TGT Coach Mode OD (360)

[Coach Kernzy]

The new home and official thread for the new TGT Coach Mode OD (360).
Previous thread and lots of good info here (http://www.thegamingtailgate.com/forums/showthread.php?2486-quot-Coach-Mode-quot-Xbox-360-OD-anyone)

Coach Mode
All-American
Start as 1* team and work your way up

Current teams & owners:
North Texas - AustinWolv
Army - morsdraconis
Idaho - NavyKnight
Western Michigan - Coach Kernzy
FAU - natcret
? - Cody
Memphis - Underdog
Washington St - JBHuskers
FIU - SmoothPancakes
New Mexico - HawkFan
Arkansas St - Cipher8
Tulane - jmiles562000

General Rules/Guidelines all players must follow:


Must start at a :1star: school either as a Head Coach or I guess you could do a Offensive or Defensive Coordinator if you really wanted to.

When accepting a new job offer there is a limit on how far you can jump up. You can only accept a new job position at no more than :2star: higher than your current position. If you're jumping from coordinator to head coach it can only be a :1star: jump. So +:2star: if you stay at current position but when jumping from coordinator to head coach only +:1star: limit. See Spoiler for detailed explanation and example:

Coach K's starts out at :1star: :Western_Michigan: as Head Coach.
After the first season he gets a job offer to move to Heach Coach at :2star: :Minnesota: or Offensive Coordinator at :3star: :Pitt: or stay where he is at and finish out his contract. He accepts Pitt's offer.
After the second season, being Pitts's Offensive Coordinator, he gets a different job offer to be Head Coach at :5star: :Iowa:. He is not allowed to accept this offer, even though the game offered it to him because he would be moving up from a 3 star to a 5 star program. So he must stay at Pitt or accept a job elsewhere within the guidelines.
So say he stays at Pitt for another year and wins back to back Big East titles. Now Pitt's school prestige rating is :4star: and Coach K gets offered the Offensive Coordinator position at :6star: :Penn_State:. Even though it's within the +:2star: range as long as he stays at the same position (OC) he cannot accept because when he entered at Pitt it was a :3star: school. It goes by the school's rating when you got there not when you leave. So he must decline but then say :5star: :Boise_State: offers him their offensive coordinator position because theirs was hired by Penn State and it opened up. Coach K could accept that position because 3+2=5 so it's within range.
So say he stays at Boise for 3 years and wins a National Title in his third year. He's now a A+ prestige offensive coordinator at a :5star: school. He's going to get a ton of job offers, and he'll decline most of them, but he happens to get lucky and it just so happens that :6star: :Oregon: fired their Heach Coach and offered Coach K a job their at that position. He accepts and is allowed to do so, making the jump from coordinator to head coach because it's only a +:1star: difference. Of course Coach K could've taken any job at any position at a school under :5star: which he was at too if he wanted to move to Head Coach from Coordinator. There are no restrictions on moving down a star rating and there are no restrictions on staying at one school for too long. As long as you meet your goals and get offers extended to you, you can stay with a team and build them up.

[Coach Kernzy]

Hey guys, how about doing a short preview of your squad like I did with my offense here...just to get you and everyone thinking what you and they might do as we get going. 1 WEEK GUYS!!!

Coach Kernzy's Western Michigan Broncos season preview....

Offensive overview:
The Broncos will run a hybrid pro/spread offense led by 86ovr JR QB #14 Alex Carder who is a very good passer but will probably only run when necessary. That necessity may be more than he'd like as the Broncos have to replace all 3 of their interior linemen from a year ago. However the two tackles are very solid with 85ovr SR LT #72 Anthony Parker and 75ovr JR RT Dan O'Neill and they will be called upon to help out the new starters on the interior.
When Carder is not pulling the trigger on passes the Broncos plan to employ a multiple back running attack behind a three headed monster led by 79ovr SO HB #29 Tevin Drake who burst on the scene last year as a true freshman and let the team in rushing and also averaged an amazing 10.1ypc. Also in the mix for carries will be fellow SO HB Brian Fields and SR HB Aaron Winchester. Drake is the power, Fields is the speed and Winchester is the balanced veteran.
Carder will be throwing most of his passes to the WR duo of 78ovr SR WR #12 Robert Arnheim and 77ovr JR WR #8 Ansel Ponder. Along with those guys will be 71ovr JR TE #85 Blake Hammond who is a very good receiving TE.
Expect the Broncos to be very balanced and let Carder and his offensive squad put up some quality #s if the interior offensive line comes together.

Defensive overview:
coming soon.......

[Underdog]

Memphis Offense Preview.










We are f*^(ed.


That is all.

[Coach Kernzy]

We are f*^(ed.

Very insightful Underdog LOL

It is pretty much true though. I plan on using Memphis as my offline coach mode dynasty because I thought it was probably the toughest situation to start out based on what they have and who they have to play and their recent history.

