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NFL Challenge Guide

by StreetMaster

Table of contents: 
NFL Challenge
Ladder Mode
How to create your team.
Credit: Ign.com 









NFL Challenge: 


NFC Challenge: NFC West 
Challenge 1
Goal: Score 1st against the Cardinals.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Long Sleeve Shirt 4
This one's pretty easy, so long as you don't cough up the ball. Your team has minimal skills so it's best to avoid showboating unless you are in the open field. Excessive laterals isn't the best idea either, since the majority of your team can't run with the ball. If you see you have a clear toss to another player, go for the lateral. Stick with running three of the four downs, with one pass mixed in to keep the defense honest. Doesn't matter how you score, just that you do it first. Since your defense is subpar at the start, turning over the ball is a bad, bad idea. 
Challenge 2
Goal: On your first drive, get a 1st down or score against the 49ers.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Team Logo - The Tigers
Surprisingly, this is even easier than Challenge 1. All you need is a first down on your initial drive. Use the running game, sweeping left of right and you should have this within three downs. If you get stuffed and are stuck with a long fourth down, don't be afraid to throw. Just remember your two wide receivers. Only throw to them.
Challenge 3
Goal: On your 1st drive, successfully dive for a TD against the Seahawks.
Cost: 20
Rewards: 100 Developments Points, Gear - Metal Pads 7
Again, this is easy thanks to your running back. The only trick is that the goal is not to drive for a touchdown, but to dive for one. That means when you get to the goal line, you've got to leap across. If you don't or if you catch a pass in the endzone, the challenge is failed. 
Challenge 4
Goal: Beat the Cardinals in a game to 14 in 8 minutes or less.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Jumpsuit Shirt
This is your first real test as there's no way to avoid using the pass and playing defense in order to beat this challenge. Ignore the clock as it's close to impossible not to win or lose within the allotted time. The key to this one is avoiding a turnover. If you score on both your possessions, you win no matter how badly the Arizona offense trumps you (pause for laughter). Stay with the run, but mix in the pass as well, at least one out of every four plays. If you have open field, worry more about the score than a taunt. There will be time in the future to light it up with your fancy moves. For now, it's all about getting dev points. Go for running plays on your conversions as a 2-point conversion doesn't get you any closer to a win and is harder to complete. Your defense will likely stink, so don't worry about the opponent scoring when they have the ball. No turnovers = a victory.
Challenge 5
Goal: Beat the Seahawks to 50,000 Style Points.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Development Points, Offensive Play - Reverse Pass
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. Since you start on offense, your goal should be nothing less than to win this one on your first possession. 
Challenge 6
Goal: Successfully Complete 2 Spins or Jukes and beat a random NFC West opponent in a game to 24.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play: PA Reverse
Even though this challenge offers a random NFC West team, your strategy shouldn't change no matter the opponent. The easy part should be completed first. You need to juke or complete a spin move. Do this on your first drive so it's out of the way. It needs to be a successful juke. Check the Challenge Status Screen in the Pause Menu to see if you've completed the task. Once that's out of the way, it's time to win this little skirmish.
You need three touchdowns and three 2-point conversions to win. Each time you score (by now you should know that your running back is your horse) try for a 2-point conversion. Convert all three and you have an easier time winning. If you miss all three, it will still take you an extra touchdown, just as if you scored three 1-point conversions. Save your Gamebreaker for defense unless you are driving for the winning score, then the Gamebreaker can be your guide. One word of caution: The CPU opponent will employ the exact same strategy, so be prepared.
If you find that you're continually tromped by the other team, back out to the Challenge Menu and start again to randomize the team. The Cardinals, of course, are your best bet for a win.
Challenge 7
Goal: Successfully complete 2 stiff arms and beat a random NFC West opponent in a game to 24.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Gear - High-Tops 3
The advice for Challenge 6 follows here, including how to play your Gamebreakers and PATs. The only difference is that you need to lay down two successful stiff arms. Though a stiff arm may knock an opponent off you, if you stumble in any way, the stiffy is nullified. Be sure to check the Status Screen to make certain you have your two. You'll be running a lot, of course, and should have plenty of opportunities. It's best to forget about style and worry about nailing the two stiff arms first. Once that's done, style to your hearts content.
Challenge 8
Goal: Successfully pitch the ball, complete 1 pass, and beat a random opponent in a game to 20.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
The objectives here can be reached in the first series easily enough. Make your first play an option run and pitch the ball to your halfback. First part complete. Don't worry about getting the pass right away, you're certain to toss and complete at least one pass on your way to three touchdowns. If you find, on your final drive, that you are lacking a completed pass, it should be obvious what to do. There is no benefit in going for any 2-point coversions, however you need to complete two 1-point conversions to win with only three touchdowns. If you fail one of these, go for a 2-pointer on your final drive. As usual, save your Gamebreaker for defense. Also, continue to pump up your running back. That's right, you gotta continue to make him better for now while largely ignoring your other players.
Challenge 9
Goal: On your 1st drive, run for a TD against the Seahawks.C
ost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Gear - Short Sleeve Shirt 4
You can choose any method you want to get down the field, but when it comes to scoring, you need to get in on a run. It can be a broken pass play with the QB running in for the score, but someone's gotta get on the ground. If you manage to break a long pass, go out of bounds right before the endzone. There is no score here, just a need to bust a rushing TD on the first drive.
Challenge 10
Goal: Be ahead of the Seahawks after 20 plays.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Gear - Sweatshirt 3
This a very different type of challenge than you've faced before. The goal is to be ahead of the Seahawks after 20 plays, which means that if you are tied or behind after the 20th play, you fail. Twenty plays is too many to try and run down on your first offensive series, however, you can seriously cut into the amount of plays remaining. If you take too many plays to get your TD, then you may not have enough plays left to get another TD should the Seahawks score and tie. If scoring takes you more than 10 plays, you may want to try a radical strategy. Assuming you make the PAT, let the Seahawks score with as few plays as possible. Try and stuff their PAT. Should you fail, you'll still have seven or eight plays to score. Piece of cake for a genius like you.
If, however, you score very quickly (under five plays), then your goal will be to slow or stop the 'Hawks from scoring. You want about eight plays remaining for your triumphant final drive. If you are ahead and have only a few plays left on the ticker, eat the ball. Say you have first and a ways, but only four plays left on the ticker. Run out of bounds four times and you win. Be sure to check the Challenge Status Screen often to see how many plays remain. The number showing is what play is about to be run.
Challenge 11
Goal: On your 1st drive, pass for a TD against the Cardinals.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
This is identical to Challenge 9, with the exception that you need to score a passing TD and you get to do it against the woeful Arizona Cardinals. Drive down the field any way you like. Obviously the running game is the smart choice. Don't feel like you need to try and beat this challenge with one long bomb. Play to your strengths. Should you be on an open run to the endzone, step out of bounds before scoring the TD, then set up a short pass into the endzone for the victory.
Challenge 12
Goal: Be ahead of the 49ers after 25 plays.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Gear - Skicap 4
This one's a bit tougher than your last similar challenge. This time around you need to bust a higher score than the run-happy 49ers through 25 plays. Your target (if you cannot pull ahead) is to have the ball on the third possession of the game with you and the Niners tied at 7 apiece with 9-10 plays on the ticker. To do this, make use of your running game as much as possible. With the running game, you should be able to gain small chunks of yardage and get a first down every other play. You don't have to score on the final play, but you should leave the Niners with no more than three plays to score. When this is the case, drop your DB's into deep coverage and pull back your linebacker manually as a fourth tackler deep. All that matters is stopping a last-minute TD.
Challenge 13
Goal: Shut out the Rams in a game to 12.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Headband 1 (+1 Coverage)
Shut down the Rams? Sounds crazy right? Well it is early on in your NFL Challenge life. Don't attempt this one until you have a meaty defense. This isn't as hard as it sounds though. You start with the ball, so score first (PAT doesn't really matter) and do your darndest to get as many Style Points as possible. You need just one turnover. Rush the passer. Warner can't move and he will fumble. With the ball back in your hands, use the Gamebreaker if you have it and light up a TD for a victory.
Challenge 14
Goal: Score a TD with an offensive Gamebreaker and beat the 49ers in a game to 20.
Cost: 80 tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Shoes 4 (+1 Speed)
Use your running back for offense. Use a lot of option plays so you get some extra Style Points for the pitch and juke and style your way up the field. Take the chance of a fumble and style away. You need three scores and, of course, the final one must be with a Gamebreaker on, so save it for that moment. If you are styling a bit with each run play, you should have a Gamebreaker as you near your final score. If not, style like crazy towards the goal line. If you are still too far away, go out of bounds on several plays to turn the ball over. Try and get the ball back and work on getting that Gamebreaker filled.
Challenge 15
Goal: Score a TD before the Rams score a TD
Cost: 80 tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Shoes 1 (+1 Agility) 
This would be easy if you started with the ball, but you don't. You first must stop the Rams and then score a TD of your own. Play zone to slow them down and blitz on passing downs to put pressure on the slow-moving Warner.
Challenge 16
Goal: Score a defensive TD and beat a random opponent in a game to 36.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points
In a long game to 36, you are bound to earn some turnovers just by default. However, you not only have to get a turnover here, but take it to the house. Put extra pressure on the run when you have the offense backed towards the goal, that way there's little room to travel for a TD. When you do get the turnover, don't be afraid to pitch early and often on your way to the end zone.
Challenge 17
Goal: Get 3 user tackles and beat the 49ers in a game to 20.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points
Earning three user tackles couldn't be easier unless you are asleep when on defense. Switch to the closest player to the ball carrier and tackle. Since the 49ers love to run, this should be pretty easier. The tougher part is beating them since the Niners start with the ball. If you can't get the defensive stop, you need to be flashy on offense to earn a Gamebreaker to use on defense. Since you only need 20 points to win, don't try for 2-point conversion. Get two 1-point conversions and you're golden.
Challenge 18
Goal: Stop the 49ers from getting a 1st down (or scoring) on their 1st drive.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points
It's time to show your defensive colors. Offense means nothing this time around so put your weakest defenders on the D-Line. Put your fastest defensive lineman in as linebacker if your current LB isn't as good a tackler. You should concentrate on short pass protection and the run. Though stopping the Niners four straight downs is possible, your best bet is to cause a turnover. That means you need to hit and hit hard. This challenge shouldn't be attempted until you've upgraded your DB's to 10+ ratings in tackles. Hit hard. You will probably have to play this one a few times, but if you are even a moderate tackler, you'll finish this one off in short time. Note that just because a Niner gets past the first down marker, the play isn't dead until they are tackled or score. This means you can cause a fumble beyond the first down marker and halt the drive successfully (you must recover the fumble).
Challenge 19
Goal: Make a goal line stand against the Rams
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points
This should not be attempted until you have good tackling and coverage skills for your key defensive players (linebacker and DBs). The Rams are a high-octane offense and they only need a few yards to score. It's almost impossible to stop them on four downs, but it is possible to get a turnover and end their drive. The field is very short, so causing a fumble is tough because you'll probably only get one shot. However, an interception is very possible with so little real estate to play with. You can use zone or man, but make sure you have two DBs dropped back into the endzone. Take control of your best cover man and spy. It may take you quite a few tries, but it's a short challenge so hopefully it won't frustrate you too greatly.
Challenge 20
Goal: Call a running play. Successfully pitch the ball twice on your very first play.
Cost: 200 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Gloves 3: (+3 Catching)
This is quite easy. You don't even need a TD or yardage here, just two successful pitches on the first play. Call an option, which assumes one pitch anyway. Run your back at the line and as he nears, pitch back to the QB. Run out of bounds to avoid a fumble and possible nullification of the second successful pitch.
Challenge 21
Goal: Beat the Cardinals in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Cardinals' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Cardinals in a straight-up match.
Challenge 22
Goal: Beat the Seahawks in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Seahawks' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Seahawks in a straight-up match.
Challenge 23
Goal: Beat the 49ers in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the 49ers' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the 49ers in a straight-up match.
Challenge 24
Goal: Beat the Rams in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Rams' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Rams in a straight-up match
NFC Challenge: AFC West 
Challenge 1
Goal: On your 1st drive against the Chiefs, execute a play worth 8000 Style Points.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Team Logo - The Kings
The Chiefs secondary is a bit weak. If you have a decent passer rating, go for a deep pass. Use Style when you throw. A long throw with style and a catch will usually get you what you need. Your other option it to run. Call an Option play and do a quick dance with your QB to earn some points, then pitch it to your halfback and dance down the sideline or put a stiffarm in someone's grill.
Challenge 2
Goal: Run for 2 TDs and beat the Chargers in a game to 14.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Jumpsuit Pants
Don't worry about stopping the Chargers' attack. As long as you score both times you have the ball, that's all that matters. You need two rushing TDs, but you can pass to get closer to the end zone if need be. If you are getting close on a pass play, run out of bounds and call a run play to score. You need two 1-point conversion to reach 14.
Challenge 3
Goal: Run for 1 TD, pass for 1 TD, and beat the Raiders in a game to 14.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Basketball Jersey 4
As with Challenge 2, all you need to worry about is scoring on your own drives. It's easier to get a rushing TD, so try for the pass first. If everyone is covered, run into the end zone and use your pass next time around.
Challenge 4
Goal: Be ahead of the Broncos after 12 plays.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Tee-Shirt 7
The goal is to be ahead of the Broncos after 12 plays, which means that if you are tied or behind after the 12th play, you fail. Twelve plays is too many to try and run down on your first offensive series, however, you can seriously cut into the amount of plays remaining by running the ball on each down. Short runs can get you to the end zone in 8-10 plays. Milk as many plays as possible. If you give the Broncos 4 plays or fewer to score, play a soft deep zone to keep them from the quick strike.
Challenge 5
Goal: Beat the Raiders in a game to 14 without throwing an interception or losing a fumble.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play - Flats
The Raider's D is only middle of the line, but in the early goings it's safer to run than toss the ball. Run towards the sidelines so that a fumble has a greater chance of going out of bounds. You need two touchdowns with 1-point conversions, so only call running plays when you score. If you miss the first conversion, you'll need to score a 2-point conversion on the second drive to win. The Raiders have two good blockers on offense, but when they put three men on the line, the center is usually someone who has no right trying to block a fly from getting through and open window. Shift your best D-Lineman to the middle and pressure the weak link.
Challenge 6
Goal: Shut out the Broncos in a game to 12.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play - Posts
While the Broncos aren't the most potent offensive team, this challenge shouldn't be attempted early in your NFL Challenge career. Wait until you have some real defensive skills, when you can shut down an offense with regularity. Once you can tackle and cover, come back and hit the Broncos in the mouth. Stopping the running game is key, but you need to think bend-don't-break and call a lot of blitzing plays from the Short Pass menu. A stop or a turnover should seal the deal for you. If you notice a set with three offensive linemen, move your best pass rusher to the center to play on what will almost certainly be the weakest blocker. A sack goes a long way to a shutout. 
Challenge 7
Goal: Successfully complete 1 Style Pass, 1 Style Pitch, and win against the Broncos in a game to 24.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Gear - Sweatshirt 4
On your fist play, call an option. Hold down the Style button and pitch to your back. On the second play, call a short pass and hold down the Style Button when you chuck the ball. Make sure it's complete. Now go out and beat the Broncos like any other NFL team would (with ease and regularity).
Challenge 8
Goal: Successfully complete 2 jukes or spins and beat the Chargers in a game to 24.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
Since you are (in all likelihood) a run offense, you'll have plenty of opportunities. You don't even have to perform the spins in the same play. However, get them out of the way quickly. You don't have to be near an opponent to spin or juke. Start your run and as you near the line of scrimmage hit the Juke button. Make sure you completed a successful juke or spin by checking the Challenge Status in the Pause Menu.
Challenge 9
Goal: On your 1st drive, successfully dive for a TD against the Broncos.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Gear - Baggy Shorts 5
Go ahead and cue up that broken record. Use the running game to march down the field. If you have a decent passing attack (which is more likely if you come back to this challenge later on), you have a good chance of burning the Broncos deep with a play-action pass. With the slow sand, this isn't a bad idea. Otherwise, run to the sidelines. Your final play can be a pass or a run, but you need to dive into the end zone. Make sure you attack when there's a clear shot, because a tackling defender might sling you into the end zone (which is a dwarf toss, not a dive).
Challenge 10
Goal: Beat the Chiefs in a game to 24 with no more than 3 lost fumbles and interceptions combined.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Gear - Camo Pants 3
Obviously the trick here is to avoid turning the ball over. That means using your running back almost exclusively. Know who on your team has a high Carry rating and only run with them. Stick to the sidelines as well, because if a fumble goes out of bounds, you retain possession and it doesn't count against you. See, it's lost fumbles. Of course, there is the matter of beating the Chiefs. The run will see you through this challenge, but you can bust out the pass every now and then. Just be sure to throw to a sure-handed receiver with no more than one defender on him.
Challenge 11
Goal: Pass for 2 TDs and beat the Chiefs in a game to 24.
Cost: 90 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
The chiefs have a strong offense, but they aren't the best tacklers in the league. Use the run to control the game and throw short passes each time you reach the endzone. Don't score on defense (go out of bounds before reaching the endzone) and don't earn a rushing touchdown in either of your first two scores. Get both passing TDs out of the way, then score however you like on the final drive.
Challenge 12
Goal: On your 1st drive against the Chargers, execute a play worth 15,000 Style Points.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Gear - Tennis Shoes 4
If your running back has solid skills, this one shouldn't be too tough. Start with an option running play and have your QB perform a Style move, then toss to the RB who then must bust a long run with some sweet style. If you fail, it's just a matter of trying again.
Challenge 13
Goal: Successfully complete 2 Stiff Arms and beat the Raiders in a game to 24.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points, Team Logo - Thugs
You need three touchdowns and three 2-point conversions to win. Each time you score (by now you should know that your running back is your horse) try for a 2-point conversion. Convert all three and you have an easier time winning. If you miss all three, it will still take you an extra touchdown, just as if you scored three 1-point conversions. Save your Gamebreaker for defense unless you are driving for the winning score, then the Gamebreaker can be your guide. One word of caution: The CPU opponent will employ the exact same strategy, so be prepared. Don't forget to get in your two Stiff Arms. Earlier is better.
Challenge 14
Goal: Get 2 user tackles using the Defensive Power Move against the Broncos on their first drive.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points
If you don't have decent Tackle ratings for four or five of your players (and by decent we mean 10 or better), don't try this challenge. Once you can tackle, this one's fairly easy. Take a linebacker or DB and get to the ballcarrier. Hold down the Style Button and Tackle. When you do the Defensive Power Tackle, you can't change direction, so don't hit the Style Button until you are close to your target. Since the Broncos run a lot, you should have several tackle opportunities. Don't take the ball, should you cause a fumble, as it will end the Broncos' first series and therefore kill the challenge.
Challenge 15
Goal: Be ahead of the Raiders after 2 minutes.
Cost: 140 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Gloves 5 (+2 Carrying)
The Raiders begin on offense and you have two choices of how to deal with this. One is to let them score quickly and then stop the PAT or keep them to only a rushing PAT. The other is to keep them from scoring, which will eat up more clock, or try for a turnover. In either case, you want to be the last one with the ball. If the Raiders end up with 8 points after their first drive, restart the Challenge as it will be tough to score twice in the time allotted. When you have the ball, maximize your running game to control the clock. Eat up time as you make your way downfield. The PAT counts towards your time, so you need to score with at least 15 seconds left on the clock if you need a PAT to win. 
Challenge 16
Goal: Beat the Chiefs to 200,000 Style Points.
Cost: 140 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Shoes 2 (+2 Agility)
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. This will take you several offensive drives, but it's not hard to do. To win, you need to score 200,000 before the Chiefs, which means you need to keep the Chiefs from making you look foolish. For that reason, play soft defense. A big play means big Style Points which means bad things for you. Stop them from earning style and you are golden.
Challenge 17
Goal: Successfully complete 1 Style Juke/Spin, 1 Style Hurdle, 1 Style Dive, and win against the Raiders in a game to 24.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points, Gear - T-Shirt 6
Though you are given a hefty list of things to do, these should all be old hat for you. It's better to get them out of the way quickly. Call a few run plays and get the Juke and Hurdle on the opening series. Perform a Style Dive into the endzone and you are golden. Now you just need to beat those damned Raiders. Remember to go for 2-point conversions so you can win the game in three touchdowns instead of four.
Challenge 18
Goal: Calling only passing plays, beat the Chiefs in a game to 12 without getting sacked.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points
So you don't have much of a passing game and you figure this challenge will be impossible for you. Wrong. You just need to call a passing play. The QB can run the ball so long as he's not tackled behind the ling of scrimmage. Switch your QB with your running back. Now your halfback will have the ball snapped. Turbo across the line and made some made moves. If you do want to pass, be sure to swap your true QB back into his proper position via the Pause Menu. Remember, you must also call a pass play on the PAT.
Challenge 19
Goal: Intercept 1 pass and beat the Chargers in a game to 24.
Cost: 200 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Gloves 6 (+3 Carrying)
Do this challenge when your DBs have good Cover and Agility ratings. Even though the Chargers have LaDanian tearing up the backfield, call only pass coverage plays. Yes, you need to stop the Chargers and win, but you also have to intercept a pass. Give yourself the best chance possible by keeping a safety in zone and playing some deep man with your corners. Once you have the INT, adjust your defense against the run. Each time you score, go for a 2-point conversion. You need to convert on three in a row to win with only three TDs.
Challenge 20
Goal: Sack Broncos 2 times and beat them in a game to 24.
Cost: 200 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Armband 3 (+3 D-Moves)
As a favor to you, the CPU chooses only passing plays with the exception of PATs. For that reason, you need to blitz every single down. Keep putting pressure and you're your best D-Lineman to face the center, who is generally the worst blocker. Don't let the play action fool you, the CPU will always run a pass play. Each time you score, go for a 2-point conversion. You need to convert on three in a row to win with only three TDs.
Challenge 21
Goal: Beat the Chiefs in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Chiefs' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Chiefs in a straight-up match.
Challenge 22
Goal: Beat the Raiders in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Raiders' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Raiders in a straight-up match.
Challenge 23
Goal: Beat the Chargers in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Chargers' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Chargers in a straight-up match.
Challenge 24
Goal: Beat the Broncos in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Broncos' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Broncos in a straight-up match
NFC Challenge: NFC North 
Challenge 1
Goal: Score at least 50,000 Style Points and beat the Bears in a game to 16.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Cargo Pants 3
At this point, if you can't score 50,000 Style Points in the course of a short game, well, you wouldn't be at this point. Run with style. You need to get to 16, which means you need two 2-point conversions to win. You are not in competition with the Bears to reach 50,000 Style Points first, you just have to have style when you win. 
Challenge 2
Goal: Run for 1 TD, Pass for 1 TD, and beat the Bears in a game to 16.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points
As with Challenge 1, the ultimate goal is beating the Bears in a game to 16. You need two 2-point conversions to win. However, this time one score must be on the ground and the other through the air. Go for the passing TD first, as it can be tougher and then saunter in a second time for the rushing TD.
Challenge 3
Goal: Successfully complete 1 Signature Style Juke or Spin and beat the Vikings in a game to 14.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 10 Dev Points
A Signature Style Juke is different than a Style Juke. Check your instruction manual for direction on how to perform Signature Style moves. If you aren't sure if a juke you pulled off was Signature Style, check the Challenge Status screen in the Pause Menu. Be sure to keep a safety deep because Moss can get down the field quick and you need a last resort in case he blows past your corner.
Challenge 4
Goal: Beat the Packers in a game to 16 in 8 minutes or less.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Visor 4
This is a standard game to 16, meaning you need two 2-point conversions on your TDs to win. You don't have a lot of time however. The truth is, if you can convert those 2-pointers, 8 minutes should be a comfortable amount of time. You'll need to mix up the running and passing game because a stuffed run means more time eaten away from the clock. Call your plays at the line quickly to save valuable seconds. If you have to, let the Packers score quickly on their first drive so you save some time for your final push.
Challenge 5
Goal: Force 2 fumbles and beat the Vikings in a game to 30.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Defensive Play - Outside Blitz
The Vikings have only one true threat to this challenge and his name's Randy Moss. The king of hops has some serious speed and can torch most DB's. You should be able to handle the Vikings on route to a victory, even with Moss, but every time Moss beats your DB and catches the ball in the open, it's close to impossible to turn that into a fumble and that is your ultimate goal. Always keep someone in deep coverage and rely on your linebacker to hit hard using the Defensive Power Tackle to try and jar the ball loose. You don't need to recover the fumble, just cause two of them.
Challenge 6
Goal: Get 1 interception and beat the Lions in a game to 20.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play - Split
Beating the Lions isn't a tough task, as the majority of the NFL has demonstrated over the past few years, but you need an INT during the game to win the challenge. You have to forget about defending the run altogether and instead focus on dropping back into coverage on every play for a chance at the INT. Man and zone don't make as much different in NFL Street as they do in the NFL, but, in general, you have a better shot going man as you can generally expect that a defender will be somewhere near a receiver when the ball is tossed. Zone works well on short passes, especially if it's only a few yards to the goal line. Don't forget to defend the pass on conversions as well. You need just three touchdowns and two 1-point conversions to win.
Challenge 7
Goal: Successfully pitch the ball 2 times in a row on your first play.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Gear - Short Sleeve Shirt 5
This is quite easy. You don't even need a TD or yardage here, just two successful pitches on the first play. Call an option, which assumes one pitch anyway. Run your back at the line and as he nears, pitch back to the QB. Run out of bounds to avoid a fumble and possible nullification of the second successful pitch.
Challenge 8
Goal: Beat the Packers by 10 or more in a game to 30
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
Good thing the Packers suck... oh wait. Don't try this one until your defense can bring it with solid hits and excellent coverage. You can't win this without forcing at least one turnover. If the Packers get more than 25 points, it's mathematically over. Don't let them. Use the run and jam it down their throat. Control the game with the run. Go for 1-point conversions, as they are easier to guarantee. Save your Gamebreaker for defense and use it to get that one necessary turnover from the Pack. Blitz often to put pressure on Favre.
Challenge 9
Goal: Shut out the Vikings in a game to 14.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
This one's simple enough, if not all that easy, you need to force a Vikings turnover and score on your first two possessions with 1-point conversions. Again, this is one you want to do once your defense is built up. Keep a man deep to protect against Randy Moss and the big play. Otherwise, focus on the short passing game, as it's Minnesota's specialty in this challenge.
Challenge 10
Goal: Successfully complete 1 Signature Style Hurdle and beat the Packers in a game to 30.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
A Signature Style Hurdle is different than a Style Hurdle. Check your instruction manual for direction on how to perform Signature Style moves. If you aren't sure if a Hurdle you pulled off was Signature Style, check the Challenge Status screen in the Pause Menu. Go for the hurdle on your first drive, rather than letting it sit on your mind the entire game. Once that's done, there's still the task of beating the Packers. You need two 2-point conversions at some point to win with four TDs.
Challenge 11
Goal: Calling only running plays, beat the Lions in a game to 28.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Gear - Boots 3
By now you have one heck of a running back, so this one's an easy win. The Lions are a sorry team and your D should be able to handle their passing attack easily (they don't run too much). Pressure the line as the CPU sometimes chooses a DB or linebacker for the center. You can't pass for a 2-point conversion, so you need to slam in for all of your 1-point conversions to win with four touchdowns. Miss one and it will be five deep to win. Even at this, there should be no trouble winning. 
Challenge 12
Goal: Calling only pass plays, complete 5 passes in a row and beat the Vikings in a game to 30.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
You need a good QB and decent receivers for this one. Play the game as you normally would and build up to your Gamebreaker. Use your Gamebreaker on offense and try for short passes. If the QB runs or gets sacked, that ends the streak. Keep a man deep to protect against Randy Moss and the big play. Otherwise, focus on the short passing game, as it's Minnesota's specialty in this challenge.
Challenge 13
Goal: On your 1st drive, score a TD against the Lions who have an active defensive Gamebreaker.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points, Team Logo - Gorillas
The problem playing against a defensive Gamebreaker is that the defense will almost always cause a fumble on a tackle. You have to be a whimp here. Get your butt out of bounds. Call passing plays and throw towards the sideline. Catch the ball and get out of bounds immediately.
Challenge 14
Goal: Get 3 User Sacks and beat the Bears in a game to 30.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points, Gear - Visor 6
Take control of your best lineman. Put pressure by using blitz packages. The MLB Blitz play is a good one if you've unlocked it. Keep coming at the QB until you earn the sack. Even if they manage to score some points on you or some big plays, the only thing that matters is your ability to get a sack. Hold down the Turbo Button and tap the Spin/Rip Button even before the snap so that the minute the ball is hiked you can push on the O-Line for a chance at the QB. The Bears pass a lot, so you should have plenty of opportunities.
Challenge 15
Goal: Beat the Lions to 200,000 Style Points.
Cost: 140 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Pads 2 (+2 Tackling)
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. This will take you several offensive drives, but it's not hard to do. To win, you need to score 200,000 before the Lions, which means you need to keep the Lions from making you look foolish. For that reason, play soft defense. A big play means big Style Points which means bad things for you. Stop them from earning style and you are golden.
Challenge 16
Goal: Be ahead of the Vikings after 2 minutes.
Cost: 140 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Armband 5 (+2 Blocking)
You start on defense and you have just two minutes to be ahead. This is a radical strategy, but let the Vikings score. They don't have a good defense so you will be able to score on them. Put your efforts into stopping the PAT. If you do, then you are a TD and 1-point conversion from being golden. You want at least a minute on the clock. Use the short pass and then bust through the secondary. If the Vikings have 7, go for a 2-point conversion. Be sure to run down the clock when you near the goal line. Waste at least 5 seconds before each snap.
Challenge 17
Goal: Beat the Bears in a game to 30 without throwing an interception or losing a fumble.
Cost: 160
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points, Team Logo - Soulmen
Not for the feint-hearted, don't give this tough challenge a go until your runningback has some serious Carrying skills (at least 17). Despite their mediocre performance during the NFL season, the Bears defense comes brimming with hard-hitting talent. Stopping their offense is a matter of putting the quash on the A-Train, so stick with Run and Short Pass plays. On offense, you need two 2-point conversion to win with four touchdowns. Turnovers end this contest immediately. Even if you cause a fumble after an interception, you still blow the challenge. The Bears corners are ballhawks, making running your only smart option. You want 90% run and 10% pass. Don't lateral unless it's to another player with good carrying skills. The turf makes juking difficult and there's very little out of bounds area for fumbles to roll to. Save you Gamebreaker. If you are on the final drive, use it, otherwise wait and use your little gift to cancel a Bears Defensive Gamebreaker which would almost guarantee a fumble on every hit.
Challenge 18
Goal: Score a defensive TD against the Lions in their first possession.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points
This one may take a number of tries to complete. Not only must you cause a turnover (fumble or pick) but then return it for a TD. It's not as easy as it sounds. Though you may have some good DBs who can get you a pick, your best bet is to pressure the line with a blitz. Take control of your best tackler and wait for the play to develop, then turbo to the ball carrier and use the Defensive Power Tackle to try and jar the ball loose. Once it's loose, a lot is left up to luck as you need to get the ball without having to dive for it and then get some momentum towards the endzone so you can juke your way to a score.
Challenge 19
Goal: Beat the Bears by 20 or more in a game to 30.
Cost: 200 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Pads 3 (+3 Tackling)
If you don't have a defense resembling a famous Bears team of mid-80s fame, then foggeddabouddit! You need the D here as it will take two turnovers to win this challenge. If the bears score more than 15 (that's just two TDs) it's all over. You need to come at the Bears hard with blitz packages and try to force a bad pass or a fumble.
Challenge 20
Goal: Shut out the Lions in a game to 24.
Cost: 200 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Wristband (+3 Passing)
You have one thing in your favor -- this is the Lions we're talkin' about here. They have no real offense. However, you will still need a solid D and 2-point conversions on all three of your TDs. Play for the INT more than stuffing the run. Without a great passer, a crowded lane is a good place for a pick. Play zone and look for the short pass. Your Gamebreaker needs to be saved for defense, to help force a turnover.
Challenge 21
Goal: Beat the Packers in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Packers' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Packers in a straight-up match.
Challenge 22
Goal: Beat the Bears in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Bears' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Bears in a straight-up match. 
Challenge 23
Goal: Beat the Vikings in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Vikings' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Vikings in a straight-up match.
Challenge 24
Goal: Beat the Lions in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Lions' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Lions in a straight-up match
NFC Challenge: AFC North 
Challenge 1
Goal: Score two TDs in 5 minutes or less against the Ravens.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Short Sleeve Shirt 6
You begin on offense, which is a big help. The Ravens have a great defense in the real world, but in NFL Street, they have some offensive guys trying to maintain the D. Target them. The Ravens are particularly weak against a quick QB. If you have a QB who can run, call deep passes, let the DBs fall back, then run to the outside. If you have a slow QB, sub in your running back. It doesn't matter if the Ravens score so let them get a TD quickly so you can get the ball back in your hands. 
Challenge 2
Goal: Score 12 points in two drives or less against the Bengals.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Boots 4
I'll take Easy Challenges for 100 please. Yeah, this is simple. The score doesn't matter, you just need to hit two TDs on your first two drives. Against the Bengals, this is no problem. Run it straight at them. On defense, take chances and have some fun, as it's negligible if the Bengals score.
Challenge 3
Goal: Calling only running plays, score a TD against a team that has an active Gamebreaker.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Baggy Shorts 4
Scoring rushing TD against the Gamebreaker is an incredibly tough task. Part of this is just down to luck when you fumble. Call run plays that have a lead blocker and/or a trailer and always, always, always run to the sidelines so that a fumble has a chance to go out of bounds.
Challenge 4
Goal: Score a TD on the very first play of your drive against the Ravens.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Hat 4
The Ravens have a great defense in the real world, but in NFL Street, they have some offensive guys trying to maintain the D. Target them. The Ravens are particularly weak against a quick QB. If you have a QB who can run, call deep passes, let the DBs fall back, then run to the outside. If you have a slow QB, sub in your running back.
Challenge 5
Goal: Calling a running play, successfully pitch the ball and score on your very first play.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play - Deep Corner
This sounds much harder than it is. The distance to the goal is only a couple of yards. This is basically a conversion. Pick the Option play, pitch the ball and run to the corner, diving if a defender nears. If you are getting stopped, flip the play and try the other side of the defense.
Challenge 6
Goal: Earn 10,000 Style Points against the Browns on your very first play.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Defensive Play - Double Spy
Start with the Option. Do a dance with your QB and toss it back. If you are about to be tackled and you feel you haven't earned enough style (it doesn't take much) toss it again. Who cares where it goes as there is only one play in this entire challenge. If you fumble and can pick it up, continue to rumble and dance.
Challenge 7
Goal: Shut out the Browns in a game to 14.
Cost: 40 Token
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Gear - Warm-Ups 5
This one's simple enough, if not all that easy, you need to force a Browns turnover and score on your first two possessions with 1-point conversions. This is one you want to do once your defense is built up. The Browns are best with short plays, so keep it tight and put pressure on the QB with the MLB Blitz.
Challenge 8
Goal: Score a safety on your opponent's very first drive.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Team Logo - MC's
You need some serious D-Line pressure here. Any play that gets a first down essentially ends the chances for this one, so play reckless. Use the Corner Blitz to add a lot of pressure. All that matters is a sack or a run stuff. If you can snuff the first run behind the line, the second play will usually see the QB in the end zone, waiting for a safety-loving sack.
Challenge 9
Goal: Earn 4 user tackles against the Steelers on their first drive.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Team Logo - Flies
The Steelers are not a big fly type of team, so you are usually safe with run and short pass coverage. The best position for tackles is linebacker, but anytime a play develops, quickly switch to the nearest defender and go for the tackle. As long as you are active and you can force the Steelers to take at least 8 plays to get to the end zone, you should complete this one with no problem.
Challenge 10
Goal: Score on your 1st 3 drives without throwing an interception or losing a fumble to the Browns.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
Not for the feint-hearted, don't give this tough challenge a go until your running back has some serious Carrying skills (at least 17). Despite their mediocre performance during the NFL season, the Bears defense comes brimming with hard-hitting talent. You don't have to keep them from scoring, but if you force a turnover you gain better field position and therefore less chance of turning the ball over. Turnovers end this contest immediately. Even if you cause a fumble after an interception, you still blow the challenge. The Bears corners are ballhawks, making running your only smart option. You want 90% run and 10% pass. Don't lateral unless it's to another player with good carrying skills. Save your Gamebreaker for offense. This won't keep you from fumbling, but it will lessen the chances. Remember to run along the sidelines.
