Nfl Head Coach 09 Prima Official Eguide

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Created by Kaizen Media Group

Producer: Howard Grossman Author/Designer: Nelson Taruc Copy Editor: KMG & Prima Staff Prima Games An Imprint of Random House, Inc. 3000 Lava Ridge Court, Suite 100 Roseville, CA 95661 www.primagames.com

The Prima Games logo is a registered trademark of Random House, Inc., registered in the United States and other countries. Primagames.com is a registered trademark of Random House, Inc., registered in the United States. Prima Games is an imprint of Random House, Inc. © 2008 Electronic Arts Inc. All Rights Reserved. EA, EA SPORTS and the EA SPORTS logo are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. All Rights Reserved. © 2008 NFL Properties LLC. Team names/logos are trademarks of the teams indicated. All other NFL-related are of the National Football League Officially Licensed Product of the NFL PLAYERS Visit WWW.NFLPLAYERS.COM All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage or retrieval system without written permission from Electronic Arts Inc. Senior Product Manager: Donato Tica Associate Product Manager: John Browning Manufacturing: Stephanie Sanchez Digital Product Manager: Lex Scheuble A very special thanks to: Jerrold Smith, Josh Looman, Donny Moore, Lorraine Honrada, and Daniel Davis Please be advised that the ESRB Ratings icons, “EC,” “E,” “E10+,” “T,” “M,” “AO,” and “RP” are trademarks owned by the Entertainment Software Association, and may only be used with their permission and authority. For information regarding whether a product has been rated by the ESRB, please visit www.esrb.org. For permission to use the Ratings icons, please contact the ESA at esrblicenseinfo.com. Important: Prima Games has made every effort to determine that the information contained in this book is accurate. However, the publisher makes no warranty, either expressed or implied, as to the accuracy, effectiveness, or completeness of the material in this book; nor does the publisher assume liability for damages, either incidental or consequential, that may result from using the information in this book. The publisher cannot provide any additional information or support regarding gameplay, hints and strategies, or problems with hardware or software. Such questions should be directed to the support numbers provided by the game and/or device manufacturers as set forth in their documentation. Some game tricks require precise timing and may require repeated attempts before the desired result is achieved. ISBN: 978-0-7615-5959-7 Printed in the United States of America

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WELCOME, COACH… NFL Head Coach 09 is a unique and complete NFL experience that gives you the power to make decisions that define your coaching career and the fate of your chosen franchise. With strategic game planning features, NFL Head Coach 09 places you in the coach’s seat: You can scout opponents, build playbooks, make trades, select draft picks, and develop a team that adapts to your franchise’s philosophy and goals. You rule the sideline in NFL Head Coach 09: You can call plays, make adjustments and tweak your game plan as events occur in real-time. You can travel in the footsteps of your favorite NFL coach, or start your career from scratch with your own look, personality

and philosophy. “In NFL Head Coach 09, the gamer has complete control of their franchise’s destiny,” says NFL Head Coach 09 Executive Producer Jeremy Strauser. “From draft day to game day, the gamers’ decisions impact their team’s success and make or break a team’s road to the Super Bowl.” The challenge will be immense, and the road to glory will be long and arduous—but if you have what it takes, you can build the ultimate NFL dynasty and forge your legacy as one of the greatest to ever roam the sidelines. Fortunately, you’ve already taken a major step toward that goal: This guide provides everything you’ll need to master NFL Head Coach 09.

ON THE COVER: TONY DUNGY Dungy is one of the NFL’s mostrespected coaches. In 2007, he became the first African-American coach to win a Super Bowl when the Indianapolis Colts beat the Chicago Bears in Super Bowl XLI. Since Dungy’s arrival in 2001, the Colts have had six playoff berths and have won more than 70 regular-season games. Dungy has tallied an impressive .661 winning percentage over the past 12 seasons.

WHAT’S NEW FOR 2009 For those who’ve played the previous installment of NFL Head Coach, you’ll quickly find out that this game will be a completely different experience.

Team Campuses: Each of the 32 NFL teams has their own campus, stadium and practice field. The weather will change from day to day, and you’ll be able to “travel” to different campuses for your away games.

Everything from the game interface to the artificial intelligence has been completely rebuilt—and it’s showcased with some of the most realistic graphics

Coach Clipboard: NFL Head Coach 09 features a brand new interface which you use to handle every new event that pops up while coaching. You can toggle a number of other menus via the Clipboard.

ever seen in a next-gen football title. The following screen shots illustrate some of the most important new features you’ll find in NFL Head Coach 09:

Career Starting Point: One of the biggest new features for draft die-hards is the ability to start your coaching career during the 2008 off-season. Don’t like who your team drafted or traded for this year? You can now go “back in time” and rewrite history.

Approval Rating: This is the primary measure of your coaching success (or struggle), and it can affect everything from the game’s difficulty to your job security. Your actions on and off the field can increase or decrease your rating. Be careful: If it drops too low, you could lose your job!

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In the 1950s, some football teams tried using clear plastic bands rather than metal bars for face masks. The plastic broke too easily to be used in NFL games, and the idea was eventually scrapped.

Play Creator: Not only can you edit your playbook and create new plays, but you can even adjust them during a game. Newly created plays can be uploaded to EA SPORTS GamerNet or exported to Madden 09—keeping the game fresh for many seasons to come. NFL 09

CPU-Initiated Trades: Watch the CPU try to trade with not just you but other CPU-controlled teams as well.

The Clock is Ticking: Every coaching event—whether it’s a trade or free agency bid—occurs live with a countdown timer. This will put even more pressure on your decisions, and if you wait too long, that trade opportunity of a lifetime may be gone forever…

Expanded Rosters and Cut Days: Teams can have 75 roster players during the offseason, but cut days will trim that number down.

ASK EA SPORTS How new are the various features in NFL Head Coach 09? and Tear Injury System: Keep track of your 9 Wear players’ health and decide who to rest and who to keep on the field. When a player gets hit, he’ll lose health points off the part of the body that was impacted. Lose too many points, and your player will get injured.

Subs and Play Edits: You can change the 10 Quick complexion of any play with a quick substitution. This is a great way to sub in your superstar players (i.e. put your speedy wide receiver in the backfield) for key plays. You can also edit plays while on the sidelines.

Nothing is carried over from the previous NFL Head Coach. The gameplay engine we’re using is a tweaked version of Madden’s, but all of the logic and features have been rewritten from scratch. The new logic doesn’t contain any code from Madden Franchise Mode or the previous NFL Head Coach.

The NFL Network: You’ll receive breaking news on trades, draft prospects and much more via special NFL Network broadcasts featuring Adam Schefter.

INTRODUCTION

The NFL Draft: You’ll wield the same type of power that pro coaches have when it comes to the draft. You’ll develop your draft board, trade up or down, and scout from a pool of more than 21,000 unique prospects.

We had a brand new design team this year that worked on other games previously, so we really didn’t intend to carry much over from the first game.

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GAME CONTROLS Filter Toggle Option Pause

Filter Toggle Option Pause Timeout (In-Game)

Timeout (In-Game)

None Back Advance Sort

Navigate

None Back Advance Sort

Navigate

Player/ Staff Card

Player/Staff Card

PLAYSTATION® 3

XBOX 360™

GAME SETTINGS Before you start playing, you might want to explore and/or change some of the game’s main settings. Access them from the main menu by going to My Coach > Settings (or pause a game in progress). Game settings include: My Favorite Team: Select the team campus that appears when you first start up the game, as well as the default team when selecting “Coach Now” or starting a new career. Game Controls: This shows you a map of the game controls. Game AI: Increase or decrease AI settings for both the CPU and player. Use the LT button (L2 on PS3) to toggle between categories; use the RT button (R2 on PS3) to toggle between the CPU and player. The default is 50, but you can adjust each setting from 0 to 100. AI settings on offense: • QB Accuracy • Pass Blocking • WR Catching • RB Ability • Run Blocking AI settings on defense: • Awareness • Knock Downs • Interceptions • Break Block • Tackling

Many options can be tweaked during a game in progress. However, you cannot adjust the quarter length or turn the play clock on or off, so make sure to adjust those settings before starting a game.

AI settings on special teams: • FG Power • FG Accuracy • Punt Power • Punt Accuracy • Kickoff Power In general, you won’t need to mess with the AI settings unless you want to make the game easier or harder. Game Rules: This lets you change the quarter length (default is 15 minutes), turn the play clock on (default) or off, and adjust the frequency of penalties called. Beginners might want the play clock off to have more time to call plays and make play adjustments. For penalties, you can increase or

decrease how often they’re called by the referees. The default setting is 50, but you can adjust it from 0 to 100. The penalties include: • Offside • False Start • Holding • Facemask • Offensive Pass Interference • Defensive Pass Interference • Kick/Punt Return Interference • Clipping • Intentional Grounding • Roughing Passer • Roughing Kicker General Options: Enable or disable Auto Save (default is disabled), or activate or reset Popup Help. After your first season, turn off Popup Help. Video Calibration: This lets you optimize the contrast on your screen. Volume: This modifies the volume of the various audio game effects. For the master volume, the default is 100, and for the individual effects, the default is 90. You can adjust the volume from 0 (completely silent) to 100. Coach Clipboard: When playing a game, you can choose which events to deal with, and which to delegate. This is a crucial part of the game, so we’ll go into more detail later in this guide.

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‘So often you get to that point where you think, ‘We have to change, we have to do something different, we have to create a different way of life,’ but how we’ve won is by building on what we do and not getting bored with that. If we do that, I think we’ll be in good shape.’ —Tony Dungy on his outlook for the 2008 Colts season

COACH CAREER STARTING YOUR CAREER

COACH SKILLS

STARTING POINT

COACH CLIPBOARD

ON THE SIDELINES

APPROVAL RATING

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STARTING YOUR CAREER You have two options when starting an NFL coaching career: Play as an existing coach or create a new coach. Most gamers will likely opt to create a coach so that they can control how their skills develop.

NEW text. CAREER

PERSONALITY: COMMANDER text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

Mike Shanahan of the Denver Broncos has a Commander personality.

THE FIRST STEPS

The most important decision you’ll make is which team you want to coach. Use the NFL team profiles in the back of this guide to check out how good the current staff is, and how deep your roster is stocked with talent. A first-time gamer might want to choose a team already in great shape (such as the Patriots or Colts) to make the difficulty factor a bit less severe. However, your best bet is to choose either a team you like best or a team you’re very familiar with. If you’re creating a new coach, at the Coach Name screen, type in your coach’s first and last name, then choose an appearance.

SELECTING A PERSONALITY text. HOW OTHERS WILL PERCEIVE YOU

At the Personality screen, select your coach’s personality. This is important because your personality will determine how other CPU-controlled parties (i.e. players, coaching staff and other teams) will measure you up and react to your decisions. It’s also important if you ever decide to simulate any portion of your season or offseason: the CPU will base its simulation on your personality type. With that in mind, choose a personality that most closely matches how you expect to manage your team. There is no statistical advantage choosing one personality over another as long as the decisions that you make on and off the field are generally consistent with your personality type. There are 17 personality types; each personality comprises 10 personality traits. Some traits are shared by more than one personality type. The coaching personality types to choose from are on the next several pages:

The Commander is a driven individual that is team-oriented, dependable and willing to take charge. Five current NFL head coaches have this personality—the most of any personality type. Personality traits include: • Driven: Strives to be one of the best ever in the NFL. Tireless work ethic. • Loyal: Tends to have a connection with his team. Would rather stay than go. • Realistic: Knows to take the good with the bad. Doesn’t expect perfection. • Consistent: Rarely exhibits surprises in his demeanor or actions. • Dependable: Rarely exhibits behavior that is unexpected. • Problem Solver: Quick on his feet. Can analyze a problem and come up with a solution quickly. • Patient: Willing to wait on a decision. Doesn’t expect issues to be resolved immediately. • Structured: Very rigid about his situations. Expects them to go as planned. • Competitive: Winning is the goal always at the forefront. Doesn’t like to be shown up. • Shrewd: Very adept negotiator. Gets what he wants or walks away.

The maximum number of seasons you can coach in a career is 15.

If you plan to take control of an existing NFL head coach, here are a few tidbits from the developers: Bengals: Coach Marvin Lewis will have lots to deal with. First, he’ll have to find out how to handle wide receiver Chad Johnson, who is not happy in Cincinnati and may ask for a new deal—without one, he may sit out training camp. On the plus side, you have the best trainer in the NFL, who’ll be a big asset through your career. Patriots: If there were an easy mode in the game, taking control of this team would be it. You’ll have the best GM in the game as well as a talented roster and staff at your command. However, all that power comes at a price: Anything short of a Super Bowl win will be a disappointment. Ravens: Rookie coach John Harbaugh has potential to be good across the board; build him up as his career unfolds. Saints: Coach Sean Payton has one of the best QB coaches in the game. Pete Carmichael Jr. helped developed Drew Brees—so don’t be surprised to see other teams try to hire him in the off-season for an offensive coordinator position.

If you’re creating a new coach, there’ll be more than 160 different appearances to choose from.

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In play diagrams, offensive players are usually marked by circles, and defensive players marked as upside-down triangles or Xs.

PERSONALITY: SUPER STAR text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

PERSONALITY: TRADITIONALIST text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

Herman Edwards of the Kansas City Chiefs has a Super Star personality.

The Super Star is a highly ambitious perfectionist who knows he’s one of the best, and lets everyone else know it too. Two current NFL coaches have this personality. Personality traits include: • Driven (see Commander) • Calculating: Not always on the same page as the rest of the team. Looks for opportunities to self-promote. • Competitive (see Commander) • Dramatic: Tends to overreact in most situations. Can become a distraction. • Perfectionist: Expects everything to be perfect and every situation to go right. • Self Focused: Cares about himself and that’s about it. Feels like the world revolves around him. • Materialistic: Wants the most regardless of the situation. Unwilling to make concessions. • Loyal (see Commander) • Flexible: Rolls with the punches. Doesn’t tend to overreact. • Problem Solver (see Commander)

Rod Marinelli of the Detroit Lions has a Traditionalist personality.

The Traditionalist is a well-rounded individual who doesn’t need to be the center of attention, but who loves to compete. One current NFL head coach has this personality. Personality traits include: • Team Player: Only cares about the team. Willing to help in any way, including pay cuts. • Likes Rules: Appreciates knowing that everything is under control. • Well Rounded: Has many interests outside of football. Can leave the game to pursue them at any time. • Loyal (see Commander) • Level Headed: Understands the big picture and that the NFL is a business. Willing to accept his role. • Structured (see Commander) • Competitive (see Commander) • Dependable (see Commander) • Values Tradition: Prefers tradition over change. Has a hard time accepting new leadership. • Thrifty: Conscientious in financial matters. Tries to save the team money at all costs.

The advantage of using an existing coach is that you start off with higher attributes and some developed skill sets, depending on the coach you select. However, you may be limiting your potential growth.

COACH CAREER

PERSONALITY: LOYALIST text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

Ken Whisenhunt of the Arizona Cardinals has a Loyalist personality.

The Loyalist is the definitive team player who enjoys structure and trusts the decisions of his superiors implicitly. One current NFL head coach has this personality. Personality traits include: • Dependable (see Commander) • Aggressive: Appreciates aggressive decisions by the head coach. Tough negotiators who rarely budge from their demands. • Structured (see Commander) • Energetic: Lives in the moment. Loves big decisions made in drastic situations. • Impulsive: Makes decisions in the spur of the moment. Hard to get a read on him. • Loyal (see Commander) • Trusting: Believes that everyone around him is doing the right thing. • Values Tradition (see Traditionalist) • Team Player (see Traditionalist) • Impatient: Doesn’t appreciate waiting. Wants issues resolved immediately.

Although there is no user-editable difficulty setting, the team you select will play a major role into how difficult it’ll be to win games in your first season. Look at the Difficulty rating for each team.

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STARTING YOUR CAREER PERSONALITY: GURU KEY ATTRIBUTES

Norv Turner of the San Diego Chargers has a Guru personality.

The Guru is a humble, conservative person who doesn’t say much, but commands attention when he does. Four current NFL head coaches have this personality. Personality traits include: • Humble: Understands that he is a piece of the puzzle. Willing to take less for the greater good. • Generous: Tends to give up too much in negotiations. • Conservative: Appreciates safe decisions by the head coach. Doesn’t like outbursts of public spectacles. • Contented: Generally comfortable as a whole. Doesn’t require much special attention. • Team Player (see Traditionalist) • Reserved: Stays quiet about how he feels. Doesn’t tip his hand. • Level Headed (see Traditionalist) • Intimidated: Tends to back down in confrontations or tough negotiations. • Skeptical: Takes a while to trust those around him. • Values Tradition (see Traditionalist)

PERSONALITY: LONE WOLF text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

The Lone Wolf is an ambitious yet solitary person who enjoys change and will listen to anyone if the price is right. No current NFL head coaches have this personality. Personality traits include: • Enterprising: Focused on improving self image and worth. Focused on financial aspects. • Ambitious: Constantly looking for a better job or to sign with another team. • Well Rounded (see Traditionalist) • Laid Back: Takes everything in stride. Rarely overreacts in situations. • Efficient: Prefers to make conservative decisions financially. • Likes Change: Prefers a chaotic environment to work in. • Stingy: Unwilling to give up more than the minimum. Always looking to save money. • Patient: Willing to wait on a decision. Doesn’t expect issues to be resolved immediately. • Realistic (see Commander) • Level Headed (see Traditionalist)

PERSONALITY: AMBASSADOR text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

Dick Jauron of the Buffalo Bills has an Ambassador personality.

The Ambassador is a conservative team player who is uncompromising in his beliefs, but is willing to listen and cooperate. One current NFL head coach has this personality. Personality traits include: • Expressive: Never shy about his opinion. Takes issues public when ignored. • Reserved (see Guru) • Team Player (see Traditionalist) • Conservative (see Guru) • Realistic (see Commander) • Cooperative: Willing to help out in any situation. Rarely demands or disagrees. • Trusting (see Loyalist) • Calculating (see Super Star) • Uncompromising: Won’t budge once his mind is made up. Hard to deal with in negotiations. • Opinionated: Never shy about his outlook. Wants the world to know how he feels.

COACH NOW Still not sure which team to choose? Want to learn basic game mechanics? Coach Now is a great way to do both. In this mode, you can quickly start a game against the CPU. The Team Select screen will show both coaches’ overall ratings as well as their teams’ overall, offense and defense ratings. You can also press the LT button (R2 on the PS3) to select a team at random. After teams are selected, you can

choose what stadium to play in (the default is the home team). Note that in stadiums with retractable domes, you can play with the dome open or closed. You can also opt to play at the site of the Pro Bowl in Hawaii. Given the one-time-only nature of a Coaching Now game, you might be wondering what it can offer. For beginners, it’s a great way to “test drive” a team to find out how well you like the level of talent and playbooks. For

advanced players, it’s a great way to scout out and simulate another CPU team’s playcall preferences. (However, as the seasons progress and teams evolve over time, the usefulness of this tactic will diminish.) The process of playing a Coach Now game is similar to those in career mode, so we’ll cover the actual play mechanics later in this section.

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The origins of the “tradition” in which the winning coach gets a bucket of liquid and ice dumped on him in celebration dates back to Super Bowl XXI.

PERSONALITY: PROMOTER text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

PERSONALITY: HEADLINER text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

Mike Tomlin of the Pittsburgh Steelers has a Promoter personality.

The Promoter is a shrewd and enterprising individual who is flexible in dealings, but whose loyalty must be earned. Two current NFL head coaches have this personality. Personality traits include: • Calculating (see Super Star) • Opinionated (see Ambassador) • Impatient (see Loyalist) • Enterprising (see Lone Wolf) • Shrewd (see Commander) • Flexible (see Super Star) • Trusting (see Loyalist) • Loyal (see Commander) • Dramatic (see Super Star) • Thrifty (see Traditionalist)

Every figure in the game has a personality type: players, other coaches—even team owners. Personalities are a pivotal factor when it comes to trade and contract negotiations as well as Emotional Reactions.

Jon Gruden of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has a Headliner personality.

The Headliner is an energetic and spontaneous person who is a natural in the spotlight when the pressure is on. One current NFL head coach has this personality. Personality traits include: • Expressive (see Ambassador) • Dramatic (see Promoter) • Spontaneous: Loves to change it up from time to time. • Ambitious (see Lone Wolf) • Impulsive (see Loyalist) • Likes Change: Prefers a chaotic environment to work in. • Reckless: Has been known to make rash decisions. • Energetic (see Loyalist) • Optimistic: Tends to look on the bright side, no matter how bleak the situation. • Passive: Can be bullied easily in pressure situations like negotiations. Tends to cave when pushed.

The default teams that appear in Coach Now are your favorite team and your favorite team’s top rival. (For instance, if your favorite team is the Bears, your top rival will be the Packers).

COACH CAREER

PERSONALITY: CAPTAIN text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

Mike McCarthy of the Green Bay Packers has a Captain personality.

The Captain is a strong and talented leader as well as a cooperative and consistent member of the team. Three current NFL head coaches have this personality. Personality traits include: • Cooperative (see Ambassador) • Consistent (see Commander) • Competitive (see Commander) • Team Player (see Traditionalist) • Patient (see Commander) • Aggressive (see Loyalist) • Loyal (see Commander) • Sensitive: Tends to take things personally and reacts to situations in that manner. • Insecure: Lacks confidence. Worries about what the fans and media think too much. • Structured (see Commander)

Other Coach Now options include uniform colors, stadium, playbooks used, weather conditions and the game time. Poor weather can degrade your passing and kicking game (especially if windy).

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STARTING YOUR CAREER PERSONALITY: ANALYST text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

PERSONALITY: ENTHUSIAST text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

Lane Kiffin of the Oakland Raiders has an Analyst personality.

The Analyst is a highly logical and skeptical problem-solver who tends to keep to himself in most situations. Two current NFL head coaches have this personality. Personality traits include: • Problem Solver (see Commander) • Dependable (see Commander) • Passive (see Headliner) • Perfectionist (see Super Star) • Indifferent: Really isn’t concerned about what anybody else things. Rarely reacts to any situation. • Cautious: Very conservative in negotiations. • Patient (see Commander) • Insecure (see Captain) • Skeptical: Takes a while to trust those around him. • Structured (see Commander)

John Harbaugh of the Baltimore Ravens has an Enthusiast personality.

The Enthusiast is an optimistic and expressive person who loves to be a part of a group. One current NFL head coach has this personality. Personality traits include: • Opinionated: Never shy about his outlook. Wants the world to know how he feels. • Cooperative (see Ambassador) • Loyal (see Commander) • Trusting (see Loyalist) • Sensitive (see Enthusiast) • Optimistic: Tends to look on the bright side, no matter how bleak the situation. • Insecure (see Captain) • Energetic: Lives in the moment. Loves big decisions made in drastic situations. • Dramatic (see Super Star) • Expressive (see Ambassador)

PERSONALITY: STOIC text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

Andy Reid of the Philadelphia Eagles has an Stoic personality.

The Stoic is a wise and patient individual who seems emotionless at times, but that is sensitive to changes. Three current NFL head coaches have this personality. Personality traits include: • Conservative (see Guru) • Humble (see Guru) • Realistic (see Commander) • Contented (see Contented) • Problem Solver (see Commander) • Patient (see Commander) • Level Headed (see Traditionalist) • Shrewd (see Commander) • Sensitive (see Captain) • Uncompromising (see Ambassador)

THE MAIN MENU Once you’ve set up the start of your coaching career, you’ll be tempted to jump right into the game. However, before you do that, you might want to review some other main menu options: • Resume Career: This appears after you have at least one saved career. This is a shortcut to your Quicksave game save. • Coach Now: As previously discussed earlier in this section, this lets you coach a game against the CPU with any two NFL teams. • Xbox Live (Xbox 360 version only): This lets you connect to XBox Live if you have an account and online access. Your options here include: Quick Match (Ranked or Unranked)

Custom Match Create Session Lobby Leaderboards Online Coach (includes access to My Career, EA SPORTS™ Nation, Online Settings and Update Rosters) • My Coach: View and edit playbooks and rosters; adjust game settings; view Hall of Fame coaches and manage files. This is also where you can create/edit/export individual plays and access EA SPORTS™ GamerNet. • Media World: View NFL news or other sports news (requires online connection), watch videos of upcoming EA SPORTS titles, or look through a list of NFL Head Coach 09 game credits.

EA SPORTS™ GamerNet allows you to go online and download plays other people have created. You can also upload your plays to GamerNet so that people can rate them and download them. If you’re not interested in creating plays yourself, you can always download other gamers’ plays and add them to your playbook. Plays you design can also be transferred to Madden NFL 09.

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Although it’s never seen in today’s games, NFL rules permit the home team to place both teams’ benches on the same side of the field. The other side of the field would be reserved for the chain crew and linesmen.

PERSONALITY: ANCHOR text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

PERSONALITY: TITAN text. KEY ATTRIBUTES

Tony Dungy of the Indianapolis Colts has an Anchor personality.

The Anchor is a very relaxed individual who is as patient and dependable as they come. Three current NFL head coaches have this personality. • Patient (see Commander) • Humble (see Guru) • Passive (see Headliner) • Indifferent (see Analyst) • Contented: Generally comfortable as a whole. Doesn’t require much special attention. • Laid Back: Takes everything in stride. Rarely overreacts in situations. • Reserved: Stays quiet about how he feels. Doesn’t tip his hand. • Stubborn: Refuses to budge in many situations. • Values Tradition (see Traditionalist) • Cautious (see Analyst)

The Titan is a tough-as-nails player whose joy in life comes from crushing the competition. Two current NFL head coaches have this personality. Personality traits include: • Aggressive (see Loyalist) • Competitive (see Commander) • Reckless: Has been known to make rash decisions. • Energetic (see Loyalist) • Self Focused (see Super Star) • Indecisive: Has a hard time committing to a direction. Changes his mind often. • Ambitious (see Headliner) • Team Player (see Traditionalist) • Generous: Tends to give up too much in negotiations. • Flexible (see Super Star)

KEY ATTRIBUTES

COACH CAREER

KEY ATTRIBUTES

Marvin Lewis of the Cincinnati Bengals has a Titan personality.

PERSONALITY: VIRTUOSO text.

Pay attention to your players’ personality traits. You can find these by accessing their player card from the Roster screen, then filtering over to Personality. Player Personality Traits affect everything from Defining Moments and Emotional Reactions to how a player responds when you draft a player in the 1st round as his replacement.

PERSONALITY: ALLY text.

A Virtuoso is a talented and dramatic person who makes even the most difficult task seem like a walk in the park. No current NFL head coaches have this personality. Personality traits include: • Likes Change (see Headliner) • Flexible (see Super Star) • Sensitive (see Headliner) • Spontaneous: Loves to change it up from time to time. • Dramatic (see Promoter) • Passive (see Captain) • Impulsive (see Loyalist) • Intimidated (see Guru) • Generous (see Guru) • Well Rounded (see Traditionalist)

Scott Linehan of the St. Louis Rams has an Ally personality.

The Ally is a loyal and dependable team player who can fit in wherever he goes. One current NFL head coach has this personality: Scott Linehan of the St. Louis Rams. Personality traits include: • Likes Rules: Appreciates knowing that everything is under control. • Trusting (see Loyalist) • Competitive (see Commander) • Loyal (see Commander) • Dependable (see Commander) • Efficient: Prefers to make conservative decisions financially. • Consistent (see Commander) • Sensitive: Tends to take things personally and reacts to situations in that manner. • Insecure: Lacks confidence. Worries about what the fans and media think too much. • Values Tradition (see Traditionalist)

COACH SKILLS

CHOOSING YOUR FIRST SKILLS

While an existing head coach has all his skills predefined, a new head coach starts off with no overall skills nor any special skills. You’ll have 25,000 points available to build up your skills to your liking. The next section has a full breakdown of skills, special skills and strategies for building them.

If a player has the Optimistic personality trait, there’s a chance he’ll decide to re-work his contract during the year to save the team cap room.

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COACH SKILLS There are two types of skills, the first being Coach Skills. Think of them as skills that cover the basics. A new head coach starts off with Level 1 skills in all categories, but you can build each one to Level 5. Unless otherwise, noted, here’s how many points it takes to build up each skill: • Level 2: 2,000 points • Level 3: 3,500 additional points • Level 4: 5,000 additional points • Level 5: 10,000 additional points Here are the various skill categories: Team Chemistry Head Coach Defines a coach’s ability to add innovative and effective plays to the team’s playbooks. If you plan on editing your playbook or tweaking plays during a game, this skill level should be raised. Play Call Head Coach Defines how good a coach is at calling plays. If you plan on letting the CPU take care of your play calls, this skill level should be raised.

Warning: Any skills purchased are permanent and cannot be changed later. If you make a mistake, you must restart the game.

Strategy Head Coach Defines a coach’s ability to make worthwhile adjustments and suggestions on game day. Performance Head Coach A greater performance skill generally improves the gameplay success rates of all players that report to this coach. This is arguably the most important basic coaching skill—making your players better—so there is a premium in terms of points you need to spend to increase your skill level: • Level 2: 3,000 points • Level 3: 5,000 additional points • Level 4: 7,500 additional points • Level 5: 10,000 additional points

Physical Development Head Coach Defines how effectively this coach will assist in developing physical attributes for their players. This skill is position specific, so you’ll find separate skills for these positions: QB, RB, WR, TE, OL, DL, LB, DB, K and P. Intangibles Development Head Coach Defines how effectively this coach will assist in developing intangible attributes (i.e. awareness) for their players. This skill is position specific, so you’ll find separate skills for these positions: QB, RB, WR, TE, OL, DL, LB, DB, K and P. Learning Development Head Coach Defines how effectively this coach will assist in developing play knowledge for their players. This skill is position specific, so you’ll find separate skills for these positions: QB, RB, WR, TE, OL, DL, LB, DB, K and P.

SPECIAL COACH SKILLS The second type of skills are Special Coach Skills. Think of them as skills that cover specific areas of interest. There are 44 special skills to choose from; however, some of them require prerequisite skills before they can be chosen. As a result, various skills have different costs. Here are the various skills available: Ambition 10,000 Skill Points Reduces the cost of all other Special Skills for this staff member by 15 percent. This is one of those “pay now to save later” skills that will hurt you in the short term but reap big benefits down the road. It’s highly recommended as the first Special Skill you purchase.

SPECIAL PASS SKILLS text. SKILL TREE

Quarterback Readiness 2,500 Skill Points Increases quarterback’s awareness and evasion of defenders. Improved QB Reads 5,000 Skill Points Quarterbacks have an increased percent chance of finding the right receiver. Prerequisite: Quarterback Readiness. Quarterback Passing Discipline 12,500 Skill Points Increases quarterback stats related to passing power and accuracy. Prerequisite: Improved QB Reads.

Receiver Discipline 2,500 Skill Points Increases receiver stats related to catching. Improved Release 5,000 Skill Points Players have an increased percent chance of successfully releasing. Prerequisite: Receiver Discipline. Improved Catching 12,500 Skill Points Players have an increased percent chance of successfully catching the ball. Prerequisite: Improved Release.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Official game time is kept by the home stadium’s electric clock, and supervised by the line judge. If the electric clock malfunctions or is incorrect, the line judge becomes the official timekeeper.

Passing Game Discipline 20,000 Skill Points The culmination of this skill tree increases the stats of the quarterback and receivers that involve passing and catching. Prerequisites: Quarterback Passing Discipline and Improved Catching.

SPECIAL RUN SKILLS text. SKILL TREE

Running Back Discipline 4,000 Skill Points Increases halfback stats which relate to carrying the ball. Improved Ball Carrier Moves 2,500 Skill Points Increases player stats which impact high-finesse moves and fancy footwork for ball carriers. Improved Break Tackle 7,500 Skill Points Players have an increased percent chance of successfully breaking tackles. Prerequisites: Running Back Discipline and Improved Ball Carrier Moves. Improved Carrying 10,000 Skill Points Players have a reduced percent chance of fumbling the ball. Prerequisite: Improved Break Tackle. Running Game Discipline 20,000 Skill Points Generally increases player stats that relate to the running game. Prerequisite: Improved Carrying.

SPECIAL RUN BLOCK SKILLS text. SKILL TREE

Run Blocking Discipline 3,500 Skill Points Generally increases player stats that relate to blocking for the run. Pass Blocking Discipline 3,500 Skill Points Improves the ability of the offense to block effectively for the pass.

COACH CAREER

Improved Blocking 7,500 Skill Points Players have an increased percent chance of successfully blocking. Prerequisites: Run Blocking Discipline and Pass Blocking Discipline.

Superb Strategist 12,500 Skill Points Increases the strategy skill level of all coaches that report to the coach by two levels. WARNING: This effect only occurs once at the time the skill is purchased! Prerequisite: Innovator.

Offensive Line Discipline 12,500 Skill Points Generally improves the stats of offensive linemen. Prerequisite: Improved Blocking.

SPECIAL BLOCK SHED SKILLS text.

TRAINING SPECIAL SKILLS text. SKILL TREE

Speed Training 5,000 Skill Points Increases player speed, acceleration and agility. Strength Training 5,000 Skill Points Increases player strength and magnifies hitting power. Disciplined Routine 7,500 Skill Points Increases player stats that impact the ability to learn and remember plays. Prerequisites: Speed Training and Strength Training. Game Film Analysis 3,500 Skill Points Increases intangible player stats that impact the ability to assess the situation on the field and remain aware of the opponent’s maneuvering. Gameplan Analysis 5,000 Skill Points Increases your coordinators’ playcalling skills by one level. Warning: This effect only occurs one at the time the skill is purchased! Prerequisite: Game Film Analysis. Innovator 8,500 Skill Points Directly impacts how quickly a player’s stats will develop. Prerequisites: Disciplined Routine and Gameplan Analysis.

NO TREE (STAND-ALONE SKILL)

Improved Block Shedding 7,500 Skill Points Players have an increased percent chance of successfully shedding blocks.

SPECIAL DEFENSIVE SKILLS text. SKILL TREE

Improved Press 2,500 Skill Points Players have an increased percent chance of successfully pressing. Coverage Analysis 2,500 Skill Points Increases stats which impact the defense’s ability to employ effective coverage. Interception Training 10,000 Skill Points Increases player stats that relate to intercepting passes. Prerequisites: Improved Press and Coverage Analysis. Defensive Back Discipline 15,000 Skill Points Improves player stats that impact a defensive back’s ability to effectively cover the opponent’s receivers. Prerequisite: Interception Training. Improved Tackling 2,500 Skill Points Players have an increased percent chance of successfully tackling. Improved Forced Fumble 7,500 Skill Points Players have an increased percent chance of successfully forcing fumbles. Prerequisite: Improved Tackling.

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SPECIAL COACH SKILLS Hard Hit Training 5,000 Skill Points Teaches defensive players how to find the ball, lay down huge hits and tackle effectively. Blitz Discipline 7,500 Skill Points Improves defensive player stats to increase the effectiveness of blitz defenses. Prerequisite: Hard Hit Training. Linebacker Discipline 15,000 Skill Points Generally improves linebacker stats. Prerequisites: Blitz Discipline and Improved Forced Fumble. Improved Defending 22,500 Skill Points Players have an increased percent chance of successfully making a play on the ball. Prerequisites: Defensive Back Discipline and Linebacker Discipline.

SPECIAL PERSONALITY SKILLS text. SKILL TREE

Charisma 7,500 Skill Points Increases the effects of positive Approval changes and decreases the effects of negative Approval changes. Leadership 12,500 Skill Points Increases all coach skill levels related to developing player attributes for each staff member reporting to this coach, while the staff member is on the team. Prerequisite: Charisma. Charm 3,500 Skill Points Makes the effects of all Emotional Reaction decisions slightly more positive in terms of Approval. Motivator 40,000 Skill Points Increases the Potential (Max) value for all attributes for players that report to this coach. Prerequisite: Charm.

Mentor 50,000 Skill Points Adds one level to the highest available skill level for every regular skill for every coach. WARNING: This effect only occurs once at the time of purchase! Prerequisites: Leadership and Motivator. Educator 60,000 Skill Points Permanently increases every skill level by one level for every coach except the head coach. WARNING: This effect only occurs once at the time the skill is purchased! Prerequisite: Mentor.

SPECIAL LEARNING SKILLS text. SKILL TREE

Offseason Seminar 3,500 Skill Points Decreases the rate at which players lose play knowledge during the offseason. Regular Season Seminar 5,000 Skill Points Decreases the rate at which players’ play knowledge degrades during the regular season. Playbook Training 10,000 Skill Points Increases the rate at which the players that report to this coach will learn plays. Prerequisites: Offseason Seminar and Regular Season Seminar.

WHICH text. SKILLS TO GET? ADVICE FOR NEW COACHES

Your initial allotment of skill points can get used up very quickly. All things considered equal, this is one recommended breakdown: 1. Avoid buying any special skills at the start; later on, the first special skill you acquire should be Ambition. 2. Take the Performance skill to Level 5; you’ll have 17,000 points left. If your team is in great shape and you have a great coaching staff (i.e. the Patriots or Colts), you can consider saving those points to acquire Ambition later on. If not, continue to step 3. 3. Focus on two key positions, de-

pending on what you want to focus on and/or improve during your first season (the primary position is listed first): The run game: RB and OL The pass game: QB and WR The run defense: DT and LB The pass defense: DB and LB (It may help to examine your team profile to see where coaching help is needed most). 4. Take Physical Development to Level 3 for the primary position (i.e. RB for the run game) and Level 2 for the secondary position (i.e. OL for the run game). You’ll have 9,500 points left. 5. Go back to step 3 and choose the next most-important focus. Take the remaining points and spend them on Physical Development in the same manner as in step 4 for your next-most important focus. 6. In steps four and five, you can opt to choose a different skill set, such as Intangibles Development or Learning Development instead. Whatever skills you pick, don’t leave too many skill points unused—especially if you have a struggling team. You’ll need to build any edge you can get as quickly as possible.

OTHER text. SKILL STRATEGIES MORE IDEAS FOR NEW COACHES

Here are other suggested approaches to distributing your skill points: Compensate for Your Training Staff: Find out which of your position coaches are weakest (using the team profiles in the back) and spend points on that position. For instance, if your QB coach has the lowest overall score on your staff, spend points on skills that will help boost the QB position. Focus on Special Skills: Pick up Ambition first, which is expensive but will save you big in the long run. With a 15 percent discount at hand, focus on a specific skill tree or spread out evenly. For instance, 15,000 can net you a well-rounded skill set that comprises five special skills that cost 2,125 (after discount) and one special skill that costs 4,250. The skills you choose, of course, should address your team’s most pressing needs.

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CHOOSING PLAYBOOKS After your skills are chosen, you’ll get to choose your offensive and defensive playbooks. Every team has two default playbooks—one offense and one defense—based on their current playing style, coaching philosophies and default personnel strengths. For each playbook, you’ll get to see its strength, which can range from Very Weak to Very Strong (the categories in between are Weak, Average and Strong). You’ll also get to see the total play count and breakdown by type of play. On offense, there are passing, running and special teams plays. On defense, there are blitz, zone and man plays. You are free to choose any playbook you want, but if you choose anything other than the default, your players will have to learn all the plays from scratch. That will put you at an major disadvantage initially. Obviously, you do not

If you peruse through the playbook selections but change your mind and want the defaults instead, press the B button (Square on PS3) to go back, then the A button (X on PS3) to return to the Playbook Select screen. The default choices will be reset automatically.

want to get into the habit of switching playbooks on a regular basis. In addition, if you’ve selected a good team with Average or better playbooks already, there’s no need to fix what isn’t broken. (Remember, you can always add new plays later on). Which playbook to choose? Ultimately, it depends on the type of scheme you want your team to run. For instance, if you want to transform the Bills into a power run team, you’d

probably want to base your offense on the Steelers’ default offensive playbook (Steelers Smashmouth). All the offensive and defensive playbooks (including ones not used by any NFL teams) are covered in greater detail later in this guide, so jump to the Playbook Strategy section if you want to delve into the myriad possibilities. However, if you are starting your career for the first time, your best bet is to stick to the default playbooks just to find out how good (or terrible) your play selections really are after one NFL draft and subsequent season. By then, you’ll know whether your playbook just needs a few new plays to be thrown in—or if you need to totally scrap the system. (The caveat to that rule is if the strength of your default playbook is Weak or Very Weak—in that case, you may not lose much by starting from scratch).

STARTING POINT One of the coolest features in NFL Head Coach 09 is the ability to choose one of two starting points for your career: the off-season (February 2008) or the pre-season (July 2008). If you start in the off-season, you’ll get to redo the NFL Scouting Combine, free agency and the 2008 NFL Draft. If you start in the NFL pre-season, you’ll go straight to training camp with either the game’s current roster or a previously saved roster for that team. Which starting point is best for you? Here are some strategies that should help with your decision-making process. Reasons to start your career in the NFL off-season: 1. You Really Know the Team You Selected: If you are really familiar with your team’s depth chart and how they fared the previous season, you’ll have a good idea of the type of personnel you need to bring in via the draft and/or free agency.

COACH CAREER

2. Your Team Made Bonehead Moves in the Off-Season: If you are not happy with who your team drafted (or didn’t draft), or are miffed that they didn’t pursue a certain free agent, you can “fix” those mistakes. 3. You Want to Create an Alternate NFL Universe: What if the Bears drafted RB Rashard Mendenhall to keep him in the Land of Lincoln? What if Atlanta decided to pick up Darren McFadden? These are just a few of the “what if” scenarios that can occur only if you redo the off-season. Reasons to start your career in the NFL pre-season: 1. You’re a Beginner or are Unfamiliar with Your Team: You’ll be utterly lost in the off-season unless you truly understand your personnel needs from day one. Live trade or free agency events will pop up randomly, and you won’t have time to research them. At least with the pre-season, you’ll have a season’s worth of games to learn more about your franchise and personnel.

2. You Like Your Team’s OffSeason Moves: There’s no need to reinvent the wheel if you’re happy with your pre-season line-up—especially if your team brought in a big free agent or valuable draft pick. 3. You’re In a Hurry: If you’re not big on off-season activities but are itching to get on the sidelines, this’ll save you some time. Ultimately, the choice is up to you and your preferences—but if you decide to start in the off-season, make sure you’re completely up to speed on your team’s most pressing personnel needs (the NFL team profiles later in this guide can help).

SELECTIONS SUMMARY text. THE FINAL STEP

The Selections Summary screen lists your name, playbooks, skills, personality and starting point. Press the A button (X on the PS3) to start your career at the starting point you chose. Good luck!

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COACH CLIPBOARD The Coach Clipboard is the primary interface to manage all the events that occur while playing. Each event has a green “deadline” timer that shrinks depending on the current game speed. As events stack up, they’ll appear in descending order in the Clipboard. You can press up or down on the directional stick to choose which events to handle first—just keep an eye on the timers. When an event appears, press the A button (X on PS3) to address it or B button (Circle on PS3) to dismiss it. In general, you should never dismiss any event unless you’re 100 percent sure you won’t need to worry about it. If you dismiss the event or fail to press any button, the event will be ignored or delegated to your coaching staff depending on your game settings. This is akin to you not doing your job as coach, so it’s never recommended. On the following pages is a complete list of events you may encounter during your career. EVENT ALL Game Reminder (Season or Preseason) Cut Player Confirmation Free Agent Bidding Announcement Injury Diagnosis Player Demands (Trade or Release) Injury Report Sub String (1st, 2nd and 3rd) Team Roadmap Play Call (Delegate Required) Instant Replay NFL Draft Day 1 (Delegate Required) Start or Sit? Develop Staff Regular Season College Scouting Season Expectations (Delegate Required) Regular Season Scouting Result Timeout Senior All-Stars Game Scouting Staff Status NFL Combine Workout Results NFL Combine Scouting

The only way to freeze time is to pause the game. Time will continue to tick while navigating other menus.

When you navigate the Clipboard, keep a close eye on the box that displays the game speed and week display. It will flash white when a new event appears—and its event timer will begin to shrink, even when hidden from view. That white flash and event status bar will help you from missing events.

Important events (i.e. ones you shouldn’t really skip) are marked with a yellow warning icon.

NOTIFIES THE USER THAT… Controls all events (i.e. universal setting) A game is about to start Confirm player cut to meet salary cap A free agent is about to start taking offers An injury diagnosis is available Player demands either a trade or release An injury report is available Offers option to sub in the first, second or third string players The Team Roadmap has been completed Select a play during a game Instant replay can now be viewed The first day of the NFL Draft is starting A new depth chart scenario can be activated A staff member can afford a skill Regular season scouting selections should be made The owner’s season expectation has been chosen; set your goal as well Display the scouting result It’s a good time to take a timeout Choose All-Star Seniors to scout You can view how staff members are performing Display the NFL Combine Workout results Select players to interview from the NFL combine

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Both teams are required to be on the field at least 15 minutes prior to the start of a game. The penalty for delaying the start of the game includes the loss of being able to participate in any coin toss.

