By Doug Radcliffe
Design by Randall Montanari
Its the year of the quarterback! Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Donovan McNabb is the Madden 06 cover man and the games most important new feature adds a challenging element to the passing game. This game guide offers team and player breakdowns and stats, strategies for offense (with focus on the new quarterback vision control) and defense, and tips for NFL superstar mode. This Gamespot Madden 06 game guide includes:
Team Stats: Statistical breakdown of the current and historical NFL teams. Team Overviews: This section offers tips on all 32 NFL teams and provides stats for each teams key players. NFL Superstar: Check here for tips on the new NFL Superstar mode. Offense: Strategies for the passing and running game, including tips on the new quarterback vision control. Defense: Tips on defensive formations, adjustments, shifts, and stopping the run and the pass. Online Strategies: Provides strategies specific to online play.

Chapter 1 - Team Stats

This section reveals the primary statistics revealed on the team selection screen. Youll also find statistics for the historical teams available in Madden 06. These statistics include a relative overall, offense, and defense rating.

Current NFL Teams

The following table reveals the team statistics for the current 2005 National Football League teams.
TEAM Arizona Cardinals Atlanta Falcons Baltimore Ravens Buffalo Bills Carolina Panthers Chicago Bears Cincinnati Bengals Cleveland Browns Dallas Cowboys Denver Broncos Detroit Lions CONFERENCE AND DIVISION RECORD OVERALL OFFENSE DEFENSE NFC West NFC South AFC North AFC East NFC South NFC North AFC North AFC North NFC East AFC West NFC North 6-10 11-5 9-7 9-7 7-9 5-11 8-8 4-12 6-10 10-6 6-80 74
Green Bay Packers Houston Texans Indianapolis Colts Jacksonville Jaguars Kansas City Chiefs Miami Dolphins Minnesota Vikings New England Patriots New Orleans Saints New York Giants New York Jets Oakland Raiders Philadelphia Eagles Pittsburgh Steelers San Diego Chargers San Francisco 49ers Seattle Seahawks St. Louis Rams Tennessee Titans Washington Redskins
NFC North AFC South AFC South AFC South AFC West AFC East NFC North AFC East NFC South NFC East AFC East AFC West NFC East AFC North AFC West NFC West NFC West NFC West AFC South NFC East
10-6 7-9 12-4 9-7 7-9 4-12 8-8 14-2 8-8 6-10 10-6 5-11 13-3 15-1 12-4 2-14 9-7 8-8 5-11 5-11 6-10
Tampa Bay Buccaneers NFC South

Historic Teams

This table reveals relative statistics for the historical teams offered in Madden 06.
TEAM All Chicago Bears 88 Chicago Bears 85 Chicago Bears 77 Chicago Bears 63 Chicago Bears All Cincinnati Bengals 88 Cincinnati Bengals 81 Cincinnati Bengals 73 Cincinnati Bengals All Buffalo Bills 93 Buffalo Bills 92 Buffalo Bills 91 Buffalo Bills 90 Buffalo Bills All Denver Broncos 98 Denver Broncos RECORD OVERALL OFFENSE DEFENSE N/A 12-4 15-1 9-5 11-1-2 N/A 12-4 12-4 10-4 N/A 12-4 11-5 13-3 13-3 N/A 14-93
97 Denver Broncos 96 Denver Broncos 91 Denver Broncos 89 Denver Broncos 87 Denver Broncos 96 Denver Broncos 77 Denver Broncos All Cleveland Browns 87 Cleveland Browns 86 Cleveland Browns 70 Cleveland Browns 65 Cleveland Browns
12-4 13-3 12-4 11-5 10-4-1 11-5 12-2 N/A 10-5 12-4 7-7 11-3
All Tampa Bay Buccaneers N/A 02 Tampa Bay Buccaneers 12-Tampa Bay Buccaneers 10-6 All Arizona Cardinals 75 Arizona Cardinals All San Diego Chargers 94 San Diego Chargers 81 San Diego Chargers All Kansas City Chiefs 90 Kansas City Chiefs 71 Kansas City Chiefs 69 Kansas City Chiefs 66 Kansas City Chiefs 62 Kansas City Texans All Indianapolis Colts 77 Baltimore Colts 70 Baltimore Colts 68 Baltimore Colts 58 Baltimore Colts All Dallas Cowboys 95 Dallas Cowboys 94 Dallas Cowboys 93 Dallas Cowboys 92 Dallas Cowboys 85 Dallas Cowboys 81 Dallas Cowboys 79 Dallas Cowboys 78 Dallas Cowboys 77 Dallas Cowboys 75 Dallas Cowboys 71 Dallas Cowboys N/A 11-3 N/A 11-5 10-6 N/A 10-6 10-3-1 11-3 11-2-1 11-3 N/A 10-4 11-2-1 13-1 9-3 N/A 12-4 12-4 12-4 13-3 10-6 12-4 11-5 12-4 12-2 10-4 11-3

