PLAYERSBOWL
Category: Games

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EAFLMadden.com Radio

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Radio Show tonight

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Trying Live Talk Radio now
Category: Podcast

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The Return
Current mood: tired
Category: Life

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The Halo Effect
Current mood: jubilant
Category: Life

Well, I'm back, haven't had time to update this in a bit, so here goes.

Let's talk EAFL first for foremost.  We started 2 new leagues, EAFL-NCAA and EAFL-PS3.  I dont have a veteran commish to run EAFL-PS3 and I don't have a PS3 yet, so not sure how this is going to work out.  In about 5 days, 32 games played, so not too shabby for a new league with almost no EAFL veterans.  There is a lot of work to do there and frankly, I dont have the time and dont feel comfortable with a new commish, so that's my challenge, not sure where to go with that.

EAFL-NCAA has about 48 games played in the same time period, which again, isn't too shabby, but our EAFL-Europe 360 league has 83 games played during that time and that's usually our slowest league, so we are a bit worried.

I think Halo coming out has really hurt the NCAA league and probably the EAFL-360 league too.  Many guys did not play any league games last week, so we'll see how this week works out.  It is not out of the question that both the PS3 and NCAA leagues get shut down.  Growth is fine, but only if is makes sense.

More leagues also means more issues, or certainly the magnitude of the issues are increased.  The last 10 days have been alot about  a certain member we call the instigator, now he is a subscriber to these blog, so don't be surprised to see a comment.

But in short, he was unhappy about the draft process.  He took it so far as to question my and another commishes integrity.  He even questioned my disconnect issues while being one of my opponents who I had the issues with.  Ironic enough only 2 days later his very integrity came into question.  I don't wish to rehash it, but the evidence against him was clear, just he would not admit his wrong doing.  Being a former champ and respected member, this episode hurt the league.  He has left us and will not be returning until he sincerely admits his wrong doing.  This doesn't make me happy, but it's the way it is.

I was worried about the ripple effect, but I'm pleased that even some of his more aggressive supporters have praised the handling of the issue and realize there was no other way.  So, we move on.

There is another old member who is not around anymore, but I suspect we will talk soon and figure out a way to bring him back, but it will be under the EAFL's terms, not his.  It's funny that guys spend time running my name into the ground, but the strenght of the EAFL organization continues on.  You'd have to join us to understand it, but I'd say it's fairly unique in the Madden community.

Dub C has won his 4th SB and 2nd straight.  He probably didn't get the fanfare he deserved, 2 top contenders didn't finish their season, either could have beat him, or at least added strength to his victory.  But quietly there has been subtle questions about his gameplay.  He is also a subscriber, but this is not an attack, just the truth.  At this point, I have NO reason to think he is using any illegal or questionable tactics in the league.  I just think the underground scuttle butt has taken away from his dominance.  If things work out he'll be move to next gen soon, which would be great.

Bamma has won his 3rd SB and the 1st ever EAFL-360 SB.  He continues to stay at or near the top of his game on Madden, but swears that after the MC, he won't be playing much Madden.

This is a precarious time for the EAFL.

1.  League VETS have split over 3 systems.

2.  Halo and other next gen games provide viable options to Madden.

3.  The adjustment to next gen has prooved to be tougher then expect, as a league.

At Season 23 it's the first time I've felt uncertain about our future. The WVE lasted for 26 seasons and 2 months ago I would have had NO doubt we would pass them easily.  But the events of the past month have me wondering.  We do have a good team of commishes, overall and I'm hoping we can figure out ways to keep the excitement going.

After this season, I myself will probably take a break.  I'm expecting to start a new job in 2 weeks (yeah baby!!!), but this job will keep me very busy, so my time for the EAFL will be limited.

I guess we'll see what hapens...

Currently playing : Tiger Woods PGA Tour 08 Release date: 28 August, 2007

11:40 AM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

~sigh~
Current mood: crappy
Category: Games

The last 24 hours, well, I could have done without all the issues...sometimes, I wonder why I do this, truly.

On Sunday I decided to stay home and watch the Cowboys, they weren't on till 8, so I logged onto AIM at 1:00 and started talking football with some EAFL friends.  Next thing by 1:30 I'm in 5 conversations.  So, I'm like OK, time for a chat.  This chat kept at least 10 and went as high as 17 and lasted unto almost midnight!!

It was fun and it really added to watching the games.  I think it's what separates the EAFL from many other leagues.  Almost family like.

Kevin Everette TE with the Bills almost died Sunday after taking a massive hit to the head.  Today it looks like he might be able to walk again, after it was feared that would never happen.  I pray for him and it really makes you appreciate life just a little more.

The last day or so has been filled with drama and issues.  Due to the nature of the problems, I can't be specific, but it certainly tested the limits of my patience.