EVENT Penalty TO Suggestion Cut Player Confirmation Contract Talks Player Wants Cheaper Deal Player Continues Negotiations Player Wants Rookie Deal Player Continues Rookie Deal Pro Day Scouting Kick Play Call (Delegate Required) NFL Draft Day 2 (Delegate Required) Gameplan Agendas (Delegate Required) Individual Workouts Draft Recap Franchise Tag Game Day Adjustments Staff Bidding Announcement Steal Plays Sub Player (Fatigue or Health) Free Agency Contract Negotiation Trade Proposal Trade Negotiation RFA Decision Suggested Pick RFA Bidding Announcement Low Roster Size Warning Draft Preview Mock Draft Staff Evaluation Announcement (Delegate Required) Draft Pick the Pick Player Retires RFA Match Offer Announcement Head Coach Evaluation Draft Previous Pick Box Score Scouting Report Approval Rating Change Jump to SuperSim Challenge Suggestion Player Disruption Bench Skip Practice Bench Player Challenge

COACH CAREER

NOTIFIES THE USER THAT… You can display the pop-up to accept or decline a penalty The coaching staff suggests a timeout Confirms that a player has been cut A player is ready to start contract negotiations A player wants to take a cheaper deal to help the team A player wants to continue contract negotiations A rookie is ready to start contract negotiations A rookie wants to continue contract negotiations Choose a pro day school to scout Play call for kickoffs The second day of the NFL Draft is starting Agendas are ready to be selected Select an individual workout participant You can display the draft recap screen You can place the franchise tag on one of your players You can display the gameday preplay adjustments screen A coach is about to start taking offers You can steal plays from the other team A player is below either the fatigue or health level A free agent won during bidding is ready to begin contract negotiations Another team is interested in trading for a player A trade negotiation is occurring for a player you might be interested in A restricted free agent needs to have their tender selected Allows you to draft the staff suggested pick for this round You can join biding on a restricted free agent You do not have the recommended number of players You can display the draft preview You can display the mock draft results Staff evaluations will occur Display the Draft Pick the Pick One of your players has retired There is a restricted free agent offer to either match or dismiss Head coach evaluations will occur Displays the last pick results The box score for the game last played can be viewed Your opponent’s play call history can be viewed The reason for a change in your approval rating can be viewed You can go from the normal play mode to SuperSim Your staff is notifying you that a challenge is a good idea You can bench a player who complained to the media You can bench a player who skipped practice You can bench a player who is struggling The option to challenge a call on the field is available

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COACH CLIPBOARD EVENT

NOTIFIES THE USER THAT…

HB Replacement

You might want to consider switching a struggling starting halfback with a younger player

QB Replacement

You might want to consider switching a struggling starting quarterback with a younger player

Young HB Starts

Suggests starting a rookie halfback for the regular season

Young QB Starts

Suggests starting a rookie quarterback for the regular season

Youth Movement

Suggests a depth chart change

Staff Is Leaving

Staff is leaving the team

Staff Was Fired

A coach was fired

Draft Day Trade Negotiation

A draft day trade is occurring that might be of interest

Staff Is Retiring Hint Screens (13 total)

A coach retired Shows hints for topics such as glossary depth chart, play creator, player status, etc.

Depth Chart Alert

Shows a depth chart alert

Injury Alert

An injury is over a length limit

Draft - Trade Down

You can attempt to trade away the current draft pick

Practice Recap

Practice results are ready to be viewed

Staff Recap

A recap of all staff changes in a season can be viewed

Help Screens (9 total)

Shows help screens for topics such as free agency, contracts, scouting, etc.

Inactive Notification

A list of an upcoming opponent’s inactive players can be viewed

Inactive Selection (Delegate Required)

Select inactive players for that week

Undrafted Rookies

Undrafted rookies can be viewed

Free Agency Preview

A preview of upcoming free agents can be viewed

Activate Gameplan

A gameplan agenda is available for use

Season Goal (Completed or Failure)

A season goal has either failed or has been accomplished

Keep Created Plays

When the in-game play creator is used, asks if the new play should be saved

Training Camp Invite

Invitees for the start of training camp can be viewed

Training Camp Rookie Progression

Training camp rookie progression can be viewed

Training Camp Cut Day (Delegate Required)

Players must be cut to meet the maximum player count

Cut Dead Weight Free Agency Recap

Dead weight on the team can be cut The free agents recap screen can be viewed

Season Recap Gameplan Suggestion

The season has ended A coordinator is suggesting a gameplan agenda

Offensive CPU Download Plays

Offensive CPU plays can be downloaded

Defensive CPU Download Plays

Defensive CPU plays can be downloaded

Draft - Trade Up New Hire Playbook

CLIPBOARD MANAGEMENT ADVANCED SETTINGS

If you’re tired of dismissing the same events over and over again, or if you want to focus only on certain aspects of coaching, you can manage which events will appear on your Clipboard. To do this, pause your career and select Coach Clipboard. A long menu of events will appear with two check

You can attempt to trade up for the current draft pick You can view the old playbook of a newly hired coach

boxes for each event: Show Me and Delegate. The default for nearly all events is “Show Me”—meaning that every event of that type will appear in your Clipboard. The other check box is Delegate, which means that your coaching staff will make decisions for you if you dismiss or ignore such events. Some Delegate check boxes are locked, which

means that they will be taken care of no matter what. When only the Show Me box is checked, it is up to you to act on the event. Ignoring or dismissing it means that it will disappear without any action being taken. This gives you total control—but if you miss out, your coaching staff won’t be available to help unless required to do so.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The first indoor NFL game took place in 1932 at Chicago Stadium. Because of the stadium size and configuration, the teams were forced to play on an 80-yard field.

When only the Delegate check box is selected, your coaching staff will take care of it automatically, and it won’t appear in your clipboard. You give up some control when you go this route. When both boxes are checked, you get the option to either act on the event manually or make your coaching staff deal with it if you ignore or dismiss it.

CLIPBOARD CATEGORIES OTHER STUFF TO DO

Press left or right on the directional pad or stick, or press either the LB or RB buttons (L1 and R1 on the PS3) to toggle between other categories to choose from, including: 1. Draft: Review draft picks, draft results and draft recap. 2. NFL: Review the NFL schedule, standings, news, injuries, various

stats, important dates and free agency preview. 3. Team: Review all the important data for your team, including approval rating, team schedule, season goals, staff status, staff development, player status, team philosophy, team needs, team roadmap, and salary cap status. In this submenu, Player Status gives you a snapshot of each player’s approval of you and of any issues he might have. 4. Roster: Review your roster, depth chart, injury report, player roadmap, progression, free agents, trade and roster breakdown. 5. Playbook: View your playbook, manage plays, export plays and view your play call history. 6. Glossary: View help screens of various game-related topics.

7. Sim To: The points to which you can simulate play to will change depending on what point of the season you’re at. You can simulate gameplay at any time in the “SIM TO” section of the coach’s Clipboard. You can simulate through the Pre-Season, Next Game, Regular Season, Playoffs, Next OffSeason or Senior Bowl (the actual choices may vary depending on what part of the season you’re at). Some of these selections are also events in themselves; we’ll go into further detail later in this guide on many of them.

ASK EA SPORTS Are there opportunities to schedule activities at all, or has that whole system been completely done away with? While navigating the Clipboard, you can change how fast the game progresses at any time by using the LT and RT buttons (L2 and R2 on the PS3). For beginners, the slowest speed is recommended: Events can pile up quickly, and you may get flustered if you’re not monitoring events very closely.

If neither the Show Me or Delegate check box is selected, the event will be ignored and never be seen. Obviously, be very careful when trying this—you don’t want to miss out on important events. A good example of items to turn off completely are game hints and help screens once you’ve got a feel for what’s going on.

Simulation may be a good time-saver, but you’ll certainly miss out on important events or key decisions that may occur during the simulation. As a result, use this feature with care. Stop a simulation in progress by pressing the A button (X button on the PS3).

You’ll notice the clock in the upper right progress as the simulation runs; your approval rating will change accordingly as events occur. Also, as you travel to different team cities, the background setting will change accordingly.

COACH CAREER

We did away with the scheduling system for NFL Head Coach 09. We know scheduling meetings in our lives is an annoyance, so we felt like it would be a good idea to save you that trouble.

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ON THE SIDELINES Your first Coach Now or pre-season game can seem intimidating—there is so much going on at once, it’s easy to lose focus. Compounding that challenge is that the clock keeps ticking no matter what, giving you a limited window to call plays, make adjustments, and react to events on the field. Visually, you’ll have multiple camera game views that you can switch by pressing LT or RT (L2 or R2 on PS3). Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect when playing any game:

YOUR text. GAMEPLAN AGENDA SETTING UP YOUR IN-GAME ADVANTAGES

Before any game, you can opt to choose a Gameplan Agenda: In a Coach Now game, you can choose up to three strategic advantages or development goals you want to have during the game. (You can opt to choose less than three, but that is not recommended.) In Career Mode, your agenda is determined by your practices that week. When you choose to use a Gameplan Agenda during a game, your players will receive a boost in stats. The exact number of boosts per agenda item depends on how you’ve set up your gameplan and your coaching staff’s ability. While you can activate your Gameplan Agenda at any time, they’re best saved for key situations, such as near the end of scoring drives, key third- or fourth-down plays, and near the end of a close game or overtime. You might also want to choose agenda items that’ll help you achieve season goals.

THE text.COIN TOSS

WHO GETS THE BALL FIRST—AND MUCH MORE

The visiting team gets to call the coin toss, which determines who gets the ball first and which end zone is defended by each team. Most coin toss winners opt to kick off (defer possession) so that the team gets the ball to start the second half. A notable exception is when it’s very windy: Teams instead pick an end zone to defend so that they’ll have the wind to their back in the 4th quarter. This helps kickers kick field goals, which can become crucial in close games.

This lists the many different options for selecting a play.

Any play can be flipped. You can also make player substitutions and edit the play—but don’t spend too much time choosing, or you’ll be penalized for delay of game.

COACH text. CLIPBOARD REVIEW WHAT YOU CAN DO DURING A GAME

Other Clipboard categories during a game comprise the following: • Gameday: Jump to SuperSim mode, sub in your 2nd or 3rd string players, call a timeout, and (when applicable), review instant replay or challenge a call on the field. • Gameday Info: Check your Depth Chart, and review drive/score summaries as well as player/game statistics. • NFL: Review injured players. • Roster: Review the health and fatigue of your players.

ACCELERATED CLOCK text. MAKE THE GAME GO FASTER

The Accelerated Clock is a built-in feature that quickly runs off time when no active items are on your Clipboard. This is intended to speed up “lulls” in the game, which keeps the gameplay pace fast. This feature is disabled in the last 2:30 of the second quarter, the last 5:00 of the fourth quarter, and overtime.

CALLING PLAYS text.

THE BRAINS BEHIND THE BRAWN

Your most important task during a game is to call offensive and defensive plays. Although you can press the B

On defense, you can analyze your opponent’s playcall tendencies.

button (Circle on PS3) on any play call to let the CPU handle it, doing it yourself gives you a better grasp of your playbook. During a game, you’ll have a wide variety of ways to call plays: By Formation, By Play Type, By Success, By Agenda, Ask Coach, By Play Knowledge, Recent Plays and Created Plays. Use whichever option works best and fastest for you.

COACH ADVANTAGE t. ANALYZING THE ODDS

For each play, the Coach Advantage pops up at the bottom of the screen. This shows you the boosts that you’ll be getting (if any) on that play. It also shows the boost your opponent is receiving. Boosts come from play knowledge, gameplans and coach skills.

SUPERSIM text.

FLY THROUGH THE GAME

Supersim Mode is a fast way to play through a game. After activating Supersim Mode, you’ll see a representation of the field to monitor the progress of the drive currently in progress. You’ll be able to call plays (but not make adjustments) while in Supersim Mode, and you can resume normal play mode by pausing the game and selecting “Jump to Gameplay.”

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

All NFL officials wear black hats, except for the referee, who wears a white cap.

EDITING PLAYS IN-GAME text. TWEAK PLAYS ON THE FLY

Before confirming a playcall selection, you can edit it on the sideline. This is a powerful feature: Change blocking assignments, pass routes or experiment with variations of the same play. Many of the tactics used to edit plays apply to conventional play design, which is covered fully in the Playbook Strategy section of this guide.

ADJUSTMENTS text.

TWEAKING YOUR PLAY CALLS

Offensive or defensive adjustments are made to enhance your playcall based on what you see on the field. On defense, you often have a limited time to make adjustments. The chart to the right shows the different offensive defensive adjustments you can make before the ball is snapped, and why you’d make them.

EMOTIONAL REACTIONS REACTING TO IN-GAME SITUATIONS

During each game, you’ll have Emotional Reactions appear. This is your opportunity to react to a big play that just happened (either good or bad). Choose a reaction and you’ll see your coach respond. Depending on your players’ personalities, they could like or dislike your choice. As a general rule, the more you know your players’ personalities, the better you can guess which reaction will be most “compatible” with your players. If you don’t know your players’ personalities, guess the reaction most in line with your own personality, then see how your players react. If favorable, then try to stay consistent with your personality type.

PENALTIES

ACCEPT OR DECLINE

When a penalty is committed, a screen will appear to show you the effect of accepting or declining it.

QUICK SUBS

ANOTHER POWERFUL FEATURE

Before confirming a playcall selection, you can make a quick player substitution at any position on the field by pressing the X Button (Square on PS3)

before confirming a playcall. The play clock will count down, so you must choose your subs very quickly.

INJURIES & FATIGUE KEEPING PLAYERS FRESH

When injuries occur or when players on your squad are fatigued, you’ll be notified. For fatigued players, you’ll get to choose to rest them or keep them playing. Dealing with injuries and fatigue is covered later in this guide.

OFFENSIVE ADJUSTMENT Flip Play

WHAT IT DOES Flips the play diagram

Call this when you want to run a play to a certain side of the field; this is usually done for plays such as sweeps so that they’re run to the wider side of the field. Hot Routes

Changes the assignment of a specific receiver

Hot route options include these pass routes: Streak, Curl, In, Out, Drag, Slant In, Slant Out and Fade. You can also tell the receiver to Block Left or Block Right. Reset All

Negates all offensive adjustments

Call this when you want to revert to your original offensive play called DEFENSIVE ADJUSTMENT DL Shift Left

WHAT IT DOES

Shifts defensive linemen left of where they’d usually line up

Call this when you expect a play to the left side of the field DL Shift Right

Shifts defensive linemen right of where they’d usually line up

Call this when you expect a play to the right side of the field DL Pinch

Moves defensive linemen closer together

Call this when you expect a play between the offensive tackles (i.e. dive run) DL Spread

Spreads defensive linemen farther apart

Call this when you expect a play to the sidelines (i.e. sweep run) LB Shift Left

Shifts linebackers left of where they’d usually line up

Call this when you expect a play to the left side of the field (run or short pass) LB Shift Right

Shifts linebackers right of where they’d usually line up

Call this when you expect a play to the right side of the field (run or short pass) LB Pinch

Moves the linebackers closer together

Call this when you expect a play between the offensive tackles (i.e. dive run) LB Spread

Spreads linebackers farther apart

Call this when you expect a play to the sidelines (i.e. sweep run or short out) Press

Moves the cornerbacks closer to the receivers

Call this when you expect a shorter pass or run; may disrupt timing routes Release

Backs the cornerbacks off the receivers

Call this when you expect a long pass; gives CBs room to keep pace with WRs Show Blitz

Shows blitz regardless of whether you called it or not

May trick/pressure the QB into thinking blitz even if you didn’t call for a blitz For Emotional Reactions, move the left direction stick up or down to choose one of the options listed on screen.

COACH CAREER

Reset All

Negates all defensive adjustments

Call this when you want to revert to your original defensive play called

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ON THE SIDELINES DEFINING MOMENTS

REACTING TO CRITICAL IN-GAME SITUATIONS

Defining Moments occur during key “win or lose” situations in your games. Your choice, and its subsequent success or failure, will have a huge impact on your approval rating. When the Defining Moments screen pops up, you’ll be given a list of choices, and how each choice could impact your approval rating. As head coach, your job is to win football games—not win a popularity contest. Worry less about your approval rating and more on the choice that’ll give you the best chance at winning the game at hand—even if the fans won’t agree with your call.

BOX SCORE REVIEW THE GAME

After the game, you’ll get to review the Box Score, from which you can access many statistics to analyze.

ASK EA SPORTS How will CPU opponents call plays? Teams track how successful their plays are, and that—along with personnel and team tendencies— drives what they call. For instance, if you play against the Colts, you’ll notice they call the stretch play 90 percent of the time when they run the ball. The Bucs run Cover 2 on defense. The Patriots come out in 5-wide sets.

When you edit a play from the sidelines, time freezes to give you a chance to modify an existing play as you see fit. After making your modifications, press the X button (Square on PS3) to call the play. After you watch the play unfold, you’ll get the option of saving it to your playbook.

Quick Subs are a good way to give a specific player enough reps in a game; you can also use the Gameday portion of the Clipboard to substitute your 2nd and 3rd string players as a group. To make permanent substitution changes, adjust your Depth Chart as needed.

APPROVAL RATING Success and failure in NFL Head Coach 09 is measured by your Approval Rating, which is the large number on the lower right corner of the screen when you begin your career. Every action you take can affect your Approval Rating—play calls, games played, trades, etc.—and some groups may react more strongly than others to events affecting your team. Your Approval Rating can range from 0 to 99. If it drops too low (i.e. 20 or lower), you run the risk of being fired. If your approval rating is high, not only will you have job security, but you’ll have an easier time negotiating contracts and dealing with players. Achieving team goals, fulfilling your preseason promise, winning games, and successful Defining Moments can all boost your Approval Rating sharply.

When major rating changes occur, you’ll find out why on this screen.

The rating is actually a composite score based upon the approval of different groups of people: players, coaching staff, fans, your team owner and the media.

If this score drops to 20, your job security may be in jeopardy.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

‘I’m a lot better at holding thoughts inside than I was when I was younger. It’s something I do consciously. No. 1, I’m trying to think ahead to the next situation. No. 2, I’m trying to show my team that I’m in control and that I’m poised out there, even when I’m not.’ —Tony Dungy in January 2007, describing his demeanor while on the sidelines

THE OFF-SEASON TEAM PHILOSOPHY

FRANCHISE TAGS

OFF-SEASON EVENTS

FREE AGENCY

RESTRICTED FREE AGENCY 27 TRADES

CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS 32 PLAYER GRADES

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TEAM PHILOSOPHY Team Philosophy determines your organization’s direction in many categories ranging from player management to drafting and contract negotiations. Some of these may be locked (meaning you can’t change them) if you gave up control of a specific philosophy when hiring coaches. It’s important to review and adjust your Team Philosophy to make sure your off-season moves sync up with your team’s plan for the season ahead. You can find your Team Philosophy in the Team section of your Clipboard.

THE SALARY CAP

HOW TO KEEP YOUR TEAM UNDER THE CAP

The salary cap is essentially your team’s yearly spending budget when it comes to player contracts.

The salary cap increases slightly each year as your career progresses. Be careful when you sign players to big contracts: You may eventually have to cut other players to stay under the cap. A tiny cap space will limit your ability to negotiate trades or free agency bids. If for some reason you bust your cap, your team will be fined and/or you will lose draft picks. Obviously, you never want to go over your salary cap.

PLAYER STATUS

HOW YOUR PLAYERS MEASURE UP

Your team’s Player Status (also found in the Team section of the Clipboard) shows an overall evaluation of every player on the team, their approval rating and current status.

Team Philosophy categories include Coach Hire, Injury, Depth Chart, Playcall, Evaluation, Trade, Draft, Contract, Career Development, and Philosophies for all positions—take the time to review it all.

TEAM ROADMAP

PLOTTING YOUR FRANCHISE’S FUTURE

The Team Roadmap is an important tool comprising several key elements: • Salary Cap Status lets you review your salary cap levels. • Team Needs lists the positions you need to fill from highest to lowest. The Team Philosophy guides many aspects of the Team Roadmap—not just for your team, but for all teams. • Team Gameplan lists all available players at each position, including free agents, rookies and trade candidates. This gives you an idea of who to target. This can be sorted by player position. Find Team Roadmap in the Team section of the Clipboard.

Franchise tags are often used to prevent superstars from leaving; in general, they’re saved for players with an overall rating of 85 or higher. However, you can tag any player you wish (or none at all).

FRANCHISE TAGS The franchise tag is a special designation given to a player by a team that guarantees that player a contract the average of the five highest-paid players of that same position in the entire league, in return for retaining rights to that player for one year. When the Apply Franchise Tag event occurs, you’ll get to choose one player to slap the tag on. You’ll see the tag price—which is the one-year contract cost to keep that player.

The Team Philosophy guides the use of franchise tags for CPU teams: Some teams will tag players frequently, others rarely. An NFL franchise may only designate one player a year as having the franchise tag, and may designate the same player for consecutive years. The tag allows you to keep a player for one year even if that player doesn’t want to re-sign with your team. However, be careful—if you tag a player who

doesn’t want to be on your team, that player’s approval will drop drastically. Depending on the personality type, that player may also demand a trade. In theory, you never want to use the tag—all your players should be happy and want to stay. In reality, you need to protect yourself from other teams who’ll try to lure a player away from you, and this keeps them locked on your roster.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

OFF-SEASON EVENTS Here’s a list of some non-scouting related events that occur during the off-season. (Scouting events such as the Mock Draft, NFL Combine and Pro Days are covered in the NFL Draft section of this guide.) Not on this list are events related to free agency and trades—those major topics are covered later in this section.

NEW SEASON GOALS

OFF-SEASON BENCHMARKS TO ACHIEVE

You’ll review goals at many points during each season; at the start of the off-season, these goals are usually related to finding solid draft picks or acquisitions at specific positions. A more comprehensive review of New Season Goals is in the Pre-Season section of this guide. You can review your Season Goals at any time by navigating to Team > Season Goals.

CUTTING DEAD WEIGHT

CLEAR YOUR ROSTER BEFORE FREE AGENCY

Before free agent bidding begins, all NFL teams will evaluate their rosters and cut dead weight. Teams often cut overpaid, older players to free up salary cap room.

COACH BIDDING LIVE EVENT GIVING UP CONTROL TO IMPROVE YOUR STAFF

As your first season ends, struggling teams will begin to clean house and fire coaches or staff while college coaches look to go pro. This puts them all on the market for hire.

When considering a bid for a new staffer, giving up control shouldn’t bother you if you’re pursuing a very skilled (rated 85-plus) coach. Also bid aggressively if you want to fulfill a related season goal. It takes longer for a GM or trainer’s skill points to build, so hiring a great one is faster than developing one. If you see a 99-rated trainer on the market, hire him at all costs!

During Coach Bidding, you’ll have the opportunity to give up control to the coach you want to hire to increase his interest in your team. If you’re the team left with the highest interest, you’ll be able to hire that coach. Control changes range from replacing playbooks to cutting specific players. You may even have to revamp your team’s philosophy. If you successfully hire an offensive or defensive coordinator, you’ll be allowed to choose plays from his playbook to add to yours. Pay special attention to coaches who can bring new playbooks to the table, such as those featuring the option, run and shoot or the wishbone. If you’re the type of person itching to bring college tactics to the NFL, it’ll be easier to hire a college coach with a proficient playbook than draw one up from scratch. (A list of those playbooks can be found in the Playbook Strategy section later in this guide).

When reviewing your Season Goals, you can use the LT button (L1 on PS3) to sort through your them. You can view All Goals, Goals in Progress, Successful goals and Failed Goals.

THE OFF-SEASON

ROOKIE SIGNINGS text. AFTER THE DRAFT

Rookie signings begin just before Training Camp; look in the Pre-Season section of this guide for a full review of negotiation tactics with rookies.

UNDRAFTED ROOKIES text. ANOTHER EVENT AFTER THE DRAFT

Undrafted Rookie Free Agent signing allows you to bid on players who slipped through the cracks during the NFL Draft. You can only sign five players, so be careful who you bid on. Players are ranked from highest to lowest overall score. The clock begins ticking on players who’ve been bid on, so you must evaluate players quickly and monitor them closely to make sure you don’t get outbid before time runs out (a beeping sound will occur so you know when a bidding process is about to end). Sort players by position if you want to target specific team needs. This is a cheap way to fill glaring roster holes. You’ll go down the list of rookies until your five slots are filled or exit the process early (you don’t have to use all five slots, but that’s not recommended).

DATES & SCHEDULES FRIENDLY REMINDERS

The Important Dates event will pop up occasionally during your career as a reminder of what’s ahead. You can review your schedule (and other teams) at any time by choosing Team > Team Schedule in the Clipboard.

Each undrafted rookie’s bid timer is activated when a first bid is placed. The team bidding is shown to the right. You must scroll fast through prospects to make sure you don’t miss out on any bids.

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FREE AGENCY The NFL off-season is dominated by free agency, in which players with expiring contracts try to find new teams to join. Here’s what you need to know:

THE FA PREVIEW

A SNEAK PEEK OF PLAYERS ON THE MARKET

The FA Preview shows you every free agent that might be available in the off-season and in the years to come. This is a great way to help you plan for pursuing talent you’d like to see on your squad. It will appear in your Clipboard before free agency begins, but you can review it at any time by accessing NFL > FA Preview.

FREE AGENT BIDDING

HOW THE BIDDING PROCESS WORKS

When a free agent appears in your Coach Clipboard, you’ll have a limited time to decide whether to bid on him or not. There is no harm in joining in, even if you’re not interested at all: You can just “browse” to see (without making

When controlled by the CPU, the following teams have a default philosophy of building their rosters through free agency: Broncos, Buccaneers, Chiefs, Cowboys, Dolphins, 49ers, Giants, Packers, Raiders, Redskins and Saints.

any bids, of course) which other teams are interested in this player and what the going price winds up being. If you agree to bid, you’ll be shown the Free Agent Auction screen, which will show you the player’s name, position, overall score and age—all of which should be taken into account before making a bid. Underneath, you’ll see the icons of all the teams participating in the auction with you. Below that is your bid, your cap room, your cap hit, and the time remaining in the auction. At the bottom,

you’ll see which team is in the lead and the amount of their highest bid. You can raise your bid or exit the bidding process at any time—but if you leave, you can’t return. You’ll also see CPU teams bid for the player. If two teams really want the same player, you’ll see the bids rise dramatically from their starting point. You should expect to pay a lot of money for premium free agents—in some cases, up to $70 million! Obviously, the worst thing you can do is win a bid for a player you don’t really need or want—so bid with caution and a sharp eye on your cap room. The flip side of that is that you shouldn’t be afraid to put up a little extra money to get a player you desperately want. The winner of a free agent bid gets to negotiate a contract with that player, which is an important step. The contract value will be based on the bid amount, but the particulars will be open

ASK EA SPORTS Will teams overpay for players?

Monitor your Clipboard carefully for free agent names to pop up. Ideally, you’ve created a “wish list” of players to pursue. That’ll help you make sure you don’t accidentally miss out on any prospects.

The only 100-percent-sure way to win a bid is to aggressively bid until all other teams drop out. This can get expensive, so use this approach only for musthave players. You’ll negotiate the contract after winning.

As the bidding price increases, you’ll start to see teams drop out. Make an early bid, then lurk in the background and wait for other teams drop out before bidding again to find out who’s seriously in the running.

If you do not tender a Restricted Free Agent, you release him from the team and he becomes a Free Agent. Tendering an RFA will give you compensatory picks if you don’t choose to match another team’s offer.

Sometimes a team will overpay depending on how deep the free agent market is. If a team likes that type of player, they’re willing to spend some money to get him, depending on who they already have. As far as value goes, our system is pretty robust. Ratings are just a small part of a player’s value to a team. Value takes into account a number of things including his upside remaining, his cap hit, how much of the playbook he knows, and so forth.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Eagles Hall of Fame coach Earle Neale also was a baseball player for the Cincinnati Reds and played in the 1919 World Series.

for negotiation (covered later in this section). Although there is less of a chance that a player will walk away from his negotiation, if he does, the penalty is severe. That player will return to the open market, and you will lose the right to negotiate with him.

FREE AGENCY RECAP AT THE END OF THE OFF-SEASON

You can review most free agency moves when this event appears.

FREE AGENCY TACTICS

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR SALARY CAP SPACE

It’s way too easy and tempting to annihilate your salary cap in free agency. Avoid impulse buys by making a must-buy “shopping” list—and stick to it no matter what.

Many of your team’s off-season goals are related to acquiring players rated 85 or higher overall at specific positions. When the FA Preview appears before free agency kicks off, sort the preview by each of those positions, and write down the name of the best (or youngest if the talent gap is narrow) 85-plus rated player available. Ignore names of players you deem as too old (personally, this writer limits the search only to players in their 20s). If there are no qualified names, you’ll have to achieve the goal via the draft. During free agency, look for those names on your list and win as many bids as your salary cap can comfortably handle. If you have lots of cap space, be aggressive: Remember, every young free agent you acquire is one less draft pick you have to use.

If you have a top-five position of need that isn’t linked to season goals, you can investigate free agents for that position, but join an auction only if all three criteria apply: 1. You have enough cap space after considering the money needed for players on your season-goal list as well as your top draft picks. If you’re not sure, don’t risk it. 2. The free agent has an overall rating higher than your current starter at that position. 3. That player is in his 20s AND younger than your current starter. 4. You have space on your roster. (To release a player, go to Roster > Roster on your Clipboard and press the A Button (X on PS3). A series of options will appear, including one to release.) Most importantly, ignore every other free agent that’s not a top-five needs position. Your salary cap will thank you later.

RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS Restricted Free Agents are players on your team that have been in the NFL three years and their contract is expiring. Unlike free agents, you can exercise a little control over whether they can stay or go.

TENDER RFAs

CHOOSING YOUR TENDER LEVEL

During the Tender Restricted Free Agents event, you’ll get to choose a Tender Level for that player. If you do not tender that player (i.e. you definitely no longer want that player), he’ll be released to free agency. Otherwise, you can choose a Tender Level between 1 and 4—the higher the level, the more valuable you deem the player. If you make the Tender Level too high, other teams probably won’t negotiate a deal with that player, and then you’ll be stuck with that player with a contract priced at that previously chosen tender level (ranging between $0.9 million and $2.6 million in 2008).

THE OFF-SEASON

This is a timed deadline event, so you’ll need to make a quick decision. When in doubt, follow the recommended course of action next to the player’s name.

RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS MATCHING OTHER TEAM OFFERS

Like Free Agents, Restricted Free Agents can also accept bids from various teams to negotiate the best contract for themselves. However, RFAs are required to let their current team match whatever offer they receive. In other words, you’ll get “right of first refusal” for any RFA on your team. When considering an RFA match, key factors include how it’ll affect your salary cap, the player’s age, and the importance of that player to your depth chart. For instance, if that player is older, and you plan to draft a replacement, you probably don’t want to match if the deal is expensive. If you don’t match your player’s RFA

For the 2008 NFL off-season, here is the nitty-gritty about how the four tender levels translate to compensatory draft picks: Level 1: Draft pick equal to the round the restricted free agent was originally drafted at. Level 2: Second-round draft pick Level 3: First-round draft pick Level 4: First and third-round picks

offer, you’ll receive compensatory draft picks based on the tender level previously chosen. There’ll be a time limit to decide (usually one minute), so you’ll need to have back-up scenarios plotted out in advance for your team’s RFAs before free agency kicks off.

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TRADES When you decide to activate a trade negotiation event, you’ll have a timed deadline (two minutes) to decide whether to negotiate or to say you’re not interested. Trade negotiations usually occur in the off-season, but they can continue into the pre-season and even into the regular season. The trade screen will show you the team that’s looking to trade with you (which you’ll have to glean from the player’s team background and helmet logo), what the team is looking to trade for, and your current depth chart at the position for the player being offered. Here are key considerations when negotiating any trade: 1. Player Age: How many years left before he’s likely to retire? The average NFL retirement age varies from position to position, but generally, the more physical the position, the shorter the career. (That’s usually why quarterbacks and kickers can play well into their 40s, while linesmen and running backs cannot). 2. Depth Chart: How will your depth chart look after the trade? In general, you should avoid getting too thin or thick at any one position. On the other hand, if you have multiple players with low talent level, a trade might be to your benefit.

The initial Trade Player screen has a lot of information that’ll help you decide whether to start negotiations. The first thing you want to do is to see how that trade candidate would improve your depth chart.

It’ll be fairly common for CPU teams to trade between each other without your participation. When a CPU-to-CPU trade involves a player that your team may be interested in, you may receive an event notice that a trade negotiation is taking place.

3. Overall Talent: Is this a superstar deal (i.e. a player with 90-plus overall score) or a lower-tier trade? Obviously, the better the player, the more you should consider negotiating. 4. Salary Cap: How will this trade affect your salary cap—not just for this season, but for future seasons as well? This is especially important when trading for superstar players: A big-name player might help your team in the short run, but it may also hamper your salary cap in the long run. 5. Goals: Obviously, if a player trade comes up that matches one of your goals in progress, you should pursue it.

INITIATING A TRADE GETTING THE BALL ROLLING

You are always free to initiate a trade with any other team. You can do it solely on your own preferences,

Make sure to take age into account—a player with a lower Overall score may be preferable to an older player with a higher score. The younger player has more time to develop and may have more potential.

or you might want to initiate talks to try and meet a season goal set by the team owner. To initiate a trade, select Roster > Trade in your Clipboard. Be careful about being too greedy: Any unreasonable demands can abruptly terminate a trade negotiation. It is wise to know the negotiation preferences of the team you’re negotiating with (a list of the default CPU preferences is available later in this section). The more stubborn and stingy the negotiator, the less likely he’ll budge on terms of a deal.

THE TRADE SCREEN THE CLOCK STARTS TICKING…

If you decide to negotiate, the trade screen will appear. You’ll hear the clock start ticking, but don’t panic. The trade screen will reveal a lot of information you’ll need to process quickly. The top bar shows the head coach of the team you’re negotiating with, and their comments to you as the negotiations progress. Below that is a black bar listing the team (or teams) currently at the negotiating table. Remember that CPU teams will also be bidding at the same time. You won’t see their bids, but if a team makes a bid better than yours, you’ll be

If you’re the only team participating in the trade, you can haggle a bit more. If another team is in the mix, your bid will have to beat other offers AND satisfy the team initiating the trade. If a lot of teams are involved, you might have to sweeten your offers a bit more to be taken seriously.

It’s tough to lowball other NFL teams when it comes to trades. If you see the words “Are you serious?” or “That’s absurd.” after you make your first offer, that often means that you’re way too low. Another lowball offer from you will most likely terminate trade discussions immediately.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Hall of Fame coach Steve Owen coached for the New York Giants without ever signing a contract.

out of luck once the timer runs out. If there are no other teams bidding, you may have more leverage when it comes to negotiating a more favorable deal. Below that are three boxes: The current best offer you’ve made, the player being traded (listed with position and overall grade), and the time remaining with trade negotiations. The first thing you should always do is review your roster breakdown by pressing the Y button (Triangle on PS3). That will reveal how many players you have at that position, the desired level, and your current grade at that position. Any grade lower than a B should make you seriously consider a trade. Below that are the packages that you can offer the other team. Each package to offer comes with a fivepoint scale that indicates the relative value of your offer—one star is a low offer, five stars is a very generous offer. These offers can include draft picks and players, or a mix between the two. Once you select an offer, the other team will most likely decline and ask for a better deal from you (in fact, if they accept right away, your first offer was probably more than what they were looking for). You can continue to make the same offer or choose a different one. Negotiations will continue until time runs out, they get tired of your offers, or they agree to your terms (or another team’s terms). Any successful trade will likely impact your approval rating positively or negatively, depending on how well it matches up with your team’s road map and owner expectations. You shouldn’t worry if your approval falls with one or two trades—think of it as short-term pain for long-term gain (assuming you made a good trade, of course). However, if you’re consistently getting negative approval, you may be making too many bad trades.

TRADING TIPS

SOME RULES OF THUMB TO LIVE BY

It’s tough to determine whether a trade is fair or not. Here are some tips that may help at the negotiating table: 1. Calculate Gain and Loss: All things being equal, any drop in overall score should be offset with a gain in

THE OFF-SEASON

ASK EA SPORTS What can you tell us about the CPU logic for picking up free agents and trading?

When you initiate a trade, you can “Trade For” a certain player, or “Trade Away” someone on your roster. You’ll only be able to trade for players who have their Trade boxes checked.

When you “Trade Away” a player by clicking their Trade box, you’re actually just adding him to your trading block. Nothing will happen until a CPU team approaches you about that player.

Keep an eye on both the NFL Network pop-ups and the news ticker at the bottom of the screen. Both will keep you abreast of all the major trades, player updates and signing news as the off-season progresses.

All CPU teams have a plan with each free agent and each trade negotiation that comes along. It’s called the Team Roadmap, and it basically provides a plan for each team at each position for the entire year. Sometimes teams won’t sign a free agent knowing they can draft a player to fill the spot instead. If they do decide to go after a free agent, how much a team will spend depends on how severe the team need is versus how much cap room they have to spend. If a team has a lot of money and they really need a player at a particular position, expect to be in a bidding war for that player. With trades, personalities will dictate how much the team you are dealing with is willing to take. They may walk away if you counter too many times or they may cave in because their GM is a pushover. It all depends on the GM’s personality. The same concept also applies to contract negotiations with players.

You can Quicksave your game at any time during your career whenever you see the Quicksave button icon as an option in the lower left corner of the screen (to activate Quicksave, depress the left directional stick on your controller). Whether you use Quicksave or not, make it a point to save before any big event or game that you might wish to redo.

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TRADES what you are trading for. For instance, if you’re trading for a tight end with an 89 overall rating, and your second-string player has a rating of 80, you’re gaining 9 points of production. Your trade offer should not give up more than 9 points on your end. Of course, you should also take into account player age and possible potential growth when making such calculations. 2. Calculate Gain and Loss with Draft Picks: How can you use the first rule when you’re giving up draft picks TEAM

GM NAME

in exchange? It is hard to do, but it may help to create guidelines that equate draft picks to player overall grades. Here is one example: 1st round draft pick: 90 overall 2nd round pick: 85 overall 3rd round pick: 80 overall 4th round pick: 75 overall 5th round pick: 70 overall Change the numbers to values you deem best. The key here is this: When you start thinking of draft picks as potential players, it can make it easier to determine trade value.

3. Always negotiate: Never take the first deal the CPU offers you. Almost as important is to never low-ball your first counteroffer. You want to be conservative with your first counteroffer, but don’t insult the CPU with a way-toolow offer that may make him walk away from the negotiating table prematurely. CPU teams base their free agent and trade strategies on their Team Roadmaps, which dictate how teams expect to fill positions for the entire year. For instance, a CPU team won’t

TRADE FREQUENCY PHILOSOPHY TRADE MINDSET PHILOSOPHY

TRADE FUTURE PICKS PHILOSOPHY

Bears

Jim Andrews

Light Trader

Over Offer

Neutral

Bengals

Marvin Louis

Light Trader

Low Ball

Neutral

Bills

Noah Body

Neutral

Over Offer

Neutral

Jim Treadway

Heavy Trader

Normal

Neutral

Browns

Bill Savant

Heavy Trader

Normal

Trade Away Future Picks

Bucs

Ben Allens

Neutral

Normal

Neutral

Cardinals

Red Grave

Light Trader

Low Ball

Acquire Future Picks

Chargers

Jay Smits

Light Trader

Normal

Neutral

Broncos

Chiefs

Karl Potts

Neutral

Normal

Neutral

Colts

Phil Foliage

Heavy Trader

Normal

Trade Away Future Picks

Cowboys

Gary Jones

Heavy Trader

Over Offer

Acquire Future Picks

Gil Darnell

Heavy Trader

Over Offer

Neutral

Tim Heckle

Heavy Trader

Normal

Acquire Future Picks

Dolphins Eagles Falcons 49ers Giants

Don Ross

Neutral

Normal

Neutral

Josh McClout

Heavy Trader

Low Ball

Neutral

Gary Meese

Light Trader

Normal

Neutral

Jerry Harless

Neutral

Low Ball

Neutral

Jets

Guy Torrent

Heavy Trader

Normal

Neutral

Lions

Mack Miller

Heavy Trader

Over Offer

Trade Away Future Picks

Packers

Tom Tedson

Light Trader

Low Ball

Neutral

Panthers

Marvin Hurley

Light Trader

Normal

Neutral

Patriots

Sam Polo

Heavy Trader

Over Offer

Neutral

Raiders

Alan David

Neutral

Over Offer

Neutral

Ray Zest

Light Trader

Normal

Neutral

Oswald Newberry

Heavy Trader

Normal

Acquire Future Picks

Danny Spyder

Heavy Trader

Over Offer

Trade Away Future Picks

Jaguars

Rams Ravens Redskins Saints

Mikey Lewis

Neutral

Low Ball

Neutral

Seahawks

Tom Russell

Heavy Trader

Normal

Neutral Neutral

Steelers

Kyle Corbert

Neutral

Low Ball

Johnny Paycheck

Light Trader

Normal

Neutral

Texans

Riley Smithe

Light Trader

Normal

Acquire Future Picks

Vikings

Ron Spielberg

Light Trader

Low Ball

Neutral

Titans

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When it rains during a game on natural grass, you’ll see the middle of the field get muddy as the game progresses.

sign a free agent if their Team Roadmap projects that the team would be better off by drafting a player instead. The current state of each CPU team’s salary cap also affects this strategy; essentially, the more room under the salary cap, the more “freedom” a team will have to pursue free agents. (Team Roadmaps are also affected by Team Philosophies: A team that historically prefers to rebuild through draft picks rather than free agency will tend to stick to that approach.) Negotiations with the CPU (whether TEAM

it’s a proposed trade with a GM or a contract dispute with a player) will also be affected by the personalities of those you have to deal with. 4. Study Your Losses: You will not emerge as the winner in every trade negotiation you participate in. (In fact, if you find yourself winning too many trade deals, you’re probably destroying your salary cap space in the long term.) After trade negotiations end for a player, carefully check the ticker for which team made the winning bid— and more importantly, what they gave

up. Of course, needs vary from team to team, so one franchise may give up more if they really need that player. Still, it’ll give you an idea of how CPU teams value players and what they’ll give up to land players of specific talent levels.

CPU DEFAULT PHILOSOPHIES

TRADING, NEGOTIATION AND PLAYER ROADMAPS

The charts on these two pages show the GMs for each team and their default CPU trading, negotiation and Player Roadmap philosophies.

NEGOTIATION TONE

COUNTERING IN NEGOTIATION

SPENDING MONEY PHILOSOPHY

PLAYER ROADMAP PHILO.

Haggle

Cheap

Spend on 3 Biggest Needs

Favor Grade

Give In To Player Demands

Normal

Distribute Evenly

Favor Grade

Bills

Low Ball

Normal

Spend on Biggest Need

Favor Role

Broncos

Low Ball

Normal

Spend on 2 Biggest Needs

Favor Grade

Browns

Overpay

Generous

Spend on 2 Biggest Needs

Favor Role

Bucs

Overpay

Normal

Distribute Evenly

Favor Grade

Cardinals

Low Ball

Cheap

Spend on 3 Biggest Needs

Favor Contract

Chargers

Haggle

Normal

Spend on 3 Biggest Needs

Favor Grade

Chiefs

Low Ball

Normal

Distribute Evenly

Favor Role

Colts

Overpay

Normal

Distribute Evenly

Favor Play Knowledge

Cowboys

Overpay

Generous

Spend on Biggest Need

Favor Grade

Dolphins

Overpay

Generous

Spend on Biggest Need

Favor Grade

Haggle

Cheap

Spend on 3 Biggest Needs

Favor Grade

Give In To Player Demands

Normal

Spend on 2 Biggest Needs

Favor Upside

Overpay

Generous

Spend on Biggest Need

Favor Grade

Giants

Overpay

Normal

Distribute Evenly

Favor Grade

Jaguars

Low Ball

Cheap

Spend on 3 Biggest Needs

Favor Grade

Bears Bengals

Eagles Falcons 49ers

Jets

Give In To Player Demands

Normal

Distribute Evenly

Favor Grade

Overpay

Normal

Spend on 2 Biggest Needs

Favor Role Favor Grade

Lions Packers

Low Ball

Cheap

Distribute Evenly

Give In To Player Demands

Normal

Spend on 3 Biggest Needs

Favor Grade

Haggle

Cheap

Spend on 2 Biggest Needs

Favor Play Knowledge

Raiders

Overpay

Generous

Distribute Evenly

Favor Upside

Rams

Low Ball

Cheap

Spend on 2 Biggest Needs

Favor Grade

Panthers Patriots

Ravens

Give In To Player Demands

Normal

Spend on 2 Biggest Needs

Favor Upside

Redskins

Overpay

Generous

Spend on Biggest Need

Favor Grade

Saints

Low Ball

Cheap

Spend on 3 Biggest Needs

Favor Grade

Seahawks Give In To Player Demands

Normal

Spend on 2 Biggest Needs

Favor Grade

Steelers

Low Ball

Cheap

Distribute Evenly

Favor Grade

Titans

Low Ball

Cheap

Distribute Evenly

Favor Upside

Texans

Give In To Player Demands

Normal

Spend on Biggest Need

Favor Role

Vikings

Give In To Player Demands

Generous

Spend on 2 Biggest Needs

Favor Grade

THE OFF-SEASON

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CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS While trades are between you and another team, a contract negotiation is between you and another player. When a Package Negotiations event begins, a screen will appear with a timer and a list of packages from least to most attractive. Every contract contains: • Total Value: The cost of the package, including extras. Some packages can list a higher total value but be considered “cheaper” depending on the signing bonus and/or incentives. • Length: How many years that player will be signed for. • Signing Bonus: The extra amount that goes to the player immediately; to minimize its salary cap impact, the bonus is prorated over the life of the contract. Try to limit big singing bonuses to your franchise superstars. Cutting or trading a player you gave a big signing bonus to will hurt your salary cap. • Incentive(s): Extra money paid per year only if certain conditions are met. Given two contracts of equal total value with no signing bonuses, GMs will prefer the one with incentives.