70 Dallas Cowboys 67 Dallas Cowboys 66 Dallas Cowboys All Miami Dolphins 85 Miami Dolphins 84 Miami Dolphins 82 Miami Dolphins 81 Miami Dolphins 78 Miami Dolphins 74 Miami Dolphins 73 Miami Dolphins 72 Miami Dolphins 71 Miami Dolphins All Philadelphia Eagles 90 Philadelphia Eagles 80 Philadelphia Eagles 60 Philadelphia Eagles All Atlanta Falcons 98 Atlanta Falcons 91 Atlanta Falcons 80 Atlanta Falcons All San Francisco 49ers 98 San Francisco 49ers 94 San Francisco 49ers 92 San Francisco 49ers 90 San Francisco 49ers 89 San Francisco 49ers 88 San Francisco 49ers 84 San Francisco 49ers 81 San Francisco 49ers 57 San Francisco 49ers All New York Giants 90 New York Giants 86 New York Giants 58 New York Giants All Jacksonville Jaguars 96 Jacksonville Jaguars All New York Jets 85 New York Jets 82 New York Jets 68 New York Jets All Detroit Lions 91 Detroit Lions
10-4 9-5 10-3-1 N/A 12-4 14-2 7-2 11-4-1 11-5 11-3 12-2 14-0 10-3-1 N/A 10-6 12-4 10-2 N/A 14-2 10-6 12-4 N/A 12-4 13-3 14-2 14-2 14-2 10-6 15-1 13-3 8-4 N/A 13-3 14-2 9-3 N/A 9-7 N/A 11-5 6-3 11-3 N/A 12-4
80 Detroit Lions 57 Detroit Lions All Green Bay Packers 98 Green Bay Packers 97 Green Bay Packers 96 Green Bay Packers 92 Green Bay Packers 67 Green Bay Packers 66 Green Bay Packers All Carolina Panthers 96 Carolina Panthers All New England Patriots 01 New England Patriots 96 New England Patriots 85 New England Patriots 76 New England Patriots All Oakland Raiders 02 Oakland Raiders 90 Los Angeles Raiders 85 Los Angeles Raiders 83 Los Angeles Raiders 80 Oakland Raiders 77 Oakland Raiders 76 Oakland Raiders 75 Oakland Raiders 74 Oakland Raiders 72 Oakland Raiders 71 Oakland Raiders 70 Oakland Raiders 69 Oakland Raiders 68 Oakland Raiders 67 Oakland Raiders All St. Louis Rams 01 St. Louis Rams 99 St. Louis Rams 84 Los Angeles Rams 79 Los Angeles Rams 75 Los Angeles Rams 67 Los Angeles Rams All Baltimore Ravens 00 Baltimore Ravens All Washington Redskins 91 Washington Redskins
9-7 8-4 N/A 11-5 13-3 13-3 9-7 9-4-1 12-2 N/A 12-4 N/A 11-5 11-5 11-4 11-3 N/A 11-5 12-4 12-4 12-4 11-5 11-3 13-1 11-3 12-2 10-3-1 8-4-2 8-4-2 12-1-1 12-2 13-1 N/A 14-2 13-3 10-6 9-7 12-2 11-1-2 N/A 12-4 N/A 14-2
87 Washington Redskins 83 Washington Redskins 82 Washington Redskins 79 Washington Redskins 72 Washington Redskins All New Orleans Saints 92 New Orleans Saints 87 New Orleans Saints All Seattle Seahawks 84 Seattle Seahawks All Pittsburgh Steelers 95 Pittsburgh Steelers 79 Pittsburgh Steelers 78 Pittsburgh Steelers 75 Pittsburgh Steelers 74 Pittsburgh Steelers 72 Pittsburgh Steelers All Tennessee Titans 99 Tennessee Titans 92 Houston Oilers 88 Houston Oilers 80 Houston Oilers 78 Houston Oilers 62 Houston Oilers All Minnesota Vikings 98 Minnesota Vikings 76 Minnesota Vikings 75 Minnesota Vikings 74 Minnesota Vikings 73 Minnesota Vikings 70 Minnesota Vikings 69 Minnesota Vikings

PLAYER POSITION OVR THP THA AWR SPD CAR INJ 49

Kurt Warner QB PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH BTK CAR 73

J.J. Arrington RB

PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH JMP AWR 82

Anquan Boldin WR PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH JMP AWR 78

