Since I bought my 360 I have been excited for NCAA. The degree of control and power the system offers just begs to be put to use in an NCAA game. The game controls so tight and realistically, and it's all I could have asked for. I'm going to focus on the defensive side of the ball and the way the 360 has been utilized to really give us total control of the defense.

I've always been one to use my linebackers in football games, and I've started out playing '08 the same way. I feel it gives me the best chance to be involved in the play. But I also feel the new tackling features have helped to give every player on the field a chance. I've been able to really test out the new Hitstick 2.0 and it's a great feature. In the past I would often get into a one on one situation between a running back and defensive back, and really have no chance. In '08 we're now able to use the Hitstick to take out the legs of bigger backs. I've struggled so far to adjust to the high hit on the hit stick. I"m used to moving the stick towards the player I want to hit, and having to move the stick away crosses me up at time. I'm sure with time I'll be able to adjust.

Another great new addition is the Gang Tackling engine. Plays now finish as they should, with a pile, or at least a few players getting involved in the action. Player don't give up on plays either. You may see a defensive end reach out for a back and slow him down, then use his reach to finish the tackle with some help. The only bad thing I've experienced with the gang tackling is distractions. I find myself watching how the players move and react to the tackle, and take my mind off the game. The mid-air collisions also look great and really change the game. No longer can you opponent go up fearlessly over the middle and pull the ball in. Now the receiver pays the toll for going over the middle.

I'm also a big fan of EA moving the strip button to the face of the controller. Pulling the trigger in desperation in the older games just felt unnatural. Now if I need to make a quick strip the button is right there.

After playing NCAA '08 all day, I have to say I'm pretty impressed with the way the defense controls. I've always loved playing on the defensive side of the ball, and all of the new additions make it even more of a blast this year.