Incentives in contracts do not count into a player’s salary until they are met. At that point, they become part of the player’s salary for the year. Negotiations are similar to other trade-type events in that there’s a time limit involved, and either party can counteroffer, accept a proposed package or leave the negotiating table.

CONTRACT TACTICS

TIPS FOR SMOOTH NEGOTIATIONS

1. Personalities Matter: Negotiations are very different from player to player. Some players may walk away after one counteroffer, others won’t leave until the deal is done. Looking up their personality type before negotiating may help you understand their tactics. 2. Be Firm: Never overpay for a player. Try to calculate that player’s value (it may help to see how similar players on other teams are valued), and stick to it. Giving up too much too

When you view the details of a package, you can analyze how it will impact your salary cap in the years ahead. Most NFL salaries are back-loaded; in other words, more money is paid at the end of the contract.

easily just to wrap up negotiations will eventually eat up your salary cap. 3. Ignoring Players: Ignored negotiations will hurt your approval rating slightly, so be careful. Ignore negotiation requests only when you’re sure you don’t want that player back. 4. Timing: Players seeking longerlength contracts usually indicate that they would like to stay; players seeking shorter contracts are more likely to leave after their contracts expire.

PLAYER GRADES Those familiar with Madden NFL 09 will recognize many of the player attributes used to evaluate players. However, NFL Head Coach 09 features some additional attributes, and players are evaluated under a new grade system that mirrors how NFL scouts grade players. Players are graded in athletic and intangible abilities, production, durability, learning ability, potential and size. (Production is a noteworthy inclusion, because it takes into account players who may have talent but haven’t yet produced on the field, or for players who’ve been injured and haven’t put up numbers you’d normally expect.) Other factors include how much a player knows the playbook, how expensive his contract is relative to his talent level, and how much upside potential remains to be discovered. Those various grades are weighted to

Every player has a potential rating that he can progress up to. That’s done through practice time, playing time and game performance. That rating determines how good he’ll get at the peak of his career, assuming he stays healthy. The only two things that can increase potential are a coach’s special skills or Game Changer events.

make up an overall grade that will vary from franchise to franchise depending on the type of players the coach needs to match the team philosophy. Some of the more important grades include: • The Intangibles Grade is determined by attributes such as ball carrier vision, man-to-man pass coverage or throw accuracy. • The Athletic Grade is determined

You can check grades by looking at each player’s card from the Roster screen.

by physical attributes such as speed, agility or throw power. • The Durability Grade is determined by the player’s health at each body part. • The Potential Grade is determined by the player’s maximum abilities. This is by far the most important stat to focus on. Older players won’t have a lot of potential.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

‘Your goal is to only pick in the top 10 once. When you’re there, you’ve got to make it work.’

—Tony Dungy on the importance of making the most of a top-10 draft pick

THE NFL DRAFT ABOUT THE DRAFT

SCOUTING PLAYERS

INDIVIDUAL WORKOUTS

TRADING UP OR DOWN

DRAFT TACTICS

THE FUTURE 50

CPU DRAFT PHILOSOPHY

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ABOUT THE DRAFT The NFL Draft is how your team will discover its next superstars. During your career, you’ll be able to scout, evaluate and draft from a pool of more than 20,000 rookies with unique ratings, stories and personalities. Just like in the real NFL, the draft will be full of surprises: You’ll get your first-round busts and your sixth-round surprises, and it’ll be your job to separate the wheat from the chaff. The NFL Draft consists of seven rounds over two days. The first day comprises rounds 1 and 2. The second day covers rounds 3 through 7. There is a time limit (which varies between 5 and 10 minutes depending on the round) for each team “on the clock” to make their draft move.

EVENTS BEFORE THE DRAFT text. OFF-SEASON DRAFT EVENTS

Draft Board: The Draft Board lists all the draft picks from highest overall to lowest; you can also screen by position. Move the players up and down the board as you see fit. Press the X button (Square on PS3) to review the details of a specific prospect. Mock Draft: You’ll occasionally review your Mock Draft during the off-season. The Mock Draft projects which players each franchise will draft in the first round. This will give you some sense of the players who’ll be unavailable by the time your first draft slot rolls around.

SEASON GOALS & THE DRAFT text. MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR DRAFT PICKS

Just prior to the draft, your GM or team owner will probably throw out some new season goals specifically when it comes to drafting players, such as finding a sleeper pick in a late round or avoiding a bust. Depending on how well you’ve scouted prior to the draft, your goals may be easy or difficult to reach. It is important to try and achieve those goals—they’ll benefit your team as well as your career.

ASK EA SPORTS Will there be some definitive way to tell a draft bust or a gem? Our scouting and draft are set up pretty differently than anything you’ve seen before. Players get grades (just like scouts give), and they are then sorted by overall grade. For 2008, Darren McFadden has a grade of 99, Chris Long is a 98 and Glenn Dorsey is a 97. We do have busts and gems, and we can have those players drafted in the top 5 or at the end of the 7th round. The easiest way to find out how good a player will be is to scout him in an individual workout— that is the only way to unlock that draft pick’s true potential for growth (assuming he stays healthy).

The main draft screen features three data screens that constantly change to give you the latest info on the draft as well as the team on the clock (the upper right corner).

When your pick rolls around, your GM and staff will usually recommend a specific player. Your Approval Rating will probably suffer if you don’t follow their suggestion—but the final choice is always up to you.

During the NFL Draft, you’ll have the optional chance to “pick the pick” when not on the clock. If you can guess who the team on the clock will draft, you’ll get an approval rating boost.

DRAFT text. DAYS

SURVIVING DRAFT WEEKEND

When the first draft day begins, you have the option of running through it or simulating that day. Drafting occurs in real time, but you can “speed up the pace” by selecting Advance Pick in the Clipboard. You can also review the Previous Pick in the Clipboard. To simulate any part of the draft, navigate to Draft > Advance Draft. You’ll have multiple options to choose from.

When going through players to draft, press the X button (Square on PS3) to show details of a given player, including scouting details (pluses and minuses), stats, and comparison to a current NFL player. The clock will keep ticking, so use your time wisely. When it comes to choosing a player, always focus on either team needs, team goals or best available talent. You’ll be better prepared if you create a list of “wanted” players in advance. You’ll also get a chance to trade up or down, which is a topic covered later in this section. A Draft Recap appears at the end of each round; the draft selection process continues from the 1st through the 7th round until all draft picks are mode.

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SCOUTING PLAYERS Scouting is all about unlocking as much information as you can about a player to discover their true overall rating and potential. The easiest way to determine a player’s ultimate potential is to scout him in an Individual Workout. That workout unlocks his potential grade, which basically tells you how good he could become if he has a productive career and stays healthy. Another key metric to check is a player’s Learning Grade, which plays a major role in determining how well he can learn your playbook. Some rookies come in with a very high Learning Grade, while others come in with a very low rating with the potential to get much better. Other rookies will just never improve; of course, those are players to avoid or cut. Your GM’s skills play a major role in scouting. The better his scouting skill level, the better this scouting ability— both in quantity of players scouted and amount of info unlocked. If you have a great GM, he may have special skills that reveal even more player data than an average GM can. These key events during the offseason will help you discover the player info you’ll need for draft day.

SENIOR ALL-STAR GAME THE FIRST SCOUTING OPPORTUNITY

The Senior All-Star Game is much like the Pro Bowl: The top college seniors play in an exhibition game once the college season is completed. Obviously, this game is heavily attended by NFL scouts and is the first event in the off-season scouting process. Players you scout at this game will have their intangible attributes unlocked, including Awareness (arguably the most important intangible stat). You will get to scout players at various positions, so focus on players likely to still be on the draft board when your first and second picks take place. The player list displays some key information about each player, including name, player position, school, percent of teams that have scouted this player (an indicator of interest level), and overall score. (The school will be important to remember if you plan to do addition-

THE NFL DRAFT

When scouting, choosing a player by pressing the A button (X button on PS3) moves him to your team’s selected list. If you change your mind, you can remove a player by pressing the A button (X button on PS3) on that player in your selected list.

al scouting during that school’s scheduled Pro Day.) The number of players available to scout will be shown at the top of the player list. That number is based on your GM’s scouting ability for each position.

NFL COMBINE A YEARLY TRADITION

The NFL Combine is where top draft prospects participate in a series of athletic tests, workouts, drills and interviews for NFL scouts and the media who attend. Players at the combine automatically have their height, weight and size grade unlocked. They also have their athletic grade and attributes unlocked. Choosing to scout them also unlocks their personality type. Some players may choose not to attend the combine. Usually, these players are top draft choices who can only be scouted via Individual Workouts. The player list and player selection interface (to add and remove players off your list) is the same as that used for the Senior All-Star Game. Similar to the Senior All-Star game, the number of players available to scout will be shown at the top of the player list. That number is based on your GM’s skill level. Focus your player choices on positions of need and most likely selections still on the board based on your current draft pick spots. It is useless to scout players who’ll likely be off the board when your draft pick rolls around unless you definitely plan to trade up prior to or during the draft.

To get more information about the prospects at each school for Pro Day, press the X button (Square on PS3). Remember, you can only pick one school, so if you don’t have any idea which school to target, choose the school with the most prospects.

PRO DAYS

HIT THE COLLEGE CAMPUSES

Pro Days let you choose a college to visit and scout out potential players. This is a good way to discover sleeper picks. Players scouted during Pro Days unlock every piece of information except for potential. The Pro Days screen will show a list of schools to the left. Each will show the number of total prospects at that school, the percent of player data that you have unlocked, and the average rating of the scouted players there. There is also a green deadline timer bar at the top, so you’ll need to make your selection before time runs out. The schools you pick should be based upon your roster needs; don’t visit a school unless they have prospects at positions you plan to draft for. Another consideration is your GM skills: Some GMs have special skills that allow them to unlock more information when visiting small, mid-major and/or major universities. To Find out if your GM has any of those special skills, navigate to Team > Develop Staff in your clipboard and select your GM. Various schools hold their Pro Days at different times of the year to reduce scheduling conflicts. Each school holds only one Pro Day per off-season. If you want to visit two schools who are holding their Pro Days at the same time, you’ll have to make a tough decision as to which school has the more important prospects for you to scout.

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INDIVIDUAL WORKOUTS Individual Workouts give you a chance to unlock every single piece of scouting information about a player, including their potential. In fact, Individual Workouts are the only way to unlock a rookie’s potential. Obviously, you want to use your workout selections on your most likely first-round picks—not just your first choices but also back-up selections. You’ll be spending a lot of money on your top draft prospects, so you want as much information as possible to make an informed decision. It helps to have a list of likely draft candidates written down in advance of these workouts. You should also create as list of players who’ve had individual workouts for draft day so you know which prospects have their potential grades unlocked.

ASK EA SPORTS How do CPU teams handle the draft? When teams get into the draft, they’ll take a look at the highest graded players and draft the player that fills their most severe need. If no player fills that need, they’ll try to trade down. This solves problems with teams drafting players two rounds too early or seeing a kicker or FB get drafted in the 1st round.

The number of individual workouts you get is directly tied to your general manager’s scouting skill level. A GM with a Level 1 scouting skill can only have a few workouts while a Level 5 skill level can result in more than 20 individual workouts.

Don’t waste your workout selections on players that will likely be off the draft board before your first pick unless you plan to trade up on draft day.

TRADING UP OR DOWN Trading up and down is common during both draft days. CPU teams will follow their draft philosophies when it comes to trading up or down, but for your team, you’ll be in charge of making such moves. You can try to trade up at any time by selecting that option in your Clipboard. Trading up to very high draft picks almost always requires you to put players on the trading block that the other team would like to get (to do this, go to Draft > Trade Block). The CPU may approach you with proposed trades as well; those will appear as events in your Clipboard. When it’s your turn on the clock, you can select the Trade Down event to review what teams are offering for your selection level. Reasons for trading down in the draft include the following: 1. Another Team Snapped Up Your Top Prospect: If you expect your first alternate to be around for a while (i.e. at least through the next round), you can trade down and gamble with the expectation that your first alternate will still be available with your next pick.

Superstar players on your team may get upset when you draft a player at their position, so be careful during the draft.

2. Draft is Weak at Your Position of Need: No use using a 1st round pick on a player worth only a 2nd round pick. That may be the case if the draft class is weak at a needed position. 3. Your Salary Cap is Tight: A top draft pick might actually hurt you if you have no cap space to pay that player from. In those extreme cases, it might be best to trade down for future draft picks in years where you expect to have more cap space. There’s usually only one reason for trading up: You want a specific player and you’re scared that someone ahead of you is going to draft him. You’ll need to strike a deal with a franchise who picks ahead of that other team—and pray that your move will be enough to draft that prospect.

You usually won’t get a team to trade a high draft pick without putting some good players on the trading block.

When you Trade Down, you can tell any interested CPU team to increase their offer, request a specific package, end negotiations, or accept their initial offer.

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DRAFT TACTICS There is one key strategy to becoming a draft wizard: Always use your top three picks to fill your team’s three biggest holes that you won’t (or can’t) fill through free agency. You can easily view your top needs by looking at your Team Needs chart. During a draft, it’s tempting to forsake team needs to pick up a highprofile superstar—but if you’re already well-stocked at that position, it’ll create salary cap and depth chart headaches later on. In layman’s terms: Buy your meat and potatoes first before looking for gravy.

TEAM NEEDS AND SCOUTING HOW TO WORK THE SYSTEM

The great benefit of a strategy that focuses on Team Needs is that it gives you a road map to planning your scouting efforts: • Regular-season scouting: Scout positions of need at all schools (small, mid and major) to 100 percent, starting with your biggest need, then your second biggest, and so on. • Combine: Scout the highest-overall-rated prospects at your top two positions of need. (If you have a very low first draft pick, ignore the top one or two candidates if you think other teams will take them before you.) For Team Needs ranked third or lower, focus on players around 50 to 80 or so—in other words, the players that you expect will still be around after you make your first two draft picks. • Pro Days: Look at your Combine reports and write down the schools where the prospects for your top three needs attended (it helps to sort your Draft Board by position). Prioritize and visit those schools first. For Pro Days where none of those schools are listed, visit the school with the most prospects or the school with the highest average rating (your preference). Also keep an eye out for players you haven’t scouted at all (0 percent); if you’re a gambler, visit those schools to possibly discover hidden gems. • Individual Scouting: Save these workouts for players you project to draft in the first or second round. Since you won’t know which players are going to be available when your draft

THE NFL DRAFT

BOTTOM PICK TACTICS WHAT TO DO WHEN DATA IS MISSING

The Draft Preview screen shows the overall talent level at each position as well as a sleeper and overrated pick. For your positions of need, make note of each sleeper pick’s name and school, and try to scout each one rather thoroughly.

picks roll around, you’ll have to do some educated guesswork and create pools of key players (three or four per position of need) that you realistically expect to be available for those high draft picks. Many draft-related season goals require you to select players with high potential in the first round or two; there’s no reason to gamble on a player if you don’t know his Potential Grade.

TOP PICK TACTICS MANAGING YOUR FIRST PICKS

By draft day, you should have had Individual Workouts with (and Potential Grades for) the top players of need projected to still be available when your first two draft picks roll around. If you scouted properly, your staff’s first Draft Suggestion should match one of the players you had an Individual Workout with. Feel free to follow their suggestion to get a small approval boost from them. However, if your top two needs are relatively equally important, you can opt to use your first pick on the player with the biggest Potential Grade instead— especially if there’s a big grade gap. Ideally, by the time your second draft pick comes around (usually in the second round), you’ll have a player with a high Potential Grade still available to fill that second need. If you discovered a must-have player with a great Potential Grade, consider trading up to help guarantee that selection.

After your first two picks or so, you’ll begin to make draft choices with key player data missing, starting with Potential Grade. During the middle rounds, you’ll still be able to use a player’s Overall Grade to evaluate talent. However, at some point, you’ll find players with not enough scouted data to have a meaningful Overall Grade. You can always default to your staff’s Draft Suggestions, especially if they fill Team Needs. However, Staff Suggestions may not take into account poorly scouted players with hidden potential. During the final rounds when player data can be scarce, your picks will become educated guesses at best, pure gambles at worst. But here are some tips that may increase your chances of finding a sleeper: • Bypass Overall Grade: When data is missing, ignore the Overall Grade, as it can be misleading. Dig into the player’s scouting details instead to get the raw numbers. • Future 50: If the prospect’s name is listed in the Future 50 (the next section of this guide), that’s a dead giveaway of superstar potential. • NFL Comparison: Hidden draft gems always have a comparison to an elite superstar or top-grade player. • The “Double 90” or “Triple 90” rule: Look at the player’s Physical and Durability grades (two grades you’ll most likely have to work with). If both are in the 90s (especially high 90s), you might be on to something. For positions where size is beneficial, look at the Size Grade to make sure that’s in the 90s as well. Of course, a “Double 90” or “Triple 90” is not a guarantee of success, but at least you have found a player who is strong, big (if applicable) and healthy. If you can combine such stats with an extremely favorable NFL Comparison, you have the formula for a potential sleeper pick. A list of the top 2008 NFL prospects by position can be found in the Data Compendium section.

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THE FUTURE 50 We know the NFL superstars of today, and we can guess who’ll be the stars of tomorrow—but who’ll be the big stars five or 10 seasons from now? That’ll be your big challenge as your

career progresses, and you’ll need to rely on your instincts, skills and your GM to draft a future NFL Hall of Famer. Fortunately, the NFL Head Coach 09 development team has given us a

“crystal ball” that’ll give us a glimpse of some of the most promising youth prospects in the years to come. Here are 50 top-ranked prospects to keep an eye out for: The Future 50.

Boar Jackson 6’1” 224 lbs. Auburn

Patrick Boma 6’3” 319 lbs. NW Okla. St.

LeRon James 5’10” 222 lbs. Northern Arizona

Jack English 6’3” 229 lbs. Stanford

Dane Morrow 6’4” 218 lbs. Penn State

Early draft report: Boar Jackson got his name from his dad, who used to take him hunting in southern Alabama when he was a kid. Jackson is a nasty player that can either run over you, around you or through you.

Early draft report: Patrick Boma is a favorite of some scouts. He might have been overlooked by some scouts after playing at such a small school, but this kid is special.

Early draft report: LeRon James is the guy nobody knows anything about, but some scouts have a feeling that will change very soon.

Early draft report: Need a franchise quarterback? You just got one.

Early draft report: While every scout has been praising Jack English and Kelly James for the last nine months, one quarterback has quietly gone unnoticed.

He ran a 4.31 forty at the combine, benched 225 pounds 36 times and had a 38-inch vertical. Scouts have never seen a back this talented coming out of college. Boar isn’t some finesse back like Reggie Bush and he’s not a big bruiser like Brandon Jacobs. He’s somewhere in between, and that has to terrify defensive coordinators. Outlook: Could be best running back to come out in the draft in this game

After escaping war-torn Darfur as a child, his family settled in Oklahoma to provide a better life for Patrick and his brothers. He didn’t try out for organized football until his senior year and because of that, he wasn’t heavily recruited by the bigger colleges. Outlook: Could become a Pro Bowl player

This kid was dominant at Northern Arizona, finishing his career with 5,678 rushing yards. His greatest game came during his junior year when he rushed for 411 yards and seven touchdowns against Portland State. He’s got it all. Don’t be surprised if James is the premier back in the NFL in 2-3 years. Outlook: Could become the next LaDainian Tomlinson

Jack English is the type of player that only comes around once in a generation. His rocket arm, football IQ and poise remind every scout of another Stanford QB from the Class of ’83 (John Elway). English has real Hall of Fame potential. We’ll just have to see how many Super Bowls he wins before he gets there. Outlook: Could become the next John Elway

Scouts have heard comments about his throwing motion, his mobility, you name it … but there’s definitely something special about this kid. He reminds scouts a lot of a young quarterback out of Pitt that went on to become the greatest player in Miami Dolphins history. Outlook: Could become the next Dan Marino

The profiles of the players on the following pages illustrate the level of realism and detail that the game developers went to when creating the game’s 20,000-plus future draft prospects.

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Numbers on all players’ NFL jerseys must be at least eight inches high and four inches wide.

Kelly James 6’3” 225 lbs. Miami Early draft report: Kelly James may be getting overshadowed by the Jack English hype machine, but he’s just as talented.

He’s led Miami to some huge wins in his career, and he’s got all the tools to be an elite player in this league. He may need a year or two to develop, but no one will be surprised to see him in the Pro Bowl in the very near future. Outlook: Could become the next Jim Kelly

Javon Jackson 6’7” 327 lbs. Florida

Early draft report:

Jackson possesses enormous size. Jackson did not allow any sacks throughout his entire college career with the Gators. He’s the premier pass blocking tackle in the draft. Jackson has excellent quickness to prevent rushers getting around him, and he presents excellent poise in the pocket. During his freshman season, Jackson shifted from DT to the offensive side of the ball because his coaches needed to fill a gap with an injuryplagued line. He’s received All-SEC honors each season, and he was named SEC Player of the Year. Expect him to start on Sundays. Outlook: Could become the next great left tackle similar to Orlando Pace

THE NFL DRAFT

Juran Riley 6’0” 204 lbs. Texas

Jake Scott 6’3” 221 lbs. Texas State

Jamarion Bellows 6’0” 190 lbs. Grand Valley St.

Early draft report: Juran Riley played his entire career for the Longhorns at cornerback, but he might be better suited for safety in the NFL.

Early draft report: Jake Scott played all four years at Texas State University, which is less than an hour from the University of Texas.

Early draft report: This could be a draft steal that could be remembered for years to come.

The 6-foot-tall, 204-pound corner is very physical and aggressive. He provides a tough match-up for receivers at the line of scrimmage.

Coming out of high school, Jake received only one scholarship offer. After signing his letter of intent, he proceeded to break seven school passing records.

He has very good hands, he’s fast, and he is very solid in run support. Riley does tend to be a little bit inconsistent, but most of the time he’s a very solid defender. He is projected to be a very good lockdown corner for any NFL squad.

Jake Scott has the size, mental capacity and arm to be a star in the NFL. Does it really matter what school he went to? Outlook: Could be an amazing lateround sleeper pick

Bellows is a 6’0”, 190-pound receiver out of tiny Grand Valley State University in Allendale, Mich., but he’s got the ability to start and maybe even dominate in the NFL. He wasn’t invited to the combine or the Senior All-Star Game. Few scouts have even seen him play in person. Outlook: Could be a big sleeper pick; reminds scouts of a smaller version of Terrell Owens

Outlook: Very good run-stopping corner similar to Quentin Jammer

Use the Draft Class Score to review the quality of prospective players at each position. These grades will change for every new draft class.

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THE FUTURE 50 Mack ‘Truck’ Jackson 5’11” 226 lbs. New Mexico

Jemarcus Boone 6’2” 323 lbs. UCF

Ozzie Jones 5’7” 190 lbs. Oklahoma State

Dravannti Jordan 6’1” 208 lbs. Notre Dame

Cooper Reno 6’3” 229 lbs. UNLV

Early draft report: You know who Mack Jackson reminds scouts of? Brian Urlacher.

Early draft report: Jemarcus Boone is a defensive tackle out of the University of Central Florida. There hasn’t been this much hype about a player from UCF since Daunte Culpepper.

Early draft report: Ozzie Jones reminds many of another running back out of Oklahoma State who turned out to be one of the best ever: Barry Sanders.

Early draft report: Dravannti Jordan is a track star turned WR out of Notre Dame. He might become the fastest player in the NFL.

Early draft report: Cooper Reno reminds scouts so much of Peyton Manning that it’s scary.

MLB

Mack “Truck” Jackson is 5’11”, 226 pounds, and very proud to have gone to the same school that his idol attended. It’s uncanny how similar he is to the Bears Pro Bowler. He’s smart, mean and flies to the ball like a bee to honey. He never returned any kicks for the Lobos, but when he hit somebody, you heard it in the upper deck. Outlook: Could become the next Brian Urlacher

Boone can beat you in a variety of ways; he doesn’t have any one particular strength. He is very solid against the run, very good in the pass rush, and is really just an overall solid player. Boone was a very respected player at UCF and a unanimous AllAmerican selection in his final two years at the school. The junior wisely decided to pass up his senior year for a chance to be a top pick in this year’s draft. Outlook: Could become a great defensive tackle

He is listed at 5’7” and 190 pounds, but he may even be shorter than that. He is very fast and agile, and he has great hands coming out of the backfield. This guy can really make you miss. He’s a big homerun threat: He had 24 carries for more than 20 yards last season, and he can find the end zone between the tackles or as a return man. Some teams question this kid’s durability to be an every play back, but he has enough talent to be worth a top draft pick. Outlook: Could become the next Barry Sanders

He was clocked at a 4.19 at the combine in February; rumor has it that some scouts have clocked him at a 4.18. He has decent hands for such a fast guy, and he can go up and get the ball at its highest point. Jordan would be an elite prospect except for two issues. First, he can’t get off the line when pressed to save his life. Second, he’s going to spend most of his career in the training room. He’s missed all or part of the last four seasons, and he seems to get hurt every time he’s popped. If he stays healthy, he could be dangerous. Outlook: Very fast but injury-prone

He’s a tireless worker in the film room, has a very strong arm and his accuracy is unparalleled. A lot of scouts are split between him or Rob Lane being the best QB in the draft—but look beyond the arm strength and pay attention to his leadership skills. This is a guy who will never call out his teammates or complain about his salary. Bottom line: Whichever team drafts Reno could wind up with a franchise QB for the next 15 years. Outlook: Could become the next Peyton Manning

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The first joint AFL-NFL draft took place in 1967, three years before the leagues officially merged in 1970.

Devin Gilbert 6’5” 328 lbs. USC

Flash Gorden 6’5” 221 lbs. LSU

Darius Pryor 6’5” 221 lbs. Texas

Alex Hurst 6’5” 231 lbs. Alabama

Demetrius Grimes 6’0” 190 lbs. Arkansas

Early draft report: Devin Gilbert, the next great defensive tackle from the acclaimed USC Trojan program, is an elite pass rushing force.

Early draft report: Could this kid have a better name? It’s almost like his parents knew he’d be fast when he was born. However he got his name, it fits.

Early draft report: Pryor came back and had a solid senior year after a subpar junior season. Last year’s loss against Oklahoma haunted him for the rest of the season, and he seemed to have trouble shaking off that pick he threw to first-round pick Rakeem Jordan.

Early draft report: Alex Hurst passed up millions after his Heisman Trophy-winning junior year to come back and have one more shot at winning a national championship.

Early draft report: Demetrius Grimes from Arkansas is the premier corner in the draft.

He’s an explosive interior lineman who plays with a relentless motor. He has an amazing first step, possesses a closing burst of speed, and gets a lot of penetration in the backfield. He’s also quick to read the play and locate the ball. His sub-4.6 forty was one of the fastest times ever recorded for a defensive tackle. This guy has the potential to be one of the most dominant defensive tackles ever. Outlook: Projected to become an elite pass-rushing DT

The only thing to remember here is speed. He ran a 4.19 at the combine and a 4.18 at his Pro Day. He’s got good size at 6’5” and 221 pounds, and he can jump out of the room. In fact, he had a 39 inch vertical at the combine, too. The only issue scouts have heard about him is his attitude at times. As long as a team puts him in the right environment, he should be fine. Outlook: With 99 speed and 99 acceleration, this is a lightning-fast wide receiver

This year, he avenged those demons by beating OU and Texas A&M, really showing poise under pressure. He grades out as a 2nd rounder, but I think he has the potential to be a good QB in this league. Outlook: A very mobile QB with a playing style similar to Vince Young

Hurst has great poise back in the pocket, a great arm, and is incredibly accurate on his passes. The 6’5” quarterback was slated to be a top three pick in last year’s draft, and he’s expected to draft very high once again. Hurst is your typical dropback passer with very limited mobility, but has an incredible sense under pressure. He is a QB you could build a franchise around. Outlook: Expected to develop into a great QB

While this is open to debate, in general, these are the most valuable positions when it comes to drafting solely on talent: Quarterback, offensive (left) tackle, defensive end. If you were building a team from scratch, you’d use your top three picks on these positions in order.

THE NFL DRAFT

At Arkansas, Grimes showed his versatility by spending time on both sides of the ball at receiver and cornerback, and he was arguably the best punt returner in the nation. His college career reminds many of Charles Woodson. He has great speed and acceleration, excellent hands, and he can leap out of the stadium. His only setback is that he tore his ACL in both knees during his college career. Scouts have watched him at some private workouts, and it hasn’t seemed to have slowed him down at all. Outlook: Could develop into a dominant shutdown corner similar to Champ Bailey

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THE FUTURE 50 Talon Tolliver 6’3” 218 lbs. San Diego State

Jermail Rucker 6’4” 238 lbs. Cincinnati

John Onken 6’3” 311 lbs. Texas A&M

Blake Onken 6’3” 308 lbs. Texas A&M

Quincy Sims 6’6” 300 lbs. Miami

Early draft report: At first glance, Tolliver looks like every other kid from the O.C. (Orange County, Calif.), but when you look past the surfer haircut and laid-back demeanor, you’ll find a fierce competitor who’s been overlooked his entire life.

Early draft report: Jermail Rucker is the kind of guy you’d want your sister to marry. He’s the ultimate team player and a great guy. Fans have seen Rucker working in soup kitchens and delivering meals to the homeless all over Cincinnati. All that and he’s got talent, too?

Early draft report: John Onken, twin brother of Blake Onken, started all four years on the offensive line at Texas A&M.

Early draft report: Like his brother John, Blake started all four years on the offensive line at Texas A&M.

He’s a huge kid at 6’3” and 311 pounds. When he makes an impact, you always feel it. He grew up in Austin, Texas, and it was expected that he would go to the University of Texas with his brother, but he changed his mind at the last minute on signing day. John and his brother were quite a tandem on the line in College Station, paving the way for three straight 1,000-yard rushers.

He’s slightly smaller than his brother at 6’3”, 308 pounds, but he’s just as good.

Early draft report: Quincy Sims is possibly the best defensive tackle to ever come out of college into the NFL. There really isn’t any knock on him. He has good size at 6’6” and 300 pounds, and he has freakish speed for his frame, running in the low 4.7 range.

Tolliver was raised by his grandparents after his mother abandoned him at age 3. He grew up on the beach, surfing every spare moment of the day. Coming out of high school, he only received one scholarship offer, and that was from nearby San Diego State. He took the scholarship and started all four years for the Aztecs. This is a good pick; he has a chance to shine in the NFL. Outlook: Sleeperpick QB who might become really good

His stock rose dramatically after he ran a 4.49 at the combine and notched a 36-inch vertical. The biggest positive was his interviews, though. A few teams told me they’d be shocked to see Rucker ever hold out for a bigger deal or complain about playing time. Outlook: Could become the next Antonio Gates

Outlook: A tough, hard nosed lineman who should have a long, productive career in the NFL

He loved the Texas Longhorns growing up, and it’s still a shock that he went to Texas A&M as a freshman. Blake has a great first step, and he can pack a powerful punch in a phone booth. Outlook: Just like his brother, should have a long, productive 10-12 year career as an NFL lineman

A “sleeper” draft pick is a player with possible potential to be a great player, but is not expected to draft high because he is not well known and/or was poorly scouted. By definition, sleepers are always more valuable than the draft position they’re selected at.

He can play any position on the defensive line. He is quick enough to beat defenders on the outside, and strong enough to push back guards on the inside. He even has enough awareness to drop back into coverage on a zone blitz if he needs to. He is a huge trash talker, but there is no one on the field who can back it up more. Outlook: Will likely be an awesome DT. Expect him to be one of the highest-paid draft picks in the history of the league

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

In 1962, the Cleveland Browns drafted John Havlicek in the seventh round, who later became a Hall of Fame player … in the National Basketball Association (playing for the Boston Celtics).

Peter Boma 6’4” 316 lbs. NW Oklahoma St.

Tristan Riley 6’5” 215 lbs. Ole Miss

Jelani Okoye 6’4” 333 lbs. Oregon State

Donsay Smith 5’11” 240 lbs. Georgia Southern

Darby Miles 6’0” 225 lbs. Missouri

Early draft report: Peter Boma, little brother of NFL lineman Patrick Boma, is a great pick.

Early draft report: Tristan Riley is a kid who many compare to Tom Brady.

Early draft report: Jelani Okoye has only been playing organized football for three years, and he’s already projected as a top 10 pick in the draft. Jelani is an amazing physical specimen with great speed, a great burst, good strength, and a non-stop motor.

Early draft report: Donsay Smith is a bulldozer of a running back out of Georgia Southern. This kid is as tough as they come. A couple years ago, he was breaking up a fight outside of campus and he was hit with a wooden bat. The bat took most of the punishment and broke in two. Smith wasn’t injured.

Early draft report: Darby “Run for” Miles has been ready for the NFL since his freshman year. He was a two-time Heisman runner-up.

It’s great to see kids like Boma make it to the NFL. He really put on a show during his Pro Day, wowing scouts with his athleticism and strength.

Riley never really got to show what he was made of at Ole Miss, but when he did play, he showed the intangibles required to play the quarterback position in the NFL. He’s accurate, he’s got a strong enough arm, and his coaches say he’s the smartest player they’ve ever been around.

Outlook: Expected to become a solid offensive lineman

Outlook: Could become the next Tom Brady

He reminds scouts a lot of his older brother. Patrick is a little stronger, but Peter has better footwork on passing downs.

If you want to draft the best talent regardless of position, choose a player shown on the Best Available screen. But be warned: You could be taking a major risk if you didn’t adequately scout that prospect.

THE NFL DRAFT

At 6’4” and a daunting 333 pounds, Jelani was spotted in the weight room by one of the assistants at Oregon State, and he was asked to walk on to the team. By his sophomore year, he was getting some playing time and learning the offense, and last year he burst onto the scene, going from a raw prospect to a polished football player. Jelani will be a nightmare for defenders trying to bring him down in the NFL. Outlook: Could become the next Christian Okoye

He possesses great speed and is very hard to bring down. At the 1-AA level, it wasn’t unusual to see him carrying 3 or 4 defenders up the field. He’s a great player with a good work ethic, and he should be able to join any franchise and become a solid starter at running back. Outlook: Expected to emerge as a big-bruiser-type running back

As a freshman, he eclipsed 1,500 yards, and in his senior year he passed the 2,000 yard plateau. He’s a three-time Big 12 Player of the Year, and he’s a very dangerous runner. Darby has a good frame at 6 feet and 225 pounds. He has great speed, and he will hit you like a train. He was ruled academically ineligible during his sophomore year, and if not for that, he probably would’ve left school as the nation’s all-time career rushing leader. There’s no doubt that he is ready right now to make an impact for a team needing an every-down running back. Outlook: Could be an excellent HB

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THE FUTURE 50 Marcus Jackson 5’11” 208 lbs. Colorado Early draft report: Marcus Jackson is one half of the twin brother combo from Colorado.

He is an amazing prospect at running back. He’s got great vision, and that allows him to choose a hole and get through it quickly. Jackson has great hands, and he’s a weapon catching the ball out of the backfield. Even though he’s a little undersized, Marcus can handle the ball 25-30 times a game. He did it his entire career at Boulder, and he should be able to do it in the NFL. Both Marcus and JerMarcus have star written all over them. Outlook: Expected to become a great running back

JerMarcus Jackson 6’3” 245 lbs. Colorado

LOLB

Early draft report:

JerMarcus Jackson is the other half of the twin brother combo from Colorado. He is also an amazing prospect. He played outside linebacker for the Buffaloes while his brother played running back. Jackson led the Big 12 in tackles last year, and his forced fumble in the Big 12 Championship game sealed the victory. The scary thing about JerMarcus is his athletic ability. He’s as fast as his twin brother, but he plays linebacker. Outlook: Expected to become a great linebacker

Kaven Duncan 6’3” 229 lbs. Nevada

Maceo Sweetney 6’0” 225 lbs. Tennessee

Mike Zazzali 6’3” 235 lbs. Arizona

Early draft report: Kaven Duncan, son of former NFL QB Dan Duncan, is a great pick.

Early draft report: A talented threedown back, Maceo Sweetney from Tennessee is the complete package at tailback.

Early draft report: Arizona’s Mike Zazzali is a truly outstanding athlete. He’s an unbelievably strong runner who will run through linebackers’ tackles on one play, then throw a 50-yard rope to the receiver for a TD on the next.

Duncan won more games than any other QB at Nevada in his three years there, and he’s smart to have declared for the NFL draft. He’s got an above-average arm and he’s very accurate. The biggest positive with this kid is how he conducts himself off the field. Duncan studies film as much as Peyton Manning does, and he’s a very quick learner. This is a nice selection for a team that needs a quality starting QB. Outlook: Could be a quarterback to build a franchise around

Given the rise of multiple receiver sets in the NFL, your third (nickel) and fourth (dime) cornerbacks are becoming as valuable as your starters. You must draft for depth at corner to make sure your nickel package is a strength, not a weakness.

He is well built at 6 feet and 225 pounds. He has great break tackle power along with his game breaking speed and moves. He catches the ball out of the backfield very well, as evidenced by his 70 receptions and 950 yards last season. Sweetney is versatile, lined up at quarterback in high school and is actually a halfway decent passer. Look out for trick plays galore when Sweetney is lined up in the backfield. Outlook: Could emerge as the top RB in his draft class; playing style reminds many of LaDainian Tomlinson

His rushing skills at the QB position have really never been seen before at the pro level: 1,100 yards and 22 rushing scores to go along with his 25 passing scores. What Zazzali does is simply bull over defenders—he could even be effective as a short yardage runner. His technique needs some work, but that will come with pro coaching. Outlook: Lefthanded passer has a great arm—but can also truck defenders like a FB; a versatile scoring threat

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The most recent number two NFL Draft pick who’s also in the Pro Football Hall of Fame: Eric Dickerson (chosen in 1983).

Demario Waddell 6’1” 205 lbs. Washington

Travian Davis 6’9” 350 lbs. Florida

Drew Thompson 6’4” 225 lbs. UCLA

John Scotland 6’4” 210 lbs. Oklahoma

Antonio Boxx 6’2” 208 lbs. Tennessee

Early draft report: This Heisman Winner from Washington is a throwback player—a modern day iron man.

Early draft report: Travian Davis is the best offensive tackle prospect to come along since Orlando Pace from Ohio State in the 1997 NFL Draft.

Early draft report: Drew Thompson started all four years at UCLA and ended up as the career passing yard and touchdown leader of the Pac-10, breaking Matt Leinart’s longstanding records.

Early draft report: Due to the left shoulder blade injury John Scotland suffered in Oklahoma’s bowl game, he was not able to attend the NFL Combine, which has hurt his draft stock. Before the injury, Scotland had already announced his intentions of entering the draft. Most doctors think the injury will have little to no longterm effects on his non-throwing arm.

Early draft report: Antonio Boxx (or “A-Boxx” as all of the Tennessee internet message boards call him) is an elite NFL safety prospect with his 4.4 speed and ferocious hitting reputation.

CB/WR

Starring at four roles this season, his primary job was at cornerback. With six interceptions, the Huskies led the Pac-10 in passing defense. His offensive starting job was at the X receiver. He tallied 45 catches, 800 yards and 9 touchdowns. Waddell was also a starting kickoff and punt returner; combined four return TDs.

An absolute monster in terms of size and quickness at 6’9”, 350 lbs., and freakish, sub-5.0 speed, Davis may be one of the best athletes in NFL Draft history. He’s excellent at using his long arms and strong hands against any type of pass rusher. Outlook: Could become the next Orlando Pace

Thompson spurned the NFL last year after his junior season, saying he wanted to bring a national championship back to UCLA. He fulfilled that promise by taking UCLA to the championship game and taking home MVP honors.

Waddell does it all; he has been telling GMs that he wants to play both sides of the ball.

With his arm and leadership skills, Thompson will be a multiple Pro Bowl type of NFL QB when it is all said and done.

Outlook: Could wind up as a star on both offense and defense; could fill roles of WR, CB, KR and/or PR

Outlook: Great senior QB prospect; complete package with no weaknesses

THE NFL DRAFT

Scotland has a huge arm and looked like one of the best QB prospects around despite being a redshirt sophomore.

Boxx was famous in Tennessee for going through eight or nine helmets from the hard-hitting he was dishing out during games. Outlook: Promising big-hit safety; just make sure to buy him extra helmets

He will be a fun player to watch throughout his NFL career—if he stays healthy. Outlook: Big risk as a draft pick due to injury history, but still has huge upside

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THE FUTURE 50 Enoka Oshinowo 7’0” 370 lbs. Nebraska

Chad Gunn 6’5” 250 lbs. Texas Tech

Early draft report: Corn isn’t the only thing that grows tall in Nebraska: Once drafted, Oshinowo will officially become the tallest player in NFL history.

Early draft report: When you hear Texas Tech besides Chad Gunn’s resume, you might think inflated numbers due to the gimmick offensive scheme that only works at the college level. You’d be very wrong to make those assumptions with this particular Red Raider gunslinger.

Standing at 7’0” and weighing 370 lbs., Oshinowo will tower over even the tallest NFL defenders by almost half a foot. At Nebraska, he simply engulfed defenders at the point of attack and wore them down so much that Nebraska just steamrolled over their opponents late in the second half of games. Some scouts have a problem with Enoka’s weight— they actually want to put 20-30 more pounds on him. Enoka likes where he’s at now. He amazingly cracked a sub-5.0 forty; at the combine he had a 4.97. Outlook: Will be the tallest NFL player in history

He has a rocket launcher for a right arm and uses it to throw one of the best deep balls ever seen. The knock on Gunn is his lack of mobility; he’s not going to get away from many defensive ends. Still, that didn’t matter much when he threw for over 5,000 yards and 56 touchdowns last year, both of which led the nation. Outlook: Amazing arm from Texas Tech who broke all kinds of records— but will it translate into NFL success?

Cletis Parker 5’5” 175 lbs. LSU

Early draft report:

Cletis “The Gimmick” Parker stands only at 5’5”, so he is always going to be looked at as a specialty back. At LSU, “The Gimmick” nickname stuck after opposing SEC head coaches started to refer to Parker as a gimmick any time they were asked questions by the media about him. Parker had a great senior season with 1,400 total yards and 12 touchdowns. He’s got great hands out of the backfield as well. He is not your typical thirddown back, but his skills make him the ultimate weapon. He also logged a 4.30 speed at the combine—blazing fast quickness. Outlook: An even smaller version of an RB similar to Maurice Jones-Drew; has unbelievable moves

Vince McGrady 6’5” 275 lbs. Alabama

Jervonte Johnson 6’9” 245 lbs. San Diego State

Early draft report: Vince McGrady is an absolute monster at the MLB position with his 6’5”, 275-pound frame.

Early draft report: At 6 foot 9 inches, you might assume Jervonte Johnson starts on the San Diego State basketball team at power forward, but you’d be wrong: Johnson has been San Diego State’s breakout WR star this year, catching more than 65 balls for 1,000 yards and 12 scores.

