Alright boyz, here we go!!! NCAA 2006 First impressions

[ahbrady]

Before I start with my impressions let me say that I am not the greatest console gamer. I have played about 8 games so far with a few on varsity level and a few on all-american. I haven't messed with the sliders at all.

The dropped passes seem to be way down from last year. There are still some, but it doesn't seem to be unrealistic. I don't have specific stats from any of my games, but the only computer QB that was under 50% completion was when I played against Southwest Missouri State. My completion percentage has been under 50% a couple of times, but they were with a QB that is much better at scrambling, and much of it may be due to my lack of skill.

I read somewhere on here that there was a video of a 40 yard strike thrown by a QB while being tackled. I haven't seen anything like that. There have been a couple of long bombs that were completed, but nothing like that at all. I haven't seen anything so far that seemed too out of whack as far as big plays.

The computer running game seems much improved from any of the previous versions. The computer has rushed for several long runs against me, and I have broken away for a few as well.

I haven't done much in my dynasty, but I think I'm going to like the in-season recruiting. There is plenty of information to consider, but it isn't overwhelming in the slightest. I haven't gotten through a year yet, so I don't know anything about the offseason.

So far, I am very pleased with the game. It is miles ahead of 2006, and up to this point I like it more than any previous version. This is just after a handful of games, however, so I'm trying to be cautious in my optimism.

[jbmagic]

are running backs breaking big gains over 20 yards a lot in NCAA 2006? i hope not too much.

[CraigSca]

There oughta be a law that a guy who's really not into console games shouldn't be allowed to get an early copy of 2006. :p Just kidding - thanks for the update, ahbrady!

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

Are the DBs on Steroids?

[CraigSca]

Ahbrady - are you on XBOX or PS2?

[sabotai]

If 1) The dropped passes are down (you say they are, yeah!), 2) The Computer QB can complete50% and higher of his passes most of the time (I played games in NCAA 2005 where the QB would be 4/22 or 3/25. No joke) and 3) The Comp. teams can run the ball (Never had the Comp. team run more than 100 yards or break a 20+ yard run on me last year) and 4) The XBox slowdown is gone, then I will seriously consider getting this one.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I sure hope I don't have to evacuate from Hurricane Dennis, because I'm ready to be in line on Monday night so I can get my copy at midnight Tuesday morning! I'll also be dead at work on Tuesday because I'll have been up half the night playing. :D :D

[Eaglesfan27]

I sure hope I don't have to evacuate from Hurricane Dennis, because I'm ready to be in line on Monday night so I can get my copy at midnight Tuesday morning! I'll also be dead at work on Tuesday because I'll have been up half the night playing. :D :D
Yep, I can't believe I may have to evacuate due to work related committments :( Hopefully, we'll be back by Monday night ;)

[Comey]

Sab,

Those all appear to ring true this year for XBox.

[Eaglesfan27]

Sab,

Those all appear to ring true this year for XBox.
Yeah, if all of the early impressions can be believed, those things are all true. I hope to be able to confirm that by the end of this week after quite a few games.

[ahbrady]

There oughta be a law that a guy who's really not into console games shouldn't be allowed to get an early copy of 2006. :p Just kidding - thanks for the update, ahbrady!

I wouldn't say I'm not really into console games, I'm just not the greatest at them. I like playing console sports games.

I'm playing on Xbox. I haven't noticed a slowdown so far. From what I've seen so far, sabotai, they have fixed the issues that you mentioned from last year's game.

The DB's don't appear to be on steroids. My DB's still seem to be tipping a few too many. It also could be that I just take notice when they do tip passes, because I'm looking for it. Regardless, it is nothing like last year.

I forgot to mention one thing that seems off in my games thus far. My offensive lineman have a lot of pancake blocks. In my last game one of them had 31. This doesn't really bother me as I don't pay too much attention to my OL's stats.

jbmagic, the RB's don't seem to make too many 20+ yard runs. They will break a big one every now and then. The run blocking for the CPU seems to be vastly improved. Either that or my run defense is much worse.

[Eaglesfan27]

31 pancake blocks with one player?

[SackAttack]

31 pancake blocks with one player?

Eric Church would be proud.

[Doug5984]

Ok- I'm not sure if I want to get this for PS2 or Xbox. The past few years I have gotten it for PS2 and have then gotten the rosters pretty quickly. Is it posible to get real rosters for the Xbox version? If so- does anyone know where or how?

[Eaglesfan27]

Ok- I'm not sure if I want to get this for PS2 or Xbox. The past few years I have gotten it for PS2 and have then gotten the rosters pretty quickly. Is it posible to get real rosters for the Xbox version? If so- does anyone know where or how?Yes, you need an Action Replay for the Xbox or a similar device. Fairdalekings (I think that is his name - you can find info on operationsports or Maddenmania among other sites) has a roster that I think is already out for the xbox. You can download it from his site for free.

[jbmagic]

doesnt a lot of pancake by your Offensive line players cause there ratings to go up?

i hope the pancakes are not too crazy

[jbmagic]

Yes, you need an Action Replay for the Xbox or a similar device. Fairdalekings (I think that is his name - you can find info on operationsports or Maddenmania among other sites) has a roster that I think is already out for the xbox. You can download it from his site for free.

eaglesfan 27

i am thinking of getting the xbox instead of playstation 2

what size memory Action replay for the xbox you recommend?

do i need to get a seperate memory card too for my games i save?

thanks

[Eaglesfan27]

eaglesfan 27

i am thinking of getting the xbox instead of playstation 2

what size memory Action replay for the xbox you recommend?

do i need to get a seperate memory card too for my games i save?

thanks

It comes with a memory card (although some of them are defective, but mine wasn't.) Since the memory card that came with it worked, I never bought any other one and don't know what size to get. Of course, most of my saves are on the hard drive and I only use the card to transfer the file and then wipe it.

[CraigSca]

Ok- I'm not sure if I want to get this for PS2 or Xbox. The past few years I have gotten it for PS2 and have then gotten the rosters pretty quickly. Is it posible to get real rosters for the Xbox version? If so- does anyone know where or how?
Doug - check the other thread we have here. Someone near the end I posted a site that had XBOX rosters. AS to how to get them into your box, I'm not the guy - I don't have an XBOX.

[Emiliano]

For Xbox rosters go to Fairdale Kings' site (http://fkrosters.com/).
Basically, you download the rosters on your pc, and then you have to transfer them into a memory card through an Action Replay device. From there, you put the memory card into your Xbox pad and you copy the rosters in the hard disk.

[Emiliano]

He already has the rosters available for download!!!

NCAA 2006 Xbox Rosters (http://fkrosters.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=202)

You have to be registered on his site to download.

The guy is great, I'll donate some money to him this year.

[ice4277]

If 1) The dropped passes are down (you say they are, yeah!), 2) The Computer QB can complete50% and higher of his passes most of the time (I played games in NCAA 2005 where the QB would be 4/22 or 3/25. No joke) and 3) The Comp. teams can run the ball (Never had the Comp. team run more than 100 yards or break a 20+ yard run on me last year) and 4) The XBox slowdown is gone, then I will seriously consider getting this one.
Agreed, I have been a fairly big critic of this game the last year or two but if changes like this truly have been made, they will likely get my money again.

[Doug5984]

Thanks for the help guys! I have a sharkport- and have never had a problem getting them for the PS2 but I think I'm going to swtich to Xbox this year

[Eaglesfan27]

He already has the rosters available for download!!!

NCAA 2006 Xbox Rosters (http://fkrosters.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=202)

You have to be registered on his site to download.

The guy is great, I'll donate some money to him this year.
Excellent! I might not bother with Race for the Heisman in that case, or maybe I'll run it parallel to a regular dynasty.

I've never tried his rosters before, but I've heard nothing but good things. I'll probably donate a few bucks too.

[Celeval]

I forgot to mention one thing that seems off in my games thus far. My offensive lineman have a lot of pancake blocks. In my last game one of them had 31. This doesn't really bother me as I don't pay too much attention to my OL's stats.
Varsity or All-American? How long are the quarters?

I wouldn't be surprised at 31 pancake blocks if you have a dominant lineman at 15 minute quarters on Varsity - figure that's probably 50-60 rushing plays.

[CraigSca]

Celeval, you bring up an interesting point - and one that has really frustrated me on the other boards. When hearing of other people's impressions, they only give the overview, but never the details (it's obviously not on purpose, but annoying just the same).

For instance, the PS2 slow-down issue - some people say it's there, some people say it's the same as last year, others say it makes it unplayable. The issue is - people are playing in different camera views, different PS2s (slim version or older?), different difficulty levels, some online, some in dynasty. People need to understand that the importance is in the details and they help determine whether the info is relevant or not.

[sabotai]

Hmm. Forgot to add one more thing. If 5) The previous 4 are not replaced by 4 or 5 other big issues...

Then it'll be a great game. :)

[ahbrady]

The 31 pancake blocks were at 6 minute quarters on varsity level. All of my games so far have either been with 6 or 7 minute quarters. It doesn't give a realistic number of plays, but I don't usually have enough time to play a game with much longer quarters. I've been playing with the default camera view.

[Pumpy Tudors]

Aw, damn, I've been trying not to do it, but I think I'm going to spend half of my Saturday going to the stores I visited earlier this week. I know that I'll have the game in 62 hours no matter what, but I can't help it. Besides, I'm really bored anyway. It's either this or the casino (and video game hunting is probably cheaper).

[ahbrady]

I may have jumped the gun a little in saying there were too many pancake blocks. In my last game the most I had was 9, so maybe that game was a fluke. Although I remember having 25 by one guy in another game. I had a few more dropped passes in my last game, but I'm playing with Arkansas State in my dynasty, so that could explain a lot of that.

[jbmagic]

the more you run , the more pancakes the Offensive line players gets.

its a concern if pancakes makes the OL players progress faster in ratings.

[MizzouRah]

Damn, I want this game. No luck today. :)

Keep the impressions coming!

[jbmagic]

Todd

no kidding. this game is making me plan to get an xbox too. and then i will play Ncaa 2006 on my 50 inch big screen tv with digital surround sound.

i never had a console since i had Sega Genesis and Atari 2600. :)

[Emiliano]

Todd

no kidding. this game is making me plan to get an xbox too. and then i will play Ncaa 2005 on my 50 inch big screen tv with digital surround sound.

i never had a console since i had Sega Genesis and Atari 2600. :)

Get it jb, just get it. College football games are simply the best. I love 'em. I got an Xbox last year only to play the NCAA Football series. Well, I then bought other games, but still... I was in the same situaton as you. Plus, I think the Xbox now is really cheap. How much does it cost in the US?

[Eaglesfan27]

jbmagic, get 2006 not 2005 ;)


I swore I wasn't going to stay up until midnight to get it on Monday IF I have to work on Tuesday. As of right now, my contract isn't done and I'm off on Tuesday. However, all of the impressions are making me plan on ways to stay up until midnight and get in at least a game or two even if I have to work Tuesday. Perhaps a good nap when I get home Monday evening..

