore as I don't have the time, it's faster posting a boxscore and a short writeup here.
http://www.dynastymanager.com/dynasty.cgi?u=MizzouRah&y=2004
http://www.dynastymanager.com/nfl_dynasty.cgi?u=MizzouRah&y=2005

[MizzouRah]

ESPN: Game 1 vs Arizona (0-0)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F Arizona 7 17 7 14 45 St. Louis 7 3 10 0 20

Visitor GAME STATS Home 412 Total Yds 352 8 First Downs 13 84 Rushing Yds 120 19-0 Rushes-Fumb 23-0 1 Rushing TD 1 328 Passing Yds 236 12-22-4 Comp-Att-TD 13-29-1 3 Interceptions 2 4/9 3rd Down Conv. 5/16 10:51 Time of Pos. 21:09

The Rams are crushed by Arizona in their home opener as QB Cade McCown tore up the Rams defense, passing for 328 yards and 4 td's. WR Anquan Boldin was the POG - catching 7 passes for 211 yards and 2 td's. Rookie WR Larry Fitzgerald had a td as well in his NFL debut for the Cardinals.

On the defensive side of the ball, Rams LB Pisa Tinoisamoa had 7 tackles and CB Travis Fisher had 2 int's. Arizona's S Adrian Wilson had 10 tackles and 2 sacks.

The Rams were dominated by a surprising Arizona offense who stunned the sellout crowd at the Edward Jones Dome. "They took us right out of our gameplan, and we couldn't recover." The Rams have a new defensive coordinator this year as Lovie Smith was signed as the head coach of the Chicago Bears in the offseason. "If we don't correct things, it's going to be a long season", said coach Mike Martz.

The Rams will head to Atlanta next week to take on Michael Vick and the Atlanta Falcons.

Injuries of note: none


My take: Quite an eye opener as my first real franchise game with ESPN. I'll have to learn how to play better defense or Vick is going to really pick me apart. I'll also say this again, gameplay is really fun with ESPN and the presentation is something to behold. The game just feels so much like a real NFL game.

Todd

[MizzouRah]

Madden: Game 1 vs Arizona (0-0)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F Arizona 3 7 3 18 31 St. Louis 7 3 7 0 17

Visitor GAME STATS Home 372 Total Yds 211 20 First Downs 14 65 Rushing Yds 50 25-0 Rushes-Fumb 25-0 0 Rushing TD 1 307 Passing Yds 161 23-46-2 Comp-Att-TD 17-36-1 2 Interceptions 1 5/14 3rd Down Conv. 6/16 25:33 Time of Pos. 22:27

The Rams couldn't keep the Cardinals at bay and lose at home 31-17. The Rams were up 17-16 late in the 4th quarter when Marc Bulger goes down with an injured wrist. The Cardinals march down the field and Cade McCown hits Larry Fitzgerald for a 39 yard td to win the game. They squibed the kick, no one touched the ball from the Rams, and they recovered for a td. BS call, but I lost the game anyway.

On the defensive side of the ball, Kevin Garrett had 9 tackles for the Rams. MLB Ronald McKinnon had 8 tackles for the Cardinals.

"It was a disappointing loss, but we know what we need to do next week", said a tired Mike Martz. Martz was out coached all night by Denny Green.

POG - ARZ WR Rookie Larry Fitzgerald - 7 catches 136 yards and 2 td's.

Injuries of note: QB Marc Bulger left the game with a wrist injury, but is expected to return next week vs Atlanta.

My take: The gameplay was a bit easier for me in Madden thus far, but I still lost the game. I will start with Madden next week and do it that way from now on. Two games in a row with a game because the controls are a little bit different.

Todd

[CraigSca]

Ok, first question. How the HECK did you get that cool HTML code?

[Eaglesfan27]

Originally Posted by CraigSca

Ok, first question. How the HECK did you get that cool HTML code?

I'm wondering the exact same thing

[MizzouRah]

Madden: St. Louis (0-1) at Atlanta (0-1)
San Francisco beat Atlanta 10-7

ESPN: St. Louis (0-1) at Atlanta (1-0)
Atlanta beat San Francisco 10-7


Isn't ironic about the Atlanta game?

My take: No matter what your stand in the ESPN vs Madden saga is, both games are fun to play. This sounds like a broken record, but if Madden had ESPN's presentation and ESPN had Madden's franchise mode, we'd be in football bliss... but as your know, that will never happen and I think we'll always have a battle for supremency. Each game brings something to the table and I love them both. There, I'm done. Next week should be fun vs Vick and Co. So far, Madden seems easier for me, probaly because I'm more familiar with it. Stay tuned!!!


Todd

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by CraigSca

Ok, first question. How the HECK did you get that cool HTML code?

I have two memberships at www.dynastymanager.com - from there I copy the html and transfer it here. Rather than do my dynasty there, I put the code here... because I love you guys!

For $6, I'll take the cool tables this site puts out.



Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

Hmmm... I thought about joining that site. How hard it is to copy the html from there and put it here?

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by Emmett13

woah what happened... I was messing around and hit post instead of preview on accident.

Weird. Can you delete that post?


Todd

[Emmett13]

Nope, I can see the quote button, but not the edit button.

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by Emmett13

Nope, I can see the quote button, but not the edit button.

I pm'ed SD, hopefully he can delete that post!


Todd

[Emmett13]

Sure hope so... sorry about that

[MizzouRah]

Madden: St. Louis (0-1) at Atlanta (0-1)
San Francisco beat Atlanta 10-7

ESPN: St. Louis (0-1) at Atlanta (1-0)
Atlanta beat San Francisco 10-7


Isn't ironic about the Atlanta game?