MLB

McGrady is most often compared to former NFL Defensive Player of the Year Ray Lewis when scouts review his film. He is a very instinctive player; his play recognition is already at an elite NFL level. McGrady is a highenergy player who never leaves the field willingly. He was also voted by the players as Alabama’s defensive captain the last two seasons, which shows his leadership skills and the amount of respect his teammates gave him. Outlook: Could become even bigger and stronger than Ray Lewis at the peak of his career

He has emerged as the ultimate red-zone jumpball threat: it’s almost unfair to see Johnson lined up against a cornerback who’s almost a foot shorter than him. Johnson lacks top-end speed, but still managed to run under 4.6 at the combine, proving he can move awfully well for a big man. Outlook: Impressive receiver with unreal size; could line up as either a WR or TE

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The number one NFL Draft pick with the most Pro Bowl appearances is Bruce Smith of the Buffalo Bills (with 11), closely followed by John Elway (with 10).

Tee Morgan 5’8” 180 lbs. Tennessee

Vonteego Cross 6’6” 285 lbs. South Carolina

Phillip Okafor 6’2” 250 lbs. Texas A&M

Darrent Boulware 6’2” 215 lbs. Texas

J.J. Sunday 6’3” 215 lbs. Notre Dame

Early draft report: Four years ago, 16-year-old Tee Morgan was known as “TeeMorgan422” when he played Madden NFL 08 online. Tee was one of the best, winning competition after competition— including the biggest one of them all, the Madden Challenge. He now admits playing Madden helped him understand the basic concepts of the Cover 2 defense, which he in turn applied on the field in real life.

Early draft report: Vonteego Cross is a playmaking defensive end with an explosive first step and powerful bull rush move.

Early draft report: “Okafor the Great” is what Aggies call super sophomore running-back sensation Phillip Okafor.

Early draft report: Texas star wideout Darrent Boulware reminds scouts a lot of former Longhorns legend Roy Williams.

Early draft report: J.J. Sunday has been the guy since he was a midget football star in the 3rd grade.

South Carolina won the SEC title this year thanks to Cross and a suffocating defense that led the nation in sacks and turnovers. Cross led the team and the nation with 21 sacks. He was the emotional leader on the team, and he’s a workout warrior who is always the first and last to leave the gym.

When scouts saw the 6’2”, 250-pound back run a 4.42 at the combine, they almost fell out of the stands—the hype machine is rolling and for good reason.

He’s got great size, excellent straight-line speed, and he’s so strong that he cannot be pressed by corners.

Morgan now spends his time playing real football, and he locks down wide receivers that usually tower over him. He stands 5’8” at 180 pounds, which is not your prototype CB size, but his 4.22 in the 40-yard dash makes up for it.

Despite his success rushing the passer at South Carolina in his final season, the rest of his game is raw; he’s not much help against the run.

Outlook: Small but speedy prospect

THE NFL DRAFT

Outlook: Could be a future Hall of Famer if you can develop his run defense skills

Watch out for “Okafor the Great,” coming to an NFL stadium near you. Outlook: Some scouts have already compared him to Jerome Bettis; a power runner with tremendous speed

Boulware has excellent body control, and he can make some of the most acrobatic catches you’ve ever seen. He cemented his status as the #1 WR in the draft after an amazing New Year’s Day Bowl performance. His 12 catches for 220 yards and three touchdowns against the Florida Gators and AllAmerican corner Marcus Carroll told scouts that he deserved to be a top pick. Outlook: Could become the next Roy Williams

After excelling as a four-year starter at Notre Dame, Sunday has become very experienced in the country’s most visible, high-profile college program. He’s proven he can handle the pressure of being the face of a franchise as evidenced by his 41-5 career record as starting quarterback for the Irish. Sunday has delivered the TKO punch to opposing teams time and time again on Saturday afternoons—now it’s time for him to do it on Sunday. Outlook: Ideal QB prospect; most likely a #1 overall pick in the draft

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CPU DRAFT PHILOSOPHY The chart below lists the default CPU team philosophies for the 2008 season when it comes to the NFL Draft and scouting players. This is open to debate, but the best philosophy across the board is to draft based on need. It’s a good idea to manually adjust to that philosophy because scouting the best available players does you little good if you don’t plan on drafting them. Also, if you have a weak GM, the need to narrow your scouting focus becomes that much more important. TEAM Bears Bengals Bills Broncos

DRAFT PHILOSOPHY

Notable drafting trends for 2008 and beyond in the NFL include… Running Back Platooning: Unless you have a superstar RB, many teams are relying on more than one back. The backs often have contrasting playing styles (i.e. one will be a quick and speedy slasher, the other a powerful upthe-gut runner). By rotating RBs as the play situation dictates, you’ll have better suited personnel in the backfield. As an added bonus, this reduces wear and tear on your players. Drafting a group of specialized backs may enhance your run game more than sticking to a single back. Getting Bigger: Draft choices have gotten heavier at almost all positions. In 1988, the average player drafted was 231 pounds. In 2007, the average player was 243. QBs and WRs have also grown an inch taller on average.

DRAFT DAY TRADE PHILOSOPHY INDIVIDUAL WORKOUT PHILOSOPHY

REG. SEASON SCOUT FOCUS

Best Available

Trade Down

Scout Best Available

Mid-Major Schools

Need

Neutral

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Need

Neutral

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Best Available

Trade Up

Scout Best Available

Mid-Major Schools

Browns

Need

Trade Up

Scout Needs

Small Schools

Bucs

Need

Trade Down

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Cardinals

Need

Trade Down

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Chargers

Best Available

Trade Up

Scout Best Available

Mid-Major Schools

Chiefs

Best Available

Trade Down

Scout Best Available

Major Schools

Colts

Best Available

Trade Up

Scout Best Available

Needs

Cowboys

Need

Trade Down

Scout Needs

Mid-Major Schools

Dolphins

Best Available

Trade Down

Scout Best Available

Major Schools

Eagles

Best Available

Trade Up

Scout Best Available

Mid-Major Schools

Falcons

Need

Trade Down

Scout Best Available

Major Schools

49ers

Need

Neutral

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Giants

Need

Neutral

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Jaguars

Best Available

Neutral

Scout Needs

Small Schools

Jets

Best Available

Trade Up

Scout Best Available

Mid-Major Schools

Need

Neutral

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Lions Packers

Best Available

Trade Down

Scout Best Available

Major Schools

Panthers

Need

Neutral

Scout Needs

Mid-Major Schools

Patriots

Need

Trade Down

Scout Needs

Mid-Major Schools

Raiders

Need

Trade Down

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Rams

Need

Neutral

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Ravens

Best Available

Trade Down

Scout Best Available

Mid-Major Schools

Redskins

Best Available

Trade Down

Scout Best Available

Major Schools

Saints

Best Available

Neutral

Scout Best Available

Small Schools

Seahawks

Best Available

Neutral

Scout Best Available

Mid-Major Schools

Steelers

Need

Trade Up

Scout Needs

Small Schools

Titans

Need

Neutral

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Texans

Need

Neutral

Scout Needs

Major Schools

Vikings

Best Available

Neutral

Scout Needs

Small Schools

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

‘Once you get here, it doesn’t matter if you’re the No. 1 pick or a free agent. Everybody gets the same opportunity and hopefully they’ll take advantage of it.’

—Tony Dungy at the Colts 2008 rookie minicamp

THE PRE-SEASON OFF-SEASON EVENTS

DEVELOP STAFF

CUT DAYS

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PRE-SEASON EVENTS The pre-season begins at the end of July, roughly a week or two before your first pre-season game. If you’re starting a career at the pre-season, you’ll have the chance to start your team with the default roster, current roster or load a saved roster. Here are some of the various events that you’ll encounter during the preseason. Two specific events, Cut Days and Develop Staff, are featured as separate topics later in this section. Events related to game preparation and player health are covered in the Regular Season section.

NEW SEASON GOALS

SETTING BENCHMARKS FOR YOUR SEASON

The first task of the pre-season is to review any new Season Goals that appear during the pre-season. Goals can be viewed by one of four categories (hold down the LT button (L2 on PS3)), then use the directional stick to select: All Goals, Successful Goals, Failed Goals and Goals in Progress. The categories are fairly self-explanatory, and for those starting a career in the pre-season, the only goals available for view will be those in progress. Each goal consists of four items: 1. Description: A note from your team owner about what he or she would like to accomplish. 2. Action(s): Below the description is what you need to do to meet that goal. Depending on the goal, you may have multiple options. For instance, if

Some examples of goals include: • Execute a specific trade • Increase average play knowledge for a specific player • Add new plays to the playbook you need to update the playbook with new plays, you can create new plays or download them. 3. Upside: The green box shows what will happen to your approval rating. For instance, a “GM +40” means the approval rating of your GM will go up by 40 points if you meet the goal. 4. Deadline: The date you need to have this goal achieved. 5. Downside: The red box shows what will happen to your approval rating if you fail to meet your goal by the deadline. For instance, a “Players -20” means the approval rating of your players will go down by 20 points if you fail to meet the goal. If you have to prioritize goals, focus first on the ones with the most negative downside. Give lower priority to those with no downside (in other words, the penalty for failure is 0). Of course, your goals should also be prioritized by deadline as well. You will get an event notice when you fail to reach a goal.

Season Goals that appear in the pre-season usually involve adding plays to the playbook or increasing play knowledge for a specific player on your roster.

TRAINING CAMP INVITE

WHO’S ATTENDING YOUR TRAINING CAMP

This screen shows who’ll be attending your training camp this year. Attendees fall into two categories: 1. Rookies: You may or may yet have an idea of their potential or their skill levels just yet. It’ll be your job to find that information out as the season progresses. Rookies are denoted by a large ‘R’ in the upper right corner of their player profiles. 2. Veterans: You’ll have an idea of their potential right off the bat. Obviously, many of these players will be from your current squad. You can sort this list by attribute, playing position and category.

STAFF RECAP

REVIEWING YOUR HELP ON THE SIDELINES

The Staff Recap lets you review team by team the various staff moves done during the pre-season. If this is your first season as head coach, you probably won’t see much movement.

ROOKIE NEGOTIATIONS HOW TO AVOID HOLDOUTS

Rookie contract negotiations kick off before and during training camp. The higher the rookie was drafted, the more money he’ll expect: First-round draft picks can command multimillion-dollar signing bonuses (i.e. $30-40 million) while 7th rounders rate only the minimum total at best. In general, the bigger the contract,

Your GM is in charge of finding and inviting players (both undrafted rookies and unsigned free agent veterans) to fill out your training camp roster.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Once players start considering retirement, they can retire at any time in the offseason or pre-season.

the bigger the headache. Depending on the personality you’re dealing with, negotiations can break down quickly. When that occurs, the player will wait a week before returning to the negotiating table. If that occurs more than once, you’ll wind up with a holdout. The quicker you can get players into camp, the sooner they’ll learn the playbook, so it’s to your advantage to wrap up deals expeditiously. There is one very important strategy when it comes to rookie negotiations: They’ll always ask for way more than they deserve. In fact, most non-highprofile rookies deserve merely the lowest salary available. In such cases, play hardball in your initial rookie negotiation: Don’t budge and offer the lowest or second-lowest package twice in a row to see if the rookie will cave in. You can readjust your tactics if the player walks away immediately. It’s also a bad idea to finalize a deal with an unknown rookie until you unlock enough info about their stats and overall score to make an informed offer.

ASK EA SPORTS Will CPU teams evolve from one season to the next?

Most rookies don’t have negotiation leverage because they have yet to prove their potential. As a result, you can afford to offer only the minimum (or second) package—and stay firm.

Some elite coordinators may even demand that the CPU fire the rest of the coaching staff— and some NFL teams might comply.

PRE-SEASON PROMISE DEFINING SEASON EXPECTATIONS

The Pre-Season Promise is a conversation between you and the team owner about what you expect your team to accomplish this season. When this event appears, you get to see your current job status and your owner’s season expectation—consider the latter the “miminum” accepted performance level. Each promise shows an increase in your approval rating if you choose that given promise. Promises range from winning a certain amount of games (as little as 3 for struggling teams) to winning the Super Bowl. When choosing a promise, set realistic goals but try to pick one that exceeds your owner’s expectation: After all, the owner sets that bar for the CPU coach—and you can do better than that. Failing to meet this promise wil severely hurt your Approval Rating; if you’re on the hot seat, it may even get you fired.

THE PRE-SEASON

CPU teams will certainly change styles throughout your coach’s career. When a CPU team has a bad year, the owners will shake things up and bring in new coaches.

In addition to your owner’s current expectation for the season ahead, you’ll also get to see your current job status. If you’re on the hot seat, you’ll need to turn things around this season—you might not have a second season to work with.

Other coaches will bring in their personal playbooks and revamp their rosters to find players who fit in with the new system. As a result, your opponents will constantly evolve as the seasons progress.

PROGRESS REPORT UNLOCKED INFO

You have to keep a rookie around until the start of the regular season to unlock that player’s final Overall rating.

BOX SCORE

REVIEW YOUR PRE-SEASON GAMES

This event will appear after each pre-season game; you can review your game and player stats.

Before each Cut Day, you’ll get to review some of the stats your GM was able to unlock for rookies in training camp. The longer you keep a player in camp, the more information you’ll be able to discover. A player’s Overall rating may go up or down as more information on that player gets released.

PLAY CREATOR ADD TO YOUR PLAYBOOK

Your first opportunity to develop your playbook occurs after your first pre-season game. Although you’ll get additional opportunities in the regular season, if you have creating new plays as one of your Season Goals, take advantage of these chances to get closer to achieving those goals.

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DEVELOP STAFF One of the most important things to learn in NFL Head Coach 09 is that your assistant coaches and staff will make a great impact on your players’ development. The better your staff, the faster you’ll be able to turn a franchise around and improve players’ skills. For instance, for 2008 the Rams have an excellent wide receiver coach in Henry Ellard—among the league’s top five, in fact. A coach like Ellard boosts his receivers’ intangible ratings (i.e. route running and catching) during practices and enhances their progression. So how do you turn your WR coach into the next Henry Ellard? Skill Points are the key to developing not only your skills, but those of your coaching staff as well. Skill Points are earned through various accomplishments, such as game wins or outstanding player stats in a game (i.e. rush for 200 yards or pass for 400 yards). Specific coaching staff positions can earn points for special tasks: A GM who drafts a great player or a trainer who heals a key player quickly can earn points.

STAFF DEVELOPMENT

THE BUILDING BLOCKS FOR TRUE SUCCESS

Improve a player, and you get one better player. Improve a coach, and everyone that coach manages improves. It’s no wonder why staff development will play a crucial role during the season. When you evaluate your staff skills for the first time, there are some important things to look at: 1. Your Trainer’s Philosophy: This will help determine the type of recommendations you can expect from your trainer when evaluating health and fatigue reports. Pay careful attention to the last philosophy attribute: Injury Playing Status. You may need to manually adjust your injury and fatigue decisions based on how aggressive or conservative your trainer is. 2. Your General Manager’s Skills: Look especially hard at how well he can evaluate rookies and potential for given positions. Your scouting knowledge will come from your GM, so you need to evaluate how much info you’ll actually get from him.

Here’s how basic skills are rated from a scale of 1 to 5: Level 1: Poor (one of the worst) Level 2: Decent (not the worst but close to it) Level 3: Average (middle of the pack) Level 4: Good (does a great job) Level 5: Great (one of the best)

Whenever you or someone on your staff earns skill points, use them immediately, and focus on skills that address your team’s top priorities or compensate for your staff’s deficiencies. When it comes to basic skills, all coaching staff (excluding the GM and trainer) share similar skill categories such as Team Chemistry, Play Call, Strategy, Performance, Physical Development, Intangibles Development and Learning Development. The differences will be in the positions those skills apply to (i.e. the defensive back coach only has basic skills that apply to DBs). Here’s a breakdown of notable skills that other staff members possess:

OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR

DEFENSIVE COORDINATOR 23 SPECIAL SKILLS

All are based on defensive special skills similar to the head coach except for Play Stealing and Advanced Playbook Training (as previously shown).

SPECIAL TEAMS COACH 4 SPECIAL SKILLS

Kick Power Training 3,500 Skill Points Increases kicker and punter kicking power. Kick Accuracy Training 6,500 Skill Points Increases kicker and punter accuracy. Kicking Discipline 10,000 Skill Points Generally improves kicker and punter stats. Prerequisites: Kick Power Training and Kick Accuracy Training. Kick Return Discipline 7,500 Skill Points Gives the kick returner boosts to speed and ball carrying stats when returning a kickoff or punt.

POSITION COACHES SPECIAL SKILLS

Quarterback Coach • 7 Special Skills (all are based on skills similar to the head coach)

28 SPECIAL SKILLS

All are based on offensive special skills of the head coach except for the following:

Running Back Coach • 8 Special Skills (all are based on skills similar to the head coach)

Play Stealing 4,500 Skill Points Guarantees that the coordinator will be able to steal plays from the opponent at the end of every game. Prerequisite: Playbook Training.

Wide Receiver Coach • 7 Special Skills (all are based on skills similar to the head coach)

Advanced Playbook Training 22,500 Skill Points All newly created or downloaded plays come into the playbook at the Learned level for all players. Prerequisite: Play Stealing.

Offensive Line Coach • 7 Special Skills (all are based on skills similar to the head coach) Linebacker Coach • 8 Special Skills (all are based on skills similar to the head coach) Defensive Back Coach • 7 Special Skills (all are based on skills similar to the head coach)

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Super Bowl XLII (in which the Giants beat the Patriots 17-14) was the most-watched Super Bowl ever; it was seen by more than 97 million viewers. It broke the 1996 record of 94 million who watched the Cowboys defeat the Steelers in Super Bowl XXX.

GM DEVELOPMENT PROFILES HOW GMS DEVELOP THEIR OWN SKILLS

The chart below lists the default 2008 Team Philosophies for each team when it comes to career development. TEAM

Just like players, staff members may have limited potential when it comes to basic skills. You might need to replace staff members with very low potential.

When it comes to scouting and potential evaluation, many General Managers usually are very effective at analyzing certain positions—but less effective at others.

Defensive Line Coach • 5 Special Skills (all are based on skills similar to the head coach)

GENERAL MANAGER SKILLS AND SPECIAL SKILLS

Basic skills: • Trade Negotiation: Defines how effectively a GM negotiates trades. • Contract Negotiation: Defines how effectively a GM negotiates contracts. (The next two skills are broken down by position: QB, RB, WR, TE, OL, DL, LB, DB, P and K) • Potential Evaluation: Defines how accurately this GM will evaluate a player’s potential during scouting for a given position (10 total) • Rookie Scouting: Defines how well this GM scouts rookie players for a given position (10 total) Special skills: Accommodation 6,000 Skill Points Increases a free agent coach’s compatibility with the team going into the hiring process.

THE PRE-SEASON

CAREER DEVELOPMENT PHILO.

Bears

Balanced

Bengals

Balanced

Bills

Balanced

Broncos

Balanced

Browns

Balanced

Bucs

Balanced

Cardinals

Balanced

Chargers

Important Abilities First

Chiefs Colts

Balanced Important Abilities First

Cowboys

Balanced

Dolphins

Balanced

Small School Insider 4,000 Skill Points Unlocks additional scouting information about players from small schools during the scouting process.

Eagles

Balanced

Falcons

Balanced

49ers

Balanced

Giants

Balanced

Jaguars

Balanced

Mid Major School Insider 6,000 Skill Points Unlocks additional scouting info about players from mid-major schools during the scouting process.

Jets

Major School Insider 8,000 Skill Points Unlocks additional scouting information about players from major schools during the scouting process. Draft Intuition 10,000 Skill Points Instantly unlocks ALL scouting information for some top players in the Draft Class—occurs at the start of each scouting period. Prerequisites: Small School Insider, Mid Major School Insider and Major School Insider. Potential Intuition 10,000 Skill Points Adds the Potential Grade to the information unlocked about any players scouted during Pro Day Scouting in the off-season. Prerequisite: Draft Intuition.

Lions

Balanced Acquire Special Skills

Packers

Balanced

Panthers

Balanced

Patriots

Acquire Special Skills

Raiders

Balanced

Rams Ravens Redskins Saints Seahawks

Balanced Important Abilities First Balanced Balanced Acquire Special Skills

Steelers

Balanced

Titans

Balanced

Texans

Balanced

Vikings

Balanced

If you see the Develop Staff event pop up constantly, it’s probably because you have a large amount of unused Skill Points to spend.

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DEVELOP STAFF First Round Intuition 12,500 Skill Points Instantly unlocks ALL scouting information for every projected first round draft pick. Prerequisite: Potential Intuition.

TRAINER

SKILLS AND SPECIAL SKILLS

Basic skills: • Injury Evaluation: Defines how accurately the trainer can assess recovery length for a player’s injury. • Rehabilitation: Defines how long it will take injured players to recover from all types of injuries.

• Fatigue Recovery: Defines how efficiently the trainer assists players in recovering fatigue. Special Skills: Off Season Rehab 3,500 Skill Points Players will recover health faster during the off-season. Cardio Training Program 6,500 Skill Points Reduces the negative impact to a player’s stats that is normally associated with low levels of health and fatigue.

Long Term Rehabilitation 10,000 Skill Points Reduces or negates the permanent impact to a player’s attributes that can be caused by severe injuries. Prerequisites: Off Season Rehab and Cardio Training Program. Specialized Rehabilitation 10,000 Skill Points Players coming off of injury status will return with the injured body part at maximum health. Prerequisite: Long Term Rehabilitation.

CUT DAYS Cut Days are a difficult but necessary part of the NFL pre-season. Every head coach has to whittle down their roster as the pre-season progresses, and usually, players that can’t prove their potential in pre-season games are the first to go. Just like in real life, the longer your players stay in training camp, the more information you’ll unlock about each one. That’ll make your decisions a little easier as the pre-season progresses. As far as NFL Head Coach 09 goes, there are two approaches to Cut Days: 1. Cut Based on Overall Talent: This is the easiest approach; cut the

players with the lowest overall ratings. 2. Cut Based on Roster Breakdown: Press the Y button (or Triangle button on PS3) to display the Roster Breakdown. Make a list of positions where you have excess personnel, then cut the lowest-rated personnel at those positions. 3. Cut Based on GM Suggestions: Press the X button (or Square button on PS3) to get the GM’s suggestions. Remember that his suggestions may only be as good as his evaluation skills, so don’t treat them as gospel unless you have no clue who to cut. Regardless of what approach you

The Cut Players screen lists players and their positions in reverse order of their Overall grades. Each player listed shows how cap space be saved (or penalized) by cutting a given player.

take, make sure you don’t create any depth chart holes. Could you be cutting a “diamond in the rough” using either of these approaches? Possibly—but remember, you can only work with the best data at hand, even if it may not be complete. If you’re stuck with missing data, sort by athleticism or speed and weed out the lowest scores. If you find yourself cutting high draft picks, you must seriously re-evaluate how well you’re scouting your draft picks—it’s something that should never happen, and if it does, it could wreck any season goals related to the draft.

Press the Y button (Triangle on PS3) to view your team’s Roster Breakdown. This will help you figure out your depth at various positions—try not to cut below your desired levels.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

‘The finality of not playing any more, of the season just being over with no warning, is what makes the NFL playoffs so special. There are no second chances and no excuses accepted. But when you lose, there is nothing to do but look to next year.’ —Tony Dungy on the end of the 2007 season after a playoff loss to the San Diego Chargers

THE REGULAR SEASON WEEKLY GAMEPLAN

PLAYBOOK EVOLUTION

DEALING WITH INJURIES

OTHER EVENTS

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WEEKLY GAMEPLAN The weekly Gameplan is your key for preparing for your next opponent. Although you first develop Gameplans in the pre-season, it’s in the regular season where they really matter. Your Gameplan can focus on increasing the effectiveness of certain offensive or defensive plays, or in some cases, training a player you’ve invited to camp. Your Gameplan will dictate your Gameplan Agenda before a football game begins, so smart gameplan decisions are crucial to success.

DETERMINE YOUR GAMEPLAN MAPPING OUT YOUR STRATEGY

Before your next game, your general manager will assemble the coaching staff and outline your practice strategy for the current day. Choosing a gameplan prepares your team for the game, and it can give your players a boost when you choose to use it. The better your coaches are, the more opportunities you’ll get to use the Gameplan(s) during a game. The highest-level coordinator will let you use each Gameplan six times in a game, while the lowest-level coordinator will let you use each one only twice. Gameplan choices may include: • Train player: Increase playbook knowledge for a specific player. In training camp, this will usually involve a rookie. • Improve an offensive or defensive play: Increase the effectiveness as well as mastery of a specific offensive and defensive play or scheme. • Cancel practice: Rest your players to fix their health and fatigue. Some other considerations when determining your gameplan: 1. Select Gameplans that have the added benefit of achieving goals. For instance, work with specific players to increase their play knowledge. 2. Try to balance gameplan choices between offense and defense to avoid undue fatigue to a specific squad or player. Also balance choices so you have a good variety at your disposal. 3. Select Gameplans that exploit your opposing team’s weaknesses. For example, if your next opponent can’t stop the run, work on run plays. When the NFL Network cut-ins appear, listen

A player’s learning rating has a big effect on your team. Players with learning ratings greater than 90 will learn plays very quickly. Players with less than 50 may never learn your plays quickly enough to execute them properly.

You’ll have more time to develop your gameplan (i.e. more practice opportunities) during regular season and playoff bye weeks.

The Practice Recap screen illustrates how your team’s knowledge improved for the play you chose to focus on in practice. The left side of the window shows the actual play layout, play name, average success score and yards gained. You want the success score to be as close to 100 percent, of course. On offense, you want a high yards gained average; on defense you want an average as close to zero as possible. The right side of the window shows the before vs. after change as a result of practice of the percent of players who have mastered the play, learned the play or unlearned the play. Here are these categories in detail: • Mastered: Players with this level of knowledge will get a huge boost

when this play is run. In many cases, these will be your veterans and your quick-learning superstars. • Learned: Players with this level of knowledge will run your play mistakefree but won’t get any boosts. • Unlearned: Players who haven’t learned the play may make mistakes (i.e. run the wrong route or blitz instead of play zone) and will have a drop in key attributes when the play is run. Obviously, the goal is to have mastery of a given play; the secondary goal is to have your players at least learn the given play. Various schools of thought exist when it comes to mastering plays; a good rule of thumb is to completely master plays you plan to call frequently during a game, and master plays that you label as “high consistency”—i.e. runs that regularly net you the same amount of yards each time it’s called. Players will “forget” a play over time if it’s not practiced or used in a game. Players with higher learning ratings will remember plays longer than those with lower ratings (another reason why that stat is important to scout for). For practice as it relates to health and fatigue, don’t put too much stress on your offense or defense by practicing similar plays in repetition. Mix up reps between offense and defense, run and pass, zone and blitz. This will also develop a well-rounded playbook.

When it comes to Gameplans, try to develop rookies in the pre-season. During the regular season, focus on plays that exploit your upcoming opponent’s weaknesses.

The effects of your team practice are revealed in the Practice Recap; you’ll get to see first-hand what percent of players have learned or mastered the play(s) shown.

for clues that may help you choose the best Gameplans. For instance, if your opponent is working on the inside run, choose a plan to stop such plays. 4. Choose Cancel Practice to let players rest; set up a schedule to keep players fresh (i.e. one canceled practice after a win or every other game). Players love time off, so you’ll get a small approval boost whenever you do this.

PRACTICE RECAP

THE RESULTS OF YOUR GAMEPLAN

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

PLAYBOOK EVOLUTION Think of your playbook as a living being: always changing, always growing—but never static. You’ll have many reasons to evolve your playbook: Injuries, new players, stolen plays and season goals to devise new plays.

ASK EA SPORTS What do the different colors stand for when looking at defensive play diagrams?

PLAYCALLING ADVICE ADDITIONAL INSIGHT

Weather Watch: Always take weather into account when calling plays: If it’s rainy or snowy, it may be more difficult to complete passes. If it’s windy, it may be easier or harder to convert field goals and kick punts. Make sure your play calls work well with weather conditions. How the CPU Operates: When you let the CPU take over playcalling for your team (i.e. if you play games in sim mode), the CPU will take a look at your playcalling history and follow the trends you’ve set. In a Hurry? Keep It Simple: Make sure to not get caught in an exotic defense playcall when the opposing offense kicks into hurry-up mode. You may not be able to change your playcall without calling a timeout. Quality Trumps Quantity: A small playbook with good plays always trumps a big playbook with average plays. If you plan to simulate playcalling, having CPU coaches pick from a smaller pool of good plays is essential. Mastery Trumps Everything: A weak playbook gets a whole lot stronger if your team can master it. Likewise, a very strong playbook loses its punch if your players can’t learn it or don’t have the talent to execute it effectively.

To find out how much your players know your plays, go to View Playbook in the Clipboard. Find the play you want to see, then press the A button (X on PS3) to view play knowledge.

The colors are similar to those used in Madden NFL 09. Colored ovals represent areas of zone coverage; lines to an oval show the defenders’ movements into their zones. Light blue: Covers the flats (shallow zone) Dark blue: Deep zone White: Spy coverage Orange arrow: Blitz Yellow: Hook zone (in general, zone areas near the hash marks)

When you get your playcalling scouting report for your upcoming opponent, you can get all sorts of useful data from it: Not only the pass/run ratio and most successful plays, but also play diagrams. If you see a play that looks cool, sketch out and copy the design to create your own version of it in your playbook.

Purple: Buzz zone (in general, zone areas close to the sidelines)

PLAYCALL HISTORY REVIEWING YOUR TENDENCIES

The Playcall History screen (in the Playbook section of the Clipboard) tracks your history of called plays. You can filter called plays to see what you’ve called in different situations. It’s a good way to track tendencies and to see if you’re being too predictable with your calls (remember, if you can see it, so can your CPU opponents). Each week prior to a game, you’ll

THE REGULAR SEASON

Stealing Plays is a fast way to build your playbook with minimal effort. The number of plays available to steal depends on your coordinators’ skill levels.

get a scouting report on your opponent with that team’s playcall tendencies. Analyze that report carefully to get a feel for what plays you can expect.

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DEALING WITH INJURIES NFL Head Coach 09 features an innovative “Wear and Tear” injury system, in which a player loses health points each time he gets hit—and the body parts affected depend on where the player receives the contact. This damage builds up over time, so you’ll be responsible for dictating when players should rest and recover.

INJURY REPORTS WHO TO PLAY OR SIT

The injury report screen lists the health status of all the players on your roster, so you can decide who to sit and who to play. You’ll get your first injury report as you start the preseason. You can sort players by position using the RT button (R2 on PS3). You can also sort players by the following categories: • All: All players • Healthy: Healthy players only • Probable: Should be healthy enough by game day • Questionable: May or may not be healthy enough by game day • Doubtful: Will likely not be healthy enough by game day • Out: Not available due to injury • Low Fatigue: Players with low fatigue

HEALTH & FATIGUE REPORTS KEEP YOUR PLAYERS FRESH

You will regularly receive these reports, which list all the players who are banged up or hurt. You can then choose to sit out or play them. If you’re not sure what to do, follow the recommendation given by the trainer. However, you can override any recommendation depending on the situation. For instance, you should rest fatigued players if the upcoming game is meaningless to your playoff picture. If you have a must-win game ahead, play your superstars no matter what. However, from a long-term franchise standpoint, it’s almost always wisest to err on caution and keep your players fresh and develop your back-ups rather than risk key personnel to season- or career-ending injuries (which can also hurt their trade value down the road). On the “Injury Report Action” screen, you’ll see the main bars that show over-

ASK EA SPORTS How often will players be injured, and how long will they need to recover? Players will get injured as often as they do in the NFL, and your trainer’s ability will determine how quickly they’ll rehab. Some injuries can knock a player out for a year or more.

Severe injuries can affect your player’s overall rating. For instance, a severe concussion could make a player with a 99 overall rating drop to 92. Obviously, you don’t want to overwork players to the point where they run a high risk of a career-threatening injury, so when you get reports during a game of fatigued players, think twice before forcing them to stay on the field.

all health and fatigue. However, you should also focus on the specific areas listed: head, right arm, right leg, torso, left arm, and left leg. A diagram to the left shows those areas, and injured parts will show up in red.

WHEN A PLAYER IS INJURED WHAT TO DO WHEN DISASTER STRIKES

that player’s season, you should place the player on IR. Players on IR are gone for the season and cannot return, so use IR with extreme care. (IR also opens up cap space equal to that hurt player’s salary for that season.)

SUBSTITUTIONS

PREVENT INJURIES BEFORE THEY OCCUR

When a player gets injured, you can adjust your depth chart, hire a free agent to take his spot, or put the player on injured reserve (IR). For minor injuries, you don’t need to do anything; the player will be pulled to the sidelines and return once healthy. If you’re thin at that position, you can hire a free agent—but it’s not necessary to do so until your staff informs you of a Low Roster Alert. If the injury is likely to end

Frequent substitutions can keep players fresh and reduce the chance of injury. Either make a point of manually subbing in players during a game, or adjust your team’s philosophy to boost health/fatigue substitution levels. Another substitution tactic is to edit a play in your playbook to alter the depth chart so that certain players are more likely to run that given play.

Review the health of all players with the Fatigue and Injury Report. You’ll also get these reports during games as certain players tire. The options are simple: Let the player play or keep him out to rest. If you’re not sure, either follow the recommendation of your trainer or play it safe and keep him out.

The best way to avoid fatigue is to be proactive with substitutions. For instance, bring in your 2nd and 3rd stringers when you have a comfortable lead. Another useful tool is to Quick Sub when choosing a play—this is the easiest way to sub in running backs if you’re trying to platoon them.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

OTHER EVENTS In addition to your weekly game preparation and roster management tasks, here are other events you’ll see as the regular season unfolds:

NEW SEASON GOALS REGULAR SEASON

You’ll usually see a deluge of new Season Goals once the regular season begins. Some examples include: • Win a certain number of games • Win a specific game against a rival • Re-sign specific players • Replace certain members of your coaching staff • Reach a specific approval level by the end of the season.

GAME CHANGERS UNEXPECTED BIG MOMENTS

Game Changers are unexpected events that every coach must deal with. In actuality, these can occur at any time of the year—but you probably won’t encounter any of these events until after your first regular season begins. A few examples: • The Accounting Error Game Changer causes the league to wipe your cap penalties clear due to an accounting error. • The Approval Boost Game Changer gives you a small increase in approval. • The Approval Drop Game Changer gives you a small decrease in approval.

• The Change of Heart Game Changer causes a staff member with locked philosophies to unlock them. • The Coaching Retreat Game Changer cause your coaches to gain skill points after a weekend retreat. • The Coaching Seminar Game Changer causes your coaches to gain skill points after that seminar. • The Continue Career Game Changer causes one NFL player to come out of retirement and return to the league. • The Development Breakthrough Game Changer causes a player to gain some progression points. • The Inside Info Game Changer causes a team to unlock all scouting information about an individual player in the draft. • The Teaching Breakthrough Game Changer causes every player on the team’s learning ability to increase by 10 percent. • The Max Fatigue Game Changer causes a player to regain his max fatigue immediately. • The Miracle Recovery Game Changer causes an injured player to recover instantly from an injury. • The Unexpected Injury Game Changer causes a player to be injured off the field, whether it’s cutting their hand making a sandwich or receiving a sprained back from a violent sneeze. • The Unexpected Retirement Game Changer forces a player to walk away from the NFL early.

Game Changers are purely random events that are out of your control—whether good or bad, you’ll have to take them in stride.

THE REGULAR SEASON

CONTRACT RE-SIGNINGS NEGOTIATIONS

Starting in the first month of the regular season, players in the final year of their deal will seek a new contract if they want to stay with the team. If talks break down, they’ll come back as the season comes along—but be warned: Some personality types will decide to leave the team if contract talks break down. It’s imperative to settle contracts with your key superstars that you wish to keep.

UNDERPAID PLAYERS NEGOTIATIONS

Players who believe they’re currently underpaid (whether justified or not) will often seek to renegotiate their contract even though they may have years left on their deal. This is never good for your salary cap, but it may require you to “bite the bullet” and pony up more dough to keep that player happy. Personality type plays a big role in this—so when bringing in new players, watch out for personality types and traits (i.e. Materialistic, Self-Focused) that might cause contract headaches. down the road.

ACTIVE ROSTER PRE-GAME REQUIREMENT

Before each game, you’re required to submit a 45-player list of active players from your full 53-player roster. The CPU does this for you automatically based on your team’s injuries and depth chart, but you can review it if you

You’ll get additional opportunities during the season to create plays. If you’re just making plays to fulfill season goals, but aren’t really into the whole process, choose an existing play and edit it only slightly, such as changing a pass route, then rename and save it.

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OTHER EVENTS wish. You can also review other teams (including your next opponent) so see if there are any key injuries that you might be able to take advantage of.

AWARDS

THE BEST PLAYERS OF THE WEEK & THE YEAR

After each week of games, the NFL names the offensive and defensive players who had the best performances. At the end of the season, the NFL hands out awards such as offensive and defensive players of the year as well as coach of the year. to this type of behavior.

IN-SEASON SCOUTING

THE HUNT FOR TALENT NEVER CEASES

Scouting is a year-long event: Your scouts and GM will scout colleges during the fall to evaluate talent for next year’s draft. Players scouted during the regular season will have their strengths and weaknesses, production grade and NFL comparisons unlocked. Players’ production grades will go up or down as the season progresses. to this type of behavior.

DEPTH CHART SCENARIOS RECOMMENDATIONS FROM YOUR STAFF

Occasionally, your coaching staff will approach you with requests to alter the depth chart. Usually, the request is to bench a struggling player or to replace a veteran with a promising rookie. You get the final say in the decision, but usually, it’s best to follow their suggestions to see how it plays out.

TRADE DEADLINE

TIME TO FINALIZE YOUR ROSTER

The trade deadline usually falls before mid-October, and it is an important date no matter what your situation is. If you’re a possible playoff contender, you might want to trade to fill some holes to replace injured players or to bolster your depth chart with veteran talent to make a strong playoff run. Conversely, if you’re looking to rebuild a franchise with a multiyear plan, now might be the time to hear some trade offers for some of your older players in exchange for future draft picks. While you never want to dismantle your team in the middle of the season, you can always entertain trade offers by putting cap-killing players on the drafting block—just to see how much interest there might be out there.

COACH EVALUATION MID-JANUARY EVENT

At the end of the season, you’ll meet with the owner to discuss your future with the team. At this evaluation, you’ll review your owner’s expectations, what expectations you actually reached, what you promised your owner, and how your approval changed. Hopefully, you’ll be reviewing how great your season was, and how your approval increased accordingly. Based on that data, the owner will either ask you to stay or go, and you’ll have the option of staying with the team, finding a new team, or retire.

Players from smaller schools usually get picked later in the draft, so you can gain an advantage by focusing on them to find sleeper picks or “diamonds in the rough.” You’ll get a bigger boost if your GM has skills that specialize in scouting mid-majors and/or small schools.

As the regular season progresses, you’ll begin to see small icons next to some players’ names: Crutches indicate a player on injured reserve, a teardrop indicates low fatigue and a red arrow indicates an injury.

If you are fired (or voluntarily choose to leave your team), you may have the chance to join a new team if any of them are interested in your services. If no team is interested, you may be THE BOWLS forced to retire. ENDING THE SEASON

The Super Bowl is the game every NFL coach wants to participate in and win. The winner of the Super Bowl gets their team campus specially decorated in celebration of that victory. The Pro Bowl is an exhibition game that features the best players in the NFL. It is the final NFL game played before the offseason begins; you’ll get to see how the fans voted for each position. If you’ve made it this far with your job intact, congratulations! You’ve survived your first season in the NFL!

If you can meet your Season Goal of being at a specific Approval Rating by the end of the season, you’ll be in great shape for keeping your job for one more year. Even if your team owner wants you to stay, you’re free to leave or retire at the end of the season.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

‘It seems like you have to step it up to another level in the playoffs, but you really don’t. You just have to be able to play at high intensity, knowing how much is on the line, but still just execute and play basic, sound football.’ —Tony Dungy on preparing for playoff games

PLAYBOOK STRATEGY EDITING/CREATING PLAYS 62 PLAY CREATOR OPTIONS

OTHER PLAYBOOKS

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWNS

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EDITING/CREATING PLAYS One of the coolest features in NFL Head Coach 09 is the ability to tweak and create new plays. With the ability to upload and download plays to GamerNet, the game will continue to evolve over time—and coaches will need to adapt accordingly. The best way to begin creating plays is to take an existing play you are familiar with and tweak it slightly, such as changing a receiver route. Once you get a feel for handling small changes and evaluating their impacts (more on that later in this section), you can take a stab at plays drawn up from scratch.

PLAY CREATION ADVICE . TIPS FROM THE PROS

It’s easy to get overwhelmed by the myriad options for designing a play, so before you begin, here are some core coaching principles to build on:

1. Copy What Beats You: If a certain team’s plays beat your defense time and time again, study them and add them to your offensive playbook. 2. Name Plays Smartly: A naming system makes it easy for you to recognize plays in the heat of battle. 3. Bread and Butter vs. Wild Card: Your plays should fall into two categories: The first are reliable “bread and butter” plays that provide consistent results. The second are “wild card” plays that are unreliable, but when called in the right situation, can catch a defense completely off guard for a big gain. You want to focus on mastering “bread and butter” plays, but not rely on them so much to the point of being predictable. On the other hand, don’t junk up your playbook with “wild card” trick plays—but it’s important to have those plays to keep defenses honest.

4. Every Run Play Has a Play Action Equivalent: This is an important secret of the pros—every run play you design must have a play-action pass off that exact same run play. 5. Your Personnel Dictates Your Playbook: Only create plays that take advantage of your team’s strengths, not weaknesses. Since your players’ skill levels (and roster) will change from season to season, your playbook must evolve to match. 5. Test, Evaluate, Edit and Repeat: An offensive play can only be truly successful if it can beat multiple defenses. It is vital to test plays against blitzes and zones, and run them multiple times to properly evaluate them. 6. Making Spaces: A successful run or pass creates space at the point of attack by drawing defenders away from that point—not toward it.

ASK EA SPORTS What do the differently colored arrows on a pass play stand for? The arrow colors are the same as those found in Madden NFL 09 plays: Light blue: Block and release route

To create a play, select ‘My Coach’ in the main menu, select ‘Playbooks’ and then ‘Create a Play.’ On the last menu screen, you’ll also see options to create and edit playbooks, export and import plays, and connect to GamerNet.

Select the NFL team you’ll use to test the play that you’re about to edit or create from scratch.

You’ll be sent to your team’s practice field, then be asked to select an offensive or defensive play.

Orange: Primary pass receiver (on a run play, the person getting the ball) Yellow: Pass route (not primary receiver) Green: Auto motion route (receiver goes into motion before the ball is snapped) Multiple arrows: Option pass route (receiver chooses his route based on defensive coverage)

If you select an offensive play, you’ll be asked whether you’re creating a pass or run play. Your choice here will determine your editing options later on.

4 5

You’ll then be asked to either create a new play or choose an existing play to edit.

No matter what option you chose in the previous step, you’ll be asked to select a formation to base the play on. If you chose to edit an existing play, you’ll also be asked to pick the specific play to edit. Press RB (or R1 on the PS3) to see more plays to choose from.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Tony Dungy was the first head coach to defeat all 32 modern-day NFL teams.

Assignment options vary depending on position and where they’re lined up in the formation (for instance, linesmen can’t go into motion). A full list of the options can be found in this section.

This is the main play editing screen.

An orange arrow indicates the main ball handler on a run play or the primary receiver on a pass play. Use the directional pad to switch from one player to another. The position of the currently selected player (shown on the field in a blue circle) is here.

After creating or editing a play, you’ll have the option to test it, edit it again, save it or start over. Most likely, you’ll want to test it against a variety of defenses.

If testing, you’ll watch the action on the field as the play is run repeatedly. Make note of the kind of yardage you’re getting.

PLAY CREATOR OPTIONS . OFFENSIVE PLAY ICONS

Here are icons you might see when creating an offensive play: Step Drop QB Denotes how many steps back (1, 3, 5 or 7) the quarterback takes after taking the ball from the center. When used for pass plays; the rule of thumb is the longer the pass, the deeper the drop so that the quarterback has time to make reads and avoid defensive pressure. Block (Run Block) Any position The blocker moves forward to block the closest defender.

PLAYBOOK STRATEGY

If you want to keep a play you’ve edited or created from scratch, select ‘Save Play’ (as shown in the previous screen) and type in a play name.

Select a name that will make it easy to remember what type of play it is. Consider using a consistent play naming system like pro coaches use.

Finally, select how often you want this play called by your computercontrolled coaches: infrequently, sometimes or frequently.

Unless you’ve tested a play extensively and are confident it works against many defenses, choose “infrequently” to be on the safe side.

Block and Release RB, TE, WR The offensive player blocks the defender in front of him, then releases either left or right.

Curl (Long) (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route in which the receiver runs straight down the field before stopping and turning around.

Counter RB Sends the player in a direction opposite the general blocking direction. You can counter left or right.

Curl (Medium) (Left or Right) Any receiver A shorter-yardage version of the previously described curl pass route.