[morsdraconis]

Army Black Knights 2011 Season Preview



Offense


The Army Black Knights potent flexbone offense brings back it's core group that made it the 8th best rushing attack in the nation (amassing 3,271 total rushing yards on 728 attempts for 34 TDs) last season with FB #7 Jared Hassin from Delafield, WI and QB #8 Trent Steelman from Bowling Green, KY both returning.

Hassin lead the team in yards and attempts with 1013 yards on 191 attempts and was second on the team in rushing TDs with 9; all within the first year of him playing for Army after having to sit out a season because of the NCAA transfer guidelines after transferring from Air Force to Army.

Trent Steelman comes into his third year of starting. The team has road his ability to make smart decisions with the football in their triple option attack and have rarely thrown the ball (averaging just 121.5 attempts per season with him at the helm compared to 199.5 rushing attempts per season by him at QB). Last year, Steelman was a dual threat, showing prowess with his legs as well as his arm as he totaled 1,800 total yards for the team and was responsible for 18 TDs (including a team leading 11 rushing TDs).

As the final pieces of the triple option attack, wingbacks #23 Malcolm Brown from Bay Shore, NY, #32 Brian Cobbs from St. Charles, MO, and #1 Raymond Maples from Philadelphia, PA are expected to share the load as their leading rusher from the position, Patrick Mealy, graduated last year.

The offensive line returns it's anchor in Junior LG #79 Frank Allen from Palmyra, NJ, but will be missing their four other starting offensive linemen, leaving the possibility of keeping up last year's numbers not as bright as many would like to see from them. Look for their offense to possibly struggle unless this group really solidifies itself down the road.



Defense


The defensive line will look totally different from last season as Army tries to replace their school record leader in sacks and tackles for a loss at the position in Josh McNary, who graduated last season. With a defensive setup that's less 4-3 and more 4-4/46 based with specialists being the shining stars, the defensive line will likely be the unsung hero of a defense that's trying to replace numerous talented players lost to the draft.

The linebacker core is definitely the strongest overall section of the defense even with losing star linebacker Stephen Anderson to graduation. The new star of the linebacker core is ROLB #9 Steve Erzinger from Houston, TX. The leading returning tackler on the team (2nd on the team to Stephen Anderson last season with 76 and tied for 3rd the year before with 77), Erzinger is expected to help fill the void of several lost playmakers on the defensive side of the ball.

The second best player on the defensive side of the ball will be featured at the corner position in CB #14 Josh Jackson from Lawrenceville, GA. Jackson, who is also the team's primary punt and kick returner, who will be expected to shut his side of the field down in their swarming defense. CB #3 Antuan Aaron will be playing opposite of Jackson at the other corner spot as they attempt to fill the very large void left by the graduation of safety Donovan Travis, a program defining player who had the second most interceptions in program history during his time on the team.

[Underdog]

Now for the REAL team preview. I will not post a "article" on both sides of the ball seperately. Why you ask???? There simply isn't enough to write about regarding this team.



This team appears to be in shambles and it may take some time to build them back up to at least a competitive level with their Conference USA foes, much less SEC-caliber talent. So let us take a look at what we can expect from the Memphis Tigers this year.




Let's start with the offense. Last year, Memphis started a true freshman at quarterback. You would think that after a year under his belt in the system, he would come in to his sophomore year with more experience and ready to play. But, he decided to transfer to Miami in the off season as Memphis made the switch to a spread offense system.

Their apparent starting quarterback, Andy Summerlin, is a JUCO transfer who had to sit out all last year due to a shoulder injury.

I think you see where this is going, right?

Look for Memphis to try to get the ball in the hands of sophomore RB Jerrell Rhodes to balance their play calling. Their best offensive weapon is probably junior WR Marcus Rucker. Rucker became a quarterbacks best friend last year. He has the size and speed to make plays, and caught 41 passes last year for just over 700 yards and 8 touchdowns.

Memphis' strength seems to be its defensive, specifically the front. Three starters anchor the defensive front - Frank Trotter, Dontari Poe and Corey Jones. Trotter is probably the most capable player on the Tiger defense and this front unit should help relieve the back seven.

Don't look for anything big out of this Memphis team this year. They are clearly in rebuilding mode and have another year or two to get back to where they were under former coach Tommy West.

[Coach Kernzy]

Army could be very tough if the CPU runs that flexbone well because they sure do have the talent to run it and I'm sure that the coach will really mix up the play calling and do some dynamic things with that offense. If the defense can make some stops and get some turnovers the Black Knights would be very good.

Memphis does have a long road back but there are some wins to be had in CUSA and with a strong coaching staff coming in I'm sure they can turn that program around in a hurry.

[HawkFan]

Lobos Start Over Again

Albuquerque, New Mexico --For the past two years the New Mexico Lobo football team has recorded just two wins in twenty-three tries under head coach Mike Locksley. Gripes and grumbling had been growing over the off-season that Locksley and his staff were not the right fit for the once proud Lobo program. Well those gripes did not fall on deaf ears as today the Universities administration relieved Locksley and his staff of their duties and announced a world wide search for the Lobo's next head coach. While no candidates name have leaked as of yet, it's time to put together a quick snap shot of the Lobo team this year and what we can all expect.