[jbmagic]

jbmagic, get 2006 not 2005 ;)


I swore I wasn't going to stay up until midnight to get it on Monday IF I have to work on Tuesday. As of right now, my contract isn't done and I'm off on Tuesday. However, all of the impressions are making me plan on ways to stay up until midnight and get in at least a game or two even if I have to work Tuesday. Perhaps a good nap when I get home Monday evening..

yep 2006. fix it above :)


just brew some coffee and get the game at midnight.

come home and play the game. drink your coffee while playing.

good luck :)

[Neuqua]

I need to stop clicking on this thread. :(

This is going to be the first year that I do not get NCAA 2006 on the first day since I have spent all my money on various road trips and adventures in the city this summer and still have yet to get a job.

I can't tell you how tempted I am to just bust out the ol' credit card though. ;)

[Ironhead]

Possible huge dynasty error. People are saying that after simming a year of their dynasty a huge number of the quarterbacks are completing over 70% of their passes and have QB ratings over 200. It seems that Matt Leinart wins the Heisman the first year and always completes 77-79% of his passes. Hopefully this is just a first year problem. :mad:

Here is a picture showing that Leinart completed 230 of 293 pictures and won the Heisman: http://sports.ign.com/articles/632/632401p5.html

[MizzouRah]

Hopefully it's just in the RFTH mode and not a normal dynasty?

[Eaglesfan27]

How many QB's are getting that high of a percentage? 70% or higher has been done by QB's before, and Leinart could conceivably go over 70% this year with all of the targets around him.


Edit: Just re-read your post. If it "huge numbers" or even more than 1 or 2 QB's that are passing over 70% each year that is disappointing :(

[Ironhead]

This is the post I saw over at OS that has me worried:

"so i simulated a dynasty last night to see how a season would progress and......what a disappointment!! the majority of quarterbacks throw for better than 70% completion and about 10 had a quarterback rating of over 200. in fact leinhart threw for 79% and 50 TD's with about a 235 rating. just terrible. none of the crappier quarterbacks threw more interceptions than tds and the yards were through the roof for all of the qbs. all of that really kills it for me...just throw any realism right of of the window EA"

[ahbrady]

I just simulated a season, and there were 37 QB's that had a completion percentage over 70. Six had a QB rating of over 200.

[Eaglesfan27]

I just simulated a season, and there were 37 QB's that had a completion percentage over 70. Six had a QB rating of over 200.
Darn :(

That isn't a game breaker, but that does hurt the realism aspect. I hope this is THE biggest problem with the game. It certainly will make winning the Heisman harder.

[mrsimperless]

If that's the biggest problem then this year's game is going to be sweet!

[rexallllsc]

This is the post I saw over at OS that has me worried:

"so i simulated a dynasty last night to see how a season would progress and......what a disappointment!! the majority of quarterbacks throw for better than 70% completion and about 10 had a quarterback rating of over 200. in fact leinhart threw for 79% and 50 TD's with about a 235 rating. just terrible. none of the crappier quarterbacks threw more interceptions than tds and the yards were through the roof for all of the qbs. all of that really kills it for me...just throw any realism right of of the window EA"

How are the reviewers missing this? How did beta miss this?

[jbmagic]

for those with the game, are you seeing a lot of KR/PR return for touchdowns?

[ahbrady]

for those with the game, are you seeing a lot of KR/PR return for touchdowns?

I had two punt returns for touchdowns and another that was close to scoring in my first game. I was worried about that, but I haven't had any since. I haven't seen a kick return for a touchdown yet.

[HomerJSimpson]

Darn :(

That isn't a game breaker, but that does hurt the realism aspect. I hope this is THE biggest problem with the game. It certainly will make winning the Heisman harder.


Game breaker for me. Glad I'll be able to for sure save the money this year.

[jbmagic]

how is the heisman play mode different than dynasty mode?

never own NCAA before.

[General Mike]

how is the heisman play mode different than dynasty mode?

never own NCAA before.

Heisman mode you just play the games,

Dynasty mode you are the coach and have to handle the recruiting and the discipline and stuff.

[MizzouRah]

PASSING GP Effic Att-Cmp-Int Pct Yds TD Lng Avg/G
--------------------------------------------------------------------
Leinart, Matt (http://www.fansonly.com/schools/usc/sports/m-footbl/mtt/leinart_matt00.html) 13 156.54 412-269-6 65.3 3322 33 69 255.5


Not TOO far off from his stats last year, really. Definitly an issue worth looking into though.

[jbmagic]

I just simulated a season, and there were 37 QB's that had a completion percentage over 70. Six had a QB rating of over 200.


wow that disappoints me.

when the last time a qb had a qb rating over 200 in college?

and how often qb completes 70% for the season in college?

[Ironhead]

I am hoping the quarterback issue is something that is a freak occurence for the first season. Someone simmed about 4 seasons about a week ago and didn't post the stats but the only year a quarterback won the Heisman was the first year. I have a hard time believing that anyone could beat a quarterback for the Heisman that had over a 200 rating.

Wouldn't it be a little ironic if EA Sports' solution to all of the cries of how horrible the CPU completion percentages were "in-game" in the 2005 version was to increase the simmed stats? I mean, that would be such a vapid move on their part that it would be downright unreal.

[Eaglesfan27]

I am hoping the quarterback issue is something that is a freak occurence for the first season. Someone simmed about 4 seasons about a week ago and didn't post the stats but the only year a quarterback won the Heisman was the first year. I have a hard time believing that anyone could be a quarterback for the Heisman that had over a 200 rating.

Wouldn't it be a little ironic if EA Sports saw all of the cries of how horrible the CPU completion percentages were "in-game" but instead increase the simmed stats? I mean, that would be such a vapid move on their part that it would be downright unreal.
That is my hope as well. I'd love to see if one of you guys who was lucky enough to get the game early could sim through a second season and see if the stats look more realistic for QB's.

[Celeval]

wow that disappoints me.
when the last time a qb had a qb rating over 200 in college?
and how often qb completes 70% for the season in college?
Rating over 200 in Division I-A? Never. Record is 183.3 (Shaun King, Tulane, 1998)

NCAA overall, there have been 11 200+ ratings, from I-AA through III. Record is Mike Simpson, Eureka (Div III) in 1994; 116-158 in 10 games, 1988 yards, 25 TDs, 5 picks for a 225.0 rating.

70% Completion:
2004 Season:
Stefan Lefors (73.54%)
Clint Marks (70.38%)
Bruce Gradkowski (70.18%)

2003 Season:
Philip Rivers (72.05%)
Bruce Gradkowski (71.21%)

The record for completion percentage was 73.6% (Daunte Culpepper, UCF, 1998).

[jbmagic]

Rating over 200 in Division I-A? Never. Record is 183.3 (Shaun King, Tulane, 1998)

NCAA overall, there have been 11 200+ ratings, from I-AA through III. Record is Mike Simpson, Eureka (Div III) in 1994; 116-158 in 10 games, 1988 yards, 25 TDs, 5 picks for a 225.0 rating.

70% Completion:
2004 Season:
Stefan Lefors (73.54%)
Clint Marks (70.38%)
Bruce Gradkowski (70.18%)

2003 Season:
Philip Rivers (72.05%)
Bruce Gradkowski (71.21%)

The record for completion percentage was 73.6% (Daunte Culpepper, UCF, 1998).


not very often.

but this happpen one sim season below. its a concern.
I just simulated a season, and there were 37 QB's that had a completion percentage over 70. Six had a QB rating of over 200.

[rexallllsc]

I got it. I'll try and have 4 seasons simmed in an hour.

[rexallllsc]

jb - check your PM's

[Eaglesfan27]

I got it. I'll try and have 4 seasons simmed in an hour.
Excellent. I look forward to you posting the results.

[MizzouRah]

One game so far.

Default AA is much harder for me than what I've been reading about other peoples impressions. I threw 5 int's with Brad Smith and since it's been quite some time since I've played NCAA football (2004), I'm a tad rusty.

The running game is so much fun now.. both for me and the CPU. The CPU will run on you and I love the fact they goto their impact player(s) as much as possible, really makes you think before the snap. Passing seems dead on right now. The game was in the snow, so dropped passes were realistic, imo.

The speed seems perfect as well and the game overall is really tightened up. Seems like they spent a lot of time fine tuning things in the gameplay department. I've already seen many new animations - mostly when running the ball - and a good back rarely goes down when one defender touches him. I like the controller layout so far.

Hmmm... 8 mins seemed about right, penalties will need to be maxed out just like every year. Also, the CPU subbed in players more often, or so it seemed to me. They also seem to have added plays, and biting on the play action is never more prevlant.

The game's tight. I'm not messing with RFTH yet, nor starting a dynasty until I can get my hands on some ps2 rosters.. but I'll get plenty of games in tonight as I have the house all to myself. My wife just called and said, "I think the kids and I are staying over at my sisters house tonight." .....ok honey, looks like it's me and the ps2 tonight! ;)

[Eaglesfan27]

One game so far.

Default AA is much harder for me than what I've been reading about other peoples impressions. I threw 5 int's with Brad Smith and since it's been quite some time since I've played NCAA football (2004), I'm a tad rusty.

The running game is so much fun now.. both for me and the CPU. The CPU will run on you and I love the fact they goto their impact player(s) as much as possible, really makes you think before the snap. Passing seems dead on right now. The game was in the snow, so dropped passes were realistic, imo.

The speed seems perfect as well and the game overall is really tightened up. Seems like they spent a lot of time fine tuning things in the gameplay department. I've already seen many new animations - mostly when running the ball - and a good back rarely goes down when one defender touches him. I like the controller layout so far.

Hmmm... 8 mins seemed about right, penalties will need to be maxed out just like every year. Also, the CPU subbed in players more often, or so it seemed to me. They also seem to have added plays, and biting on the play action is never more prevlant.

The game's tight. I'm not messing with RFTH yet, nor starting a dynasty until I can get my hands on some ps2 rosters.. but I'll get plenty of games in tonight as I have the house all to myself. My wife just called and said, "I think the kids and I are staying over at my sisters house tonight." .....ok honey, looks like it's me and the ps2 tonight! ;)
Lucky.

[TargetPractice6]

I asked on MaddenMania... bad news:
after season 1 sim.....22 guys over 180 rating.....4 guys over 200 rating......45 guys with 70% comp or better

[Eaglesfan27]

I asked on MaddenMania... bad news:
The question is: does it correct itself after in season 2 and beyond?

[TargetPractice6]

The question is: does it correct itself after in season 2 and beyond?Not sure, nobody else has reported anything. Would be strange if it was just one season though... What would change afterwards to make completion percentages drop?

[Ironhead]

Not sure, nobody else has reported anything. Would be strange if it was just one season though... What would change afterwards to make completion percentages drop?

Hope? I don't really know. All I know is that this was never a problem before this year so it makes little sense why it suddenly crept into the game. I mean, it isn't like EA rewrites the code for this game each year. I guess we are just hoping it disappears.

[MizzouRah]

I found Blacklover's ps2 rosters, so I'm going to start a Missouri dynasty tonight on AA defaults, penalties maxed out.