Cross (Left or Right) TE, WR A pass route that cuts roughly five yards behind the defensive line.

Curl & Go (Left or Right) Any receiver The receiver runs a curl route before streaking down the field for a long pass. A quarterback will need a deeper drop or good pass protection to let this route develop.

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EDITING/CREATING PLAYS Dive Any ball carrier The dive is a standard rushing route that splits two offensive linesmen (usually the center and guard).

Except when otherwise noted, most pass routes can be flipped left or right depending on the player’s position on the field.

Drag (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route with a first move at a 45-degree angle, then a cut to the interior of the field behind the defensive line.

In (Short) (Left or Right) Any receiver Same concept as the middle in route, but the 90-degree cut is made even earlier.

Draw RB A dive-type run by the running back on a play (usually in shotgun formation) designed to look like a pass.

In and Up (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route that starts like an in route, but the receiver cuts a second time to resume running down the field.

Flat (Left or Right) RB A pass route that begins in the backfield that sends the receiver toward the sidelines near the line of scrimmage. This is usually the last-read receiver on a pass play.

Option Route Any receiver A “smart” route; the reciever will analyze the defensive coverage (to the extent that his ability and training allow) and run what he believes is the best route to get open.

Hitch (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route in which the receiver takes a few steps then immediately turns around to expect a pass. Ideally, some blocks are set up around this receiver to enable him to run after the ball is caught.

Out (Deep) (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route in which the reciever runs down the field, then executes a 90-degree cut to run toward the sideline.

Hitch and Go (Left or Right) Any receiver Essentially a “fake” hitch route in which the receiver streaks down the field after executing the hitch. In (Deep) (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route in which the reciever runs down the field, then executes a 90-degree cut to run toward the middle of the field. You can run this route left or right depending on the receiver’s position. In (Middle) (Left or Right) Any receiver Same concept as the deep in route, but the 90-degree cut is made earlier.

Out (Middle) (Left or Right) Any receiver Same concept as the deep out route, but the 90-degree cut is made earlier. Out (Short) (Left or Right) Any receiver Same concept as the middle out route, but the 90-degree cut is made even earlier. Out and Up (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route that starts like an out route, but the receiver cuts a second time to resume running down the field.

Out and Up Comeback (Left or Right) Any receiver An even more complex route based on the out and up; when the receiver runs down the field a second time, he abruptly stops and cuts sharply toward the sideline. Pass Block Any player Assigns that player to step back and block the closest defender approaching him. Play Action QB Makes the quarterback fake a handoff (usually to a running back); it’s designed to freeze the defense. Play Action (I Form) RB Positions the running back behind the quarterback before a fake handoff occurs. Play Action (Offset) RB Positions the running back to the left or right behind the quarterback before a fake handoff occurs. Play Action (Shotgun) RB Positions the running back and quarterback next to each other (usually in shotgun formation) before a fake handoff occurs. The running back can be positioned left or right of the quarterback. Post Corner (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route in which the receiver runs down field, makes one 45-degree cut toward the center of the field, then makes another cut toward the corner of the end zone. Post (Deep) (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route in which the receiver runs down field, then cuts toward the middle of the field (or to be precise, toward the goal post behind the end zone).

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

John Madden’s .759 regular season winning percentage is the highest among coaches with 100 career victories. Under Madden’s coaching, the Raiders never had a losing record.

Post (Middle) (Left or Right) Any receiver Similar to the deep post, but the cut toward the middle is made sooner. This pass route can be flipped left or right depending on the receiver’s position on the field. Post Stop (Left or Right) Any receiver Similar to a post route; however, the receiver abruptly stops his post route, turns around and takes a step or two back toward the quarterback. This pass route can be flipped left or right depending on the receiver’s position on the field. Pull Any player A block in which the player moves left (or right) before blocking the defender closest to him. Quarterback Draw QB A dive-type run by the quarterback on a play (usually in shotgun formation) designed to look like a pass. RB Angle (Left or Right) RB A pass route in which a running back cuts around the offensive tackle to return back toward the middle of the field. RB Flat (Left or Right) RB A pass route in which a running back immediately cuts left (or right) before moving down the sideline.

When it comes to Receiver Progression, if none of the reads are open, your QB may opt to run if he’s a scrambler. If not, he’ll try to hold the ball as long as possible until a receiver gets open.

Generally, the first progression is the primary receiver the play is designed for; if the QB deems that person open, he’ll pass the ball. If not open, the QB will continue down the order of progression until he finds an open receiver. Generally, the last progression is the “dump-off” receiver (usually an RB in the flats) who acts as a “safety outlet” if no other receiver is open. Remove Motion Any eligible player Cancels a player’s motion. Roll Out QB Makes the player execute a curved run backwards toward the left (or right), ostensibly to give the player a way to avoid a pass rush and give him more time to look for an open receiver. Set Motion Any eligible player Puts a player in motion before the ball is snapped. Set Receiver Progression QB Select this icon to create or edit the quarterback’s receiver progression on a pass play (see Receiver Progression for more details).

RB Screen (Left or Right) RB A pass route in which a running back (and a corresponding lineman) move behind the line of scrimmage to receive a pass. The lineman then acts as a blocker for the running back.

Slam RB An interior run route in which a lead blocker (usually the fullback) runs ahead of the ball carrier (the tailback) to block the first defender he runs into.

Receiver Progression Any receiver Defines for the QB the order (from one through five, depending on the number of receivers on the field) in which he looks for open pass catchers.

Slant (Left or Right) RB A pass route in which the receiver runs downfield, then makes a 45-degree cut toward the opposite side of the field.

PLAYBOOK STRATEGY

Slant and Go (Left or Right) RB A pass route in which the receiver runs downfield, then makes a 45-degree cut toward the opposite side of the field. Before reaching the other side of the field, the receiver makes a second 45-degree cut to run straight down the field again. Streak (Left or Right) Any eligible receiver A pass route in which the receiver runs downfield at full speed; also known as a go route. Stretch RB A run route in which the lead blocker (usually the fullback) runs to block between two linemen similar to a dive run. However, the running back does not follow the lead block but instead tries to run around the offensive line and reach open space outside the hash marks. Sweep (Left or Right) RB A run play in which the running back tries to find an opening just outside the left (or right) tackle. Swing (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route in which the receiver takes a curved path toward the middle of the field. Wheel (Left or Right) Any receiver A pass route in which the receiver cuts across the field behind the defensive line before making a 90-degree turn to run downfield. Whip Out (Left or Right) Any receiver Makes the receiver run 45 degrees toward the middle of the field, then curve back slightly behind the defensive line.

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EDITING & CREATING PLAYS WR Screen Any receiver A pass route in which a wide receiver (and a corresponding lineman) move behind the line of scrimmage to receive a pass. The lineman then acts as a blocker for the wide receiver.

PLAY CREATOR OPTIONS DEFENSIVE PLAY ICONS

Here are icons you might see when creating a defensive play: Assignment Any player Assigns your player to a specific receiver no matter where that player lines up on the field. Blitz Any position Causes that player to blitz. Contain Any position Causes that player (usually a defensive end) to try and prevent any ball carrier from reaching the sidelines. In effect, tries to keep the ball carrier between the hash marks. You can contain left or right. Line Moves Defensive line Makes the defensive line move around prior to the snap of the ball. Lock DB Assigns your player to a specific receiver location regardless of who that receiver is; basically the opposite of the Assignment icon. Man DB Assigns your defensive back to man-to-man cover with the closest receiver to him. Man Strategy DB Assigns man-to-man cover assignments to all your relevant defense personnel.

Play Off Any player Causes that player to cover a receiver loosely from the line of scrimmage. This is done to help protect against a deep pass. Press Any player Causes that player to cover a receiver tightly from the line of scrimmage. This is done to help protect against a short pass or to assume an aggressive defensive posture. Rush Left Any defensive player Makes the player attempt to the shoot the gap to the left of the offensive player in front of him. Rush Middle Any defensive player Makes the player attempt to directly lock up the offensive player in front of him. Rush Right Any defensive player Makes the player attempt to the shoot the gap to the right of the offensive player in front of him. Show Blitz Any defensive player Makes the defensive player look like he’s going to blitz; you can use this to fake a blitz. Spy Any defensive player Makes the defensive player shadow a specific player in the backfield (usually the quarterback, but can also be a running back or wide receiver as well) to prevent that person from running past the line of scrimmage. For example, a spy is useful when trying to contain quarterbacks who like to run with the ball. Stunt Any defensive player Makes the defensive player swing behind another defensive player (either moving left or right) to try and generate a rush.

Zone Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage. Zone Curl Flat (Left or Right) Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping back slightly then curling back into his coverage location (the flats). Zone Deep 2 (Left or Right) Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping back fairly deep before curving left (or right) into his coverage location (downfield along the left or right half of the field). Zone Deep 4 In (Left or Right) Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping back fairly deep before curving left (or right) into his coverage location, which is the either the left or right side of the middle of the field. Should be used with Zone Deep 4 Out. Zone Deep 4 Out (Left or Right) Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping back fairly deep before curving left (or right) into his coverage location, which is the either the left or right sideline. Should be used with Zone Deep 4 In. Zone Deep 3 Left Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping back into his coverage location (the left third of the field). Should be used with other Zone Deep coverages. Zone Deep 3 Middle Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping back into his coverage location, which is the middle third of the field. Should be used in conjunction with other Zone Deep coverages.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

According to NFL rules, all helmets must have a small NFL logo on the rear lower left side.

Zone Deep 3 Right Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping back into his coverage location (the right third of the field). Should be used with other Zone Deep coverages.

PLAY CREATOR OPTIONS .

Zone Hook (Left or Right) Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping back into his coverage location and curling into it (either left or right).

ICONS FOR BOTH OFFENSE AND DEFENSE

Move Player Any player Use this option to move where a player is positioned before the ball is snapped. A “live” area will appear to show the limits of where that player can be positioned.

Zone Hook Middle Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping back into his coverage location and curling into the middle of the field.

Zone Flat (Left or Right) Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping back into his coverage location, which is the left or right flat.

Normal Any player Reverts a player’s assignment.

Zone Prevent Any defensive player Makes the defensive player execute zone coverage by dropping deep downfield to prevent a long pass.

Depth Chart Any player Assigns a specific roster player to run that play.

OTHER PLAYBOOKS When you start a new career, you can choose a playbook not being used by any NFL franchise. On offense: • Spread Option • Pistol Attack • Michigan Spread • Miraldi Tech Passing • Wishbone • Option Attack • Wing T FICTIONAL COLLEGE COACH Larry Widebacker Anthony Dubb Gary Hammermill

• Sanders Army Run • West Coast • College Attack • Run & Shoot You’ll also see playbooks that belong to specific offensive coordinators. On defense: • 4-2-5 • 3-3-5 Mustang • 3-2-6 • 3-4 Pressure FROM

You’ll also see playbooks that belong to specific defensive coordinators. Many of these playbooks are based on schemes used at the college level. During your coaching career, you will encounter fantasy college coaches interested in bringing one of these unique playbooks to your team (a full list is below). When you hire a college coach as a coordinator, you can add some of his plays to your playbook. PLAYBOOK DESCRIPTION

Florida

Brings the Spread Option with a lot of QB Runs into the NFL

Memphis

Brings the college ‘Pistol’ attack into the NFL and runs the 4-2-5 on defense

Michigan

Brings the West Virginia/Michigan spread attack into the NFL

Don Miraldi

Texas Tech

Brings the ‘Air Raid’ Texas Tech passing attack into the NFL

Tom Bosco

Middle Tennessee State

Brings the ‘Wishbone’ offense into the NFL

Army

Brings the Army running attack into the NFL and runs the 4-2-5 on defense

General Sanders Chris Staymates Greg Hart Joe Gibson

Florida

Brings the Spread Option with a lot of QB Runs into the NFL

Old NFL Coach

Brings the Run and Shoot back to the NFL

Texas State

Brings the Wing T to the NFL

J.R. Scarpati

Navy

Brings the Option Attack into the NFL

UCLA

Brings the College Attack Playbook into the NFL

Kansas State

Brings the Wishbone and the 3-3-5 into the NFL

Toledo

Brings the Pressure 3-4 defense into the NFL

Lake Watterson Tony Dyal Eric Gruber

PLAYBOOK STRATEGY

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PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWNS On the following pages are the default offensive and defensive playbooks in NFL Head Coach 09. Playbooks are broken down by play type, and a signature play—usually a playbook favorite or one well suited to the team using that playbook—is shown for each. These comparisons may help you decide whether you want to stick to a playbook or try out someone else’s.

CREAM OF THE CROP

THE STRONGEST PLAYBOOKS AVAILABLE

All the playbooks below are rated Very Strong. If you’re looking for a new playbook, here’s the best of the best. On offense: • Tom Moore Pass Attack: Home of the Colts’ difficult-to-stop stretch play • Garrett Pass Attack and Martz Air Attack: Perfect for teams with multiple talented and quick WRs • Patriots Air Strike: A smart QB and smart adjustments/playcalling make this defense-dismantling playbook work • Holmgren West Coast: The strongest playbook for those wanting to run a (you guessed it) West Coast offense On defense: • Tampa 2: The most widely used defense in the NFL • Jim Johnson Blitz: Look for some unique blitzes • Jags Physical D: Proven effective at stopping the run • Patriots Pressure: A proven defensive playbook • LeBeau Zone Blitz: One of the NFL’s top attacking-style defenses • Rex Ryan 46: Playbook has an excellent pedigree and a good reputation for totally shutting down offenses Other innovative playbooks worth looking over: • Shanahan Zone Block: The Broncos have revolutionized run block schemes • Gruden West Coast and McCarthy West Coast: Two other strong playbooks for building a West Coast offense

CHICAGO

CINCINNATI

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Bears Power Run (Weak) Wear down the defense and control the clock with inside and off-tackle runs that set up play-action passes.

Bengals Vertical Pass (Strong) Relies on WR-CB mismatches and deep passes; run the ball to keep the defense honest.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BEARS

PASS

RUN

BENGALS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 128

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 109

SIGNATURE PLAY Singleback > 90 H Dive Use your All-Pro C to block; when defenses put eight in the box, try Fake 90 Y Shallow to play action.

SIGNATURE PLAY Singleback > Fake 20 864 Smash Play action to give the WRs time to separate and work their way down the field; throw to whoever’s open.

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Lovie Cover 2 (Average) Smith’s version of the Tampa 2: Aggressive, controlled blitzes, attack gaps, and have CBs reroute WRs.

Zimmer 4-3 (Very Weak) The playbook may be poor, but if the defense has time to master it and stay healthy, there is hope.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

SIGNATURE PLAY Tampa 2 > 2 Deep Gap Shoot This effective blitz uses some stunting and your quick star MLB to find gaps and pressure the QB.

SIGNATURE PLAY Nickel > CB3 Blitz The secondary is the strength of the defense in 2008; CB blitzes will help pressure opposing QBs.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Field goal posts in the NFL are 30 feet tall and are spread 18-1/2 feet apart.

BUFFALO

DENVER

CLEVELAND

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Bills Balanced (Very Weak) It is neither creative nor takes too many risks, but a talented QB and speedy RB can make it work.

Shanahan Zone Block (Strong) Innovative runs in which blockers focus on the defenders nearest to them. Requires talented linemen.

Chudzinski Balanced (Average) The “balance” focuses on smart situational playcalls rather than an arbitrary 50/50 run/pass split.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BILLS

PASS

RUN

BRONCOS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 114

BROWNS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 130

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 116

SIGNATURE PLAY Singleback > 15 Power This play takes advantage of the left side of the Bills offensive line, which is stronger than the right.

SIGNATURE PLAY Singlebk. > Boot Rt U Deep Cross Mobilize the QB with a rollout and use his strong arm to stretch the defense vertically.

SIGNATURE PLAY Gun > Scram Rt 870 Hitch Give your QB lots of WR options— but quick reads—to attack the defense’s weaknesses.

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Bills Cover 2 (Average) Jauron is an underrated defensive mind; then again, it’s hard to mess up any variation of the Tampa 2.

Broncos Man Cover (Weak) The Broncos’ defensive scheme fizzled in 2007. A new coordinator will want a different playbook…

Browns Rush Passer (Weak) The 3-4 base provides lots of flexibility, but it’s tough to scout for when the 4-3 dominates in college.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BLITZ

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MAN

TOTAL

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MAN

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MAN

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SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 Tampa 2 > Free Fire Leverage your free-agent pick-ups (DT Stroud and LB Mitchell) to develop pass pressure.

PLAYBOOK STRATEGY

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Safety Blitz The Broncos couldn’t stop the run in ’07, so they had to pull up the safety for interior run support.

SIGNATURE PLAY 3-4 > Cross Fire 3 Stunting the LBs takes advantage of the Browns’ off-season pick-ups and bolsters pressure up front.

www.primagames.com

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWNS TAMPA BAY

ARIZONA

SAN DIEGO

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Gruden West Coast (Strong) Takes pass-sets-up-run concepts to a higher level; if you want to try West Coast, steal this playbook.

Whisenhunt Power Run (Average) Don’t let the name fool you: You pound the ball frequently mainly to open up deeper pass routes.

Super Chargers Attack (Strong) The Chargers’ wealth of talent makes this playbook look good—if their superstars stay healthy…

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BUCCANEERS

PASS

RUN

SPEC.

CHARGERS

CARDINALS

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 137

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 120

SPEC.

SIGNATURE PLAY Gun > 320 Dragon Slant Short drops, quicker reads and timing routes help keep the QB from getting sacked or hurried.

SIGNATURE PLAY Singlebk. > Ride 338 Naked Y C... This naked bootleg attacks the left side of the field. The QB can run if there’s no one open.

SIGNATURE PLAY Singleback > 50 Counter Trap Give the ball to Tomlinson, have your tackle open up a lane, and let your star RB read the defense.

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Tampa 2 (Very Strong) Many NFL defenses have picked up or copied this effective scheme; it’s a great playbook to rebuild with.

Cardinals Blitz (Strong) Can’t get a consistent pass rush up front? Blitz frequently to help your front four apply pressure.

Chargers Pass Rush (Average) The Chargers rely on a 3-4 base; a top-notch front line is required for this scheme to succeed.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Cover 3 Speed on defense is vital for the Tampa 2; drop the MLB to convert to Cover 3 on long pass situations.

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Free Fire This fairly standard blitz puts a lot of pressure on your secondary to play close to the wideouts.

SIGNATURE PLAY Attacking 3-4 > 2 Man Under As the front three put pressure on the QB, the LBs are free to adjust to either the pass or run.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Each row of hashmarks in the middle of the field is 70-3/4 feet from the sideline.

KANSAS CITY

INDIANAPOLIS

DALLAS

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Chiefs Grind It Out (Very Weak) Fewer plays, better mastery. That’s the Chiefs philosophy for 2008. Downhill run plays are a priority.

Tom Moore Pass Attack (Very Strong) Tom Moore exploits his biggest asset—QB Peyton Manning—and keeps defenses off-balance.

Garrett Pass Attack (Very Strong) This playbook relies on a platoon of RBs and dominant WRs to give the QB plenty of targets.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

CHIEFS

COLTS

PASS

RUN

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

101 38

COWBOYS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 158

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 130

SIGNATURE PLAY Strong > 28 Stretch When in doubt, give Larry Johnson lots of blockers and let him run— but keep him healthy as well…

SIGNATURE PLAY Singleback > Colts Stretch 18 The stretch play is a Colts specialty: You can run or pass from it, so it always freezes the defense.

SIGNATURE PLAY Singlebk. > Zip Scram Rt 76 Z S… Have the WRs stretch the field. Hit one if open, otherwise, dump off to the RB in the void left by the WR.

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Chiefs Old School (Very Weak) The Chiefs desperately want to return to the glory days of the 1990s. They won’t with this thin playbook.

Dungy Cover 2 (Strong) Dungy’s schemes reflect his playing days with the Steel Curtain in the 1970s—a very wise choice…

Phillips 3-4 (Strong) The cornerbacks must improve their cover skills to give the 3-4 a chance to succeed.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

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ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Cover 2 Stunt This play reflects the Chiefs’ bendbut-don’t-break mentality: when talent’s lacking, keep things simple.

PLAYBOOK STRATEGY

SIGNATURE PLAY Dungy 4-3 Cover 2 > Under 2 Not as many blitzes compared to other Cover/Tampa 2s; Dungy prefers simpler zone Ds like this one.

SIGNATURE PLAY 3-4 > 2 Deep MLB Spy Prevent defenses from converting on third-and-long by rushing one LB and dropping the rest back.

www.primagames.com

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWNS MIAMI

PHILADELPHIA

ATLANTA

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Sparano Balanced (Weak) Tony Sparano will be starting from scratch, so a balanced playbook is the safest route to start.

Reid All Passing (Strong) Andy Reid will pass anywhere on the field to anyone—including RBs into the flats. It’s a potent playbook.

Mularkey Power Run (Very Weak) Mularkey brings his run philosophy from the Buffalo Bills. Now all he needs are some powerful runners…

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

DOLPHINS

PASS

RUN

EAGLES

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 110

FALCONS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 154

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 114

SIGNATURE PLAY Singleback > 22 H Counter A signature play has yet to be found; this left-side run makes use of the team’s top pick, Jake Long.

SIGNATURE PLAY Gun > 41 Draw Defenses focus so much on the Eagles pass attack that a simple draw can result in a big gain.

SIGNATURE PLAY Singleback > Flea Flicker Mularkey is known for having a few trick/gadget plays up his sleeve. Here’s one example:

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Pasqualoni Pass Rush (Weak) This team has tried many different defenses as coaches come and go; is year is no exception.

Jim Johnson Blitz (Very Strong) If you like blitzes, steal this playbook: aggressive and unpredictable, anyone is a potential blitzer.

Smith Physical D (Weak) Mike Smith did great with Jacksonville’s defense, but his playbook may not fit with Atlanta’s talent.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

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ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

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MAN

TOTAL

SIGNATURE PLAY 3-4 > Storm Brave 1 DE Jason Taylor is the defense’s biggest asset; so let him loose with this pass rush play.

SIGNATURE PLAY Nickel > CB Blitz This CB blitz uses the element of surprise to (hopefully) attack the QB’s blind side and record a sack.

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Thunder Smoke Stop the run and force the pass; that’s one of Smith’s trademarks. You need big OTs to pull this off.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

When a turnover occurs, you might see an official throw a blue bean bag; it’s used to mark where the fumble or interception took place. Each blue bag has a number that identifies which official threw it.

SAN FRANCISCO

NEW YORK

JACKSONVILLE

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

GIANTS

49ERS

JAGUARS

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Martz Air Attack (Very Strong) Mike Martz will tailor this playbook to the offense’s talent level—but you can’t deny his passing genius.

Gilbride Old School (Average) This is a safer if somewhat uninspiring playbook to work with—perfect for a young learning QB.

Koetter Ball Control (Average) The Jaguars love to run with a platoon of running backs. Pass to open up the run.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

PASS

RUN

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 105

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 108

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 106

SIGNATURE PLAY Gun > Liz Lft Deep Attack This is a Martz-designed big pass play like the Rams used during their “greatest show on turf” heyday.

SIGNATURE PLAY Gun > 62 Z Dig Y Out Eli Manning likes to throw the deep out to Plaxico Burress—especially in man-to-man situations.

SIGNATURE PLAY I > 18 Stretch With a big QB and two great RBs, here’s one run play that tests the opposing team’s LBs.

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Nolan 3-4 (Very Weak) Nolan is trying to implement a 3-4 scheme that features both one- and two-gap approaches.

Spagnuolo Pressure (Strong) Steve Spagnuolo loves to keep QBs off kilter by lining up pass rushers where they’re not expected.

Jags Physical D (Very Strong) A very potent playbook—but only if you have good-enough hard-hitting talent up front to make it work.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

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SIGNATURE PLAY 3-4 > Trio Whip Man No signature plays yet, so here’s a 3-4 play that relies on man coverage. Big, strong DEs are a must.

PLAYBOOK STRATEGY

SIGNATURE PLAY Pressure Dime > Corner Crash 3 Not one but two corners crash into the backfield as two linemen drop into zone coverage.

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > DBL TE Bracket The Jaguars’ secondary can hold its own, so use an outside LB blitz to assist the team’s rookie DEs.

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PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWNS NEW YORK

DETROIT

GREEN BAY

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Shottenheimer Attack (Weak) Last season was rough on Brian’s playbook, devised by an ex-college QB and son of Marty Shottenheimer.

Lions Ball Control (Weak) The Lions are looking to establish a power run game for 2008, then play action out of those same sets.

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

JETS

LIONS

PASS

RUN

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

PACKERS

SPEC.

McCarthy West Coast (Strong) It’ll be interesting to see how well this solid playbook fares without Brett Favre running the show. PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

TOTAL

19 100

PASS

RUN

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 153

SIGNATURE PLAY Gun > Half Left Scram 617… The Jets have good possession WRs; this play lets them find zone gaps to exploit.

SIGNATURE PLAY Shotgun > 40 Draw The Lions are keeping these plays secret for 2008, but one will surely showcase rookie RB Kevin Smith.

SIGNATURE PLAY Gun > Curl Flats With a new QB, the Packers will need plays that use shorter drops (3 or 5 step) and quicker routes.

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Jets 3-4 (Average) Top pick Vernon Gholston and free agent Calvin Pace should beef up the LB depth for this defense.

Lions Cover 2 (Very Weak) After ranking last defensively in ’07, the Lions have nowhere to go but up. A Cover 2 scheme can’t hurt…

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

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SIGNATURE PLAY 3-4 > OLB Dogs Fire 2 The Jets need to juice up their pass rush; this pressure play overloads the right side of the offensive line.

Packers 4 Across (Strong) The Packers have aging but still potent CBs; their talent makes this playbook effective.

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Cover 3 With all the new bodies expected in the secondary this year, a Cover 3 shift may help stop big passes.

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

SIGNATURE PLAY Nickel > Corners Man Zone The Packers can get away with mixed coverage on the edges to put greater pressure on the QB.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

NFL referee uniforms used to include bow ties.

CAROLINA

NEW ENGLAND

OAKLAND

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Davidson Balanced (Weak) Jeff Davidson likes to keep playbook concepts to a minimum but show a lot of looks from each one.

Patriots Air Strike (Very Strong) The team likes using four WRs on first or second down, surprising defenses going base instead of nickel.

Kiffin Pass Attack (Very Weak) Lane Kiffin’s playbook is about as shaky as his reportedly rocky relationship with the Raiders’ owner.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

PANTHERS

PASS

RUN

PATRIOTS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 133

RAIDERS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 123

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 134

SIGNATURE PLAY Near > Slant 21 Belly Davidson prefers “bread and butter” plays that he can rely on a consistent basis.

SIGNATURE PLAY Zero > Fac H 140 Scissors Combine motion behind the line with crossing routes to trip up opposing cornerbacks.

SIGNATURE PLAY I > Fake 10 789 F Flat With Darren McFadden in the mix, look for him as both a run/pass threat and decoy for the long pass.

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Panthers Pass Rush (Average) The team tried to get bigger and faster in the 2008 draft, which should help their playbook.

Patriots Pressure (Very Strong) This prolific playbook has a wide variety of blitzes; it’s tough to guess what the defense will give you.

Raiders Rover (Average) The defense is in search of an identity; 3-4 didn’t work a few years back but may with new personnel.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BLITZ

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MAN

TOTAL

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MAN

TOTAL

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ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Double X The team is expected to have lots of depth at LB; look for a lot of pass blitzes from that position.

PLAYBOOK STRATEGY

SIGNATURE PLAY 3-4 > Flash Blitz With a great defensive line, the Patriots can execute exotic blitzes without hurting pass coverage.

SIGNATURE PLAY Raiders Rover > Pinch Blitz Stopping the run is a big priority for the 2008 season; this play should help beef up the interior.

www.primagames.com

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWNS ST. LOUIS

BALTIMORE

WASHINGTON

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Saunders Big Book (Weak) Al Saunders has a reputation for big playbooks and big scoring—something the Rams lacked last season.

Cameron Power Run (Strong) Definitely a quality over quantity playbook; Cam Cameron definitely wants to run to set up the pass.

Zorn West Coast (Weak) Zorn’s playbook strives to strike a good run/pass balance similar to his Seahawks days in 2004 and ’05.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

RAMS

PASS

RUN

RAVENS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 120

REDSKINS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 101

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 156

SIGNATURE PLAY Singleback > 80 Power Sweep Saunders may need to tap the TE as an extra blocker to revitalize the run game. O-line health is a worry.

SIGNATURE PLAY Singlebk. > 98 Halfback Screen… Cameron has stated that RB Willis McGahee will carry the load both as runner and receiver.

SIGNATURE PLAY I > Fake 40 360 F Flat The Redskins have quality RBs and a sharp TE who can find space in the flats, as this play shows.

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Haslett Physical D (Very Weak) The Rams’ top draft pick should help Jim Haslett rev up the pass rush and revive this playbook.

Rex Ryan 46 (Very Strong) When you have the right personnel (especially at LB), the 46 has proven to be nearly unstoppable.

Redskins 4-3 (Weak) For 2008, the Redskins are looking to trim their playbook and make things simpler for their personnel.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

100

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Haslett Bracket Haslett has this 4-3 blitz play in his playbook; the goal is to overwhelm the weak side of the offensive line.

SIGNATURE PLAY 46 > LB Weak Blitz The Ravens like to rotate DEs with LBs on the weak side to confuse the QB and enhance the pass rush.

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Hog Buck 3 The Redskins are rebuilding, so no signature play yet—but an effective pass rush is a top priority.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

If you look closely while watching a game, you may see an official wearing a wrist strap connected to a finger loop. That device is used to keep track of downs and ball position.

NEW ORLEANS

SEATTLE

PITTSBURGH

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Payton Spread Attack (Strong) By spreading the field both horizontally and vertically, it opens up gaps for a speedy RB to exploit.

Holmgren West Coast (Very Strong) Holmgren’s playbook looked strong until he lost his key RB; there’s a good selection of plays to work with.

Steelers Smashmouth (Strong) Spread the field and pass to grab the lead, then run mercilessly to keep the lead and chew up clock.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

SAINTS

PASS

RUN

SEAHAWKS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 120

SPEC.

STEELERS

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

19 112

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 107

SIGNATURE PLAY Singlebk. > Zebra Right 40 Draw With an RB like Reggie Bush, you’ve got to give him touches and creative plays to establish the run.

SIGNATURE PLAY Gun > 72 Scram Z Dig Some say Holmgren passed too much in 2007—but what can you do when your run game fizzles?

SIGNATURE PLAY I > Ride 31 Belly No fancy tricks here: Follow your lead blocker and wear down the interior of the defense.

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Saints Basic D (Very Weak) A suspect secondary and LB corps in 2007 certainly didn’t help sell the merits of this shaky playbook.

Hawks Multiple Blitz (Average) This playbook works because the Seahawks have the talent to pass rush effectively.

LeBeau Zone Blitz (Very Strong) There’s talk that Tomlin would like to convert to the Tampa 2, but the Steelers’ 3-4 has proven potent.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > DE Contain The Saints’ top draft pick, DT Sedrick Ellis, should help the team reinvigorate its front-line push.

PLAYBOOK STRATEGY

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Strong Side Flat Z A reason for the team’s ability to stop the pass in 2007 was to make the QB think blitz—but call zone.

SIGNATURE PLAY LeBeau 3-4 > Smash Blitz The defense likes to hit hard and overwhelm the O-line with blitzes from unpredictable locations.

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PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWNS HOUSTON

TENNESSEE

MINNESOTA

OFFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Texans Power Run (Weak) The team needs to rethink this playbook or find healthy RBs to rely on; platooning may be an option in ’08.

Titans Power Run (Weak) The QB and RB talent in the backfield can execute this playbook; the passing game needs some help.

Childress Balanced (Average) If the Vikings can inject more pass verticality into this playbook, it will blow the run game wide open.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

TEXANS

TITANS

PASS

RUN

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

VIKINGS

SPEC.

TOTAL

PASS

RUN

SPEC.

TOTAL

19 122

SIGNATURE PLAY I Form > 20 Scat Y Option H… The TE was a welcome improvement for the offense in 2007; this play opens up options for him.

SIGNATURE PLAY Gun > W Freeze Em This play takes advantage of QB Vince Young’s athleticism as both a runner and scramble passer.

SIGNATURE PLAY Strong > F Short 31 Base 1. Give Adrian Peterson the ball. 2. Make a hole for him slip through. 3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 as needed.

DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOK

Texans No Blitz (Average) If the defense can find more LBs to back up MLB Demeco Ryans, this playbook may have some promise.

Titans Blitz Heavy (Average) That blitz bias explains the team’s ability to stop the run in 2007, averaging less than 95 yards per game.

Vikings Cover 2 (Weak) This is a decent playbook for the Vikings—if the secondary can stay healthy for the entire season.

PLAYBOOK BREAKDOWN

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

BLITZ

ZONE

MAN

TOTAL

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > 2 Man Under DE Williams and DT Okoye anchor the front four; use stunts to get them into the backfield.

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Mountainman Blitz The Titans were able to put consistent pressure on the QB in 2007, thanks to blitzes like the one below.

SIGNATURE PLAY 4-3 > Cover 2 It’s tough to balance pass rush with secondary support; try to man up to disguise your zone coverages.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

‘He’s calm on opening kickoff, and he’s calm when you’re down 21-3. … He’s just a cool customer. I think that really spreads through the rest of the team, that it cannot be a panic situation and you can’t try to get it all back at once.’

—Colts quarterback Peyton Manning on Tony Dungy

NFL TEAMS AFC EAST

AFC NORTH AFC SOUTH

AFC WEST

NFC EAST

NFC NORTH NFC SOUTH NFC WEST

124

138

100

102

120

136

114

112

144

122

116

142

126

132

118

134

110

104

130

140

106

108

128

www.primagames.com

USING THE TEAM PROFILES ASK EA SPORTS Will franchises shift to a new style of play? Yes. This all depends on what types of coaches you bring onto the team and what types of philosophies they bring to your team. CPU teams will certainly change styles throughout the career. When a CPU team has a bad year, the CPU owners look to shake things up and bring in new coaches to change the direction of the franchise. Some elite coordinators will actually demand that you fire the rest of the coaching staff. You might not be willing to do that as the user, but rest assured that at least one of the 31 other NFL teams will be willing to give up that control in order to have a Mike Martz-type of offensive coordinator on the coaching staff. Some coordinators will demand that their playbook be used, to scrap the old system. This will also change the face of the offense or defense and what types of players are best suited for that system.

This section is devoted to analyzing the NFL’s 32 teams for 2008. The profiles on the following pages are designed to not only help you pick a team to play and learn more about, but also as a tool to help scout your opponents. On the opposite page is an example team profile and some explanation of some of the more important elements to focus your attention on.

TEAM OWNERS

THE PEOPLE WHO SIGN YOUR PAYCHECK

Just like any other person in this game, each NFL team owner has a unique personality that plays a role in how their franchise develops from season to season. While the team owner names may be fictional (including the Packers’ John Q. Public, which seems to be an homage to the fact that the team is publicly owned), their ownership style reflects how these franchises actually operate. As you can imagine, some team owners are stubborn and demanding— the type of bosses who say “it’s my way or the highway.” Other team owners will be passive and relatively weaker. They won’t be as demanding or tough when it comes to negotiations. You’ll probably have more leeway to operate—and more time to develop your squad. To the right is a list of every team owner and their personality type, which will help you figure out the type of boss you’ll be dealing with.

OWNER NAME

TEAM

PERSONALITY TYPE

Edmund Farmer

49ers

Commander

Vernon Van Alstyne Marshall D. Pickering

Anchor Virtuoso

Bob Baines

Bills

Optimist

Donald Fisk

Broncos

Headliner

Sandy Burner

Browns

Guru

Bucs

Stoic

Ben Bidless

Cardinals

Virtuoso

Alexis Spangler

Chargers

Promoter

Chiefs

Ambassador

John Barclay III

Thomas Koop Walter Kendrick

Colts

Captain

Randy Redstone

Cowboys

Super Star

Hyde Singer

Dolphins

Lone Wolf

Eagles

Analyst

William Kovner Anderson P. Haskell Alfred Linderman Layne Cleaver

Falcons

Headliner

Giants

Commander

Jaguars

Ally

J.B. Booth

Jets

Loyalist

Don Bored

Lions

Optimist

John Q. Public

Packers

Optimist

Gary Richards

Panthers

Optimist

Henry Ross Hughes

Patriots

Commander

Charles G. Winningham

Raiders

Titan

Raymond P. Goodnight Michael Diamond Jr. Peter Ambrose Jefferson Boudreaux Allen Paul Robert Meade Cal Montgomery Alex Gold Mitchell R. Davidson

A useful tool for evaluating your team is the Player Breakdown, accessible through your Roster. Check it often to see which positions of need require attention.

Bears Bengals

Rams

Ally

Ravens

Promoter

Redskins

Super Star

Saints

Stoic

Seahawks

Analyst

Steelers

Anchor

Texans

Headliner

Titans

Promoter

Vikings

Lone Wolf

You’d be surprised to learn how much info there is available on your coaching staff. In your Clipboard, go to Team > Develop Staff and view the Staff Cards.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Tackle Roosevelt Brown is the lowest-round draft pick ever elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame. The New York Giants took Rosey in the 27th round (321st overall) in 1953.

By the Numbers: In addition to your 2007 team record and team ratings (up to a maximum of 99 for each), you’ll see the amount of cap space available for the 2008 season, and find out if it’s above or below the average NFL level ($39.8 million).

2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: This is a partial overview of the team’s real-life free agency activity this off-season. The main focus was on players ranked 80+ OVR, although other positions of note are also included.

Profile of the current Head Coach: Take special note of his overall skill level as well as number of special skills.

Coach and Staff Overall Skill Ratings: Look for coaching weakness or inexperience (anything under 25). Pay special attention to the trainer and GM. A skilled trainer can heal injuries faster; a skilled GM will be a more productive talent scout.

TEAM PROFILES

2008 Schedule: Review your schedule to see when your toughest and most important games will occur. Rest your starters before these big match-ups. Also look to see when your bye week occurs: It’s an extra week of practice (or rest) for your team.

Depth Charts: Review your default 2008 pre-season roster at a glance. The depth chart at each position is read from left (the projected starter) to right. Positions in red are considered thin in either talent and/or total players on the roster at that spot. Each player is listed with their jersey number and overall rating. In NFL Head Coach 09, overall ratings change based on the team philosophy and playbooks used—so the numbers you see on screen may be slightly different. Still, for comparative purposes, you can use these numbers to gauge the level of talent at each position.

Default Playbooks: Each NFL team has a default offensive and defensive playbook; these are the playbooks you’ll most likely encounter when playing against the CPU during your first season. For this strategy guide, a full season was simulated for each NFL team, and a list of the most successful offensive and defensive plays was compiled. Obviously, many variables go into whether a play is successful or not, but these lists can give you a little insight into the type of plays and formations a CPU opponent might throw at you during a game.

Top 2008 Draft Picks: This is the real-life list of players chosen by each team in the 2008 NFL Draft. While you may not agree with all the picks a team made, it’ll give you a better sense of the players that you might want to keep an eye on if you plan to redo the off-season.

www.primagames.com

CHICAGO BEARS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC North:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

7-9 4-4 3-5 2-4

78 73 87

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

DEFENSE RATING

Kansas City Chiefs

At Seattle Seahawks

San Francisco 49ers

At Cleveland Browns

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The quarterback position lacks long-term promise, and the defense is aging. You’ll need to upgrade the offensive playbook, utilize Devin Hester in the offensive scheme, and stretch the field with longer pass plays. Overall Player Grade: BRedoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: You’d think QB would be an obvious need—and it is—but no passer will be safe if the Bears don’t find some fresh bodies for the team’s offensive line. The team has also had trouble establishing a “go-to” RB, and lost several WRs in free agency. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Bernard Berrian (WR) to Vikings, Ruben Brown (LG). Re-signed Lance Briggs (ROLB), Rex Grossman (QB). 2009 Notable Free Agents: Olin Kreutz (C), Tommie Harris (DT)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$23.4

At Indianapolis Colts

At Carolina Panthers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Philadelphia Eagles

At Detroit Lions

At Atlanta Falcons

Minnesota Vikings

Bye Week

Detroit Lions

Tennessee Titans

At Green Bay Packers

At St. Louis Rams

At Minnesota Vikings

Jacksonville Jaguars

New Orleans Saints

Green Bay Packers

At Houston Texans

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

79 LOVIE SMITH Current Approval: 76 Personality: Stoic Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 48 Special Skills: 1 of 44

48 17 23 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

7 QB

39 32 25 RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

49 5 11

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

4 T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The Chicago Bears are probably the only team to ever draft two future Hall of Fame players in the same round. In the first round of the 1965 draft, the Bears utilized back-to-back picks to select linebacker Dick Butkus and running back Gale Sayers.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

C D+ B- B B- F C- A A A- B B A A- B+ F A-

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Bears Power Run

Default Playbook: Lovie Cover 2

Playbook Strength: Weak (128 plays)

Playbook Strength: Average (70 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. I Form > Flea Flicker 79 2.8 yds. I Form > 98 H Pass 77 2.7 yds. Singleback > 96 H Counter 75 3.2 yds. I Form > Fake 92 Y Corner F Flat 72 3.2 yds. I Form > Fake 90 F Flat 71 3.0 yds. Gun > HB Flare 71 4.4 yds. I Form > Fake 34 F 97 Toss 71 3.1 yds.

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Quarter > Prevent 63 2.1 yds. Tampa 2 > Cover 2 Stunt 55 3.1 yds. Tampa 2 > Gap Shoot Bucs 2 54 3.1 yds. Tampa 2 > Base Cover 2 53 3.3 yds. Tampa 2 > Bucs 2 52 3.4 yds. Tampa 2 > Bucs 2 Line Pinch 51 3.5 yds. Tampa 2 > Fire Cover 2 50 3.6 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Chris Williams OT / Vanderbilt Matt Forte RB / Tulane Earl Bennett WR / Vanderbilt Craig Steltz S / LSU Zackary Bowman CB / Nebraska Kellen Davis TE / Michigan State Ervin Baldwin DE / Michigan State 5 players chosen DE / G / OLB / T / WR

www.primagames.com

CINCINNATI BENGALS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC North:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

7-9 5-3 2-6 3-3

75 89 68

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

At Green Bay Packers

Detroit Lions

New Orleans Saints

At Indianapolis Colts

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The Bengals are in disarray. While they have talent on offense, they’ve struggled to win games. Upgrades to the defense will be necessary to get this team back on track. Overall Player Grade: C+ Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Focus on defense. You’ll need a defensive tackle to stiffen the run defense, and a defensive end as well as a safety to offset free agency departures. You can round out your offseason moves with a LB and a TE to augment the passing game. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Justin Smith (RE) to the 49ers. Franchised Stacy Andrews (LG). Signed Antwan Odom (LE).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Shayne Graham (K), T.J. Houshmandzadeh (WR)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$52.1

At Baltimore Ravens

Tennessee Titans

At New York Giants

Cleveland Browns

At Dallas Cowboys

At New York Jets

Pittsburgh Steelers

Bye Week

Jacksonville Jaguars

At Houston Texans

Philadelphia Eagles

At Pittsburgh Steelers

Baltimore Ravens

At Indianapolis Colts

Washington Redskins

At Cleveland Browns

Kansas City Chiefs

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

99 67 MARVIN LEWIS Current Approval: 55 Personality: Titan Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 38 Special Skills: 0 of 44

38 Head Coach

33 38 OFF

72 68

DEF ST Coordinators

22 14 11 QB

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The football atop the Vince Lombardi Trophy is the exact same size as a real NFL football.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

A B+ A B B- B C+ B- A B- B- C B B C B B

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Bengals Vertical Pass

Defense: Zimmer 4-3

Playbook Strength: Strong (109 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Weak (80 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. I > 989 F Screen Right 100 7.4 yds. Gun > X Screen 100 6.1 yds. I > Scram Right 22 Wheel 100 5.6 yds. Gun > Quick Scram Rt 770 Backs 100 5.4 yds. Gun > Fake 21 842 F Swing 100 4.1 yds. I > Read Right 939 H Post 97 13.0 yds. Gun > Quick Scram Rt 980 Flare 95 7.8 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. 4-4 > Double DE Spy 58 2.7 yds. 4-4 > LB Fire 54 3.2 yds. 4-4 > Cover 2 Man 49 3.9 yds. 4-3 > Strong Flat 3 47 4.0 yds. 4-3 > Over 3 Strong 46 4.2 yds. 4-3 > Wildcat 45 4.3 yds. Dime > Zone Man X 45 4.4 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Keith Rivers LB / Southern Cal Jerome Simpson WR / Coastal Carolina Pat Sims DT / Auburn Andre Caldwell WR / Florida Anthony Collins OT / Kansas Jason Shirley DT / Fresno State Corey Lynch FS / Appalach. State 3 players chosen TE / DE / WR

R6 R7

www.primagames.com

BUFFALO BILLS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC East:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

7-9 4-4 3-5 4-2

74 71 75

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

DEFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW

At Washington Redskins

Pittsburgh Steelers

At Indianapolis Colts

Detroit Lions

REGULAR SEASON

Season Outlook: The Bills last season came close to earning a playoff spot. The talent on this team is subpar overall but decent enough in spots to build upon, and the playbook is fairly weak. The team needs to break its recent history of slow season starts and stop blowing late-game leads. Overall Player Grade Grade: C+

1 2

Seattle Seahawks At Jacksonville Jaguars

Oakland Raiders

At St. Louis Rams

Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Needs on offense include a tight end and some depth at running back. You also need a wide receiver: Either a possession-type wideout to enhance the pass game, or a speedster to open up run lanes. On defense, look to rebuild the CB position.