Let's start first with the offensive side of the ball. Here's the cold hard truth when it comes to the offense, there are only two returning starters, no clear cut number one quarterback and transfers with no playing experience liter this side of the ball. The two returning starters are wide out Ty Kirk, and center Dillon Farrell, those are our known quantities.

Quarterback will be one position battle to watch this summer as Tarean Austin, Stump Godfrey and BR Holbrook appear to be neck and neck in a race for the starting job. Each of them started or played in parts of seven games last year and Austin and Holbrook are coming back from injury, while Godfrey was forced into action last year because of injury. Not knowing who the coach will be makes it hard to pick a winner of this battle, but if I had to make a decision I would say it will be Holbrook, backed up by Austin.

Wide out and Running Back appear loaded when you look at where these players started their playing careers and experience but that's where the excitement ends. Wide Outs Lamar Thomas (Ohio State) and Deon Long (West Virginia) got big school offers but neither has seen the field and are unknown products. Kasey Carrier and James Wright have been in the Lobo program for a combined seven years but neither has been very productive in that time. To say it is unknown who will become this years Lobo player-maker on offense is a crap shoot is an understatement.

The offensive line is big but inexperienced besides center Dillon Farrell. No one besides Farrell comes back having started more than 5 games and will be tested early and often this year. Bad luck for whoever is the quarterback, as they could be running for their life an awful lot.

Now let's move onto the defensive side of the ball. Where the Lobo lack experience on the offensive side of the ball, they do not lack it on the defensive side of the ball. The Lobos return 8 starters on defense and appear to have a fairly stout front seven on paper. But then again it's just paper.

The defensive line is definitely be the strong part of the defense. As they have three starters back, including bookend defensive ends Jon Rainey and Jaymar Latchinson. Both of them have showed brilliance in the past. Combine them with Calvin Smith patrolling the inside it just might be very tough to run the ball against the Lobos this year. Unfortunately behind those three there is very little depth and injuries could wreak havoc on this part of the defense.

In overall depth the Linebacker position is nowhere as deep as the defensive line for the Lobos, but when it comes to play-makers it is head and shoulders above because of one single player. That player is Carmen Messina (90 overall). Messina will be the undisputed leader of this years defense and as long as he's on the field the Lobo defense has some respectability. Unfortunately after Messina there is not another returning starter and there appears to be a lack of talent (no other above 71).

Secondary wise, all four starters return, that's the good news. The bad news is that while the Lobos ranked 57th in the nation against the pass last year, that number is largerly inflated due to the fact they were 120th against the run and few teams actually had to throw the ball against the Lobos. The standout in the secondary Bubba Forrest who had two picks last year and comes in bigger and faster than last year (74 overall).

With all that said lets look at the Lobo's schedule and makes some predictions.

Colorado State
@ Arkansas
Texas Tech
Sam Houston State
New Mexico State
@ Nevada
@ TCU
Air Force
@ SDSU
UNLV
@ Wyoming
@ Boise State

No Chance in hell winning --Arkansas, Texas Tech, Nevada, TCU, Boise State
Little to no chance --Air Force, SDSU
Even money --Colorado State, UNLV, Wyoming
Better win or else --Sam Houston State, New Mexico State

So that's two wins for sure, three toss ups and seven games they have little to no chance of winning. I am going to say they win the two they should, beat two of three they are even money on and do not pull an upset. So that puts them at 4-8, which would double the win total for the past two years.

Stay tuned for the Lobo's new head coach, who knows when, and who knows who.

[SmoothPancakes]

YES!!! I actually have a chance with Florida International!!! Unlike Florida Atlantic, who gets to enjoy getting stomped on the road by Florida, Michigan State, and Auburn in the first three weeks of the season, Florida International has a much nicer schedule.

Date|Home/Away|Opponent
Thursday, September 1|Home|North Texas
Friday, September 9|Away|Louisville
Saturday, September 17|Home|UCF
Saturday, September 24|Home|Louisiana-Lafayette
Saturday, October 1|Home|Duke
Saturday, October 8|Away|Akron
Tuesday, October 18|Away|Arkansas State
Tuesday, October 25|Home|Troy
Saturday, November 5|Away|Western Kentucky
Saturday, November 12 |Home|Florida Atlantic
Saturday, November 19 |Away|Louisiana-Monroe
Saturday, November 26 |Away|Middle Tennessee

And unlike Florida Atlantic, who's best player on the entire team is a 79 overall Punter, their best offensive player is a 77 overall Left Tackle, and their best QB is rated 68 overall, Florida International's best player is a 79 overall WR, with a 78 overall QB, a 77 overall Kicker, and a 76 overall HB. This could end up being quite a decent year for Florida International.

And I would like to thank Coach Kernzy, who, as I still had not yet made up my mind as to whether I wanted to play as Kent State or Florida International as of the first post of this thread, put FIU as my team of choice in the official dynasty roster.

