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Friday, July 12, 2013


There's been a good deal of news about NHL 14 over the last few days, with some new features announced as well some old ones being fleshed out.

Let's get to it, shall we?

NHL '94 Anniversary Mode

As they had hinted at for several months now, EA announced a special mode in NHL 14 that pays homage to the 20th anniversary of NHL '94. Widely considered to be the best "retro" entry in the series -- although, I think I could make a case for a couple of other years as well -- NHL '94 had a simplicity of gameplay and presentation which resonated with gamers at the time, and it still does today.


The mode in question will allow you play with an NHL '94 style of presentation (in the current-gen engine), featuring blue ice, star indicators, old-school organ music and simplified controls (which have been in the game for a few years now). Curiously, the reveal trailer also emphasizes no penalties, which is a strange, because turning them off was just an option in the older games. I would hope that you could play with them on if you wanted.

Click here to watch TSN's "Cabbie" take on Martin Brodeur in the NHL '94 mode.

This is certainly a fun diversion to include in this year's game, but it's hard to get that excited about it when it's just some retro presentation overlay. The press release or trailer didn't specify, but it would be neat if the sliders in the game tried to mirror the NHL '94 action as much as possible, as that would create some kind of distinct feel. From what I can tell in the above footage, the mode just looks like normal NHL 13 or NHL 14 with the same announcers, score overlays and general gameplay. Not exactly showing all that much creativity, honestly.

I also agree with some commenters that EA's time might've been better spent elsewhere, but then again, this mode probably was cooked up fairly easily and is just another way to enjoy the game. To that end, I think it's a decent addition, even if it really isn't all that substantive.

Read the press release here.

Fighting Gameplay Video

For those that haven't seen the fight engine yet, the above trailer for the NHL '94 mode includes a few clips of in-game fighting, but there was also a video on TSN (up in Canada) showing Martin Brodeur and host "Cabbie" going toe-to-toe in some NHL 14 fights.

Watch the clip here.

I've talked about NHL 14's fighting before in my hands-on from E3 2013, but this footage gives you a good sense of what to expect. There's a real chess match with the pushing and pulling, and you sometimes want to go for quicker punches to knock your opponent off balance. A well-timed dodge is key in the fight, though, as I was able to land consecutive bombs when I timed it right.


The new fighting is definitely going to be a crowd-pleaser, and I'm interested to see how the community reacts to it when they get their hands on the game.

Achievements

The achievements for NHL 14 have also been released, and you can view them by going here. Based on the list, we can extrapolate a few things about this year's game. First, there are several achievements around the new EASHL relegation and demotion feature, with teams being rewarded for winning division and league titles as well as being promoted to the next level.

For the Be-A-Pro mode, being dubbed "Live the Life," there are several achievements geared around getting your "likeability" completely full, and this applies to fans, teammates, management and family. Take from that what you will. There is also an achievement for gaining $50 million in the mode, indicating that signing and negotiating contracts will be a focus. Finally, there is an achievement for pre- and post-game interviews, so that should be entertaining.

Some of the new fighting achievements revolve around defending teammates and beating on players when they are in a "pulled down" state. Conversely, there is an award for fighting your way out of the downed state.

NHL 14 Wallpapers

EA has released a series of box cover wallpapers, if you're so inclined.


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Follow me on Twitter @glennwigmore
Blog: Wiggy
Thursday, July 11, 2013
Wednesday, July 10, 2013
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
Remembering Ryan Davis Stuck
05:07 PM - July 9, 2013. Written by Wiggy

On July 3rd, the gaming world lost one of its best orators and advocates, as Ryan Davis passed away at the age of 34. It's definitely not surprising to me how much love, sympathy, disbelief and sadness has been expressed about his passing, as the crew at Giant Bomb have fostered a unique cult of personality that galvanizes its fans by giving a window into the people who make the site what it is. The perils of doing this, it seems, have been made clear, as we feel like a part of the world that they invite us into with their personalized audio and video content. Now, feeling that connection to the site, the community is left with a profound sense of loss.

Personality is an elusive thing in the gaming press, as everyone who writes about the industry now strives to give you their "take" on something as well as purchasing advice or critique. Doing this with the correct amount of tact and humor can be something that is ultimately hard to pin down. For the folks at Giant Bomb, it is a (seemingly) effortless exercise, because there are no sacred cows with them. They completely pull back the curtain, allowing us to know them on such a personal level. Half of the time, their videos almost seem to beckon the user to participate, whether through emotion, like joy or laughter, or through forum/chat interaction.

Ryan Davis embodied this spirit, with a true gift of the gab and a presence to match. It was always a pleasure to watch Ryan converse and improvise while hosting live shows and podcasts, and he could exchange ideas with any guest, serious or silly. He knew how to throttle the conversation between absurd tangent and concise discussion, and it became so natural that a 30-minute discussion wouldn't seem long enough.

I guess the word I would use to describe Ryan is vivid. His persona was just so boisterous and full of life, and you couldn't help but feel good when hearing his infectious laugh. He's certainly had an impact on how I interact with the gaming world, and I credit all of the people at Giant Bomb for carving out something that is truly their own. No one does it like any of you, and no one did it like Ryan.

The interesting thing about the modern internet, though, is that Ryan's legacy can live on in the huge archive of audio, video and text content at Giant Bomb, and I recommend that you check out some of his work, if you haven't had the pleasure.

For his wife, family, colleagues and close friends, I can only imagine the intense emotions they are feeling right now. There will come a day when they can remember Ryan's energy and spirit in a way that enriches them personally without also feeling the severity of his passing. I wish that day for them now.