Challenge 11
Goal: Score 2 rushing and 2 passing TDs and win a game to 32 against the Steelers.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Gear - Warm-Ups 6
The Steelers have a good D, but you can do this one. To reach 32 you need four TDs and four 2-point conversions. That's four touchdowns and two need to be rushes and two must be passes. Try the passes first, if you are close to the end zone, and run for the score if all receivers are covered. Save your Gamebreaker for offense, which will help ensure a TD and make the 2-point conversion easier.
Challenge 12
Goal: Come back from a 16 point deficit and win a game to 36 points against the Ravens.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Gear - Visor 5
Oh my, my, my. You are starting a game down two touchdowns, which isn't so great. Remember, the Ravens are a solid defensive team, but their offensive players are the weak link. Attack them. Don't go for 2-point conversions, unless you are confident in your passing ability. Whatever you do, don't get discouraged if you fail to stop the Ravens on their first drive. The Ravens need 3 TDs to win. Use the Gamebreaker on defense and key on stopping Jamal Lewis.
Challenge 13
Goal: Beat the Browns to 100,000 Style Points
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Pads 4 (+1 Run Power)
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. This will take you several offensive drives, but it's not hard to do. To win, you need to score 100,000 before the Browns, which means you need to keep the Browns from making you look foolish. For that reason, play soft defense. A big play means big Style Points which means bad things for you. Stop them from earning style and you are golden.
Challenge 14
Goal: Sack the Bengals 3 times in 2 minutes or less while shutting them out.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points, Gear - Headband 4
Yowch. The Bengals are not pushovers. You can forget the time-limit, it's not as important as stopping the Bengals and getting those three sacks. Come with blitzing packages and with three men on the D-Line. You have to keep the Bengals from scoring, so you can't be careless (i.e. Don't call a Corner Blitz). If you get the ball back with less than three sacks, you need to turn it over. If you have fulfilled the three-sack requirement, you still need to prevent the Bengals from scoring, so a turnover works well. You can relax the pressure and play the pass more once you have all three sacks. Last note -- there's no run plays at all, so don't fall for the play action!
Challenge 15
Goal: Score 2 defensive TDs against the Steelers before either team scores 36 points.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points
As you may have noticed from recent challenges, things hinge on forcing turnovers. Not only do you need turnovers, though, you need to score on them. This is f'ing tough. No lie. One of the tougher challenges in the entire Challenge Mode. If you have the gumption, make certain you have one heck of a defense. When you get a turnover, do everything in your power to score. Pitch like crazy, even if it risks giving the ball right back. The turnover means nothing if you don't score on it.
Challenge 16
Goal: Shut out the Steelers after 20 plays.
Cost: 140 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Wristband 2 (+2 Passing)
You begin with the ball and a lot of ground to cover. Use running plays, but short running plays. If you can run on the Steelers, then work the plays so that it takes you three plays per first down. Score with 10 or fewer plays remaining. The Steelers offense is, uh, not good. Play against the short pass. Pressuring the QB with the occasional blitz is a good idea. Keep a safety deep, just in case.
Challenge 17
Goal: Your random opponent has an active Gamebreaker, stop them from scoring.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points, Gear - Baggy Pants 5
Stopping an opponent with a Gamebreaker is all about forcing a turnover. Despite their enhanced status, players are still prone to fumbles, so hit hard. Play against short yardage. If your opponent wants to air it out, your chances of stopping them are minimal anyway. Take control of your hardest hitting player (likely your linebacker) and spy on the QB. If they pass, run to the receiver and try a Defensive Power Tackle when they catch the ball. If it's a run, try and tackle the running back from the side.
Challenge 18
Goal: Successfully pitch the ball 6 times on your first play against the Bengals.
Cost: 160 Token
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points
Do what?? Yeah, it's crazy. Fortunately the Bengals don't have that great a defense. You need good passes. Take an option run to the outside and pitch to the running back. Then it's a matter of going pitch crazy. Is it hard? Very much so. But if you keep at it, eventually you will find a series of six pitches without a single fumble.
Challenge 19
Goal: Force and recover 2 fumbles and beat the Steelers in a game to 28.
Cost: 200 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Pads 6 (+3 Run Power)
Beating the Steelers isn't tough, you need four TDs and four 1-point conversions. However, you need to force and recover two fumbles. Play zone for a chance to get a good hit on someone. Keep your linebacker in the middle and run to each play, as he should be your best chance at a fumblaya. If you are about to win and you don't have two fumbles, you gots to give up the ball and keep trying on defense. Use the Gamebreaker on defense to almost guarantee a fumble. Prevent yourself from picking off a pass. Picks mean nothing here.
Challenge 20
Goal: On your first drive, run for a TD against a team that has an active Gamebreaker.
Cost: 200 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Shoes 6 (+3 Speed)
Scoring rushing TD against the Gamebreaker is an incredibly tough task. Part of this is just down to luck when you fumble. Call run plays that have a lead blocker and/or a trailer and always, always, always run to the sidelines so that a fumble has a chance to go out of bounds.
Challenge 21
Goal: Beat the Bengals in a game to 24
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Bengals' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Bengals in a straight-up match.
Challenge 22
Goal: Beat the Ravens in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Ravens' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Ravens in a straight-up match.
Challenge 23
Goal: Beat the Browns in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Browns' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Browns in a straight-up match. 
Challenge 24
Goal: Beat the Steelers in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Steelers' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Steelers in a straight-up match. 
NFC Challenge: NFC South 
Challenge 1
Goal: Earn 1 Gamebreaker and beat the Falcons in a game to 24.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Camo Pants 4
Michael Vick is your enemy. Everyone else on the Falcons is inconsequential. Focus on him and always call plays with a QB spy. As for earning the Gamebreaker, it should be pretty tough to win a game to 24 without earning a Gamebreaker. If you are having trouble, remember to style as often as possible. If your running back has some smoking Carry skills (14+) you can chance styling into traffic. 
Challenge 2
Goal: Get 1 User Sack and beat the Falcons in a game to 16.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Baggy Pants 6
Take control of your best lineman. Put pressure by using blitz packages. The MLB Blitz play is a good one if you've unlocked it. Keep coming at the QB until you earn the sack. Even if they manage to score some points on you or some big plays, the only thing that matters is your ability to get a sack. Hold down the Turbo Button and tap the Spin/Rip Button even before the snap so that the minute the ball is hiked you can push on the O-Line for a chance at the QB. The Falcons will pass on just about every play, so you should have plenty of opportunities.
Challenge 3
Goal: Shut out the Buccaneers in a game to 14.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Team Logo - Pitbulls
This one's simple enough, if not all that easy, you need to force a Bucs turnover and score on your first two possessions with 1-point conversions. Again, this is one you want to do once your defense is built up. Keep a man deep to protect against the long ball. Otherwise, focus on the short passing and run game, as the Bucs will try to nibble you to death.
Challenge 4
Goal: Score a TD before the Falcons score a TD.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - High-Tops 2
You begin with the ball. The Falcons don't have a particularly strong defense. If you have an air game you call some play action. If the linebacker bites, you should have an open receiver. If running is your thing, stay on the left side of the field and run along the sideline to help avoid losing a fumble. Pound it.
Challenge 5
Goal: Score before the Panthers score.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Defensive Play - Corner Crunch
You start with the ball, which is a plus, but you need to score first against the Panthers, which isn't so easy. Carolina has a solid defense, but if you don't have one of the great running backs of all time by this point, you haven't been spending your Development Points very wisely. Mix it up with a 70/30 run-to-pass ratio. If you turn the ball over, this challenge is not over. Put a stop to the Panthers by focusing on stopping Davis from running on you. Stop the run and you can stop the Panthers from crossing the goal line.
Challenge 6
Goal: On your first drive, rush for a TD against the Buccaneers.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Defensive Play - MLB Blitz
Run, run, run, that's what you've been doing all this time so by now it must be a natural instinct. You need to travel the long length of the field for this one. The tough part is that the Bucs are much more susceptible to the pass. They have big, strong linemen who can jar the ball loose on a run. Unless your passing game is severely deficient, you should call it 50/50 between passing and running. Of course, the final call must be a run. If you have an open pass, run out of bounds before reaching the endzone.
Challenge 7
Goal: Beat the Saints to 100,000 Style Points in 6 minutes or less.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. This will take you several offensive drives, but it's not hard to do. To win, you need to score 100,000 before the 'Aints, which means you need to keep the Saints from making you look foolish. For that reason, play soft defense. A big play means big Style Points which means bad things for you. Stop them from earning style and you are golden. You only have six minutes, so you need to shut down the Saints offense quickly. Take your time on offense, but it's better to let the Saints score fast then take a lot of slow bites and eat away at the clock.
Challenge 8
Goal: Get 5 User Tackles and beat the Buccaneers in a game to 20.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
Earning five user tackles couldn't be easier unless you are asleep when on defense. Switch to the closest player to the ball carrier and tackle. The Bucs love to run, this should be pretty easier. The tougher part is beating them since the Bucs start with the ball. If you can't get the defensive stop, you need to be flashy on offense to earn a Gamebreaker to use on defense. Since you only need 20 points to win, don't try for 2-point conversion. Get two 1-point conversions and you're golden.
Challenge 9
Goal: Get 2 User Sacks and beat the Falcons in a game to 20.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Gear - Hat 6
Take control of your best lineman. Put pressure by using blitz packages. The MLB Blitz play is a good one if you've unlocked it. Keep coming at the QB until you earn the sack. Even if they manage to score some points on you or some big plays, the only thing that matters is your ability to get a sack. Hold down the Turbo Button and tap the Spin/Rip Button even before the snap so that the minute the ball is hiked you can push on the O-Line for a chance at the QB. The Falcons will pass almost exclusively in this challenge, so don't fall for the play action.
Challenge 10
Goal: Shut out the Falcons for 20 plays.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
This is one of the tougher defensive challenges, because Michael Vick's leg is all healed in time for Street. The goal is to shut down Vick and the offensive-minded Falcons for 20 plays. You begin with the ball, which is a play. Twenty plays is too many to try and run down on your first offensive series, however, you can seriously cut into the amount of plays remaining. This is a risky tactic, but you should run out of bounds and kill the play before getting first downs. Use all four plays for each first down. Run exclusively. You can run down about 12 plays before finally scoring. That still gives 8 plays to Vick. Always have a QB spy, do not blitz, and keep one safety deep.
Challenge 11
Goal: Score 1 rushing TD, 1 passing TD, 1 defensive TD, and beat the Buccaneers in a game to 36.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Gear - Printed Pants 1
The Bucs have a good D, but you can do this one. To reach 36 you need five TDs, four 1-point conversions and one 2-pointer. If you're gonna score all those TDs, it shouldn't be difficult to make one a rushing TD and one passing. Unfortunately you also have to score a defensive TD. Play the lanes in zone and hope for a pick. Use your linebacker and try to slam into ball carriers from the side to force a tumble. Once you have the turnover, do whatever you must to score. Pitch like crazy if need be, but get in the end zone.
Challenge 12
Goal: Beat the Saints by 20 in a game to 36.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
If you don't have a defense that can rattle the earth, move on to another challenge. You need the D here as it will take two turnovers to win this challenge. If the Saints score more than 21 (that's just three TDs) it's all over. You need to come at the Bucs hard with blitz packages and try to force a bad pass or a fumble.
Challenge 13
Goal: Beat the Panthers in a game to 20 and stop them from getting a Gamebreaker.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Team Logo - Peacocks
Tackle, tackle, tackle. If you have good tacklers, the Panther's attempts to juke, spin, and stiff arm will be in vain. Protect against the big play by leaving a safety in deep zone as often as possible. Blitz half of the plays as sacks and batted passes can lower your opponents Gamebreaker meter. To get to 20 you need three TDs and two 1-point conversions.
Challenge 14
Goal: Beat the Saints in a game to 14 without throwing an interception or losing a fumble.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Armband 1 (+1 D-Moves)
The Saints' D is only middle of the line, but it's safer to run than toss the ball. Run towards the sidelines so that a fumble has a greater chance of going out of bounds. You need two touchdowns with 1-point conversions, so only call running plays when you score. If you miss the first conversion, you'll need to score a 2-point conversion on the second drive to win. The Saints' running game is more potent than their air attack, so put three men on the line and play man coverage.
Challenge 15
Goal: Beat the Buccaneers to 100,000 Style Points
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Wristband 1 (+1 Passing)
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. This will take you several offensive drives, but it's not hard to do. To win, you need to score 100,000 before the Bucs, which means you need to keep the Bucs from making you look foolish. For that reason, play soft defense. A big play means big Style Points which means bad things for you. Stop them from earning style and you are golden.
Challenge 16
Goal: Get 2 Picks and beat the Panthers in a game to 30.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points, Gear - Basketball Shorts 10
Do this challenge when your DBs have good Cover and Agility ratings. Even though the Panthers have Stevie Davis tearing up the backfield, call only pass coverage plays. Yes, you need to stop the Panthers and win, but you also have to intercept a pass. Give yourself the best chance possible by keeping a safety in zone and playing some deep man with your corners. Once you have the two INTs, adjust your defense against the run. You need two 2-point conversions and two 1-point conversion to win with four TDs.
Challenge 17
Goal: Get 10 User Tackles and beat the Saints in a game to 20.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points, Gear - Cargo Pants
The Saints are not a big fly type of team, so you are usually safe with run and short pass coverage. The best position for tackles is linebacker, but anytime a play develops, quickly switch to the nearest defender and go for the tackle. As long as you keep the Saints from making any large 15+ yard plays, you should complete this one. Be sure to check the Challenge Status screen in the Pause Menu to see how many more User Tackles you need.
Challenge 18
Goal: Score within the 1st 5 plays against the Panthers.
Cost: 140 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Pads 5 (+2 Run Power)
Hey, this sounds easy. Scoring in five plays? Not a problem. Ah, but the Panthers start with the ball and the PAT counts as a play. That means that if you let the Panthers score, you will have just 3 plays to score on the longest field in the game. Even with a great passer, this is not easy. This challenge is actually a defensive stand. You need to get either a safety, a turnover, or stop the Panthers from getting a first. Once you have the ball, a short passing play will likely open up a lane to the end zone. Don't try this unless you have a good defense.
Challenge 19
Goal: Make a goal line stand against the Buccaneers.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points
This should not be attempted until you have great tackling and coverage skills for your key defensive players (linebacker and DBs) and solid D-Moves for your two premier D-Linemen. The Bucs are not a high-powered offense, but they have a powerful run game and that's what they'll use to break through the goal line. It's almost impossible to stop them on four downs, but it is possible to get a turnover and end their drive. The field is very short, so causing a fumble is tough because you'll probably only get one shot. However, an interception is very possible with so little real estate to play with. You can use zone or man, but make sure you have two DBs dropped back into the endzone. Take control of your best cover man and spy. It may take you quite a few tries, but it's a short challenge so hopefully it won't frustrate you too greatly. Though the Bucs love to run, you need to take your chance on the pass.
Challenge 20
Goal: Get 5 User Sacks and beat the Panthers in a game to 30.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points
Take control of your best lineman. Put pressure by using blitz packages. The MLB Blitz play is a good one if you've unlocked it. Keep coming at the QB until you earn the sack. Even if they manage to score some points on you or some big plays, the only thing that matters is your ability to get a sack. Hold down the Turbo Button and tap the Spin/Rip Button even before the snap so that the minute the ball is hiked you can push on the O-Line for a chance at the QB. The Panthers only pass in this challenge, so don't be fooled by the play action.
Challenge 21
Goal: Beat the Buccaneers in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Buccaneers' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Buccaneers in a straight-up match.
Challenge 22
Goal: Beat the Falcons in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Falcons' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Falcons in a straight-up match.
Challenge 23
Goal: Beat the Saints in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Saints' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Saints in a straight-up match.
Challenge 24
Goal: Beat the Panthers in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Panthers' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Panthers in a straight-up match
NFC Challenge: AFC East 
Challenge 1
Goal: Use the Style Dive to find the end zone in your first drive.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points
This is easy thanks to your running back. The only trick is that the goal is not to drive for a touchdown, but to Style Dive for one. That means when you get to the goal line, you've got to leap across. If you don't or if you catch a pass in the end zone, the challenge is failed. 
Challenge 2
Goal: Complete 3 passes or more and beat the Bills in a game to 14.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Printed Pants 2
Hopefully you have some small type of passing game. Feel free to run, but you need to mix in three successful completions before winning. Since you need 14 to win, go for 1-point conversions.
Challenge 3
Goal: Beat the Patriots to 40,000 Style Points without throwing an interception or losing a fumble.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Team Logo - Devils
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. Since you start on offense, your goal should be nothing less than to win this one on your first possession. The only thing that can hurt you is losing a fumble, so sweep to the sidelines for extra protection and don't lateral to buffoons with clubs for hands.
Challenge 4
Goal: Complete 3 consecutive Style Passes in 3 drives or less.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Ski Cap 3
The score doesn't matter, so worry only about your passing game. You need to hit 3 Style Passes in a row and you have 3 drives to get it done. Easy enough. To throw a Style Pass, hold down the Style Button when you chuck the rock. Most of these throws are low, so you must have some spacing from the defender. Turbo deeper into the backfield if you must. Don't sweat distance. A short pass is easier to complete than three long bombs.
Challenge 5
Goal: Beat the Dolphins by 12 in a game to 36.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play - Dish Out
If you've been picking your divisions in order, your unit should be a solid defense beast by now. The Dolphins have only one weapon and that's Ricky Williams and aside from wearing dresses, Ricky loves to fumble the rock. Plan on dedicating your battle to stopping the run. This can also mean calling short pass plays as well. You need to win by 12, but as long as you are confident in winning, you can largely control the final score. Use any Gamebreakers you earn on defense to try and force a turnover. Keep your eyes on the score. If all you need is a 1-point conversion to win, but you'll only win by 8 points, you need to run out of bounds and blow the conversion. Now it's up to your defense to stop the Dolphins from scoring and the next time you score you'll have the fish beat by 14. If the Dolphins score 30 or more points, it's mathematically impossible to win this challenge.
Challenge 6
Goal: Win a game to 14 in two drives or less.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play - Fake Reverse
This one's as simple as can be. It doesn't matter what the Dolphins do on offense, you just need to score twice. Go for a 1-point conversion after your first TD. If you miss it, you'll need a passing conversion the second time out or it's all over. Should you have the skill to earn a Gamebreaker, use it on offense, not defense.
Challenge 7
Goal: Score 12,000 Style Points against the Dolphins on your very first play.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
Start with the Option. Do a dance with your QB and toss it back. If you are about to be tackled and you feel you haven't earned enough style (it doesn't take much) toss it again. Who cares where it goes as there is only one play in this entire challenge. If you fumble and can pick it up, continue to rumble and dance.
Challenge 8
Goal: Sack the Bills 3 times before either team scores 24 points.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
Note that your goal is not to score 24 points. You need to earn 3 sacks before you or the Bills score 24. Come with blitzing packages and with three men on the D-Line. If your D-Line has 15+ D-Move ratings, you have a decent chance. The Bills will pass and pass and pass, so try and ignore the run (and play action) and attack Bledsoe. Knock him on his ass enough times that he gets cut. Err, wait, already happened. Well, now you can simulate the reality.
Challenge 9
Goal: In 5 minutes or less, score 16 points against the Patriots.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
You start on offense, which is a major plus. With five minutes, you have time for about three possessions, but hopefully you can finish this up in just two. Though the Pats have Ty Law, if you have high-quality receivers and a great passer (we're talking 17+ Pass rating) you can throw on the Pats. Otherwise, run the ball. When you score a TD, go for a 2-point conversion. If it succeeds, you need to duplicate this feat again to win. If it fails, you will need three TDs to win. It doesn't matter if the Pats score or not, so call a run play when they have the ball and pull off your defenders to let them score. Take the ball again and repeat your performance down the field. Don't waste time at the line, snap the ball as soon as you can to conserve valuable seconds.
Challenge 10
Goal: Pass for 5 TDs or more in a game to 40 and beat the Jets.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
If you maximize your TDs with 2-point conversions, this can be won in 5 touchdowns, however that's hardly an easy thing to do. Play your game the way you feel most comfortable (consult the Teams section to see how to play the Jets straight-up) but never rush for a TD. Throw for them. If you are about to run into the end zone, step out of bounds at the 1 and call a short pass play.
Challenge 11
Goal: Score 3 or more TDs while Stylin' across the goal line and win a game against a random opponent to 36.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
You should be Stylin' into the end zone every time, challenge or not. You can Style Dive or jaunt in with Style, but when you cross the goal line, always, always, always think, "What would Deion do?"
Challenge 12
Goal: Earn 2 Gamebreakers in a game to 36 and beat the Jets.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Gear - Basketball Shorts 9
Normally you would save your Gamebreaker on defense and you'd probably never use it if you earned it mid-drive, but for this challenge, you must use your Gamebreaker the moment it's earned, because you need to fill up for the next one. Defensive stops will help bolster your Gamebreaker, but you're going to have to Style your ass off for this one. Use a lot of options, fake pitches and passes, use Style Passes, and strut big time if you are in the open field.
Challenge 13
Goal: Calling a run play, rush for a TD against the Dolphins on your first play.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Pads 1 (+1 Tackling)
Not only will you need a fast and powerful halfback, but you need some solid blockers. Choose a play that will run to the side of your best blockers and also a play the will put several blockers in front of you. Sweep to the outside. If you are lucky, the linebacker won't get to you and you can try to juke or stiff arm the secondary. It's a medium drive to the end zone, but you only have one play, so pitching the ball if you are about to get tackled is a no-brainer.
Challenge 14
Goal: Without letting your opponent score, pick the ball 3 times in 10 minutes or less.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points
Do this challenge when your DBs have superb (15+) Cover and Agility ratings. Call only pass coverage plays. Yes, you need to stop your opponent from scoring altogether, but you also need three picks. Don't blitz, you want as many defenders available to intercept the pass as possible. This is a very tough challenge, but it will teach you to be a ballhawk. Watch for the pass, take control of the DB, and jump in front of the receiver to snag the pass. Each time you get the ball back, you need to turn it over ASAP to conserve time.
Challenge 15
Goal: Successfully pitch the ball 3 times or more and score on your first play.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points
Use an option play so that the first pitch is automatic. Head upfield and charge at a defender head on, tossing the ball right as you do. Keep moving towards the end zone and pitch again when it's safe. It may take you quite a few tries, so be patient. A lot of this has to do with the luck and random timing.
Challenge 16
Goal: Shut out the Jets in a game to 14.
Cost: 140 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Shoes 5 (+2 Speed)
This one's simple enough, if not all that easy, you need to force a Jets turnover and score on your first two possessions with 1-point conversions. Again, this is one you want to do once your defense is built up. Keep a man deep to protect against the big play. Otherwise, focus on the short passing game, as it's the only thing the Jets will likely be able to throw at you with any success.
Challenge 17
Goal: Be ahead of the Patriots after 15 plays.
Cost: 140 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Armband 2 (+2 D-Moves)
The Pats start with the ball. Your offense should be good enough now that you can score on this field in 5-6 plays. Slow the Pats. If you can't stop them, let them score with at least 8 plays for you to use. If it's less than that, you'll have to eat up a few extra yards per play. Once you have the ball, use run plays to the sideline without the chain fence border. Take three downs for each first down. Be sure to leave yourself enough plays to score and remember that conversions count as a play. If the Pats have 7, you must go for the 2-point conversion.
Challenge 18
Goal: Stop the Bills from scoring in a goal line stand.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points, Team Logo - DJ's
The Bills are on the 1-yard line and have the stuff to score at will again and again. How do you defend? A little play called Zoned Out. This is a short zone coverage which allows you to react quickly to both the pass and the run. If you see a run happening, charge to it and try to force a fumble to a bad lateral. Your best shot is an interception, the chances of which are greatly increased thanks to all of your defenders in the playing zone behind the goal line. This one is quick, but expect to play through it quite a few times before getting a break and an INT or a true goal line stuff.
Challenge 19
Goal: Shut out the Dolphins in a game to 36.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points
This is not a fun challenge. The Dolphins are a quality offense thanks to Ricky Williams. He's the only true threat and the one you must focus on to win. You will still need a dominant D. Stuff the run and hope that Ricky makes with the fumbling (he does that a lot... maybe he should wear the wedding dress). Without a great passer, a crowded lane is a good place for a pick. Play zone and look for the short pass on longer yardage. Your Gamebreaker needs to be saved for defense, to help force a turnover.
Challenge 20
Goal: Beat the Dolphins to 500,000 Style Points.
Cost: 200 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Shoes 3 (+3 Agility)
This is a very long challenge, as it takes quite a while to earn a half mil in Style Points. Still, the CPU is nowhere near as stylish as you. If you have the endurance for this one, you can generally get it done, just make certain your running back has +17 Carrying and Agility skills. 
Challenge 21
Goal: Beat the Dolphins in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Dolphins' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Dolphins in a straight-up match.
Challenge 22
Goal: Beat the Bills in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Bills' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Bills in a straight-up match.
Challenge 23
Goal: Beat the Patriots in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Patriots' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Patriots in a straight-up match. 
Challenge 24
Goal: Beat the Jets in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Jets' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Jets in a straight-up match. 
NFC Challenge: NFC East 
Challenge 1
Goal: Come back from a 6 point deficit and be ahead of the Redskins after 1 minute.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Basketball Jersey 2
From the first snap, you have 1 minute to score a TD and a PAT. Don't be leisurely about scoring. Get your score with at least 15 seconds left on the clock so you have time for the PAT. The Redskins offense is Spurrier-worthy of the college ranks, but this is the NFL and with deep coverage you can easily prevent the Skins from scoring with 15 or so seconds left on the clock. 
Challenge 2
Goal: Score at least 50,000 Style Points in 8 minutes or less.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Baggy Pants 7
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. Because the field is short, this may take you two offensive drives. You aren't trying to outpace your opponent, so let them score quickly so you can get the ball back. So much time, only a lack of any offense will prevent you from completing this task.
Challenge 3
Goal: Score a TD against the Giants in 40 seconds or less.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Baggy Shorts 7
Fortunately, this isn't a very deep field, so you can cover it to the end zone rather quickly. Rely on your passing game here as even a successful run takes off too much time. Short passes are okay, but try out the play action to see if you can find an open receiver deep.
Challenge 4
Goal: Score 2 rushing TDs against the Cowboys in 10 minutes or less.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Hat 5
The Cowboys can score all they want on you, all you need is two rushing TD of your own and you have a lot of time to accomplish it. The Cowboys D is big, so power running isn't as easy. Mix in passes but save a run for the final play to the end zone. When the 'Boys have the ball, let them score immediately if you need the time, otherwise rush the QB and try to get a stop to shorten the field for your next offensive drive.
Challenge 5
Goal: Get 1 User Sack and beat the Redskins in a game to 24.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play - Slash
Take control of your best lineman. Put pressure by using blitz packages. The MLB Blitz play is a good one if you've unlocked it. Keep coming at the QB until you earn the sack. Even if they manage to score some points on you or some big plays, the only thing that matters is your ability to get a sack. Hold down the Turbo Button and tap the Spin/Rip Button even before the snap so that the minute the ball is hiked you can push on the O-Line for a chance at the QB. The Redskins pass a lot, so you should have plenty of opportunities.
Challenge 6
Goal: Get 3 sacks and beat the Eagles in a game to 36.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play - Quick Option
If you don't have a good pass rush, all it takes is about 300 points to gain some kind of formidable push. Use some Development Points to get your two D-Linemen and your Linebacker to level 10 or greater in D-Moves. Use blitzes. You do not have to be the one making the sacks, but you can help. If your defensive play calls for only two men n the line but the Eagles are blocking with three linemen, position your best passrusher to the middle (always the weakest blocker) and then take control of a different player before the ball is snapped. Your D-Line will stay as you've positioned it, but will act on its own.
Challenge 7
Goal: Be ahead of the Redskins after 6 drives of offense.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
The goal is to be ahead of the 'Skins after six full offensive drives, which means that if you are tied or behind at the end of the sixth drive, you fail. This is really a lot like a regular game, only you have no ultimate score to shoot for. The worst thing you can do is cough up the ball as it will end your drive. If you force a turnover and then turn the ball over yourself during the runback, that counts as a drive. Turnovers for you, bad. For the 'Skins, good. Check out the Teams section for knowledge on beating the Redskins.
Challenge 8
Goal: On your first drive, calling only Pass Plays, complete at least 3 passes with no incompletions and score a TD.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Gear - Baggy Shorts 6
Don't try this unless you have a decent passing game. You can only call passing plays, but your QB can make a run for it. You can rush for the TD if you do so on a called passing play, but you must complete three passes in a row to complete the challenge. A sack or drop will end the consecutive pass count. Get the catches out of the way, because the field is too short to hope for a lot of opportunities. Go for short passes. Once those are squared away, call a deep play and run if a lane opens.
Challenge 9
Goal: Earn 2 Gamebreakers and win a game to 36 points.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
Normally you would save your Gamebreaker on defense and you'd probably never use it if you earned it mid-drive, but for this challenge, you must use your Gamebreaker the moment it's earned, because you need to fill up for the next one. Defensive stops will help bolster your Gamebreaker, but you're going to have to Style your ass off for this one. Use a lot of options, fake pitches and passes, use Style Passes, and strut big time if you are in the open field.
Challenge 10
Goal: Be ahead of the Cowboys after 5 minutes.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
With the short field, this is a shootout. There's way too much time on the clock to try and control things with your running game. Instead, air it out. You've got to be bold now and just keep scoring. Score and try to stop Dallas and if you can't you've got to score again. Be smart when the clock drops below a minute. This is when you want to be in control. If you are behind, you need to strike with only a few seconds left on the clock, so use short passes and runs to the snow-side of the street. If you are ahead and on defense, this is the time to drop your safeties into deep coverage and guard against the big play.
Challenge 11
Goal: Score first in a game against the Redskins.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
The 'Skins start with the ball, so you need to be keen on defense. Blitz Patrick Ramsey. He'll rattle and if you sack him he will break. Your defense will dictate where you start on offense, since they must stop the 'Skins or the challenge is lost. Use the run to the open sideline and the occasional play action.
Challenge 12
Goal: Intercept 2 passes and recover 2 of your opponent's fumbles before either team reaches 64 points.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
If you have two solid DB's with Cover and Agility skills at 15+, the interceptions are almost impossible to avoid, as are the two fumbles. This game will go for a while and it will be wild, there's no way to avoid it. There are no tips for a game this crazy or this high-scoring other than to say that you need to use the pass and that if you have a QB with speed, the Street is yours. As always, use Gamebreakers on defense. You don't need to be ahead to win, you just need to get those 4 turnovers. 
Challenge 13
Goal: Get fewer than 16 1st downs and win the game to 36 points.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
This one's not as hard as it may seem thanks to the short field. You can't rely on the running game here unless you have great blockers. If you can get large chunks of yardage regularly with the run, use it. Otherwise, use passing plays to get quick TDs and run with your QB if a lane opens. The best thing you can have happen is to score on a turnover, so be vigilant in going after the ball.
Challenge 14
Goal: Be ahead of the Eagles after 15 plays.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Gloves 1 (+1 Catching)
The goal is to be ahead of the Eagles after 15 plays, which means that if you are tied or behind after the 15th play, you fail. The field is too short to be able to run out all 15 plays and the Eagles are, frankly a great offensive team that will score. Ideally you want to have two possessions and the Eagles just one. The more plays you can use to score first, the better. But you shouldn't use more than eight. Try and stop the Eagles, but if it looks like they will score, let them. You want the ball last if you're going to be tied or behind. With the short field a desperation pass can easily turn to a score. With luck you will have 4-5 plays left when you get the ball for a final drive.
Challenge 15
Goal: Successfully pitch the ball 4 times or more and score on your first play.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points, Team Logo - Fists
This sounds much harder than it is. The distance to the goal isn't too far considering how short the field is. Pick the Option play, pitch the ball and run to the corner, tossing to your trailer when a defender is about to tackle you. The rest becomes a series of fortunate events as you need to continue to pitch while moving forward for a score. It will probably take a few tries, but if you have a couple of good ball handlers, this is quite possible. If your QB is not a good runner, swap in a receiver at QB so he can be in better position to receive a lateral and continue the run.
Challenge 16
Goal: Shut out the Eagles in a game to 36 points.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points, Team Logo - Aliens
This is about as tough a challenge as you will find. The Eagles have a great, mobile QB and a strong halfback. Also consider that this is a short field, making a shut out even tougher. Is the reward worth the task? Only if you have one of the great defenses in the history of sports video games. Use every trick you know and, of course, use your Gamebreakers on defense. What else can we say? The only real tips are to spy McNabb and expect the run more often than the pass. Man is a much better choice than a full zone here.
Challenge 17
Goal: Shut out the Giants for 2 minutes.
Cost: 140 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Headband 2 (+2 Coverage)
Shockey is the only real worry here. Make sure your defense puts your best DB on him. The Giants will go for short passes and runs and try to use their speed to get by you. If you have a big linebacker, use him to knock some of the smaller Giants around and try to jar the ball loose. Zone is a good defense for the Giants. If you get a turnover, do your best to use all four downs. Wait at least 5 seconds before snapping the ball to eat more time. 
Challenge 18
Goal: Beat the Redskins to 250,000 Style Points.
Cost: 140 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Gloves 2 (+2 Catching)
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. If your QB can pass, throw some deep balls using Style Passes. This will take you a few offensive drives, but it's not hard to do. To win, you need to score 250,000 before the Redskins, which means you need to keep the 'Skins from making you look foolish. For that reason, play soft defense. A big play means big Style Points which means bad things for you. Stop them from earning style and you are golden.
Challenge 19
Goal: The Giants have a Gamebreaker. Stop them from scoring on their first drive.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points, Gear - Basketball Shorts 8
Stopping an opponent with a Gamebreaker is all about forcing a turnover. Despite their enhanced status, players are still prone to fumbles, so hit hard. Play against short yardage. If your opponent wants to air it out, your chances of stopping them are minimal anyway. Take control of your hardest hitting player (likely your linebacker) and spy on the QB. If they pass, run to the receiver and try a Defensive Power Tackle when they catch the ball. If it's a run, try and tackle the running back from the side.
Challenge 20
Goal: Get 3 User Picks against the Eagles and win the game to 36 points.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points
Do this challenge when your DBs have great Cover and Agility ratings. Even though the Eagles have a good running game, call only pass coverage plays. Yes, you need to stop the Eagles and win, but you also have to intercept three passes. Give yourself the best chance possible by keeping a safety in zone and playing some deep man with your corners. Take control of your best DB. If the pass is going somewhere else on the field, quickly switch to the closest defender. Jump in front of the receiver to try and snag the ball.
Challenge 21
Goal: Beat the Cowboys in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Cowboys' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Cowboys in a straight-up match. 
Challenge 22
Goal: Beat the Giants in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Giants' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Giants in a straight-up match.
Challenge 23
Goal: Beat the Eagles in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Eagles' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Eagles in a straight-up match.
Challenge 24
Goal: Beat the Redskins in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Redskins' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Redskins in a straight-up match.
NFC Challenge: AFC South 
Challenge 1
Goal: Be ahead of the Titans after 12 plays.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Athletic Shorts 4
The goal is to be ahead of the Titans after 12 plays, which means that if you are tied or behind after the 12th play, you fail. Twelve plays is too many to try and run down on your first offensive series, however, you can seriously cut into the amount of plays remaining by running the ball on each down. Short runs can get you to the end zone in 8-10 plays. Milk as many plays as possible. If you give the Titans 4 plays or fewer to score, play a soft deep zone to keep them from the quick strike.
Challenge 2
Goal: Be ahead in Style Points over the Jaguars after 20 plays.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Team Logo - Skulls
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. If your QB can pass, throw some deep balls using Style Passes. Of course, the more plays you have the ball for, you may think, the more chances you have for points. But big plays offer bigger Style Points if you use the Style Button while performing them. Your job is to tackle the Jags the first time. It's only by letting them slip a tackle or beat a defender deep that they have any chance of winning, no matter how many more plays they get than you.