Might as well jump right into the game. :)

Back later...

[CraigSca]

OMG, TODD! Grats on getting the game!!

You're playing on the PS2 - are you seeing the slowdown issues others are seeing?

[korme]

Im so incredibly bored and wish I had a copy.. I am seriously considering firing 2005 back up and just playing it.

[General Mike]

Im so incredibly bored and wish I had a copy.. I am seriously considering firing 2005 back up and just playing it.

I did that yesterday, and just started doing a sim dynasty with Rutgers. So far I'm 27-20 with 2 bowl appearances (both losses) and 2 year probation with 10 scholarships lost both years.

[rexallllsc]

I simmed 4 years. After every year, there's consistently 20 players with 70 completion rates.

Does anyone think this could be to give realistic final scores in games? And to do so, player stats are out of whack? I dunno. Grasping at straws here.

[rexallllsc]

Oh, and I do see less "hair pull out" drops on the whole.

[Celeval]

I simmed 4 years. After every year, there's consistently 20 players with 70 completion rates.

Does anyone think this could be to give realistic final scores in games? And to do so, player stats are out of whack? I dunno. Grasping at straws here.
Do sliders affect simming? What about more than 4 years - once the entirety of the initial pool of players are gone, does that help?

[rexallllsc]

Do sliders affect simming? What about more than 4 years - once the entirety of the initial pool of players are gone, does that help?

I was thinking that (beyond 4 years). I'll try later tonight.

Sliders - I'm not sure. I'm using defaults still. On All-American, btw.

Also, completion %s seem very normal in games v. the computer......

[Eaglesfan27]

I was thinking that (beyond 4 years). I'll try later tonight.

Sliders - I'm not sure. I'm using defaults still. On All-American, btw.

Also, completion %s seem very normal in games v. the computer......

Well, that last bit is good news :)

[MizzouRah]

Yes, completion %'s in a played game are just about perfect, imo.

I won my first game of the season, 47-7 over Arkansas St. The game was closer than the score, not to mention I knocked out their QB in the first quarter. They returned the favor late in the third as Brad Smith is now out for 10 weeks.. ouch!!

They had 150+ rushing yards, I had about 180 or so. Everything else stat wise seemed good to me... again, I'm not looking for FOF type stats, just believeable.

Recruiting so far is a mixed bag. I'm starting to get into yet, but at first it's a tad confusing.. I love reading what they say about you or your school. One recruit told me he didn't like my coaching style.

I'll start checking league leaders tomorrow when I play another game.

[hollmt]

in simmed games that i ran at work, the stats were pretty decent. i ran it on 8 minute quarters and simmed out just a few games. some nice animations, tackles, option plays, trick plays all were being run.....however.....

the simmed season stats for passing is outrageous like everyone else has said. i ran about 4 sims. the first one, only 7 qbs were above 200 rating with about 20 or so completing 70% of their passes. WR were not dropping a damn thing. the leading dropped passes WR had 8 for the year. every other stat, rushing, tackles, sacks, etc. seem pretty good even with the simmed season.

i went ahead and adjusted the sliders for QB accurace and DB awareness, and the next season i had 14 QB with 200 or more rating and another 20+ QB with 70% or more completion. this went on every season i ran.

tomorrow i will run all the seasons in a row and see if there is any difference once the current players are gone.

overall though, it seems pretty good...but i like to run coach mode and hands off, and i think that again, unless i let the cpu play out every game...im screwed for realistic stats in simmed seasons.

[rexallllsc]

More observations:

WRs actually catch hard passes on curls sometimes now
No super LBs yet...I just threw a quick slant right over the LB where only my WR and a good S could get it. The jukes are good and not overdone like in the version (i.e. untackleable)

I'm pretty darn happy with this so far. I'm gonna try some long bombs soon and see if I get the 4 DBs convering on the WR thing...

[sabotai]

Well, it was nice of EA to rush the game out with an obvious stat flaw so it could be in stores 2 weeks early.... :)

[rexallllsc]

More thoughts - If you drop back too far, you will get sacked. Makes sense, but in past versions this wasnt always the case.

I can now get pressure sometimes with my DL.

I'll be interested to see what's up w/ this Completion issue. Other than that, a lot of positives so far.

[mrsimperless]

Hmmmm, I wonder what the odds are of EA putting a patch out for the xbox version?

[Philliesfan980]

Wow, talk about a complete gamebreaker for people who want to run a dynasty. Thanks EA, you nailed it again! Everything looks great gameplay wise, and I guess thats what it will be good for. But I don't see anyway I can play a dynasty like this.

Also, after reading over some test sims at MaddenMania, someone's sim produced results that includes *ALL* Qb's throwing at least 25 td's!

So when's Jim releasing TCY2? :)



(edit to include more info)

[TargetPractice6]

He didn't mean all QBs threw over 25 TDs. He said that the league high was 14 interceptions throw. Five players were tied at that mark, but none threw less than 25 TDs. He also said the worst ratio was 14-9.

[ice4277]

Even though the QB stats issue is one of the things that I detest EA for (blatant problem pops up that was never there before and isn't fixed), I probably could live with it fairly well. If I want all my stats to come out ultra-realistic, I generally know that I will need to play a text sim. When I want to play a graphics-based game, that isn't as big of a concern for me.

[Philliesfan980]

Even though the QB stats issue is one of the things that I detest EA for (blatant problem pops up that was never there before and isn't fixed), I probably could live with it fairly well. If I want all my stats to come out ultra-realistic, I generally know that I will need to play a text sim. When I want to play a graphics-based game, that isn't as big of a concern for me.


I agree with you on your point that it is a graphical game, and that you don't expect the stats to be drop dead realistic. But these numbers are really out of wack!

[CraigSca]

Yeah, these numbers are really out of whack, but fortunately I've never really enjoyed NCAA in a text sim mode. To each his own, I suppose, but I'm really enjoying hearing that the games played out seem much more realistic than last year.

[MacroGuru]

Thats what I don't get about people bitching about the "sim" mode stats and such....This is for joysticks jockeys not the die hard sim it to get 100% accurate stats for a game, it has never been built for that.

EA has never really said that either from what I can remember.

I love the TCY and the realism it brings, if I am playing NCAA it's for fun and the recruiting mode.....

[hollmt]

after running 5 seasons straight, the stats dont change for the QB in simmed seasons.

this is my thought on this issue though. in the RFTH mode i believe MOST people will choose to be a QB, and most people playing at the QB position will be fairly adept at it given some time. perhaps the QB rating being so high offers some competition to the player for him/her to win the heisman, and throws out some high stats (QB rating, completion %, TD/INT ratio, etc.)

this offers some challenge for the player to do exceptionally well, which he/whe will have to do, to win the trophy.

[Philliesfan980]

Thats what I don't get about people bitching about the "sim" mode stats and such....This is for joysticks jockeys not the die hard sim it to get 100% accurate stats for a game, it has never been built for that.

EA has never really said that either from what I can remember.

I love the TCY and the realism it brings, if I am playing NCAA it's for fun and the recruiting mode.....

I think people are missing the boat here, its not that we're asking for TCY like stats, just give me something in the realm of possiblity.

[Philliesfan980]

after running 5 seasons straight, the stats dont change for the QB in simmed seasons.

this is my thought on this issue though. in the RFTH mode i believe MOST people will choose to be a QB, and most people playing at the QB position will be fairly adept at it given some time. perhaps the QB rating being so high offers some competition to the player for him/her to win the heisman, and throws out some high stats (QB rating, completion %, TD/INT ratio, etc.)

this offers some challenge for the player to do exceptionally well, which he/whe will have to do, to win the trophy.

Not me, I'm going to be a punter.

[MizzouRah]

It'll be awhile before I can see how the rest of the teams shape up stat wise, but as far as gameplay goes.. right now it's better than 2004.

It's going to be interesting trying to compete now that my QB is out.

[Philliesfan980]

It'll be awhile before I can see how the rest of the teams shape up stat wise, but as far as gameplay goes.. right now it's better than 2004.

It's going to be interesting trying to compete now that my QB is out.

Awesome to hear, considering 2004 had solid gameplay.

[MizzouRah]

After 2 weeks, one QB has a rating of 200+, the rest are below that.

Getting ready to play my second game of the season.. will check stats after I'm done.

[MizzouRah]

dola,

After my 3rd week, 14 QB's have 200+ QB ratings. I think Phillisfan is right, not enough INT's. Oh well, not an issue for me.

It is too easy to run on AA default, so I'll have to do some slider tweaking soon.

[rexallllsc]

One thing that's really noticeable for me is that it's easier to run with the ball after the catch vs. weaker teams. You can really get open and make moves once you get the ball.

vs. better teams, it's harder to do this, but you can still get open and not get pounded the second you catch it.

I started a dynasty w/ Arizona and we played NAU (d1-AA) in our second game, and I absolutely beat the crap out of them. Nice to see since in the last one when you played a d1-aa team they often hung around and/or made big plays.

[ageofquarrel]

since high scoring was an issue in previous games, maybe they ended up decreasing the chance of INTs to keep them from being returned for Tds?

[Ironhead]

What I honestly think happened was EA saw the complaints that the computer completion percentages were low so they raised them. What they never bothered to comprehend was that it was just a problem in played games, not simmed ones.

[HomerJSimpson]

Thats what I don't get about people bitching about the "sim" mode stats and such....This is for joysticks jockeys not the die hard sim it to get 100% accurate stats for a game, it has never been built for that.

EA has never really said that either from what I can remember.

I love the TCY and the realism it brings, if I am playing NCAA it's for fun and the recruiting mode.....


I don't see how you don't get it. :)

I hate, hate, hate TCY. Never could play it for more than a season. And after trying all the other college football text sims out there (what? There are none? hmmm....), EA's version is the only game in town. Of course, gameplay flaws ever year have kept it from being all it could be (for "coach mode play" that is), but at least you could generally sim a few seasons for fun (1000X more fun than TCY). Now, this totally ruins that. As Philliesfan points out, the stats don't have to be exact, but this is just way too much.

This is all besides a greater point to me (and I think Philliesfan as well) that a graphic based sim would just be much fun than a text-based sim anyway. I don't enjoy very many text-based sim because most ignore the most important part of a sports sim to me : the actual game. Most text based sims have the games as an after-thought. They are hard to get into, you can't really "see" what is happening, and after you play a few games you feel like you have seen it all.

The only text sim that I can think of that did well in getting you into the game is FM, and with the little dots graphics it is even better. Sadly, though, that is not the sport I love. College football is. And the only reason I even owned a console was this game. Now, it'll be at least another year before I'll touch the thing again. *sigh*

[MizzouRah]

I should have mentioned I beat the Lobos of New Mexico - 38 to 26. Quite a fun game to boot.

I'm not sure what to think of recruiting yet. Unless I'm doing something wrong, be careful when you target your next recruits - once you select the initial X amount, I don't think you can go back and select new ones to target. I'm still learning the recruiting process though and maybe this is not such a bad idea.