My take: No matter what your stand in the ESPN vs Madden saga is, both games are fun to play. This sounds like a broken record, but if Madden had ESPN's presentation and ESPN had Madden's franchise mode, we'd be in football bliss... but as your know, that will never happen and I think we'll always have a battle for supremency. Each game brings something to the table and I love them both. There, I'm done. Next week should be fun vs Vick and Co. So far, Madden seems easier for me, probaly because I'm more familiar with it. Stay tuned!!!


Todd

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by Emmett13

Sure hope so... sorry about that

No problem....


Todd

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by Eaglesfan27

Hmmm... I thought about joining that site. How hard it is to copy the html from there and put it here?

Not hard at all. All you have to do is change the team pics from yahoo.com (team section)

I'll help you if you need it.


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

Originally Posted by MizzouRah

Not hard at all. All you have to do is change the team pics from yahoo.com (team section)

I'll help you if you need it.


Todd

If I get motivated to continue my ESPN dynasty and/or start a Madden dynasty, I'll take you up on that offer

[CraigSca]

Ok, Todd - that site rocks! I just made one for my NCAA 2005 dynasty and probably will make one for my TCY dynasty as well. Thanks for sharing this with us!

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by CraigSca

Ok, Todd - that site rocks! I just made one for my NCAA 2005 dynasty and probably will make one for my TCY dynasty as well. Thanks for sharing this with us!

Excellent! I'm going to check out your NCAA dynasty... I love that site as well.


Todd

[CraigSca]

It was kind of spur of the moment, so I don't have detailed info on the first two games or anything. I'm thinking of actually buying another page for my TCY dynasty. Probably a lot easier to do, since I'll only have to copy and paste (instead of copying down statistics from the TV and entering them up here). We'll see - really makes me want to play that West Virginia game tonight.

[MizzouRah]

TCY would be much easier.


I'm bumping ESPN to 9 min games as I only had around 97 total plays (with sacks). Madden seems fine with 12 accelerated right now.


Todd

[CraigSca]

Ok, Todd - this dynastymanager stuff is WAY too much fun. I've completely overdone my webpage .

[MizzouRah]

Madden: Game 2 at Atlanta (0-1)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F St. Louis 0 0 13 0 13 Atlanta 0 6 0 17 23

Visitor GAME STATS Home 298 Total Yds 250 14 First Downs 14 22 Rushing Yds 46 16-0 Rushes-Fumb 34-4 1 Rushing TD 1 276 Passing Yds 204 24-53-1 Comp-Att-TD 15-32-0 2 Interceptions 0 2/15 3rd Down Conv. 6/17 20:55 Time of Pos. 27:05

After a missed extra point by Wilkins, the Rams were up 13-6 with a little over 9 mins left in the 4th quarter. Atlanta marched down the field and tied the game 13-13 with an 11 yard run by T.J. Duckett. Disaster struck on the Rams next drive as Marc Bulger threw a pass that was picked off by first round draft pick DeAngelo Hall and he took it to the house, 22 yards for the TD and sealed the Rams second loss of the season.

The Rams dominated Michael Vick and the Atlanta offense all game, but Vick came through when it mattered. Warrick Dunn was injured early in the 4th quarter and Duckett was up to the task, battering his way through the Rams tired front line. "It was smashmouth football, but we kept our focus", said an exhausted Michael Vick who was sacked 3 times and held to (-8) yards on 11 rushes by the Rams defense.

POG: Falcons CB DeAngelo Hall - 8 tackles, 1 int, 1 td



Other Notable Stats:
T. Holt - 5 catches, 115 yards, 1 td
D. Looker - 4 catches, 68 yards
A. Williams - 7 tackles
T. Polley - 6 tackles, 1 sack

D. Hall - 8 tackles, 1 int, 1 td
P. Kerney - 4 tackles, 2 sacks
J. Freely - 3/4 fg, 43 long, 2-2 xp

Injuries of note:
W. Dunn - torn pectoral (out for 8 weeks)
M. Vick - bruised shoulder (probable)

My Take: I played well on defense this game, but I couldn't get Faulk going against the Atlanta defense. I had the game in my hands and I made stupid calls. I NEED a win next week at home vs the Saints. Wish me luck!

Todd

Next up: at home vs the Saints (1-1)

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by CraigSca

Ok, Todd - this dynastymanager stuff is WAY too much fun. I've completely overdone my webpage .

Yes it is, but time consuming.

* I'm switching my time down to 11 mins accelerated clock in Madden. I've played two games with totals around 138 plays, which is a tad high. *


Todd

[MizzouRah]

ESPN: Game 2 at Atlanta (1-0)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F St. Louis 0 0 0 0 0 Atlanta 3 3 3 17 26

Visitor GAME STATS Home 246 Total Yds 322 15 First Downs 17 44 Rushing Yds 134 22-1 Rushes-Fumb 25-0 0 Rushing TD 1 202 Passing Yds 188 22-34-0 Comp-Att-TD 14-34-0 4 Interceptions 0 5/9 3rd Down Conv. 7/8 19:06 Time of Pos. 16:54

At halftime is was 6-0 in favor of the Falcons, buy the end of the game the Rams were scratching their heads as they get shutout 26-0 and fall to (0-2) on the season. The Falcons defense had a "bend but don't break" attitude and although the Rams could move the ball, they couldn't score. Rams QB Marc Bulger threw 4 int's, which had the Rams coaching staff scratching their heads, bewildered.

Falcons RB Warrick Dunn was spectacular, rushing 21 times for 117 yards and a touchdown. The play of the game came in the 4th quarter when Dunn took the handoff to the outside, avoided 2 tackles and ran up the sideline for a 40 yard TD. Coach Mike Martz shook his head in disgust as the Rams are off to a horrid start. "I'm at a loss", said a worn out Martz, who was clearly searching for words to tell the media at the press conference. Falcons head coach, Jim Morra, Jr. has lead the Falcons to a (2-0) record on the young 2004 season. "This team has really come together as a unit, and our defense works very hard on the field", said Morra after the game.