As Coach Kernzy has FIU as my team on that roster, I hereby officially announce that I am indeed to going take over FIU, especially after taking a look at their roster on the Teambuilder site and looking at their schedule for 2011. :)

[Cipher 8]

So I've made my choice. gschwendt I'll try to make you proud as I'm going with...http://th206.photobucket.com/albums/bb71/bettyb444/Emoticons/th_drumroll.gif





:Arkansas_State:

[Cipher 8]

Could this be the year?

http://a.espncdn.com/prod/assets/clubhouses/2010/ncaa/logos/2032.png

Offensive overview: ASU is all about the offense. The receiving corps is loaded, the running game is fine, giving them more than enough weapons on offense. With the skill players in place now the spotlight will be on the talented (86 OVR) Junior QB Ryan Aplin to do even more. The 6-1, 205-pounder got his feet wet as a freshman, and then he put it all together last season throwing for 2,934 yards and 21 touchdowns while finishing second on the team in rushing with 477 yards and 11 rushing scores. He turned into the Sun Belt’s best quarterback and emerged as ASU's leader and playmaker by guiding the offense to 403 yards and 30 points per game earning All-Sun Belt honors. Last year the offense put up yards in chunks, and the running game played well enough to get by, but this year under new coach Cipher 8, there will be some changes to the offense.

What to watch for on offense:
Former Head Coach Steve Roberts couldn’t get the team over the hump to play at a consistently high level after taking the team to the 2006 Sun Belt title, and left it up to Hugh Freeze. Freeze installed an offensive system that relied more on up-tempo play and a faster pace in order to try to exploit the mismatches and generate more big plays. Last year his up-tempo, no-huddle attack did everything it was supposed to do. (ASU Third Quarter Scoring: 42 – ASU Fourth Quarter Scoring: 142) This year however ASU fans can expect some changes under new coach Cipher 8. Cipher 8 plans to do away with the no-huddle approach and will install a new version of the Multiple offense focused on ball control. He wants to bring a resurgence of when ASU owned one of the most devastating running games in the Sun Belt.

The new coach's focus on the running game is for a multitude of reasons but none is more important than to better manage the clock and help out the defense. Last year ASU's opponents clocked in at 33:03 time of possession while Arkansas State had 26:57. Improving on time of possession is a must if the team wishes to get better at closing games out. If there was any semblance of defensive production last season, things would’ve been far different and Freeze would’ve still been the head coach. ASU should’ve been able to beat Louisiana, was in the hunt against Troy, and should’ve come away with wins against Indiana and Western Kentucky. Throw in the 31-24 loss to FIU in the season finale, and the Red Wolves lost five games by seven points or fewer with a two-point loss to IU and a one point heartbreaker to WKU. Five games. 4-8 could easily be 6-6 with this veteran team doing more in crunch time and with better clock management. It starts with doing all the little things right. You don’t lose as many close games as ASU did without having problems, and a lot of the issues came down to mistakes at the wrong times. The offense converted just 34% of its third down chances, while the defense couldn’t get off the field. Also ASU struggled on both offense and defense with Fourth Down Conversions: Opponents 13-of-19 (68%) – Arkansas State 7-of-16 (44%). Coach Cipher 8 plans to set his team up for better success on third down as well as fourth downs and goalline situations by keeping the defense fresh and by implementing a ball control drain the clock offense. ASU has several good backs to work with. Derek Lawson (78 OVR) and (73 OVR) Jermaine Robertson, who both could carry the offense, will split the carries keeping them both fresh throughout the game. And don't forget Aplin can also boogie. All of this will surely help ASU come up with more wins rather than losses.

ASU fans don't worry though, the attack will still revolve heavily around the passing game but Cipher 8 want's to set up more play action opportunities. If Aplin can grasp and manage the tweaked offensive system under ASU's new coach's tutelage then ASU should be just fine. A heavy focus on the run should also set up more play action opportunities and help Aplin throw with accuracy and limit his turnovers. ASU didn’t have big problems with giveaways, but they went 0-3 when Ryan Aplin threw two picks and 2-6 when he threw any interceptions. With Ryan Aplin a veteran, seasoned decision-maker now working with a loaded receiving corps and a new tweaked offense, it should make Aplin and the ASU passing game a threat for any opponent on the schedule. Dwayne Frampton (75 OVR) is a quick interior receiver, Taylor Stockemer (70 OVR) is a dangerous, big deep threat, and Allen Muse (74 OVR) is a 6-4 slot target who finished second on the team last season. Throw in starting tight end Kedric Murry (71 OVR) and a 4,000-yard passing season isn’t that out of reach.

One area of concern on offense is along the offensive line. They need Aplin to stay upright if they are to expect any kind of success. There will be a lot of work to do with the offensive line undergoing an overhaul. While their skill players might be in place, they have four new starters up front with only (70 OVR) Senior OT Delano Moore returning. The senior left tackle is strong and tough, but all that matters is whether or not he can protect the passer. Ultimately though, It all comes down to Aplin. We all know where a good QB can take an offense. If he plays great they could be looking upwards at a 8-4 record and a huge turnaround. If Aplin takes a step back in the new offense well so will the team's record.