Challenge 3
Goal: Dive with Style into the end zone on your first drive.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Camo Shorts
This is easy thanks to your running back. The only trick is that the goal is not to drive for a touchdown, but to Style Dive for one. That means when you get to the goal line, you've got to leap across. If you don't or if you catch a pass in the end zone, the challenge is failed. 
Challenge 4
Goal: On your first drive against the Texans, score a TD and complete 1 Style Pass.
Cost: 20 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Gear - Basketball Jersey 6
You can call passes or run plays on your way to your first TD, but you need one Style Pass completed somewhere along the way. Make that your very first play. Go for a short pass, back your QB up to get more spacing (Style Passes are usually low throws) and hold down the Style Button as you pass. The Titans are big and make running less effective, so focus 60/40 pass/run.
Challenge 5
Goal: On your first drive, rush for a TD against the Texans.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play - Bash
Some challenges are hard, some are versus the Texans. Note how small the seven Texans are on the field. Run, run, run. If you've been doing the divisions in order, this one will be a stroll through the park (over the bodies of the Houston Texans, of course). Be sure to call a run play when you score.
Challenge 6
Goal: Be ahead of the Colts after 10 minutes.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 100 Dev Points, Offensive Play - Quick Pitch
The Colts have a high-powered offense, as anyone with working eyes can tell (heck, even the blind can see Manning has a cannon). However, they are small up front and can be run on. There's a lot of time on the clock and Manning will call plays very quickly, even quicker than you. For this reason you need to switch to the defender you want to control as soon as possible. You'll also need to play ball control and eat up the clock. Take off as much time as possible before snapping the ball. So long as you're ahead, you are ultimately in control. Save your Gamebreaker for defense. Remember, Manning is a passer and the CPU will use that much more than Edgerrin James. 
Challenge 7
Goal: Stop the Jaguars from scoring a TD on their 1st possession.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
It's time to show your defensive colors. Offense means nothing this time around so put your weakest defenders on the D-Line. Put your fastest defensive lineman in as linebacker if your current LB isn't as good a tackler. You should concentrate on short pass protection and the run. You don't have to prevent a first down, but you do have to stop of the Jags from getting into the end zone. Since Brunell is, well, not very mobile, send one man on a blitz every other down to keep pressure and possibly force a turnover.
Challenge 8
Goal: Get 3 User Sacks and beat the Titans in a game to 30.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points
Take control of your best lineman. Put pressure by using blitz packages. The MLB Blitz play is a good one if you've unlocked it. Keep coming at the QB until you earn the sack. Even if they manage to score some points on you or some big plays, the only thing that matters is your ability to get a sack. Hold down the Turbo Button and tap the Spin/Rip Button even before the snap so that the minute the ball is hiked you can push on the O-Line for a chance at the QB. The Bears pass a lot, so you should have plenty of opportunities.

