Every week (and more if demand is there) we will have analytics decide the spread of one GOTW game, so it would only make sense if we supported betting for it! Welcoming, SMLduel to the scene for your enjoyment.

SMLduel will be a points-based gambling game (no money) designed around the spread created by analytics. Upon registering, you will be rewarded with 100 points to wager as you wish. The goal, clearly, is to have the most points as a leaderboard will be kept-up throughout the life-cycle of the game.

The rules are as follows:
Each week, you will be allowed to make one bet of 10, 25, 50, or 100 points.
if you win your bet, you double the points given
if you lose, you will simply lose the points bet
if a bet would take you into the negatives, fear not! There is no “game over” but you will be heavily penalized for being in the red; All winnings on bets while in the negative will be penalized 50% (so you can only profit 50% on bets that put you in the negative)
This encourages continued smart play even when in the red, so that you do not just bet as much as possible to try and dig yourself out
If there is a push, all bets are returned even-points
GOTW participants ARE allowed to participate even when their team is involved

ICYMI: check out our return episode of Crunching the Numbers over on SML YT page!

This week’s line is Denver giving 4.5 pts over Carolina. To those of you that aren’t into the gambling jargon, that means that Denver has to win by more than 4.5 points in order to “win” for the bet, whereas Carolina can either lose by less than 4.5 points, or win outright.

If you are interested in participating now or in the future, feel free to DM me to sign up, but do so soon as the GOTW is set to be played today! Look forward to playing with you all

-QBstud

WHAT’S UP SML 2x champion QBstud here. What I’ve got for you today is a little group project some of us have put together for your deadtime enjoyment. Our task, was to have a group-mock draft along with rankings and analysis. Why a group you ask? I originally reached out, because any individual mock draft is generally going to have biases or agendas clouding their judgement. I figured, with a group, we could eliminate those things as much as possible, and give us the perspectives we need to at the very least have a very entertaining piece. Big shoutout to Meats, MB, Coop, and Royce on helping with this project.

Director’s note: a change to the SML membership has occurred since this list was made, but that’s ok, because the order will likely change regardless. This was still a fun exercise, I know we all enjoyed it, and we hope you do too.

1. Prime – Colts (avg rank: 17.4; MB rank: 20)

Though there have been rumors that this pick could go another way, I don’t think anyone actually believes those rumors. While it could be fun for Prime to try another team for a season or two, the opportunity to play as your favorite team is too tough to pass up when you have to play for an entire year.

2. Meats – Cardinals (avg rank: 5.6; Meats rank: 3)

This one’s pretty easy. Escape artist young QB, and perhaps the best uer LB in madden history in Isaiah Simmons. I've been looking for a good user LB since I joined the SML and itll be nice to start with one in Madden 21. This AZ team has a lot of young talent.

3. ZZ – Chiefs (avg rank: 1.2; QB rank: 1)

After going the majority of the M20 cycle without a bonafide franchise QB following the retirement of Drew Brees, ZZ will not let that happen again as he picks up the best QB you can have. The chiefs are absolutely riddled with speed on offense, and even have a few pieces on the defensive side of the ball. The question will be, can ZZ take this team to a dominant level, and will he be able to manage the cap and the roster over the course of a season? He’ll be in great position to make some noise in M21 and will certainly be a team to watch.

4. NYT – Ravens (avg rank: 1.8; Coop rank: 2)

The Ravens are arguably a top 2 team to start with for M21. If they are still here at pick #4, this would be a steal for NYT. NYT may not have any Simbardy trophies to this point, but I could see him snagging one if he gets this team. Lamar, Hollywood, and that stout defense should lead to a lot of wins. Rookie MLB Patrick Queen will surely be NYT’s top choice for his user with 89 speed. Keys for success will be replacing some of the older players on that defensive front 7. All 3 big boys on the DL are 30 or older. He does have a solid secondary he won’t have worry about for a few seasons.

5. Mike – Chargers (avg rank: 6.6; Royce rank: 11)

I know Mike will be missing Drew Lock but at least he gets to face him twice a year. The Chargers have a solid offense that does not have too many holes, especially with the addition of Justin Herbert. On the defensive side, he will have Joey Bosa, Derwin James, and Nassir Adderley to build around, and it won’t be necessary for a couple of seasons.