If everything clicks at once and the team can come together under Cipher 8 then ASU may finally rise to be a contender in the Sun Belt once again and maybe even have a chance at a couple conference titles in the next few seasons. The Sun Belt isn’t the SEC West; going from bad to special isn’t that hard. This Arkansas State team can do it, and it should be an entertaining ride.

Defensive overview: As good as the O was, it couldn’t make up for the problems on the D. It's pretty straight forward, the defense often didn't hold up which forced the Red Wolves to try to survive shootout after shootout. The Red Wolves led the Sun Belt in total defense and scoring defense back in 2009 but they went from special in 2009 to disastrous in 2010. After leading the league in most major categories in 2009, ASU was last in the Sun Belt in total defense giving up 437 yards and 31 points per game. Their biggest struggle? Run defense. Last in the Sun Belt and 110th in the nation, ASU gave up 207 yards per game and allowed 21 touchdown runs. It didn’t help to start out the season against Auburn and having to deal with Navy, but seven teams cranked out 200 yards or more with great backs like WKU’s Bobby Rainey and UNT’s Lance Dunbar running wild. The Red Wolves went 2-5 when allowing 200 yards or more.

What to watch for on defense: The new coach was brought in for one reason alone and that is to get more out of the defense this year. With seven starters returning, the potential is there for a little bit of a turnaround, while the offense has the firepower to be even stronger.


Returning Leaders:
Tackles: Kelcie McCray, 79
Sacks: Brandon Joiner, 4
Interceptions: Demario Davis, Adrian Hills, Kelcie McCray, 2

All the top skill players are back, the defense is loaded with good veterans, and the special teams should be among the best in the conference. Their best defensive player by far is Senior LB Demario Davis (75 OVR). The 6-3, 230-pound senior linebacker, who made 63 tackles with a sack and three tackles for loss after leading the team with 80 tackles two years ago, is a great open field tackler, hard hitting too (http://youtu.be/fbkUjHgnPvM?t=2m26s), with excellent athleticism. He has the potential to be a special defender again this year, Sun Belt Player of the Year type of playmaker on defense, and should be the star of the defensive front six or seven.

ASU uses a 4-2-5 more often than not, but the Red Wolves have several players ready to work in a 4-3. Cipher 8 brings in his own philosophy on defense but it's still based around a 4-3 front with frequent use of the 4-2-5 and Nickel formations. The Red Wolves and Cipher 8 like to manufacture pressure from several spots, but the line should do its part to get into the backfield.

Cipher 8 is hoping the defensive front four can step up and be disruptive this year by doing more to hit the quarterback as well as keeping from getting shoved around. He's relying on the tackles to become a rock against the run this year after finishing 110th in the nation against the run last year. This group needs work but there’s really no excuse with good size and the quickness across the board. It would be nice if the defensive tackles Amos Draper (70 OVR) and Dorvus Woods (70 OVR) could mesh and clog up some blockers to free up Davis to make the tackles but ultimately it’s going to fall on Davis who has the range, the speed, the size, and the experience to be a top tackler and good all-around playmaker. Can he start to do more in the backfield? Can he do even more against the pass after making two picks? He’s the leader who should set the tone for the entire defense. They have some talent elsewhere like at MLB with Nathan Herrold (76 OVR) returning after finishing fourth on the team with 78 tackles and 3.5 tackles for loss. He’s a terrific tackler with great range and hitting ability. Also SS Kelcie McCray (78 OVR) has some ball-hawking skills and the range to be all over the field and can come down in the box to help out against the run when needed. At 6-2 and 195 pounds he’s a tall, tough tackler who’s built to be a top free safety but will start out at strong safety. A former high school quarterback, he has a way of sniffing out plays and should do even more against the pass after picking off two passes last season. McCray is the leader of a promising five man secondary that needs more production after allowing 230 yards per game and finishing 101st in the nation in pass efficiency defense. The Red Wolves were 0-4 last season when they gave up three touchdown passes or more, and they were 2-6 when allowing two scores or more. Even Navy got in on the act completing 8-of-9 passes for 164 yards and a score. While all areas of the defense need improvement the defensive front seven is the primary concern. They first need to prove they can stop someone’s running game before ASU can expect to compete for the conference title.