Larry Fitzgerald WR

Atlanta Falcons
The Atlanta Falcons were one win away from a Super Bowl appearance, even with Michael Vicks well-published struggles adjusting to the West Coast offense. The team returns basically intact for another run at a championship. Michael Vick is still dangerous with his legs (94 speed, more than many running backs) but not as much with his arm. In Madden 06, Vicks awareness is just 78, one of the lowest among starting quarterbacks--Vicks field of vision is extremely limited.
Michael Vick is the fastest quarterback in the game but he also has one of the smallest vision cones.
The Falcons utilize an excellent one-two punch backfield. Warrick Dunn is the speedster and T.J. Duckett is the bruiser. Use Dunn out of the backfield on screens to help open up routes for the Falcons weak group of wide receivers--Dunn is arguably the best receiving running back in the game. Switch to T.J. Duckett for short-yardage and goal line situations and work the truck stick to capitalize on his 93 break tackle rating. Alge Crumpler is one of the best tight ends in the game and should be a major focus on your offensive gameplan. Mix up your running plays between speed and power, call high-percentage
pass plays with Dunn out of the backfield and Crumpler on hooks, outs, and ins, quarterback scrambles for Vicks speed, and the occasional deep ball (Vick boasts 97 throw power) to help stretch the defense and open up more shorter pass plays for Dunn and Crumpler. Atlanta Falcons Key Players
PLAYER POSITION OVR THP THA AWR SPD CAR INJ 76

Michael Vick QB PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH BTK CAR 88

Warrick Dunn RB PLAYER

T.J. Duckett RB PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD PBK RBK CTH BTK CAR 70

Alge Crumpler TE PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI TAK STR AWR 89

Patrick Kerney LE PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI TAK CTH AWR 89

Keith Brooking ROLB

Baltimore Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens remain focused on defense and a power running game. Jamal Lewis is one of the best backs in the game; combine the new truck stick with his leading 99 break tackle rating and run over would-be tacklers. Run behind left tackle Jonathan Ogden, the best offensive linemen in the game. Lewis has the power to run inside and the speed to run outside. Mix up the play calls. Establish a strong running game to take the pressure off Kyle Boller, the Ravens young inexperienced quarterback--one of the lowest rated starters in the game. Kyles 74 awareness rating provides a very small field of vision. The Ravens added all-pro wide receiver Derrick Mason to give Kyle another downfield target. Focus the passing game between Mason and Todd Heap, the Ravens highly ranked tight end. Defense is still the Ravens strong suit. The trio of Ray Lewis, Chris McAllister, and Ed Reed are basically the highest rated at their position. McAllister is rated high enough to cover anyone in man-to-man single coverage allowing you to maintain aggressive defensive playcalling. Keep Ray Lewis in coverage and blitz outside linebackers or defensive backs to pressure the offense into sacks or bad throws--the perfect opportunity for Ed Reeds 83 catch rating to snag interceptions. Baltimore Ravens Key Players

PLAYER POSITION OVR THP THA AWR SPD CAR INJ 85

Jake Delhomme QB PLAYER

Stephen Davis RB PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH BTK CAR 74

DeShaun Foster RB PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH JMP AWR 80

Steve Smith WR PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI TAK STR AWR 75

Julius Peppers LE PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI TAK STR AWR

Kris Jenkins DT

Chicago Bears
The Chicago Bears are a young team. Rex Grossman has yet to complete a season; his only two have ended in injuries. At the time of this writing, Rex was injured again, this time in the preseason (breaking his ankle and out for three to four months). Rexs awareness is one of the lowest in the league providing a tight field of vision. And the Bears drafted highly touted running back Cedric Benson to backup (or share carries with) starter Thomas Jones. Both offer nearly identical statistics, though Thomas Jones veteran status provides a much higher awareness rating. The Bears added all-pro receiver Mushin Muhammad from the Carolina Panthers. He leads a weak receiving group; hes by far the primary target so expect opponents to double him and leave the weaker receivers in single coverage. Look for Jones or Benson out of the backfield as well as Desmond Clark, the Bears tight end. On running plays, run behind center Olin Kreutz, one of the best in the game, and the left side of the offensive line. Chicago Bears Key Players
PLAYER POSITION OVR THP THA AWR SPD CAR INJ 74

Rex Grossman QB PLAYER

Thomas Jones RB PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH BTK CAR 85

Cedric Benson RB PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH JMP AWR 94
Mushin Muhammad WR PLAYER
POSITION OVR STR PBK RBK ACC AGI AWR 90

Olin Kreutz C PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI TAK CTH AWR 87

Brian Urlacher MLB

Cincinnati Bengals
The Bengals finished last years campaign at 8-8.the second year in a row without a losing record or a winning record for that matter! But the team continues to improve. Carson Palmer struggled early last season but his second half performance showed why he was the teams first round pick
a couple seasons ago. Carsons low awareness limits his field of vision. Jon Kitna is more than a capable backup and his veteran status grants higher field of vision (though lacks the throw power of Carson). Powerful running back Rudi Johnson and star receiver Chad Johnson are your primary targets on offense. Establish the power run (behind highly rated right tackle Willie Anderson) and utilize play action to hit Chad Johnson, one of the best in the game. Cincinnati Bengals Key Players
Chad Johnson is Carson Palmers primary target in the passing game. Hes one of the best receivers in the game.