6. Woods - 49ers (avg rank: 4.6; MB rank: 4)

Woods absolutely loves running backs and starting with a stable of R.Mostert, T.Coleman, and J.McKinnon would probably make him excited. With this pick, Woods also starts with a defensive line that should remind him of his Browns team from M20. N.Bosa, A.Armstead, and D.Ford should be wreaking havoc on opposing quarterbacks for years to come. I’m sure he would like a little more speed at MLB, but Fred Warner should be more than serviceable until Woods can acquire an upgrade through the draft or free agency.

7. Royce – Panthers (avg rank: 23.6; Royce rank: 26)

This is an easy pick for me. The Panthers are my favorite team and when you have an offense of CMC, Robby Anderson, DJ Moore, and Curtis Samuel, it doesn’t matter who is throwing the ball. The defense is where they need some help bunt with their rookie class and some time, their defense will be a force to be reckoned with.

8. Dumpahontas – Washington Football Team (avg rank: 14; QB rank: 10)

If the SML did a fantasy draft, I’m fairly confident Dump’s team would look JUST like this. The WFT has all the pieces that made his Jags team great: A fantastic young #1 WR, a young QB to develop, young absolutely bonkers pass rushers, athletic LBs, and a secondary you can work with. The piece that most people forget about is Troy Apke, who is the fastest Safety (also with 85 COD) in the game. Dump often users the safety we he needs to develop them, and he has the prime candidate on this squad.

9. Gramazins – Cowboys (avg rank: 8.6;  Coop rank: 5)

Gramz will sometimes not take ‘DEM BOYZ in every league, but I can’t see him passing them up here at the 9th pick. His favorite team, the Cowboys, are a perfect team to start a franchise with again in M21. Zeke will still be a beast behind that great OL, rookie CeeDee Lamb only adds to the offensive weapons, but can Dak take him to a Super Bowl? It took 8 full season of M20 before Gram went all in on a QB and kicked Dak to the curb. This could be Gramz redemption Madden where he once again ends up in the playoffs consistently.

10. Future- Saints (avg rank: 16; Royce rank: 12)

Me and Future have this bond that can’t be broken and now we are finally back in a division together. Michael Thomas and Alvin Kamara make a strong case for best HB/WR combo in the NFL. Only worry on offense is replacing Drew Brees, but you can expect 2 seasons out of him. Their defensive side of the ball is getting older and that could be a big downside with the Saints. Future will need to focus on key defensive positions early in the first couple drafts.

11. Spooky – Seahawks (avg rank: 9.4; MB rank: 11)

It’s no secret that Spooky likes to air it out to a big fast wide receiver whose name starts with “M”. Well it only makes sense that he transitions from McLean to Metcalf. DK Metcalf should be dominant from the start. With his size and 95 speed, I fully expect Spooky to lead the league in receiving with him from day 1. Add Russell Wilson and Tyler Lockett to the mix and you have a dangerous passing game, which is right in Spooky’s wheelhouse. The Seahawks also have an exciting defense with the addition of Jamal Adams.

12. Noleoverlord – Buccaneers (avg rank: 7; Meats rank: 14)

Our 3rd repeat owner in the first 12 picks, the Bucs fan Nole will grab his much improved hometown team here. Much has been made about Tom Brady and Gronk joining the Bucs, but this team is much more than 2 old guys on offense. They have perhaps the best receiving corp, they have one of the fastest users in Devin White, and they have young defensive talent at almost every spot. A good value at the spot, we had teh Bucs ranked 7th, and Nole grabs them at 12. Will he be able to find another Angelo French-esque star?

13. Lawyerkiller – Falcons (avg rank: 22.6; QB rank: 24)

With Lawyer being from the Atlanta area the Falcons are his team, but that isn’t the only reason the Falcons are slotted here. The Falcons actually match-up with last year’s Packers really well on Offense, as they have an aging very talented QB, an absolute stud #1 with a younger core behind him (Falcons edge here). The Falcons also have Gurley now, and one of the fastest LB cores in Madden with a young secondary. All these reasons, plus the opportunity to join the other owners in the NFCS makes the Falcons a strong pick here for Lawyer

14. Tiny – Titans (avg rank: 19.2; Coop rank: 24)

Here it is again, summer is winding down, NFL football is on the way, and the crickets are chirping loudly…. That’s right, Tiny snags his favorite team once again. Henry will get the rock often with Tiny leading the way. While the Titans are a solid team all around, they don’t have many great playmakers outside of Henry & Byard on the roster. Will the fandom keep Tiny from moving on from Tanny at QB or will the mediocrity continue on through another Madden cycle? I’m listening for the crickets to give me the answers.

