Division: NFC West 2003 Record: 7-9 2003 Offensive Stats: 355.4 yards gained per game (5th overall) 2003 Defensive Stats: 308.0 yards allowed per game (13th overall)
Key Players:
The 2004 San Francisco 49ers bear little resemblance to the 2003 Niners. It was like an off season fire sale. The 49ers lost their starting quarterback, starting running back, and both starting receivers. Kevan Barlow started at running back late in the season and proved he deserved the position. He's one of the best players on the team (though certainly not rated as an elite back) with high break tackle ability. Utilize highly rated Fred Beasley to open up holes.
Division: NFC West 2003 Record: 10-6 2003 Offensive Stats: 351.7 yards gained per game (6th overall) 2003 Defensive Stats: 327.4 yards allowed per game (19th overall)
The Seattle Seahawks should enter 2004 as one of the favorites in the NFC. Matt Hasselbeck has come into his own over the last season and a half and should be considered one of the top quarterbacks in the league. Shaun Alexander is one of the best all-around running backs in the game--potent acceleration to combine with high break tackle ability. Run behind strong offensive lineman Walter Jones at left tackle.
Darrell Jackson and Koren Robinson present two solid targets at receiver. Plus Bobby Engram is solid in three-receiver sets. Utilize a lot of singleback, three-receiver sets for both run and pass situations to keep defenses on guard.
Division: NFC West 2003 Record: 12-4 2003 Offensive Stats: 341.1 yards gained per game (9th overall) 2003 Defensive Stats: 315.8 yards allowed per game (16th overall)
The St. Louis Rams still have one of the most explosive offenses in the game. Bulger is rated pretty well and shouldn't have a problem dishing out the rock to the Rams' true stars: Marshall Faulk, Torry Holt, and Issac Bruce. These are your playmakers. Any of their Madden ratings could put them in a starting position on any other team. Play a wide open offense and spread the ball around to your big stars. Both Holt and Bruce could beat defenders deep, though Holt definitely has the speed and catching advantage.
Run Faulk behind all-pro left tackle Orlando Pace. Also make sure you use Faulk as a receiver as well. Use hot routes to send him out on every passing play so you have the option if needed. The Rams aren't as strong defensively. Leonard Little is the best on the line while veteran cornerback Aeneas Williams can still stack up against the league's best receivers.