The schedule: If the Red Wolves can take care of the little fish on the road, they should have a big chance to make plenty of Sun Belt noise against the big fish. FIU and Troy, likely the two best teams in the conference, have to come to ASU and there’s two weeks to prepare for the Trojans and ten days to get ready for the Golden Panthers. The home game against FIU will be huge. If you want to be the champ, you have to beat the champ. This makes the FIU showdown in Jonseboro all the more important. The Red Wolves lost in a heartbreaker last season after giving up a 42-yard touchdown pass in the final minutes. The non-conference slate has two rough paydays against Illinois and Virginia Tech, but Memphis and Central Arkansas are winnable, or should be. ( ;) Underdog) Starting out the Sun Belt slate on the road at WKU and ULM will make-or-break the conference season. If ASU can pull off those two, they'll be in good shape.



http://www.astateredwolves.com/fls/7200/site_graphics/2010//logo.png
:Arkansas_State:
: 2011 Schedule:
Date Opponent Time/Result
Sat, Sep 3 @ :Illinois: 3:30 pm
Sat, Sep 10 vs :Memphis: TBA
Sat, Sep 17 @ (17) :Virginia_Tech: 4:00 pm
Sat, Sep 24 vs FCS :Central_Arkansas: TBA
Sat, Oct 1 @ :Western_Kentucky: 7:00 pm
Sat, Oct 8 @ :UL_Monroe: TBA
Tue, Oct 18 vs :FIU: 8:00 pm
Sat, Oct 29 vs :North_Texas: TBA
Sat, Nov 5 @ :FAU: TBA
Sat, Nov 12 vs :Louisiana: TBA
Sat, Nov 19 @ :MTSU: TBA
OPEN DATE
Sat, Dec 3 vs :Troy: TBA


:Sun_Belt:

Florida International
Troy
Middle Tennessee
Arkansas State
Louisiana-Monroe
Florida Atlantic
Louisiana-Lafayette
North Texas
Western Kentucky

The season will be a success if … ASU wins 7+ games. The offense should be able to bomb its way to wins even if the defense hasn’t improved. The last seven-win campaign came in 1978, and it’s time to finally get back over the hump. Home wins over Central Arkansas, North Texas, and Louisiana-Lafayette are a must, and if ASU is good enough to be in the hunt for seven wins, it’ll be good enough to beat WKU and ULM on the road. It’ll take a few upsets, like at Florida Atlantic, but again, the firepower should be enough to get past several of the mediocre teams.

[jmiles562000]

Hey guys. I want into the league!

[Coach Kernzy]

Pick one of these teams and you'll be our 12th if Cody is still in but if not we'll have one more spot to fill.

Akron
E Michigan
Kent St
Louisiana
Middle Tenn
N Mexico St
San Jose St
Tulane
UAB
ULM
Utah St
W Kentucky

I gotta say I never dreamed this would fill up before release. Coach Mode lives!!!

[Cipher 8]

You should post a link to the other thread in the main post here so people know to read through it and get a bit of the understanding of the rules or guidelines that have already been discussed.

[Coach Kernzy]

You should post a link to the other thread in the main post here so people know to read through it and get a bit of the understanding of the rules or guidelines that have already been discussed.

As you wish...

[jmiles562000]

Ill take Tulane! New Orleans Baby!!!!

[AustinWolv]

North Texas

A new stadium and a new coach in well-known Dan McCarney, famous for rebuilding programs and working with some of the brightest coaches in football, means a new start for the Mean Green.

The new program will put an emphasis on defense, which was lacking in the past. It may be a rough year through the air though as the secondary doesn't have much talent, but if the DL and LB can play to their potential and perhaps overachieve some, then the defense could be fairly stable.

The offense will strive to utilize proven standout RB Lance Dunbar despite losing key OL to graduation. The QB might help the running game as he has a bit of mobility.

Thu, Sep 01 at FIU
Sat, Sep 10 Houston
Sat, Sep 17 at Alabama
Sat, Sep 24 Indiana
Sat, Oct 01 at Tulsa
Sat, Oct 08 Florida Atlantic
Sat, Oct 15 at Louisiana-Lafayette
Sat, Oct 22 ULM
Sat, Oct 29 at Arkansas State
Sat, Nov 12 at Troy
Sat, Nov 19 Western Kentucky
Sat, Dec 03 Middle Tennessee St

[Coach Kernzy]

Tough 4 game non-con stretch there with Houston, Alabama, Indiana and Tulsa. Might be able to get Indiana. That'd be a good win.

[Coach Kernzy]

Ill take Tulane! New Orleans Baby!!!!

OK, you do realize this is strictly coach mode, no controlling players after the snap right?

[jmiles562000]

yes sir. im a homer. wanna try turning that program around and utalize the talents thats there.

[Coach Kernzy]

Good deal, I've got you locked in up there on the first post so stay tuned.

[JBHuskers]

Any way we can get a quick Cliff's Notes of the rules? Or are there any set yet?

[Coach Kernzy]

Right now I think since we aren't controlling the players there isn't much possibility for cheese and whatnot so I guess anything you can do pre-snap is fair game but if you or anyone else has suggestions we're all listening certainly.

[Coach Kernzy]

You've got the game JB, you'd know better than me if there are things in Coach Mode that could be exploited without having rules. But the problem is enforcing any rules there really isn't any way to other than hoping guys have enough integrity to follow the rules.

[Cipher 8]

I would like to suggest that if we are able to use custom playbooks, and I think we should be able to, that we are required to post a list of our formations on this forum.

There's a discussion about this rule going on in the Playbook Questions Thread.
Most people who are serious about the game are going to use a custom playbook, so even if you could see the default "style" label for the book I agree with the previous poster that it wouldn't necessarily mean anything. There really wasn't an advantage to seeing anything on the loading screen for '11 either, considering that by the time you're at the loading screen your own playbook is locked in anyway.