Tom Brady is one of the smartest quarterbacks in the game--thus his huge vision cone.
The addition of Corey Dillon last season added another dimension to the team. He had a great season and is one of the best rated running backs in Madden: especially his 92 catch rating and 93 break tackle rating. Deion Branch has emerged as the primary receiver. Hes the teams downfield threat with 94 speed and 96 acceleration. The Patriots defense is led by veterans at each rank, including Richard Seymour, Willie McGinest, and Rodney Harrison: each one of the best at their positions. Finally, kicker Adam Vinatieri is a sure thing. New England Patriots Key Players
PLAYER POSITION OVR THP THA AWR SPD CAR INJ 96

Tom Brady QB

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH BTK CAR 92

Corey Dillon RB PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH JMP AWR 84

Deion Branch WR PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI TAK STR AWR 88
Richard Seymour RE PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI TAK CTH AWR 96
Willie McGinest LOLB PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD ACC JMP TAK CTH AWR 95
Rodney Harrison SS PLAYER
POSITION OVR KPW KAC AWR 94 94

Adam Vinatieri K

New Orleans Saints
The New Orleans Saints cant seem to get over the hump of mediocrity. It seems every season the team ends just out of the playoffs with another near.500 record. The Saints hope to lean more on star running back Deuce McAllister. Establish a strong inside and outside running game (Deuce boasts speed and power) to open up the passing lanes for Aaron Brooks, a mobile quarterback but one that lacks the awareness of more skilled signal callers. His lower awareness provides a narrow field of vision. Joe Horns solid ratings lead the Saints receivers. Use secondary receiver Donte Stallworth to stretch defenses deep. The Saints defense is average with a couple above average defensive backs, including former Packer Mike Mckenzie. New Orleans Key Players
PLAYER POSITION OVR THP THA AWR SPD CAR INJ 93

Aaron Brooks QB PLAYER

Deuce McAllister RB
PLAYER POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH JMP AWR Joe Horn WR PLAYER 94

Mike Mckenzie CB

POSITION OVR SPD ACC JMP TAK CTH AWR 77

Dwight Smith FS

New York Giants
The Eli Manning era "officially" kicks off as Peytons little brother begins the season as the undisputed starting quarterback. The talent is there but its still raw, which is reflected by his Madden 06 stats. Elis statistics arent particularly impressive and his low awareness is on the bottom edge of the leagues starting quarterbacks. His supporting cast should help. Tiki Barber had a comeback year last season and is one of the best receiving backs in the game. The Giants added Pittsburghs Plaxico Burress to provide an additional weapon for young Eli. Plaxico excels in single-coverage with his 98 jump ability. Jeremy Shockey is one of the best tight ends in the game and should be a focus of your gameplan. Michael Strahan remains the Giants premiere defensive players. New York Giants Key Players

Eric Johnson is a primary target on offense and has emerged as an excellent tight end. Kevan Barlow wasnt particularly impressive in his first year as full time starter; his stats dont place him among the leagues elite runners. Use two-back sets and include excellent fullback Fred Beasley into the mix as both a runner and pass catcher. San Francisco 49ers Key Players

Alex Smith QB PLAYER

Kevan Barlow RB PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD PBK RBK CTH BTK CAR 77

Fred Beasley FB PLAYER

Eric Johnson TE PLAYER

Julian Peterson LOLB

Tony Parrish SS

Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks were expected to contend for the NFC title last season but never achieved much consistency. Matt Hasselbeck didnt repeat his spectacular season from the year before. Hes rated well but not exceptional: decent power, accuracy, and awareness for decent field of vision. Darrell Jackson is the primary receiver. Like Hasselbeck, hes certainly solid but not a superstar in any of the important ratings. Shaun Alexander is one of the best backs in the game: good speed, excellent acceleration, and a strong break tackle rating. A strong running game should be your primary focus. Run behind highly rated left tackle Walter Jones. On defense, former Texan Jaime Sharper was added to strengthen what was also an inconsistent squad. Seattle Seahawks Key Players
Matt Hasselbeck QB PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH BTK CAR 95
Shaun Alexander RB PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD PBK RBK CTH BTK CAR 68

Matt Strong FB PLAYER

Darrell Jackson WR PLAYER

Walter Jones LT PLAYER

POSITION OVR STR PBK RBK ACC AGI AWR 86

Walter Jones LG PLAYER

Jaime Sharper LOLB

St. Louis Rams

The Rams may not be "the Greatest Show on Turf" as they were in their recent Super Bowl seasons, but the offense is still one of the most potent in the NFL. Marc Bulger hasnt quite achieved the greatness of former NFL MVP Kurt Warners best seasons but he offers decent power
and accuracy as well as good awareness for a wide field of vision. Torry Holt and Issac Bruce are the best receiving duo in the game. Both are extremely fast with high veteran awareness.