Challenge 9
Goal: Score 15,000 Style Points on your very first play against the Colts.
Cost: 40 Tokens
Rewards: 220 Dev Points, Gear - Baggy Pants 3
If your running back has solid skills, this one shouldn't be too tough. Start with an option running play and have your QB perform a Style move, then toss to the RB who then must bust a long run with some sweet style. If you fail, it's just a matter of trying again.
Challenge 10
Goal: Calling only pass plays, complete 3 passes in a row and beat the titans in a game to 24.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points
Don't try this unless you have a decent passing game. You can only call passing plays, but your QB can make a run for it. You can rush for the TD if you do so on a called passing play, but you must complete three passes in a row, at some point, to complete the challenge. A sack or drop will end the consecutive pass count. Get the catches out of the way, because the field is too short to hope for a lot of opportunities. Go for short passes. Once those are squared away, call a deep play and run if a lane opens.
Challenge 11
Goal: Score 2 rushing TDs, 2 passing TDs, 1 defensive TD, and beat the Titans in a game to 44.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 480 Dev Points, Gear - Camo Pants 2
The Titans have a good D, but you can do this one. To reach 44 you need six TDs, with two 2-point conversions. If you're gonna score all those TDs, it shouldn't be difficult to make two rushing and two passing TDs. Unfortunately you also have to score a defensive TD. Play the lanes in zone and hope for a pick. Use your linebacker and try to slam into ball carriers from the side to force a tumble. Once you have the turnover, do whatever you must to score. Pitch like crazy if need be, but get in the end zone.
Challenge 12
Goal: Beat the Jaguars by 10 in a game to 30.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: 580 Dev Points, Gear - Basketball Shorts 11
Good thing the Jags aren't the best ream around. Don't try this one until your defense can bring it with solid hits and excellent coverage. You can't win this without forcing at least one turnover. If the Jags get more than 25 points, it's mathematically over. Don't let them. Use the run and jam it down their throat. Control the game with the run. Go for 1-point conversions, as they are easier to guarantee. Save your Gamebreaker for defense and use it to get that one necessary turnover from the Jaguars. Blitz often to put pressure on Brunell.
Challenge 13
Goal: Get at least 10 1st downs and beat the Texans in a game to 30.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Gloves (+1 Carrying)
This isn't as easy as it seems. There are only three first down markers on the entire field so big plays will actually hurt you. Go out of bounds each time you pass the first down marker so you can maximize the numer of first downs you can manage.
Challenge 14
Goal: Beat the Colts to 150,000 Style Points.
Cost: 80 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Armband 4 (+1 Blocking)
Forget about scores and being conservative, this baby is all about style. By now your running back should have a good Carry rating, which will keep you from fumbling whenever you try to shake your lovemaker. This will take you several offensive drives, because the field is so short, but it's not hard to do. To win, you need to score 150,000 before the Colts, which means you need to keep the Colts from making you look foolish. For that reason, play soft defense. A big play means big Style Points which means bad things for you. Stop them from earning style and you are golden. Stay in pass coverage at all times.
Challenge 15
Goal: Sack the Texans 5 times and beat them in a game to 30.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points
Take control of your best lineman. Put pressure by using blitz packages. The MLB Blitz play is a good one if you've unlocked it. Keep coming at the QB until you earn the sack. Even if they manage to score some points on you or some big plays, the only thing that matters is your ability to get a sack. Hold down the Turbo Button and tap the Spin/Rip Button even before the snap so that the minute the ball is hiked you can push on the O-Line for a chance at the QB. The Texans only pass during this challenge, so don't fall for the play action.
Challenge 16
Goal: Get 2 User Picks and beat the Colts in a game to 28.
Cost: 120 Tokens
Rewards: 760 Dev Points, Team Logo - Twisters
Do this challenge when your DBs have great Cover and Agility ratings. Even though the Colts have James and a good running game, call only pass coverage plays. Yes, you need to stop the Colts and win, but you also have to intercept two passes. Give yourself the best chance possible by keeping a safety in zone and playing some deep man with your corners. Take control of your best DB. If the pass is going somewhere else on the field, quickly switch to the closest defender. Jump in front of the receiver to try and snag the ball.
Challenge 17
Goal: On the current drive, intercept the ball and return it for a defensive TD against the Texans.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points
This one may take a number of tries to complete. Not only must you get a pick, but you must then return it for a TD. It's not as easy as it sounds. Leave two men on the line and drop everyone else back in coverage. There will be no run plays in this challenge. Short zone works, but be ready to take control of the safety if a wideout tries to go deep. Once you have the pick, a lot is left up to luck as you need to get the ball without having to dive for it and then get some momentum towards the endzone so you can juke your way to a score.
Challenge 18
Goal: Get 5 picks against the Jaguars and beat them in a game to 36.
Cost: 160 Tokens
Rewards: 1120 Dev Points, Gear - Baseball Jersey 4
This challenge is not recommended for anyone who wants to stay sane. It's hard and a lot of it comes down to fortunate breaks. Don't play the run, don't blitz. Stay in tight man coverage the entire time.
Challenge 19
Goal: Come back from being down 20 and beat the Jaguars in a game to 30.
Cost: 200 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Armband 6 (+3 Blocking)
Again defense will be your savior here. You begin with the ball and you must score on each possession. The Jag's D is vulnerable, particularly to the pass. Your goal is to fill your Gamebreaker by the time you score your second TD, then use that Gamebreaker on defense to get the ball back. The Jags need two TDs to win, but with a good D you can stop them from getting a single one. Blitz Brunell like you're a bull and he's a red cape. Hit him enough times and he'll fumble for you.
Challenge 20
Goal: Outlast the Colts in a marathon game to 100.
Cost: 200 Tokens
Rewards: Impact Gear - Impact Headband 3 (+3 Coverage)
Holy mother of Moses! This is the most insane challenge in NFL Street, which explains why it is the last unique challenge. It's tough to beat the Colts to begin with, but now you must do it in a game that could take you an hour to play. First tip: Don't lose. Seriously, there is nothing more demoralizing than playing for 45 minutes only to lose on the last play. If you are gonna do this challenge, you have to know you are going to win. Gamebreakers play a huge part in this contest. If you can double up the Colts in GBs, this one is yours for the taking. Focus on stopping the passing game. Yes, James will run on you sometimes, but Manning to Harrison is your biggest threat. The best thing you can do is take a breat after every 40 points are score (total from both teams). Pause the game, get a snack, let your thumbs rest for a minute, and return refreshed. You need to be sharp when it gets down to the wire. And that takes a long time.
Challenge 21
Goal: Beat the Colts in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Colts' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Colts in a straight-up match.
Challenge 22
Goal: Beat the Jaguars in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Jaguars' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Jaguars in a straight-up match.
Challenge 23
Goal: Beat the Texans in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Texans' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Texans in a straight-up match. 
Challenge 24
Goal: Beat the Titans in a game to 24.
Cost: 760 Tokens
Rewards: Choose a player from the Titans' roster
Read the Teams section of this guide to see how to beat the Titans in a straight-up match. 
 