[Eaglesfan27]

I should have mentioned I beat the Lobos of New Mexico - 38 to 26. Quite a fun game to boot.

I'm not sure what to think of recruiting yet. Unless I'm doing something wrong, be careful when you target your next recruits - once you select the initial X amount, I don't think you can go back and select new ones to target. I'm still learning the recruiting process though and maybe this is not such a bad idea.
I'm fairly sure from the previews that you can only target 12 recruits for "in-season" recruiting to focus on. After the season, you can target more recruits.

[JeeberD]

I beat the Lobos of New Mexico - 38 to 26.

I heart Todd. :)

[ice4277]

Is there some sort of option to totally eliminate in-season recruiting and just do it the old-fashioned way?

[Ironhead]

I don't think so. The way in season recruiting works is that during the season you target 12 players and go after them. During in-season recruiting you can only target 3 star and up prospects. Some players will make commitments to various teams during the season. Then during the offseason normal old-fashion recruiting resumes for all high school players that didn't already sign with someone.

From what I have read it is a little too easy to sign the four and five star prospects during in-season recruiting when you have a bad team. This is solved easy enough by just making a house rule that if you have a team that is only 2 or 3 stars you cannot target the four and five star players during in-season recruiting.

[Ironhead]

Okay, I was looking at the quarterback thing and I think I see what the real issue here is. When simming CPU quarterbacks are not getting enough recorded attempts. Not only does this push up the completion percentages but it also pushes up the yards per pass attempt and touchdowns per pass attempt. That is why we are seeing so many insanely high quarterback ratings. I would wager that you are going to also be seeing quarterbacks with an average yards per completion average around 11 to 13 yards when simming.

[Shkspr]

I heart Todd. :)

I club Jeeber. :)

[MizzouRah]

I don't think so. The way in season recruiting works is that during the season you target 12 players and go after them. During in-season recruiting you can only target 3 star and up prospects. Some players will make commitments to various teams during the season. Then during the offseason normal old-fashion recruiting resumes for all high school players that didn't already sign with someone.

From what I have read it is a little too easy to sign the four and five star prospects during in-season recruiting when you have a bad team. This is solved easy enough by just making a house rule that if you have a team that is only 2 or 3 stars you cannot target the four and five star players during in-season recruiting.
Thanks for the information!!

[Bee]

dola,

After my 3rd week, 14 QB's have 200+ QB ratings. I think Phillisfan is right, not enough INT's.



Isn't there a slider to tweak the interceptions or does that only affect played games?

[jbmagic]

Isn't there a slider to tweak the interceptions or does that only affect played games?


sliders is for played games only.


i wish sliders and minutes per quarter affect sims games too for NCAA and Madden games.

[CraigSca]

But it's a chicken or the egg, unless they make two sets of sliders. I can imagine dumbing down SIMMED quarterbacks, but then your in-game QB would be adversely affected as well.

For me, as long as the gameplay is good, I'm happy.

[MizzouRah]

But it's a chicken or the egg, unless they make two sets of sliders. I can imagine dumbing down SIMMED quarterbacks, but then your in-game QB would be adversely affected as well.

For me, as long as the gameplay is good, I'm happy.
Then I think you'll be happy. I am so far.

[sabotai]

The stat thing probably won't bother me too much. In fact, I dan't think of any time where I checked the stats for other players and teams while playing NCAA or any console game. My team pretty much exists in a vaccum for console games as I really pay no attention to anything else that happens.

[Balldog]

The stat thing probably won't bother me too much. In fact, I dan't think of any time where I checked the stats for other players and teams while playing NCAA or any console game. My team pretty much exists in a vaccum for console games as I really pay no attention to anything else that happens.

That is kind of what I was thinking as well. Especially with passing stats, I check out rushing yards, tackles, sacks, etc. more often.

[mrsimperless]

I plan on simply watching every game of the season in in-game mode. That will take care of the QB stat issues. Problem solved.

[CraigSca]

I think that's a great idea, not unlike Steven Wright's map of the world that's actual size. 1 mile = 1 mile :D

[MizzouRah]

Damn, I can't wait to get home and play. :p

Troy is going to see what my boys are made of... even without Smith.

I'm even liking AA default - 8 mins - penalties all the way up - sub out 70%/sub in 85%

[rexallllsc]

In-season recruiting is kinda weird. Someone said it's half-@ssed and I kinda agree. It's not broken, just don't really know what, if anything, to do with it.

Impact players on D force too many fumbles, IMO...

[MizzouRah]

What can I say, I heart this game. It's been so much fun playing.. even after my 44-17 loss to Troy, which means AA defaults are just fine for my style of play right now.

It's fun, it's addicting.. and although the stats are not totally believeable, this might be the only football game I get this year. I'm not going to mess with the sliders until I'm unstoppable on AA defaults. Troy dominated me, this after two good wins and my confidence a little high. Turnovers killed me and I could never recover.

Also, and this might sound weird.. I like the recruiting part of big signees during the season and the rest of the signings at the end of the season.

The running game is actually much more fun for me than 2004 was. I also like when my impact player gets in the zone, a one-on-one matchup favors the receiver... unless the CB is also in the zone, then it's a battle.

The game is not for stat freaks, no console game really is.. but for gameplay and fun factor, I'm loving it so far.

For those of you getting it tomorrow, get you some real player name rosters and start a dynasty up. I think most of you will like it, especially those who really get into college football.

[jbmagic]

are the gameplay stats realistic?

sims stats are off right?

[MizzouRah]

are the gameplay stats realistic?

sims stats are off right?
Gameplay stats are about perfect except running seems easy for me so far and the CPU running game might be a tad low. Other than that (and I don't scour over stats that much), the rest seem fine.

Sim stats are high for the QB's as previously discussed.


GAMEPLAY is really fun and the added running and tackling animations are great.

[Philliesfan980]

What can I say, I heart this game. It's been so much fun playing.. even after my 44-17 loss to Troy, which means AA defaults are just fine for my style of play right now.

It's fun, it's addicting.. and although the stats are not totally believeable, this might be the only football game I get this year. I'm not going to mess with the sliders until I'm unstoppable on AA defaults. Troy dominated me, this after two good wins and my confidence a little high. Turnovers killed me and I could never recover.

Also, and this might sound weird.. I like the recruiting part of big signees during the season and the rest of the signings at the end of the season.

The running game is actually much more fun for me than 2004 was. I also like when my impact player gets in the zone, a one-on-one matchup favors the receiver... unless the CB is also in the zone, then it's a battle.

The game is not for stat freaks, no console game really is.. but for gameplay and fun factor, I'm loving it so far.

For those of you getting it tomorrow, get you some real player name rosters and start a dynasty up. I think most of you will like it, especially those who really get into college football.

I got it today as well, but really haven't had time to get into it. It's been a year or two since I've played alot of EA console football (heavy into NFL 2k series), do you think I should start out on AA default? I just got done playing a game with Penn State (me) VS. Penn and I was up 40-0 at the half on Varsity.

[Ironhead]

Picking the game up on my way to work tomorrow morning. Have the named Xbox rosters saved and ready to start my dynasty right out of the gate! I figure if I choose a lousy team and lose several games getting used to everything then it won't matter. :D

[TargetPractice6]

I have the game. I'll probably post my impressions tomorrow afternoon.

[Suicane75]

I know this is a longshot, but how many are interested in an online league? Im thinking a 1 conference 6-8 team kind of thing?

[21C]

I love reading this thread but I hate the fact that the game never gets released in Australia. Madden always makes it since there is a small audience for the NFL but the college game doesn't get any coverage here at all.

I'm strongly considering getting a US Xbox 360 shipped out when it gets released just so I can get this game in the future - if I can just work out what to do about the different elecrical plugs/voltages.

[Super Ugly]

I love reading this thread but I hate the fact that the game never gets released in Australia. Madden always makes it since there is a small audience for the NFL but the college game doesn't get any coverage here at all.

I hear you! I bought a Gamecube last year just so I could play an imported copy of NCAA without chipping the console, and I'm saddened that they've given up on that platform. I'm also thinking of buying a US XBox 360 - hopefully they'll be on sale when I go to the States this October.

At least I still have Madden, though. :)

[Emiliano]

I love reading this thread but I hate the fact that the game never gets released in Australia. Madden always makes it since there is a small audience for the NFL but the college game doesn't get any coverage here at all.

Tell me about it. Here, only thing people know is Totti, Vieri and company. They do care about Totti's wedding, but college sports??? What is it???

Anyway, the Internet: such a beautiful thing. Try this store: http://www.tronixweb.com. One week if you choose the USPS Global Priority method, and you got the game. Ordered a lot of US games from them, never have a problem. Last year I purchased Madden, NCAA, ESPN NFL, ESPN NBA. I'm telling you man, they're great. This year, I pre-ordered NCAA 2006 and I chose the FedEx International shipping: 2 days and I should have the game.
Obviously, you gotta have a "modded" console. Unless Australia is NTSC like the States...

[Emiliano]

IGN Review (http://xbox.ign.com/articles/632/632759p1.html)

[kingnebwsu]

Gamespot's review (http://www.gamespot.com/ps2/sports/ncaafootball2006/index.html)

I guessed 8.9 from Gamespot and 9.3 from IGN. Gamespot gave it an 8.8 and IGN gave it a 9.2. God I'm good :p

[Hoya1]

What's this thing that you can hook your PS2 memory card into your cpu? Is it a USB? Where can I get one?
I'd like to d/l the rosters onto a card, but I'm really not into sending my card out and getting it done

[Bee]

What's this thing that you can hook your PS2 memory card into your cpu? Is it a USB? Where can I get one?
I'd like to d/l the rosters onto a card, but I'm really not into sending my card out and getting it done

You'll need a Sharkport. You can probably pick one up cheap on Ebay (just do a search for ps2 sharkport). There may be other brands as well.

[Hoya1]

http://gocybershop.ca/customer/product.php?productid=318&cat=175&page=1

Something like this should work, I think. Anyone else have something like this?

These guys are not too far from me, atleast I don't have to wait weeks.......

[MizzouRah]

I got it today as well, but really haven't had time to get into it. It's been a year or two since I've played alot of EA console football (heavy into NFL 2k series), do you think I should start out on AA default? I just got done playing a game with Penn State (me) VS. Penn and I was up 40-0 at the half on Varsity.
Yes, I think default AA plays great out of the box. I do think rushing is easy, but hey.. I just got shelled by Troy. :)

[MizzouRah]

http://gocybershop.ca/customer/product.php?productid=318&cat=175&page=1

Something like this should work, I think. Anyone else have something like this?

These guys are not too far from me, atleast I don't have to wait weeks.......
I've never heard of that adapter. I'd go over to http://www.psxsports.com/ and read on what you need to d/l the rosters. I have a Max Drive and everything is quite easy.

At least make sure you can send that adapter back if it doesn't work.

[MizzouRah]

double dola,

Make sure that week by week you check your coaching page where it tells you if any recruits need disipline for various things. I don't think the game automatically tells you that information from week to week.