Derrick Brooks ROLB PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD ACC JMP TAK CTH AWR 91

Ronde Barber CB

Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans are no longer the class of the AFC or their division. The Indianapolis Colts should once again run away with the AFC South and both the Jaguars and Texans should show improvement. The Titans are an aging team that lack playmakers. Steve McNair is a former co-league MFP and a decent Madden 06 quarterback, but lacking in accuracy as well as durability (a low 69 injury rating). His above-average awareness provides a wide field of vision and above-average speed offers the opportunity for roll outs and scrambles-just dont get roughed up by defenders. The Titans added Travis Henry (former Buffalo Bill) in the offseason to share the load with oftinjured starter Chris Brown. Both running backs feature almost identical ratings. Drew Bennett is now the primary receiver after all-pro Derrick Mason left for the Baltimore Ravens. Tennessee Titans Key Players
PLAYER POSITION OVR THP THA AWR SPD CAR INJ 69

Steve McNair QB PLAYER

Chris Brown RB PLAYER
POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH BTK CAR 77

Travis Henry RB PLAYER

Drew Bennett WR PLAYER
POSITION OVR STR PBK RBK ACC AGI AWR 91

Brad Hopkins LT PLAYER

POSITION OVR SPD ACC AGI TAK CTH AWR 90
Keith Bulluck ROLB PLAYER

Tank Williams SS

Washington Redskins
The return of coach Joe Gibbs hasnt produced results.yet. Patrick Ramsey enters the season as the expected starting quarterback. The former first round draft pick hasnt developed the consistency required to be a premiere NFL quarterback. Former Jaguar Mark Brunell is a capable backup and actually features higher awareness (representing his experience) and a wider field of vision.
Clinton Portis is one of the fastest running backs in the game.
Running back Clinton Portis had a down year but remains one of the fastest and most elusive backs in the league. The Redskins traded for speedy Jets receiver Santana Moss (sending Laveraneus Coles in exchange) and also lost secondary receiver Rod Gardner to the Panthers. Use Santana Moss speed on deep balls and crossing routes to capitalize on his blazing acceleration and speed. Washington Redskins Key Players

The I Form formation is a good choice for teams with two solid running backs because you can easily get them both into the mix with runs or as receivers.
I Form: The I Form formation features a fullback then a running back lined up directly behind the quarterback. The formations name is derived from the backfields resemblance to an "I". Its usually a run formation--the fullback provides a lead block for the running back. But it can be a powerful pass formation as well, especially against aggressive opponents thinking run. For instance, the I Form-Big formation inserts two tight ends and just one receiver. Certainly a good running formation with all that blocking but also a surprising pass formation. In any I Form formation, utilize the running back and fullback (or two running backs if you use the Dual HB package) as options in the flat. If your opponent aggressively blitzes, one of those options is likely to be wide open. Strong I, Weak I: These formations are similar to I-Form, but the fullback is offset either to the strong side (the side of the offensive line with the tight end) or the weak side (the side of the offensive line without the tight end). The uses are similar to the I Form. Its an expected run formation but does offer some pass option sub formations and hitting the two backs in the flat or across the middle can be dangerous against an aggressive defense expecting run. Far, Near: These formations are similar to Strong and Weak, but the fullback and running back are positioned close to one other behind the quarterback. Look for these formations in Detroits and Seattles playbook among others (including the West Coast playbook). Split Backs: This is another two-back set but the two backs are lined up along the same line in a split formation. Both backs are just offset from the quarterback. It holds similar advantages and disadvantages to the other two back sets. Its a decent run formation (though the I Form, Strong, and Weak seem to be consistently better in Madden for running the ball) and is a solid pass formation when you work the backs into the patterns
(particularly for strong receiving running backs, such as San Diego or Kansas City). Full House: The full house formation includes three backs in the backfield: one full back and two running backs. The position of the backs resembles a cross between the I Form and the Strong or Weak formation. Its another strong run formation that provides several options. You can hand off to the primary back, the secondary back, the full back, or use it as a passing formation and send three backs into the pattern. The dual HB package moves the secondary running back behind the quarterback; the spell HB package moves the secondary running back to the primarys position and uses a tight end in the full backs spot. Jumbo-T: The "run heavy" playbook includes the Jumbo-T, which resembles the full house formation with multiple backs (two running backs, one fullback) behind the quarterback. Like full house, it allows for several run options and can be effective in passing plays with effective back and tight end routes.