Thanks for being a force, Ryan — both as a person and in the gaming industry.
Blog: Wiggy
NHL 14: Taking a Look at the Goalie Improvements Stuck
04:14 AM - July 9, 2013. Written by Wiggy

EA has released another trailer for NHL 14, and this video covers one of the lingering areas that has bothered players for the last couple of years: the goalies. My time with the game at E3 gave me a good indication that the goalies were going to animate, move and behave a lot differently, but this trailer seems to emphasize these changes with some concrete examples. As with all of these types of sizzle reels, it will need to be tested out, especially with full online team play, but the changes seem promising.

The first thing addressed in the trailer is that goalies will now react to the game situation and handedness of the shooter. The example used is of Anze Kopitar and Dustin Brown moving in on Jonathan Quick (in a practice scrimmage, obviously), and Quick is beaten on a one-timer when Kopitar is threatening the shot on the forehand. Conversely, he is able to fly over and make the save when Kopitar is holding the puck on the backhand, as the likelihood of him shooting from that position is low. When the pass is made, Quick is cheating over, and he easily stones Brown.



While this change does seem fairly binary, it's nice to see that the shooting situation will at least be taken into account. It's been frustrating in NHL 13 to have human players team up on the shoddy goalie AI and force him into overcommiting on a pass from the wing to the goalie's short side. This change is demonstrated even more with the next example in the trailer, where Drew Doughty eliminates Brown as a passing option, and Kopitar is forced to shoot. Quick realizes that Brown has been shut down, and he focuses all of his effort on stopping Kopitar, which is a great change.



Conversely, an example is shown where Doughty aggressively plays the shooter, but in doing so, Kopitar is able to make the pass over to Brown, who fires it home. Quick does get over, but he isn't able to quite stop the puck in time. I think these are the really difficult situations to balance, as some of these sorts of quick passes in traffic should result in a goal, but the goalie should also be able to stop some of them, especially when he sees the defender transitioning to attack the shooter. It's a tough balance, to be sure, but it's good to see EA thinking about the various situations where goalies have seemed either too powerful or too foolish.

In general, the philosophy of the trailer seems to be that if you can get the goalie moving laterally, his "targeting" of the puck is weakened. The trailer demonstrates this by showing some deep one-timer chances that are able to get past the short side or high above the stick. Honestly, these types of one-timers already go in this year, but if there is some variance based on what the goalie sees and how he reacts, then these situations will be more realistic.

This concept is further fleshed out with goalie screens, which now appear to happen off passes as well as shots. A play is shown where a blueliner uses a two-man screen to feed a puck to the short side of the crease, where the puck is roofed. Quick is able to slide over and lift his arm, but the puck flies over his shoulder. These misdirection plays certainly look great, but I just hope the defensive coverage is good enough to compensate for some of this, as EASHL games can get frustrating when two players find obscure passing lanes to make the goalie jump out of position.



The final pitch of the trailer is that goalies are still capable of making highlight reel saves, but they can be beaten if you make the perfect setup. I think a lot of players this year were rightfully disappointed when their well-constructed plays weren't being rewarded, especially with cross creases and certain screens. If this is addressed in a reasonable way, resulting in a few more goals, I think users will be happy.

Final Thoughts

All of these changes seem pretty good on their face, but since I was able to get some hands-on with the game, I can vouch for several of these changes. Particularly, the goalies definitely steer more pucks to the corner now, and they're much better at finding pucks through traffic, especially since there are many more deflection opportunities. Also, goalies were susceptible to some one-timers, which is nice.

I think it's impossible for the devs to plug every hole on the good ship goalie, but if they remove some of the "faking," where goalies get over too easily, and reign in some of the overcommiting, most users will likely respond favorably. Let's hope these changes stand up to proper testing, including all difficulty levels and online modes.
Blog: Wiggy
Monday, July 8, 2013

Since the playoffs won't appear in this year's game, leg-sweep the BCS every chance you get.

It's the final year of the BCS for real-world fans of college football, but NCAA Football 14 is giving you the chance to relive the thrill of busting the BCS for the entirety of your dynasty.

2012 proved to be a textbook example of what can happen when BCS conference champions don't live up to their billing and are out-ranked by the "little man" in conferences such as the MAC. Northern Illinois may have struggled to keep up with the Seminoles in the Orange Bowl, but the leadership shown by the likes of Boise State and TCU prove it can be done and many are in line trying to emulate.

No longer is it adequate to simply make a BCS bowl. The goal is to win and upset the cart while laying a claim for inclusion in the conference reshuffling that seems to churn on a yearly basis.

If you're someone who truly hopes to build a legacy in Dynasty Mode from the ground up, here are twelve intriguing choices for this year's edition of NCAA Football.


1. Fresno State Bulldogs
The top dogs in the Mountain West won nine games last year and return 19 starters. QB Derek Carr was the conference OPOY and the schedule difficulty ranks in at a soft #107 out of 126 teams nationally.

2. Tulsa Golden Hurricane
Eleven wins last year make this a sexy pick for instant success in Conference USA. They have a relatively stingy slate of games considering their conference but run an exciting two-back spread option attack, resembling a poor-man's Oregon.

3. Marshall Thundering Herd
QB Rakeem Cato is one of fifteen returning starters for what could be a surprise team out of C-USA considering a strength-of-schedule (S.O.S.) rank of #111.