It doesn't get any easier for the Rams next week at home vs the (1-1) New Orleans Saints who beat San Francisco, 48-24. "I don't know where we go from here, said GM Todd Volmert.

POG: Falcons RB Warrick Dunn - 21-117, 1 td


Other Notable Stats:
M. Faulk - 11 catches, 74 yards
D. Looker - 5 catches, 66 yards
P. Tinoisamoa - 8 tackles, 3 assists

W. Dunn - 21 rushes, 117 yards, 5.6 avg, 1 td
P. Price - 4 catches, 62 yards
J. Webster - 6 tackles, 1 sack
D. Hall - 6 tackles, 4 assists
A. Beasley - 2 int's, 3 tackles, 1 td (66 yard return)
B. Smith - 2 tackles, 1 int
D. Ross - 1 tackle, 1 int
J. Freely - 4/6 fg, 48 long

Injuries of note:
OLB T. Polley - dislocated elbow (out 8 weeks)
SS A. Archuleta - twisted knee (out 4 weeks)

OLB C. Draft - migraines (probable, 6 weeks recovery)

My take: Well, 4 games total and ZERO wins to show for it. I could pass the ball well, but my drives would always stall. Of course 4 int's didn't help either. I'm going to hit free agency and fill some holes for next week. Will I get a victory this season?

Todd

Next Week: at home vs Saints (1-1)

[MizzouRah]

ESPN: New Orleans (1-1) at St. Louis (0-2)
New Orleans beat San Francisco 48-24

Madden: New Orleans (1-1) at St. Louis (0-2)
San Francisco beat New Orleans 23-21


My take: Two different football games, 4 losses. Maybe I'm getting too old to be a thumb jockey, but it's really been fun playing both games. I think I'm getting better at both of them, but the scores surely don't show it. Two features I really love about Madden, in-game saves, and very well done boxscores. It's much easier typing up game summeries after a Madden game vs an ESPN game. ESPN? well, the sportscenter recaps really let me know what's going on in the league as opposed to the Madden radio show. Edgerrin James popped off a 98 yard rushing touchdown and it was neat to watch the replay along with Chris Berman saying, "He could....go....all...the....way!" It adds so much to the whole franchise package.

Until next time....

Todd

P.S. I was shocked when the instructor told us today around 2pm that the class is done and we could go home. I'm packing up right after I type this and heading back to St. Louis - well, Troy to be exact. I'm thinking I'll be home around 9:00-9:30pm cst tonight. Hopefully I can get the ESPN Saints game in tonight, this time on a 27" TV instead of a 15 year old 19" hotel TV that's so dim, it's hard to see sometimes. That's my excuse at least.

[MizzouRah]

ESPN: Week 3 (0-2) vs New Orleans (1-1)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F New Orleans 0 17 7 0 24 St. Louis 7 7 14 7 35

Visitor GAME STATS Home 433 Total Yds 388 16 First Downs 18 155 Rushing Yds 196 22-1 Rushes-Fumb 37-1 2 Rushing TD 1 278 Passing Yds 192 17-31-1 Comp-Att-TD 11-21-3 3 Interceptions 1 6/12 3rd Down Conv. 7/13 14:59 Time of Pos. 21:01

The headlines read: "Rams Win! Rams Win! The Rams defense was decimated with injuries on Sunday, with Polley, Archuleta, and Aeneas Williams (in and out all game with the flu) out of the lineup on Sunday, Rams Defensive Coordinator Larry Marmie wasn't too excited going up against a very good Saints offense, but it was the Rams offense that finally showed why they are one of the best in the league.

QB Marc Bulger threw for 192 yards, 3 td's, and only 1 int. His QB rating was 103.6, definitly his best game so far this season. Marshall, Marshall, Marshall, was at his best, gaining 183 all purpose yards and scoring 3 td's. "That's what I expect from this offense.", said Coach Mike Martz after the game. Martz was not all smiles though, late in the 4th quarter Bulger was hit by Saints DE Charles Grant and got up holding his right arm. After examining Bulger after the game, team doctors had bad news. Bulger will be out for 5 weeks with a torn bicep. Backup QB Chris Chandler will get the football next week at San Francisco. "I've already learned alot from Bulger about this Rams offense and I'm excited to get to prove to this team why I'm here.", said Chandler.

* The Rams signed FA QB Kurt Kittner to backup Chandler for the next 5 weeks as 6th round draft pick Jeff Smoker isn't quite ready for the #2 slot behind Chandler. Kittner played college for Illinios and has seen limited play in the NFL. He's been rated at 64 ovr by the Rams scouting staff and Martz likes his ability if something should happen to a fragile Chandler.

Saints RB Deuce McAllister had a great game as well, rushing for 119 yards on only 15 carries for a 7.9 average. He broke a 45 yard TD run in the 2nd quarter to give the Saints a 17-7 lead, but QB Aaron Brooks threw 3 int's in the game, which kept his team from putting the Rams away early on.

The play of the game: With the Rams down 24-21 in the 3rd quarter, MLB Robert Thomas broke through the line, hit QB Aaron Brooks who fumbled the ball, and DE Leonard Little picked up the ball and scampered 59 yards for the TD and gave the Rams the lead for good.