The Singleback formation is diverse with plenty of pass and run options.
Singleback: The singleback formation is extremely varied. In fact, some of the sub formations dont even include a back behind the quarterback. Most, though, feature a single running back and a set of receivers, tight ends, or a mixture of both. Using the sets with a running back, three receivers, and a tight end can be unpredictable and pose match-up problems. If the defense calls nickel, then you have the advantage in the running game. If the defense calls 4-3 or 3-4, then you could have an advantage in the passing game. Shotgun: The shotgun formation is a typical passing formation because it allows extra time for the quarterback to read the defense and hit the open receiver before the rush closes in. Its certainly possible and often effective to run out of the shotgun formation as well.
The following table covers each Madden 06 NFL teams playbook and the included offensive
formations and sub formations.
TEAM PLAYBOOK MADDEN 06 OFFENSIVE FORMATIONS I-Form-Big, I-Form-Normal, I-Form-Twin-WR, Shotgun-2RB 3WR, Shotgun-4WR, Shotgun-Normal Offset Wk, Shotgun-Slot Strg HB Wk, Shotgun-Slot Strong, Singleback4WR, Singleback-Big, Singleback-Big 3TE, Singleback-Big Twin WR, Singleback-Normal, Singleback- Normal Slot, Singleback-Slot Strong, Singleback-Trips Bunch, SinglebackTwin TE WR, Strong I-Normal, Strong I-Normal Flex I-Form-Normal, I-Form-Tight Twins, I-Form-Twin WR, Shotgun-5WR, Shotgun-Normal, Shotgun-Slot Strong, Singleback-4WR Falcon, Singleback-Big, Singleback-Big Twin WR, Singleback-Normal, Singleback-Slot Strong, Singleback-Trips TE, Singleback-Twin TE WR, Strong I-Big Tight, Strong I-Normal, Strong I-Twin TE, Strong I-Twin WR, Weak INormal, Weak I-Twin WR I-Form-3WR, I-Form-Big, I-Form-Normal, I-Form-Twin TE, I-Form-Twin WR, Shotgun4WR, Shotgun-Normal, Shotgun-Slot Strong, Singleback-4WR Spread, Singleback-Big, Singleback-Big 3TE, Singleback-Normal, Singleback-Slot Strong, Singleback-Trips Bunch, Singleback-Twin TE, Singleback-Twin TE WR, Strong I-Normal, Strong I-Twin TE, Strong I-Twin WR, Weak I-Normal, Weak I-Twin TE I-Form-Big, I-Form-Close, I-Form-Normal, Shotgun-2RB 3WR, Shotgun-4WR, Shotgun5WR, Shotgun-Trips, Shotgun-Trips Bunch, Singleback-Big, Singleback-Big 3TE, Singleback-Big Twin WR, Singleback-Normal Slot, Singleback-Slot Strong, SinglebackTrips Bunch, Singleback-Twin TE, Strong I-3WR, Strong I-Jumbo, Strong I-Normal, Weak I-Normal, Weak I-Twin WR Full House-Philly, Shotgun-4WR Spread, Shotgun-5WR Tight, Shotgun-Empty TE Flip, Shotgun-Empty Trey Stack, Singleback-4WR, Singleback-Big, Singleback-Big Wing, Singleback-Empty 5WR, Singleback-Normal Slot, Singleback-Panther Trips, SinglebackSlot Strong, Singleback-Trips WR, Singleback-Twin TE WR, Split Backs-3WR, Split BacksBig, Strong I-H Pro, Strong I-H TE Flip, Strong I-H Twin TE, Strong I-H Twins, Weak I-H Pro, Weak I-H Twin TE, Weak I-H Twins, Weak I-H Wing TE I-Form-3WR, I-Form-Big, I-Form-Normal, I-Form-Twin WR, Shotgun-2RB 3WR, Shotgun4WR, Shotgun-Normal, Singleback-4WR Spread, Singleback-Big, Singleback-Empty 5WR, Singleback-Normal Slot, Singleback-Trey Option, Singleback-Trips Bunch, SinglebackTwin TE, Split Backs-3WR, Split Backs-Normal, Strong I-3WR, Strong I-Jumbo, Strong INormal, Weak I-Normal, Weak I-Twin WR I-Form-Normal, I-Form-Twin WR, Shotgun-2RB 3WR, Shotgun-Normal, Shotgun-Trips, Singleback-4WR Flex, Singleback-Big Wing, Singleback-Normal, Singleback-Slot Strong, Singleback-Tight Slots, Singleback-Trips Bunch, Singleback-Trips WR, Singleback-Twin TE, Split Backs-3WR, Split Backs-Normal, Strong I-3WR, Strong I-Normal, Strong I-Twin WR, Weak I-Close, Weak I-Twin WR Full House-Normal Wide, I-Form-Close, I-Form-Normal, I-Form-Twin WR, Shotgun-2RB 4WR, Shotgun-4WR, Singleback-4WR Flex, Singleback-Big Twin WR, Singleback-Empty 5WR, Singleback-Normal Slot, Singleback-Slot Strong, Singleback-Trey Open, SinglebackTrips Bunch, Singleback-Twin TE WR, Split Backs-3WR, Strong I-Normal, Strong I-Twin TE, Weak I-3WR, Weak I-Normal Full House-Normal Wide, I-Form-Big, I-Form-Close, I-Form-Normal, I-Form-Twin WR, Shotgun-2RB 3WR, Shotgun-4WR, Singleback-4WR, Singleback-Empty 5 WR, SinglebackNormal Slot, Singleback-Slot Strong, Singleback-Trey Open, Singleback-Trips Bunch, Singleback-Twin TE, Split Backs-3WR, Strong I-Normal, Strong I-Twin TE, Weak INormal, Weak I-Twin WR