4. Northern Illinois Huskies
After last year's BCS bowl appearance -- and the fact that dual-threat QB Jordan Lynch returns -- this will be one of the worst kept secrets among the busters. Trouncing through the MAC shouldn't be a problem as the Huskies face the 3rd easiest schedule in the entire nation.

5. Bowling Green Falcons
Instead of taking the obvious choice in No. Illinois, a side-step in the MAC could be a run with B.G. They return an incredible 19 starters, won eight games last year, have the nation's 115th toughest schedule, and avoid the Huskies on the regular season lineup.

6. Utah State Aggies
They lost their head coach to Wisconsin, but QB Chuckie Keeton returns with thirteen other starters from an eleven-win season. The Mountain West is no pushover but a repeat performance (or even better) isn't beyond reason.

7. Toledo Rockets
Another MAC team, the Rockets are fueled by their offense which returns nine starters from a nine-win season. Considering their conference affiliation, the 80th ranked schedule is a bit daunting, but if you're into taking chances this is an excellent option.

8. Rice Owls
If all else fails, at least your recruiting home base is the state of Texas. You may not need the extra help in '13 though as nineteen starters come back following a seven-win performance to a solid C-USA team with the #114 schedule in the country.

9. San Diego State Aztecs
Nine wins last year in the Mountain West are accompanied by fifteen returning starters and a schedule (#75) that commands some respect out of a non-AQ team.

10. Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns
With a record of 9-4 last season and thirteen returning starters, this is the Sun Belt's likely champion in 2013.

11. San Jose State Spartans
QB David Fales was 2nd team All-WAC last year and can sling the rock with great proficiency. This squad won eleven games in '12 and faces the 81st ranked schedule in FBS.

12. Georgia State Panthers
They've got the 2nd easiest schedule in the nation and it's their first ever season in the FBS. It's the ultimate dynasty challenge. Can you take the JV team and turn them into national champions?


Which BCS Buster program would be your choice for dynasty mode in NCAA Football 14?
Blog: jmik58

Customize your path to prominence with wide-open scheduling as an Independent.

Taking on the challenge of an Independent has the potential to be a glorious ride or a painful experience of which there is no end. The freedom that comes with scheduling freedom gives the opportunity to build a resume' that is unmatched.

Do you load up with tough teams and hope to conquer the world? Is that worth the risk in case your team falls apart? And can you find enough programs willing to take on a respectable opponent such as yourself, risking their win total?

Regardless of your scheduling philosophy, access to a couple of military academies and their option attacks await as does the most popular of choices in Notre Dame and their far-reaching recruiting power. If you're looking for a project, New Mexico State is a great selection, and then there are the new guys to FBS, the Old Dominion Monarchs.

Whatever philosophy or side story grabs your attention, consider the following on-field elements before taking your chances in the grab-bag of Independents.


Army Black Knights
Offense: Triple Option (3 Backs, 2 WR)
Defense: 4-3

(+) You get to honor the military while running the triple option.
(+) Despite the impact of the academy on personnel turnover, the entire squad returns fifteen starters.
(-) The defense gave up an embarrassing 35 ppg in 2012.
(-) A tough schedule includes Stanford, Wake Forest, and Boston College.

BYU Cougars
Offense: Multiple (HB, FB, 2 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) Speed and Power threats at the halfback position.
(+) Eight starters return to a respectable offensive unit.
(-) Lose their top three defensive linemen.
(-) Only four starters are back from a defense that gave up 14 ppg last year.

Idaho Vandals
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Compete pressure free as the Vandals should be underdogs in every game.
(+) Play at Florida State a week before their contest with rival Florida -- can you catch them looking past you?
(-) A freshman QB hopes to improve on their 16 ppg average from last year.
(-) Only three starters are back on defense after gaving up 42 ppg in '12.

Navy Midshipmen
Offense: Triple Option (3 Backs, 2 WR)
Defense: 3-4

(+) Like Army (military and triple option) but with better talent.
(+) A manageable schedule considering Independent status.
(-) Defensive points per game worsened by almost a touchdown last year.
(-) Limited recruiting opportunities due to academy connection.

New Mexico State Aggies
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) Seven starters return on offense and defense, respectively.
(+) A fun rebuilding project with scheduling freedom.
(-) An average score of 18-40 in 2012.
(-) '13 includes opponents like Texas, Minnesota, and UCLA.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) A fantastic group of offensive linemen and receivers.
(+) Defensive lineman Stephon Tuitt was 2nd Team All-American last year.
(-) Quarterback questions aren't a sign of a national title contender.
(-) Replacing Manti Te'o won't be an easy task at linebacker.

Old Dominion Monarchs
Offense: Spread (HB, 4 WR)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Taylor Heinicke is the best QB among all of the Independent squads.
(+) The schedule features mostly FCS opponents as they transition to the FBS.
(-) Against lesser competition, the defense allowed 30 ppg in '12.
(-) Not eligible for postseason in real life for '13, but how will you play it?


Which Independent program would be your choice for dynasty mode in NCAA Football 14?
Blog: jmik58
NCAA Football 14: Picking A Dynasty Team - AAC 
10:28 AM - July 8, 2013. Written by jmik58

Would an undefeated season by Louisville earn them a spot in the BCS title game?

There have always been legitimate reasons to dislike the BCS system depending on which side of the spectrum you reside. If you're a fan of the little guy, feeling left out was a common theme that resounded for a little over a decade. However, if you're a fan of the powerful BCS conferences, it's disheartening to watch a seemingly mediocre three-way conference champion from the Big East take a spot in a BCS Bowl.