When my OD restarts for '12, I'm going to have anyone who uses a custom playbook post the formation names and number of plays per formation for the book. At least this way, users will know generally what kind of looks they might face, and it reflects a compromise between not knowing anything at all about an opponent's offense (which is completely unrealistic compared to real life), and knowing too much (like, knowing specific plays in the book, which is also somewhat unrealistic because IRL you'd know the plays that have been run in the past, but not ALL the plays in the book).

I like this idea because IRL you can scout your opponent and at least have a general knowledge of what type of offense your going to face. Then you prepare your team during the week before the game to face that offense. Simply going in blind is not very realistic. Or we could do it where after your game you have to post what formations you used so then if upcoming opponents want to scout you they can and then you can also change up your offense but they know what you like to run or what you have run... idk how it should work but if the other members here do not like this idea then I guess we don't have to include it. Just thought I would suggest it.

[Cipher 8]

Any way we can get a quick Cliff's Notes of the rules? Or are there any set yet?

I'll try to go back through the last thread and compile the stuff that was said, Coach K can then edit it into the main post.

[JBHuskers]

You've got the game JB, you'd know better than me if there are things in Coach Mode that could be exploited without having rules. But the problem is enforcing any rules there really isn't any way to other than hoping guys have enough integrity to follow the rules.

To my knowledge no. I think my question on rules were for moving up in jobs if there was free reign or limitations.

[SmoothPancakes]

Right now I think since we aren't controlling the players there isn't much possibility for cheese and whatnot so I guess anything you can do pre-snap is fair game but if you or anyone else has suggestions we're all listening certainly.

And this is the exact reason that this is the one and only online dynasty that I am ever joining/ever going to play in during my history of playing NCAA Football. Every single OD ends up with at least one cheeser, maybe not ever play, but they will pull out some cheesy shit every now and then during a game. I want nothing to do with any of that crap. So unless I'm in a dynasty like this one were it's coach mode and these cheesy ass douchebags can't do a damn thing besides picking a play, I'll forever stick to my single player ODs.

[Coach Kernzy]

Yeah I think the plan was that you can jump no more that 2* when taking a new job and can move around at will each season so conceivably you could be leading a 5* team by year 3 if you wanted to do that. I would imagine that most of us though if not all of us that will be very unlikely to happen.

[Coach Kernzy]

And this is the exact reason that this is the one and only online dynasty that I am ever joining/ever going to play in during my history of playing NCAA Football. Every single OD ends up with at least one cheeser, maybe not ever play, but they will pull out some cheesy shit every now and then during a game. I want nothing to do with any of that crap. So unless I'm in a dynasty like this one were it's coach mode and these cheesy ass douchebags can't do a damn thing besides picking a play, I'll forever stick to my single player ODs.

AMEN Smooth, I've always played coach mode and never anything but, that's why I skipped the first couple/few years of current gen NCAA because it didn't even have auto-pass. The best years by far of coach mode were 06 and 07 on the old Xbox. Some great times and memories with those games but I really think this season with 12 could be the best ever.

[Cipher 8]

General Rules/Guidelines all players must follow:


Must start at a :1star: school either as a Head Coach or I guess you could do a Offensive or Defensive Coordinator if you really wanted to.

When accepting a new job offer there is a limit on how far you can jump up. You can only accept a new job position at no more than :2star: higher than your current position. If you're jumping from coordinator to head coach it can only be a :1star: jump. So +:2star: if you stay at current position but when jumping from coordinator to head coach only +:1star: limit. See Spoiler for detailed explanation and example:

Coach K's starts out at :1star: :Western_Michigan: as Head Coach.
After the first season he gets a job offer to move to Heach Coach at :2star: :Minnesota: or Offensive Coordinator at :3star: :Pitt: or stay where he is at and finish out his contract. He accepts Pitt's offer.

He plays through the second season, being Pitts's Offensive Coordinator, and they win the Big East. Now at the end of the season during the coaching carousel he gets a different job offer to be Head Coach at :5star: :Iowa:. A dream job if there ever was one this early. However, since he is a coordinator at Pitt. he is not allowed to accept this offer, even though the game offered it to him because he would be moving up from coordinator to head coach and making a +:2star: jump from a 3 star to a 5 star program. Not allowed within the guidelines. So he must stay at Pitt or accept a job offer elsewhere within the guidelines. Say he stays at Pitt for another year, the third season of the dynasty, and wins another Big East title. With back to back Big East titles Pitt's school prestige rating is :4star:

During that offseason's Coaching Carousel Coach K gets offered the Offensive Coordinator position at :6star: :Penn_State:. Even though it's within the +:2star: range (Pitt now being a :4star: school) as long as he stays at the same position (OC), he still cannot accept because when he entered at Pitt it was a :3star: school. It goes by the school's rating when you got there not when you leave. So he must decline the offer.