15. Raider – Raiders (avg rank: 11; Royce rank: 24)

Like this year, Raider will be heading back to the Raiders, but not to Oakland. He will get to play in a fancy new, fan-less, stadium in Las Vegas. I still don’t think Carr is the answer at QB but with young starts like Jacobs and Ruggs, Carr shouldn’t have too much to do. Their defense could use a little help, especially at CB, but for the most part, they have a solid core. With the addition of Cory Littleton and Nick Kwiatkowski, Raider will have 2 solid users on day 1.

16. Chris – Browns (avg rank: 4.8; MB rank: 3)

This pick was more about value than anything else.  If the Browns fall this far in the draft, Chris has to be running to get his pick turned in. Young talent all over the field and plenty of cap space make this one of the top teams to start with. Chris likes to spread the ball pretty evenly on offense and the Browns have the weapons on offense for him to be extremely successful with that gameplan.

17. Field – Packers (avg rank: 17.2; Meats rank: 15)

I think the Packers are a good value pick here. Middle of the pack, and they defintely have a good team in terms of ratings. WRs leave a little to be desired but thats usually an easy Fix. Start the cycle with Aaron Rodgers and then move to Jordan Love. Field has shown hes not scared of taking a veteran team in the past and he'll do it again this season, moving back to the NFC and selecting the Packers. Next question is, can field get back in the playoffs after missing the playoffs for a whole cycle for the first time in his SML tenure?

18. QBstud – Broncos (avg rank: 15.4; QB rank: 12)

The Denver Broncos check off just about every box besides being the cowboys and having a stud OU alum. Two young superstar WRs, a young QB with a decent arm, two super talented HBs, a burner at TE; the offense is already set for the cycle. The defense has some work to do, but they do have pieces to make up for it in the present. Best safety tandem in the game, along with two monster pass rushers makes the D not as big a work-in-progress as you may think. Broncos are one of the few teams built to win now AND in the future. The Broncos are probably the least talented team in the AFCW, so a lot of it depends on if there is a true leader in the division.

19. Colt45 – Bengals (avg rank: 16.6; Coop rank: 16)

Colt struggled with injuries throughout M20, but he showed he can lead a team into the postseason when they stay on the field. The Bengals have a strong pass rush & rookie QB Joe Burrow to help turn this franchise around. Joe Mixon is a great back the offense has one of the fastest guys at WR in John Ross III. The big fault of the Bengals is the OL. He’ll need to address that to keep the offense rolling.  The LB group for this team is also a weakness and will need to be addressed early. If Colt gets a team that stays healthy for most of M21, you better watch out.

20. Rowin – Bills (avg rank: 13.4; Royce rank: 10)

Some people are not as high on the Bills as I am but Rowin is getting great value with this pick, in my eyes. He has an overall young team. Under center is Josh Allen and with that 99 throw power, just send Diggs on a streak and it’s a wrap. Tremaine Edmunds is the big name on defense as that will be his user unless he goes with Micah Hyde. In other words, he will have a great user to cover while Ed Oliver disrupts opposing QBs.

21. PJ - Eagles  (avg rank: 19.2; MB rank: 22)

PJ has managed to keep a dismal Lions squad hovering around the .500 mark in M20. He should be able to improve on that record with this Eagles squad. His Lions quarterback was never sacked less than 33 times in a season and I think the upgrade of the Eagles offensive line, combined with Carson Wentz should allow PJ to improve his offense significantly. The offseason acquisition of Darius Slay makes this defense much more appealing as well.

22. Twostep – Steelers (avg rank: 23.2; Meats rank: 30)

Twostep is a cowboys fan, and they'll be long gone by 22, but the Steelers are a similar team to the Cowboys. Good WRs, a good QB (to start), and solid defensive talent. The only holdbacks with this pick is that Twostep had a veteran team last cycle in the Rams and struggled mightily all cycle. He's never been scared, and he'll take the Steelers, tank for a QB, and make the playoffs 4 times next cycle.

23. Bluntburner – Vikings (avg rank: 26; QB rank: 29)

Blunt is a run-first owner, and he gets the only RB with Juke Box to start in Dalvin Cook. He also has plenty of tools on D, a #1 WR for now AND a young stud to develop for the future. Sometimes you have a perfect fit for owner/roster, and this is one of those. Expect Blunt to take a division or two at least based on how the NFCN is shaping out.