Considering this is the going away party for the BCS (you get to relive it throughout your entire dynasty in NCAA Football 14) what better way to shake up the clubhouse? Step into the old Big East -- now the AAC -- and grab a team fresh to the BCS scene, then walk through a cupcake schedule and cruise into a BCS bowl. The SEC's number three team might be crying foul, but hey, what can you do? You're just playing the same system that played you for so long.

If you're looking to make a journey out of your dynasty experience, the AAC may be a must-stop conference. The lack of competition affords the opportunity to gain recognition in a "BCS conference" on your way to bolstering that resume' for a spot at the big-boy coaching table.

Be careful who you pick though. Consider the following on-field pros and cons before deciding which team to rent for a few years on your way to dynasty glory.


Cincinnati Bearcats
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Great offensive line features a total of 83 career starts.
(+) Linebacker group is one of the best in the conference.
(-) Must replace a 1,000 yard rusher.
(-) The defense is a concern as they lack experience and must develop.

Connecticut Huskies
Offense: Multiple (HB, FB, 2 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) HB Lyle McCombs is poised for a huge year.
(+) Not just a cool name, linebacker Yawin Smallwood brings plenty of skill.
(-) Top two tight ends from last year are gone.
(-) Fielded one of the worst offensive lines in the nation last year.

Houston Cougars
Offense: Multiple (HB, 4 WR)
Defense: 4-3

(+) A pass happy offense will benefit from ten returning starters.
(+) Linebacker Trevon Randle is a talented transfer player from LSU.
(-) Lacking a clear-cut answer at the quarterback position.
(-) Only one starter returns to the defensive line.

Louisville Cardinals
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) QB Teddy Bridgewater was the conference POY in '12 and a Heisman candidate.
(+) Pryor and Smith form an excellent tandem at the safety positions.
(-) A poor offensive line could carry forward to this season.
(-) Even if they go undefeated, do they get a national title shot?

Memphis Tigers
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) HB Brandon Hayes leads an offense filled with eight returning starters.
(+) Johnnie Farms is a stud at nose tackle for a defense that also returns eight.
(-) The defense has allowed over 30 ppg in six of the past seven years.
(-) A porous pass-blocking effort must be corrected in the offensive line.

Rutgers Scarlet Knights
Offense: Pro Set (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Three of the five best offensive linemen in the conference play here.
(+) Merrill and Hamilton have all-conference potential on the defensive line.
(-) Questions at the halfback spot are problematic for a team that likes to run.
(-) Only four starters return on the defensive side.

SMU Mustangs
Offense: Run n' Shoot (HB, 4 WR)
Defense: 3-4

(+) QB Garrett Gilbert is a Texas transfer that should excel in this offense.
(+) If you take the time to learn it, the Run n' Shoot is a potent attack.
(-) The defense won't win many games, leading to high-stakes scoring battles.
(-) Two of the top three have departed from the linebacker corps.

Temple Owls
Offense: Multiple (2 Backs, 2 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Eight starters return on offense and should help shift to a more balanced attack.
(+) LB Tyler Matakevich was the Big East Fr-DPOY in '12.
(-) The loss of big playmakers at halfback makes things tricky on the offense.
(-) Must face a tough non-conference schedule including a matchup with Notre Dame.

UCF Knights
Offense: Single Back (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) QB Blake Bortles earned 2nd Team All-Conference last year.
(+) Features a top-15 pass defense on a yearly basis.
(-) A weak backfield usually means struggles for the running game and win column.
(-) Skill and experience takes a step back among the linebackers in '13.

USF Bulls
Offense: No-Huddle Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Florida transfer Chris Dunkley should shine at wide receiver.
(+) One of the best defensive lines in the AAC.
(-) Lose their top two performers at the halfback position.
(-) A bad pass defense in '12 is compounded by only two returning starters in the secondary.


Which AAC program would be your choice for dynasty mode in NCAA Football 14?
Blog: jmik58
NCAA Football 14: Picking A Dynasty Team - PAC 12 
10:27 AM - July 8, 2013. Written by jmik58

The PAC-12 may challenge the SEC as the conference with the most well-rounded programs in the nation in '13.

The rotation of planet Earth doesn't provide many favors to teams from the PAC-12 in regard to national exposure. When most of the country is already asleep, football squads from the West are performing in prime time. Boxscores and highlights don't always tell the story, but that's how most of us process the football played during our dreams.

But like a summertime foreign language class, the best way to learn something we may never quite appreciate is to totally immerse ourselves in it. To know the PAC-12 is to be in the PAC-12. Are they trying to be the SEC with all of these 3-4 schemes on defense? Or maybe the rest of the nation could learn a thing from them.

Besides the defenses and wide array of offensive styles, you have the flavor-of-the-day aesthetics of the Oregon Ducks. What's more flashy, their uni's or their offense? Then there's the NFL factor of USC followed closely by Stanford. Still not satisfied? Where else can you be a Beaver, Buffalo, or Bear -- or Bruin if you prefer? If you're not quite sure what a Sun Devil is or the significance of a Ute, there's only one way to find out.

Whatever your reason for playing dynasty mode, there's a perfectly good parallel program out west. Cut your bias and allegiances and jump in with the PAC-12, but first take a look at what each squad has to offer on the gridiron.


North Division

California Golden Bears
Offense: Multiple (HB, 4 WR)
Defense: 4-3

(+) New coach and scheme (LA Tech) could mean a wide-open passing attack.
(+) LB Nick Forbes has All-Conference potential.
(-) Only five starters return on offense and a freshman QB will take the lead.
(-) A rough pass defense is hard to overlook in a conference packed with receiver talent.