At Arizona Cardinals

Bye Week

San Diego Chargers

At Miami Dolphins

2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Signed Kawika Mitchell (ROLB).

New York Jets

2009 Notable Free Agents: None

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$46.7

At New England Patriots

Cleveland Browns

At Kansas City Chiefs

San Francisco 49ers

Miami Dolphins

At New York Jets

At Denver Broncos

New England Patriots

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

99 DICK JAURON Current Approval: 81 Personality: Ambassador Difficulty: Very Hard Overall Skill: 46 Special Skills: 5 of 44

46 20 Head Coach

OFF

34 DEF ST Coordinators

7 18 QB

9 11

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

35 28

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

53 24 T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Helmets were not required as mandatory gear until 1943; most helmets during that era were made out of leather and padding.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

C+ B- B B C B- B- B- A C+ B+ B- C+ D- B- B+ A

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Bills Balanced

Defense: Bills Cover 2

Playbook Strength: Very Weak (114 plays)

Playbook Strength: Average (66 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singleback > Flea Flicker 100 3.3 yds. Singleback > 40 H Counter 73 3.4 yds. Strong > Fake 10 869 F Flat 73 3.3 yds. Singleback > 80 Stretch 72 3.2 yds. Singleback > Boot Rt. 819 U Cross 71 3.2 yds. Singleback > Scram Rt.709 H Swing 71 3.1 yds. Singleback > Boot Rt 879 Dig 71 3.2 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Quarter > Prevent 63 2.1 yds. 4-3 Tampa 2 > Cover 2 Stunt 57 2.8 yds. 4-3 Tampa 2 > SS Snake 3 Stay 56 3.0 yds. 4-3 Tampa 2 > Cover 2 Buc 55 3.1 yds. 4-3 Tampa 2 > Cover 2 QB Spy 55 3.1 yds. 4-3 Tampa 2 > 2 Man Under 51 3.5 yds. 4-3 Tampa 2 > Cover 1 51 3.6 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Leodis McKelvin CB / Troy James Hardy WR / Indiana Chris Ellis DE / Virginia Tech Reggie Corner CB / Akron Derek Fine TE / Kansas Alvin Bowen OLB / Iowa State Xavier Omon RB / NW Missouri St. 3 players chosen OT / WR / CB

www.primagames.com

DENVER BRONCOS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC West:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

7-9 5-3 2-6 3-3

82 86 77

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

At Houston Texans

Dallas Cowboys

Green Bay Packers

At Arizona Cardinals

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The team has talent, but the scheme and coaching staff are starting to show their age. Quarterback Jay Cutler could blossom with more playmakers on offense, and the run defense needs to improve. The Broncos in recent years have assembled lackluster draft classes, so scouting efforts need to improve. Overall Player Grade: B Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Continue to build the defensive line as well as the offensive line. Consider using one of your higher draft picks on a wide receiver. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Jason Elam (K) to the Falcons.

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: John Lynch (FS) (Note: Lynch may consider retirement before 2009), Tom Nalen (C)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$57.4

At Oakland Raiders

San Diego Chargers

New Orleans Saints

At Kansas City Chiefs

6 7

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Jacksonville Jaguars At New England Patriots

Bye Week

Miami Dolphins

At Cleveland Browns

At Atlanta Falcons

Oakland Raiders

At New York Jets

Kansas City Chiefs

At Carolina Panthers

Buffalo Bills

At San Diego Chargers

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

MIKE SHANAHAN Current Approval: 83 Personality: Commander Difficulty: Medium Overall Skill: 79 Special Skills: 6 of 44

26 25 27 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

12 QB

11 11 18 16 9

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The NFL logo has been updated for 2008: The eight stars represent the eight AFC and NFC divisions; the football has been stylized to look more like the one atop the Vince Lombardi Trophy.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B+ B C+ B B+ F B A B+ B B- B+ D+ A D- A B+

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Shanahan Zone Block

Defense: Broncos Man Cover

Playbook Strength: Strong (130 plays)

Playbook Strength: Weak (81 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singleback > P 91 Slam H Check 100 5.8 yds. Singleback > P 92 Dive Z Corner 100 5.1 yds. Singleback > Z Slip Screen 99 4.7 yds. Singlebk. > Fake 98 Boot Lt Y Cross 97 6.8 yds. I > Fake 98 Boot Left X Come 97 5.7 yds. Gun > 322 Semi 95 4.3 yds. Near > P 92 Y Flag 90 5.3 yds.

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Nickel > DBL Z Bracket 51 2.8 yds. Dime > 2 Man Under 51 3.5 yds. Dime > All Out Blitz 51 3.5 yds. 4-3 > 2 Deep 51 3.5 yds. 4-3 > 2 Man Under 50 3.6 yds. 4-3 > Broncos Base D 50 3.7 yds. 4-3 > Cover 1 49 3.9 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Ryan Clady OT / Boise State Eddie Royal WR / Virginia Tech Kory Lichtensteiger OG / Bowling Green Jack Williams CB / Kent State Ryan Torain RB / Arizona State Carlton Powell DT / Virginia Tech Spencer Larsen OLB / Arizona 2 players chosen S / FB

www.primagames.com

CLEVELAND BROWNS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC North:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

10-6 7-1 3-5 3-3

84 89 69

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

Season Outlook: The Browns had a breakout season in 2007 and almost earned a playoff spot. This young team has playmakers, a promising QB in development, and a bright future. Overall Player Grade: B+ Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: A cornerback should be your top priority, followed closely by linebacker to augment depth for the team’s 3-4 scheme. On offense, look for a dependable back-up for running back Jamal Lewis. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Signed Donte Stallworth (WR), Rex Hadnot (RG). Re-signed Derek Anderson (QB). 2009 Notable Free Agents: Willie McGinest (LOLB)

$29.7

At Detroit Lions

Chicago Bears

Dallas Cowboys

Pittsburgh Steelers

At Baltimore Ravens

At Cincinnati Bengals

Bye Week

New York Giants

At Washington Redskins At Jacksonville Jaguars

Baltimore Ravens

Denver Broncos

At Buffalo Bills

Houston Texans

Indianapolis Colts

At Tennessee Titans

16 17

MILLION

Current Approval: 87 Personality: Stoic Difficulty: Medium Overall Skill: 52 Special Skills: 5 of 44

At New York Giants

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

ROMEO CRENNEL

New York Jets

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW

DEFENSE RATING

HEAD COACH

At Philadelphia Eagles Cincinnati Bengals At Pittsburgh Steelers

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

52 57

25 24 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

66 61

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

21 11 12

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

33 GM

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

One of the entertainment highlights at Super Bowl I was the flight of a pair of jetpack-strapped men into the stadium.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B+ B B- B+ A B+ B B+ A- B B B+ B C B- B B

TOP 2008 PICKS R4

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Chudzinski Balanced

Defense: Browns Rush Passer

Playbook Strength: Average (116 plays)

Playbook Strength: Average (84 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. I > 20 Draw 100 5.3 yds. Singleback > Fake 38 Zone Z Cross 92 7.9 yds. Strong > 23 Belly 80 3.9 yds. Singleback > Zip 30 Dive 75 3.5 yds. I > Boot Rt Y Pivot X Over 75 3.2 yds. Strong > 470 Circle F Swing 72 3.1 yds. Strong > 78 Y Option H Angle 72 3.0 yds.

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Nickel > FS Sam Crash 53 3.4 yds. Nickel > SS Mike Cross 52 3.4 yds. Nickel > Inside Zone Blitz 50 3.7 yds. Nickel > Cover 2 50 3.7 yds. Nickel > 2 Man Under 46 4.2 yds. 3-4 > Strike Spy 2 46 4.2 yds. Nickel > Man QB Spy 45 4.4 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Beau Bell OLB / UNLV Martin Rucker TE / Missouri Ahtyba Rubin DT / Iowa State Paul Hubbard WR / Wisconsin Alex Hall DE / St. Augustine

www.primagames.com

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC South:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

9-7 6-2 3-5 5-1

90 85 94

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

At Miami Dolphins

New England Patriots

Jacksonville Jaguars

At Houston Texans

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW

Season Outlook: The team surprised many NFL experts by clinching the NFC South last season. The running game needs to be revitalized, and the aging defense needs fresh blood. However, overall the team and coaching staff are both solid. Overall Player Grade: A Draft Outlook: It probably wouldn’t hurt to find a talented wideout who can augment the veteran talent at that position. Top defensive needs are at DT to shore up the middle and at CB to replace free agency losses. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Signed Eugene Wilson (FS), Jeff Faine (C), Warrick Dunn (RB). Unknown status for Jeremiah Trotter (MLB).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: None

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$43.7

At New Orleans Saints

Atlanta Falcons

At Chicago Bears

Green Bay Packers

At Denver Broncos

Carolina Panthers

Seattle Seahawks

At Dallas Cowboys

At Kansas City Chiefs

Bye Week

Minneapolis Vikings

At Detroit Lions

New Orleans Saints

At Carolina Panthers

At Atlanta Falcons

San Diego Chargers

Oakland Raiders

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

99 77 76

74 JON GRUDEN Current Approval: 85 Personality: Headliner Difficulty: Medium Overall Skill: 74 Special Skills: 9 of 44

46 Head Coach

OFF

53 34 DEF ST Coordinators

22 QB

39 5

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

27 LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

14 21 T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

NFL players can only wear tinted helmet visors or tinted eye shields if approved by a doctor. Clear visors are optional.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

A- B B- B+ B B C- B+ B B B A- B- B B- B B+

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Gruden West Coast

Defense: Tampa 2

Playbook Strength: Strong (137 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (60 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Strong > Fake 98 Boot Lt Y Cross 100 5.8 yds. Singlebk. > Fake 91 Boot Rt Y Pivot 99 7.2 yds. Gun > P 33 Bob X Dig 98 6.2 yds. Split > 20 Z Corner H Flow 98 5.0 yds. I Form > Fake 98 Boot Lt Y Cross 98 5.6 yds. Singlebk. > Fake 63 Boot Rt U Cross 97 7.2 yds. I Form > 22 Y Flag H Flare 96 4.8 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Nickel > Nickel 2 57 2.7 yds. Dime > Bucs 2 DT Spy 51 3.6 yds. 4-3 > Base Cover 2 49 3.8 yds. Nickel > Kiffin 2 49 3.9 yds. 4-3 > Cover 2 QB Spy 48 3.9 yds. 4-3 > 2 Stunt 48 3.9 yds. Nickel > Dungy 2 Under Deep 48 3.9 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Aqib Talib CB / Kansas Dexter Jackson WR / Appalachian St. Jeremy Zuttah OG / Rutgers Dre Moore DT / Maryland Josh Johnson QB / San Diego Geno Hayes MLB / Florida State Cory Boyd RB / South Carolina

www.primagames.com

ARIZONA CARDINALS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC West:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

8-8 6-2 2-6 3-3

82 88 76

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

New Orleans Saints

At Kansas City Chiefs

At Oakland Raiders

Denver Broncos

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW

Season Outlook: The Cardinals started a new era in 2007 and showed signs of life at times. Unanswered questions persist at quarterback and on defense. The secondary unit is fairly solid. Overall Player Grade: B Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Look for a young running back who can deliver long-term consistency at that position. On defense, look for another defensive end who can pass rush. Also consider adding depth to the offensive line as well as at cornerback. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Franchised Karlos Dansby (ROLB). Unknown status for Mitch Berger (P).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Scott Player (P), Kurt Warner (QB)

2 3

$30.3

Miami Dolphins At Washington Redskins At New York Jets

Buffalo Bills

Dallas Cowboys

Bye Week

At Carolina Panthers

At St. Louis Rams

San Francisco 49ers

At Seattle Seahawks

New York Giants At Philadelphia Eagles

St. Louis Rams

Minneapolis Vikings

MILLION

At San Francisco 49ers

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

HEAD COACH

At New England Patriots Seattle Seahawks

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

99 76 KEN WHISENHUNT Current Approval: 77 Personality: Loyalist Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 39 Special Skills: 2 of 44

64 44

39 11

Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

21 16 14

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

33 GM

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Eight of the last 10 top NFL Draft picks (1998-2007) were quarterbacks. The other two were defensive ends.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B B+ B B B- D+ B- B- A- C B B+ B C- B- A B

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Whisenhunt Power Run

Defense: Cardinals Blitz

Playbook Strength: Average (120 plays)

Playbook Strength: Strong (85 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. I > 92 Slant H Shoot 75 3.5 yds. I > Jab 37 Kick 75 3.7 yds. Gun > 52 Post X Under 74 10.0 yds. I > Toss 38 G 73 3.6 yds. I > 64 Post Y Dig 72 3.3 yds. Gun > Z Slip Screen 72 2.8 yds. I > 64 Exxon Z Post 71 3.4 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. 3-4 > Cover 3 62 2.2 yds. 3-4 > Weak Side Surprise 55 3.1 yds. 3-4 > Trio Whip Man 54 3.0 yds. Nickel > Stunt Blitz 54 3.0 yds. 3-4 > Boom 53 3.4 yds. 4-3 > SS Snake Blitz 52 3.4 yds. 3-4 > Swoop Blitz 51 3.5 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie CB / Tennessee State Calais Campbell DE / Miami Early Doucet WR / LSU Kenny Iwebema DE / Iowa Tim Hightower RB / Richmond Chris Harrington DE / Texas A&M Brandon Keith OT / Northern Iowa

www.primagames.com

SAN DIEGO CHARGERS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC West:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

11-5 7-1 4-4 5-1

94 94 89

TEAM OVERVIEW

Carolina Panthers At Denver Broncos

New York Jets

Draft Outlook: Other than a back-up running back, the team doesn’t have any truly pressing needs. You might want to consider adding depth to the front lines by drafting an offensive or defensive tackle, or seek a versatile player who can play either cornerback or safety.

At Oakland Raiders

At Miami Dolphins

New England Patriots

At Buffalo Bills

2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Michael Turner (HB) to the Falcons.

2009 Notable Free Agents: Nick Hardwick (C), Mike Goff (RG), Tony Pape (LT)

At New Orleans Saints

Bye Week

Kansas City Chiefs

At Pittsburgh Steelers

Indianapolis Colts

Atlanta Falcons

Oakland Raiders

At Kansas City Chiefs

MILLION

At Tampa Bay Buccaneers Denver Broncos

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

At San Francisco 49ers

$25.7

Current Approval: 78 Personality: Guru Difficulty: Easy Overall Skill: 49 Special Skills: 6 of 44

Seattle Seahawks

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

NORV TURNER

At St. Louis Rams

REGULAR SEASON

Season Outlook: The Chargers stumbled out the gate last year but rebounded and beat the Colts in the playoffs. This team is loaded with talent. Overall Player Grade: A

DEFENSE RATING

HEAD COACH

Dallas Cowboys

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

60 58 51

21 Head Coach

OFF

79 82

16 14 DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

According to NFL rules, a muff is defined as the touching of the football by a player in an unsuccessful attempt to obtain possession of a loose ball.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

A- A- D B A B- B+ A- A B+ B A C+ B- C+ C B

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Super Chargers Attack

Defense: Chargers Pass Rush

Playbook Strength: Strong (96 plays)

Playbook Strength: Average (66 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singleback > 89 Halfback Pass 100 8.1 yds. Weak > Half Right 670 China 100 6.7 yds. Weak > Scat Rt X Z Cross 100 6.3 yds. Gun > Scram Rt 525 Backs Swing 100 5.8 yds. Singleback > Scat Rt 519 Angle 100 5.6 yds. I > Scat Rt 70 Y Option 100 5.6 yds. Singleback > Rip Rt 215 Seam 100 5.4 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Attacking Nickel > SS Mike Cross 53 3.2 yds. Attacking Dime > SS Mike Cross 53 3.2 yds. Attacking 3-4 > Strike Spy 2 49 3.8 yds. Attacking 3-4 > Strong Blitz 49 3.9 yds. Attacking 3-4 > Cover 3 48 3.9 yds. Attacking Nickel > SS Zone Blitz 48 3.9 yds. Attack. Dime > Outside Zone Blitz 47 4.0 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Antoine Cason CB / Arizona Jacob Hester FB / LSU Marcus Thomas RB / Texas-El Paso DeJuan Tribble CB / Boston College Corey Clark OT / Texas A&M

www.primagames.com

KANSAS CITY CHIEFS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC West:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

4-12 2-6 2-6 2-4

74 67 82

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

At Chicago Bears

Arizona Cardinals

At Miami Dolphins

St. Louis Rams

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW

Season Outlook: The team has a few superstars but not much talent after that. The offensive line needs help, and the starting QB situation is still up for grabs. Overall Player Grade: C+

At New England Patriots

Oakland Raiders

At Atlanta Falcons

Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Rebuild the offensive line and look for cornerbacks on defense. Consider a wideout with one of the lower picks. If you’re worried about RB health, a back-up halfback might help ease the load on Larry Johnson.

Denver Broncos

At Carolina Panthers

Bye Week

Tennessee Titans

2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Did not re-sign John Welbourn (RG). Signed Demorrio Williams (ROLB). Unknown status for John Carney (K).

At New York Jets

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Tony Gonzalez (TE), Rob Smith (C)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$61.4

Tampa Bay Buccaneers At San Diego Chargers

New Orleans Saints

Buffalo Bills

At Oakland Raiders

At Denver Broncos

San Diego Chargers

Miami Dolphins

At Cincinnati Bengals

MILLION

HEAD COACH

HERMAN EDWARDS Current Approval: 52 Personality: Super Star Difficulty: Very Hard Overall Skill: 41 Special Skills: 4 of 44

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

41 36 Head Coach

OFF

63 58 56

58 10 19 5

DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

23 1

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Kansas City Chiefs kicker Jan Stenerud was the first kicker elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B- B+ C+ C- B- F B C- B- C+ F B+ A A- C B- B+

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Chiefs Grind It Out

Defense: Chiefs Old School

Playbook Strength: Very Weak (89 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Weak (58 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Strong I > Rip Rt 414 F Check 100 5.3 yds. Singleback > Rip Rt 586 H Option 100 5.3 yds. Singlebk. > Scram Rt 819 U Shake 100 4.4 yds. Strong I > Fake 20 670 F Flat 94 7.3 yds. Singlebk. > Scram Rt 709 H Swing 92 4.2 yds. Gun > Fake 22 826 F Swing 91 4.5 yds. Singlebk. > Fake 28 86 H Flat 90 4.7 yds.

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. 4-3 > Free Fire 53 3.3 yds. Dime > Cover 2 Pinch 52 3.3 yds. 4-3 > Cover 2 QB Spy 52 3.4 yds. 4-3 > Cover 2 Edge 52 3.4 yds. 4-3 > Cover 2 Buc 49 3.8 yds. 4-3 > Cover 3 48 4.0 yds. Dime > Cover 2 48 3.9 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Glenn Dorsey DT / LSU Branden Albert OG / Virginia Brandon Flowers CB / Virginia Tech Jamaal Charles RB / Texas Brad Cottam TE / Tennessee DaJuan Morgan S / North Carolina St. Will Franklin WR / Missouri 5 players chosen CB / OT / WR / DE / TE

R1 R1 R1

www.primagames.com

INDIANAPOLIS COLTS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC South:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

13-3 6-2 7-1 5-1

96 97 97

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

DEFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: This is a great team for beginners, given the great coaching staff, wealth of talent, and solid playbooks. If the team can stay healthy at key positions, the Colts are poised for yet another division title. Overall Player Grade: A+ Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: The Colts are rather thin at linebacker and could benefit from more depth on the defensive line. On offense, look for back-ups for both offensive tackle and running back. In real life, the Colts didn’t make any major moves in free agency—so you probably don’t have to either. Focus on the draft instead. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Re-signed Josh Thomas (DE).

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$35.9

Buffalo Bills

Cincinnati Bengals

REGULAR SEASON 1

Chicago Bears

At Minn. Vikings

Jacksonville Jaguars

Bye Week

At Houston Texans

Baltimore Ravens

At Green Bay Packers

At Tennessee Titans

New England Patriots At Pittsburgh Steelers

Houston Texans

At S. Diego Chargers

At Cleveland Browns

Cincinnati Bengals

Detroit Lions

Tennessee Titans

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

99 89 92

90 88

TONY DUNGY

100

At Atlanta Falcons

At Jacksonville Jaguars

99 99

Current Approval: 98 Personality: Anchor Difficulty: Easy Overall Skill: 99 Special Skills: 12 of 44

At Carolina Panthers

MILLION

HEAD COACH

2009 Notable Free Agents: Jeff Saturday (C)

At Washington Redskins

35 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

52 33

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The first sudden NFL overtime game took place in 1958 when the Baltimore Colts beat the New York Giants 23-17.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

A+ B+ C+ A- C- B D+ B- A+ A B- C B+ B- B A A

TOP 2008 PICKS R2

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Tom Moore Pass Attack

Defense: Dungy Cover 2

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (158 plays)

Playbook Strength: Strong (57 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Gun > 505 X Post 100 6.2 yds. Singleback > 210 X Clown 100 3.7 yds. Singlebk. > 18 Pitch Halfback Pass 99 4.7 yds. Gun > 505 Z Smash 96 5.6 yds. Singleback > 210 Z Corner Y Flat 94 4.2 yds. Singlebk. > F Right Hot Weak Flood 92 11.0 yds. Singlebk. > 218 X Z Comeback 92 7.4 yds.

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. D. Dime Cvr 2 > Bucs 2 Norm. Pinch 59 2.3 yds. D. Nickel Cvr 2 > D. 2 Under Deep 54 3.2 yds. Dungy 4-3 Cvr 2 > Bucs 2 53 3.3 yds. Dungy 4-3 Cvr 2 > Cover 2 Edge 53 3.4 yds. D. Nickel Cvr 2 > Cover 2 QB Spy 53 3.4 yds. Dungy Dime Cvr 2 > Edge Buc 2 52 3.4 yds. Dungy 4-3 Cvr 2 > CVR 2 Stunt 50 3.7 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Mike Pollak OT / Arizona State Philip Wheeler OLB / Georgia Tech Jacob Tamme TE / Kentucky Marcus Howard OLB / Georgia Tom Santi TE / Virginia Steve Justice C / Wake Forest Mike Hart RB / Michigan 2 players chosen WR / OL

R2 R2

101

www.primagames.com

DALLAS COWBOYS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC East:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

13-3 6-2 7-1 5-1

94 96 91

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

Season Outlook: Tony Romo came into his own, turning into a franchise quarterback. The team has talent, great coaches and a strong playbook. Overall Player Grade: A Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Look for a running back and a wide receiver on offense to add depth at both those positions, and build more depth at cornerback on defense. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Franchised Ken Hamlin (FS). Signed Cory Lekkerkerker (LG), Zach Thomas (LB). Re-signed Marion Barber (HB), Flozell Adams (LT). 2009 Notable Free Agents: Terrell Owens (WR), Zach Thomas (MLB)

Minneapolis Vikings

At Cleveland Browns

Philadelphia Eagles

At Green Bay Packers

Washington Redskins

Cincinnati Bengals

At Arizona Cardinals

At St. Louis Rams Tampa Bay Buccaneers

At New York Giants

Bye Week At Washington Redskins

San Francisco 49ers

Seattle Seahawks

At Pittsburgh Steelers

New York Giants

Baltimore Ravens

MILLION

At Philadelphia Eagles

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

102

Houston Texans

$29.3

Current Approval: 85 Personality: Guru Difficulty: Very Easy Overall Skill: 62 Special Skills: 4 of 44

At Denver Broncos

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

WADE PHILLIPS

At S. Diego Chargers

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW

DEFENSE RATING

HEAD COACH

62 32 33 30 27 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

12 LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The most recent number one NFL Draft pick who’s also in the Pro Football Hall of Fame: Troy Aikman (chosen in 1989).

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B+ D+ C+ A- B- B B- B+ B+ B- B- B+ A B- B A A+

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Garrett Pass Attack

Defense: Phillips 3-4

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (130 plays)

Playbook Strength: Strong (67 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singlebk. > Fake 20 Smash Z Pivot 100 4.8 yds. Gun > 25 Power 100 4.2 yds. Gun > Quick Scat Rt 496 H Opti 100 4.0 yds. I > Flea Flicker 100 5.7 yds. Near > 25 Counter 95 4.8 yds. I > Fake 20 Lead Q Naked 94 2.8 yds. Gun > Read Rt 426 Drag 93 6.3 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Dime > Cover 2 68 1.5 yds. Dime > 2 Man Under 65 1.5 yds. 3-4 > SS Blitz 54 3.2 yds. 3-4 > Pinch 53 3.4 yds. Dime > 3 Spy Blitz 52 3.5 yds. 3-4 > Strike Spy 2 50 3.6 yds. 3-4 > 2 Deep MLB Spy 49 3.8 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Felix Jones RB / Arkansas F Mike Jenkins CB / South Florida F Martellus Bennett TE / Texas A&M F Tashard Choice RB / Georgia Tech F Orlando Scandrick CB / Boise State F Erik Walden DE / Middle Tennessee State

103

www.primagames.com

MIAMI DOLPHINS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC East:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

1-15 1-7 0-8 0-6

68 65 72

2 At Jacksonville Jaguars

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

DEFENSE RATING

3 4

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: You’ll be starting from scratch with the Dolphins: meager talent, new coaching staff and a weak playbook. Prepare yourself for a big challenge. On the plus side: A relatively easier regular-season schedule for 2008. Overall Player Grade: CRedoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: The Dolphins have a long shopping list to take care of, but the most pressing need is the offensive line. Use the team’s first pick on the best OT available (Jake Long of Michigan). After that, look for a DE or DT, and then perhaps a WR. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Cory Lekkerkerker (LG) to the Cowboys, Rex Hadnot (RG) to the Browns. Signed Josh McCown (QB). 2009 Notable Free Agents: None

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$58.5

MILLION

HEAD COACH

104

Kansas City Chiefs At New Orleans Saints

REGULAR SEASON 1

New York Jets

At Arizona Cardinals

At New England Patriots

Bye Week

San Diego Chargers

At Houston Texans

Baltimore Ravens

Buffalo Bills

At Denver Broncos

Seattle Seahawks

Oakland Raiders

New England Patriots

At St. Louis Rams

At Buffalo Bills

San Francisco 49ers

At Kansas City Chiefs

At New York Jets

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

TONY SPARANO Current Approval: 80 Personality: Captain Difficulty: Very Hard Overall Skill: 37 Special Skills: 4 of 44

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

37 34 Head Coach

OFF

20 DEF ST Coordinators

10 QB

16 11

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

14 T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

NFL coaches are reserved a special six-foot-wide walking area marked by a yellow line that separates the field from the players’ benches.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B- B C- B- B- F F B- B+ B- B B- B+ C+ C+ B- F

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Sparano Balanced

Defense: Pasqualoni Pass Rush

Playbook Strength: Weak (110 plays)

Playbook Strength: Weak (67 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singleback > Zip 20 Dive 74 3.5 yds. Singleback > Scram Rt 549 H Swing 74 3.3 yds. I > 24 Tight Zone 73 3.3 yds. I > 28 Toss Sweep 73 3.2 yds. Singleback > 28 Stretch 73 3.3 yds. Gun > Fake 22 615 Post 73 3.3 yds. Singleback > 25 G Toss 73 3.2 yds.

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Dime > Quarters Spy 52 3.3 yds. Dime > Zone Blitz 50 3.6 yds. 3-4 > SS Blitz 50 3.6 yds. 3-4 > Pinch 49 3.8 yds. Nickel > CB3 Blitz 47 4.0 yds. 3-4 > Sting Pinch 3 46 4.2 yds. 3-4 > 2 Man Under 46 4.2 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Jake Long OT / Michigan Phillip Merling DE / Clemson Chad Henne QB / Michigan Kendall Langford DT / Hampton Shawn Murphy OT / Utah State Jalen Parmele RB / Toledo Donald Thomas OG / Connecticut 2 players chosen RB / DE

R6 R7

105

www.primagames.com

PHILADELPHIA EAGLES BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC East:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

8-8 3-5 5-3 2-4

86 86 88

2 3

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The Eagles’ rebuilding effort is still a work in progress. The team hasn’t made inroads when it comes to upgrading talent. Overall Player Grade: B+ Pla Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Fix the depth at safety immediately; follow up with some new blood at DE opposite Trent Cole. On offense, look for another WR and an OT to back-up some of your older veterans at that spot. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Signed Asante Samuel (CB). Resigned L.J. Smith (TE).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Brian Dawkins (FS), William Thomas (LT), Jon Runyan (RT)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$40.1

HEAD COACH

Carolina Panthers At New England Patriots New York Jets

REGULAR SEASON 1

St. Louis Rams

At Dallas Cowboys

Pittsburgh Steelers

At Chicago Bears

Washington Redskins

At San Francisco 49ers

Bye Week

Atlanta Falcons

At Seattle Seahawks

New York Giants

At Cincinnati Bengals

At Baltimore Ravens

Arizona Cardinals

At New York Giants

Cleveland Browns

MILLION

At Pittsburgh Steelers

At Washington Redskins Dallas Cowboys

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

99 77 ANDY REID Current Approval: 83 Personality: Stoic Difficulty: Medium Overall Skill: 77 Special Skills: 5 of 44

106

19 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

5 14

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Some people use the less-than-flattering term “Mr. Irrelevant” to describe the final person chosen each year in the NFL Draft.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

A A- B- B B+ B- B B A B- C+ B- C- A A- C+ B

TOP 2008 PICKS R2

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Reid All Passing

Defense: Jim Johnson Blitz

Playbook Strength: Strong (154 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (73 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. I Form > Fake 93 Boot Rt X Deep C 97 6.4 yds. I Form > 95 Counter 92 3.5 yds. Singlebk. > 2 Jet Scat H Opt. (var.) 91 5.2 yds. Singleback > 2 Jet Scat H Option 90 6.5 yds. Singleback > 2 Jet Scat H Choice 90 6.1 yds. I Form > P 94 Zone F Flat 89 4.3 yds. Split > 320 Y Drag Z Follow 88 5.9 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Dime > Cover 3 74 0.7 yds. 4-3 > Double Z 55 3.1 yds. 4-3 > LOLB Blitz 52 3.5 yds. 4-3 > Storm Blitz 52 3.4 yds. 4-3 > OLB Fire Man 49 3.9 yds. 4-3 > Safety Blitz 49 3.8 yds. 4-3 > 3 Deep Eagle Swoop 49 3.8 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Trevor Laws DT / Notre Dame DeSean Jackson WR / California Bryan Smith OLB / McNeese State Mike McGlynn OT / Pittsburgh Quintin Demps FS / Texas-El Paso Jack Ikegwuonu CB / Wisconsin Mike Gibson OT / California 3 players chosen ILB / OLB / OT

R6 R7

107

www.primagames.com

ATLANTA FALCONS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC South:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

4-12 3-5 1-7 1-5

69 67 70

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

DEFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW

Indianapolis Colts

Tennessee Titans

At Baltimore Ravens

REGULAR SEASON

Season Outlook: The Falcons are desperate for talent and a beefed-up playbook. This will be a multiseason project to turn this team around. Overall Player Grade: CRedoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Whether through free agency (i.e. Michael Turner of the Chargers) or the draft, you need another halfback to develop the run game. Even more important is the need to find and develop a franchise-reviving QB and an OT to boost the offensive line. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Demorrio Williams (ROLB) to the Chiefs. Did not re-sign Morten Andersen. Signed Jason Elam (K), Michael Turner (HB). Re-signed Michael Boley (LOLB). 2009 Notable Free Agents: None

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

1 2

MILLION

Detroit Lions At Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Kansas City Chiefs

At Carolina Panthers

At Green Bay Packers

Chicago Bears

Bye Week

At Philadelphia Eagles

At Oakland Raiders

New Orleans Saints

Denver Broncos

Carolina Panthers

At S. Diego Chargers

At N. Orleans Saints

$66.5

HEAD COACH

At Jacksonville Jaguars

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

At Minn. Vikings

St. Louis Rams

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

95 MIKE SMITH Current Approval: 75 Personality: Titan Difficulty: Very Hard Overall Skill: 36 Special Skills: 4 of 44

108

63 36 Head Coach

22 26 OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

56 32 QB

38 16 9

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

1 T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The Vince Lombardi Trophy is hand-crafted each year by Tiffany & Co. out of sterling silver.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

F B A- B C- F B- B+ A+ B+ B- B+ F C- B B+ B

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Mularkey Power Run

Defense: Smith Physical D

Playbook Strength: Very Weak (114 plays)

Playbook Strength: Weak (62 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Strong > 40 Power O 74 3.0 yds. Strong > Fake Power 728 F Slide 70 2.8 yds. I > 40 Gut 69 3.4 yds. Singleback > 30 Gut 68 3.4 yds. Singleback > 40 Gut 68 3.4 yds. I > 80 G Toss 67 3.3 yds. Strong > Read Rt 718 H Angle 66 2.3 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. 4-3 > Cover 1 49 3.8 yds. 4-3 > Man QB Spy 49 3.8 yds. Nickel > 2 Man Under 49 3.8 yds. 4-3 > 2 Man Under 47 4.0 yds. 4-3 > Trio Wham Lurk 46 4.2 yds. Dime > Double Slot 45 4.3 yds. 4-3 > Thunder Smoke 45 4.3 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Matt Ryan QB / Boston College Sam Baker OT / Southern Cal Curtis Lofton LB / Oklahoma Chevis Jackson CB / LSU Harry Douglas WR / Louisville Thomas DeCoud FS / California Robert James OLB / Arizona State 4 players chosen OLB / RB / CB / TE

R5 R6 R7

109

www.primagames.com

SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC West:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

5-11 3-5 2-6 3-3

70 66 72

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

At Oakland Raiders

Green Bay Packers

At Chicago Bears

San Diego Chargers

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: Besides Patrick Willis, Frank Gore and Nate Clements, there isn’t much talent on this roster. Build around those players to engineer a turnaround. Overall Player Grade: C

Arizona Cardinals

At Seattle Seahawks

Detroit Lions

Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: With Mike Martz now calling the shots on offense, expect the 49ers to open up the passing game. You’ll need speedy receivers to run Martz’s plays and more talent on the offensive line to keep the QB protected. On defense, look to add youth at CB. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Signed Isaac Bruce (WR), Justin Smith (RE). Re-signed Billy Bajema (TE).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Isaac Bruce (WR)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$41.5

At New Orleans Saints

New England Patriots

Philadelphia Eagles

At New York Giants

Seattle Seahawks

Bye Week

At Arizona Cardinals

St. Louis Rams

At Dallas Cowboys

At Buffalo Bills

New York Jets

At Miami Dolphins

At St. Louis Rams

Washington Redskins

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

83 MIKE NOLAN Current Approval: 41 Personality: Promoter Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 34 Special Skills: 3 of 44

110

34 Head Coach

20 OFF

35 40

DEF ST Coordinators

52 25

39 18

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Super Bowl I is the only Super Bowl to not sell out all of its stadium seats.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B- A- C+ B+ B+ B C- C- B+ B- F B- B B+ C+ B A-

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Martz Air Attack

Defense: Nolan 3-4

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (105 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Weak (64 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singleback > Scat Rt8 512 Hook 93 6.8 yds. Singleback > Scat Rt Hook 93 7.0 yds. Singleback > Liz Slot Post 91 7.7 yds. Singleback > Fake Gut 864 Smash 91 6.0 yds. Gun > Quick Read 239 Out 91 6.0 yds. Gun > Liz Left Slot Cross 91 7.3 yds. Singleback > 99 Halfback Screen Rt. 90 6.3 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. 3-4 > Pinch 55 3.0 yds. 3-4 > Over Blitz 53 3.3 yds. 5 DBs > 2 Man Under 52 3.5 yds. 3-4 > CB Dogs Blitz 51 3.6 yds. 3-4 > Double Man 50 3.6 yds. 3-4 > Double Man 50 3.7 yds. 5 DBs > LB Ram Dogs 50 3.7 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Kentwan Balmer DE / North Carolina Chilo Rachal OG / Southern Cal Reggie Smith DB / Oklahoma Cody Wallace OL / Texas A&M Josh Morgan WR / Virginia Tech Larry Grant OLB / Ohio State

111

www.primagames.com

NEW YORK GIANTS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC East:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

10-6 3-5 7-1 3-3

93 90 95

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

DEFENSE RATING

Season Outlook: The Giants came alive in the playoffs and stunned the Patriots to win the Super Bowl. Despite that feat, doubts remain about QB Eli Manning and some of the coaching staff. Overall Player Grade: A Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: OLB is probably the biggest hole you need to fill, followed closely by S. The WR corps is still talented but getting older, so fresh legs will eventually be needed at wideout. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Kawika Mitchell (ROLB) to the Bills. Did not re-sign Zach Piller (LG). Re-signed Lawrence Tynes (K). 2009 Notable Free Agents: Michael Strahan (LE—likely to retire in the game, actually retired in 2008), Shaun O’Hara (C)

At New York Jets

New England Patriots

Washington Redskins

At St. Louis Rams

Cincinnati Bengals

Bye Week

Seattle Seahawks

At Cleveland Browns

San Francisco 49ers

At Pittsburgh Steelers Dallas Cowboys At Philadelphia Eagles

Baltimore Ravens

At Arizona Cardinals

At Washington Redskins

Philadelphia Eagles

At Dallas Cowboys

Carolina Panthers

MILLION

At Minneapolis Vikings

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

93 67

TOM COUGHLIN

112

Cleveland Browns

$30.7

Current Approval: 95 Personality: Commander Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 83 Special Skills: 7 of 44

At Detroit Lions

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

HEAD COACH

66 33 38

Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

55 28

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

36 14 LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Each NFL game ball is known as “The Duke,” in honor of New York Giants football legend Wellington “Duke” Mara.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B B C+ B+ A B B B+ B A- B B- B+ B D- B- B-

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Gilbride Old School

Defense: Spagnuolo Pressure

Playbook Strength: Average (108 plays)

Playbook Strength: Strong (66 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singlebk. > Ride 138 Curl T Deep Cro 100 14.0 yds. I > 40 H Draw 93 4.6 yds. I > H Out 72 Flood Z Cross 77 3.5 yds. Gun > 62 Comeback Y In 76 3.4 yds. Singleback > 76 Firm Diagonal Go 75 3.3 yds. Gun > 72 X Slant Hook 74 3.2 yds. Gun > 72 X Drag Y Post 74 4.0 yds.

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Pressure 4-3 > Safety Blitz 49 3.8 yds. Pressure 4-3 > Mike Fire 49 3.8 yds. Pressure 4-3 > SS Blitz 49 3.9 yds. Pressure 4-3 > Under Ram Buck 49 3.9 yds. Pressure 4-3 > Sam Blitz 49 3.9 yds. Pressure 4-3 > Edge Sting 48 4.0 yds. Pressure 4-3 > Free Fire 47 5.2 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Kenny Phillips FS / Miami Terrell Thomas CB / Southern Cal Mario Manningham WR / Michigan Bryan Kehl OLB / BYU Jonathan Goff LB / Vanderbilt André Woodson QB / Kentucky Robert Henderson DE / Southern Miss

113

www.primagames.com

JACKSONVILLE JAGUARS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC South:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

11-5 6-2 5-3 2-4

92 89 95

DEFENSE RATING

Atlanta Falcons

Miami Dolphins

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The Jaguars are a solid and physical team with an imposing defense and reliable running game. Overall Player Grade: A Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: The Jaguars really need to find a dominant pass rusher at defensive tackle as well as defensive end. The team is also thin at safety. On offense, the Jaguars should look for a younger center. In real life, some argue that the team traded too much to the Ravens to get their first-round slot. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Signed Drayton Florence (CB), Pierson Prioleau (FS), Jimmy Kennedy (DT), Jerry Porter (WR). Re-signed Maurice Williams (RG). 2009 Notable Free Agents: Fred Taylor (HB), David Gerrard (QB)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$33.1

At Tampa Bay Buccaneers At Washington Redskins

REGULAR SEASON 1

At Tennessee Titans

Buffalo Bills

At Indianapolis Colts

Houston Texans

Pittsburgh Steelers

At Denver Broncos

Bye Week

Cleveland Browns

At Cincinnati Bengals

At Detroit Lions

Tennessee Titans

Minneapolis Vikings

At Houston Texans

At Chicago Bears

Green Bay Packers

Indianapolis Colts

At Baltimore Ravens

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

67 JACK DEL RIO Current Approval: 88 Personality: Super Star Difficulty: Easy Overall Skill: 67 Special Skills: 8 of 44

114

62 66

42 20

Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

65 35

1 LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

All numbers on an NFL football field must be six feet tall and four feet wide.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B B+ B B- B B- B+ B+ B+ C- B+ B B+ B B B- B-

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Koetter Ball Control

Defense: Jags Physical D

Playbook Strength: Average (106 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (71 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. I > 317 Naked Y Pivot 78 3.3 yds. Strong > 35 Counter 78 3.4 yds. Strong > 317 Naked Z Comeback 77 3.3 yds. I > 34 Counter 77 3.3 yds. Strong > 34 Counter 77 3.2 yds. Strong > 18 Stretch 76 3.2 yds. Singleback > 73 Under A Seam 75 4.0 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Dime > Cover 2 56 3.0 yds. Nickel > 2 Man Under S Back 53 3.3 yds. 4-3 > Cover 1 52 3.5 yds. 4-3 > Trio Wham Lurk 52 3.5 yds. 4-3 > Double Z 51 3.6 yds. 4-3 > Safety Blitz 49 3.9 yds. 4-3 > DBL TE Bracket 48 3.9 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Derrick Harvey DE / Florida Quentin Groves DE / Auburn Thomas Williams OLB / Southern Cal Trae Williams CB / South Florida Chauncey Washington RB / Southern Cal

115

www.primagames.com

NEW YORK JETS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC East:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

4-12 3-5 1-7 2-4

76 74 78

At Cleveland Browns

Washington Redskins

New York Giants

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW

REGULAR SEASON

Season Outlook: The Jets floundered last season. A respectable pass defense masked a horrid run defense. Consistency at QB remains a major question mark going into training camp. Overall Player Grade: BRedoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Production levels at RB need to improve, so new faces at that position should be a top priority. Follow that with a WR. On defense, the Jets need to find a prospect flexible enough to line up as an LB or DE. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Signed Alan Faneca (LG), Bubba Franks (TE), Tony Richardson (FB), Calvin Pace (LB).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Kerry Rhodes (SS)

At Miami Dolphins

New England Patriots

Arizona Cardinals

Bye Week

Cincinnati Bengals

At Oakland Raiders

Kansas City Chiefs

At Buffalo Bills

St. Louis Rams

MILLION

ERIC MANGINI Current Approval: 75 Personality: Stoic Difficulty: Very Hard Overall Skill: 44 Special Skills: 2 of 44

116

At New England Patriots

At Tennessee Titans

Denver Broncos

$27.0

At San Diego Chargers

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

HEAD COACH

At Philadelphia Eagles

At San Francisco 49ers

Buffalo Bills

At Seattle Seahawks

Miami Dolphins

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

44 Head Coach

62 35 OFF

17 4 23 DEF ST Coordinators

47 5

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

13 1 14 LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Although it’s never seen in today’s games, NFL rules still allow the use of a drop kick, which is when a kicker drops the ball and kicks it as (or immediately after) it touches the ground.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B B+ B+ A- B- B- B A- B+ B- A- C B B- D+ A- B+

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Shottenheimer Attack

Defense: Jets 3-4

Playbook Strength: Weak (80 plays)

Playbook Strength: Average (65 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singlebk. > Qk. Read Rt 202 Shoot 100 5.4 yds. Gun > Scram Rt 870 Hitch 100 4.9 yds. Gun > Flood Rt 562 Seam 100 5.5 yds. Gun > Liz Rt 628 Wheel 98 8.7 yds. Singleback > Flood Rt 424 Flat 97 4.7 yds. Singlebk. > Fake 50 Counter 86 Switc. 93 5.6 yds. I > Fake 20 869 F Flat 92 6.0 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. 3-4 > Stud Fire Spy 53 3.3 yds. Nickel > Double Z 52 3.4 yds. 3-4 > Pats Blitz 51 3.5 yds. 3-4 > OLB Swoop 49 3.8 yds. 3-4 > SS Swarm 49 3.8 yds. 3-4 > Line Pinch 48 3.9 yds. 3-4 > Edge 48 4.0 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Vernon Gholston DE / Ohio State Dustin Keller TE / Purdue Dwight Lowery CB / San Jose State Erik Ainge QB / Tennessee Marcus Henry WR / Kansas Nate Garner OT / Arkansas

117

www.primagames.com

DETROIT LIONS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC North:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

7-9 5-3 2-6 3-3

73 77 67

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

New York Giants

At Cincinnati Bengals

Cleveland Browns

At Buffalo Bills

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The team has weapons on offense, notably at WR, but their defense is the team’s Achilles heel. The playbook probably needs a tune-up as well. Overall Player Grade: C+ Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: The Lions need to rediscover the glory days with Barry Sanders and find a franchise running back. The right side of the offensive line also needs new talent to improve pass protection. On defense, the Lions need to upgrade at DT, LB and CB. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Signed Brian Kelly (CB), Travis Fisher (CB). Did not re-sign Ben Noll (RG).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Jason Hanson (K), Shaun McDonald (WR)

At Atlanta Falcons

Green Bay Packers

Bye Week

Chicago Bears

$53.3

At Minneapolis Vikings

At Houston Texans

Washington Redskins

At Chicago Bears

Jacksonville Jaguars

At Carolina Panthers

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

At San Francisco 49ers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tennessee Titans

Minneapolis Vikings

At Indianapolis Colts

New Orleans Saints

At Green Bay Packers

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

ROD MARINELLI Current Approval: 70 Personality: Traditionalist Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 32 Special Skills: 2 of 44

118

32 29 31 28 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

7 QB

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

13 20 5 14 18 LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The 1950 NFL draft was filled with players with colorful nicknames such as “Muscles,” “Snakey,” “Dopey” and “Choo-Choo.”