Ladder Mode: Teams: 
Teams: AFC/Extra 
AFC West
Kansas City Chiefs
Suggested Roster
Trent Green (QB/DL)
Eric Hicks (OL/DL)
Priest Holmes (RB/DB)
Will Shields (OL/DL)
Dante Hall (WR/DB)
Mike Maslowski (OL/LB)
Greg Wesley (WR/DB)
Playing As: The Chiefs have several decent WRs on their roster, but the overall best choice is Hall. He has the hands, the route, and the best speed known to man. He will make a few catches with precise grabbing, and he can outrun the best of the best in the DB department. If you're more of an offensive player, you can lose Maslowski for Kennison to have a better chance for that tactful offense of Green's rocket arm to come into play, but the choice is all yours. It is the best for balanced players (which make up the majority) to choose the Linebacker instead. Priest Holmes is the ultimate pushing 'back that will stiff arm a Defensive Lineman to the ground, all the while hopping over a lifeless DB on the ground, and run it all the way in for the score. Extra thick LBs, or guys like Simeon Rice on the D-Line can only stop Holmes. Hicks and Shields provide the blocking and pass rushing, although Hicks can work well in most situations. He's a great run-stopper on 3rd down that will not give up until the opposing player is down for a loss, but that's only when he breaks the line from the side. Wesley will provide solid protection, and tip a lot of passes that come his way.
Playing Against: The main thing to remember when you are playing the Chiefs is that their WRs can be really flaky on drives. They can get into a groove, and score all day long, or they can be simply out of whack on an entire drive, giving you tons of opportunities to snatch the ball away from them. Do this, and get possession back. Green also coughs up a lot of picks under pressure, and is a sack masters dream. Take him down really hard and unexpectedly for a flying forced fumble towards their End Zone. The only real threat on the offense is that of Holmes, who can be absolutely deadly throughout the entire game, if you allow your LBs and the D-Line to lighten up on the guy. Do not be fooled by the Play Action after several consecutive successful runs, as the Chiefs tend to pull a lot of Play Action, especially when backing a Holmes and Gonzalez duo. Aggressive defense is the best way to stop the team from pulling off miracle runs, or lucky catches. Don't be afraid to take chances with your DBs, as well as your offense when you're playing the Chiefs. Try launching a missile into the sky on the offense, and see if your guys can pull off some touchy football techniques to get ahead of the light defenders. If you WRs are big guys, leave all of the work up to them. It's all about risky football.

Oakland Raiders
Suggested Roster
Charles Woodson (OL/DB)
Tim Brown (WR/DB)
Charlie Garner (RB/LB)
Rich Gannon (QB/DL)
Lincoln Kennedy (OL/DL)
John Parrella (OL/DL)
Rod Woodson (WR/DB)
Playing As: When playing as the Oakland Raiders, you will want to stock up on coverage. After all, with both of the Woodson boys on one team, you could pick off John Elway 7 times in one game. These guys are pure stealthy coverage, popping up out of nowhere to give the QB a little scare as they tip the ball. Without a solid LB, you can use Garner to attempt to grab the ball that was swatted away by one of the Woodson guys. After all, Garner is a great weapon on the offensive side for catching, and he can definitely grab a ball that is in mid-air. Out of the three great receivers on the team, the best balanced is Brown, one of the best receivers in the history of the sport. If you'd like to give the ball to Rice, go on ahead, but he does not run as fast as he used to. Gannon has a cannon, and he can unload it right through a tiny gap in the defense. Chances are, the DBs won't even recognize the play, and the Linebacker(s) will be too slow to catch up to Brown, who can be speedy and wily at times in certain situations. Your line should hold up wonderfully on the offense, and rush the pass just enough to give the ball over to one of the Woodsons.
Playing Against: Never, ever let the explosive offense of having Rice and Brown get to you, as most human players will take out Rod Woodson for Jerry Rice. You can counter them and Gannon by looking around the field to see who is open and when. The Raiders rely too much on their passing game when being controlled by the CPU, so try to ignore the movements of Garner. Chances are that if he gets the ball, it will be because Gannon planted it on him. You must have two good DBs when you are playing against the Raiders, as your 'backs will help you contain the long passes that Gannon occasionally bombs out for a few yards over the first down. This is the best time to pick Gannon off, as Rice has lost a step from a few years ago, and Brown may be out of place (although that jump is killer, so beware). If the defense is playing both of the Woodsons, be careful when throwing it out of the middle, and only throw it to the receiver that Rod Woodson is covering when your receiver has completely lost Rod in the midst of all of the action on the field. The Raiders are weak against the run, so exploit it as much as possible with a simple, grade school running game.

San Diego Chargers
Suggested Roster
Drew Brees (QB/DL)
Donnie Edwards (OL/LB)
Quentin Jammer (WR/DB)
LaDainian Tomlinson (RB/DB)
David Boston (WR/DB)
Marcellus Wiley (OL/DL)
Toniu Fonoti (OL/DL)
Playing As: The Chargers have a decent team of a bunch of underrated guys that can make a big play when the time comes. With Brees at Quarterback, you will want to perform a few sly moves like hooks, that way Boston can come up and grab the ball for a short gain. The Brees/Boston pair works well on hooks, as well as large slants that travel out past the first down marker. Of course, you can choose to short pass again for the first down, or hand it off to one of the most impressive backs in the league in Tomlinson. The best thing about having Tomlinson is that, unlike Marshall Faulk or Clinton Portis, Tomlinson is not slick or slippery when it comes to the defend wrapping him up. It's simply very, very hard to bring the big guy down. His leg strength can help him scoot past the biggest LBs in the game, and he will simply torment even the best Defensive Linemen in the game. The defensive players on the squad are simply wonderful for picks. Jammer tends to push his opponent into a corner to throw them off of their target, and get the pick. Meanwhile, Edwards is the prime example of a fast Linebacker doing his job on the left, center, and right sides of the field. If your opponent throws a missile, it's going to go straight into Donnie's hands.
Playing Against: The main threat on the offense is Tomlinson. You will have a tough time bringing him down behind the line of scrimmage, so we suggest that you mix up your defenses plays, and much like with the Chiefs, take chances by bringing up a Blitz to pound the runner. Pay close attention to the formation of the offensive, and if you can sense the run, you should Blitz the outside corners for some popping pressure. As for Brees, while his arm is pretty accurate, his arm strength is zilch. Pick him off whenever he throws the ball up for grabs, and have a nice return on it, to boot. As for getting by the defenses, try to lure Donnie Edwards in for the sack by running out of the pocket, as if you are going to run with your QB. Proceed to pass it to the nearest, clearest receiver to pick up the yards you need. Wiley is very tough on the run, and is a pass rusher to the extreme. If you can get a huge guy like Orlando Pace to guard him, you should be all right. Be very wary of Jammer, as he can really ruin a good drive and take the ball all the way back for the TD. Make your receiver shake him before you throw.

Denver Broncos
Suggested Roster
Jake Plummer (QB/DL)
Trevor Pryce (OL/DL)
Clinton Portis (RB/DB)
Deltha O'Neal (WR/DB)
Rod Smith (WR/DB)
Ian Gold (OL/LB)
Daryl Gardener (OL/DL)
Playing As: The Broncos have one of the best offenses, as well as one of the best defenses in the game. Starting off, Clinton Portis can shift into the game itself to suit better as a tricky Runningback that can fake plays, throw passes as well as Charlie Garner, and have an overall added toss effect that gives him the edge on the LBs that are waiting for him. He can be the ultra-fast Runningback that can squeeze through several LBs or Defensive Linemen at once, and his receptions are well appreciated on the Reel It In-like plays, as well as Play Action. Plummer is a stellar QB that has a rocket of an arm, and will deliver a scorching pass to Smith for a long, long play. Speaking of Smith, he is amongst the best when it comes to grabbing and going. If you launch the ball to Smith, and he catches it, he's bound to be off to the races, if you use your Turbo correctly. The defense is amazing on stopping the run, with Gardener, Pryce, and Gold all hugging the line on Blitz plays where you know that the offense will run it in. Gold is perfection whenever he has a big Lineman to block the OL that is near the RB, and he will punish the 'back for looking in his direction. The same goes for Mobley, although if you're looking for a pass picker, try Wilson in the spot. Worried about the QB sneaking a pass on the Play Action? You shouldn't be, as O'Neal is a premier picker in the league, and will run the ball as hard as possible after he has it. Just look out for those fumbles after the INT.
Playing Against: When you are up against the Broncos' offense, you better come prepared with two Linebackers that can run extremely fast, as you will need them for both coverage purposes, and to Blitz Portis whenever he is looking to attack the D-Line. You will want to shift your two Defensive Ends to their outside regions, that way they can take Portis out from either side. Of course, he will toss the ball off to Plummer, who will then get sacked by your Blitzing Linebackers. As for the throwing game, you will need to have a very strong DB to pull Smith down to the ground after the catch. John Lynch works well, as does Roy Williams. Your objective should not be to break through the line of Defense, but rather create a diversion to attract the QB to his primary receiver, who you should then pick off like a bullet. As for the defensive side of things, look near the sidelines for a catch on the line, and break away from the DB. If the Safety/O'Neal gets near you, toss the ball off to the closest receiver right as he hits the current receiver. You should be able to run this in for the TD easily. Use a strong Runningback in a game like this to get the best of the D-Line, and be sure to flip your plays for the trick on the LB, regardless of which it is.

AFC East
Buffalo Bills
Suggested Roster
Drew Bledsoe (QB/DL)
Eric Moulds (WR/DB)
Ruben Brown (OL/DL)
Lawyer Milloy (WR/DB)
Pat Williams (OL/DL)
Travis Henry (RB/DB)
Takeo Spikes (OL/LB)
Playing As: Simply put, Bledsoe has a cannon of an arm that could take the head off of a bunny. But we wouldn't aim at bunnies, because they're not Eric Moulds, the top WR for the Bills, and the main target for the Touchdown. The great thing about Moulds is how his hands are like glue, much like Marvin Harrison. If you can throw to Moulds, and he grips a grip on it, there is very little chance that the ball will come loose afterwards. Moulds is the ideal receiver for Bledsoe, who delivers a pass with slow release, but quick arrival. As for the Linebacker situation, both Fletcher and Spikes are just as good at what they do, but Spikes gets the call due to his better coverage skills. He hits like a train when the RB comes to town, and he can chase and tackle the fresh receiver to break him in. Out of all of those great DBs, we will want to give the ball to Milloy, due to some pretty sweet INTs that the guy can make near the Red Zone. Your line is pretty decent, with Williams and Brown working as the lead blockers and can easily push the big guys down once they're coming toward you. The running game is not too much of a good thing for the Bills, as Henry is inconsistent throughout most drives, although he can have a breakout run to the End Zone if you keep chugging him along.
Playing Against: First thing's first: you will want to bring the heat towards Bledsoe. If you're using a team like Tampa Bay, pile the line with all of your Defensive Linemen, and Blitz using your LB on the line. This will pressure Bledsoe, and he will delay in getting the ball off to the receiver. Easy sacks are enjoyable when you're playing the Bills. Stopping Travis Henry will not be too hard, although he has his games where he can run all over your big Linebackers and shoot straight for the End Zone. Depending on what DBs are being used against you, watch your back. If Milloy or Clements is in, make sure that you send your receiver in with a hook before launching it over the side. If Takeo Spikes is on the LB position, get ready for more Blitzing plays. If it happens to be London Fletcher, look for the Zone defense more often, as Fletcher has sweet hands. If Moulds becomes a problem, use plays where two DBs or the LB and one DB guard just him alone. You can always take control of your Safety to knock him out of the game, or better yet, steal his reception from him.

New York Jets
Suggested Roster
Chad Pennington (QB/DL)
Wayne Chrebet (WR/DB)
Sam Cowart (OL/LB)
Curtis Martin (RB/DB)
Kevin Mawae (OL/DL)
John Abraham (OL/DL)
Donnie Abraham (WR/DB)
Playing As: The Jets have a pretty solid team that you can mix and match for several positions, including WR and LB. Chrebet is a safe bet for a receiver that can catch even the most awful of throws, hence why he gets the starting job rather than the other WRs on the team. If Pennington's throw is off by a mile, Chrebet will, at the very least, attempt to grab the ball. As for Cowart, his hard tackles can knock the ball loose from a small receiver, or a medium-sized Tight End, and he fits with the defensive program better. The main baler on the team is the great Curtis Martin, who can eat away at the yards by himself alone, little by little. Pennington is a stellar QB that has really developed over the past few years, and you should be thankful for that, as John Abraham plays an alright O-Lineman in comparison with Mawae. He will give up a sack or two, but he's worth being on the team for his fight through the Offensive Line on the opposite side of the ball. He edges Ellis out for the position, as he can fight through the line to reach the QB slightly better than Ellis can. Pennington is known for coughing up a few INTs, but if you simply throw it rather than throwing it as hard as possible. Donnie Abraham is the lone Defensive Back on the squad, and he's fairly decent, so there's no reason not to bring him aboard. 
Playing Against: As stated from the "Playing As" part of the New York Jets strategy, the worst part about the team is Pennington's ability to throw a few picks every now and then. As always, exploit every weakness in the offense, as NFL Street is a mainly offense-influenced game. If you can eliminate the QB from the game early on, you can gain two to three scores on the opponent before the QB can recuperate. Remember that, while Chrebet is dangerous and Curtis Martin is the driving force, they cannot be thrown to if their QB is having a bad day. Martin prefers to be thrown to, and if you rock the QB by crashing the line and bringing the Safety to the receivers in the back, half of the offense is out of the game, especially with how flaky Pennington can be. A big Safety and a good run-stop LB are preferred on defense against the Jets. As for the offensive side, you can easily get the ball by Donnie Abraham, if you try hard enough, and you're throwing with both precision and strength. Just wait for your key receiver to get open, and launch it at him once Abraham is slightly off to the side of the receiver. If you throw it in the direction that the receiver is running, and from that direction, as well (i.e. your receiver travels right, and so does your QB), you will easily beat Abraham out. Place a solid Tackle to take on John Abraham on the line, and watch out for Curtis Martin on defense. Yes, it sounds crazy, but he can make a good play when he's needed.

New England Patriots
Suggested Roster
Tom Brady (QB/DL)
Troy Brown (WR/DB)
Richard Seymour (OL/DL)
Antowain Smith (RB/DB)
Ty Law (WR/DB)
Rosevelt Colvin (OL/LB)
Damien Woody (OL/DL)
Playing As: The Patriots have a really, really good Offensive Line with Woody backing up the QB, while Seymour blocks for the Runningback, Smith. The D-Line is very solid, as well, although Brady is a pushover. There is nothing too characteristic regarding the D-Line, as they're just a strong force that enjoys the run-stoppage plays, and Seymour can destroy a QB very quickly, with precision of a huge LB coming in for the wrap-up sack. Speaking of QBs, yours is damn good. Brady is a hard passer than is highly accurate with his passing, resembling that of Favre's gameplay in NFL Street. You can bomb in over the sideline, in bounds, for the catch, or you can deliver a rocket to your star receiver, Brown, and he can easily shake defenders. Brown is a fairly big guy that can jump as good as anybody in the league, even when defended. He will likely come up with the ball on those throws, as well. Smith is a decent 'back, but he doesn't carry enough stamina to go through the entire drive on runs alone. The D will figure out his movements and cut him down in the backfield. He's a pretty good receiver, though, so try him on the short pass off of the side. It is best to use Law as one of your Corners, as he is great with man-to-man coverage, and picking off any balls that go to that receiver. He is also decent on the Corner Blitz, although his tackling is shoddy. Only Blitz with Law if you, the user, are taking control of him for the tackle.
Playing Against: On the Defensive Line, you will definitely want to adjust your best O-Lineman to block Seymour, as he is the main threat on the line itself. Woody will not put up much of a struggle on the D-Line, but be on the watch for Law breaking thru the corner to reach the QB on a Corner Blitz play, as he is extremely fast. Thankfully, even your QB can stiff-arm the poor guy to knock him to the ground. You can easily beat out his hit, if you know he's coming, and feel free to throw to the guy that he would have been covering. Law is a hurtful player at the Safety position, as his hands are tough to get by. Even if he doesn't grab it, which he will at least attempt to, he will tip it unless it is completely over his head. The sad part? He can jump fairly well to pick you off. As always, use misdirection plays to get the mismatch that you need. Your receiver can leap over Law's attempted tackle and run it in for the TD. On the offense, you will want to destroy Brady while he has the ball. Much like Favre and Bledsoe, his release is somewhat delayed in the game, and you can jitter the ball loose because of this, especially if it is right before he releases the ball, that way it will be a fumble. Just play your DL to crash through the middle to reach him easily. Brown has a bad presence on the field for you, so be sure to cover him whenever he starts going long with your Safety, and jam him the very moment that he comes down. He will likely drop the incomplete pass. Smith should be a bonus of stopping, after you crash through the Offensive Line, as we suggested earlier. 

Miami Dolphins
Suggested Roster
Ricky Williams (RB/DB)
Jay Fieldler (QB/DL)
Sam Madison (WR/DB)
Jason Taylor (OL/DL)
Junior Seau (OL/LB)
Chris Chambers (WR/DB)
Tim Ruddy (OL/DL)

Playing As: While the Dolphins have QB issues, it is pretty apparent that Fieldler is the man to go with, as he is consistent throughout the game, rarely throws an INT, and he can avoid the sack a lot better than Griese can. Plus, he's more accurate, although his arm is cut short in comparison. Trust me, you'll want to have more accuracy than the ability to let the ball fly on silver wings. Your big weapons with the Dolphins are Williams, your very large RB that can cut through several stacks of defenders with stiff arms and leaps, and Taylor, who can destroy all O-Lineman in the game. He can also murder the QB, so be on the lookout for the forced fumble. Taylor can perform soft sacks, where he merely taps the QB to the ground, and "Oh My God, Is He Dead?" sacks, where you recite those words. He's also pretty good on the O-Line, as well, wrestling with the big guys that crowd up the field. Ruddy is the choice over Dixon for statistics alone. Plus, he's a big guy that can flatten the majority of D-Linemen in the league. Seau and Thomas are a give and take type of choice. Once again, due to better statistics in Tackling, which is why most of gamers even have LBs to begin with, Seau has won the IGN Starting LB For The Dolphins Award, if it exists. But if you're looking for an INT, put in Thomas, as his hands are much better than Seau's. Lastly, Madison will keep your DBs in line with excellent coverage all around the field. Like most good DBs, this guy is purely man-to-man.
Playing Against: Obviously, it all depends on what QB the player or CPU takes, although it will likely be Fieldler. Just simply wait for him to bomb one up in the air near the Red Zone, and take it away from the WR (likely the big man, Chambers). Chambers will likely tap it, and you should take your Safety to charge in and snatch it from mid-air. If you are against Griese, you can use a good DB at the LB position, as well as the Safety position. If you have several guys that can tackle decently, and they have good hands, you should be able to easily stop the passing game. As for the running game, Williams is a very big guy for an RB, so you will not want to have little DBs at the LB position if Fieldler is starting. Williams will run all over you with a DB playing Linebacker, but the picks from Griese are worth it to stay that way. Guys like London Fletcher can easily take Williams out, as they are very tough. For the defense, Taylor will rush the pass, and Seau enjoys Blitzing. If you are up against Thomas instead of Seau, do not short pass. Of course, Sam Madison can punish you on the long ball, but try running a dual receiver route, where the WRs are side by side, and launch it out there. This should trick Madison and the other defenders well enough to catch the pass.

AFC North
ittsburgh Steelers
Suggested Roster
Jerome Bettis (RB/DB)
Tommy Maddox (QB/DL)
Plaxico Burress (WR/DB)
Aaron Smith (OL/DL)
Alan Faneca (OL/DL)
Kendrell Bell (OL/LB)
Joey Porter (WR/DB)
Playing As: Considering that the Steelers do not have a solid DB on their roster, we will want to bring in an extra LB with Porter, who has the best coverage amongst the LBs, and his catching abilities are just as good as the league average. Our QB is Tommy Maddox, that XFL MVP guy. His range is pretty good, especially if you can find Burress wide open near the Red Zone. Maddox seems like the QB that is absolutely comfortable with the long pass, as the ball rarely bombs down into a crowd of defenders. Bettis is a veteran that is big. And by "big," we mean "Linebacker big." This guy is the thickest RB in the league, and they do not call him "The Bus" for nothing. This guy can truck over Defensive Linemen as if they were DBs on the Blitz. Easy stuff for little yardage, as Bettis is not as fast as guys like Portis or Alexander when in the backfield. Regardless, the reason that you will have points on the board is partly due to Jerome's plowing techniques. Smith and Faneca are average on the D-Line, but their Offensive tactics gel fairly decent, making them the ideal pair at the lines. Porter works decently as a WR, although you can replace him with another receiver, if you are too offensive friendly.
Playing Against: The Steelers come out fairly strong with a good passer and a great RB, but the thing that wears them down is the fact that Burress has troubles getting open several times throughout the drives. This will be the key weakness in their offense, as Maddox can throw really well, and Bettis can break through a tough D-Line. The main line-up to bring out would be an INT LB, and a tackling LB, with the INT LB playing as the Safety while the tackling LB Blitzes the runningback before he can take off. Your DBs should provide enough coverage against Burress, as long as you have one star on your team. To break through the O-Line on defense, you should crash the side that the out-of-position DL is guarding, and break through to Maddox. Maddox is calm, though, and will rarely choke up an INT over a defender coming after him. He will fumble frequently, though, so be on the lookout for that. Getting over the defense will not cause too many problems, but Porter is good for the coverage squads, and Bell will just plain rock your RB or your receiver after the catch. He hits harder than most of the LBs in the game, and hard hits equal big plays for their defense. Try some Play Action to catch him off-guard for the End Zone strike.