Oregon Ducks
Offense: Spread (2 HB, 2 WR, TE)
Defense: Multiple 3-4

(+) De'Anthony Thomas (DAT) is electrifying with a 10 ypc average.
(+) DB's Mitchell and Ekpre-Olomu have NFL potential.
(-) QB Marcus Mariota ran the ball 752 times last year, can he stay healthy?
(-) The loss of Michael Clay and Kiko Alonso in the linebacker corps stings.

Oregon State Beavers
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Brandon Cooks is a top-flight receiver for a balanced passing attack.
(+) DE Scott Crichton can cause chaos for opposing QB's.
(-) A majority of defensive linemen lack run-stuffing ability.
(-) Tough end of season schedule, @Arizona State and @Oregon.

Stanford Cardinal
Offense: Multiple Pro Set (2 Backs, 2 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) Yankey and Fleming anchor a monstrous offensive line.
(+) Playmakers fill a defense led by LB's Murphy and Skov.
(-) Lacks experience and proven talent.
(-) Closes out season with games against USC, Cal, and Notre Dame.

Washington Huskies
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) WR Kasen Williams is among ten starters returning on offense.
(+) TE Austin Seferian-Jenkins earned 3rd Team All-American in '12.
(-) Need emergence of playmaker halfback to make team 'elite'.
(-) Start the conference schedule against Stanford, Arizona State, and Oregon State; not a good way to break in the inexperienced secondary.

Washington State Cougars
Offense: Spread (HB, 4 WR)
Defense: 3-4

(+) Free safety Deone Bucannon is the bright spot of the defense.
(+) Only two seniors means there is plenty of room to jump in the rebuilding project.
(-) Speed mismatches versus the conference's elite playmakers.
(-) Talent and experience don't match up against anyone in the PAC-12.

South Division

Arizona Wildcats
Offense: Spread (2 HB, 3 WR)
Defense: 3-3-5

(+) HB Ka'Deem Carey may be the best all-purpose player in the nation.
(+) The entire defense (11 starters) return, led by linebacker Jake Fischer
(-) As much as they pass, the receiver group lacks significant experience.
(-) The defense allowed an ugly 35 ppg the last two years.

Arizona State Sun Devils
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) TE Chris Coyle leads seven returning starters on the offensive side.
(+) Will Sutton anchors one of the top defensive lines in the nation.
(-) The loss of their No. 7 career rusher could hurt the offense.
(-) A difficult schedule is compounded by an October 15 showdown in Arlington against Notre Dame.

Colorado Buffaloes
Offense: Pro Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) WR Paul Richardson could have big numbers with the toughest road game coming at Arizona State.
(+) Nine starters return for a beleaguered defensive unit.
(-) Gave up nearly 46 points per game in 2012.
(-) Opposing quarterbacks completed almost 68% of their passes last year.

UCLA Bruins
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) QB Brett Hundley is solid but should excel considering the high quality of receiving targets at his disposal.
(+) LB Anthony Barr earned 2nd Team All-American last year.
(-) Gave up a whopping 52 sacks last year.
(-) The loss of all four starters in the secondary leaves a lot of question marks.

USC Trojans
Offense: Multiple (HB, 2 WR, 2 TE)
Defense: 3-4 Hybrid (5-2)

(+) Marqise Lee returns after earning the Biletnikoff as the nation's top receiver in 2012.
(+) Beefy OLB Morgan Breslin showcases the unique alignment the Trojans hope will slow down conference running attacks.
(-) A new QB always has its growing pains.
(-) Will the lack of speed at the OLB position hurt the team in coverage?

Utah Utes
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) The top three wide receivers are back from last year.
(+) Honorable mention All-PAC 12 linebacker Brian Blechen demands the respect of opponents.
(-) A dependency on JUCO players at HB is a risky decision without long term advantages.
(-) Defensively the program lacks depth, experience or talent.


Which PAC 12 program would be your choice for dynasty mode in NCAA Football 14?
Blog: jmik58
NCAA Football 14: Picking A Dynasty Team - ACC 
10:25 AM - July 8, 2013. Written by jmik58

Unique offenses and occasional defense leave the door wide open in the ACC.

Taking the reigns of an ACC program might be similar to ordering a 16 oz New York Strip and only getting to eat half of it. What you get to enjoy is certainly great, but you still know it wasn't the whole package.

Some of the most exciting offenses in the nation reside here along with one of the best defenses thanks to Bud Foster's group at Virginia Tech. There's no-huddle passing attacks at Duke, sixty or seventy point outbursts by Clemson, electrifying option attacks in Atlanta, and of course a handful of balanced running attacks. But outside of Florida State and perhaps Virginia Tech (if they find their offense) the complete package of both offense and defense just isn't there.

If you can look past the lack of defense (or amazing offense, if that makes you feel better) the schools of the Atlantic Coast have more to offer as well. The addition of Pitt and Syracuse broaden the northern reach, but it could be the orange and purple Tigers that get you excited. And what other conference can say they are home to a school of possessed church leaders and oxygen deprived devils? Confused yet? Then don't try to figure out the triple option attack of those pesky insects at Georgia Tech.

While it's tempting to ramble on about the rumor that one school's mascot translates to a castrated turkey, instead let's consider some on-field points when choosing a dynasty team from the ACC.