POG: RB Marshall Faulk - 19 rushes, 125 yards, 1 td
2 catches, 58 yards, 2 td's

Other Noteable Stats:
J. Goodspeed - 9 rushes, 39 yards
S. Jackson - 8 rushes, 34 yards
T. Holt - 3 catches, 41 yards, 1 td
I. Bruce - 2 catches, 48 yards
P. Tinosamoa - 7 tackles, 2 assists
J. Butler - 6 tackles, 1 int
S. Walton - 5 tackles, 2 assists, 1 int

J. Horn - 8 catches, 92 yards
D. Stallworth - 5 catches, 96 yards
J. Pathon - 3 catches, 90 yards, 1 td (53 yard td)
T. Jones - 8 tackles, 2 assists, 1 int
S. Hodge - 7 tackles, 2 assists
D. Rodgers - 6 tackles, 2 assists
J. Bellamy - 6 tackles
C. Grant - 2 tackles, 2 sacks

Injuries of note:
QB Marc Bulger - torn bicep (out for 5 weeks)

My take: We finally get the monkey off of our back and it feels good. I watched that fumble recovery for a TD replay over and over, in fact I always control the MLB in both games and it was great knowing I caused that fumble. Backup FS Shane Walton played a great game in place of Aeneas Williams and I hope that's a glimpse of what he can do for us as Williams won't be around too much longer. Although we're playing the 49ers who are 0-3, I'm a little worried about how Chandler will do - I guess I should keep the ground game going next week.

Todd

Next Week: at San Francisco (0-3)

[Eaglesfan27]

Great read so far! Keep up the good work

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by Eaglesfan27

Great read so far! Keep up the good work

Thanks.

I wish you would continue your dynasty or start a new one with Madden.

Your ESPN writeups were great to read!


Todd

[Eaglesfan27]

Thanks for the compliment. I'm still planning on continuing the one with ESPN. I've just hit a lull thanks to wanting to watch the olympics and CM 03/04 drawing me back in (yet again.)

Also, I've started my franchise in Madden (Coach Only), but am trying to think of a decent storyline/angle to take with it. I have been saving key stats and storylines in a text file for once I come up with an angle to write it from) Anyway, I don't mean to intrude on your dynasty. Keep up the great work

[illinifan999]

Good decision to bring in Kurt Kittner. Now start him.

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by Eaglesfan27

Thanks for the compliment. I'm still planning on continuing the one with ESPN. I've just hit a lull thanks to wanting to watch the olympics and CM 03/04 drawing me back in (yet again.)

Also, I've started my franchise in Madden (Coach Only), but am trying to think of a decent storyline/angle to take with it. I have been saving key stats and storylines in a text file for once I come up with an angle to write it from) Anyway, I don't mean to intrude on your dynasty. Keep up the great work

No intruding, at least I know when someone is reading. I know what you mean, I've been wanting to get back into my ootp dynasty, but I love playing both of these football games.

Originally Posted by illinifan999

Good decision to bring in Kurt Kittner. Now start him.

You never know with Chandler at the helm.


Todd

[MizzouRah]

Madden: Week 3 (0-2) at New Orleans (1-1)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F New Orleans 0 14 7 3 24 St. Louis 7 0 0 10 17

Visitor GAME STATS Home 296 Total Yds 266 14 First Downs 16 103 Rushing Yds 14 28-0 Rushes-Fumb 14-1 2 Rushing TD 1 193 Passing Yds 252 17-29-1 Comp-Att-TD 22-50-1 2 Interceptions 0 5/13 3rd Down Conv. 4/16 23:02 Time of Pos. 20:58

So close, yet so far away. That about sums up this game vs the Saints. Saints WR Donte Stallworth caught a pass from Aaron Brooks and scampered 41 yards into the endzone for a TD that broke the tie and put the Saints up 14-7 with 1 second left in the half. That play would drive the Saints into the second half as they built up a 24-7 lead late in the game and the Rams ran out of options... and time.

Marc Bulger threw for over 300 yards and a TD, but all was for nothing as the Rams now drop to (0-3). Coach Mike Martz had a closed team meeting immediately after the game and could not be reached for comment. A press conference is schelduled for later today.

The "Deuce" was loose, carrying the ball 24 times for 96 yards and 2 td's. Marshall Faulk couldn't run anywhere as the Saints defense swarmed him all day. Faulk had just 18 yards on 10 carries and no touchdowns. Saints Head Coach, Jim Haslett was pleased with how his team performed, especially in St. Louis's backyard. "We kept Marshall in check and that was big for our defense." The Saints improved to 2-1 and will play at Arizona next week.

POG: RB Deuce McAllister - 24 carries, 96 yards, 2 td's

Other Noteable Stats:
K. Curtis - 5 catches, 93 yards
T. Holt - 5 catches, 89 yards
D. Looker - 5 catches, 57 yards
A. Archuleta - 7 tackles
T. Polley - 6 tackles
R. Pickett - 5 tackles, 2 sacks
T. Fisher - 5 tackles

A. Brooks - 17-29, 212 yards, 1 td, 2 int
E. Conwell - 6 catches, 78 yards,
J. Horn - 5 catches, 35 yards
D. Stallworth - 3 catches, 75 yards, 1 td
T. Jones - 5 tackles
D. Howard - 4 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble
C. Grant - 3 tackles, 2 sacks

Injuries of note:
TE Boo Williams - broken collarbone (out for season)

* DE Bryce Fisher has been named the starter for next weeks game vs San Francisco. He will replace DE Tyoka Jackson who's been in Martz's dog house.

My take: I still haven't figured out how to win a game in Madden, pretty pathetic. Actually, I'm passing well, but I need to run the ball better. It should be an interesting game vs the Niners next week. If I lose that one maybe the owner will put me out of my misery.

Todd

Next Week: at San Francisco (1-2)

[MizzouRah]

Madden: St. Louis (0-3) at San Francisco (1-2)
San Francisco lost to Seattle 20-3

Key Injuries:
STL: None
SF: CB Jimmy Williams - broken collarbone (out for season)
HB Jamal Robertson - strained back (out for 7 weeks)


ESPN: St. Louis (1-2) at San Francisco (0-3)
San Francisco lost to Seattle 17-13

Key Injuries:
STL: LB Tommy Polley - dislocated elbow (out for 7 weeks)
QB Marc Bulger - torn bicep (out for 5 weeks)
SS Adam Archuleta - twisted knee (out for 3 weeks)

SF: FS Ronnie Heard - migranes (out for 4 weeks)


My take: Everything seems just about perfect as far as settings go for both of these games. I'm still having alot of fun on default All-Pro. I'll hopefully get a few more games in before work starts back next week, then the pace will slow down some, although I can probably play at least a game most nights. I need a winning streak!