I do want to say that many of us in the EAFL are trying to make this league a household name in the Madden community, and while everyone does not share that feeling, no one should detract from that ultimate goal.

I gave up my team as well.  The connection issues were just too much and I was holding back the league.  It really hurt me to do that. I love Madden and like many waited ALL summer for the next game.  To date I've complete a total of 5 games in 3 weeks.  But, the league comes first.  I gave them to youngboom, but I'm skeptical now, but I guess we'll see...if he doesn't play, I'll either take them back or we'll bring up someone from Europe (more likely).

Moving forward, the EAFL has disbanned EAFL-E PS2.  Frankly, it was mismanaged.  I take full responsibility for it failing.  I was clear with my expecations and directions.  You'd think after almost 30 seasons of this I wouldn't be vague, but I was and it failed.  Now, we have a sizable waitint list for EAFL-PS2, which should allow us to keep that league active.

EAFL-PS3 will be starting any day.  I've selected a commissioner and sent out 39 invites.  This is a gamble as we are starting with a new commissioner and I currently do not have a PS3. I'm counting on VETS to be my eyes and ears on this platform.

Also, KoachK and I are going to be partners.  He is starting an NCAA league for the EAFL, called..guess what?  EAFL-NCAA.  He will own and manage it anyway he sees fit and he will use the EAFL and make it part of the EAFL family.  I"m excited about this for the EAFL and should certainly show EA Sports how serious we are about our football leagues.

We "might' even consider an NBA Live 08 league...a bit of a stretch, but in our thoughts...that would be, yup...EABL.  With the potential for 3 games or more, ultimately the name EAFL would have to be only for the NFL like leagues.  I'd see us using a bigger name for our assortment of leagues.

I'm taking some time away from Madden and the EAFL this weekend and I look forward to it.

Currently watching : Tupac - Live at the House of Blues (UMD Mini For PSP) Release date: 01 November, 2005

12:00 AM - 0 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment

NFL Kickoff
Current mood: anxious
Category: Games

For all football fans today is the day we have waited for, for many months.  As Summer leaves the only solice we can now find is football.  Thank God for football!!

As Train says, "Now our lives have meaning again".

It should be a great year...Everyone has high expectations, but not everyone's expectation's will be met.  Look for this blog to not only bring you EAFL business, but NFL business as it pertains to the EAFL and it's loyal NFL fans.

Tonight is the Saints at the Colts.  You can not start the season off with a better match-up.  From what I"ve read there are 13 new starters on the Colts.  Was last year a fluke for the Colts or is Peyton the "new" Tom Brady.

The Saints rode a magical year into the NFC Championship game last yet, was that season a fluke?  Is the 1 utility player in the NFL ready to not only gain yards, but score some points?  Can Colston have a great year now that the league knows what he can do?

The  Colts are home after a SB win, the Saints eager to show they belong, I expect a great game with the Colts winning a thriller 31-28.

Now, on the EAFL.  Looks like I can begin my season now, only 3 weeks too late. I played ranked and unranked with no connection issues, so here's hoping.  I hate losing, so this will be a very hard season for me as my expectations were to be competitive.  A certain legend has offered to lab daily with me to get me ready, so we'll see how that plays out.

Our potential 3rd 360 league is not going to happen.  Lots of deadweight in EAFL-E 360 needed to be cut, thankfully we had the bodies ready to go.  PS2 interest is "slowly" dying out.  My guess is EAFL-E PS2 might now make it to Christmas.

We have more then enough to begin EAFL-PS3, but no commish.  Train, currently EAFL-PS2 commish offered, but doesn't have the game yet.  Memphis would be a great pick, but his schedule doesn't allow.  Shizzzz wants to commish, but he's also a close friend, I know his schedule and lack of visibility wouldn't work.  There is a former commish who owns a PS3.  But, each time I've made him a commish, I've regretted it.  He does good for a week or two, then gets lazy.

So, I'm commish-less for the PS3 league...hopefully I can identify one by Monday or go "commish by committee".

I also started an office pool for picks each week.  Stupid me paid for a 20 slot pool instead of using Yahoo Pickem, which I used before, that allows up to 50 for free.  It was only $10, but still, that was just dumb.  I sometimes get excited about new initiatives for the EAFL and move too quickly, this was one of those times.

We've had a lot of turmoil on the EAFL forums lately.  The EAFL now bans people from the message boards for short periods of time, who continously show questionable behavior.  This is only done after they have been warned to stop.  Some people just have a problem with authority or taking instruction.  One owner kept saying, "I dont see the big deal" when instructed to post in a certain forum.  Even after we spoke extensively via PM, he then went ahead and posted anyway.  Can't get much more blatant then that..so he got his with a 2 day ban from the boards.

