Even though the midwest is current experiencing a heat wave, the start of fantasy leagues, preseason rankings, and training camps have me excited that football season is finally upon us. And of course, that means the next Madden release is right around the corner. Seems like a perfect time for another ranking! Let’s take a look at the Madden teams I’m most excited to try on the virtual gridiron.

Indianapolis Colts

The Colts have the fifth-best team rating in Madden this year, so their inclusion on this list isn’t surprising. They are one of the most well-rounded teams in the league, which should translate well to Madden. With Andrew Luck at the helm and a fair share of targets to throw to, the Colts are sure to be a popular pick among players this year, myself included.

New England Patriots

If the Colts’ inclusion didn’t surprise you, then neither should the team that’s tied with the Seahawks for the best overall team rating. Sure, this is probably the easiest pick to make, but playing with Brady in Madden reminds me of using Jordan in 2K. And for whatever reason, being able to do so while Brady is still playing means a little more. Throw in Edelman and Gronk and you have one of the most potent offensive weapons in the entire game. They’re sure to be another fan favorite for what feels like the 50th year in a row.

Buffalo Bills

No one is quite sure how Rex Ryan is going to manage his talented, but quarterbackless team. Since everyone’s favorite thing to do is second-guess the decision-makers, the Bills should prove to be an interesting Madden experience as well. If you can use the Bills’ talented defense to keep your opponent in check, you should be able to help virtual E.J. Manuel find his targets.

Carolina Panthers

Do I need another reason besides: “Cam Newton?” I don’t think I do. He’s not quite peak-Vick in video game terms, but then again, who is? Still, his speed and explosiveness make him one of the more exciting quarterbacks to run with in Madden. The Panthers rank right in the middle in terms of overall team rating, but the Panthers will still be a fun team to use.

New Orleans Saints

Sure, the New Orleans Saints of today are hardly the powerhouse they have been in recent years. Luckily for gamers, it typically takes video games a while before putting former juggernauts in their place, and thus, the Saints. They are missing lot of familiar faces, but with Drew Brees and Marques Colston still around, the Saints should still be a blast to use. Just don’t expect to dominate the way you’re used to.

Dallas Cowboys & Detroit Lions

These two are listed together for reasons very near and dear to my Detroit heart. Everyone talks about the controversial incomplete pass call the Cowboys got against the Packers in the playoffs last year, yet everyone conveniently leaves out that the Cowboys were the benefactors of another controversial call the week prior. Both teams are intriguing on their own, and even bear some similarities with sometimes shaky quarterbacks (Stafford & Romo) and two of the best wideouts in the game (Megatron & Dez Bryant). I cannot wait to put both of these teams on the field against each other for a rematch. Hey, if the Lions can’t win a playoff game in real life, some Madden redemption is the next best thing.