Atlantic Division

Boston College Eagles
Offense: Pro Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) All-ACC WR Alex Amidon highlights eight returning starters on offense.
(+) Equally experienced, the defense only replaces one starter while returning ten.
(-) An underwhelming passing attack puts pressure on an injury-riddled halfback fleet.
(-) A tough schedule will limit how easily the bounce-back season can be.

Clemson Tigers
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) The Boyd to Watkins connection will keep the scoreboard hot in 2013.
(+) Can the Tigers break out with their third straight year of double-digit wins?
(-) The loss of Ellington in the backfield leaves a huge void in the backfield.
(-) One of the least intimidating pass defenses in the ACC.

Florida State Seminoles
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) HB Devonta Freeman should be the face of the 'Noles at season's end.
(+) LB Christian Jones returns from an All-Conference year in '12 to lead the defense.
(-) A freshman at quarterback may be the weak link of the team.
(-) The loss of big-name NFL draft picks on the defensive line will be tough to ignore.

Maryland Terrapins
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) Diggs and Long make an incredible duo at wide receiver.
(+) This could be a big year if the defense solidifies.
(-) Need major help in the running game.
(-) The front seven defensively are inexperienced.

NC State Wolfpack
Offense: Pro Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) A soft schedule gives an opportunity to break in a new scheme offensively.
(+) Lack of a mobile QB may open up chance to get creative from day one.
(-) Only five starters return on offense and defense respectively.
(-) A weak secondary means trouble in the ACC.

Syracuse Orange
Offense: Pro Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) HB Jerome Smith is the hope of the offense.
(+) Dyshawn Davis stands out as a playmaker at linebacker.
(-) The first year in the ACC could be a troubling wake-up call.
(-) Two non-conference games against BCS foes wasn't the smartest idea.

Wake Forest Demon Deacons
Offense: Pro Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) More read option and QB runs equals a more exciting offense.
(+) A strong defense was key the last two times achieving double-digit win seasons.
(-) Can they finally overcome their non-conference struggles?
(-) The defense has allowed over 26 ppg the last four years.

Coastal Division

Duke Blue Devils
Offense: Spread No Huddle (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3 Hybrid ("Devil" OLB/S)

(+) Normally a pass-happy team, QB Anthony Boone provides a read option element.
(+) DB Ross Cockrell was 1st team All-ACC last year.
(-) Can you take advantage of the academic aspect of recruiting at Duke?
(-) The rush defense is pretty bad.

Georgia Tech Yellowjackets
Offense: Multiple Option (3 HB, 2 WR)
Defense: 4-3

(+) If you love to run the triple option with talent, this is the place to be.
(+) The offensive line is very skilled and filled with all upperclassmen.
(-) A new QB could equal some growing pains.
(-) The secondary needs serious help after allowing 230 passing yards a game last year.

Miami (FL) Hurricanes
Offense: Pro Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) HB Duke Johnson was an All-American at kick returner last year.
(+) DE Anthony Chickillo leads a defense jammed full of experience and talent.
(-) The schedule holds the potential for three top-ten opponents.
(-) Defensively they must improve on last year's 30 points per game mark.

North Carolina Tarheels
Offense: Pro Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: Multiple

(+) A switch to the pass produced over 40 points per game in '12.
(+) All-ACC defensive end Kareem Martin returns.
(-) A trip to South Carolina highlights a difficult road schedule.
(-) The top three tacklers exit from last year's squad.

Pittsburgh Panthers
Offense: Pro Style (HB, 2 WR, 2 TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Matt Rotheram has NFL potential on the offensive line.
(+) Eight returning starters on defense are led by lineman Aaron Donald.
(-) The backfield is missing a talented runner to run the rock.
(-) Can the defense maintain their 20 ppg clip in their upgrade to the ACC?

Virginia Cavaliers
Offense: Multiple Pro Set (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Nine returning starters on offense includes future NFL left tackle Morgan Moses.
(+) The entire secondary returns; a huge boost in the point-happy ACC.
(-) Last year's -14 turnover margin is a major concern.
(-) The top two tacklers from 2012 are gone.

Virginia Tech Hokies
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) QB Logan Thomas is versatile, talented, and difficult to bring down.
(+) Antone Exum earned All-ACC honors at DB and joins eight other returning starters on defense.
(-) A lack of proven playmakers on offense isn't a good sign for Thomas.
(-) Usually a top-ten defense, the squad slipped to 18th in scoring defense last year.


Which ACC program would be your choice for dynasty mode in NCAA Football 14?
Blog: jmik58
NCAA Football 14: Picking A Dynasty Team - SEC 
10:23 AM - July 8, 2013. Written by jmik58

The access to talent in the south makes nearly anything possible in the SEC.

If you choose an SEC team for your dynasty there is little question regarding the collateral impact you're inviting into your video-gaming life. It's the conference home to the last six BCS National Champions, a plethora of Heisman recipients, and numerous All-Americans lined up for selection in the next NFL draft.

From power-running games and pass-happy attacks, to offensive and defensive lines with extreme amounts of talent -- and then there is that pesky Manziel kid. The southeastern portion of the United States is loaded with talent so much that the average SEC squad gets the "leftovers" which keep them on par or above much of the rest of the nation. Nowhere else in the country are defenses blessed with a combination of power and speed such that the 3-4 defense is a natural scheme instead of an experimental tactic.

If the talent doesn't draw you in, try on the vibrant blue-and-orange of the Gators or Tigers. Play between the hedges in Athens, in front of 100,000 plus at Rocky Top, watch your head spin as the cowbells ring in Starkville, or bring your ear plugs to the jet-engine roar of Death Valley.