PARTICIPATION IN THE EAFL IS PRIVILEDGE NOT A RIGHT.

I love the smack talk as the league is really seeing what I've been saying about "homers", like Bwood, Edmor and even Don.

Loyalty is fine, but when it's blind, you're a homer.  Tiki, Bamma, Train and myself are examples of loyal diehard fans.  But the previously mentioned guys let their loyalty cloud good sound judgement.  As the weeks move on, It will be my pleasure to continue to point this out.

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Growth is good!!
Current mood: creative
Category: Games

I'm fairly frustrated that my connection to the EA servers has been so poor.  I really like this game and feel good about my progress, but I need to play real people and not the CPU...I think I figured out the problem and will play tonight, hopefully I can stay connected.  I do know that I'm not alone, many have had the same issues, but many stay connected, I'm looking to join the latter group.

My expectations for Season 22, the first one for 08, are not lofty, it's really about just learning the game and building a foundation for the future.  I HATE losing, but will gladly take some losses while I learn for the future.  Regardless, 07 was a dreadful year for me, that will not be repeated in 08.

The response on PS2 is better then we expected, so we started another PS2 league.  We had 22 on the waiting list, of course they didn't all respond when invited to the new PS2 league, but regardless, there's enough interest to warrant 2 PS2 leagues for now.

360 started a bit slower, since we already had 2 leagues full when the game came out, sign ups were slow intitally, but now they're pouring in.  I expect a 3rd 360 league during the month of September.

The PS3 sign-ups, slow during the summer, have picked up now.  We should be starting that up in a week or so.

That would give us SIX leagues, unprecedented in EAFL history and a true milestone for all of us.  The goal, as always, has been some sort of affiliation with EA Sports.  Six leagues would certainly be a step toward making that happen, IMHO.

We are also looking into our first money league/tournament.  Many have felt that the EAFL doing a money league would revolutionized the online league business.  When we started our Madden league in 2005, running a "cheese" league was unheard of and frowned upon...now, 3 versions later, "freestyle" leagues are popping up everywhere like McDonalds or should I say, McDowells (Coming to America)

I spend a lot of time checking out other leagues and I am amazed at what guys call a "league" today.  KoachK coined the term "doo-doo leagues" to describe poorly run unprofessional leagues and man, did he hit it right on the head.  The problem is, a bad league hurts everyone.  It turns a potentially good owner into an anti-league person.

I'd really like to see EA Sports renew it's commitment to Madden Leagues.  Back in 2005, they had Premium Pass, an online league hosting service.  Frankly, it left a lot to be desired, but had some features that could be built on today.  Since then we've seen no commitment to leagues from EA Sports.  The spawn game feature on curr gen is the only league friendly feature, and for the better part of 2 versions was loaded with problems and errors.

Now with Next Gen, there is not one league friendly feature.  You can't even get stats emailed too you unless the game is played ranked, which is by default all-pro.  So if you customize your settings and play unranked, no  EA stats in your email.  They didn't even include a tournament feature on Next Gen.

Leagues offer an enviroment for guys to play each other with styles they approve of, as opposed to lobby games which can be hit or miss.  SIM or Freestyle, doesn't matter, it allows for safe, competitive gameplay.  Even guys who are not for the freestyle system, will join the EAFL to prepare for the Madden Challenge!!

I sincerely hope EA Sports recognizes that like the Madden Challenge, well run online leagues enhance the Madden experience.

Currently reading : My Life By Bill Clinton Release date: 31 May, 2005

11:29 AM - 2 Comments - 4 Kudos - Add Comment

Madden 08
Current mood: good
Category: Games

Well, I'm back...lot's to say.

First and foremost Madden 08 is out and I'll give my full review shortly, but first the EAFL.

All 3 leagues are full and requests to join are flooding in daily.  I'm considering a 2nd league for the PS2, last count had 15 on the waiting list, another few days we might have enough for a full 2nd league.  I never thought the PS2 would continue to be this popular.

The EAFL tries to meet the demand of the Madden community, so if the need is there, we'll add another league.

Before I continue, a brief comment about the EA Boards and some personal attacks I received recently.  Someone on the EA Boards decided it would be funny to discuss my age (40) and other things about me on the EA boards.  This turned into an attack of "Big Mac" proportions, including an imposted Tfloyd69 and an old nemesid from the boards "Hova", who is now a co-commish in a league run by two former EAFL members.

Frankly, I'm really not very big in the Madden world...I run a great league and have gotten to know some great people.  I've many enemies, but far more friends.  Madden is a hobby to me, breaks the routine we all know called life.  To think that so many people jumped on the bandwagon to bash me was really flattering.  I loved it...brings more attention to the EAFL.  Any attention is good attention (marketing 101).  One of the best things about it was the way many in my league jumped to my defense.  Some of the same guys who give me a hard time on our own forums (forums.EAFLMadden.com) were defending me these threads.  It was very cool.