Precision passing isnt technically a new feature but its a focus in Madden 06. Precision passing allows you to place the ball ahead of a receiver or behind a receiver when hes under tight coverage from a defender. Use the left-analog stick or the D-pad to place the ball. On a fly pattern (the receiver goes deep essentially in a straight line), press the stick or pad up to lead the receiver. On a crossing pattern or out pattern, press the stick or pad in the direction away from the defender and toward the pattern. Its best used in man-to-man coverage. If a defender is waiting in a zone defense, your precision pass may end up in the defenders hands. Use precision pass to keep the ball away from pursuing defenders. From the Playcall to the Catch The following tips provide passing strategy from the playcall to the presnap read to throwing the ball and finally the catch.
Mix up your play-calling, especially up against human opponents. Dont always pass from shotgun, multi-receiver formations. Call an expected run formation (such as a multi-tight end set or one with a couple running backs) then call a passing play. Its much tougher to complete passes when the defense expects a pass. Use play-action passes (indicated by PA in the play-call screen) to simulate a run play. This can catch computer defenders off guard and open up the passing lanes for your receivers. As you approach the line of scrimmage, take note of how the defenders adjust to the play. If a safety moves up against one of your wide receivers then hes in double-coverage. If a safety moves up to the defensive line, then hes on a blitz. Adjust your primary receiver at this point or even call an audible or hot route to take advantage of the defenses movements. You can also use motion to detect if the defense is in man-to-man or zone. If the defender follows the receiver, its man-to-man. Good routes against man coverage are hooks, crosses, and outs; good routes against zone are deep fades.
Slide the offensive lines protection for rollout passes, to defend against blitzing, or even on running plays.
Use slide protection to shift the linemen in a particular direction or even to spread out or pinch the middle of the line. You can use slide protection to help stuff blitzing defenders or to aid in your quarterbacks rollout. At the snap of the ball, watch how the defenders react to your receivers. If the safeties retreat, theyre in zone coverage. If linebackers move toward a receiver or running back, theyre in man; if the linebackers back off or go side to side theyre in zone. Your goal is to find a free passing lane; this means finding an open lane for you to throw the ball without a defenders obstruction. Any defender in the lane could leap and intercept the ball. This isnt always the case but its best to throw through empty lanes for the highest chance of success. Single-coverage is always your best option. The likelihood of a catch is always greater when theres only one defender on the ball. This is especially true if youre trying to test the defense deep. Other success factors include the position of your receiver in relation to the defender. If your receiver is closer to the quarterback than the defender, the likelihood of a catch is greater. Try to exploit match-ups. Cornerbacks are the best defenders against wide receivers. But if you can get a safety or, better, a linebacker lined up against a wide receiver then you have the advantage. Take note of how the defenders are lined up against your formation and look to hit the receiver that offers the greatest advantage in the match-up.

Read the defense at the line and adjust the direction of the running play using playmaker control.
At the line of scrimmage, observe how the defenders are adjusting at the line. Have the linebackers shifted left or right or pinched the middle? Has a safety crept up to the line of scrimmage and preparing to blitz? Use the playmaker control to switch the direction of the called run play if the other side has opened up. Keep in mind, though, that sometimes its useful to run at defenders such as a blitzing safety. If you can get around him, the gain could be huge. You can also use motion to shift defenders to another side of the field or to even add another blocker to your inside run play. Call a receiver in motion then hike the ball when the receiver reaches your running lane. After the Snap At the snap of the ball, dont immediately jam on the sprint button and press into the line. Its often best to follow the running play as designed. Your blockers are opening a specific hole for your running back; your goal is to hit that hole and sprint through into the linebackers or secondary. Naturally the play could break down. Observe how the blocking is holding up and adjust to another direction if necessary. Keep your back moving north and south rather than east and west so youre gaining positive yardage. Practice the special move buttons, such as spin, stiff arm, and juke. All of these should be used to pick up an extra couple yards or even create a big gain. The spin isnt as ber-powerful as it is in NCAA 06. Utilize stiff arm for running over defenders, particularly weak tackling defenders like cornerbacks. Perform a juke move to dodge an incoming defender. You should also use juke to pop through a hole. For instance, you sprint toward a hole in the line and its collapsing along the
left side. As you enter the hole, perform a juke to the right to squeeze through the hole.
Plow through defenders with the new truck stick.but overuse can lead to fumbles.
Madden 06 adds the "truck stick," primarily used for the running back position. Use the rightanalog stick to administer a "big hit" on offense. When effective, the truck stick can pancake a would-be tackler. Obviously this is most potent for running backs with a high break tackle rating. Time the truck stick just as you hit the approaching defender. Careful, however, because it seems the truck stick makes your ball carrier more susceptible to a fumble. Top Ranked Running Backs The following chart reveals the top rated running backs in Madden 06.
PLAYER Shaun Alexander Edgerrin James Curtis Martin Priest Holmes Jamal Lewis Corey Dillon Deuce McAllister Clinton Portis Ahman Green TEAM Seattle Seahawks Indianapolis Colts New York Jets Kansas City Chiefs Baltimore Ravens New Orleans Saints Green Bay Packers OVR SPD ACC AGI CTH BTK CAR 84 75