The SEC is the ultimate challenge-within-a-challenge so pick your team with care. Whether style, tradition or talent draws you in, here are some on-field points to consider when picking your dynasty team.


East Division

Florida Gators
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: Multiple

(+) QB Jeff Driskel is poised for a breakout year.
(+) One of the five best secondary groups in the entire nation.
(-) Front seven on defense lacks experience of elite SEC groups.
(-) Lacking maturity which contributed to Sugar Bowl debacle.

Georgia Bulldogs
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) QB Aaron Murray leads one of the nation's most dangerous passing attacks.
(+) Nine returning starters on offense include the best HB group in several years for UGA.
(-) Injuries have a tendency to derail national title hopes in Athens.
(-) Lacking experience on the defensive side.

Kentucky Wildcats
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Improved offense heading in the right direction.
(+) This year's defense has the talent to earn respect in the SEC.
(-) Sub-par offensive line spells trouble.
(-) Head coach Mark Stoops is new enough he likely won't provide on-field boosts for the team.

Missouri Tigers
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Access to places like Kansas City and St. Louis plus their central location makes Mizzou a reasonable target to rebuild quickly through recruiting.
(+) If you want to upend the SEC, what better way than to do it with the new kid from the Midwest.
(-) Lacks talent, depth and realistic hope to compete with the big boys of the conference.
(-) Needs a major overhaul by a master recruiter.

South Carolina Gamecocks
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: Multiple

(+) DE Jadeveon Clowney is the most explosive defender in the nation.
(+) Solid at QB and HB with a stellar TE group and strong offensive line.
(-) Serious questions about dependency of linebackers.
(-) Need to find running game to contend for conference title.

Tennessee Volunteers
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Butch Jones will likely bring back an emphasis on the running game.
(+) A solid middle-of-the-pack rebuilding project in the nation's top conference.
(-) The loss of three WR's to the NFL leaves a gaping hole.
(-) Schedule features a week-three trip to take on the Oregon Ducks.

Vanderbilt Commodores
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Jordan Matthews leads the best wide receiver group in the SEC.
(+) Seeking the rare feat of back-to-back bowl game appearances.
(-) Lucky breaks from 2012 won't mean much inside your console.
(-) Bottom line is they lack overall talent and depth to build on last year's success.

West Division

Alabama Crimson Tide
Offense: Multiple Pro Set (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) QB AJ McCarron is a top-three Heisman contender.
(+) The best players and biggest coaching boosts make this a juggernaut program.
(-) Defensive line lacks experience despite crazy amounts of raw talent.
(-) Not much of a challenge for a dynasty outside of seeing how long you can keep the Crimson Tide's run alive.

Arkansas Razorbacks
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Bret Bielema (Wisconsin) brings the beef with an exhausting run game.
(+) One of most improved defenses in nation if they stay healthy.
(-) Will a focus on power create a gap in speed?
(-) Good luck dealing with Alabama.

Auburn Tigers
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-2-5

(+) Gus Malzahn brings back the same offensive style that Cam Newton rode to a national title.
(+) Will break SEC record if a back eclipses 1,000 rushing yards for 5th straight year.
(-) Wide open offense puts defense on field a lot.
(-) Beating your rival is a tough boost to earn (Alabama).

LSU Tigers
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) QB position is full of diverse options opening up the door for personalized offensive attack.
(+) Deep running attack complimented by an experienced WR corps.
(-) Defensive line lost four players to the NFL.
(-) Tough finish to the year (@Alabama, Texas A&M, Arkansas).

Mississippi Rebels
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-2-5

(+) D-lineman Robert NKemdiche is the nation's top recruit.
(+) Ten starters return on offense while nine come back on the defensive side.
(-) Need a boost on the offensive line.
(-) Must develop running game and find ways to get a back over 1,000 yards.

Mississippi State Bulldogs
Offense: Multiple Pro Set (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Deep and experienced on both sides of the ball.
(+) Best chance at conference record over .500 in over a decade.
(-) Struggles to get the "upset" win.
(-) Completely collapsed last year; questionable mental toughness to survive tough SEC.

Texas A&M Aggies
Offense: Spread (HB, 4 WR)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Heisman winner Johnny Manziel returns to defend his title.
(+) Awesome group at offensive line should free up the running game.
(-) Defensive line lost their top two performers.
(-) Lacking significant experience at linebacker.


Which SEC program would be your choice for dynasty mode in NCAA Football 14?
Blog: jmik58
NCAA Football 14: Picking A Dynasty Team - Big Ten 
10:21 AM - July 8, 2013. Written by jmik58

Despite its image, the Big Ten offers a multitude of offensive styles for dynasty play.

Picking a dynasty team from the Big Ten -- if it mirrors the fandom of real life -- may be less about which team to chose. Instead, the toughest choice may be whether you want to even cross the line of living in the Big Ten at all. It's your grandpa's conference full of conservative styles, but nevertheless it's loaded with what drives college football: Passionate fans.

For proof, look no further than former Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson who is gracing the cover of this year's iteration of NCAA Football thanks to support from Wolverine faithful during the cover-vote contest. Because of history and tradition, the passion and commitment of fans in Big Ten country is on par with any conference in the nation, but the group's on-field performance last year may have provided a little fodder for critics.

But who cares, right? After all, when you're playing in video-game land, we take on the challenge of erasing the shortcomings of reality. If you love a slow-and-go style of play, you've found your place. If you want to shake things up and inject some insanity into the perceived conference of watching paint dry; look no further.