Todd

[MizzouRah]

Madden Standings
NFC West		W	L	T	DIV		Streak
	Seattle	2	1	0	1-0		W1
	Arizona	1	2	0	1-0		L2
	San Francisco	1	2	0	0-1		L2
	St. Louis	0	3	0	0-1		L3

ESPN Standings
NFC West		W	L	T	DIV		Streak
	Seattle	3	0	0	1-0		W3
	Arizona	1	2	0	1-0		L2
	St. Louis	1	2	0	0-1		W1
	San Francisco	0	3	0	0-1		L3

[CraigSca]

Oh my, there you go again with your HTML code. Very, very nice

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by CraigSca

Oh my, there you go again with your HTML code. Very, very nice

I sent you a PM or two.


Todd

[MizzouRah]

Madden: Game 4 (0-3) at San Francisco (1-2)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F St. Louis 0 10 3 10 23 San Francisco 7 7 0 13 27

Visitor GAME STATS Home 245 Total Yds 340 12 First Downs 18 23 Rushing Yds 151 15-1 Rushes-Fumb 35-1 1 Rushing TD 0 222 Passing Yds 189 16-42-1 Comp-Att-TD 16-29-3 2 Interceptions 0 5/14 3rd Down Conv. 6/13 18:04 Time of Pos. 25:56

The NFL is all about making plays, and when DE Bryce Fisher recovered a fumble late in the 4th quarter, head Coach Mike Martz screamed, "Hell ya!, it's about time!!" After running 3 consecutive running plays and kicking a FG, the Rams were up 23-17 with 1:29 to go in the game. Little did Mike Martz or the Rams defense know that San Francisco QB Tim Rattay would put a 6 play, 67 yard drive together that would end with a 24 yard TD to Clemson rookie WR Derrick Hamilton.

"Can you f*n believe this?", said a red hot Mike Martz after the game. The Rams are now 0-4. Yes you read that right, 0-4. Jeff Garcia who? Tim Rattay had a spectacular game, 16-29, 203 yards, and 3 td's. RB Kevan Barlow carried the ball 30 times for 148 yards for a 4.9 average.

"This year's Rams team just doesn't have the leadership of years past", said Bernie Miklasz - Rams beat writer. Next week former Rams DE Grant Wistrom is ready to smack the Rams in the mouth once again as they travel to Seattle to take on the (2-1) Seahawks. "We need to stomp on them while their down", said Wistrom "but don't count on them laying down, they'll come here hungry and mad", added Wistrom. The Rams just might find themselves out of the playoffs before mid-season.

POG: QB Tim Rattay - 16-29, 203 yards, 55.2%, 3 td, 0 int

Other Noteable Stats:
D. Looker - 6 catches, 93 yards, 1 td
M. Faulk - 3 catches, 44 yards
I. Bruce - 2 catches, 49 yards
J. Wilkins - 3-4 fg, 41 long, 2-2 xp
A. Williams - 10 tackles
T. Polley - 8 tackles
B. Fisher - 6 tackles, 1 sack, 1 fumble recovery
J. Butler - 6 tackles
D. Groce - 3 tackles, 1 sack, 2 forced fumbles

K. Barlow - 30 carries, 148 yards, 4.9 avg
E. Johnson - 5 catches, 65 yards
B. Lloyd - 2 catches, 43 yards
D. Hamilton - 2 catches, 43 yards, 2 td's
J. Winborn - 6 tackles, 1 forced fumble
J. Ulbrich - 5 tackles
R. Heard - 2 tackles, 2 int's

Injuries of note:
None

* DT Demione Lewis gets benched and DT Jimmy Kennedy will start against Seattle next week.
* DE Bryce Fisher had a spectacular week in his first start of the season. He was instrumental in putting the Rams in position to win the game with his fumble recovery late in the 4th quarter. Add 6 tackles and 1 sack and he's already proven he deserves to start over Tyoka Jackson.

My take: Comback code! Comback code! ....just kidding. This game was mine and I'm still wondering where All-Pro FS Aeneas Williams on that catch by Derrick Hamilton of the 49ers. I was in a dime package, zone coverage and Hamilton was single covered in the end zone by the CB. It was a deep pass, where was the coeverage? You should have heard me screaming at the TV. Good thing my family is gone tonight. In my younger days, I would have ripped the power cord out of the wall, but you know, this gives me something to work at and I'm glad the challenge is there with both of these games. I know most 'ballers' can kill the computer on All-Pro defaults, but going between the two games has me hitting buttons that do something for the other game sometimes. Not that I'm using that as an excuse, but it's a factor.

Madden has really improved this year and I love it just for the gameplay in itself. ESPN's gameplay is fun, but it's the presentation that has me coming back for more. Well, I won my last ESPN game, let's see if that will continue.

Todd

[illinifan999]

Start Kittner, and you'll win.

[Blade6119]

draft brad smith, then you will win....Mizzou is soo much better then that crappy illinois team

[MizzouRah]

[MizzouRah]

ESPN: Game 4 (1-2) at San Francisco (0-3)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F St. Louis 7 7 7 14 35 San Francisco 0 14 7 7 28

Visitor GAME STATS Home 435 Total Yds 351 25 First Downs 12 163 Rushing Yds 94 41-0 Rushes-Fumb 20-0 4 Rushing TD 0 272 Passing Yds 257 15-24-1 Comp-Att-TD 18-32-4 0 Interceptions 1 9/15 3rd Down Conv. 9/13 23:10 Time of Pos. 12:50

If you like offense, you would have loved this game. Both teams offensive units couldn't be stopped, at least not for very long. San Francisco tore it up through the air, the Rams on the ground. Both teams combined for 786 total yards of offense, but the Rams made the final TD that mattered as they reach .500 with their second victory of the year.