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B F F A- B- F C+ B A B- B B F B B- B B+

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Lions Ball Control

Defense: Lions Cover 2

Playbook Strength: Weak (100 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Weak (53 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Shotgun > 414 H Circle 100 3.4 yds. I > Fake Dive 768 F Out 96 6.7 yds. Strong > Read Rt 97 X Drag 95 9.3 yds. Strong > Scram Rt 384 F Circle 94 5.9 yds. Singleback > Zip 692 Seam 94 4.2 yds. I > Fake Dive 683 H Check 93 5.5 yds. Singleback > Flood Rt 787 Seam 89 8.2 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Dime > Bucs 2 Eye 55 2.8 yds. 4-3 > Cover 2 QB Spy 54 3.1 yds. 4-3 > Cover 2 Storm 51 3.5 yds. 4-3 > Bucs 2 50 3.2 yds. 4-3 > Bucs 2 Line Pinch 49 3.8 yds. 4-3 > Under 2 48 3.9 yds. Nickel > Kiffin 2 48 4.0 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Gosder Cherilus OT / Boston College Jordon Dizon OLB / Colorado Kevin Smith RB / Central Florida Andre Fluellen DT / Florida State Cliff Avril OLB / Purdue Kenneth Moore WR / Wake Forest Jerome Felton FB / Furman 2 players chosen DE / S

119

www.primagames.com

GREEN BAY PACKERS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC North:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

13-3 7-1 6-2 4-2

95 96 93

1 2

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW

Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Quarterback depth needs to be fixed due to Favre’s departure, and on offense, positions of need include a tight end and a young tackle. On defense, the team’s CBs are accomplished veterans but are getting older. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Re-signed Atari Bigby (S). 2009 Notable Free Agents: Ryan Grant (HB)

At Denver Broncos

Tennessee Titans

Minneapolis Vikings

At Detroit Lions

Dallas Cowboys

Atlanta Falcons

At Seattle Seahawks

Indianapolis Colts

Bye Week

At Tennessee Titans

11 12

At Minneapolis Vikings Chicago Bears At New Orleans Saints

Carolina Panthers

Houston Texans

MILLION

At Tampa Bay Buccaneers

$37.1

At Jacksonville Jaguars

At Chicago Bears

Detroit Lions

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

70 MIKE MCCARTHY

120

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

Current Approval: 93 Personality: Captain Difficulty: Medium Overall Skill: 70 Special Skills: 9 of 44

At San Francisco 49ers

REGULAR SEASON

Season Outlook: Obviously, Brett Favre’s retirement raises questions at not just quarterback, but also how the team’s offensive scheme may change. Regardless, the run game needs consistency to help open up the passing game. Overall Player Grade: A+

DEFENSE RATING

HEAD COACH

Cincinnati Bengals

46 46 41 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

61 38 31 30

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

45 40

35 12

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The practice of having teams draft in reverse order of their win-loss records first took full effect starting in 1959.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

C- C+ F B+ D+ B- C B B A- B- B B A- B- C- B+

TOP 2008 PICKS R2

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: McCarthy West Coast

Defense: Packers 4 Across

Playbook Strength: Strong (153 plays)

Playbook Strength: Strong (63 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singleback > Flea Flicker 100 8.0 yds. I Form > Fake 93 Boot Rt X Deep C 100 6.8 yds. I Form > Fake 98 Boot Left X Come 100 6.3 yds. Gun > P 45 Base Z Drag 100 4.7 yds. Singlebk. > P 98 Stretch X Z Curl 100 3.9 yds. Full House > Max Protect 100 3.5 yds. Full House > Flares 100 3.5 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Nickel > Cover 1 69 1.3 yds. 4-3 > Man Cover 56 2.9 yds. Nickel > 2 Man Under 50 3.0 yds. Dime > Cover 1 48 3.9 yds. 4-3 > 4 Deep Quarters 48 3.9 yds. 4-3 > Cover 1 48 3.9 yds. Dime > Quarters Man 48 4.0 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Jordy Nelson WR / Kansas State Brian Brohm QB / Louisville Patrick Lee DB / Auburn Jermichael Finley TE / Texas Jeremy Thompson DE / Wake Forest Josh Sitton OT / Central Florida Breno Giacomini OT / Louisville 2 players chosen QB / WR

121

www.primagames.com

CAROLINA PANTHERS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC South:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

7-9 2-6 5-3 3-3

80 75 84

1 2

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: Focus on fixing the playbook and revamping a defensive line that ranked last in the NFC in sacks. Some believe the Panthers will try to establish a power run game. Overall Player Grade: B Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Bulk up the offensive line with a solid tackle. If you buy the power-run philosophy, complement that OT with an RB. On defense, the team is getting older at DE and MLB.

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: John Kasay (K), Julius Peppers (LE)

HEAD COACH

At S. Diego Chargers Chicago Bears

At Minn. Vikings

Atlanta Falcons

Kansas City Chiefs

Current Approval: 52 Personality: Captain Difficulty: Very Hard Overall Skill: 44 Special Skills: 5 of 44

122

At Tampa Bay Buccaneers

New Orleans Saints

Arizona Cardinals

Bye Week

At Oakland Raiders

Detroit Lions

At Atlanta Falcons

At Green Bay Packers Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Denver Broncos

At New York Giants

At N. Orleans Saints

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

84 JOHN FOX

At Pittsburgh Steelers

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

MILLION

Washington Redskins

$49.6

At Philadelphia Eagles

REGULAR SEASON

2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Franchised Jordan Gross (RT). Signed Toniu Fonoti (LG), D.J. Hackett (WR), Muhsin Muhammad (WR), Landon Johnson (LB).

Indianapolis Colts

44 25

Head Coach

OFF

25 20 DEF ST Coordinators

74 42

51 1 19

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

During the 1960s, a common practice by teams was to keep prized prospects hidden in hotel rooms until they were drafted to ensure that they wouldn’t be drafted by someone else.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B D+ B- A C+ F C B- A A- B- B D- B C C+ B+

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Davidson Balanced

Defense: Panthers Pass Rush

Playbook Strength: Weak (133 plays)

Playbook Strength: Average (77 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. I > Slant 24 Zone 78 2.9 yds. Gun > 10 QB Draw 78 2.3 yds. Near > Jab 37 Counter 72 3.3 yds. I > 54 Drive Y Post 72 3.1 yds. Gun > 74 Flood 72 3.1 yds. Zero > 45 Exxon Z Post 71 3.1 yds. Zero > 92 Drag Slant 71 3.1 yds.

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Dime > Cover 3 69 0.4 yds. Nickel > Strong Zone 61 2.3 yds. Nickel > Cover 2 58 5.9 yds. 4-3 > Free Fire 55 3.1 yds. 4-3 > Double X 53 3.3 yds. 4-3 > Buzz Weak 52 3.5 yds. 4-3 > Cover 1 52 3.5 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Jonathan Stewart RB / Oregon Jeff Otah OT / Pittsburgh Charles Godfrey CB / Iowa Dan Connor OLB / Penn State Gary Barnidge TE / Louisville Nick Hayden DT / Wisconsin Hilee Taylor OLB / North Carolina 2 players chosen OL / OG

123

www.primagames.com

NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC East:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

16-0 8-0 8-0 6-0

99 99 97

1 2

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

DEFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW

Baltimore Ravens At Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Philadelphia Eagles

At New York Giants

REGULAR SEASON

Season Outlook: This team has elite coaching, top-notch talent, and an impressive playbook—just avoid injuries. Overall Player Grade: A+ Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: The word “need” is a relative thing with the Patriots, but you should consider free agency, the draft (or both) to find new CBs and a safety for the secondary. The linebacker corps is getting older, so that position will eventually need to be addressed as well. Finally, boost depth along the offensive line. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Eugene Wilson (FS) to the Buccaneers, Donte Stallworth (WR) to the Browns, Asante Samuel (CB) to the Eagles. Re-signed Randy Moss (WR). 2009 Notable Free Agents: Mike Vrabel (LOLB)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$38.6

Kansas City Chiefs

At New York Jets

Miami Dolphins

Bye Week

At San Francisco 49ers At San Diego Chargers

Denver Broncos

St. Louis Rams

At Indianapolis Colts

Buffalo Bills

New York Jets

At Miami Dolphins

Pittsburgh Steelers

At Seattle Seahawks

At Oakland Raiders

Arizona Cardinals

At Buffalo Bills

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

99 95

124

52 53

HAL OPHAMER Current Approval: 96 Personality: Commander Difficulty: Very Easy Overall Skill: 99 Special Skills: 19 of 44

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

70 77

40 13

Head Coach

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

21 LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

NFL veterans have a Thanksgiving tradition: Tricking rookies into going to a local business to pick up free turkeys that aren’t really available.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

A+ B+ A A A- B B B B+ A B B D+ B C A F

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Patriots Air Strike

Defense: Patriots Pressure

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (123 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (87 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Gun > 74 Z Spot Y Flag 95 7.3 yds. Gun > 52 Curl Z Choice 92 7.0 yds. Gun > 74 Comeback Y Return 92 6.9 yds. Gun > 74 Buffalo F OKie 91 6.9 yds. Zero > 72 Mesh H Angle 90 6.3 yds. Zero > 92 Slant 88 5.5 yds. Zero > 72 Z Choice X Flag 87 5.8 yds.

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. 5 DBs > Cover 2 72 -1.0 yds. 5 DBs > Cover 3 Flat 55 3.1 yds. 5 DBs > Under 7 Slice 54 3.2 yds. 5 DBs > LB Contain 54 3.2 yds. 5 DBs > Slant FS Storm 53 3.3 yds. 5 DBs > 3 Overload Fire 50 3.5 yds. 3-4 > Flash Blitz 50 3.7 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Jerod Mayo OLB / Tennessee Terrence Wheatley CB / Colorado Shawn Crable OLB / Michigan Kevin O’Connell QB / San Diego State Jonathan Wilhite CB / Auburn Matt Slater WR / UCLA Bo Ruud OLB / Nebraska

125

www.primagames.com

OAKLAND RAIDERS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC North:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

7-9 4-4 3-5 2-4

72 71 74

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

DEFENSE RATING

San Francisco 49ers

At Tennessee Titans

Arizona Cardinals

At Seattle Seahawks

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: Despite some talent on defense, this team is still a work in progress. The offense and playbook need immediate help. For those starting in the pre-season, it’ll be interesting to see how Darren McFadden will impact the offensive scheme. Overall Player Grade: C Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: The team needs a speedy WR to stretch the field vertically and an RB to revitalize the run game—grab the best player available at either position with your first draft pick. If you do go with an RB, look next to build up your offensive line. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Did not re-sign Daunte Culpepper (QB). Franchised Nnamdi Asomugha (CB). Signed Gibril Wilson (S). 2009 Notable Free Agents: Shane Lechler (P), Mark Wilson (RT)

Denver Broncos

At Kansas City Chiefs

At Buffalo Bills

San Diego Chargers

Bye Week

New York Jets

At Baltimore Ravens

Atlanta Falcons

Carolina Panthers

At Miami Dolphins

At Denver Broncos

Kansas City Chiefs

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$32.9

At New Orleans Saints

At San Diego Chargers

New England Patriots

Houston Texans

At Tampa Bay Buccaneers

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

86 61

LANE KIFFIN Current Approval: 43 Personality: Analyst Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 26 Special Skills: 2 of 44

126

26 Head Coach

67 35

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

63 56 35

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

28 T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

When the Oakland Raiders drafted defensive tackle Richard Sligh in 1967, he became the tallest person ever (at seven feet) to play in the NFL.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B F B+ B+ B- B- B- B B+ B B B- B+ B+ B B A+

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Kiffin Pass Attack

Defense: Raiders Rover

Playbook Strength: Very Weak (134 plays)

Playbook Strength: Average (84 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singleback > Boot Rt 819 U Cross 100 6.4 yds. Singleback > Fake 20 884 Corner 96 6.9 yds. I > Fake 20 869 F Flat 95 5.6 yds. Weak > Fake Lead 568 H Check 90 4.8 yds. Singleback > 80 Power Toss 88 3.5 yds. Singleback > 50 Counter 87 4.2 yds. Singleback > Sprint Rt 979 Pivot 87 8.3 yds.

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. 4-3 > Trio Wham Lurk 53 3.4 yds. 4-3 > LOLB Blitz 51 3.6 yds. 4-3 > Under Ram Buck 51 3.6 yds. 4-3 > Hog Buck 3 50 3.7 yds. 4-3 > Slant 1 OLB Fire 49 3.8 yds. Raiders Rover > Double X 49 3.9 yds. Raiders Rover > FS Blitz 48 4.0 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Darren McFadden RB / Arkansas Tyvon Branch CB / Connecticut Arman Shields WR / Richmond Trevor Scott DE / Buffalo Chaz Schilens WR / San Diego State

127

www.primagames.com

ST. LOUIS RAMS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC West:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

3-13 1-7 2-6 1-5

74 84 70

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

DEFENSE RATING

Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: You have lots of options to look at here. If you think the offensive line can stay healthy, look to focus your search on a DE or DT first, then a back-up LB. If not, then look for a starter-ready replacement at offensive tackle or guard. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Re-signed Adam Goldberg (RT) and Brett Romberg (C). Signed Josh Brown (K), Jacob Bell, (LG), Trent Green (QB). Unknown status for O.J. Atogwe (FS). 2009 Notable Free Agents: Steven Jackson (HB)

Baltimore Ravens

At Kansas City Chiefs

At Philadelphia Eagles

New York Giants

At Seattle Seahawks

Buffalo Bills

Bye Week

7 8

At Washington Redskins Dallas Cowboys At New England Patriots

Arizona Cardinals

At New York Jets

MILLION

At San Francisco 49ers

Chicago Bears

Miami Dolphins

At Arizona Cardinals

Seattle Seahawks

San Francisco 49ers

At Atlanta Falcons

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

83 SCOTT LINEHAN

128

San Diego Chargers

Season Outlook: Injuries really hammered the Rams last season. Keep your players healthy and spice up the playbook. The team is starting to show its age at some positions, such as WR. Overall Player Grade: C+

$42.5

Current Approval: 52 Personality: Ally Difficulty: Medium Overall Skill: 28 Special Skills: 2 of 44

At Tennessee Titans

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

HEAD COACH

33 40 38 40

28 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

50 30

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The Rams were the first NFL team to put a logo design on their helmets. The original golden horn design is still in use today.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

A- A B- A- B B+ C C- A F B C+ B B- B- B B-

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Saunders Big Book

Defense: Haslett Physical D

Playbook Strength: Average (120 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Weak (80 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Gun > 524 F Cross 100 6.3 yds. Gun > Liz Rt 926 Out 100 4.3 yds. Gun > 40 Draw 100 4.2 yds. Singleback > 100 Rd Rt 212 Shoot 100 4.1 yds. Singleback > Scat Rt8 512 Hook 98 5.3 yds. Singleback > Fake Dive 685 Press 96 6.1 yds. Gun > Quick Read 239 Out 94 8.5 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Nickel > Cover 2 72 0.9 yds. Dime > All Out Blitz 57 2.7 yds. 4-3 > LB Blitz 54 3.2 yds. 4-3 > OLB Fire Man 53 3.4 yds. 4-3 > Double Z 52 3.4 yds. 4-3 > Free Fire 52 3.4 yds. 4-3 > Slant 1 OLB Fire 52 3.4 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Chris Long DE / Virginia Donnie Avery WR / Houston John Greco OT / Toledo Justin King CB / Penn State Keenan Burton WR / Kentucky Roy Schuening OG / Oregon State Chris Chamberlain DB / Tulsa David Vobora OLB / Idaho

129

www.primagames.com

BALTIMORE RAVENS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC North:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

5-11 4-4 1-7 1-5

76 72 93

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW

At New England Patriots

Minneapolis Vikings

At St. Louis Rams

Atlanta Falcons

REGULAR SEASON

Season Outlook: In addition to finding a new quarterback, the team will have to revamp the offense and keep its players healthy. The Ravens defense is still potent—but getting older. Overall Player Grade: BRedoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: The Ravens needs (in order of priority): quarterback, offensive linemen, defensive linemen, linebacker and cornerback. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Franchised Terrell Suggs (ROLB). Signed Brendon Ayanbadejo (LOLB) and Frank Walker (CB). Re-signed Nick Greisen (MLB).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Ray Lewis (MLB), Matt Stover (K), Bart Scott (MLB)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$27.2

Cincinnati Bengals

At Houston Texans

Cleveland Browns

At Pittsburgh Steelers

Tennessee Titans

At Indianapolis Colts

At Miami Dolphins

Oakland Raiders

At Cleveland Browns

Bye Week

At New York Giants

Philadelphia Eagles

At Cincinnati Bengals

Washington Redskins

Pittsburgh Steelers

At Dallas Cowboys

Jacksonville Jaguars

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

99 79 52

JOHN HARBAUGH Current Approval: 75 Personality: Optimist Difficulty: Medium Overall Skill: 27 Special Skills: 1 of 44

130

27 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

40 QB

51 24

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

9 14

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

An NFL team can have up to six captains, all of which must be active players in uniform.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

C- C C+ B A- B+ D- C+ A+ B B B A+ A- B+ C+ B-

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Cameron Power Run

Defense: Rex Ryan 4-6

Playbook Strength: Average (101 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (100 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Far > 30 Fullback Dive 89 2.7 yds. Singleback > Fake Zone 55 Y Delay 76 3.1 yds. I Form > 40 Gut 72 3.3 yds. Singleback > Scat Rt 372 H Flat 72 3.2 yds. Singleback > 20 Dive 72 3.2 yds. Singleback > 60 Counter 72 3.1 yds. Singleback > 80 Wide Zone 71 3.0 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. 3-4 > Blitz Storm 8 52 3.3 yds. Nickel > 3 Overload Fire 50 3.7 yds. 3-4 > Wide Blitz 50 3.7 yds. 3-4 > Storm Brave 1 49 3.8 yds. 3-4 > Inside Blitz 49 3.8 yds. 3-4 > ILB Blitz 48 3.9 yds. 4-3 > SS Snake 3 Stay 48 3.9 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Joe Flacco QB / Delaware Ray Rice RB / Rutgers Tavares Gooden OLB / Miami Tom Zbikowski FS / Notre Dame Oniel Cousins OG / Texas-El Paso Marcus Smith WR / New Mexico David Hale OT / Weber State 3 players chosen FS / WR / RB

R6 R7

131

www.primagames.com

WASHINGTON REDSKINS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC East:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

9-7 5-3 4-4 3-3

88 87 90

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The Redskins aren’t a bad team, but they’re still a few smart draft picks or trades away from becoming a playoff contender. The playbook could use some help as well. This is the team’s first year with head coach Jim Zorn. Overall Player Grade: ARedoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: A taller wide receiver would add some spark to the Redskins’ passing game. On defense, a pass-rushing DE is probably the biggest priority, followed by LB and safety. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Re-signed Ryan Boschetti (DT), Rock Cartwright (HB), Todd Collins (QB), Derrick Frost (P).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: None

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$16.8

JIM ZORN

132

Buffalo Bills

At New York Jets

At Carolina Panthers

Jacksonville Jaguars

REGULAR SEASON 1

At New York Giants

New Orleans Saints

Arizona Cardinals

At Dallas Cowboys

At Philadelphia Eagles

St. Louis Rams

Cleveland Browns

At Detroit Lions

Pittsburgh Steelers

Bye Week

Dallas Cowboys

At Seattle Seahawks

New York Giants

At Baltimore Ravens

At Cincinnati Bengals

Philadelphia Eagles At San Francisco 49ers

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

87 Current Approval: 80 Personality: Anchor Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 25 Special Skills: 1 of 44

Indianapolis Colts

MILLION

HEAD COACH

25 29 Head Coach

OFF

43 47 23 DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

41 21 9 LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

In 1946, the Washington Redskins tried to draft Cal Rossi in the first round, only to find out he was ineligible. To make matters worse, when the Redskins tried again in 1947, they learned too late that Rossi didn’t want to play in the NFL.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B A- B C+ C+ A C+ B+ B- B B B B+ B D B- B-

TOP 2008 PICKS R2

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Zorn West Coast

Defense: Redskins 4-3

Playbook Strength: Weak (156 plays)

Playbook Strength: Weak (70 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Gun > 222 F Slant 82 6.1 yds. Gun > H Screen Rt 989 82 4.8 yds. Gun > 382 Slot Seam 80 5.6 yds. Gun > 560 F Stick N Go 74 5.2 yds. Gun > 295 H Circle 73 5.4 yds. Gun > Scram 999 H Flare 71 5.7 yds. Gun > Screen H Right 979 60 3.2 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Dime > Cover 2 80 0.0 yds. 4-3 > 2 Man Under 54 3.2 yds. 4-3 > Storm Blitz 54 3.2 yds. 4-3 > Safety Blitz 49 3.8 yds. 4-3 > Man 3 Shoot Blitz 47 4.1 yds. Nickel > SS Blitz 46 4.2 yds. 4-3 > Cover 1 46 4.2 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Devin Thomas WR / Michigan State Fred Davis TE / Southern Cal Malcolm Kelly WR / Oklahoma Chad Rinehart OT / Northern Iowa Justin Tryon CB / Arizona State Durant Brooks P / Georgia Tech Kareem Moore DB / Nicholls State 3 players chosen QB / DE / FS

R6 R7

133

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NEW ORLEANS SAINTS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC South:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

7-9 3-5 4-4 3-3

82 93 70

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

At Arizona Cardinals

Houston Texans

At Cincinnati Bengals

Miami Dolphins

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW

Season Outlook: The defense needs attention, especially at linebacker and the secondary, to fix a less-than-potent pass rush. On the plus side, the passing game is sharp. Overall Player Grade: B Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Use free agency and/or the draft to find a talented CB, followed by a LB and DE. On offense, it wouldn’t hurt to get a younger TE to build depth at that position. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Jeff Faine (C) to the Buccaneers. Re-signed Devery Henderson (WR), David Patten (WR), Eric Johnson (TE), Aaron Stecker (HB). Signed Mark Brunell (QB), Randall Gay (CB).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Jahri Evans (RG), Marques Colston (WR), Will Smith (RE)

$48.5

At Washington Redskins

At Denver Broncos

San Francisco 49ers

Minneapolis Vikings

Oakland Raiders

At Carolina Panthers

San Diego Chargers

Bye Week

At Atlanta Falcons

At Kansas City Chiefs

Green Bay Packers

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

At Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Atlanta Falcons

At Chicago Bears

At Detroit Lions

Carolina Panthers

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

77 SEAN PAYTON Current Approval: 87 Personality: Guru Difficulty: Medium Overall Skill: 48 Special Skills: 7 of 44

134

48 Head Coach

32 OFF

22 6 DEF ST Coordinators

65 19

37 3

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

65 22 7 14

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

According to NFL rules, the score of any forfeited game is 2-0 (with the 2 points going to the team that did not forfeit).

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

A A- B+ B B B B- C B- A- C+ B C- B B B- B

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Payton Spread Attack

Defense: Saints Basic D

Playbook Strength: Strong (120 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Weak (69 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singleback > Back Choice 93 7.1 yds. Singleback > Reggie Option 91 6.9 yds. Singleback > Back Out 91 6.8 yds. Gun > P45 Base Z Drag 84 6.5 yds. Gun > 82 All Go 84 7.1 yds. Gun > 20 Double Smash 79 4.9 yds. Singleback > 2 Jet H Wheel 79 3.8 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Dime > Double Slot 56 3.0 yds. 4-3 > Man QB Spy 54 3.2 yds. 4-3 > Free Fire 53 3.4 yds. 4-3 > Man QB Spy (variant) 51 3.5 yds. 4-3 > Trio Wham Lurk 50 3.7 yds. 4-3 > DE Contain 50 3.7 yds. Nickel > Double X 48 3.9 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Sedrick Ellis DT / Southern Cal Tracy Porter CB / Indiana DeMario Pressley DT / North Carolina State Carl Nicks OT / Nebraska Taylor Mehlhaff K / Wisconsin Adrian Arrington WR / Michigan

135

www.primagames.com

SEATTLE SEAHAWKS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC West:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

10-6 7-1 3-5 5-1

90 91 87

2 3

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The Seahawks won the NFC West in 2007 and is the favorite in a still-weak division in ’08. This team needs to find a long-term prospect at RB and upgrade the coaching staff. Overall Player Grade: A Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: If you plan to not re-sign Shaun Alexander (as the Seahawks did in real life), you’ll need to find a replacement HB eventually. Other positions of need include G, DT and WR. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Josh Brown (K) to Rams, D.J. Hackett to the Panthers. Did not re-sign Shaun Alexander (HB). Signed Olindo Mare (K). Re-signed Marcus Trufant (CB).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Bobby Engram (WR)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$39.4

MILLION

HEAD COACH

99 60

MIKE HOLMGREN

136

Chicago Bears At San Diego Chargers Oakland Raiders

REGULAR SEASON 1

At Buffalo Bills

San Francisco 49ers

St. Louis Rams

Bye Week

At New York Giants

Green Bay Packers

At Tampa Bay Buccaneers At San Francisco 49ers

Philadelphia Eagles

At Miami Dolphins

Arizona Cardinals

Washington Redskins

At Dallas Cowboys

New England Patriots

At St. Louis Rams

New York Jets

At Arizona Cardinals

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

Current Approval: 91 Personality: Commander Difficulty: Medium Overall Skill: 92 Special Skills: 11 of 44

At Minneapolis Vikings

37 1

Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

14 T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

NFL referees line up in the offensive backfield based shaded left or right depending on the quarterback’s throwing arm.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B B+ B- B+ F A- B+ B+ B- B- B A- A B B B+ A-

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Holmgren West Coast

Defense: Hawks Multiple Blitz

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (112 plays)

Playbook Strength: Average (70 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singleback > 76 X Z Double Got 74 3.7 yds. Singleback > 76 Dbl. Shake Y Post 73 3.3 yds. Singleback > 376 Thunder X Shake 73 3.2 yds. Singleback > 2 Jet Hitch Z Pump 73 3.2 yds. Singleback > 33 Trap 73 3.2 yds. Singleback > 200 Jet Smoke 73 3.2 yds. Singleback > 376 Semi 73 3.1 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Dime > Cover 2 56 3.0 yds. Nickel > FS Snake Blitz 3 52 3.4 yds. Dime > SS Zone Blitz 50 3.4 yds. 4-3 > FS Zone Blitz 50 3.7 yds. Dime > WK Overload 3 50 4.8 yds. 4-3 > Flat Thirds 49 3.8 yds. Dime > Strong Roll 3 48 2.9 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Lawrence Jackson DE / Southern Cal John Carlson TE / Notre Dame Red Bryant DT / Texas A&M Owen Schmitt FB / West Virginia Tyler Schmitt LS / San Diego State Justin Forsett RB / California Brandon Coutu K / Georgia

137

www.primagames.com

PITTSBURGH STEELERS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC North:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

10-6 7-1 3-5 5-1

90 88 97

DEFENSE RATING

Philadelphia Eagles

At Buffalo Bills

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW

Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: If you don’t plan to keep Alan Faneca around (he may be too expensive to keep), you’ll need to find a replacement guard. WR could use an infusion of youth as well. Defensively, look to build depth at CB and along the defensive line. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Alan Faneca (LG) to the Jets. Signed Justin Hartwig (C), Nate Washington (WR), Chris Kemoeatu (LG).

Houston Texans

At Cleveland Browns

4 5

138

At Jacksonville Jaguars Bye Week At Cincinnati Bengals

New York Giants

At Washington Redskins

Indianapolis Colts

San Diego Chargers

Cincinnati Bengals At New England Patriots

Dallas Cowboys

At Baltimore Ravens

At Tennessee Titans

Cleveland Browns

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

86 Current Approval: 87 Personality: Promoter Difficulty: Medium Overall Skill: 45 Special Skills: X of 44

Baltimore Ravens

MILLION

At Philadelphia Eagles

2009 Notable Free Agents: James Farrior (MLB), Marvel Smith (LT)

$29.8

MIKE TOMLIN

Carolina Panthers

REGULAR SEASON

Season Outlook: Overall, the Steelers have enough talent to return to the playoffs. The defense remains stout. The team needs to add some wrinkles to the playbook and avoid being too predictable when it comes to calling offensive plays. Overall Player Grade: A

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

HEAD COACH

At Minneapolis Vikings

45 21 Head Coach

OFF

36 DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

52 20 10 LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

In 1955, the Pittsburgh Steelers drafted Johnny Unitas in the ninth round, but cut him from the roster before the season started.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

A- C A- A- B+ B C+ B B- B+ A- B- A B B A B

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Steelers Smashmouth

Defense: LeBeau Zone Blitz R3

Playbook Strength: Strong (107 plays)

Playbook Strength: Very Strong (67 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Gun > H Out 74 Smash 100 5.4 yds. Gun > 62 Flood X Curl 97 4.4 yds. Gun > Y Return T Slant 96 4.4 yds. Gun > 54 Comeback Y Post 92 8.0 yds. Gun > 62 Z Drag 94 5.3 yds. Singleback > 72 H Choice Y Post 93 10.0 yds. Singleback > Ride 32 X Close 92 5.6 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. LeBeau 3-4 > SS Snake 3 Stay 54 3.2 yds. LeBeau 3-4 > 2 Deep MLB Spy 51 3.3 yds. LeBeau Nickel Blitz > FS Sam Crash 50 3.7 yds. LeBeau 3-4 > Flash Blitz 50 3.7 yds. LeBeau Nickel Blitz > SS Zone Blitz 49 3.8 yds. LeBeau 3-4 > Wide Blitz 49 3.9 yds. LeBeau Nickel Blitz > CB Fox Blitz 48 4.0 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Rashard Mendenhall RB / Illinois Limas Sweed WR / Texas Bruce Davis DE / UCLA Tony Hills OT / Texas Dennis Dixon QB / Oregon Mike Humpal LB / Iowa Ryan Mundy FS / West Virginia

139

www.primagames.com

HOUSTON TEXANS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC South:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

8-8 6-2 2-6 1-5

75 74 75

1 2

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The Texans have untapped potential. You’ll need to develop a running game, but Andre Johnson, Okoye and Mario Williams have talent. Overall Player Grade: C+ Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: The offensive line is in constant need of improvement to keep the QB protected—especially at tackle, which should be considered a high priority. The RB position needs depth. On defense, needs include LB, CB and S. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Re-signed Matt Turk (P). Signed Chris Brown (HB), Jacques Reeves (CB), Nick Ferguson (FS).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Jordan Black (LT), Chris White (C)

$42.3

MILLION

HEAD COACH

At New Orleans Saints At Dallas Cowboys Tampa Bay Buccaneers

REGULAR SEASON 1

At Pittsburgh Steelers

Baltimore Ravens

At Tennessee Titans

At Jacksonville Jaguars

Indianapolis Colts

Miami Dolphins

Detroit Lions

Bye Week

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

Denver Broncos

At Minneapolis Vikings

Cincinnati Bengals

At Indianapolis Colts

At Cleveland Browns

Jacksonville Jaguars

At Green Bay Packers

Tennessee Titans

At Oakland Raiders

Chicago Bears

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

99 67 GARY KUBIAK Current Approval: 80 Personality: Guru Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 44 Special Skills: 6 of 44

140

44 11 Head Coach

OFF

29 DEF ST Coordinators

66 1 QB

31 RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

25 31

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

46 14 T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Byron “Whizzer” White, drafted into the NFL in the first round in 1938, later became a U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

B B- C+ B+ B F C+ C B- B+ B- C+ D+ B- B C B

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Texans Power Run

Defense: Texans No Blitz

Playbook Strength: Weak (99 plays)

Playbook Strength: Average (75 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Singleback > 22 Scat H Y Cross 100 5.3 yds. I Form > Fake 98 Boot Left X Come 100 5.1 yds. Gun > A Left 322 Scat Y Shallow 100 4.5 yds. Weak > Mesh 100 4.1 yds. Gun > 22 Scat Semi Z Dig 100 3.9 yds. Gun > 15 Base 100 3.1 yds. Singleback > 2 Jet Z Return Y Flag 100 3.1 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Nickel > Cover 3 72 0.9 yds. 4-3 > Cover 3 51 3.5 yds. 4-3 > Base 50 3.7 yds. 4-3 > Man QB Spy 49 3.8 yds. 4-3 > Trio Wham Lurk 48 3.9 yds. Nickel > Weak Zone 48 3.9 yds. 4-3 > DE Contain 48 4.0 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Duane Brown OT / Virginia Tech Antwaun Molden CB / Eastern Kentucky Steve Slaton RB / West Virginia Xavier Adibi LB / Virginia Tech Frank Okam DT / Texas Dominique Barber FS / Minnesota Alex Brink QB / Washington St.

141

www.primagames.com

TENNESSEE TITANS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. AFC South:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

10-6 5-3 5-3 4-2

87 79 93

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

DEFENSE RATING

St. Louis Rams

Oakland Raiders

At Atlanta Falcons

At Green Bay Packers

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The Titans are a decent team, led by talented quarterback Vince Young and a swarming defense. The biggest need is for more talent on offense and in the secondary. The team also needs creativity with playcalling. Overall Player Grade: ARedoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: Young needs wideouts who are genuine touchdown threats. Other offensive needs include back-ups at RB and G. You may need to find a DE to counter any free agency loss. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Lost Antwan Odom (LE) to the Bengals. Franchised Albert Haynesworth (DT). Re-signed David Stewart (RT), Rob Bironas (K). Signed Alge Crumpler (TE), Jake Scott (RG). 2009 Notable Free Agents: Craig Hentrich (P)

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$63.4

Jacksonville Jaguars

At Cincinnati Bengals

Houston Texans

Minneapolis Vikings

At Baltimore Ravens

Bye Week

At Kansas City Chiefs

Indianapolis Colts

Green Bay Packers

At Chicago Bears

At Jacksonville Jaguars 11

New York Jets

At Detroit Lions

Cleveland Browns

At Houston Texans

Pittsburgh Steelers

At Indianapolis Colts

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

89 JEFF FISHER Current Approval: 92 Personality: Commander Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 89 Special Skills: 6 of 44

142

71 45 38 44 39

42 Head Coach

OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

28 LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

All NFL game balls are hand-crafted by Wilson and bear the commissioner’s signature. Wilson has supplied footballs to the NFL since 1941.

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

A- C+ B- C+ B B B- A A B- B A- C+ B- B- A- B+

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Titans Power Run

Defense: Titans Blitz Heavy

Playbook Strength: Weak (122 plays)

Playbook Strength: Average (67 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Shotgun Pass > Read Flare 100 5.4 yds. Quick Pass > 91 Fade Y Under 100 4.7 yds. Standard Pass > 64 Z Option 100 4.1 yds. Shotgun Pass > 72 T Drag 100 4.1 yds. Pitch > Strong Toss 100 3.5 yds. Inside Handoff > 20 Lead Dive 100 3.5 yds. PA Pass > PA TE Drag 100 3.3 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Cover 3 Zone > 3 Deep Under 91 -1.4 yds. Man Blitz > Jam Middle 85 -0.7 yds. Combo Blitz > Blitz A 80 -0.7 yds. Man Cover > Jam Cover 1 80 0.0 yds. Man Blitz > Gaps Fire 79 0.1 yds. Man Blitz > Flat Buzz 74 0.8 yds. Combo Blitz > Blitz C 73 0.8 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Chris Johnson RB / East Carolina Jason Jones DE / Eastern Michigan Craig Stevens TE / California William Hayes DL / Winston-Salem State Lavelle Hawkins WR / California Stanford Keglar OLB / Purdue Cary Williams CB / Washburn

143

www.primagames.com

MINNESOTA VIKINGS BY THE NUMBERS 2007 SEASON • Overall: • Home Record: • Away Record: • vs. NFC North:

2008 SCHEDULE PRESEASON

8-8 5-3 3-5 3-3

81 76 85

OVERALL RATING

OFFENSE RATING

Seattle Seahawks

At Baltimore Ravens

Pittsburgh Steelers

At Dallas Cowboys

REGULAR SEASON

TEAM OVERVIEW Season Outlook: The Vikings boast a solid defense and a breakout superstar in running back Adrian Peterson. Build your team and playbook around those two things, and you’ll be in good shape for the future. Player Grade: B Overall Play

At Green Bay Packers

Indianapolis Colts

Carolina Panthers

At Tennessee Titans

Redoing the 2008 Off-Season Advice: The biggest concern is at defensive end, followed by a possession-type receiver and a backup quarterback. Offensive line depth should also be improved. 2008 Notable Free Agency Moves: Signed Bernard Berrian (WR), Jared Allen (DE), Madieu Williams (FS), Benny Sapp (CB).

DEFENSE RATING

2009 Notable Free Agents: Matt Birk (C), Darren Sharper (SS)

Detroit Lions

At Chicago Bears

Bye Week

Houston Texans

Green Bay Packers

2008 SALARY CAP ROOM

$19.9

At New Orleans Saints

At Tampa Bay Buccaneers At Jacksonville Jaguars

Chicago Bears

At Detroit Lions

At Arizona Cardinals

Atlanta Falcons

New York Giants

MILLION

HEAD COACH

COACH AND STAFF OVERALL SKILL RATINGS

77 BRAD CHILDRESS Current Approval: 74 Personality: Analyst Difficulty: Hard Overall Skill: 34 Special Skills: 6 of 44

144

34 Head Coach

20 OFF

DEF ST Coordinators

32 QB

77 53

45 13

RB WR OL Offense Position Coaches

16 14

LB DL DB Defense Position Coaches

T Trainer

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Running back Ed Marinaro, drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the second round in 1972, later became a star actor in the hit TV show “Hill Street Blues.”

DEFAULT ROSTER BREAKDOWN OFFENSE

DEFENSE

OLB MLB

C+ B+ C B B- B B- C+ A- B A- B- B- B C A B-

TOP 2008 PICKS R1

DEFAULT OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE PLAYBOOKS Offense: Childress Balanced

Defense: Vikings Cover 2

Playbook Strength: Average (91 plays)

Playbook Strength: Weak (68 plays)

Productive Offensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. I Form > Flea Flicker 100 8.0 yds. Weak > 22 Z Shallow Cross 100 5.3 yds. Gun > P33 Bob X Dig 100 4.7 yds. Goal Line > 80 Toss 100 4.3 yds. Gun > 33 Bob 100 4.2 yds. Singleback > 76 H Shallow Cross 100 4.1 yds. G. Line > Fake 10 Y Corner F Ang. 100 3.7 yds.

Productive Defensive Plays to Master: Play Success Avg. Cover 3 Zone > 3 Deep Under 92 -1.6 yds. Combo Blitz > Blitz C 86 -0.8 yds. Combo Blitz > Gaps Fire 80 0.0 yds. Combo Blitz > 3 Deep Blitz 78 -0.3 yds. Combo Blitz > Blitz A 77 0.3 yds. Cover 2 Zone > 2 Deep Zone 68 1.5 yds. Combo Blitz > Blitz B 68 1.5 yds.

TEAM PROFILES

Tyrell Johnson FS/ Arkansas State John David Booty QB / Southern Cal Letroy Guion DT / Florida State John Sullivan C / Notre Dame Jaymar Johnson WR / Jackson State

145

www.primagames.com

TEAM POSITION PHILOSOPHIES A major element of any team’s philosophy is determining what kind of players that team wants. Teams can only win when their long-term goals and playbooks mesh well with the personnel on their rosters. For instance, at fullback some teams want a pure run blocker to enhance their run game, while pass-oriented teams want one who specializes as a receiver out of the backfield. Some teams will try to find a balanced fullback who can do both. If you plan to simulate any part of your season—especially free agency and the draft—it’s vitally important that you review and adjust your team position philosophies so that they fit in with your playbooks and gameplans. Even

Bears

if you don’t simulate, key information such as scouting data, player ratings and draft recommendations will be based on these philosophies. Depending on the level of control you’ve given up to others on your coaching staff, some of these philosophies could be locked; you won’t be able to change them. The following pages reveal the default 2008 team philosophies for each player position. You can expect CPU-controlled teams to evolve these default philosophies over time, but for the first few seasons, it’ll give you an idea of how each CPU team crafts their roster. It’ll also help you find a team that best matches your coaching style.

Bengals

To change your team’s player position philosophies, go to Team > Team Philosophy in your Clipboard. Press LB (or L1 on PS3) to toggle through the positions. For each position, you’ll also get to adjust your in-game and practice substitution preferences when it comes to managing health and fatigue. You can also set a minimum roster count (how many players you desire at each position).