24. KJ – Giants (avg rank: 25.4; Coop rank: 25)

KJ’s stlye is to play tough defense and be balanced and methodical on offense. I gave KJ this pick 100% for Saquon Barkley. I know KJ likes to run the ball. The best teams left on the board were the Dolphins (not again please!) and the Texans. I couldn’t see KJ picking a rival as a Titans fan. Barkley will be ton of fun for KJ if he lands here. The defense, however, will need a total rebuild. There are a few key players to build upon, but more help will be needed to get this team going in the right direction.

25. Pauly - Patriots  (avg rank: 23; Royce rank: 25)

A hometown kid gets to play with his hometown team but he won’t have his hometown hero. Pauly loves his Patriots but they do need a lot of work. He has Newton but who knows if that is who he will start. Defensively, an old defense which will need a lot of help but I know Pauly wants to bro g his Patriots a Simbardi.

26. Figgs – Dolphins (avg rank: 18.2; MB rank: 15)

At this point in the draft, the choices are pretty limited. I think Figgs will be pretty excited to see the Dolphins on the board when it comes time for him to pick. This Dolphins team is actually sneaky good. Their overall ratings might not reflect it, but having Byron Jones and Xavien Howard as your starting corners to go with Raekwon McMillan and Jerome Baker as your middle linebackers, is already the start of a dominant defense. Now offensively they may take a little time to get on track, but the core of D.Parker, J.Howard/M.Brieda, and Tua is definitely something that you can build around.

27. Sunday – Texans (avg rank: 16.4; Meats rank: 23)

Sunday. Texans. Prime. Colts. Thats all you need to know here. The fact that such a young team with Deshaun Watson is still here at 27 is a testament to people not wanting to play Prime twice a season. Sunday isnt scared.

28. DanHe22 – Jaguars (avg rank: 21.4; QB rank: 13)

This may well be the steal of the draft. Dan is a teambuilder above all else, and the canvas to build on doesn’t get any better than the Jaguars here at pick 28. They have literally every young piece but a QB, since Minshew has a noodle for an arm. If this breaks his way I would expect him to have his team on-line and competing by end of season 2

29. Coop – Rams (avg rank: 28.2; Coop rank: 30)

Well, I guess I should just buy my Rams hat already. Here we are at pick 29 and the best teams available are the Rams or the Bears. (Again!) This pick was a toss up with so few options remaining. While the Rams do have some star power with AD & Ramsey on defense, they are aging at most positions on the roster. WRs and defense will be important to improve upon early. If not managed correctly, this team could be a sinking ship headed right for the nursing home in a few seasons. My skills will aslo need to improve. If not, I could fail again with a subpar team like the Rams. Only hoping for my SML best, 7-9, again year after year.

30. Cory (booted) – Bears (avg rank: 28; Royce rank: 28)

Between the Bears, Lions, and Jets, I figured Cory would want the better defense. While the bears do have Mitch Trubisky, and an overall, eh offense, they do have Cole Kmet who will be an animal all cycle. I’d expect him to get an XFactor by the end of the 2nd season. The defense however, is where the Bears shine. You will have a strong defense with some players that need replacing, but plenty of time to do it. Defense wins championships, and this Bears team is the definition of that.

31. MadBomber – Lions (avg rank: 31; MB rank: 31)

The biggest reason for this pick…….they aren’t the Jets. With the next to last pick, there isn’t really much reasoning for this pick other than they aren’t the Jets.  However, there are also some things to look forward to here if you are MadBomber. Kenny Golladay and Marvin Jones make up a dangerous receiving corps, especially when you add TJ Hockenson to the mix. D.Swift and K.Johnson will provide a solid 1-2 combination in the running game, similar to what we saw with R.Whitlock and B.Love in M20. M.Stafford also provides a more than capable starter at quarterback until a replacement can be found. But the crown jewel that is sure to excite Bomber the most…….J.Okudah. While he can’t get his favorite team (Browns), getting one of the top Buckeye rookies coming in will surely get him excited about the Lions.

32. Latinyank – Jets (avg rank: 32; QB rank: 32)

Although most may lament at being the last “pick” in team selection, this is the perfect year for that to happen to Latin, as he’d likely pick his favorite team even higher in the draft. The Jets are a long-term build, as they have one of the younger QBs in the league, and have compiled some draft capital with the Jamal Adams trade. With a burner #1 WR to take the top of defenses, expect Denzel Mims to grow into a young stud WR sooner rather than later. They may not have Adams anymore, but they still have a top flight front 7, so don’t’ expect any tears to be shed with this pick.