QB Tim Rattay had a QB rating of 138.4, going 15-24 for 257 yards and 4 td's. RB Marshall Faulk however, showed why he is so versatile, rushing for 138 yards on 33 carries and scoring 3 td's. He also caught 5 passes for 68 yards and 1 td. "He still has it", said QB Chris Chandler after the game. Faulk added, "I felt good, but you always feel good in a game vs rival San Francisco." Coach Mike Martz was pleased with Faulk's day, but he was also proud of backup QB Chris Chandler who played very well in place of starter Marc Bulger. "We knew he could pass the ball, but I was surprised at how confident he was in the pocket." "He's grasped our offense much better than we had anticipated, and that's a huge plus for this team." Chandler downplayed the coach's compliments, "When you have a great offensive line, great recievers, and someone as great as Faulk out there with you, it's much easier to run the offense." The Rams improve to (2-2) overall and (1-1) within the division. They take on the #1 Power ranking team, the Seattle Seahawks next week who are undefeated at (3-0) next week in Seattle.

The play of the game: With the score tied 28-28 and 5:32 left in the 4th quarter, Qb Chris Chandler marched the Rams 78 yards. With only :31 seconds on the clock, Rams FB Joey Goodspeed ran up the gut for a 3 yd td, which sealed the victory for the Rams.

POG: RB Marshall Faulk - 33-138 rushing, 5-68 recieveing, 206 total yards, 4 td's

Other Noteable Stats:
J. Goodspeed - 8 carries, 25 yards, 1 td
T. Holt - 6 catches, 94 yards
I. Bruce - 2 catches, 38 yards
D. Looker - 4 catches, 67 yards
R. Coady - 5 tackles, 2 assists, 1 sack
S. Landeta - 5 punts, 221 yards, 44.2 average

K. Barlow - 19 carries, 90 yards. 4.7 average
R. Woods - 5 catches, 101 yards, 2 td's
B. Lloyd - 5 catches, 120 yards, 2 td, long of 63 yards
K. Lewis - 5 tackles, 5 assists
S. Spencer - 3 tackles, 3 assists
A. Adams - 3 tackles, 1 sack

Injuries of note:
None


My take: I was a little scared after losing in the last few minutes to San Francisco in Madden, but Faulk was running the ball well and Chandler made passes when needed. A big win for us as we reach .500 and going to Seattle has me alot less worried with Chandler at the helm as well as Coady playing for Archuleta. It's also nice Seattle's RB Shaun Alexander is out next week as well.

Todd

[MizzouRah]

ESPN: St. Louis (2-2) at Seattle (3-0)
Seattle bye week last week

Key Injuries:
STL: OLB Tommey Polley - dislocated elbow (out for 6 weeks)
QB Marc Bulger - torn bicep (out for 4 weeks)
SS Adam Archuleta - twisted knee (out for 2 weeks)

SEA: RB Shaun Alexander - broken foot (out for 5 weeks)
SS Damien Robinson - sore neck (out for 3 weeks)


Madden: St. Louis (0-4) at Seattle (2-1)
Seattle bye week last week

Key Injuries:
STL: None

SEA: CB Bobby Taylor - strained knee (out for 5 weeks)
RT Chris Terry - strained back (out for 3 weeks)
LT Walter Jones - torn tricep (probable)


My take: I seem to be getting into a groove with ESPN, but I need to win a game in Madden. Even though Seattle is a favorite to win the division this year, I'm hoping to win both of these games. In ESPN, Alexander is out, which means pass coverage from my defense. In Madden, I have no injuries and Seattle is banged up - maybe I can steal a win there. If I could just get a running game going in Madden.

* The Wistrom factor? Grant should be pumped up playing us this week and our QB's know they need to be aware of his work ethic in the NFL. He'll have that exrtra "umph" against us I'm sure.

Todd

[MizzouRah]

ESPN Standings
NFC West		W	L	T	DIV		Streak
	Seattle	3	0	0
	St. Louis	2	2	0
	Arizona	1	3	0
	San Francisco	0	4	0

Madden Standings
NFC West		W	L	T	DIV		Streak
	Seattle	2	1	0	1-0		W1
	San Francisco	2	2	0	1-1		W1
	Arizona	1	3	0	1-0		L3
	St. Louis	0	4	0	0-2		L4

[MizzouRah]

ESPN: Game 5 (2-2) at Seattle (3-0)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F St. Louis 3 14 7 8 32 Seattle 14 14 7 5 40

Visitor GAME STATS Home 331 Total Yds 406 20 First Downs 9 106 Rushing Yds 178 31 Rushes-Fumb 22 2 Rushing TD 2 225 Passing Yds 228 16-28-2 Comp-Att-TD 14-24-3 0 Interceptions 0 11/18 3rd Down Conv. 5/11 20:56 Time of Pos. 15:04

RB Maurice Morris knew he was filling some big shoes today as replacing Shaun Alexander was no easy task, he did know however, the Rams defense was one of the worst against the run and he took the opportunity to showcase his talent. Morris ran for 180 yards on just 18 carries and scored 2 td's. His biggest run came with 8:29 left in the 2nd quarter as he ran to the right side for a 67 yard td, which put the Seahawks up 21-3. The Rams strugged once again on offense and Matt Hasselbeck had another great performance, going 14-24, for 228 yards, 2 td's, and a QB rating of 129.9. Although Seattle's defense did fare well either, they didn't need to as the offense was stellar.

QB Chris Chandler had another good start as he was, 16-28, 2 td's, and 0 int's. Faulk ran well, gaining 99 yards on 26 carries. Unfortunetly, that wasn't enough as Seattle had an excellent gameplan. The Rams injuries were too unsurmountable on defense.

"This defense needs some major disipline and I'll be with them at practice this week", commented Coach Martz. "You can be sure we will correct this or their be some players cleaning out their lockers."