Bills

Broncos

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Pure Passer Workhorse Blocking Speed Playmaker Size/Strength/Engulfer Size/Strength/Mauler Size/Strength/Mauler

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Power Blocking Balanced Blocking Size/Strength/Engulfer Balanced Run Block Specialist

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Workhorse Blocking Speed Balanced Run Block Specialist Size/Strength/Mauler Balanced

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Workhorse Receiving Tall/Redzone Threat Soft Hands/Routes Smart/Mobile Smart/Mobile Smart/Mobile

Undersized Speed Rusher DE DT Pass Rusher/One Gap Penetrator Coverage/Cover 2 OLB Prototype MLB CB Cover 2 FS Centerfielder SS Smart/Productive

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Run Stopper Balanced Prototype Power/Blitzer Man Coverage/Ballhawk Man Coverage Smart/Productive

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Balanced Balanced Run Stopper 3-4/Tackler Cover 2 Prototype Prototype

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Run Stopper Prototype Coverage/Cover 2 Coverage/Speed Prototype Run Support/Blitzer Run Support/Big Hitter

Balanced Pinpoint Accuracy

K P

Browns

K P

Balanced Big Foot/Distance

Buccaneers

Balanced Big Foot/Distance

K P

Cardinals

Big Foot/Distance Big Foot/Distance

K P

Chargers

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Field General Power Ball Carrier Tall/Redzone Threat Playmaker Run Block Specialist Run Block Specialist Size/Strength/Mauler

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Pure Passer Balanced Ball Carrier Tall/Redzone Threat Soft Hands/Routes Pass Block Specialist Size/Strength/Mauler Pass Block Specialist

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Pure Passer Balanced Balanced Tall/Redzone Threat Balanced Size/Strength/Engulfer Size/Strength/Mauler Smart/Mobile

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Pure Passer Balanced Blocking Tall/Redzone Threat Playmaker Size/Strength/Engulfer Size/Strength/Mauler Size/Strength/Mauler

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Versatile/3-4 Versatile/3-4 Pass Rusher/3-4 Blitzer 3-4/Tackler Strong/Press/Run Support Balanced Prototype

Prototype DE DT Pass Rusher/One Gap Penetrator Coverage/Cover 2 OLB Coverage/Speed MLB CB Cover 2 FS Centerfielder SS Run Support/Big Hitter

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Undersized Speed Rusher Balanced Prototype 3-4/Tackler Strong/Press/Run Support Prototype Prototype

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Run Stopper Run Stopper Pass Rusher/3-4 Blitzer Coverage/Speed Man Coverage/Ballhawk Balanced Balanced

K P

146

Balanced Balanced

K P

Big Foot/Distance Balanced

K P

Big Foot/Distance Balanced

K P

Balanced Big Foot/Distance

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

In 1994, Tom Tupa of the Cleveland Browns became the first player in NFL history to score a two-point conversion in a regular season game. He ran in a fake extra point kick against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Chiefs

Colts

Cowboys

Dolphins

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Field General Power Balanced Strong/Blocking Soft Hands/Routes Run Block Specialist Run Block Specialist Smart/Mobile

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Pure Passer Receiving Receiving Balanced Soft Hands/Routes Pass Block Specialist Run Block Specialist Smart/Mobile

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Balanced Blocking Speed Playmaker Size/Strength/Engulfer Balanced Balanced

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Balanced Balanced Blocking Speed Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Balanced Run Stopper Prototype Coverage/Speed Cover 2 Centerfielder Coverage

Undersized Speed Rusher DE DT Pass Rusher/One Gap Penetrator Coverage/Cover 2 OLB Coverage/Speed MLB CB Cover 2 FS Centerfielder SS Run Support/Big Hitter

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Versatile/3-4 Run Stopper Pass Rusher/3-4 Blitzer 3-4/Tackler Prototype Man Coverage Run Support/Big Hitter

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Versatile/3-4 Versatile/3-4 Pass Rusher/3-4 Blitzer Prototype Strong/Press/Run Support Prototype Balanced

Balanced Balanced

K P

Eagles

K P

Pinpoint Accuracy Balanced

Falcons

K P

Balanced Big Foot/Distance

49ers

Balanced Balanced

K P

Giants

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Mobile/Speed Receiving Receiving Balanced Playmaker Run Block Specialist Size/Strength/Mauler Balanced

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Field General Balanced Receiving Speed Playmaker Size/Strength/Engulfer Size/Strength/Mauler Smart/Mobile

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Moves Blocking Strong/Blocking Playmaker Size/Strength/Engulfer Size/Strength/Mauler Size/Strength/Mauler

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Power Balanced Tall/Redzone Threat Playmaker Run Block Specialist Run Block Specialist Size/Strength/Mauler

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Undersized Speed Rusher Prototype Pass Rusher/3-4 Blitzer Power/Blitzer Prototype Run Support/Blitzer Run Support/Big Hitter

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Prototype Prototype Balanced Power/Blitzer Man Coverage/Ballhawk Centerfielder Run Support/Big Hitter

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Versatile/3-4 Versatile/3-4 Prototype 3-4/Tackler Prototype Balanced Smart/Productive

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Prototype Prototype Prototype Prototype Prototype Prototype Prototype

K P

Balanced Balanced

Jaguars

K P

Balanced Balanced

Jets

K P

Balanced Balanced

Lions

Big Foot/Distance Big Foot/Distance

K P

Packers

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Moves Ball Carrier Tall/Redzone Threat Blocking Size/Strength/Engulfer Balanced Smart/Mobile

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Pure Passer Balanced Balanced Quick/Route Runner Balanced Balanced Smart/Mobile Size/Strength/Mauler

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Pure Passer Speed Balanced Tall/Redzone Threat Playmaker Size/Strength/Engulfer Run Block Specialist Pass Block Specialist

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Workhorse Balanced Speed Balanced Pass Block Specialist Smart/Mobile Smart/Mobile

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Run Stopper Prototype Prototype Coverage/Speed Prototype Run Support/Blitzer Run Support/Big Hitter

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Run Stopper Versatile/3-4 Pass Rusher/3-4 Blitzer Coverage/Speed Prototype Run Support/Blitzer Smart/Productive

Prototype DE DT Pass Rusher/One Gap Penetrator Coverage/Cover 2 OLB Coverage/Speed MLB CB Cover 2 FS Centerfielder SS Run Support/Big Hitter

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Balanced Prototype Prototype Balanced Strong/Press/Run Support Man Coverage Coverage

K P

Big Foot/Distance Balanced

TEAM PROFILES

K P

Balanced Balanced

K P

Balanced Balanced

K P

Balanced Balanced

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TEAM POSITION PHILOSOPHIES Panthers

Patriots

Raiders

Rams

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Field General Moves Blocking Balanced Blocking Pass Block Specialist Size/Strength/Mauler Balanced

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Field General Workhorse Receiving Tall/Redzone Threat Playmaker Smart/Mobile Balanced Balanced

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Speed Ball Carrier Speed Playmaker Size/Strength/Engulfer Size/Strength/Mauler Size/Strength/Mauler

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Pure Passer Balanced Ball Carrier Quick/Route Runner Playmaker Balanced Run Block Specialist Size/Strength/Mauler

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Prototype Prototype Coverage/Cover 2 Prototype Cover 2 Centerfielder Balanced

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Versatile/3-4 Versatile/3-4 Pass Rusher/3-4 Blitzer 3-4/Tackler Balanced Balanced Run Support/Big Hitter

Undersized Speed Rusher DE DT Pass Rusher/One Gap Penetrator Balanced OLB 3-4/Tackler MLB CB Prototype FS Prototype SS Prototype

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Undersized Speed Rusher Balanced Coverage/Cover 2 Coverage/Speed Man Coverage/Ballhawk Centerfielder Run Support/Big Hitter

Balanced Balanced

K P

Ravens

Pinpoint Accuracy Balanced

K P

Redskins

K P

Big Foot/Distance Big Foot/Distance

Saints

Pinpoint Accuracy Balanced

K P

Seahawks

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Power Blocking Quick/Route Runner Playmaker Size/Strength/Engulfer Size/Strength/Mauler Run Block Specialist

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Workhorse Receiving Speed H-back Size/Strength/Engulfer Pass Block Specialist Balanced

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Pure Passer Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced Balanced

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Field General Balanced Balanced Quick/Route Runner Playmaker Size/Strength/Engulfer Size/Strength/Mauler Pass Block Specialist

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Versatile/3-4 Run Stopper Pass Rusher/3-4 Blitzer Prototype Prototype Prototype Prototype

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Run Stopper Balanced Prototype 3-4/Tackler Man Coverage/Ballhawk Prototype Prototype

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Prototype Run Stopper Run Stopper 3-4/Tackler Strong/Press/Run Support Man Coverage Coverage

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Undersized Speed Rusher Prototype Prototype Balanced Man Coverage/Ballhawk Centerfielder Run Support/Big Hitter

Pinpoint Accuracy Balanced

K P

Steelers

K P

Balanced Balanced

Texans

K P

Balanced Balanced

Titans

K P

Big Foot/Distance Big Foot/Distance

Vikings

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

POS.

TEAM PREFERS

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Field General Power Blocking Strong/Blocking Balanced Run Block Specialist Run Block Specialist Run Block Specialist

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Field General Workhorse Balanced Speed Soft Hands/Routes Smart/Mobile Smart/Mobile Smart/Mobile

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Mobile/Speed Speed Blocking Balanced Playmaker Balanced Run Block Specialist Smart/Mobile

QB HB FB WR TE T G C

Strong Arm/Tools Balanced Balanced Speed Balanced Pass Block Specialist Size/Strength/Mauler Pass Block Specialist

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Run Stopper Run Stopper Pass Rusher/3-4 Blitzer Power/Blitzer Strong/Press/Run Support Man Coverage Prototype

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Prototype Run Stopper Balanced Prototype Man Coverage/Ballhawk Centerfielder Coverage

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Balanced Prototype Prototype Power/Blitzer Man Coverage/Ballhawk Centerfielder Balanced

DE DT OLB MLB CB FS SS

Run Stopper Prototype Balanced 3-4/Tackler Cover 2 Centerfielder Coverage

K P

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Balanced Balanced

K P

Balanced Balanced

K P

Balanced Balanced

K P

Balanced Balanced P

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

‘We talked in the locker room at halftime that we just had to keep our poise and continue to play, and we’d have a chance in the 4th quarter.’

—Tony Dungy after the Colts overcame an 18-point halftime deficit to beat the Patriots in the AFC Championship Game in January 2007

DATA COMPENDIUM FOOTBALL GLOSSARY

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2008 DRAFT/FREE AGENTS 158 EASTER EGGS

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XBOX 360 ACHIEVEMENTS 160 THE LAST WORD

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FOOTBALL GLOSSARY 0-9 3-3 (or 3-3-5) defense A defense with three lineman, three linebackers and five defensive backs. Often called a 3-3 stack. In NFL Head Coach 09, the 3-3-5 is a playbook that a college coach might bring to the pro level. 3-4 defense A defensive formation with three linemen and four linebackers. 4-3 defense A defensive formation with four linemen and three linebackers. Several variations are employed. 4-6 defense A defense with four down linemen and six linebackers. Pronounced “four-six defense.” 46 defense Not to be confused with the 4-6 (foursix) defense; a formation of the 4-3 defense (four linemen and three linebackers) in which three defensive backs (the two cornerbacks and the strong safety) crowd the line of scrimmage. The remaining safety, who is the free safety, stays in the backfield. It is also known as the “Bear” defense because it was popularized by Buddy Ryan while coaching for the Chicago Bears. Pronounced “forty-six defense.”

A audible A play called by the quarterback at the line of scrimmage to change the play originally called in the huddle. An audible is usually called after the quarterback sees how the defense lines up, and calls a new play to counter that defense.

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automatic first down For several of the most severe penalties, including pass interference and all personal fouls, an automatic first down is rewarded to the offense even if the yardage of that penalty is less than what’s needed for a first down.

B blitz A defensive maneuver in which one or more linebackers or defensive backs, who normally remain behind the line of scrimmage, instead charge into the opponents’ backfield. (Exception: In the 3-4 defense, when one linebacker rushes the passer with the three down linemen, it is not considered a blitz.) blind side The back side of a player; for QBs, it’s the side opposite the throwing arm (i.e. a right-handed QB has a blind left side). blocking When a player obstructs another player’s path with his body. booth (or review booth) A location where NFL officials conduct instant replay activities such as reviewing footage and coordinating with onfield officials. bootleg An offensive play based upon misdirection in which the quarterback pretends to hand the ball to another player, then carries the ball in the opposite direction of the supposed ball carrier with the intent of either passing or running. A naked bootleg is a risky variation of this play when the quarterback has no blockers pulling out with him. box An area on the defensive side of the ball opposite the offensive linemen and about five yards deep. Having eight players in “the box” means bringing in a defensive back, normally a safety, to help stop the offense’s running game.

bust A highly touted draft pick that fails to live up to expectations. bye week An NFL team’s week off during the regular season.

C center A player position on offense. The center snaps the ball. chains The 10-yard-long chain used by the chain crew to measure for a new series of downs. check off A synonym for audible. chuck and duck A style of offense with minimal pass protection requiring the quarterback to “chuck” the ball, then “duck” to avoid a defensive lineman. clipping An illegal block in which the victim is blocked from the back and below the waist. Originally, clipping was defined as any block from the back, but is now restricted to blocks below the waist. coffin corner The corner of the field of play. Punters often attempt to kick the ball out of bounds toward the “coffin corner” to pin the receiving team near their own end zone and/or prevent a punt return. contain A defensive assignment. On outside runs such as a sweep, one defensive player (usually a cornerback or outside linebacker) is assigned to keep the rusher from turning upfield. If executed properly, the rusher has to either cut back inside or turn upfield before the play calls for it, giving the linebackers a better chance of stopping the play.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

Coach Hank Stram was the first to use plays featuring two tight ends on offense, and stacked linebackers on defense (in which the linebackers lined up directly behind the linemen).

cornerback (CB) A defensive back who lines up near the line of scrimmage across from a wide receiver. His primary job is to disrupt passing routes and to defend against short and medium passes in the passing game, and to contain the rusher on rushing plays. counter A running play in which the running back takes a step in the apparent direction of the play (i.e., the direction the line is moving), only to get the handoff in the other direction. Weakside linemen sometimes pull and lead the back downfield (sometimes called a counter trap). The play is designed to get the defense to flow away from the action for a few steps as they follow the linemen, allowing more room for the running back. cut (or cutback) A sharp change of direction by a running player.

D dead ball A ball that is no longer in play. defensive back A cornerback or safety position on the defense; commonly covers wide receivers on passing plays. Many defenses use four defensive backs but some use five or six; see nickel back and dime back. defensive end (DE) A player position on defense who lines up on the outside of the defensive line. defensive tackle (DT) A player position on defense on the inside of the defensive line. When a defensive tackle lines up across from the center, he is known as a nose tackle. defensive team The team that begins a play from scrimmage not in possession of the ball.

DATA COMPENDIUM

dime back The second extra, or sixth total, defensive back. Named because a dime has the same value as two nickels. direct snap Often refers to a play in which the center snaps to someone other than the quarterback (usually a running back). Such a snap eliminates the need for a handoff from the quarterback and is usually designed to confuse the defense. double reverse A play in which the ball reverses direction twice behind the line of scrimmage. This is accomplished by means of two or three handoffs, each handoff going in an opposite direction as the previous one. Such a play is infrequent in football. down One of a series of plays in which the offensive team must advance at least 10 yards or lose possession. First down is the first of the plays; fourth is the last down in the NFL. A first down occurs after a change of possession of the ball, after advancing the ball 10 yards following a previous first down, or after certain penalties. down lineman A player stationed in front of the line of scrimmage and who has either one (three-point stance) or two (four-point stance) hands on the ground. draw play A play in which the quarterback drops back as if to pass, then hands off to a running back or runs with the ball himself. Contrast with scramble. drive 1. A continuous set of offensive plays gaining substantial yardage and at least one first down. 2. A blocking technique (drive block) in which an offensive player (through angle of attack or with assistance from teammates) drives a defender out of position, creating a hole for the ball carrier.

drop kick A kick in which the ball is dropped and kicked after it hits the ground and before it hits it again; a half-volley kick. Such kicks are virtually non-existent in modern-day NFL games. exhibition game A game that does not count toward a team’s season record; all pre-season games are technically exhibition games.

E eligible receivers Players who may legally touch a forward pass. While only certain players on an offense are considered eligible, all defensive players are technically eligible receivers. After a forward pass is touched by a player on defense, all players on the field become eligible. encroachment An illegal action by a player to cross the line of scrimmage and make contact with an opponent before the ball is snapped, or to line up offside and remain there when the ball is put in play. empty backfield Refers to a formation that has only the quarterback in the backfield; such a formation dictates five receivers on or near the line of scrimmage. end zone The area between the end line and the goal line, bounded by the sidelines. extra point A point scored in a conversion attempt by making what would be a field goal or a safety during general play.

F fair catch An unhindered catch of an opponent’s kick. The player wanting to make a fair catch must signal for it by waving an arm overhead while the ball is in the air.

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FOOTBALL GLOSSARY After that signal, if he gains possession of the ball, it is dead immediately, and opponents are penalized for hitting him. fake An adjective used to describe an action on the field that is expected to occur but does not (such as a fake punt or blitz), or is intended to deceive the opposing team (such as a fake handoff). false start A penalty in which the offense moves illegally before the ball is snapped. fantasy football A game in which the participants (called “owners”) each draft (on their own or with the aid of software) a team of real-life NFL players, then score points based on those players’ statistical performance. field of play The area bordered by both the goal lines and the sidelines. field goal Score of three points made by place kicking (or drop kicking) the ball through the opponent’s goal other than via a kickoff or free kick following a safety. flanker A player position on offense. A wide receiver who lines up one or more yards off the line of scrimmage outside of another receiver. flat An area on the field between the line of scrimmage and 10 yards into the defensive backfield, and within 15 yards of the sideline. Running backs often run pass routes to the flat when they are the safety valve receivers. flea flicker A trick play in which a running back laterals the ball to the quarterback, who then throws a pass to a receiver.

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flood A strategy in which an offense sends many players (usually wide receivers) to a specific part of the field to try and outnumber the defenders there. formation An arrangement of the offensive players. A formation is usually described in terms of how the running backs line up and/or how the wide receivers line up. Rules limit what is legal in a formation: All five offensive linemen must be on the line of scrimmage (a small amount of leeway is given to tackles when lined up for pass protection). Also, there must be one receiver (usually one tight end and one wide receiver) lined up on the line on either side of the offensive line. A receiver who is on the line may not go in motion. forward pass A pass that touches a person, object, or the ground closer to the opponent’s end line than where it was released from, or is accidentally lost during a forward throwing motion. four-point stance A down lineman’s stance with two feet and two hands on the ground. free agent A prospective player not drafted by or exclusively contracted to any team. free kick A kick made to put the ball in play as a kickoff or following a safety. free safety (FS) A player position on defense. Free safeties often have the responsibility of assisting other defensive backs in deep coverage (compared to strong safeties, who usually have an assigned receiver and run support responsibilities). fullback (FB) A player position on offense. Originally, lined up deep behind the quarterback in the T formation. In modern formations this position may be varied, and this player has more blocking responsibilities in comparison with the halfback or tailback.

fumble A ball that a player accidentally loses possession of.

G GM In this guide, this is an abbreviation for general manager. In the NFL, the general manager is responsible for scouting players, negotiating contracts, and overseeing front office operations. goal A surface in space marked by a structure of two upright posts 18-1/2 feet apart extending above a horizontal crossbar whose top edge is 10 feet off the ground. The goal is the surface above the bar and between the lines of the inner edges of the posts, extending infinitely upward, centered above each end line in the NFL. goal line The front of the end zone. guard One of two player positions on offense (see lineman). A five-player defensive line has one guard, a defensive line of six or more players has two guards, and a defensive line of fewer than five players has no guard.

H Hail Mary A long pass play, thrown toward a group of receivers near the end zone in hope of a touchdown. Used by an offense as a last resort when time is running out in either of two halves (usually by a team trailing in the second half). Refers to the Catholic prayer. halfback A player position on offense. Also known as a tailback.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

George Halas was the first pro football coach to hold daily practice sessions, study opponents’ game film, and set up radio broadcasting of his team’s games.

halfback option pass A trick play in which the halfback can either throw a pass or run with the ball if no receiver is open. handoff A player’s handing of a live ball to another player. The handoff goes either backward or laterally, as opposed to a forward pass. hash marks Lines between which the ball begins each play. The lines are parallel to and a distance in from the side lines and marked as broken lines. holder A player who holds the ball upright for a place kick. Often backup quarterbacks are used for their superior ball-handling ability (as well as their ability to pass in case of a fake kick or botched hold). holding 1. Offensive holding: Illegally blocking a player from the opposing team by grabbing and holding his uniform or body. 2. Defensive holding: called against defensive players who impede receivers more than five yards from the line of scrimmage, but who are not actively making an attempt to catch the ball (if the defensive player were to impede an offensive player in the act of catching the ball, that would be the more severe penalty of pass interference). huddle An on-field gathering of members of a team in order to secretly communicate instructions for the upcoming play.

I I formation A formation that includes a fullback and tailback lined up with the fullback directly in front of the tailback. If a third back is in line, this is known as a “Full House I.” If the third back is lined up alongside the fullback, it’s known as a “Power I.”

DATA COMPENDIUM

incomplete pass A forward pass of the ball that no player legally caught. inside 1. Of a player’s path: relatively close (in reference to the sides of the field) to where the ball was snapped from. Thus, a ball carrier’s path in crossing the neutral zone may be said to be “inside” of an opponent, or an “inside run” in general, and a rushing defensive player may be said to put on an “inside move” or “inside rush.” 2. Of the movement of the ball between players: directed toward a player who cuts between a player in the backfield who throws or hands the ball and the place from which it was snapped. Thus, an “inside pass” or “inside handoff.” intentional grounding An illegal forward pass thrown beyond the line of scrimmage without an intended receiver and no chance of completion to any offensive player. Intentional grounding is not called in the case of a spike or if the QB is outside the tackle box at the time of the pass. interception The legal catching of a forward pass thrown by an opposing player.

J Jumbo An offensive package that includes two tight ends, a fullback, and a halfback. Similar to heavy jumbo, in which either the halfback or the fullback is replaced by another tight end. Often one (or more) “tight ends” is actually a linebacker or offensive lineman. In those cases, the player must report to the game officials as an eligible receiver.

K kick As a verb, to strike the ball deliberately with the foot; as a noun, an action producing a punt, place kick, or drop kick.

kickoff A free kick that starts each half, or restarts the game following a touchdown or field goal. The kickoff may be a place kick or a drop kick. kick returner A player on the receiving team who specializes in fielding kicks and running them back. On some NFL teams, talented wide receivers or defensive backs will also return kicks. kneel-down A low-risk play in which the quarterback kneels down after receiving the snap, ending the play. It’s almost always used to run out the clock.

L lateral A pass thrown to the side or backward. Also called a “backward pass.” line of scrimmage/scrimmage line One of two vertical planes parallel to the goal line when the ball is to be put in play by scrimmage. For each NFL team, the line of scrimmage is through the point of the ball closest to their end line. The two lines of scrimmage are called the offensive line of scrimmage and the defensive line of scrimmage. linebacker A player position on defense. Linebackers typically play one to three yards behind the defensive linemen and have both run and pass defense responsibilities. They are often called on to blitz. lineman A defensive or offensive position on the line of scrimmage. 1. On offense, the player snapping the ball is the center. The players on either side of him are the guards, and the players to the outside of him are tackles. The players on the end of the line are the ends. This may be varied in an unbalanced line.

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FOOTBALL GLOSSARY 2. On defense, the outside linemen are ends, and those inside are tackles. If there are five or six linemen, the innermost linemen are known as guards. The latter is rarely seen in the NFL except for some goal-line defenses. live ball Any ball in play, whether it is in a player’s possession or not. The ball is live during plays from scrimmage and free kicks, including kickoffs. long snapper A center who specializes in long, accurate snaps required for punts and field goal attempts. Most NFL teams employ a specialist long snapper instead of the starting center to perform this duty. loose ball Any ball that is in play and not in a player’s possession. This includes a ball in flight during a lateral or forward pass.

M man in motion A player on offense who is moving backward or parallel to the line of scrimmage just before the snap. In the NFL, only one offensive player can be in motion at a time, cannot be moving toward the line of scrimmage at the snap, and may not be a player on the line of scrimmage. man-to-man coverage (also known as man coverage) A defense in which all players in pass coverage, typically linebackers and defensive backs, cover a specific player. Pure man coverage is very rare; defenses typically mix man and zone coverage. mock draft A simulated draft that attempts to predict the prospects each team will select, based on their needs. Each NFL team has its own mock draft to figure out which players will likely be available when its draft slot rolls around.

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muff A loose ball that’s dropped or mishandled while a player attempts to gain possession; the term is most often used when a punt or kick isn’t caught cleanly.

N National Football League (NFL) The largest professional football league in the United States, if not the world. neutral zone The region between the lines of scrimmage or between the free kick restraining lines. nickel back An extra, or fifth, defensive back. Named after the coin. Popularized by the Miami Dolphins in the 1970s; now common. no-huddle offense A tactic in which the offense quickly forms near the line of scrimmage without huddling before the next play. Offenses go “no huddle” to establish momentum, save time on the game clock, and/or prevent the opposing defense from regrouping or substituting personnel. nose tackle A tackle in a three-man defensive line who lines up directly opposite from the center on offense.

0 offside An infraction of the rule that requires both teams to be on their own side of their restraining line as or before the ball is put into play. Offside is normally called on the defensive team. one-back formation A formation in which the offensive team has one running back in the backfield with the quarterback. Other eligible receivers are near the line of scrimmage.

onside kick A play in which the kicking team tries to recover the kicked ball. option Usually, a type of play in which the quarterback has the option of handing off, keeping or laterally passing to one or more backs. Often described by a type of formation or play action, such as triple option, veer option, or counter option. Teams running option plays often specialize in them. Less often, a play in which a back may either pass or run. outside Opposite of inside (see inside).

P package The group of players on the field for a given play. For example, the nickel package substitutes a cornerback for either a linebacker or a defensive lineman (the latter is referred to as a 3-3-5 nickel), or the jumbo package substitutes a wide receiver with a tight end. pass interference When a player illegally hinders an eligible receiver’s opportunity to catch a forward pass. passing play A play in which a forward pass is attempted by the offense. pistol The pistol is essentially a modified shotgun formation that has the QB three or four yards behind center, and an HB lined up behind the quarterback. The advantage of the pistol for the running game is that the HB can build speed, have more time to read the offensive line, and pick a hole to burst through. It can also be used to run the option. However, with four WRs and the QB in shotgun, passing options remain available on every play. In NFL Head Coach 09, the pistol is a playbook that a college coach might bring to the pro level.

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

There are 21 coaches inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame; the first coaches to be inducted in 1963 were George Halas and Earl Lambeau.

place kick Kicking the ball from where it has been placed stationary on the ground or, when legal, on a tee. play 1. The action between the snap of the ball and the end of play signaled by the official’s whistle for a tackle or out of bounds. 2. The plan of action the offensive team has for each snap. play action A tactic in which the quarterback fakes either a handoff or a throw to draw the defense away from the intended play. play clock A timer used to increase the pace of the game between plays. The offensive team must snap the ball before the time expires. Currently, the NFL uses 40 seconds (25 seconds after a time out). playbook A collection of plays designed for a specific team’s offense or defense. pocket An area on the offensive side of the line of scrimmage where the offensive linemen attempt to prevent defensive players from reaching the quarterback during passing plays. When a quarterback remains between the hash marks during a pass play, he’s generally considered “in the pocket.” prevent defense A conservative defensive strategy that uses deep zone coverage to prevent big pass plays, at the expense of giving up yards at shorter distances. Often used against Hail Mary plays, or at the end of the game when the defending team is protecting a lead. pulling A term used to describe an offensive lineman who, instead of blocking the player in front of him, moves down the line to block another player.

DATA COMPENDIUM

punt A kick in which the ball is dropped and kicked before it reaches the ground. Used to give up the ball to the opposition after offensive downs have been used, as far down the field as possible. punter A kicker who specializes in punting as opposed to place kicking.

Q quarter defense Defensive formation with seven defensive backs, three down linemen, and one linebacker. This is a pass-oriented defense. quarterback (QB) An offensive player who lines up behind the center, from whom he takes the snap. quick kick An unexpected punt; it is often performed on third down by the quarterback (or another player in the backfield with kicking skill) to catch the defense by surprise and prevent a return.

R receiver A wide receiver. reception When a player catches the ball. red zone The area between the 20-yard line and the goal of the defensive team. Offenses are often judged by their ability to score after reaching the red zone. referee The official who directs the other officials on the field. He is one of seven officials.

reverse An offensive play in which a ball carrier going toward one side of the field hands or tosses the ball to a teammate running in the opposite direction (if the second ball carrier is an end, it is also referred to as an “end around”). rollout A designed movement by the quarterback toward one side of the field, usually to give the passer more time to locate receivers downfield and/or the option to run if no one is open. run and shoot An offensive philosophy designed to force the defense to show its hand prior to the snap of the ball by splitting up receivers and sending them in motion. Receivers often run patterns based on how defenders react to their offensive set-up, rather than a predetermined plan. running back A player position on offense. Although the term usually refers to the halfback or tailback, fullbacks are also considered running backs. running play A play where the offense attempts to advance the ball without passing. rush 1. Trying to tackle or hurry a player before he can throw a pass or make a kick. 2. A running play.

S sack Tackling a ball carrier who intends to throw a forward pass. A sack is also awarded if a player forces a fumble of the ball, or the ball carrier to go out of bounds, behind the line of scrimmage on an apparent intended forward pass play.

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FOOTBALL GLOSSARY safety 1. A player position on defense (see free safety and strong safety). 2. A method of scoring (worth two points) by downing an opposing ball carrier in his own end zone, forcing the opposing ball carrier out of his own end zone and out of bounds, or forcing the offensive team to fumble the ball so that it exits their own end zone. A safety is also awarded if the offensive team commits a penalty within its own end zone. After a safety, the team that was scored upon must kick the ball to the scoring team from its own 20-yard line. A safety scored during a try scores one point and is followed by a kickoff. scramble On a called pass play, when the quarterback runs from the pocket in an attempt to avoid being sacked, giving the receivers more time to get open or attempting to gain positive yards by running himself. Generally a scramble is improvised by the quarterback; if it’s part of the play design, it’s known as a rollout. screen pass A short forward pass to a receiver who has blockers in front of him. The receiver in this play is usually a running back, although wide receiver and tight end screens are also used. Although they are both called screen passes, the wide receiver screen and the running back screen are used for different reasons. In the case of a running back screen, the play is designed to allow the pass rushers by the offensive linemen, leaving the defender out of position to make a play. The play is employed to defuse the pass rush in the case of a running back screen. The wide receiver screen is a faster-developing play, designed to catch the defense off guard. shotgun formation Formation in which offensive teams may line up at the start of a play. In this formation, the quarterback receives the snap five to eight yards behind the center.

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sideline One of the lines marking each side of the field. As adjective: on the field near a sideline. signature play A play (usually offensive) or type of play repeatedly run by a team that uniquely defines that team’s playing style. slot The area between a split end and the offensive line. A pass receiver lined up in the slot at the snap of the ball may be called a slotback or slot receiver. snap The handoff or pass from the center that begins a play from scrimmage. sneak An offensive play in which the quarterback, on receiving the snap, dives forward with the ball. special teams The units that handle kickoffs, punts, free kicks, and field goal attempts. spike A play in which the quarterback throws the ball at the ground after the snap. An incomplete pass, it stops the clock. A spike is not intentional grounding. splits The distance between the feet of adjacent offensive linemen. Said to be wide, if there is a large gap between players, or narrow, if the gap is small. squib kick A type of kickoff in which the ball is intentionally kicked low to the ground, bouncing on the ground a few times before being picked up. This is done in the hopes of preventing a long return, as the ball is picked up by one of the upmen as opposed to the designated kickoff returner. stiff-arm or straight-arm A ball carrier warding off a would-be tackler by pushing them away with a straight arm.

strong I A formation wherein the tailback is lined up deep directly behind the quarterback, and the fullback is lined up offset to the strong side of the formation. strong safety (SS) A kind of safety on defense, as opposed to a free safety. This is a central defensive back; originally, the term indicated that he lined up on the strong side of the field and covered the tight end. However, the modern usage of the term now indicates a central defensive back with responsibility for run and pass support. strong side The side of the field (left or right) that has the most players, but it depends on the formations of the teams. When a team uses one tight end, the strong side is the side of the field where the tight end lines up. If the offensive package uses no tight end, or more than one tight end, the strong side is the side of the field with the most offensive players on or behind the line of scrimmage. stunt A tactic used by defensive linemen in which they switch roles in an attempt to get past the blockers. Both defenders start with power rushes, with the stunting defender getting more of a push. The other lineman then goes around him, ideally using him as a pick to get free from his blocker. sweep A running play in which several blockers lead a running back on a designed play to the outside.

T tackle 1. The act of forcing a ball carrier to the ground. 2. A player position on the line, either an offensive tackle or a defensive tackle (see lineman).

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

The first round of the 1983 NFL draft is considered by many to be the greatest pool of talent ever chosen in a single round. It included quarterbacks John Elway, Dan Marino and Jim Kelly as well as running back Eric Dickerson.

three-and-out When an offensive team fails to gain a first down on the first three plays of a drive, and thus is forced to punt on fourth down. three-point stance A down lineman’s stance with three points (his two feet and one of his hands) on the ground. tight end A player position on offense, an eligible receiver lined up on the line of scrimmage, next to the offensive tackle. Tight ends are used as blockers during running plays, and either run a route or stay in to block during passing plays. touchback The act of downing the ball behind one’s own goal line after the ball had been propelled over the goal by the opposing team. After a touchback, the team that downed it gets the ball at its own 20-yard line. touchdown A play worth six points, accomplished by gaining legal possession of the ball in the opponent’s end zone. It also allows the team a chance for either one extra point by kicking the ball or a twopoint conversion. trap A basic blocking pattern in which a defensive lineman is allowed past the line of scrimmage, only to be blocked at an angle by a “pulling” lineman. Traps are designed to gain a preferred blocking angle and create a larger hole in the line. trips A formation in which three wide receivers are lined up close to one another on the same side of the field. Also refers to those receivers. Used to create potential for confusion or collision between defenders as these receivers split up. two-point conversion A play worth two points accomplished by gaining legal possession of the ball in the opponent’s end zone after a touchdown has been made.

DATA COMPENDIUM

U unbalanced line Refers to an offensive formation that does not have an equal number of linemen on each side of the ball. Done to gain a blocking advantage on one side of the formation; typically one tackle or guard lines up on the other side of the ball. For example, a common alignment would be E-G-C-G-T-T-E. upman During a kickoff, every player on the return team is called an “upman” with the exception of the one or two designated kickoff returners, who stand farthest away from the starting point of the kicking team.

wide receiver A player position on offense. He is split wide (about 10 yards) from the formation and plays on the line of scrimmage as a split end or one yard off as a flanker. wild card An NFL team that makes the playoffs by having one of the top two records among non-division winners in its conference (AFC or NFC). wing back A player position in some offensive formations. Lines up outside the tight end and one yard off the line of scrimmage. May be a receiver but is more typically used as a blocking back.

W war room The term for the location where a team’s coaches and staff gather to strategize and make their picks during the NFL Draft. weak I A formation wherein the tailback is lined up deep directly behind the quarterback, and the fullback is lined up offset to the weak side of the formation. weak side When one tight end is used, the side of the field opposite the tight end. In other offensive packages, the side of the field with the fewest offensive players on or behind the line of scrimmage. West Coast offense An offensive philosophy that uses short high-percentage passes as the core of a ball-control offense. A main component of this offense is use of all the eligible receivers in the short passing game.

Xs and Os In a play diagram, Xs signify defensive players, Os signify offensive players.

Y Y receiver Term often used in offensive play calling to refer to the tight end.

Z zone defense A defense in which players in pass coverage cover zones of the field instead of individual receivers. Pure zone packages are seldom used; most defenses employ some combination of zone and man coverage. zone blitz A defensive package combining a blitz with zone pass coverage. Allows the defense to choose the blitzer after the offense shows formation and pass coverage requirements, and features unpredictable blitzes from different linebackers and defensive backs.

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2008 DRAFT/FREE AGENTS Defensive End (Right Side) 1. Chris Long / Virginia 2. Philip Merling / Clemson 3. Jason Jones / Eastern Michigan 4. Quentin Groves / Auburn 5. Calais Campbell / Miami

For players redoing the 2008 draft, here’s a look at the top five players at each position as rated by the NFL Head Coach 09 development team:

TOP OFFENSIVE PROSPECTS 2008 DRAFT CLASS

Quarterback 1. Matt Ryan / Boston College 2. Joe Flacco / Delaware 3. Brian Brohm / Louisville 4. Chad Henne / Michigan 5. Dennis Dixon / Oregon

When viewing draft prospects, press the X button (Square on PS3) to view a player’s grades and various scouting details.

Defensive Tackle 1. Glenn Dorsey / LSU 2. Sedrick Ellis / USC 3. Kentwan Balmer / North Carolina 4. Trevor Laws / Notre Dame 5. Pat Sims / Auburn

Halfback 1. Darren McFadden / Arkansas 2. Jonathan Stewart / Oregon 3. Rashard Mendenhall / Illinois 4. Chris Johnson / E. Carolina 5. Felix Jones / Arkansas

Tackle (Left) 1. Jake Long / Michigan 2. Ryan Clady / Boise State 3. Chris Williams / Vanderbilt 4. Duane Brown / Virginia Tech 5. Sam Baker / USC

Middle Linebacker 1. Curtis Lofton / Oklahoma 2. Dan Connor / Penn State 3. Tavares Gooden / Miami 4. Philip Wheeler / Georgia Tech 5. Beau Bell / UNLV

Fullback 1. Jacob Hester / LSU 2. Owen Schmitt / West Virginia 3. Jerome Felton / Furman 4. Peyton Hillis / Arkansas 5. Carl Stewart / Auburn

Tackle (Right) 1. Gosder Cherilus / Boston College 2. Jeff Otah / Pittsburgh 3. John Greco / Toledo 4 Breno Giacomini / Louisville 5. Carl Nicks / Nebraska

Outside Linebacker (Left) 1. Jerod Mayo / Tennessee 2. Jordan Dizon / Colorado 3. Shawn Crable / Michigan 4. Bruce Davis / UCLA 5. Clifford Avril / Purdue

Wide Receiver 1. Jordy Nelson / Kansas State 2. Devin Thomas / Michigan State 3. Donnie Avery / Houston 4. James Hardy / Indiana 5. Jerome Simpson / Coastal Carolina

Center 1. Mike Pollak / Arizona State 2. Cody Wallace / Texas A&M 3. K. Lichtensteiger / Bowling Green 4. John Sullivan / Notre Dame 5. Steven Justice / Wake Forest

Outside Linebacker (Right) 1. Vernon Gholston / Ohio State 2. Keith Rivers / USC 3. Stanford Keglar / Purdue 4. Erin Henderson / Maryland 5. Alvin Bowen / Iowa State

Tight End 1. John Carlson / Notre Dame 2. Dustin Keller / Purdue 3. Fred Davis / USC 4. Martellus Bennett / Texas A&M 5. Brad Cottam / Tennessee

TOP SPECIAL TEAMERS 2008 DRAFT CLASS

Kicker 1. Taylor Mehlhaff / Wisconsin

Guard (Left) 1. Branden Albert / Virginia 2. Chad Rinehart / Northern Iowa 3. Shawn Murphy / Utah State 4. Eric Young / Tennessee 5. Kalvin Black / Appalach. State

Punter 1. Durant Brooks / Georgia Tech

Guard (Right) 1. Chilo Rachal / USC 2. Oneil Cousins / UTEP 3. Jeremy Zuttah / Rutgers 4. Michael McGlynn / Pittsburgh 5. Roy Schuening / Oregon State

Defensive End (Left) 1. Derrick Harvey / Florida 2. Lawrence Jackson / USC 3. Kendall Langford / Hampton 4. Chris Ellis / Virginia Tech 5. Bryan Smith / McNeese State

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TOP DEFENSIVE PROSPECTS 2008 DRAFT CLASS

Cornerback 1. Leodis McKelvin / Troy 2. Dominique Cromartie / Tenn. St. 3. Mike Jenkins / USF 4. Aqib Talib / Kansas 5. Antoine Cason / Arizona Safety (Strong) 1. Kenny Phillips / Miami 2. Tyrell Johnson / Arkansas State 3. Tom Zbikowski / Notre Dame 4. DeJuan Morgan / N.C. State 5. Domonique Barber / Minnesota Free Safety 1. Thomas DeCoud / California 2. Quintin Demps / UTEP 3. Ryan Mundy / West Virginia 4. Corey Lynch / Appalach. State 5. Haruki Nakamura / Cincinnati

PRIMA OFFICIAL GAME GUIDE

EASTER EGGS Easter Egg #1: NFL Players Who Eventually Become Coaches A special group of players who retire will enter into the coaching ranks. A notable example of this is safety Corey

Chavous: He’ll become a General Manager after his playing days are over! He has said that he wants to get into front office management after he retires—so EA SPORTS thought it would be cool

to give him his first shot in NFL Head Coach 09! The list below shows the NFL players who’ll become coaches, and what coaching positions they’ll be hired for:

Corey Chavous GM

Michael Strahan DL Coach

Donnie Edwards LB Coach

Trent Green QB Coach

Lorenzo Neal RB Coach

Ronde Barber DB Coach

Hollis Thomas DL Coach

Derrick Brooks LB Coach

Charlie Batch QB Coach

Tony Richardson RB Coach

Donovin Darius DB Coach

Keith Traylor DL Coach

Mike Vrabel LB Coach

Jake Delhomme QB Coach

Jason Hanson Special Teams

John Lynch DB Coach

Zach Thomas LB Coach

Tedy Bruschi LB Coach

Trent Dilfer QB Coach

Adam Vinatieri Special Teams

Rodney Harrison DB Coach

Junior Seau LB Coach

Tom Nalen OL Coach

Jim Sorgi QB Coach

Marvin Harrison WR Coach

Ty Law DB Coach

Willie McGinest LB Coach

Jon Runyan OL Coach

Kurt Warner QB Coach

Isaac Bruce WR Coach

Sam Madison DB Coach

Jeremiah Trotter LB Coach

Jeff Saturday OL Coach

Anthony Thomas RB Coach

Bobby Engram WR Coach

Mike Rucker DL Coach

Ray Lewis LB Coach

Jeff Garcia QB Coach

Warrick Dunn RB Coach

2008 FREE AGENCY IN REVIEW REDOING THE OFF-SEASON

Here’s a look at the biggest free agents (both unrestricted and restricted) that were on the market in 2008. Although some are likely to be franchise tagged, some may not. (Players that were tagged in real life for the 2008 season are marked with an asterisk): Quarterbacks Derek Anderson / Browns (RFA) Josh McCown / Raiders (UFA) Daunte Culpepper / Raiders (UFA) Rex Grossman / Bears (UFA) Running Backs Marion Barber / Cowboys (RFA) Michael Turner / Chargers (UFA) Julius Jones / Dallas Cowboys (UFA)

DATA COMPENDIUM

Receivers and Tight Ends Randy Moss / Patriots (UFA) Bernard Berrian / Bears (UFA) D.J. Hackett / Seahawks (UFA) Dallas Clark* / Colts (UFA) L.J. Smith* / Eagles (UFA) Bryant Johnson / Cardinals (UFA) Offensive Line Alan Faneca / Steelers (UFA) Flozell Adams / Cowboys (UFA) Jake Scott / Colts (UFA) Stacy Andrews* / Bengals (UFA) Jordan Gross* / Panthers (UFA) Defensive Line Albert Haynesworth* / Titans (UFA) Jared Allen* / Chiefs (UFA) Corey Williams* / Packers (UFA) Justin Smith / Bengals (UFA) Mike Rucker / Panthers (UFA)

Linebackers Lance Briggs / Bears (UFA) Kawika Mitchell / Giants (UFA) Tedy Bruschi / Patriots (UFA) Carlos Dansby* / Cardinals (UFA) Terrell Suggs* / Ravens (UFA) Defensive Backs and Safeties Asante Samuel / Patriots (UFA) Nmandi Asomugha* / Oakland (UFA) Marcus Trufant* / Seattle (UFA) Gibril Wilson / Giants (UFA) Ken Hamlin* / Dallas (UFA) Special Teams Rob Bironas / Titans (RFA) Josh Brown / Seahawks (UFA) Jason Elam / Broncos (UFA)

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XBOX 360 ACHIEVEMENTS The Xbox 360 version of NFL Head Coach 09 uses the same achievement system used in all Xbox 360 titles. Achievements are awarded after completing a specific in-game task. Here’s a list of all the achievements (1,000 points total): ACHIEVEMENT

POINTS

DESCRIPTION

A Cut Above

Highest overall approval in the league

Best Ever

250

Win the Super Bowl 3 times

Best of All Time

100

Perfect 19-0 Season

Drawing Some Plays in the Dirt

Create 10 custom plays with the Play Editor

Gameday Guru

Complete 10 online head-to-head games

Goal Oriented

Achieve all season goals

Gold Miner

10 A player with a 90+ Overall rating who you invited to training camp makes the team

Man of the People

Player approval of 80+

Master of Plays

Get at least 50 plays to Mastery play knowledge level

Media Darling

Media approval of 80+

Mr. Popularity

Fan approval of 80+

Nerves of Steel

Make 20 successful Defining Moment decisions

One Big Happy Family

Staff approval of 80+

One for the Mantle

Win Coach of the Year

Repeat Offender

100

Win back-to-back Super Bowls

Teacher’s Pet

Owner approval of 80+

We Like You

Overall approval of 85+

We Love You

Overall approval of 90+

We Idolize You

Overall approval of 95+

Welcome to the Club

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Win 100 games with a created coach

Xs and Os Guy

Create 25 plays

You Are So Emo

Get all perfect emotional reactions during a single game

You Arrived

Win your first Super Bowl

THE LAST WORD Before you finish reading this guide, here are a few small game-related tidbits that you might find interesting: Patriots Head Coach: The Patriots’ head coach opted not to use his likeness in this game; in his stead is Hal Ophamer. Did you notice that this fictional coach’s name sounds a lot like “Hall of Famer”? A pretty fitting resemblance… Passing Game Discipline Special Skill Icon: Did you notice that in the icon, the quarterback is about to throw a rocket instead of a football?

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Notable Landmarks: Did you notice some of the landmarks as you toured the campuses of the NFL? • Chicago: Sears Tower • New York City (Jets and Giants): Both the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building (Bonus question: Can you tell which building is which?) • Oakland: Oakland Bay Bridge • Seattle: Space Needle • St. Louis: Gateway Arch • Washington D.C.: Washington Monument

The team that wins the Super Bowl gets special decorations for their campus. If you visit the Giants team campus in 2008, you’ll see special banners as well as a large sculpture of the Vince Lombardi Trophy!

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