Office Hours with Prof. QB

Every week I will be holding office hours with the SML, giving my thoughts on the happenings around the league, and giving others opportunity to come in and share their own thoughts. If you ever want to be heard, feel free to step into my office.

This week we have the return of the one, the only, Coop!

• Although you're a familiar face to some, you're still relatively fresh this go round with the SML. why don't you tell us about yourself?
  • My last name is Cooper & what I’ve been called since I was a pre-teen. I grew up in the Ozarks in southern Missouri. I then moved to Springfield, MO where I went to college, met my wife, & lived for 15+ years. We moved to Colorado a few years ago to be by the Rockies & have some better weather for our liking.
  • As far as gaming goes, I started very early on with an Atari, then a Nintendo & so on. I’ve played Madden since it was created. Online sim leagues I’ve played in since about M12 or M13. I’ve help run a league since M25. That is how I know some of the other SML members since before I joined.
• You were in the SML previously weren't you? What lead to the falling out previously?
  • Yes. I was lucky enough to get the 32nd pick this cycle w/ the Dolphins. I built them to my liking by season 3, but the gameplay was getting old for me. I wasn’t having fun winning or losing. I quit at 4-2 & deleted madden from my console.
  • Obviously, I didn’t stay gone for good & now I’m back. I have a Bears squad that is worse than my Dolphins were.... which I didn’t think was possible!
• So it sounds like you had success with that dolphins team, but struggling with the shell of a team you have now. Compared to the rest of the SML, where would you rate yourself on a scale of 1-10, and why would you consider yourself at that point?
  • There is some really good competition here. I’d give myself a 5.
  • My user skill is average & I try to win with scheme & defense. I don’t prep or look at my opponents rosters before I play. I just jump in and try to craft each game’s scheme around what I’m seeing on the field.
• How do you feel the SML now compares to when you were here before? Both in skill and content.
  • Skill level is about the same I’d say. You’ve got some continual SML playoff owners gone like Oshii & Gov. But you also have some new cats that are making their SML mark; Yourself, Sunday, & even Dan today just picked up his 1st SML playoff win.
  • Content is hands down a step up since the early M20 seasons. You & Pauly are always bringing new podcast. Meats, Peepaw (ZZ), Field & Prime always dropping new pods.
  • Commentating games was sort of new in season 2-3. Now you all are jumping on and adding that other level to the to the SML.
• If you were able to make one decision as commissioner, what would it be and why?
  • I’ve been a commish for a number of years & like what I see here. The one thing I would change is switch the league over to a “coaches only” league.
  • Owner mode, and even coach mode for that matter, leave a lot to be desired in the current versions of Madden.
  • The available funds aspect in FA & resigns isn’t really realistic in owner mode. I could care less how many hotdogs I sell or how much my players jerseys cost in the gift shop.
  • The real life NFL makes so much money that is shared with each team. No team would run out of funds to sign players when there is still cap space open & available to them.
• All right, we'll end with giving you an open mic, whatever you want to say to the SML feel free.
  • To all the SML, top to bottom, keep doing your thing. The admins & content creators are going above & beyond every week. I appreciate getting the opportunity to join back up & show my mediocrity on the SML field.
  • Good luck to you in the playoffs & cheers to all my beer drinkers & chocolate milk drinkers out there.

QB’s corner:

In QB’s corner I’ll focus more on what’s going on around the SML. I know we have a ton of guys that do great work in predicting games, so I will be focusing more on the other aspects of the league.

My topic of the week this time will be the OGs falling out with the league. This is something that really affects of all of us, even those of us who haven’t been around as long and don’t’ have as strong a relationship with the departed as others. A league that has longstanding comradery is a strong one.

That being said, in order to have a group or organization of any kind you have to know what your principles are, and you have to stick to them even when that means making tough decisions. Gov, Oshii, and Hass were all well-beloved members of the league, and they were excellent users to boot. However, the call to move on from them was the correct one.

What did these three have in common that lead to their departure from the SML?
***Note: I have zero inside information and less than zero power/say in the matter***
All three of these guys were excellent users and great to have in chat, but they also had checkered pasts gameplay-wise. What I believe the final stake in the ground for each of them was the inability to adapt or adjust their play to conform to SML rules. Each of them ran a very particular style of game, and I would assume were given multiple requests and then warnings to vary it up a bit.