[DeToxRox]

I picked it up when GameStop opened at 9 am today (god bless having a day off)

Just played on AA vs Northern Illinois with Michigan.

I struggled early and was getting sacked a lot because I dropped back too much. NIU ran the ball well. Their RB had 26 rushes for 145 yards, but in the end Mike Hart was too much. I need to adjut stuff to fix rushing, though Hart's #'s in games last year were comparable. He ran 42 times for 256 yards and 3 scores.

All in all, I love it.

[Eaglesfan27]

Alright, I have a question and VERY early impressions from a half of AA of Race for the Heisman:

I remember in previews that the game is supposed to put you into Race for the Heisman when you turn it on for the first time or at least I'm fairly sure that I remember that. My game did not do that. There are only two reasons I can think that it didn't do that. One, I had already downloaded and installed Fairdale King's Xbox rosters, or two I have a slightly different version than what went out early to previewers (seems unlikely, but it is possible.)

Anyone else who didn't have it start the Race for the Heisman when you first installed the game?


As far as that mode, I hate that it puts you ahead of established stars, but it's easily fixable. I'm benching my guy for the year behind Leinhart (yes, I made it to USC on only my second attempt at the drill.)

As far as the gameplay, except for running being a bit too easy, I'm loving AA defaults. The deep pass has not been easy for me at all, as the CPU is getting excellent pressure on me even though it is Hawaii's defensive line vs USC's offensive line. However, my running game is doing great with Bush having about 10 carries for 110 yards at the half. I'm able to complete short passes and am 9 of 14 for 53 yards with a TD and an interception.

Oh yeah, Hawaii's QB is tearing me apart with 9 of 16 passes for 114 yards with 1 TD 0 INT. Hawaii isn't running much (which is to be expected) and I can't wait to see when I face a good rushing team.

[wade moore]

I'm getting this tonight..

but from my experience with EA games in general, i bet you did not get the RFTH because of the rosters you d/l'd...

[illinifan999]

My game put me into RFTH right away, did scrambling QB, did fairly well. Right stick for juke is gonna take some getting used to, but I was able to pitch the ball and it was cool not being able to control the HB and trying to get my guy downfield to block. Got offers from Tennessee, Florida State, and Ohio State. Talk about no choices, I ended up picking FSU. I liked seeing gang tackling.

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

I club Jeeber. :)
I heart CHEM. :confused:

[Hoya1]

Quote:
Originally Posted by Hoya1
http://gocybershop.ca/customer/prod...&cat=175&page=1

Something like this should work, I think. Anyone else have something like this?

These guys are not too far from me, atleast I don't have to wait weeks.......


I've never heard of that adapter. I'd go over to http://www.psxsports.com/ and read on what you need to d/l the rosters. I have a Max Drive and everything is quite easy.

At least make sure you can send that adapter back if it doesn't work.
Do you use a sharkport? How does the Max Drive work? Isn't this just a storage device.

[Eaglesfan27]

Well default AA is tough for me. I ended up losing to Hawaii (C-rated Team) 40-35 with USC. Of course, I spotted them 16 points before I realized, do NOT drop back too far, the defensive line will kill you. However, even with staying in the pocket, the pressure was rough. I'll have to check the D-Line ratings of Hawaii and the O-line ratings of USC after I'm done posting these stats, but I might bump the User O-Line up a bit for pass blocking.

Anyway, I thought the stats were fairly good with 8 minute quarters:

Passing:

Kainoa Akina, QB Hawaii: 34 of 60 passing for 354 yards, 2 TD, 1 INT. I didn't get any sacks on him as he threw it away quickly, but I did get about 20 hurries which caused many of the incompletions.

Matt Leinart: 21 of 42 passes for 251 yards, 3 TD, 2 INT, sacked 5 times, and hurried a bunch.

Rushing:

Reggie Bush: 18 carries for 122 yards, 1 TD, 40 yards after the first contact. They really keyed on him in the second half and slowed him down.

Lendale White 8 carries for 37 yards.

Nate Ilaoa, Hawaii RB - 15 carries for 72 yards. The jerk kept running effective out of the 4 WR spread set, particularly in the second half.


Receiving:

Ross Dickerson (impact receiver for Hawaii): 12 catches for 113 yards including a 40 yard bomb. 1TD, 0 drops.

Nate Ilaoa: 5 catches for 50 yards. 1 drop.

Their 3rd and 4th string receivers had 3 drops between them.


Reggie Bush: 11 catches for 92 yards. Even when he was in the zone, I couldn't get any automatic deep throws, and most of his catches were short as they always had a safety helping deep on him. 1TD, 1 drop.

Steve Smith: 4 catches for 97 yards, including a 42 yard bomb. 1TD. 2 drops (1 on a bomb, and 1 where he was crushed by a strong safety on a cross.)

Chris Mcfoy: 3 catches for 25 yards. 1 drop.

Whitney Lewis: Dropped both passes I threw towards him, but he was crushed on the first one which hurt his composure.

No O-linemen had more than 8 pancake blocks (Sam Baker, my LT led the game with 8 pancake blocks and 1 sack allowed.0

Whinston Justice my RT allowed 3 sacks.

There were 2 to 3 defendders on each team with about 10 tackles. On my team, it was my MLB, SLB, and CB. My superstar SS went out in the 1st quarter with an injury that sidelined him for 9 weeks.


Overall, it was fun even though I lost. I'm going to start my dynasty now (and therefore play the same game again, and see if I can do better without spotting them 16 points. I'll probably alternate between my RFTH and regular dynasty throughout upcoming weeks.)

[MizzouRah]

Mine went right into RFTH as well, although I got out of it, installed the rosters and then started a dynasty with Missouri.

[MizzouRah]

I've noticed the CPU seems to run better in the 2nd half on me as well.

EF,

Keep them on default, as once you get more games under your belt, passing will become easy with more pass blocking. It took me about 2 games before I felt comfortable in the pocket with my QB.

Do you use a sharkport? How does the Max Drive work? Isn't this just a storage device.
No, I have a Max Drive (Datel) and yes it's like a jump drive with software for your ps2 to read it. Very easy.. d/l roster set, insert usb drive (max drive), transfer rosters to it, insert into ps2, load up the software and uncrunch to your memory card. Extremely easy. ;)

[Bearcat729]

I started a race for the heisman game today. Choosing a scrambling QB you run the option training game. I was offered 3 scholarships to #3 Iowa, #7 Michigan and #12 Ohio St. You also have the option of walking on to the school of your choice.

I think this could be a good game for Ardent to try his Walk On dynasty again.

[illinifan999]

Wow this is the COOLEST thing I have ever seen in a video game. I'm playing Miami right now, and their starting QB is having just a horrific game. Before halftime he's got 3 INT's, sacked, hurried, and a fumble. So instead of jus tleaving him in there, they have substituted him out, and it's not even a blowout yet. Never seen that happen before.

[Esquared1]

Does 2006 offer any extra options when creating teams? Since I'm a big nerd, I usually kick out Conf-USA teams and create all Div-III Midwest Conference teams. I need to see Beloit College do well. . .

[illinifan999]

No create-a-school is my favorite feature to use, but yet again they didn't add anything to it this year. Same logos, same uniforms, kinda sucks.

[Kodos]

Do small schools like Cornell still have generic stadiums?

[Esquared1]

No create-a-school is my favorite feature to use, but yet again they didn't add anything to it this year. Same logos, same uniforms, kinda sucks.

. . . Then I'm happy with 2005. . . All I was looking for was a little upgrade, that's all!

[Karlifornia]

Wow this is the COOLEST thing I have ever seen in a video game. I'm playing Miami right now, and their starting QB is having just a horrific game. Before halftime he's got 3 INT's, sacked, hurried, and a fumble. So instead of jus tleaving him in there, they have substituted him out, and it's not even a blowout yet. Never seen that happen before.

Are you serious? Are you sure he didn't get hurt? I've been waiting for this forever....

[moriarty]

Question on the inflated QB Stats thing (and maybe no one has played enough yet, but....):

Does this basically eliminate any chance of your QB winning the Heisman? I mean, if there's pretty much no chance of you matching the sim stats ... there's pretty much no way your QB wil capture the Heisman right? Not that it's that big a deal, just wondering ....

[illinifan999]

Are you serious? Are you sure he didn't get hurt? I've been waiting for this forever....
yep no injury

[rexallllsc]

Mine went right into RFTH as well, although I got out of it, installed the rosters and then started a dynasty with Missouri.

I don't like the RFTH interface...Seems clunky.

[JeeberD]

DVDPlanet still doesn't show it has having been shipped yet... :mad:

[Bearcat729]

I don't like the RFTH interface...Seems clunky.


It seems like the skybox that ESPN has.

My problem is that if you try to practice it's only running that same mini game(In my case the option scramble)

[Eaglesfan27]

Wow this is the COOLEST thing I have ever seen in a video game. I'm playing Miami right now, and their starting QB is having just a horrific game. Before halftime he's got 3 INT's, sacked, hurried, and a fumble. So instead of jus tleaving him in there, they have substituted him out, and it's not even a blowout yet. Never seen that happen before.

I was just about to post this as well :)

In my dynasty game against Hawaii, I intercepted their starting QB 3 times, I've sacked him twice and he is looking rattled. They put in their backup who has played the last 4 minutes of the 1st half. Unfortunately for Hawaii, he threw another interception and I'm up 42-0 at half on them now. Definitely a different feel from my loss to them last time where things went bad and snowballed downhill in the first half.

Todd,

I didn't change any sliders, but I used Reggie Bush and the rushing attack to set up the pass. As a result, Leinart is doing well with 12 of 18 passes for 170 yards and 3 TD at the half.

[Eaglesfan27]

Are you serious? Are you sure he didn't get hurt? I've been waiting for this forever....
I also had this happen, and I'm positive Hawaii's QB was not hurt :)

[Eaglesfan27]

Double Dola -

In both games against Hawaii, my superstar SS Darnell Bing has dislocated his elbow :(

The only upside is that he is only down for 7 weeks in my dynasty mode game.

One other very cool thing is that the CPU is being very smart with their star WR. They are getting the ball in a large variety of ways and he is really still hurting me to an extent.

[rexallllsc]

Does anyone have good sliders? I have 1 pick in 5 games...although I *am* using Arizona (I'm 1-4, only win vs. NAU in d1aa)

[msf518]

DVDPlanet still doesn't show it has having been shipped yet... :mad:

I emailed them last night and they said they only got half of their shipment in before today, which is why people like Bee are getting theirs today, and us unlucky folk like you and I are stuck waiting. Supposedly the rest are shipping today. Can't beat the price, but this slowness really sucks.

[Jets80]

Anyone know of any PS2 roster files out there. I have searched around and found rosters for Xbox but have not seen and PS2 yet.. any one stumple apon or download any PS2 yet ??

Thanks
Jets

[Kodos]

Anyone know of any PS2 roster files out there. I have searched around and found rosters for Xbox but have not seen and PS2 yet.. any one stumple apon or download any PS2 yet ??