Seattle improves to 4-0 as they head to New England to take on the Super Bowl champions.

**Seattle's defense had 8 sacks, including 4 by DE Chike Okeafor**

The Play of the Game: The Seahaws had a slim 4 point lead late in the 3rd quarter, when RB Maurice Morris ran his second 60+ yard run for a score to put the game out of reach for the Rams, 35-24.

POG:Chike Okeafor - 5 tackles, 1 assist, 4 sacks

Other Noteable Stats:
M. Faulk - 4 catches, 67 yards
T. Holt - 7 catches, 112 yards, 1 td
I. Bruce - 2 catches, 16 yards, 1 td
R. Coady - 7 tackles, 2 assists
R. Thomas - 6 tackles, 2 assists
A. Williams - 4 tackles, 2 assists
T. Faulk - 3 tackles, 1 assist, 1 sack

K. Robinson - 7 catches, 156 yards, 1 td, long of 80 yards
D. Jackson - 4 catches, 47 yards, 1 td
K. Hamlin - 7 tackles, 2 assists
B. Taylor - 5 tackles, 2 assists
M. Turfant - 5 tackles, 2 assists
C. Okeafor - 5 tackles, 1 assist, 4 sacks
M. Tubbs - 3 tackles, 1 assist, 1.5 sacks
G. Wistrom - 2 tackles, 0.5 sacks

Injuries of note:
HB Kerry Carter - torn achilles (out for 8 weeks)


My take: I prepare for the passing game, and they run all over me. I can't keep from giving up big plays and that's just what happened to my defense once again. The computer really takes advantage of mistakes. I need to get my defense at least playing alot better if I plan to keep up in this division and in the rest of the NFL.

Todd


Offensive Stats:
Passing - 1127 yards (9th in the NFL) (Colts 1st)
Rushing - 623 yards (9th in the NFL) (Dolphins 1st)
Total - 1750 (7th in the NFL) (Saints 1st)

Defensive Stats:
Passing allowed - 1303 (31st in the NFL) (Philadelphia 1st)
Rushing allowed - 610 yards (26th in the NFL) (Baltimore 1st)
Total allowed - 1913 (31st in the NFL) (Philadelphia 1st)

Next Week: at home vs Tampa Bay (2-3)

[MizzouRah]

Madden: Game 5 (0-4) at Seattle (2-1)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F St. Louis 0 3 6 9 18 Seattle 6 7 7 7 27

Visitor GAME STATS Home 333 Total Yds 302 14 First Downs 18 26 Rushing Yds 78 8-0 Rushes-Fumb 35-0 0 Rushing TD 1 307 Passing Yds 224 20-45-2 Comp-Att-TD 21-28-2 1 Interceptions 0 5/14 3rd Down Conv. 8/14 15:12 Time of Pos. 28:48

There are only two winless teams this season, the Jets are one of them, can you name the other team? Tick tock, tick tock... Yes! it's the Rams.

On the third play of the game, QB Matt Hasselbeck was sacked by DT Ryan Pickett who's hit caused a fumble. DE Bryce Fisher picked up the loose ball and ran for a 65 yard td. Touchdown Rams!! .......not so fast Superman. Head Coach Mike Holmgren threw his challenge flag into the air and the play went under review. After looking at the replay, the call on the field was overturned and so were the chances of the Rams winning their first game.

Today the Rams defense unveiled a new "bend AND break" defense as they couldn't stop Seattle QB Matt Hasselbeck all day. Matt was "Montana-esqe" at times today, completing 21 of 28 passes for 235 yards and 2 td's. "Our wideouts were really running perfect routes today", said Hasselbeck after the game. "This is how good this team is and can be", said a jubilent Mike Holmgren.

"When you mix a good running game with a great passing attack, you see the results", said Martz (referring to the Seahawks gameplan execution) at a press conference after the game. "I knew in preseason this team wasn't the same team as in years past, but I figured we would get stronger as the year played on....hmmmm... I guess I was wrong." (Martz)

GM Todd Volmert avoided the press after the game, locking the door in his office and taking his phone off the hook. "Is this combo of Martz and Volmert what this team NEEDED?" said Bernie Miklasz, beat writer for the Rams.

There were a few bright spots for the Rams, however. Bulger continued his good play, completing 20 of 45 passes for 322 yards and 2 td's, 1 int. WR Dane Looker caught a 70 yd td from Bulger late in the 3rd quarter. He leads the team in recieving with 23 receptions, 362 yards, and 2 td's.

The play of the game: Leading 13-3, the Seahawks put together a 13 play, 70 yard drive after stopping the Rams to start the 2nd half. The drive was capped off when Matt Hasselbeck hit RB Maurice Morris for a 10 yard TD and a 20-3 lead.

POG: QB Matt Hasselbeck - 21-28, 235 yards, 75% comp, 2 td's, 0 int's

Other Noteable Stats:
D. Looker - 5 catches, 118 yards, 1 td
I. Bruce - 4 catches, 88 yards
M. Faulk - 4 catches, 39 yards, 1 td
T. Holt - 2 catches, 34 yards
T. Polley - 9 tackles, 1 sack
R. Thomas - 7 tackles
P. Tinoisamoa - 6 tackles
L. Little - 5 tackles, 1 sack
J. Butler - 5 tackles
A. Archuleta - 5 tackles
R. Pickett - 4 tackes, 1 sack

S. Alexander - 34 carries, 79 yards, 1 td
D. Jackson - 5 catches, 63 yards
B. Engram - 4 catches, 59 yards
J. Stevens - 4 catches, 37 yards
K. Robinson - 2 catches, 23 yards, 1 td
A. Simmons - 5 tackles, 1 sack
M. Trufant - 5 tackles
M. Jones - 3 tackles, 1 int
C. Okeafor - 2 tackles, 1 sack

Injuries of note:
None

My take: As I head into Week 6, I'd have to admit, I'm a little timid playing Madden. Yes, losing a 6th game in a row would really cause me to wonder, "Will I ever win a game in Madden?" I know most people are laughing at me right now because they are killing the CPU on All-Pro, but I'll have to say, Madden has my card. Maybe my defense can do something against Tampa Bay's offense? On second thought.............