The most glaring proof to this point was the recent departure of Hass, as he said days before being booted that “I’m going to play the way I want regardless.” That level of dissent cannot be tolerated, especially in an organization with a strong central government like the SML. Although each of them will be missed, by bearing down on this behavior, especially when it is repeated without remorse, we help maintain a strong foundation for years to come. Losing a brother in the SML should never be celebrated, but it is time for the new wave of talent in the SML to step-up, and fill the void that has been left.

Office Hours with Prof. QB

Every week I will be holding office hours with the SML, giving my thoughts on the happenings around the league, and giving others opportunity to come into the office and share their own thoughts. If you ever want to be heard, feel free to step into my office.

To kick off our first edition, we have one of the newest members of the SML: Dan He22

• Although you're a familiar face to some, you're new to the SML. why don't you tell us about yourself?
  • I live in Western PA, steeler fan, been playing madden since 96, been in online lgs since 2010, commish a lg as well since 2006... Enjoying learning the game and finding out how to take away what most people want to do. Love the competition and challenge of getting better every game, every season, every cycle...
• So I see your background in Madden, do you have any football background?
  • played QB in HS, played basketball in college
• I feel like there’s a strong correlation between guys that played QB in HS and madden success, so that tells me that there’s still plenty of football knowledge applicable to the game as well. What are your initial impressions of the SML?
  • knowing the MF guys from the past I knew it would be solid... The level of content and investment beyond the game have been impressive. Love the fire, the activeness and challenge of a whole new set of owners and styles I haven't played before.
• We take pride in our commitment to not only great content, but great gameplay as well, do you watch league games outside of your own? If so how often would you say you do?
  • I only watch games in lg play so I can get a feel for what they want to do. I don't care much of watching games of people I will never play
• How about consumption of other content from the league? (i.e. podcasts, articles, etc.)
  • I watch/listen to everything... any thing produced someone took the time to make it and I feel as part of the lg I should take the time to watch it. Also gives me more insights into owners which can help come game day
• That last bit is always a hesitation of mine, and probably the reason I’ll never do a series like Prime did with The Breakdown. So we have just started the playoffs, talk to me about who you think will be your biggest obstacle to a Superbowl appearance.
  • number 1 is always madden.... any game madden can be the deciding factor... outside of that I have played Skins, Packers and Vikings... I know NYT from MF only one I haven't seen yet in person is Hawks. The competitor in me wants Sunday. Our last week 17 game felt more like a preseason exhibition so I would love a shot at him... If it would happen to be in NFCC I get Fournette back which is a big factor...
• You're definitely going to be rooting for Lawyer to win so your shot against Sunday comes in the NFCCG. What're your thoughts on what you've seen from the AFC?
  • Haven't seen a lot of AFC games as I don't have to play them yet. It appears the more locked in Prime is the tougher he is too beat. But I haven't seen Pats, Bills, Ravens games yet.. Although getting the vibe from personalities by guess is it will come down to Pats v Colts. Toughest opponents are the ones that can adjust and come at you with different options... I think some of these are teams are more one trick ponies and when you take that away they struggle to adjust
• We'll end by leaving the floor open for you to say anything you want to everyone at home reading
  • Winning Super Bowls is the only thing that matters, it is the only award, stat or record that counts in the end. Win it or stay quiet until you do. Thats what I am here for, maybe this year, maybe next season, maybe next madden but I will be hungry til I do. Until then best of luck for all in the dance, don't leave anything left on the floor. If the gods of madden so smile on you, we will tip our hat in respect for being the best of the best in season 31 of SML

Awesome man, really appreciate you taking the time. Dan He22, newcomer to the SML, but is a force to be reckoned with? Time will tell if he can displace Sunday as the head of the NFC.

QB’s corner:

In QB’s corner I’ll focus more on what’s going on around the SML. I know we have a ton of guys that do great work in predicting games, so I will be focusing more on the other aspects of the league.

My topic of the week now is going to be over whether or not the running game is overpowered in Madden this cycle or not. Really when I say in madden, I mean in a sim CFM. Whether or not repeatedly running the same plays over and over in a mode where you can run TEs at WR and abuse abilities or game mechanics is irrelevant to us. In my experience, and I believe this is backed up this cycle in the SML, madden success correlates very closely with that in the NFL.