I've also realized that my blunt, direct style rubs people the wrong way.  Some are thin skinned and take things personal.  I sometimes do forget that I could be many of these "kids" fathers and probably need to tone down a bit.  I am who I am, but wil consider it.  My style may not fit what some of the other fansites have done, and if we're ever going to hit the big time, I guess I'll try to adjust, key word TRY.

On to Madden.  From what I hear the PS2 game is the same game. I'm thankful I didn't spend $50 to get it.  I sucked at 07 and would probably suck at 08 on PS2.

The 360 game is another world.  Here's my review.

From the beginning you know it's a different Madden.  HD gaming on the 360 is unreal.  Madden plays at 1080i on 360, vs 720p on the PS3.  After watchig a video on IGN.com, there is a different, not a huge one, but noticeable.  The opening screens and menus are different and take some time to get used to.

Simple tasks like challenging friends to games is very different, you actually have to create a session and then go "invitation" to invite a friend to play.  Not a big deal, but very different.  The graphics are great!!  Superstar players finally look like themselves.  Donovan McNabb actually looks like the McNabb we all saw 18 months ago when the first Next Gen preview footage was released.  Not all players are their real life look alikes, but enough are to add more realism to the game.

The gameplay is smooth and fluid.  The video I saw really demonstrates that the frame rate does make a difference between 360 and PS3.

On offense, if you try your curr gen tactics, you'll be in for a long year.  Vision cone is now optional, but you do get an accuracy boost if you use it, user catching is hit or miss.  The RB's are juiced up, one on one, you'll be hard pressed to make the tackle, but gang tackling is great.  The highlight stick works better then 07 curr gen, maybe too good.

Weapons are really the key...get to know them, understand them and how to use them.  The computer's animation on spectacular catch receiving emulates jet-packing from Madden 05.  You can user jet-pack, but the CPU does it so good, you may choose not too.  On lessor receivers, user catching may be the only way to integrate them into the offense.  One thing that annoyed me is not really being able to tell if I user'd or not.  For 07, it shouts USER PICK or USER CATCH on the screen, but for 08 on the 360, I've been told it shows on the bottom, but haven't seen it yet, even on user catches I know I made.

The offensive live blocks MUCH better then current gen, but the problem is no line shifting to counter the heat, and there's plenty of it.  A smart o-line will help, but with the shifting lacking, you're almost merciless to a good blitz.  Quick passing is hit or miss, more then likely, you should abandon this offensive gameplan.  The DB's will jump routes and take it to the house.

On defense it really feels like Madden 05 again.  The HEAT IS ON (Glen Frey) and back with a vengence.  Many call it "nanos" which were huge in Madden 05.  I just call is heat.  Maybe I'll steal Bert Ingley's phrase, "enhanced blitzed".  I dont' think of them as nano's simply because they are not the same as 05.  Now mind you it's only day 3 of Madden, so my view can change.

Anyway, right now, the defense rules in this game. The DB's are smarter and blitzing is fast and furious.  Some of the 07 playmakering is not there, but honestly, I don't think you need it..the defense is that good.

One great new feature is "receiver spotlight".  It allows you to play special attention to a receiver who might be hurting you.  It could leave other's open, but it's a cool tool to use.  A weapon of choice for me is the "Smart QB", it allows you to read the defense if your opponent likes to run the same defense over and over (Koach K in 07), which is very handy.  On defense if you have a smart LB, you can read the offense the same way.

On offense you can also highlight all the players on the field to show who has what weapons. This allows you to view mismatches.  One thing they've added on offense I don't like is the "green" route. This puts a man in motion when you snap the ball, the the CPU automatically snaps it.  I'm not sure the point of this, we were doing this fne on our own.

My only real criticism of the 360 game is the O-line shifting and or random blitz angles...The "heat" will make this a very interesting year in the EAFL.

Gamecast and EASportsworld is very cool.  Gamecast allows you to "watch" a game similar to ESPN or NFL.com, minus the playcalling.  But it only works on ranked games.  This version does not have hardcore ranked, so we're going unranked all-madden, back to our roots.  EASportsworld is a community of online ballas for all the EA sports titles.  I'll talk more about it soon, but it has a blog section, so I might be moving there, we'll see.

Overall I rate the game an 8 out of 10.  If you want a current gen game on sterooids, this is not it.  If you want a completely new game and are tired of playing Madden 06...the 360 Madden 08 game is for you.

Currently playing : Madden NFL 08 Release date: 14 August, 2007

7:19 AM - 1 Comments - 0 Kudos - Add Comment