You've got native tribes decked out in orange, a school in Indiana playing with a suggested connection to beer, a school in Iowa whose band plays songs about a lack of beer in heaven, a strange obsession with the mighty gopher -- only the golden kind though -- and an agricultural ode to the ear of corn.

Despite all the ancillary reasons to dive into the Big Ten for non-gameplay purposes, here are some on-field points to consider if you're brave enough to take on one of college football's Midwestern gems.

Leaders Division

Illinois Fighting Illini
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3 Hybrid ("Star" OLB/S)

(+) Senior QB Nathan Scheelhaase leads a run-oriented spread attack with the potential to run around slower B1G defenses.
(+) Linebackers play loose and aggressive while flying all over the field.
(-) Struggling to find the next elite running back to take them back to the top.
(-) Poor defensive line fits a trend within the conference.

Indiana Hoosiers
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Pass-happy attack waiting to explode with 10 starters returning on offense.
(+) Nine starters come back for defense.
(-) Only one winning season in the past 18 years.
(-) Lacking enough talent on defense to make experience have significant clout.

Ohio State Buckeyes
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3 Hybrid ("Leo" DE/OLB)

(+) Read option running emphasis led by league's most talented offense.
(+) QB Braxton Miller is a serious Heisman contender.
(-) Must replace four key pieces on the defensive line this year.
(-) Expectations are high and the pressure may be too much to handle.

Penn State Nittany Lions
Offense: Multiple (HB, 2 WR, 2 TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) If you like throwing to the TE, Penn State would be a great stop for 2013.
(+) The linebackers and secondary are full of solid talent.
(-) Lacks depth due to recent NCAA sanctions.
(-) Are you brave enough to simulate the postseason ban and scholarship shortage?

Purdue Boilermakers
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Run-oriented spread offense opens the door for a speed-filled attack.
(+) Probably the best rebuilding opportunity in the conference.
(-) Eight starters return on defense, but the talent just isn't there.
(-) Any hopes that Purdue has are dashed by what looks to be a difficult schedule.

Wisconsin Badgers
Offense: Pro Set (HB, 2 WR, 2 TE)
Defense: 3-4

(+) As usual, this is one of the best offensive lines in the nation.
(+) New coach Gary Anderson (Utah State) brings the 3-4 defense to the Big Ten.
(-) The defense is extremely inexperienced and could struggle early in the year.
(-) Can the 3-4 excel in the B1G? Is Wisconsin a good fit?

Legends Division

Iowa Hawkeyes
Offense: Pro Set (HB, 2 WR, 2 TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Hawkeye offenses tend to flourish behind stud TE's like C.J. Fiedorowicz.
(+) An experienced defense should equate to a unit full of high awareness.
(-) Those same defenders lack the elite talent needed to win a conference title.
(-) Can you overcome the curse of Iowa's AIRBHG (Angry Iowa Running Back Hating God)?

Michigan Wolverines
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-2-5

(+) One of the strongest defensive lines in the B1G.
(+) Despite the spread look, the Wolverines love to run the ball down your throat.
(-) Offense is stuffed with talented players that lack experience.
(-) Will they fall victim to the glaring gap between a strong offense and weak defense? (Nebraska, 2012)

Michigan State Spartans
Offense: Multiple (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Led by a senior QB and their strongest offensive line in nearly a decade.
(+) Seven returning starters on defense are led by a stellar linebacker corps.
(-) Still a year or two away from peaking?
(-) Tough to recruit in a state obsessed with the Wolverines.

Minnesota Golden Gophers
Offense: Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) One of the better offensive lines in the B1G leads an offense that returns ten starters and loves running the ball.
(+) Also has a top-five Big Ten defensive line.
(-) Pass defense could struggle with four or five serious passing threats on the schedule.
(-) Has been held back by the lack of a serious passing attack on offense.

Nebraska Cornhuskers
Offense: Pro Style/Spread (HB, 3 WR, TE)
Defense: 4-3

(+) QB Taylor Martinez and HB Ameer Abdullah make up perhaps the B1G's scariest offensive duo.
(+) The defense is full of talent.
(-) Unfortunately, the raw skill on defense hasn't been tested or proven itself well as of yet.
(-) Can you solve the problems of the once-vaunted "Black Shirt" defense?

Northwestern Wildcats
Offense: Spread (HB, 4 WR)
Defense: 4-3

(+) Typically a pass-friendly offense, 2012 focused on the run and this year could build off that success.
(+) Depth and talent at nearly every position.
(-) A tough schedule awaits the Wildcats' bid to steal the conference.
(-) Can you stock the cupboard after this year's crop graduates?


Which Big Ten program would be your choice for dynasty mode in NCAA Football 14?
Blog: jmik58
Friday, July 5, 2013
Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Top Sports News for Wednesday, July 3, 2013


QOTD: Do you think Aaron Hernandez built up a sense of invincibility after "getting away" with past criminal activity?

1. Homer pitches no-hitter again.
2. Tebow involved in Hernandez altercation in Florida.
3. Mavs also courting Howard.
4. A-Rod makes debut, goes hitless.
5. Puig as an All-Star? 'Absolute joke'.
6. Will Washington surge in second half to make playoffs?
7. Cross-Sport Power Rankings.
8. Stafford carrying weight of Lions, not a good sign.
9. Before Serena, there was her sister.
10. The lessons of youth hockey.

Share your response to the QOTD and today's links in the comments section below.
Blog: jmik58
Tuesday, July 2, 2013