I’ll explain what I mean. A ground game is vital to the overall health to any offense; however, no team is going to go very far without strong quarterback play. Every team in the playoffs outside those hailing from the NFCN has a Superstar QB. This doesn’t mean they have to rely solely on that QB for their success, but you aren’t getting to the postseason without strong QB play.

An additional point we can bring to back that up, is that the Oakland Raiders have the SML’s leading rusher, but they finished the season with a 3-13 record. Yes he had a large volume of carries, but he still amassed over 8 ypc, which is excellent by anyone’s standards. If you’re able to build your offense around running the ball, do that really well, and still have nothing to show for it, it isn’t overpowered.

The only reason that the run game is perceived of being so strong is the concept of ball control. Being able to dominate time of possession and limit turnovers are going to lead you to success the vast majority of the time. Having a solid RB or running game will absolutely assist you in that, but without competent QB play you’re going to fail.

Generating turnovers then are equally important. We can see that the Ravens were the only team not in the top half of the league in forcing turnovers, and they get away with it because of an extremely strong ground game and a really week schedule this season.

All-in-all, so long as we’re discussing a sim setting, success in madden will correlate well with the same keys to victory as in the NFL. We may all have some gripes about the game and how it decides to handle some things, but regardless, Madden 20 has been the best edition of Madden this decade.

SML Most Valuable Owner Rankings

These ratings were created by owner QBstud in order to reflect on the value of the SML, as well as to cause discussion. You will likely not like where you show up on this list, and that is because the SML is full of great users, with terrific content and gameplay. Being a stud user alone is not enough to crack the top ten, but it is an important aspect. The criteria used are as follows:

• Content creation
• Chat activity
• Likability
• Intangibles
• Sim play
• Ability to play the game

This list is not a popularity contest, although that is one aspect that the list covers. Just being on this list tells us that you are worthy of your spot, as there is an entire league+ waiting to replace you at a moment’s notice. Never forget that, and always be striving to make the league better.