LaDainian Tomlinson San Diego Chargers
New England Patriots 93 Washington Redskins 92
Tiki Barber Willis McGahee
New York Giants Buffalo Bills
Top Ranked Fullbacks The following chart reveals the top rated fullbacks in Madden 06.
PLAYER Fred Beasley Matt Strong Jim Kleinsasser Lorenzo Neal Mike Alstott TEAM OVR SPD PBK RBK BTK CTH CAR 70 74
Tony Richardson Kansas City Chiefs Seattle Seahawks Minnesota Vikings Tampa Bay Bucs

San Francisco 49ers 96

San Diego Chargers 92
Top Ranked Offensive Linemen The following chart reveals the top rated offensive linemen in Madden 06.
PLAYER Jonathan Ogden Walter Jones Alan Faneca Kevin Mawae Olin Kreutz Will Shields Orlando Pace Matt Birk Tra Thomas Willie Roaf Tom Nalen Marco Rivera Willie Anderson TEAM Baltimore Ravens Seattle Seahawks New York Jets Chicago Bears Kansas City Chiefs St. Louis Rams Minnesota Vikings Kansas City Chiefs Denver Broncos Dallas Cowboys Cincinnati Bengals POSITION OVR ACC AGI PBK RBK STR AWR LT LT C C RG LT C LT LG C RG RT 94 96

Pittsburgh Steelers LG

Philadelphia Eagles LT
Steve Hutchinson Seattle Seahawks

Chapter 5 - Defense

Last years Madden focused on defense and naturally many of the awesome new features have been carried over into Madden 06. This section provides statistics on the best team defenses and star players, covers new formations and packages, provides an overview of various shifts and adjustments, and offers tips on coaching a stifling defense.

Top Ranked Defenses

The following chart reveals the top rated defenses based on overall rating in Madden 06.
TEAM New England Patriots Pittsburgh Steelers Buffalo Bills Philadelphia Eagles Baltimore Ravens Carolina Panthers Washington Redskins New York Jets Jacksonville Jaguars CONFERENCE AND DIVISION DEFENSE RATING AFC East AFC North AFC East NFC East AFC North NFC South NFC East AFC East AFC South 86 85

Worst Ranked Defenses

This chart reveals the worst ranked defenses based on overall rating in Madden 06.
TEAM Oakland Raiders Tennessee Titans Indianapolis Colts Cleveland Browns Green Bay Packers Kansas City Chiefs St. Louis Rams Detroit Lions CONFERENCE AND DIVISION DEFENSE RATING AFC West AFC South AFC South AFC North NFC North AFC West NFC West NFC North
New Orleans Saints NFC South
San Francisco 49ers NFC West

Highlight player then move right analog stick down.

Quarterback Contain

For example instruct outside linebackers to Highlight player then move contain the quarterback. Most important right analog stick down twice. against fast quarterbacks such as Vick or Culpepper. Highlight player then move right analog stick left. A player in QB Spy coverage follows the quarterbacks movements along the line of scrimmage. Its another means of defending against the quarterback scramble.

Quarterback Spy Coverage

Flat Zone
Highlight player then move right analog stick right.
Order a defender into a wider, but flatter zone in a specific area. Useful against an offense abusing crossing or out routes. Press twice for curl zone.

Managing your Defense

The following list provides some general strategies for managing an effective defense.
Interception returns for touchdowns are rather easy to accomplish given a couple factors, primarily if a defensive back makes the interception rather than a slower linebacker. If you intercept a pass on defense, head straight for the out of bounds line but obviously dont go out of bounds. Going straight to the outside will help you avoid the tacklers hanging around the middle of the field. Once youre to the outside, head straight for the end zone. The computer controlled offensive players arent adept at taking the best angle to cut off your interception return. Once youre past the faster offensive players, its likely a touchdown.
Note the offenses personnel before selecting your defense. You dont want to be stuck in 3-4 against 5 wide receivers.
Dont call your defense immediately. Wait until you read the offensive personnel so you can decide best how to counter what the offense is going to put onto the field. If you call defenses quickly, an opponent can exploit this by sending out 5 WRs against your 3-4 defense that you keep calling immediately. Obviously even if you attempt to call the perfect counter defense, an unpredictable offense
can still keep you on your toes by running out of expected pass formations and passing out of expected run formations. Simply try and make your play calls based on your opponents tendencies. If he runs predominantly up the middle with the occasional pass, call a zone defense with a linebacker blitz to the inside to help plug up your opponents expected running lanes. Know your defensive personnel. Star cornerbacks like Champ Bailey on the Denver Broncos or Ty Law on the New York Jets have the speed and awareness to play man-to-man coverage against the games better receivers. Weaker defenders can be used in zone because there are other defenders in the area to provide assistance.