Todd


Offensive Stats:
Passing - 1218 yards (2nd in the NFL) (Arizona 1st)
Rushing - 135 yards (32nd in the NFL) (New York N 1st)
Total - 1860 (18th in the NFL) (Green Bay 1st)

Defensive Stats:
Passing allowed - 1117 (31st in the NFL) (Tennesse 1st)
Rushing allowed - 443 yards (12th in the NFL) (Carolina 1st)
Total allowed - 1560 (28st in the NFL) (Minnesota 1st)

Next Week: at home vs Tampa Bay (2-3)

[MizzouRah]

Madden: Tampa Bay (2-3) at St. Louis (0-5)
Tampa Bay lost at New Orleans 27-6

Key Injuries:
STL: None

TBY: RG Matt O'Dwyer - torn pectoral (out for season)


ESPN: Tampa Bay (2-3) at St. Louis (2-3)
Tampa Bay lost at New Orleans 20-13

Key Injuries:
STL: OLB Tommy Polley - dislocated elbow (out for 5 weeks)
QB Marc Bulger - torn bicep (our for 3 weeks)
SS Adam Archuleta - twisted knee (our for 1 week)

TBY: TE Ken Dilger - hairline arm fracture (our for 3 weeks)



My take: A big game with both football games. In Madden well, I need my first victory and who better than the hated Buccaneers (minus Warren Sapp). In ESPN, a win would get me back to 500 and some respectability within the league. Oh, and I'll say this again - ESPN, we need in-game saves and the ability to see the boxscore of any game played - thanks.

Todd

[MizzouRah]

Madden Standings
NFC West		W	L	T	DIV		Streak
	Seattle	3	1	0	2-0		W2
	San Francisco	3	2	0	2-1		W2
	Arizona	1	4	0	1-1		L4
	St. Louis	0	5	0	0-3		L5

ESPN Standings
NFC West		W	L	T	DIV		Streak
	Seattle	4	0	0
	St. Louis	2	3	0
	San Francisco	1	4	0
	Arizona	1	4	0

[cincyreds]

we want more, we want more!!

[MizzouRah]

Originally Posted by cincyreds

we want more, we want more!!

Madden Tampa Bay game coming tonight!


Thanks,

Todd

[MizzouRah]

Madden: Game 6 (0-5) vs Tampa Bay (2-3)

@

TEAMS 1 2 3 4 OT F Tampa Bay 3 10 17 7 37 St. Louis 0 10 0 0 10

Visitor GAME STATS Home 266 Total Yds 188 12 First Downs 9 73 Rushing Yds 29 17-1 Rushes-Fumb 29-0 1 Rushing TD 0 193 Passing Yds 159 17-22-3 Comp-Att-TD 12-39-0 1 Interceptions 3 6/17 3rd Down Conv. 3/10 26:01 Time of Pos. 17:59

Skydog always preaches defense and that's what Tampa Bay has built their team around. Well, they showed why their defense is so good today. Holding the Rams to 188 total yards today, the defense was everywhere. "It's like they knew exactly where we were going", said Mike Martz. "We were dumbfounded today.", said RB Marshall Faulk.

The Rams pulled within 3 points of the Buccaneers on Monday night after a punt return for the Bucs turned into a fumble recovery touchdown by CB DeJuan Groce. The Rams were down 10-7 and at halftime were down 13-10. The second half was all Buccos, as the defense took over and the offense came with ease. The defense held the Rams scoreless and pretty much stopped the once powerful Rams offense.

Backup QB Chris Chandler came into the game, but like Marc Bulger, Chandler couldn't figure out this Tampa Bay defense. In fact, he went out of the game with an injury in the 4th quarter and after the game Martz told the media the bad news. Chandler has a partially torn MCL and will be out for at least 5 weeks. The Rams travel to Miami next week to take on another great defense. Will the Rams be 0-7 after next week?

The Play of the Game: After intercepting the ball on the Rams 22 yard line to start the second half, the Buccaneers' WR Joey Galloway caught a 21 yard TD pass from Brad Johnson and took a 20-10 lead. The Bucs would never look back as they send the Rams to a 0-7 start to the season.

POG: QB Brad Johnson - 17-22, 203 yards, 3 td's, 1 int

Other Noteable Stats:
I. Bruce - 2 catches, 72 yards
R. Thomas - 5 tackles
T. Polley - 5 tackles
L. Little - 4 tackles, 1 sack
D. Lewis - 2 tackles, 1 sack

C. Garner - 25 carries, 81 yards, 1 td
C. Lee - 5 catches, 50 yards
J. Galloway - 4 catches, 57 yards, 1 td
B. Schroeder - 3 catches, 2 td's
M. Gramatica - 3-3 fg's, 4-4 xp's, long of 49 yards
S. Quarles - 6 tackles
J. Phillips - 6 tackes, 1 forced fumble
G. Spires - 4 tackles, 3 sacks
D. Brooks - 4 tackles
B. Kelly - 4 tackles, 1 int
D. Smith - 2 tackles, 1 int
T. Cox - 2 tackles, 1 int

Injuries of note:
QB Chris Chandler - partially torn mcl (out for weeks)

My take: I really though after coming back to make the score 13-10 at halftime, the momentum was mine. Boy was I wrong. A couple of mistakes and I lose another game. 0-7, can you believe this?
I beat a friend of mine tonight big time, but I can't beat the cpu? That's why football is so popular, I have Miami next and I'm thinking... how can I keep the game close? Ha, ha! I'm glad Madden is going back into it's cover for two games.

Todd