1. Prime-Time000 - Colts
   1. Let’s be real, Prime talks about himself enough so I don’t need to. That being said, mad respect and appreciation to Prime for all he does
   2. #bangbangbang
2. Meats - Ravens
   1. High-end user, creates excellent graphics, top tier activity in chat, and is a cohost on the only live show in the SML. Not to mention he is an admin, and we all know, and should appreciate, all the work our admins do.
   2. May or may not show extreme favoritism to himself in creating graphics. Some call him “cheese” but I would certainly not put him in that category.
3. QBstud - Patriots
   1. Top tier user, in chat probably too much, utility player in the podcast game AND created and cohosts the only live SML show.
   2. Likability could probably tank this guy down some, but I believe the sim gameplay, skilled gameplay, and content creation make up for it
4. ChrisnKells - Broncos
   1. Excellent graphics creator, always willing to help others with what they need. Constant force in chat with a great attitude, and a solid sim player to boot.
   2. Needs to show up more in big games
5. Pauly - Vikings
   1. He’s a love him or hate him kind of guy, but he fully embraces that. Does a great job with content creation, always eager to help, and always invested/engaged in chat.
   2. Needs to show up in big games, newer to the league so still needs to establish himself as a user
6. Royce - Jets
   1. Great chat presence, runs the only article series (desperately need more of) in the SML, excellent sim gameplay.
   2. Only does the one thing an in-game week for content creation, has bad streaks gameplay wise on occasion
7. MikeFML – Panthers
   1. He’s what you need in every league. Gives a dose of reality to many in chat, always knows how to jar with others without going to far, AND runs the dev league exactly how he should.
   2. Consistency. He used to be consistently mediocre, winning some he should and losing some he shouldn’t, but now he can’t even do that. Get it together Mike
8. RaiderFan - Raiders
   1. Dude it’s Raider. Every group of men larger than 3 or 4 has the quirky one, and when he’s tolerable it makes the group a better place. Puts out videos better than anyone but Prime, and is well beloved among the SML
   2. Sometimes goes a touch too far with the conspiracy theories (aka crying) and definitely has work to do in the gameplay department
9. NYT - Falcons
   1. NYT is another key component to any male group. He’s the wise-ass always cracking jokes, and he does a good job of it. PLUS he’s the meme guy, which is always needed in any chat. Has caught fire gameplay wise as of late, which helps round him out.
   2. Needs consistency in gameplay, and we all want to hear him on the mic. C’mon NYT creating a podcast isn’t hard.
10. ZZtheGreat - Saints
    1. Admin, hype guy, and cohost of the premier SML podcast. He is much lower than the other two admin because he had an extended period of minimal chat interaction and the league was still firing on all cylinders. That being said I respect the work that the admin do, and he probably does plenty behind the scenes.
    2. Gameplay and consistent chat presence really tank him here, but he’s easily deserving of a top 10 spot.
11. Gramazins – Cowboys
    1. Another great user with good chat involvement, but doesn’t do much in the OC department. He is a willing sub in Crunching the Numbers, and most importantly knows how to cook a steak.
    2. Inconsistent play as of late, and really should be involved in the article writing game.
12. Dumpahontas - Jaguars
    1. Dump is a great user, really good chat involvement both in volume and quality, but really doesn’t create much.
    2. Needs to bring more outside the game to the league
13. FieldGeneral007
    1. Cofounder of the league, runs a very successful podcast
    2. Inconsistent both in play and in participation of all kinds. Simultaneously deserves to be higher and lower than this ranking, which makes me feel good about it
14. TheSundaySquad - Redskins
    1. Has only lost like 3 times in 3 or 4 seasons
    2. Low chat activity, minimal content creation. Committed to a perfect passer rating series but didn’t complete it.
15. LawyerKiller – Packers
    1. Humble presence in chat, good user (former bowl winner). He has started talking over voice in chat during his games, which helps people gravitate to his streams.
    2. Lower chat activity, pretty sure he made up his excuse. I think he called it “work” or something? Not sure.
16. FutureEmpire – Seahawks
    1. Another humble presence/good user guy, likes to run scrims so he and others get better.
    2. Needs to show up in big games, and would love to see some content out of him.
17. Woods – Browns
    1. Good user, good presence in chat, and strong gif game
    2. Maybe deserves to be a little higher, but would like to see more out of him in the wins department.
18. KJslander – Dolphins
    1. Better user than his record suggests, great personality to have no matter the context
    2. Needs to step it up as a teambuilder to get more wins, should probably tagteam with Tiny for some content creation
19. TinyTitan – Titans
    1. Up and down user, has won an extremely tough divison, but has also gone winless. Great personality to have in chat, brings it all.
    2. Need more consistency, and definitely tagteam with KJ for some content creation
20. SpookyWorld – 49ers
    1. Up and down user, fun guy to have in chat
    2. Inconsistent in chat and in gameplay. Would definitely be a good one to have on some type of podcast or video series
21. Hasscore – Chiefs
    1. Dangerous offense and lurker on D. Great personality in chat when he can stay healthy
    2. Needs work in the sim department, can’t help that he’s been out for extended periods of time
22. DanHe – Eagles
    1. Paint is still fresh on the latest SML addition, but he’s a great user, great guy, will jump up this list with time.
    2. Worried about how long his plans to stay in the SML are, still sort of an unknown gameplay wise, and interested to see if he decides to pursue any content
23. FiggNewton – Giants
    1. Another newcomer, still adapting to the skill level in the SML. Good interaction in chat, and getting better as a player
    2. Still weak on the sticks, still a lot to be seen.
24. Coop - Bears
    1. New to me, but has history with the SML. Has been great to have in chat, will have to see more of what he has to offer.
    2. Gameplay seems real weak, but he was handed a team with plenty of holes
25. Nole – Buccaneers
    1. Strong player, wins his division seemingly every other year
    2. Ok chat involvement, needs more consistency in the wins department
26. TerribleTwoStep - Rams
    1. Seems to be an up and down player, and up and down on chat interaction. Good to have in chat when he’s there
    2. I’ve heard good things about his play, but haven’t seen a lot of great play from him yet. Keeping an eye out for him
27. PJ – Lions
    1. When motivated can take games off top tier players.
    2. Seems very unmotivated gameplay and chat wise
28. RowinCuh – Bengals
    1. Another good player when motivated
    2. And another that seems unmotivated gameplay and chat wise
29. Colt45nwhatever - Cardinals
    1. Vertical passing game and good lurker
    2. Inconsistent play and is a lurker in chat too
30. BluntBurner - Chargers
    1. SML OG
    2. Really hurtin in every aspect right now

———The Line———

31. KonklusionsTTV – Bills
    1. Talented player, has bursts of content creation. Very active in chat
    2. Lol
32. LeeSeals – Steelers