Cleveland Browns
Suggested Roster
Gerard Warren (OL/DL)
Kevin Johnson (WR/DB)
Kelly Holcomb (QB/DL)
William Green (RB/DB)
Andra Davis(OL/LB)
Robert Griffith (WR/DB)
Courtney Brown (OL/DL)
Playing As: The Browns have a complete lack of Offensive Line, as Tucker gives in to the Blitz too frequently to get the start for our Browns team. Instead, put in Courtney Brown to play in his place. Brown is really good on the D-Line, and average on the O-Line. Warren is your real pride and joy, as he does really well on the Offensive Line, and he can pound right through the opposing team's line to reach the QB, and boy, does he smash the QB into the ground. As for the Holcomb/Couch controversy, it is honestly up to you. Holcomb releases the ball faster than Couch does, which results in less fumbles and sacks, which is why he gets our seal of approval. Willie Green is a decent back that can eat away with little yards at a time, but he's not a real tricky kind of 'back. He is very plain in what he does, and rarely will you see him involved in a massive trick play (if so, however, it will likely be a RB Pass play). Davis is the better of the two LBs on the team, mostly in part due to his coverage skills. A Linebacker that can cover the open field and stop the run is a winner by us. Johnson has some of the best hands in his position, and will make some jaw-dropping diving catches in the End Zone for the score. Griffiths is just a mean, hard-hitting Safety that you will want. He's also good with catching the ball.
Playing Against: When you're against a CPU controlled Browns team, the running game is nearly dead. There's barely a reason to even worry about run Blitzing, as the 'back will not get very far until 4th down, in which you should use Run Stop to pop the 'back in the backfield, or along the side, but just be highly aware of the toss off back to the QB. If you're facing off against Couch, be sure to crowd the line for a quick hit. Corner Blitzes work well against the Quarterback, although this could end up leaving Johnson wide open, which is the last thing you want in this game. It is tough to get through Warren to reach the QB, so gang up on the Blitz with a D-Lineman, a Linebacker, and a Corner coming from the side. The D- Lineman will be stopped by Warren, the LB will be halted by the Runningback Green, and the Corner should reach Couch for a surprise hit. You can easily pick Holcomb off by setting up a Zone play, and take control of your Safety to surprise cover in the opposite direction. Choose a fast QB to get away from Warren, as most players will choose him, and throw it out towards the side after a fake QB run. This will catch Griffith off-guard, and you should hook up with your WR for a nice gain.


Cincinnati Bengals
Suggested Roster
Corey Dillon (RB/DB)
Chad Johnson (WR/DB)
Jon Kitna (QB/DL)
Tony Williams (OL/DL)
Willie Anderson (OL/DL)
Jeff Burris (WR/DB)
Brian Simmons (OL/LB)
Playing As: The Bengals, to be quite frank, have one of the worst squads in the game as an overall team. Their Quarterback situation is flaky, at best, but you should definitely go with Kitna over the rookie Palmer. The best weapon that the entire team has got is Chad Johnson, who can be thrown to over and over again, yet still make the catch. Of course, the main problem is getting the ball to Johnson to make the play. You should shrug off your defenders, as Kitna has decent agility, and attempt a fake run to bring those DBs up to the line. Drop back, and complete the pass to Johnson. If he's still blocked, try Dillon, who can definitely eat away at yards, much like Jamal Lewis can. In fact, use Dillon nearly every other play, if not more. While Johnson is a better player in NFL Street, Dillon can break a simple tackle without even looking the way of the defender. He has raw power combined with a scorching hot streak that allows him to shake defenders when he's on the run. Toss it off to Johnson after a lengthy run for a Touchdown. Your defense leaves a lot to be desired, but Simmons is a decent Linebacker that can defend the pass fairly well, and your line should hold up well when it comes to stopping a pesky running game.
Playing Against: When you're up against the Bengals, your main worry should be the running game. Dillon is the strongest player that they have on their offense that is going to be a threat to you, as you can easily pick Kitna off several times, or bat it away until you turn the ball over on downs, as long as you have the usual DB Safety roster selection on the defense. To stop Dillon, you will want to Blitz the left side with your DB, and leap up to Intercept the toss to Dillon from Kitna. You can easily run this in for the Defensive TD, as no one will be in front of you to stop your big game. Kitna is pretty bad with getting sacked, but sadly, if you attempt to hit Kitna while Dillon is still in the backfield, he will toss it off, and with the majority of your defenders on the pile, Dillon will be off to the races. Tearing through the Bengals defense is like taking candy from a small child. There is hardly any real threat of coverage for picks, so as long as you keep passing short, and then running it for the first down, you should be fine. There's no reason to bomb it out there unless your guy is really, really open.

Baltimore Ravens
Suggested Roster
Ray Lewis (OL/LB)
Jamal Lewis (RB/DB)
Kyle Boller (QB/DL)
Todd Heap (WR/DB)
Chris McAllister (WR/DB)
Jonathan Ogden (OL/DL)
Anthony Weaver (OL/DL)
Playing As: We've got some good news, and some bad news for you Ravens fans. The good news is that you've got Jonathan Ogden, the best O-Lineman in the entire game, to back your QB up! The bad news? Your QB is Kyle Boller, and your back up is Redman. Okay, so it's not too bad, especially with Heap's great hands to help you, but you will not be able to throw a long pass and expect anyone to get to it except the defender. Heap is entirely too slow to be a Corner, so set him up at Safety and allow McAllister to do his awesome magic on the left side of the field. Heap will also not be able to get downfield to make a huge catch, as he is, once again, entirely too slow. McAllister works as your other receiver, and his speed is noteworthy, but his hands are just not good enough to lob it out over the side for him to reach. Short passing is your friend, even if you have enough protection to throw it long. With QBs like these, you don't need to take any chances. Luckily for you, you've got both of the Lewis sides of the field. Jamal is like a smaller version of Jerome Bettis, in that he can mow over the D-Linemen without worry. His stamina decreases fast, however, so watch those defenders after you're off to the races. Should we mention anything about Ray Lewis except that he's the best Tackling LB in the game, and that he can pick off Play Action passes when he's Blitzing? We didn't think so.
Playing Against: Obviously, your main concern when you're playing the Ravens is "How am I going to stop Lewis? And what about the other Lewis?" And we here at IGN feel your pain. Ray Lewis will absolutely torment your offense with his Blitzes, and his amazing coverage skills. To make matters worse, it is hard to get a ball to McAllister without him at least getting a single hand on it, and we cannot use misdirection runs because of Ray Lewis and his ability to read the play. Your best chance at passing the ball is to bomb it out, and use a tall receiver to leap into the air at the ball's peak. The run is easier to perform, considering you can have an added player to block Lewis can a few seconds while you run through the hole provided. Good thing for you that the Ravens offense is so bad when it comes to the passing game. Just have a couple of great DBs on your team, and snatch the ball away whenever Redman throws it short, or when Boller throws it long. Stopping Jamal Lewis is the tough part, so just watch out for the QB to toss it off to him, and watch out for the double toss if you knock Lewis down. You never know, Ogden could come up with it, and that is a funny site.

AFC South
Jacksonville Jaguars
Suggested Roster
Mark Brunell (QB/DL)
Jimmy Smith (WR/DB)
John Henderson (OL/DL)
Hugh Douglas (OL/DL)
Fred Taylor (RB/DB)
Fernando Bryant (WR/DB)
Mike Peterson (OL/LB)
Playing As: The Jaguars have two good QB options in Brunell and Leftwich, but Brunell gets the official call here. Maybe next year for Leftwich, who knows? Smith has some of the highest statistics in the Catching department, so he's the obvious choice here. This team is full of offensive veterans like Taylor, Smith, and Brunell, all of whom can get the job done quickly. If you're looking for a team that can put points on the board within just a few seconds of the game, the Jaguars are that team. Just bomb a hard pass out for Smith to receive it, and wiggle him free of the defender manually. Run it in for the TD while using your Style points. Taylor is a massive gainer on his running plays, and resembles an older, slower version of Marshall Faulk when it comes to sneaking in between the D-Line to pound the ball in. Bryant is another veteran on the defense that can knock the ball out of the receiver's hands for the incomplete pass, and your Defensive Line is your biggest part of the defense, with excellent collapse from even the best of the Offensive Linemen in the game. Douglas is a terror for any QB, and will bring'em down at the knees. Just watch for the toss off to the halfback, and you should be okay. 
Playing Against: Brunell is a good QB, but his long passes that he used to be excellent at are beginning to fade, and NFL Street remembers this. You will want a good jumping DB, even if he has bad hands, to swat the ball away. Just remember one thing when swatting the ball away from Smith, and that is the fact that Taylor is like near the middle of the field, coming up to grab the deflected pass from the air, and run it in for the Touchdown. You will want to pay close attention to this team's receivers. If your opponent is using Leftwich, just go for the sack and look for the option. The Jags lack a really strong Offensive Linemen, but plow through Douglas to scare the daylights out of Leftwich. Bring in a Blitzing Corner to snatch the toss away from Taylor, and you've got nearly instant points. Their D-Line is scary when you finally get back to the offensive side of things, but if you can manage to throw the option at your back as Douglas attacks your QB, you should be fine. The Jags are weak on the run, as Bryant cannot butt heads with an RB and win the fight. Watch out for Peterson when you throw in the middle, or short passes to the mid-sides. Just be cautious, as his reach is superb.

Houston Texans
Suggested Roster
David Carr (QB/DL)
Andre Johnson (WR/DB)
Stacey Mack (RB/DB)
Seth Payne (OL/DL)
Zach Wiegert (OL/DL)
Aaron Glenn (WR/DB)
Jamie Sharper (OL/LB)
Playing As: You will, of course, take a liking to Andre Johnson, who has some magnificent run speed and catching abilities to get over his defender and make a spectacular reel-in. He has a decent ratio of losing the defender to getting tangled up in the defense, and he is the prime example of a power receiver. He can push over the tiny DBs that attempt to stop him, unless they hit him in a certain area of his body at the right time. Carr is a prodigy that can throw a loose bomb down the field, but it is somewhat risky, His best passes are short ones through the side, or simple pass options. You can run well with Carr for the toss option to Mack, whom is decent in his own right. It is suggested that you unload the pass to Mack in the backfield, and put on the "I'm gonna run to the End Zone" shoes. Be sure that the path is clear before your opponent hits you, as your blocking must be solid on everyone's end. Sharper is a good guy to have over the middle, as his arm extension is good enough for the tip and possible INT, although he lacks the "Take Away" features that guys such as Mike Peterson or even Eric Hicks carry. Glenn will do a great job of getting the INTs, if the ball is about to drop. Your line should be decent on both sides, but nothing to write home about.
Playing Against: Carr is a very sneaky little devil, and he just loves to toss it off with the option. Look for a mix-match with several key players on the Texans, mainly Gaffney and/or Johnson. This team can get tricky on certain drives, using triple toss options with receivers, halfbacks, linemen, and back to the QB. Basically, playing the Texans offense is like watching the trapeze act at the circus. Cuddle the side that the Texans are using the most, and Blitz the living hell out of it with two hard-hitting LBs, or a massive LB with your Safety DB up on the line, but make sure that you have a solid Corner protecting any receivers that come out to play. Glenn is a big weapon trapped inside of a tiny body. This guy can make diving INTs as if they were pass deflections, so be careful when you provide a weak bombing pass out to your key WR that Glenn is guarding. He will easily dive for it so that it does not touch the ground before he has the chance to have possession. Sharpie can be a pain if you have an inaccurate QB under the helm, but he shouldn't give you too many problems with a guy like Brees in.

Tennessee Titans
Suggested Roster
Steve McNair (QB/DL)
Eddie George (RB/DB)
Jevon Kearse (OL/DL)
Samari Rolle (WR/DB)
Derrick Mason (WR/DB)
Albert Haynesworth (OL/DL)
Lance Schulters (OL/LB)
Playing As: You will want to use Lance Schulters as your LB instead of the lone LB, Bullock, as Schulters as a nice pop on the ball for a mid-field pick off, and while his tackling is not as good, he can chase down the runner and eliminate them with the Safety, in which the runningback or receiver may toss it off to another player, bringing up the threat of your Safety, Rolle, can knock the current player with possession out for a possible fumble, or a fumble recovery before the second receiver even witnesses the ball's existence. McNair and George are excellent pairs for the fast option toss, as both are capable of carrying the ball for several yards, so it in unpredictable on the defense with who you will actually use to rush the ball. Haynesworth is actually more valuable than Kearse on both Lines, as he is a multitalented big guy that can take care of his own back with both sides of the ball, and has good leverage with his legs on the big plays that could change the game's pace. Mason is a good receiver that will have to jump to reach most balls, but he is a lot faster than Wycheck, which is why he gets the go. 
Playing Against: Your first objective is to take care of the Steve McNair and Eddie George combo package. They enjoy the toss option plays, and will base their offensive game plan around tossing it back and forth to each other in the backfield until they can find a small hole inside of your defensive line, or along the outer rims of the defense. What we would suggest doing is Blitzing the sides with your Corners, as long as they can wrap up the enemy well, and manually taking your sack-attacking Linebacker through the line to stop the middle. Your Safety will take care of things if they break loose from this defensive assault. Mason is somewhat of a threat, whenever McNair throws the ball towards him. McNair is a direct passer, so his long stuff just does not sit well with the rest of the offense. Regardless, it can easily be successful. On the defense, Kearse can be a monster to your poor QB, as he is very fast, and can easily get around those big O-Linemen that clog the sides. Release the ball to your best receiver in bombing fashion if he gets too close for comfort. Rolle can be a pain, as he is the absolute master of diving for the INT off of his own pass deflection. Talk about annoying. Eliminate him from the game by using a zig-zag play that sends your star receiver in one direction, and snaps back towards the way he just came. This will likely fool Rolle into losing your receiver.

Indianapolis Colts
Suggested Roster
Peyton Manning (QB/DL)
Edgerrin James (RB/DB)
Marvin Harrison (WR/DB)
Rob Morris (OL/LB)
Idrees Bashir (WR/DB)
Tarik Glenn (OL/DL)
Dwight Freeney (OL/DL)
Playing As: Peyton Manning is one of the top three QBs in the game, as his passing statistics are maxed out. This guy can launch a ball with perfect spin through the middle with just enough velocity to get over the defenders' heads, but land right into Marvin Harrison's palms. Speaking of Harrison, if you're using the Colts, congratulations, as you're the biggest offensive threat in the game with Manning to Harrison. Harrison can tip a pass, knock the receiver down, and run to the opposite side of the field to grab the same pass that he deflected, and run it in for the Touchdown. Glenn is a Godsend for the O-Line, while Freeney is a poor Offensive Lineman, but his speed will help him burst through the O-Line when he is playing defense in order to reach the QB for a sack, or a pass rush for the INT from Bashir, whom is decent at pass deflections and average at the occasional INT grab. Morris will hack through the O-Line and bash the runningback before the play begins, which is great for causing a fumble. As for James, using him for the rush is the perfect distraction for the defense when your pass is beginning to slightly falter. As if that's possible.
Playing As: Man, oh man... You've got trouble if you're wanted to outwit Peyton Manning. Most of his bombs that he ships to Harrison that are all the way out to the End Zone from the starting point make it there extremely fast, much like Harrison himself, so picking those off is nearly impossible. However, it is very, very possible to pressure Manning with a sack-absorbing LB (those Defensive Linemen just don't seem to scare him, for whatever reason) to throw a short pass to the second receiver. Manning's short passes are perfect for picking off. As for stopping Harrison, get a really fast DB to guard him, such as Shawn Springs, and tackle him after he has the ball. While his catching is too good to even think of messing with, his hands will crumble if they are shattered with a huge hit. Rod Woodson is a great choice for this type of play, as well. You can easily break through the O-Line to reach Manning from the O-Lineman that is not Glenn. Scoring on the Colts is almost as easy as them scoring on you, thankfully. Freeney provides a great boost to crash through your Offensive Lineman, but he is the only major threat. Morris is too inconsistent with picking up the play, so try some Play Action for a long pass to your RB for some great yardage.

Bonus Teams 
NFL Legends
Suggested Roster
Larry Csonka (RB/DL)
Lester Hayes (WR/DB)
Ronnie Lott (WR/DB)
Walter Payton (QB/DL)
William "Refrigerator" Perry (OL/DL)
Barry Sanders (OL/DB)
Lawrence Taylor (OL/LB)
Playing As: The legends have a solid squad, up and down, but oddly no premier wideouts and three of great running backs. All three of those running backs need to be on your squad and it's your choice who is QB and who is stuck on the line as a blocker, but Csonka tends to be the most effective running. Power through the line, then lateral to Payton or Sanders who will be trailing. You'll get major Style points because you have so many lateral options who can bust hardcore runs. Don't bother throwing a single pass, it's why you have a running back in the QB slot. Call a passing route to send receivers deep and see how open the field becomes for Payton. As he runs, his blocking buddy, Barry Sanders will be nearby for a pitch. Cha + Ching.
Playing Against: The CPU and your buddy will likely use Stabler at QB. He's a great QB, but his receivers don't have stick-em on their hands. Play almost exclusively short pass defenses, because they are viable against the run and the pass. You won't be able to stop the offensive assault of the Legends, but you can slow them down and work for a turnover. Stabler will more than likely be used as the middle D-Linemen. Run it up the gut, right at him, and you can bowl him over almost every time. The DB's on the Legends are lights out, so passing is only viable if you have a man who's clearly open. Otherwise, run it down their throats and force them to make plays. If you have a good running QB, call pass plays to force more defenders into coverage, then take off running.

Kay Slay
Suggested Roster
John Abraham (OL/DL) 
Nate Clements (WR/DB)
DJ Kayslay (OL/DL)
Ray Lewis (OL/RB)
Jeremy Shockey (WR/LB)
Michael Strahan (RB/DL)
LaDanian Tomlinson (QB/DB)
Playing As: You won't be known as a defensive force, but this team is gonna boom with a running game that will shove it down just about anyone's throat. While the roster selection may seem strange, doubling up with two running backs in the backfield makes for a potent offense here. You can power the ball or call passing plays to spread the defense thin and then send Tomlinson to cut through the fools. On defense you'll have a good shot at stuffing the run at almost every turn, but you have one liability and that's at DB with Tomlinson. He has speed but no coverage or tackling skills. However, he can still force receivers out of bounds or slow them until a real defender can come to aid.
Playing Against: No matter who your opponent picks to fill out the roster, this team will be about power. There are two ways to counter power -- more power or speed. Best yet is to have both. Focus more prominently on the run. Even if Manning is in play, he doesn't have the best receivers (just Shockey). Play the run and short passes and accept that from time to time you will get burned deep. The bonus is that Manning has no defensive skills, so when you have the ball, focus on Manning. Many opponents will slot Manning on the D-Line. If so, every run should be right over his face.

X-ecutioners
Suggested Roster
Total Eclipse (RB/DB)
Marvin Harrison (WR/DB)
Roc Raida (WR/DB)
Mike Rucker (OL/DL)
Takeo Spikes (OL/DL)
Rob Swift (QB/LB)
Kyle Turley (OL/DL)
Playing As: This team is ridiculously talented. It's only weakness is in the O-Line, with Kyle Turley the only solid blocker. Run behind Turley is you want to be effective. You have an incredibly potent passing attack thanks to two brilliant wideouts and an unbelievable QB (someone must be very buddy-buddy with the folks at Tiburon). As if that weren't enough, the running game is as sick as the IGN offices after a Christmas party. Balance running and passing. If you can't win with this team, turn in your controller and never play a video game again.
Playing Against: When your buddy isn't looking, disconnect his controller. The X-Ecutioners are more potent than the NFL Legends team, so be ready for a tough challenge. Their offense is incredible, with a running and passing game that could hardly be better. Their weakness is in the O-Line. Blitz on the weak side (that would be the side without Kyle Turley) to disrupt the passing game. Your best option is to torch this team on offense. They have good run defense, but are vulnerable to the pass if you have quality receivers. Use play action to deke your opponent and chuck it for the end zone. Save your Gamebreakers for defense. 
Teams NFC 
NFC West 

St. Louis Rams
Suggested Roster
Kurt Warner (QB/DL)
Marshall Faulk (RB/DB)
Grant Wistrom (OL/DL)
Adam Archuleta (OL/LB)
Torry Holt (WR/DB)
Orlando Pace (OL/DL)
Aeneas Williams (WR/DB)
Playing As: They do not call the Rams the "Greatest Show On Turf" for no reason. This is, arguably, the best offensive squad in the game. On the first and second downs, you can easily tear up the ground game by handing the ball off to Faulk. On average with a balanced Defense against you, you can run over the DBs that come after you while your protection blocks the Linebackers. You can easily gain an average of around 6 yards per carry with Faulk and the proper blocking. Just be on the look out for the Blitz, as if they pick up your game on the CPU, you will need to turn to the Big Air challenge. Not that it is a problem, as we have Torry Holt to throw to. If you decide to include Bruce, even better, although he is not needed, and becomes a "third wheel" on Defense. Bomb it out there, if you need to, but the average pass should consist of 12 yards. Remember to pass the ball to Faulk, as well. This squad is perfect for old fashion offensive football, and you can easily dominate the game without a complex, flashy trick play. As for the Defensive side of the ball, Wistrom is one of the better DLs in the game, as he will burst through the center with speed (and to think that he's even better on the sides). Warner can stay in the middle, as the Pace/Wistrom combination can easily clear those OLs out of the way. Archuleta works wonders at the Linebacker position, as he hits hard and precise with passes towards the middle. Holt has the speed to keep up with the WRs, and Williams keeps the coverage clean.
Playing Against: This is one of the hardest regular teams to stop when you're playing against them. When playing against the CPU, look for the pass. The CPU always tends to lean towards the passing game when using the Rams, even when Faulk racks up the yardage on your squad. Don't casually look for a run after two consecutive running plays without success, as it is bound to be a short pass through the middle to the opposite side, or even worse, a mismatch straight into the middle after a slight slant play. Keep your DBs covering Holt, no matter what, as he can become a definite problem to stop once he has the ball in his hands. As for human players, everyone has preferences, but the majority of gamers use passing plays, and will likely use the Holt/Bruce combo, leaving out (likely) Archuleta. Take advantage of their defensive weakness by shooting a loop through the middle, right into the hands of your WR. Destroy the offense by guarding Holt and looking for patterns in the game plan to Blitz when you believe they're going to put Faulk to good use. Obviously guard Faulk on a Play Action fake through the middle, as he can make some amazing catches. If your opponent chooses the Bruce/Holt combo and leaves out a key member of the defense, pay attention. If Wistrom is missing, hug that side when passing, or exploit the missing member with the run. Gaining yardage is a lot easier than stopping this team when they have the ball.