Thanks
Jets

http://www.psxsports.com/

This is dtlindner's site, which I've used in the past and been satisfied with. However, a lot of folks believe that he steals others' work and claims it as his own. Anyhow, this year I think I will use the fictional names feature and then just rename either Indiana U's roster, or possibly the whole Big Ten.

[moriarty]

Does anyone have good sliders? I have 1 pick in 5 games...although I *am* using Arizona (I'm 1-4, only win vs. NAU in d1aa)

Check the NCAA forum over at Operation Sports. Bill Abner and some others have some sliders posted. It'll take a while though before they're completely ironed out.

[jbmagic]

Eaglesfan and Todd


for AA, if running is too easy drop run blk -5 and running -5 for human.

[MizzouRah]

Anyone know of any PS2 roster files out there. I have searched around and found rosters for Xbox but have not seen and PS2 yet.. any one stumple apon or download any PS2 yet ??

Thanks
Jets
How many times do I have to post this?

register over at www.maddenmania.com (http://www.maddenmania.com) - Blacklover's roster set for the ps2 is linked in the NCAA forums. :) or I could send them to you when I get home later if you don't want to register over there.

[Kodos]

How much is one of those action replay things? I end up sending my memory card in the mail every year...

[MizzouRah]

Eaglesfan and Todd


for AA, if running is too easy drop run blk -5 and running -5 for human.
Thanks, but I'm playing on defaults unless I'm really running all over the place. I think the differences in good vs bad teams is really apparent in this years version. I'm not touching anything besides penalties and sub in/sub out... at least until I've played through a season or see a GLARING issue.

[MizzouRah]

I was just about to post this as well :)

In my dynasty game against Hawaii, I intercepted their starting QB 3 times, I've sacked him twice and he is looking rattled. They put in their backup who has played the last 4 minutes of the 1st half. Unfortunately for Hawaii, he threw another interception and I'm up 42-0 at half on them now. Definitely a different feel from my loss to them last time where things went bad and snowballed downhill in the first half.

Todd,

I didn't change any sliders, but I used Reggie Bush and the rushing attack to set up the pass. As a result, Leinart is doing well with 12 of 18 passes for 170 yards and 3 TD at the half.
See, I told you. :p

[moriarty]

How much is one of those action replay things? I end up sending my memory card in the mail every year...

$29.99 at Best Buy.

[MikeVick7]

DVDPlanet still doesn't show it has having been shipped yet... :mad:
Jeebs - You should have reserved a copy at Gamestop across I-35 and then picked it up last night at Midnight :)

[General Mike]

How many times do I have to post this?

register over at www.maddenmania.com (http://www.maddenmania.com) - Blacklover's roster set for the ps2 is linked in the NCAA forums. :) or I could send them to you when I get home later if you don't want to register over there.

You can also get Blacklover's roster set at Geekrosters.com (http://www.geekrosters.com/ncaafootball.htm)

[moriarty]

Slider link:
hxxp://forums.operationsports.com/vBulletin/forumdisplay.php?f=71

Roster link: Xbox (fairdale) and PS2 (blacklover) hxxp://forums.operationsports.com/vBulletin/forumdisplay.php?f=70

Hxxp'd just in case they have questionable material in their forum.

[Eaglesfan27]

Does anyone have good sliders? I have 1 pick in 5 games...although I *am* using Arizona (I'm 1-4, only win vs. NAU in d1aa)
I'm not sure about sliders to increase interceptions, but I just had 7 picks in a game using USC vs Hawaii. I had 4 against the starter, and 3 against the backup who came in because the starter was playing so bad.

[rexallllsc]

Thanks, but I'm playing on defaults unless I'm really running all over the place. I think the differences in good vs bad teams is really apparent in this years version. I'm not touching anything besides penalties and sub in/sub out... at least until I've played through a season or see a GLARING issue.

Yeah, I can see the difference too - and I like that. In the past, d1aa teams could make a game of things. The #1 team wouldn't play much different than a mid-level team.

Well, I put up 77 on NAU and lost by 50+ to #1 USC. My points coming on a fumble recovery inside the 20 1 minutes into the game, and then seeing USC scoring 66 straight points before I scored a TD in the last few minutes.

[Eaglesfan27]

Thanks, but I'm playing on defaults unless I'm really running all over the place. I think the differences in good vs bad teams is really apparent in this years version. I'm not touching anything besides penalties and sub in/sub out... at least until I've played through a season or see a GLARING issue.

I agree. Yeah, I just had Reggie Bush and Lendale White run all over Hawaii, but Hawaii isn't known for having much of a rush defense. Bush had 14 carries for 198 yards (including one amazing 68 yard TD run, and one very good 47 yard TD run.) White had 118 carries on 15 carries with one 42 yard TD run.


The difference between good and bad teams is just very evident (as long as you don't drop back 9 or 11 steps with your QB ;))

[Eaglesfan27]

Dola -

One thing that I like (may only be for impact players, but I know he wasn't in the zone) is that players will sometimes use stiff arms in appropriate places even without pushing the button. I juked with Bush and then he threw a stiff arm on his own that together burst him past two guys for that 68 yard TD run.

[DeToxRox]

I just won 31-14 over Michigan State but the game was close late.

The Impact players is awesome.

With the game on the line, and needed to kill some time, Mike Hart busts a 51 yard run up the middle, in the process derailing MSU's Impact DB and busting the game open for me in the process.

I had 5 INT's against MSU as they are a throwing team (though they did run 23 times), but Stanton was being pressured all day.

I love this game.

[JeeberD]

Jeebs - You should have reserved a copy at Gamestop across I-35 and then picked it up last night at Midnight :)

If I weren't such a cheap ass mofo I would have done just that, but getting the game for $35 makes the wait worthwhile, I suppose.

[General Mike]

Serenity Now

[MizzouRah]

Have you seen that neat slow-mo animation when your player is in the zone and makes a great hit or play? Neat...

[Eaglesfan27]

Have you seen that neat slow-mo animation when your player is in the zone and makes a great hit or play? Neat...
Yes! It doesn't happen too often which I like, but it looks cool when it happens and it didn't disrupt my play the one time that it happened.

[MikeVick7]

This may be a bit off topic but does anyone use Sharkport anymore for uploading rosters? I switched computers since NCAA 2005 was out and now I'm trying to find the interface to download onto my new computer and I can't find it anywhere on the net.

Does anyone know where I can download it? Or if I can use the Sharkport hardware with a different interface? Me confused.

[mrsimperless]

Well my first game out of the box I started a dynasty with Mississippi. My first game of the season was vs. Memphis. I'm used to having the computer be jsut absolutely horrible against me (except for cheap plays) But Deangelo Williams absolutely ATE ME UP. This is the best football game I've ever played, bar none.

The only complaint I have so far is that it seems maybe a little bit too easy to run. Breaking off 5-10 yarders up the middle is commonplace. But also, when I did a O-line D-line ocmparison my O-line is much better than the D-lines I've faced so far. So hopefully that has a lot to do with it. It would be nice to see a game where the O-line actually makes a huge difference. I have Tennessee coming up in a few weeks, so we'l see what happens then.

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

Just played an exhibition game Texas v. USC on AA. Let me tell you Vince Young is GOD on EARTH!!!!!! He torched USC'S defense. These are his stats.
14-22 138 yds 1/2
19 rush 233 3tds
My defense kept bush and leinhart down, except for one play where Bush stiff armed my DE. I was surprised that he wouldnt go down and dragged my DT's around the field.
It seems from the first game I played that The scrambler is a key factor in this years game. Kinda reminds me of Madden 04.

[cartman]

Man, reading all of this makes me jealous. I won't be home for another couple of weeks to pick up the game, so until then, I will have to live vicariously through these postings.

[Buzzbee]

Found out today how much my yearly bonus is. Bought NCAA 2006 at lunch.

[Eaglesfan27]

After a half against Arkansas, I have a few more thoughts:

I love to see the CPU run (or at least try to run) against me. Arkansas's strength is their HB and FB, and they are attempting to use the option, they are attempting some fancy runs. They are having some success, but even as they go down 28-0, they are sticking with it in the second quarter.

I've never seen a version where the computer is so crafty with pitches. One play that got them a big gain was a handoff to the FB. As I was about to tackle him, he pitched to the HB. The HB scampered for 27 yards before I caught him.

Reggie Bush is a beast in the game. He was contained for his first 9 carries and only had 35 yards, but I finally broke one to the outside and just outran the defense. Loved to see the seperation get bigger as he finished the 63 yard run.


With Bill Abner and others saying the fly route is too easy to run, I found myself not throwing deep hardly at all in my first game. My 2nd game I threw deep and completed about 35-40% of them. I'm not sure if I should feel guilty or not, but I'm throwing deep more this game because they are stacking the box with 8 men to stop Bush. In that case, I have to go to a deep pass once in a while. So far, Jarrett is just torching his man (they have their best cornerback who has good speed on Smith) and he has 3 long TD's. However, they have stopped 4 of those passes too where either Leinart overthrew it, or the defender just broke it up. So, it's not a money play and I'm not sure if I should feel bad about it or not. However, I choose to not feel bad about throwing deep for now.

Overall, it's a blast. Oh yeah, so far I really like the inseason recruiting. I already had the top rated QB and CB tell me to take a hike, so I'm glad to see that it isn't going to be excessively easy even with USC to get committments early. We'll see how I do with my remaining targets.

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

Do small schools like Cornell still have generic stadiums?
Dont know but U penn. doesnt have Franklin Field. :mad: Alas though, UNLV's stadium is finally accurate.

[JeeberD]

I hear that the Sun Bowl is finally accurate. I'm really looking forward to seeing the Durham Center over the north stands... :)

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

My game put me into RFTH right away, did scrambling QB, did fairly well. Right stick for juke is gonna take some getting used to, but I was able to pitch the ball and it was cool not being able to control the HB and trying to get my guy downfield to block. Got offers from Tennessee, Florida State, and Ohio State. Talk about no choices, I ended up picking FSU. I liked seeing gang tackling.
It seems RFTHT, almost guarantees the trophy to your player.

[MizzouRah]

Well my first game out of the box I started a dynasty with Mississippi. My first game of the season was vs. Memphis. I'm used to having the computer be jsut absolutely horrible against me (except for cheap plays) But Deangelo Williams absolutely ATE ME UP. This is the best football game I've ever played, bar none.

The only complaint I have so far is that it seems maybe a little bit too easy to run. Breaking off 5-10 yarders up the middle is commonplace. But also, when I did a O-line D-line ocmparison my O-line is much better than the D-lines I've faced so far. So hopefully that has a lot to do with it. It would be nice to see a game where the O-line actually makes a huge difference. I have Tennessee coming up in a few weeks, so we'l see what happens then.
Best game? Not sure yet, but I feel your excitement. :)

I thought running was easy, but it seems to me the game really differentiates between teams. I love that. My O-line is good, but going up against Troy, I couldn't do a thing with my RB who averaged over 200 yds per game.

The game to judge tonight will be vs #3 Texas.