Seattle Seahawks
Suggested Roster
Shaun Alexander (RB/DB)
Shawn Springs (WR/DB)
John Randle (OL/DL)
Walter Jones (OL/DL)
Koren Robinson (WR/DB)
Matt Hasselbeck (QB/DL)
Chad Brown (OL/LB)
Playing As: The Seahawks can be explosive, if used correctly. If you are playing for passing downs on offense, you will enjoy the amount of freedom that you will have with Koren Robinson along the outer sides of the field at around a 13-15 yard pass attempt. His hands are fairly solid (just watch for those fumbles if you get carried away with showboating), and his speed is highly appreciated. Speaking of speed, Shawn Springs is one of the best players in the game due to his speed. He is a better receiver than even Robinson at times. He is amongst the top DBs in the game, and his speed allows him to zoom past all of the defenders on the offensive side of the ball. Hasselbeck is actually only slightly terrible on the DL, as he has a little bit of leverage with his speed. If there is a hole, he will break through it. The John Randle/Walter Jones combination is deadly on both sides of the field, showing very little give in allowing the D-Line to break through. Just watch out through the middle, as Brown cannot hold up well at the position, but his defensive game makes up for his lackluster offensive performance. Should I even mention how solid the running game is? Try up the middle, or toss plays. You can easily run over blockers, including bigger Linebackers and Defensive Linemen! The power that Alexander contains is awe-inspiring on the field, even when encountering several Blitz plays.
Playing Against: If you plan to crash through the line on Defense, good luck. Thankfully, unless the human player that you're clashing with has Norman Hand thrown into the mix, you can Blitz through the middle to reach Hasselbeck or Dilfer, both of whom are flaky under pressure. Of course, this leaves the center wide open for Springs to snatch something out of mid-air. Speaking of him, watch out when you're on offense. Look for a mismatch to distract him from your wide-out, but even then, you will have to get lucky. If the player is using Reggie Tongue as a substitute for one of the other DBs, he can cause some nasty fumbles that are out of the Red Zone. Otherwise, look to pass to the weak side. Definitely bring a solid Offensive Line on the field if you're playing the Seahawks. If they are stellar enough, and your opponent only has one LB out there, try running the ball before a short pass on third down. The CPU is pretty simple to get through, if you can manage to contain that line. One more thing: regardless of whom you're playing against, never bomb the ball towards Springs. He likes those INTs, and you'll be throwing one.


Arizona Cardinals
Suggested Roster
Jeff Blake (QB/DL)
Emmitt Smith (RB/DB)
Ronald McKinnon (OL/LB)
Leonard Davis (OL/DL)
Anquan Boldin (WR/DB)
Duane Starks (WR/DB)
Wendell Bryant (OL/DL)
Playing As: It's all about Emmitt. And what a wizard Emmitt can be, as well. If you use Smith in trick running plays, you will easily find holes in the defense. One of the suggested types of plays involves using Blake on a Strong Option plays towards one side, and tossing it off to Smith in the backfield to accept the option. Run in the opposite direction that you were running previously to throw off your opponent, and his speed will easily match the Linebackers that chase in his pursuit. While he is wily on the run, you should use him for pass receptions, as he can sneak past any Defensive Backs without a human player knowing. Enough about Emmitt; the entire Offense revolves around solid trick plays. The Cardinals are surprisingly one of the most fun teams to play as, considering they are a solid squad with Starks and Boldin (or Johnson, as it's honestly a toss up between the two receivers) for plays in the middle. As for the defense, you absolutely cannot go wrong with McKinnon in the center of the field for short pass plays. As soon as the receiver has a grip on the ball, knock it loose with a very hard hit by McKinnon, and pick'er up with the closest available player. The line is solid when using Bryant and Davis, on both ends of the ball.
Playing Against: If you have a good offensive squad that can run the ball well, the Cardinals will fold easily. Your main threat is staying away from the Defensive Line when you are passing the ball, and do not go with a short pass if your opponent is using McKinnon. His tackles are precise, and he knocks the ball loose too often. Of course, this could backfire, and while your player fumbles, another receiver of halfback could grab the ball and run it in for the Touchdown. Take control of your Safety and cover the Wide Receiver that the opponent picks, if it is a single position-ready WR, anyway. Blake can throw many-a INT whenever he bombs the ball out to the center rather than putting it on the receiver. While the linemen are very, very big, they can be easily dodged if you are using a fast QB, or even one that has enough speed to get away from the hungry big men. Starks is a solid tackler, for a Defensive Back, but mainly on the pass rather than the run, so exploit the weakness on that given side. The Cards are a solid defensive team, but have far too many common problems, such as coverage, to give you too many problems.


San Francisco 49ers
Suggested Roster
Jeff Garcia (QB/DL)
Terrell Owens (WR/DB)
Garrison Hearst (RB/DB)
Ron Stone (OL/DL)
Tony Parrish (WR/DB)
Julian Peterson (OL/LB)
Bryant Young (OL/DL)
Playing As: Of course the 49ers have an explosive offense, mostly due in part with Terrell Owens. The best thing about having Owens on the field is the fact that he can blaze down the field, lose defenders easily, and write a postcard on the way to the End Zone. Of course, if the DBs are really punishing the poor guy out there by covering him with speed, there is a chance that he will drop the ball after getting tackled. Always look for Owens to be your go-to guy on the 4th down. Picking a Runningback for the 49ers is like picking Heads or Tails on a coin toss; they're both equally as good, just for different reasons. This is based on preference, but Hearst has better Carrying, Catching, and Agility than Barlow does, which allows him to run straight for the Touchdown after he uses that Agility to zig-zag through the line of scrimmage. Young is the most effective weapon on the entire team, as his near perfection in Tackling and D-Moves makes him a terror for even Orlando Pace. Take control of him on Defense, and you will wind up with a good result for your team. Parrish is the best DB out of the bunch, and a worthy wide out when he needs to be. The Niners are a solid team of both sides of the ball, and one of those really big, bad line teams that can rock a QB before they can say, "fumble."
Playing Against: The 49ers are one of the few teams that have really stellar Linebackers without bumped up statistics. They can easily reach the ball from high above, and their diving abilities to get to the ball are too close for comfort. Be highly aware when you are bombing passes out towards the middle, because they can and will take it away from you. The running game is watered down compared to most teams, so a common Run Blitz will take the presence of Barlow or Hearst out of the game from the start. Their misdirection plays are what can really hit the nail in the coffin, as you may direct your attention elsewhere while the fast Terrell Owens can get open downfield. There is a slight possibility that any of the 49ers WRs will drop a wide open pass, but for the most part, they can snatch it straight from the air and blow right through your secondary towards the End Zone. The coverage of Owens is not a good thing for the Niners, so check his side and bomb it out towards the left to escape Owens completely. If he's near, he can pick it off. If there is a struggle for the ball, your receiver will win, and should mow Owens down, taking it all the way in for the TD.

NFC East

Washington Redskins
Suggested Roster
Champ Bailey (WR/DB)
Trung Canidate (RB/DB)
Laveranues Coles (WR/DB)
Lionel Dalton (OL/DL)
Jon Jansen (OL/DL)
Patrick Ramsey (QB/DL)
Ifeanyi Ohalete (OL/LB)
Playing As: First and foremost, the Redskins Linebackers are low in the stat department in comparison to the majority of the teams in the game, so you will definitely want to use Ohalete as a LB for your Defensive squad. He has all of the right moves, he can intercept the ball, he has a strong tackling ability, he can chase a player to the other side of the field, and he has the agility to avoid the blockers on the run. Ramsey is stellar at his prized position, although you will want to look for dead-on passes rather than throwing the ball up in the air, and his accuracy on the mismatches seems to be a little off. Thankfully, you will have guys like Champ Bailey taking care of the receiving area, as well as the excellent defensive efforts of taking the ball away from the offense. This obviously comes in handy, especially if the take away is right near their hot spot on the field. Jansen is the ideal guy to go with rather than Samuels due to his excellence on both sides of the ball, and Dalton gets the call instead of the legendary Bruce Smith due to his weight that he can carry on the OL. With Coles on the offense, you can expect to see him jump for the ball and come down with it on many different types of plays.
Playing Against: The biggest weakness to the Redskins is the fact that Patrick Ramsey is their starting Quarterback. While Ramsey is stellar, and can be a star if you know what you're doing with him, he will cough up the ball more than a few times throughout a game, if you're being sloppy with your play calling and your passing itself. With NFL Street being such a pass-heavy game, this could become a burden on any 'Skins fan. This is where you come in on defense. Just pick a team with a great DB (or a pair of them, for that matter), and take control. Jump up, in an attempt to gain some air on the receiver, and catch the pass. Turbo it all the way in to the End Zone for the defensive Touchdown. Of course, stopping Trung Canidate is nothing too hard, as the Runningback will fumble the ball on occasion. If you let your guard down over the middle on a run-stop, get prepared to pay for your mistakes. Once Canidate is on the move, there is little to no luck in catching up with the RB. The majority of Canidates yards will come from huge plays that go the extra mile in getting to the Red Zone, so watch the 'backs movements before the play begins to travel into his direction at the snap.


New York Giants
Suggested Roster
Kerry Collins (QB/DL)
Tiki Barber (RB/DB)
Amani Toomer (WR/DB)
Dhani Jones (OL/LB)
Shaun Williams (WR/DB)
Michael Strahan (OL/DL)
Kenny Holmes (OL/DL)
Playing As: As you could have guessed by looking at the Suggested Roster, this team is all about the main strength in its defense: the line. By ditching the lone Offensive Lineman for another Defensive Lineman who is a few steps behind Petitgout on the Blocking stats with Kenny Holmes, you can create a terrifying assault on teams with a poor OL. In fact, you can easily crash right through the line from both sides with the center can collapse due to a Blitz from Dhani Jones, who is solid on the line, while Collins simply hogs the Lineman. Speaking of Blitzing, try it on the D with Shaun Williams. His stellar blitzing abilities put him just a notch over fan favorite Will Allen for our lone DB spot on the roster. Just watch out for Play Action, as it can sting you. As for the offense, the best WR on the Giants is easily Amani Toomer. You can opt to remove Holmes or Jones for Shockey or Hilliard, but you can easily produce a decent offense with just Collins, Toomer, and Barber alone. Both Holmes and Strahan put up good numbers with their Pancakes, especially on the run, which will open up holes for Barber to adjust into the setting.
Playing Against: Unlike most of the teams in NFL Street, the Giants are just a tough team to create a strategy against due to the wide selection of above average to good players. There are plenty of possibilities, but one thing is for sure with the majority of players: they will likely use Collins, Barber, Shockey, and Toomer on their offensive game, while they sit Holmes for Petitgout. It's a safe bet that Allen will get the ball over Williams for name recognition alone. Regardless of the mix, individual player strategies are simple. Never run towards the end that Strahan is defending, as he will find a way to reach your QB and bring him to the ground with a possibility of a forced fumble. If they are playing Jones and Williams, get prepared for the Blitz when you have the ball. Try Play Action under the Trick Plays for some easy points on the board, if this is the case. You can easily get by two people that are not playing their positions correctly on the Blitz, and trail it all the way in for the score. If Shockey is in the game, bring a big LB over to cover him. He is fast, but if you can knock the wind out of him, you can likely strip the ball from the showboat's hands. If you're into risky chance taking, pick Collins off after a Blitz. This is especially easy when Shockey is his target, and a given take away if the pass is over the middle. It's all in the hands.


Philadelphia Eagles
Suggested Roster
Donovan McNabb (QB/LB)
Deuce Staley (RB/DL)
Brian Dawkins (WR/DB)
James Thrash (WR/DB)
Corey Simon (OL/DL)
Tra Thomas (OL/DL)
Troy Vincent (OL/DB)
Playing As: The Eagles only have one Linebacker in NFL Street, and his stats are lackluster, at best. Good thing for us that we have two excellent DBs to spread around. Since Dawkins is slightly better than Vincent, give Dawkins the Safety DB position, while Vincent and Thrash share the corners. Put McNabb as your big Linebacker in the center for those plays where you need a man to stop the run. McNabb may not be the best option for such a position, but he can hold his own with his fast speed. With such a stellar, fast-paced defense, you shouldn't need a LB to close in on the RB when your opponents use the run plays. Need we even mention the offensive power? Dawkins and Thrash will work perfectly as ideal receivers, while McNabb works as an excellent Quarter-Runningback. Speaking of RBs, using Staley for the position just works wonders. Try those Option plays under the Trick Plays category, and take the ball for a long run with McNabb. If things heat up, toss it off to Deuce and watch the carnival begin. If you're looking for a fun team in exhibition against your friends, have an Eagles vs Falcons match to test your wits with the trickiest of trick plays unleashed. This team was made for them� as was the Falcons.
Playing Against: One of the easiest things to remember when going against the Eagles is to have some super fast Defensive Back combo in the corners, and a super hard hitter as your Safety. If you can pick McNabb off, you're already in the clear of swooping the momentum from the game in your favor, and you can do that with some fast DBs like Shawn Springs or Dre' Bly. As for the hard hitter, you could possibly put a tough Linebacker out there for extra measure. Someone like Ray Lewis works best, as he can eliminate the ground game from afar, as well as take some passes from the air. Two LBs is a must when toying with the Eagles, as their running game is so pumped up that the D-Line will not be able to take it out alone. This game is packed full of trick plays to begin with, much less trick plays from a tricky team like Philly. Fast, heavy hitters are a must on your Defense. As for taking out the Defense, you will need speed receivers to get away from the casual Vincent or Dawkins that comes in for the steal out of the air. Take advantage of the lack of a real presence across the midfield by launching some rockets to your receivers on the short pass. The real way to dominate the Eagles is by using a power RB to mow the smaller guys down with stiff arm-like tactics, or butt heads with the out-of-position guys like McNabb or Staley. 


Dallas Cowboys
Suggested Roster
Larry Allen (OL/DL)
Quincy Carter (QB/DB)
Terry Glenn (WR/DB)
Roy Williams (WR/DB)
La'Roi Glover (OL/DL)
Troy Hambrick (RB/DL)
Dexter Coakley (OL/LB)
Playing As: The Cowboys are a stellar offensive team with several overlooked weapons that can run amuck. Troy Hambrick has some lovely stats for the staff departed Emmitt Smith, so you instantly have a decent running game, and you have some great blockers in Glover and Allen for both the running game and the pass. Tons of Pancakes for everyone! And lots of sacks, too, as both players play both sides of the ball extremely well. The Suggested Roster is solid, although you can swap Coakley for Galloway, if you are more of an offensive type of player rather than a balanced person. Coakley is a decent LB that can stop the light foot-steppers that are lurking in the backfield, giving your line more push for the sack. Glenn is the best of the three receivers in the game, and his dead-on catching abilities show. Quarterback preference is completely up to you, as both QBs nearly share the same vital statistics. It is vital to keep Williams as your Safety throughout everything, as he can jar a big catch loose and collect it for your team. Using this squad, the Cowboys can be deadly on defense, and your take aways will pile up over the course of the game. 
Playing Against: Magically, the Cowboys tend to do fairly bad on the Trick Plays, so expect a fairly clean football game with only a few attempts for options, or once in a great while, a fantastic miracle worker against you, such as a Halfback Pass or something of that nature. The Cowboys are a pure "spit and spout" football team that just comes to play, nothing fancy. With the questionable QB decisions in your favor, you can pick off both QBs fairly easily. The Cowboys enjoy the mismatch, and the best way to deal with the mismatch is an added DB to your arsenal. Someone to take the LB position, and add a little push over the middle to get the ball back to your offense. Their main threat, oddly enough, is still their running game. They will stick to it consistently throughout the football game in hopes that they can inch towards the first down. Just be prepared to see an unexpected run on 4th down every now and then. As for the defense, make sure that a solid ball carrier is the only one to get near Roy Williams. The likes of Marshall Faulk or Jerry Rice are appreciated against the boy, as he tends to rattle a receiver like a kitten on a bell. Human players may choose an alternate WR from the list, but thankfully, the characteristics of the receivers are similar. 

NFC North

Minnesota Vikings
Suggested Roster
Randy Moss (WR/DB)
Matt Birk (OL/DL)
Daunte Culpepper (QB/DL)
Michael Bennett (RB/DB)
Chris Hovan (OL/DL)
Chris Claiborne (OL/LB)
Denard Walker (WR/DB)
Playing As: The Vikings have a solid squad on the offense; do in part to Moss and Culpepper hooking up on the rockets for the first down. Never be too afraid to take the chance of throwing the ball up for grabs, as Moss will come down with it for the majority of the time, unless it is simply knocked away. Birk will hold up and do his job on both sides of the ball, as most OL/DL do in NFL Street. Hovan is decent on the DL, as he can break through to actually eliminate the running game from the sides. Keep Claiborne out in the middle for the pick. His jumping ability is decent, which amounts for a lot when you're looking to face a team that scatters the ball around. Just chase the projected receiver, and Turbo it ahead of the wide-out. Go for the leaping grab. If all else fails, you'll hit the receiver hard if he happens to turn up with it. If you are not a big defensive player, you can swap Walker for Bates to have a better WR at the position. Use Bennett a lot for option plays, as Culpepper can hold his own as a runningback, as well. Fact of the matter is, most people will be too concerned with your passing game and keeping Moss contained that they will completely forget about Bennett in the backfield.
Playing Against: Of course, your main priority is stopping the pass at all costs. Do not allow your opponent to pass to Moss too frequently, as they may get comfortable. Bring on the Blitz with one of your DBs, and Culpepper may hack up the INT to your Linebacker that is guarding the middle. Use tall defenders to scout Moss, as the guy is fairly decent in size, himself. You will easily want to Turbo it for an INT if the pass is deflected, as taking anything away from the Moss/Culpepper duo is luck in itself. Never get too close for comfort with allowing Moss to catch and run. That speed will eat away at even the fastest of DBs in the background. As stated in the "Playing As" section, your opponent may pick up that Moss is too much of a threat and guard him constantly. Do not make this mistake, as it will open up a mental hole for their ground game, and boy, is it decent. The main flaw in the Vikings' offense is the fact that they are fumble crazy, tossing off balls that are bumped by their own OL, or snatch from a lurking DB on the open side. Remember this, and jump on the opportunity. The defense is not too tough to break, and prone to the long pass, considering the lack of Corners on the team. Just bomb it out there, and watch the sparks fly as your big WRs out-jump the lone DB, or the man out of position.


Green Bay Packers
Suggested Roster
Brett Favre (QB/DL)
Ahman Green (RB/DB)
Cletidus Hunt (OL/DL)
Darren Sharper (WR/DB)
Javon Walker (WR/DB)
Joe Johnson (OL/DL)
Mike McKenzie (OL/LB)
Playing As: You can mix and match the Packers for your own personal favorite squad, but the best way to go about it is the Suggested Roster. There's a lot to do with this team on defense, as you can replace McKenzie with Diggs at the LB position. McKenzie is fast enough for the average Linebacker Blitz, and can definitely chase and tackle. He's also worthy of picking the ball off from the QB on a sloppy pass. This is why the Pack can be one of the most dominant defenses in the game, because they have quite a few worthy substitutions. There are several benched Linemen that you can use in place of Johnson and Hunt, but none that work both sides of the ball in such a stellar manner. Johnson will crush the line and reach the QB for a clean hit. Forced fumbles are not a big part of Johnson's game, but he can slug the QB hard enough to jitter the ball loose every now and then. He is the perfect Lineman for the third down situations, as he will find a way to the QB to rush the pass. Green is a great rusher, and an even better receiver. Plant the ball on him after he runs a route to lose the defender, as he is an unsuspected target against the CPU. You can replace Walker with Driver, although Walker's stats are slightly better in certain aspects. Should we even mention how accurate Brett Favre is? Just launch it straight to your second receiver on a short pass, or a delayed pass. You can even do this several times without getting caught, as Walker is a fast wide-out, and Driver is a smart receiver. Just be looking for those pesky LBs that hover the area for your ball.
Playing Against: The Packs biggest threat is also its biggest weakness: Favre launching an INT to your catching Linebacker. The Pack loves to pass, and if you play the Short Pass selections far plays, you can easily have a couple of INTs before the game is over. The main thing to remember when going up against the Packers is awareness. Keep your awareness honed and sharp for the midfield of down. This could work against you, if Favre bombs the ball on the long pass, but that is why you will need a fast Defensive Back that can jump for a ball, and come down with it against a tall receiver. Guys like Charles Woodson or Shawn Springs are perfect examples of this strategy. You can easily run down the Packers passing game by covering the center manually, while the CPU takes control of your DB for the killing on the hopes of the WR. A bigger threat than Favre alone is Green, who can and will run for a decent amount of yardage against your defense, even if you manage to maintain the guy. The biggest problem with going up against this team is the consistency of all of their offensive weapons. They pass the ball as much as they run it, and your human opponent likely will, as well. If you have a good D-Line that can stop the run before it starts, get ready to win the game. If Green tosses it off to Favre on the option, hit him hard enough to get that ball loose, and attempt to get the Defensive TD.


Detroit Lions
Suggested Roster
Dre' Bly (OL/DB)
Joey Harrington (QB/DL)
Luther Ellis (OL/DL)
Shaun Rogers (OL/DL)
Az-Zahir Hakim (WR/DB)
James Stewart (RB/DB)
Earl Holmes (OL/LB)
Playing As: The Lions have a unique squad, but with Harrington and The Wizard of Az, you can do no wrong. Pass the ball for the short-to-medium pass along the side, and chances are that he will catch the ball. Sadly, while his catching abilities are solid, he will not gain many yards after the catch unless a defender is to the side of him rather than purely ramming the guy straight ahead of him. Regardless, he is the heart of the offensive side of the ball, and it definitely shows by how he can simply outrun defenders if the field is even just slightly open in the back. Stewart is a decent RB in the game, as he rarely fumbles, even after trucking through the line several times with no breaks. He picks up enough yardages in each game to be a key weapon to your offense, but never enough to go the extra mile. Sometimes, that's all you need. Ellis and Rogers are damn near perfect for both of their individual roles, as Ellis is a monster on the DL, and Rogers is a no-nonsense type of player against big defenders breaking through the O-Line. Bly is known for coming up with big INTs in real life, but that seemingly has faded in Street. He will still swap balls away with a major amount of consistency, though, which is why he is so vital to the defense. Earl Holmes is neither here nor there, but it's always nice to have a really large LB out there to knock the snot out of the RB.
Playing Against: As stated above, Holmes is the main weakness in the defense, and the CPU loves him. Show them what their mistakes are by misleading the big man on the run with a misdirection option play on the reverse in the backfield. If you pass it off to the right man at the right time, you can fool the defensive AI so badly that you can nearly run it straight in for the TD. You can also use a very tall receiver over the shorter Bly for some nice air grabs and down. Make sure that you have a large man on the OL that can actually guard your QB against the big man, Luther Ellis, on the DL. As for the offensive stop, Stewart is easy to contain. Harrington may try to mix up some options for Stewart to go along with, but you can run him down in the backfield with a scary Blitzing Linebacker. Harrington can be easily sacked once you're in the backfield, so just watch out for him to jitter before he gets caught. Of course, getting by Ellis on the OL is definitely going to be a problem, so take a player like Strahan or Kearse to go up against him. Use an optional LB as your Safety, and jar Hakim whenever he comes down with the ball. There's a good chance that he will not have possession and drop it, or he will fumble it completely.


Chicago Bears
Suggested Roster
Brian Urlacher (OL/LB)
Keith Traylor (OL/DL)
Kordell Stewart (QB/DL)
Mike Brown (WR/DB)
David Terrell (WR/DB)
Anthony Thomas (RB/DB)
Olin Kreutz (OL/DL)
Playing As: You can do many things with the average Bears to make the team a very large, fun team to use. Keith Traylor is one of the best overall Linemen on both sides in the game, and it shows in his skill. Pancakes galore, and not for him to eat, either. The big man averages several sacks per game, as well as a few forced fumbles every now and then, depending on how well the QB carries the ball. Stewart is not God's Gift To Wide Receivers, but he is decent enough to be the one throwing the ball on the Bears offense. Too bad he doesn't have a purpose anywhere on the defense, hence why he is stuck against the Center. Obviously, the best overall player on the team is Urlacher, who can even play a decent Tight End-like player on your offensive squad. Terrell and Brown are the passing targets, and they are very solid at their job here. Expect big catches that will make you turn to the replay several times, especially for Brown being out of his usual position. Brown is an exceptional DB on the defense, flicking passes away like fleas on a puppy. Thomas is much like James Stewart in that he can take a lickin' but keep on tickin'. From experience, he doesn't tend to fumble a ball that makes you wonder, "Why did you let go of that one?" The running game definitely opens up the long pass for the TD.
Playing Against: The Bears can easily be stopped, whether the opponent is artificial or human. The running game, much like Detroit's, can be mowed down in the backfield by a couple of Blitzers. Their OL is solid with Traylor and Kreutz guarding Stewart, but if you can place one of your Ends in the middle to attack the Center, you can reach Stewart. Stewart is a good runner, but if you can catch him, expect a half-pass that can easily weigh towards a fumble rather than a forward pass motion. Brown is the main demon that you've gotta watch out for, as he will leap up to steal the ball away from a bombing QB, or dive towards the side to rob the receiver of a laser that should have been caught. Did we mention that his offensive threat is pretty decent, for a DB? Yeah, because it is, and you'll be pretty annoyed by some of his catches. Of course, a LB can easily dismantle a small Defensive Back, so bring out one of your hardest hitting 'Backers to attack Brown after he makes the catch, and watch the sparks fly as the ball comes loose. Terrell is better with his hands than Brown, which is why you may want to put a couple of DBs on him if they've attempted to throw to Brown, but failed. And one last thing: rarely ever send a fragile receiver to the middle for a short pass when Urlacher is around. It's not gonna be pretty.

NFC South

Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Suggested Roster
Brad Johnson (QB/DL)
Keyshawn Johnson (WR/DB)
Derrick Brooks (OL/LB)
Ronde Barber (WR/DB)
Mike Alsott (RB/DB)
Simeon Rice (DL/OL)
Anthony McFarland (DL/OL)
Playing As: The Bucs are a loaded team on the Defensive Line, but it is best to use Rice, the best person on the D-Line, and McFarland, who has a decent amount of push on both sides of the field. "What about Warren Sapp?" you ask? His Defensive Line statistics are good, but nowhere near Rice's, and McFarland is better on the O-Line. You can swap McFarland for Sapp, if you'd prefer, but for the best overall team, you should stick with the game plan. Keep in mind that if you're playing a team with a bad Offensive Line, try three D-Linemen instead of two for some real fun. Brad Johnson plays as a key QB that can deliver a pass with both arm strength and high accuracy, but as with himself in real life, he has a problem getting the ball off before the defender gets to him. Alas, you can afford a few sacks and possibly a couple of fumbles, as long as his passes are on-target and deliver the goods for the score. The best way to get up the field is small passes, no long bullets. This is the best way to stay consistent with the Bucs offense. While Alsott is that the ideal tail to have, he can easily bust through the line on 3rd and short, or get the Touchdown in the End Zone. Keyshawn has some excellent hands, so just give him the damn ball. Barber gets the call over Lynch due to his excellent speed down the field, and his ability to get above the receiver by climbing over the poor guy to reach the ball. That's talent. Lastly, never forget to play Brooks on the pass. This guy is accurate with the catch, and he's fast. Once he has the ball on a casual pick from the slanted side, run it in for the TD, and don't stop until you get there.
Playing Against: Of course, you cannot mention the Bucs without mentioning an awesome defense, and this is no exception. That line can be a major pain in the neck, especially if your opponent decides to bring out Sapp into the mix with two other D-Linemen. Even the best of Offensive Linemen cannot stop that kind of power, and it is best to try for an option to your halfback, if that is the case. This will catch the team off-guard, and allow you to gain some extra yards and possibly a TD. The main key to winning against the Bucs is momentum. If you can come into the game and mix up your passes and runs for a scoring drive, it will hit the team hard, even if a human player is your opponent. Knock their confidence around with a couple of trick plays in the game, but never too many. The Bucs D-Line is very no-nonsense, and will crush your QB or RB for the forced fumble, and they will likely recover it. If you're facing Brooks, throw the ball over him. If it's a shotgun bullet straight to him, he'll pick it off, and while his air abilities are above average for a LB, you'll have a better chance at eliminating his presence from the game if you choose to bomb it up into the air. Of course, it's best to completely avoid him. As for stopping the offense, bring in a couple of LBs on the Blitz if Alsott is running all over you, and always rush the line in the End Zone if he has been killing you out there. Bring three D-Linemen into the game to deal with Brad Johnson, as he will fold under the pressure for a loss of five yards.


New Orleans Saints
Suggested Roster
Aaron Brooks (QB/DL)
Grady Jackson (OL/DL)
Deuce McAllister (RB/LB)
Johnathan Sullivan (OL/DL)
Joe Horn (WR/DB)
Fred Thomas (OL/DB)
Donte Stallworth (WR/DB)
Playing As: Yes, we're actually using two actual Wide Receivers for this team. The lack of a solid LB makes the Saints a complete offensive domination type of team. With McAllister in the backfield, you have an excellent range of getting from one spot on the field to another by simply looking at it and focusing for a few downs, as well as a heavy RB that can tear through the DL for the extra yards that you need. With two excellent receiver options in Horn and Stallworth, you can use the multitalented Brooks to pass to either option, and one of them should definitely be open, even against the toughest of DBs. Horn has the jump to get over those defending him, and Stallworth has the added boost to get by the line and wave "Goodbye" to the DB. Of course, having an average DB in Thomas and McAllister as your Linebacker will not help your defense, but your options at those positions were neigh to begin with. The D-Line is solid with Jackson and Sullivan there to back your poor LB up on the Blitz, although Blitzing without a solid Safety or a solid Linebacker is not encouraged. Instead, try Zone plays on the defense, as you will have excellent receivers covering the individuals on the field, and Thomas is also an excellent picker. The Saints, while one of the best Offensive squads in the NFC in NFL Street, are also one of the worst Defensive packages in the NFC. You can't have your cake and eat it, too. The defense picks up the trick plays fairly well, unless they are man-to-man coverage heavy. As stated, just choose basic Zone plays for your backfield on the D.
Playing Against: You will want to take out McAllister from the game to begin with. He's a good third option receiver; so if you see him rolling right, get a man to cover him as soon as possible. You can breeze right through the middle of the Offensive Line, if you can manage to tango with Brooks' running abilities, but you will need three solid Linemen up for your Defense. Stopping the pass is nothing too hard to do, considering the CPU does not tend to use two star receivers, and thus you can just direct your attention to the lone key receiver and pick Brooks off. Getting an INT on Brooks is not easy, but it is very possible. Bring out a solid Safety that has been known to swap a few balls for INTs, such as Reggie Tongue or Brian Dawkins, and guard the star receiver heavily. You may even want to bring your best DB that is playing Safety up to the line for a fake Safety Blitz, drop back, and snatch the ball on a short pass to the RB or that WR that we keep mentioning. Running through a defense has never looked so easy.

Carolina Panthers
Suggested Roster
Mike Rucker (OL/DL)
Jake Delhomme (QB/DL)
Stephen Davis (RB/DB)
Steve Smith (WR/DB)
Dan Morgan (OL/LB)
Kris Jenkins (OL/DL)
Mike Minter (WR/DB)
Playing As: It is a complete toss-up between Jake Delhomme and Rodney Peete, but Delhomme gets the call due to his speed over Peete's slowness. They are both decent QBs to have against the DBs of an above average team, but the key focus for the Panthers is the stellar defense, and the great running game that trucks the offense in for the haul. The defense, while only having a few "big name" stars before the season, are even good for their early development, as Minter will eliminate several big name receivers (depending on the team that he is playing against), all the while getting prepared for the hard hit on the RB, if he comes into play on a Play Action. Morgan is one of the more underrated LBs in the game, with his unseen ability to jar the ball loose (see: fly across the field) on a big hit that comes unexpectedly. Davis is the workhorse of the group, and the Jenkins/Rucker combination does well with the run block. Smith is easily the best WR on the team, and should be played, no matter of preference. He comes out with huge diving catches several times throughout several games, and he is untouchable once he is off to the races. His ability to get his hands on the ball over two defenders is remarkable.
Playing Against: Obviously, the biggest flaw in the Carolina offense is the lack of a great Quarterback. Not to take anything away from Peete or Delhomme, but their characters do not have what it takes to zap the ball straight to the wide open receiver without a tiny bit of wobbling, which is the stuff that will cause the INT. While the human player can avoid such situations, the CPU cannot, and you should take advantage of this with a snatching LB, such as Ian Gold, while hugging the left or right sides. You will have to stop the running game, which is the primary source of points for most human players. Use excellent backfield reachers, much like Gold once again, to open up a collapse on the left side, which is the primary run gap, as well. If you can eliminate the primaries, you can eliminate the offense. For the defense, you will want to have a speedy receiver that can dart straight through the DBs that are lined up, and cross out towards the opposite side in a slant. A guy like Randy Moss should be perfect here, or Laveranues Coles works dandily, as well. Throwing for the short pass on a hook will result in some gained yards, as long as you keep your eye on the Linebacker Morgan.


Atlanta Falcons
Suggested Roster
Mike Vick (QB/DL)
Bob Whitfield (OL/DL)
Ed Jasper (OL/DL)
Warrick Dunn (RB/DB)
Peerless Price (WR/DB)
Ray Buchanan (WR/DB)
Keith Brooking (OL/LB)
Playing As: The Falcons are simply the fastest team in the entire game. No question about that, but how well do they play? The Falcons, along with the Eagles, are the best exhibition team that you can play, as you can mix up so many different types of trick plays and actually pull them off. Want to do a double option reverse? You've got it, because Vick and Dunn are an absolute monster pair when it comes to the ground game. It is nearly impossible to not score when you are inches from the goal line, because these two guys are just so fast. Need I mention that you should option the ball to Dunn for the pass to Price? The combinations are nearly endless with the three fire starters in Dunn, Price, and Vick. Jasper and Whitfield provide solid blocking for Dunn to run, and will pancake quite a few players before they let anyone get near Vick... Not like that matters, as Vick could easily run away from the defenders that are after him to gain the first down. With guys like these on the same team, you're bound to score. A lot. As for the defense, play Brooking in dead center, and wait for some schmuck to catch the ball for a complete short pass, and drill them. Bring Jasper along the outside of the next play to stop the run. Buchanan has been a great coverage man for years, so allow him to do his thing while you take control of Jasper or Brooking, based on your preference.
Playing Against: Oh boy, where to begin? First and foremost, look out for those trick plays. The Falcons are extremely sneaky, so you may want to bring in an extra DB to take the place of the usual LB near the center position of the field. The players on this team are very fast, especially when they are performing reverse options and the like, so you will definitely need to keep one player on each side of the field on lockdown until you can contain their trick plays. The extra DB will add speed, which the Falcons have plenty of. If you want to surprise your opponents, come out with two big Linebackers instead of an LB and a Safety DB. This will help rattle the ball loose on a possession by Price, but you will have to nail him quickly, before he has the chance to take off and never return. Defensively, the Falcons are nothing to write home about. Buchanan still holds his ground as the guy that will snatch the ball away if you bomb it out, and he loves picking off those tips. Make sure that your passes are directly to the receiver, and try slanted plays over the middle. You can gamble with Brooking a lot easier than you can gamble with Buchanan. Just watch Brooking on your running plays. Try to get a solid blocker to help your RB out a bit before you attempt to run Brooking down.

How to create your team: 
In here, I will list the different types of teams, and also the main objective of the positions.

Attributes
Each player is rated from 0-20 in 10 different categories. Some attributes are more important than others and some are more important for particular positions.
Passing - Accuracy and speed of passes. A low Passing rating results in very slow, high-arching passes that are easy to pick.
Speed - A player's speed. Faster is better.
Blocking - Run and pass blocking works for your O-Line but also for receivers blocking for running backs down the field.
Agility - Jukes, spins, and hops all come from this ability. If you want to go Randy Moss on people, you need some freak-like leaping abilities.
Catching - Not only the ability to catch a pass, but also to catch a lateral.
Run Power - The higher the power, the more likely you are to break tackles. 
Carrying - Not just for running backs, this is a player's ability to hold onto the ball, even after the most vicious hits.
Tackling - Crucial for all players (as everyone will need to tackle during a game), this measures how likely you are to wrap up a ballcarrier and keep them from breaking free.
Coverage - Defensive reaction to a thrown ball. Speed matters, as you need to be able to keep up with receivers, but a good Coverage skill include the ability to read the receiver and know when he'll break.
D-Moves - Ability to move around or through blockers.


Positions
Quarterback
Your main passer and key to your offense.
Vital Attributes: Passing, Carrying 
Wide Receiver
Your primary targets when you chuck the ball downfield. They will also block for your running back.
Vital Attributes: Catching, Speed, Agility
Running Back
This is your horse. He's easily 50% of your offense and doubles as a third receiver. No one is more vital.
Vital Attributes: Run Power, Carrying, Speed, Agility 
Offensive Lineman
Your primary blockers open holes for your running back and give your QB time to throw downfield. If they suck, your offense will be stuffed like Richard Gere at a gerbil store.
Vital Attributes: Blocking
Defensive Lineman
These guys are on the other side of the ball, trying to push past the O-Line to sack the 
QB or stuff the run.
Vital Attributes: D-Moves, Tackling, Speed
Defensive Back
Your corners and safety are not only important for swatting passes and knocking down receivers, but they are your last line of tacklers before a ballcarrier is out in the open field.
Vital Attributes: Coverage, Speed, Tackling
Linebacker
Often dropped onto the line to rush the passer, your Lineback must be able to cover short passes and tackle running back who break through the D-Line.
Vital Attributes: Tackling, Coverage, D-Moves

Balanced: Don't let the name fool you, a balanced team doesn't mean that you will be great on both offense and defense. In fact, you will be average on both. This is the best choice, however, so long as you spend your early development points wisely (the first order being an improvement to your running back). 
Rush Offense: Your running back is solid and has enough defensive skill to be your linebacker, but you have no good wide receivers, your quarterback is average. You do have a solid O Line. Running will get you through the early parts of the game, so this is a wise choice if you then spend your development points on strengthening your DB's offensive prowess and turn your O-Line into solid pass rushers.
Rush Defense: Here you end up with solid defensive linemen who can rush the passer and tackle with regularity as well as a strong linebacker. On offense, you are left with a decent QB, running back and wide receiver, but they have no talent on defense.
Pass Offense: You end up with a couple of great wide receivers and a good pocket QB but you have no running back. In fact, you have no one with any running skill. If you choose this (and we recommend against it) you need to put all your dev points into turning one of your defensive players into a halfback.
Pass Defense: Easily the worst of the bunch, this option leaves you with a good running back and a couple of fast DBs that can't catch. Only for those wishing to make things more difficult




Secrets: 
Unlock all Classic Players
Enter "Classic" as your user name.
Unlock all Fields
Enter "Travel" as your user name.
Unlock Team KaySlay
Enter "Kayslay" as your user name.
Unlock Team X-ecutioner
Enter "Excellent" as your user name.

Unlockables: Teams
AFC West All-Stars: Beat AFC West ladder in NFL Challenge.
AFC East All-Stars: Beat AFC East ladder in NFL Challenge.
AFC North All-Stars: Beat AFC North ladder in NFL Challenge.
AFC South All-Stars: Beat AFC South ladder in NFL Challenge.
NFC West All-Stars: Beat NFC West ladder in NFL Challenge.
NFC East All-Stars: Beat NFC East ladder in NFL Challenge.
NFC North All-Stars: Beat NFC North ladder in NFL Challenge.
NFC South All-Stars: Beat NFC South ladder in NFL Challenge.
Kayslay: Beat second Ladder team in NFL Challenge.
NFL Legends: Beat first Ladder team in NFL Challenge.


Credit: I give credit to www.ign.com because there nfl street guide helped me a lot with this guide. I also will be taking questions for this guide. If you have questions about this guide, please email me at [email protected] for your questions