[mhass]

To the earlier question, mine went straight to RFTH (I'm the starting QB for Georgia). I had not played 2005 and right away I noticed better graphics compared to 2004. Better player motions, better backgrounds, etc.

As for the Dynasty mode, I am very poor at the in-season recruiting and wish it were different. Nearly every player reduced their interest in my Dynasty team the first weeks. You get 100 'points' to spread over 12 recruits and spreading it evenly means they all lose interest. So you can target 12, but if you want to really pursue them, you end up ignoring four or five of those for lack of 'points'.

Gameplay is great. I might be wrong but I think the offensive playbook is either different or bigger with better plays, especially passing plays. I also ran into a benched opponent QB which was cool. Brad Nessler even mentions it (btw the announcing gets annoying just as fast as the other versions).

I just played 30 minutes or so over lunch, but I think it's worth the money.

[Buzzbee]

As for the Dynasty mode, I am very poor at the in-season recruiting and wish it were different. Nearly every player reduced their interest in my Dynasty team the first weeks. You get 100 'points' to spread over 12 recruits and spreading it evenly means they all lose interest. So you can target 12, but if you want to really pursue them, you end up ignoring four or five of those for lack of 'points'.

I haven't really kept up with all the features and additions and such, but I thought I read somewhere that there were 'soft' commitments. Is that true? Perhaps spreading the love might not get you a commitment now, but maybe it might leave the door open for that player to de-commit?

[Eaglesfan27]

Best game? Not sure yet, but I feel your excitement. :)

I thought running was easy, but it seems to me the game really differentiates between teams. I love that. My O-line is good, but going up against Troy, I couldn't do a thing with my RB who averaged over 200 yds per game.

The game to judge tonight will be vs #3 Texas.
Todd, I'm glad to hear that you had a tough game against Troy. Right now, we are just running over every body. Bush just had a 210 yard, 20 carry game against Arkansas. Hopefully, I'll see a much better challenge when we face a strong defensive team later in the game.

One thing that I've noticed and really like is that the fatigue effect is noticable. White runs over the defense in the 4th quarter, but he isn't nearly as dominant if I use him in the 1st or 2nd quarters. So, right now my plan is to wear out the defense with Bush's speed in the first 3 quarters, and then plow over them in the 4th with White.

[Eaglesfan27]

I haven't really kept up with all the features and additions and such, but I thought I read somewhere that there were 'soft' commitments. Is that true? Perhaps spreading the love might not get you a commitment now, but maybe it might leave the door open for that player to de-commit?
Yes, there are soft committments and that is a good point. I'm going to change my strategy of completely ignoring the guys who aren't responding early.

[mhass]

Ooh one other little thing that I LOVE and was definitely not in 2004 is the Auto-Name feature. That way you can eliminate all the people named MLB #45 and RB #8 which drove me nuts. So even the fictional roster can be assigned names. And it doesn't overwrite ones you've already changed.

[illinifan999]

in RFTH how do I see my girlfriend? I see a brief glimpse of her as I go to the computer screen, but I can't find the option to see her.

[Eaglesfan27]

Another thing that I really like, weather really affects the game. I've heard of people complaining of too many fumbles, but those people generally mention it was a rain game. I've only seen 1 fumble in 2 games so far with no rain. I haven't seen a rain game yet. However, today, I'm playing in 40 MPH winds and you can see the effect that it is having on passing. Long throws into the wind are virtually impossible. You can actually see the targeting circle move back towards the QB as the wind affects it, much like kickoffs in previous versions. Oregon's QB has had 3 of his long passes come up short because of the wind. Meanwhile, I just threw with the wind and you could tell it was overthrown secondary to wind, but Bush had the speed to actually catch up to it and go the distance :)

[General Mike]

This may be a bit off topic but does anyone use Sharkport anymore for uploading rosters? I switched computers since NCAA 2005 was out and now I'm trying to find the interface to download onto my new computer and I can't find it anywhere on the net.

Does anyone know where I can download it? Or if I can use the Sharkport hardware with a different interface? Me confused.

I know there's a site you can download the PC software from, but I cant remember the link now.

[mrsimperless]

Soft commitments are verbal commitments. Just like IRL someone who verbally commits can still change their mind, although they usually don't.

Hard commitments are actual signings. Although this is different from RL because players cannot sign until like Feb. or something. Unless of course you don't get hard commitments until the end of the year. I haven't made it through a season yet.

As far as not having enough points I think it works out fairly well. I of course targetted 12 prospects preseason, but after the first game it was obvious which ones I had a chance with and which ones I did not due to interest level. I ended up only seriously going after five guys after the first week. This allowed me to put enough points towards the players that they are actually influenced by them.

[DeToxRox]

Oh mannnnno.

#7 Michigan @ #2 Iowa

I am at halftime, playing in the freezing rain in a defensive stalemate. Greenway and Hodge (Iowa's studs at LB) have been terrorizing Mike Hart, holding him to 50 yards on 15 first half carries. Iowa's RB's haven't faired any better.

This game is 0-0 at the half. I love old school Big 10 football.

[mrsimperless]

One thing that I've noticed and really like is that the fatigue effect is noticable. White runs over the defense in the 4th quarter, but he isn't nearly as dominant if I use him in the 1st or 2nd quarters. So, right now my plan is to wear out the defense with Bush's speed in the first 3 quarters, and then plow over them in the 4th with White.

I agree, this is cool. I noticed it by using the matchup stick to see how far across the green bar is filled. If you do it before and after they are fatigured you'll notice that the bar goes down. I'm guessing this essentially means that their ratings drop as they fatigue. Nice little touch!

[Pumpy Tudors]

What sub-in/sub-out percentages should I use? I'm going to restart my Memphis dynasty when I get home in about 15 minutes, and I want to get a decent start. Also, should I crank up all of the penalties or just some of them? I'll probably jack 'em all up at first and then bring them down if holding or false starts happen too often, for instance.

[mrsimperless]

I have all penalties all the way up in my Miss dynasty and I've yet to see a holding or a false start after two games. In fact, there still aren't many penalties at all really. I've seen an offensive pass interference, a 5-yard face mask and two 15-yard face mask calls and thats it.

I think sub percentages were posted a page or two back.

[mrsimperless]

Dola. Some other observations:

I've had a lot of interceptions as well. I've had two user picks and probably 4 CPU (cpu controlled DBs on my team) picks in my two games. Two of those were taken to the house, including a 106 yarder that completely swung the momentum of one of my games.

Also, I had a 103 yard kickoff return for a touchdown and also a 64 yard punt return for a touchdown. Needless to say I've been dominating my games in the score department, but the yards have been pretty close for the most part.

I seem to by having quite a bit more success on kickoffs and running through the line by just using the directional pad and no other "helper" buttons. The "soft" juke has worked the best for me by far, and I love the little stutter juke! It hasn't been that effective yet, but it's very cool nonetheless.

[Bee]

DVDPlanet still doesn't show it has having been shipped yet... :mad:

weird, I already have mine from them.

[Eaglesfan27]

I have all penalties set to the highest setting. I've seen 1 holding, a few clipping, and a bunch of facemask penalties. I haven't seen anything else. Right now, I'm keeping all penalties maxed, but I might eventually drop the facemask penalty a bit.

As far as sub in/sub out, different people have different opinions. I like 70/85 or 75/90. I'm going with 70/85 right now.


Oregon did the best job of hanging with USC and it was good to play my first "B" team and see them remain semi-competitive, but we blew it open in the 4th quarter thanks to a bad interceptions by their QB.

[Greyroofoo]

I played my first race for the heismann game on varsity, I was playing Ohio State vs. Miami of Ohio

I won 72-0

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

Anyone seen a change of girlfriends in the picture>?

[DanGarion]

Anyone seen a change of girlfriends in the picture>?
Yes please answer this most important question! :D

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

first girl just looked like a 40 year old crack ho.

[Eaglesfan27]

I probably won't play RFTH until I start getting bored with my dynasty. I like recruiting too much to make RFTH a primary mode for me.

[DanGarion]

first girl just looked like a 40 year old crack ho.
So that's about the typical Big-12 girlfriend right?

[jbmagic]

you guys liking NCAA 2006 better than Madden 2005 so far?


i hope the running game on NCAA 2006 is in Madden 2006 when it comes out.

[illinifan999]

Anyone seen a change of girlfriends in the picture>?
I can't even figure out how to see it except for a brief second when I go to the computer screen.

[Greyroofoo]

you guys liking NCAA 2006 better than Madden 2005 so far?


i hope the running game on NCAA 2006 is in Madden 2006 when it comes out.

quite honestly i think I like Madden 2005 better, but I've only played a couple games so that opinion could change

[Neuqua]

Sigh.

My vow to not buy this game lasted all but 18 hours. Just ordered from dvdplanet.

[mrsimperless]

Sigh.

My vow to not buy this game lasted all but 18 hours. Just ordered from dvdplanet.

You know FOFC is evil. You've no one to blame but yourself.

My running total of "games bought due to FOFC hype" is well over a dozen now, I'm sure.

[Neuqua]

You know FOFC is evil. You've no one to blame but yourself.

My running total of "games bought due to FOFC hype" is well over a dozen now, I'm sure.

I don't know what I was thinking. Somehow over the past week I convinced myself that I could click on this thread and just admire those who did have the game but be strongwilled enough to not purchase it myself. I barely made it to page two before I busted out the credit card.

:(

[davidlando1]

Sigh.

My vow to not buy this game lasted all but 18 hours. Just ordered from dvdplanet.
LOL excellent

[LionsFan10]

So what's the final verdict? Yes, no, maybe so? Hold off until some good sliders come out ... I'm so itching to buy this game but I don't know if I can look past some scrub QB with some outstanding numbers.

Fellas?

[MizzouRah]

Oh mannnnno.

#7 Michigan @ #2 Iowa

I am at halftime, playing in the freezing rain in a defensive stalemate. Greenway and Hodge (Iowa's studs at LB) have been terrorizing Mike Hart, holding him to 50 yards on 15 first half carries. Iowa's RB's haven't faired any better.

This game is 0-0 at the half. I love old school Big 10 football.
Well, what happened? :)

[MizzouRah]

So what's the final verdict? Yes, no, maybe so? Hold off until some good sliders come out ... I'm so itching to buy this game but I don't know if I can look past some scrub QB with some outstanding numbers.

Fellas?
My verdict? Get it.

[MizzouRah]

I have all penalties set to the highest setting. I've seen 1 holding, a few clipping, and a bunch of facemask penalties. I haven't seen anything else. Right now, I'm keeping all penalties maxed, but I might eventually drop the facemask penalty a bit.

As far as sub in/sub out, different people have different opinions. I like 70/85 or 75/90. I'm going with 70/85 right now.


Oregon did the best job of hanging with USC and it was good to play my first "B" team and see them remain semi-competitive, but we blew it open in the 4th quarter thanks to a bad interceptions by their QB.
I'm kicking mine up to 75% out 85% in. As for penalties, all maxed out.

[mrsimperless]

What do the sub in/out settings actually do? Stuck at work right now daydreaming about the game... Hopefully this is something I can change while in the midst of a dynasty if it is important?

[Philliesfan980]

Just played my first "coach only" game tonight. Default AA, maxed out penalties. Won 35-7 , Penn State (myself) vs. USF. Good stuff so far.

[jbmagic]

What do the sub in/out settings actually do? Stuck at work right now daydreaming about the game... Hopefully this is something I can change while in the midst of a dynasty if it is important?


sub out will take your starting player out of the lineup when he has a certain fatigue %.

sub in will put the starting player back in the lineup when he has a certain fatigue % back


all depends on your setup.

[jbmagic]

for the people that deep into there dynasty,

how is The CPU with clock management at end of games for NCAA 2006?

[mrsimperless]

Haven't played a close game yet, but the cpu did a good job of conceding victory when they were down by 30+ with minutes to go. No timeouts and they subbed in all their backups (as did I). It was kinda weird not seeing a single impact player circle on the screen.

[Eaglesfan27]

So what's the final verdict? Yes, no, maybe so? Hold off until some good sliders come out ... I'm so itching to buy this game but I don't know if I can look past some scrub QB with some outstanding numbers.

Fellas?I'm not willing to declare it the greatest console football game ever. I'm not sure if I like it better than Madden 2005, yet. However, I'm sure that I like it very much right now. I can't remember any console football game that has ever kept me playing for 12 hours straight (with minor breaks to give my hands a rest as I'm taking now.) This game has been a blast for me today. I just had a close game against ASU and they have a stud linebacker that actually "held" Bush to just over 5.0 YPC :) They also became the first team to hold him under 100 yards. I think the team ratings and player ratings are very important in this game. Blowouts and "unrealistic" stats will occur when a strong team is playing a weak game. I no longer feel a bit guilty throwing the long ball because ASU defended that well too.

Oh yeah, I've had some dropped passes, but none of them have been too unrealistic, and it is certainly better than last year. I've been above 50% passing in every game so far (although barely in 2 of them.) My opposing QB has been over 50% in 4 of the games, and under 50% in 2 of them where my defensive line just absolutely terrorized them.

Edit: I'm playing on default All American and seeing good results. I do have all penalties maxed out and I finally saw a defensive interference call in my last game.

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

So what's the final verdict? Yes, no, maybe so? Hold off until some good sliders come out ... I'm so itching to buy this game but I don't know if I can look past some scrub QB with some outstanding numbers.

Fellas?
From the 2 games I played: Id hit it! :D

[Airhog]

well crap, I was planning on waiting. but getting it for 40$ at dvdplanet was an offer I couldnt pass up. Hopefully it will get here friday and I can play it all weekend long :D

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

I got the game for 29.99$ by trading in GT4, and Im happy.

[Neuqua]

Ok so now that I have to wait 5-10 days, who is going to do us all a favor and document a dynasty over at the dynasty forum?

Come on.. Come on!

[Eaglesfan27]

Ok so now that I have to wait 5-10 days, who is going to do us all a favor and document a dynasty over at the dynasty forum?

Come on.. Come on!
I think Pumpy said he was going to do a video dynasty?

[MizzouRah]

I'm not willing to declare it the greatest console football game ever. I'm not sure if I like it better than Madden 2005, yet. However, I'm sure that I like it very much right now. I can't remember any console football game that has ever kept me playing for 12 hours straight (with minor breaks to give my hands a rest as I'm taking now.) This game has been a blast for me today. I just had a close game against ASU and they have a stud linebacker that actually "held" Bush to just over 5.0 YPC :) They also became the first team to hold him under 100 yards. I think the team ratings and player ratings are very important in this game. Blowouts and "unrealistic" stats will occur when a strong team is playing a weak game. I no longer feel a bit guilty throwing the long ball because ASU defended that well too.

Oh yeah, I've had some dropped passes, but none of them have been too unrealistic, and it is certainly better than last year. I've been above 50% passing in every game so far (although barely in 2 of them.) My opposing QB has been over 50% in 4 of the games, and under 50% in 2 of them where my defensive line just absolutely terrorized them.

Edit: I'm playing on default All American and seeing good results. I do have all penalties maxed out and I finally saw a defensive interference call in my last game.
I agree EF. I'm not quite up to the task of #3 Texas tonight.. the fair was tonight and I'm a bit tipsy.. don't want to attempt a game vs Texas.. especially since several key recruits are watching this game closely.

I love this game.

[Eaglesfan27]

Well, in my most recent game I was seeing "too many" dropped passes. So, I decided to up the slider for both CPU and Human just 10% (2 notches.) Now, in the second half, I haven't seen even one dropped pass where the guy wasn't slammed into right as he was trying to catch it.

Therefore, I think the good news is that IF you think there are too many dropped passes, sliders should help fix the problem. They seem much more responsive this year :)


Edit: I'm playing my first game with a recruit attending. It is very exciting :)

[Suicane75]

I almost bought this from DVDPlanet last week but decided to wait, stupid me. Just ordered tonight, hope it arrives by Friday.

[MizzouRah]

I almost bought this from DVDPlanet last week but decided to wait, stupid me. Just ordered tonight, hope it arrives by Friday.
Of all people, I would have thought you had it already and were on vacation or something. :D

[Suicane75]

Of all people, I would have thought you had it already and were on vacation or something. :D
I broke out 2004 last weekend and said to myself "why spend $50 when im having fun with this". But online play was just too big a lure.

[Pumpy Tudors]

I'll get the video going for my next game against UT-Chattanooga, which I'll play tomorrow evening. I got blown out by Ole Miss, 76-44. I'm glad that didn't get recorded on video. :(

[Eaglesfan27]

After bumping the WR catch sliders up those 2 notches, I only saw 1 wide open dropped pass in the 2nd half from either side. We beat Arizona 42-16 and I got my first soft verbal committment from the recruit that was at the game! I'm so excited, but I have to go to sleep due to work tomorrow :(

[mrsimperless]

I just beat Vandy 77-7 with Ole Miss and default AA sliders. I put my backups in at halftime, and my crappy O-line still threw their defensive front starters around like ragdolls. Hmmm, maybe a slider tweak is needed at this point as these teams should've been fairly evenly matched and Vandy was at home.

[Its Vanilla]

I simmed a season in the RFTH mode, just to see what happens. I was a pocket QB for Boston College.

The girlfriends get much hotter as you go along. Also, sophomore year's dorm room is much nicer than freshman years.

[CHEMICAL SOLDIER]

Just finished my 3rd game, with WSU and Oregon. I lost to WSU 24-19 in the 4th. It seems that my team lost momentum in the second half. With receivers dropping passes,ai sniffing out my different running schemes and my rb suffering fumblitis. A fun game at outzen stadium anyways. The glaring thingwas my rbs fumbling 4 x and qb throwing an errant pass for int with 2 min to go on a potential game winning drive. It seems also that the ai teams rb is pretty strong and gets passed a mass of dls and my whole secondary.
One thing is for sure though, this game is the most fun NCAA Football since 2000!!!!

[TroyF]

I started a dynasty with the Buffs and played one game. Default AA sliders, penalties maxed out, save face masks, which were put halfway.

The game was a blast. Charles and Vickers pounded the ball well against the Rams. Charles had 29 carries for 145. Vickers had 11 carries for 88 yards. Klatt went 11-22 for 185 yards, 1 TD and 2 INT. (both were deserved) For the Rams, Holland went 15-35, but he was getting abused all game. I sacked him 5 times and pressured him another 14. The game was 9-6 CSU going into the fourth quarter.

I had a long drive capped by a short TD run. CSU then threw a long TD pass to go back up 16-13. That's where it ended for them. On the next drive, Klatt hit Kloppenstien (the TE) for a 38 yard TD pass. Hit the seem perfectly. Holland was sacked and fumbled the ball on the first play after the kickoff. Vickers ran it in from 20 to pretty much seal the deal.

I added a cheap TD late after CSU gave it up on downs inside the twenty.

All in all, I had one heck of a fun game. I think this is a keeper. :)

[TroyF]

Dola,

I played 8 minute quarters and there were 9 penalties in the game:

3 holding penaltied (all on CSU)
1 clipping penalty on a punt return
2 procedure penalties (both on me)
2 pass interference penalties (one on each side, mine was actually me controlling the LB. I got burned by the TE and I kept bumping him all the way up the field)
1 Face Mask.

Sounds like 9 in a game is a bit of an aberation here. We'll see how things go from this point forth.

[kingnebwsu]

I haven't played NCAA for a while...and I'm still using the ESPN football control scheme (oops). I did a bit better as Ohio State vs Miami (OH) and won going away 45-19. I was down 19-10 until I hit a 4th-down hail mary 80 yard TD pass with only 3 minutes left! I stopped them on D, then got the ball back and scored. I then ran up the score with Troy Smith and my RB Heisman guy. I only got like 70 yds and 2 TD though :(

All this on Varsity!!! :p

(Shrug) we'll see how it holds up.

Any crappy players can play me on XBL. KingNeb is my GT on there. PM me with a time you'll be on :)

[korme]

I'm not willing to declare it the greatest console football game ever. I'm not sure if I like it better than Madden 2005, yet. However, I'm sure that I like it very much right now. I can't remember any console football game that has ever kept me playing for 12 hours straight (with minor breaks to give my hands a rest as I'm taking now.) This game has been a blast for me today. I just had a close game against ASU and they have a stud linebacker that actually "held" Bush to just over 5.0 YPC :) They also became the first team to hold him under 100 yards. I think the team ratings and player ratings are very important in this game. Blowouts and "unrealistic" stats will occur when a strong team is playing a weak game. I no longer feel a bit guilty throwing the long ball because ASU defended that well too.

Oh yeah, I've had some dropped passes, but none of them have been too unrealistic, and it is certainly better than last year. I've been above 50% passing in every game so far (although barely in 2 of them.) My opposing QB has been over 50% in 4 of the games, and under 50% in 2 of them where my defensive line just absolutely terrorized them.

Edit: I'm playing on default All American and seeing good results. I do have all penalties maxed out and I finally saw a defensive interference call in my last game.
I concur. I got the game around 3PM with my buddy still at my house from the night before. It's 5AM, and he just left. We completed an entire season of Bearcats football on 5min quarters. He was the opponents, and my Cats finished a paltry 4-7. Ouch! http://dynamic.gamespy.com/%7Efof/forums/images/smilies/tongue.gif

[TargetPractice6]

I really like the game so far.

Anybody else having as much trouble kicking as I am? UK's kicker is rated 80 but I'm still having lots of trouble with the accuracy part. I just missed two extra points in a game, and kicked it out of bounds numerous times on kickoffs. I'm just not used to the meter in the game. As I've probably mentioned before the last NCAA game I played was 2002 and the last Madden was 2004, and the kicking meter isn't like either of those two games. When press X to stop the power meter, I think the bar disappears or something and there is a delay in it coming back down. So I usually stop the accuracy part way too early, or if I try to wait on it usually it's too late.

[wade moore]

Do small schools like Cornell still have generic stadiums?
Someone may have answered this already, but William and Mary definately has a generic stadium...