However say Coach K is lucky and in the same carousel he is offered a position at :5star: :Boise_State: to be their offensive coordinator because their former OC was hired by Penn State in the job he had to decline (Ouch!). Coach K could accept that position because 3+2=5 so it's within range. He does accept it.

Now at Boise Coach K stays there for 3 seasons and wins a National Title in his third year there. He's now a A+ prestige offensive coordinator at a :5star: school. He's going to get a ton of job offers, and he'll decline most of them, but he happens to get lucky and it just so happens that :6star: :Oregon: fired their Heach Coach and offered Coach K a job their at that position. He accepts and is allowed to do so, making the jump from coordinator to head coach because it's only a +:1star: difference. Of course Coach K could've taken any job at any position at a school under :5star: which he was at too if he wanted to move to Head Coach from Coordinator. There are no restrictions on moving down a star rating and there are no restrictions on staying at one school for too long. As long as you meet your goals and get offers extended to you, you can stay with a team and build them up.


That's all I saw listed and I'm sure there will be more discussion as we get closer to getting this league started.

[JBHuskers]

Coach, do you want me to move this over to the Coach Mode section like you had said earlier....I think it would be easier for us to get to.

[JBHuskers]

General Rules/Guidelines all players must follow:


Must start at a :1star: school either as a Head Coach or I guess you could do a Offensive or Defensive Coordinator if you really wanted to.

When accepting a new job offer there is a limit on how far you can jump up. You can only accept a new job position at no more than :2star: higher than your current position. If you're jumping from coordinator to head coach it can only be a :1star: jump. So +:2star: if you stay at current position but when jumping from coordinator to head coach only +:1star: limit. See Spoiler for detailed explanation and example:

Coach K's starts out at :1star: :Western_Michigan: as Head Coach.
After the first season he gets a job offer to move to Heach Coach at :2star: :Minnesota: or Offensive Coordinator at :3star: :Pitt: or stay where he is at and finish out his contract. He accepts Pitt's offer.
After the second season, being Pitts's Offensive Coordinator, he gets a different job offer to be Head Coach at :5star: :Iowa:. He is not allowed to accept this offer, even though the game offered it to him because he would be moving up from a 3 star to a 5 star program. So he must stay at Pitt or accept a job elsewhere within the guidelines.
So say he stays at Pitt for another year and wins back to back Big East titles. Now Pitt's school prestige rating is :4star: and Coach K gets offered the Offensive Coordinator position at :6star: :Penn_State:. Even though it's within the +:2star: range as long as he stays at the same position (OC) he cannot accept because when he entered at Pitt it was a :3star: school. It goes by the school's rating when you got there not when you leave. So he must decline but then say :5star: :Boise_State: offers him their offensive coordinator position because theirs was hired by Penn State and it opened up. Coach K could accept that position because 3+2=5 so it's within range.
So say he stays at Boise for 3 years and wins a National Title in his third year. He's now a A+ prestige offensive coordinator at a :5star: school. He's going to get a ton of job offers, and he'll decline most of them, but he happens to get lucky and it just so happens that :6star: :Oregon: fired their Heach Coach and offered Coach K a job their at that position. He accepts and is allowed to do so, making the jump from coordinator to head coach because it's only a +:1star: difference. Of course Coach K could've taken any job at any position at a school under :5star: which he was at too if he wanted to move to Head Coach from Coordinator. There are no restrictions on moving down a star rating and there are no restrictions on staying at one school for too long. As long as you meet your goals and get offers extended to you, you can stay with a team and build them up.


That all I saw listed and I'm sure there will be more discussion as we get closer to getting this league started.

Thanks, I'm going to move this to the first post of the thread.

[SmoothPancakes]

I would like to suggest that if we are able to use custom playbooks, and I think we should be able to, that we are required to post a list of our formations on this forum.

There's a discussion about this rule going on in the Playbook Questions Thread.

I like this idea because IRL you can scout your opponent and at least have a general knowledge of what type of offense your going to face. Then you prepare your team during the week before the game to face that offense. Simply going in blind is not very realistic. Or we could do it where after your game you have to post what formations you used so then if upcoming opponents want to scout you they can and then you can also change up your offense but they know what you like to run or what you have run... idk how it should work but if the other members here do not like this idea then I guess we don't have to include it. Just thought I would suggest it.

Here's what I just posted in the Playbook thread.



In real life when you're scouting an opponent, you know every formation they've come out in, every play they've run (and tendencies based on every down/distance situation), and you've seen tape of your opponent actually running their plays in past games. None of this is contained in the video game (despite the availability of some of this information, a la the scouting reports in Madden), and it's one of the biggest gaps in "realism" in the NCAA Football series. This gap is particularly evident when you consider that in online dynasties you're supposed to be the coach, and one of a coach's top responsibilities is scouting your opponents. So, simply disclosing what formations and number of plays are in your book isn't intrusive or heavy handed, from that perspective. And, considering many people are going to spend hours cooking up their custom playbook, taking 5 minutes to jot down your formations and play counts doesn't take much work.

You may know everything they've run in the past, however, teams are always adding/creating plays now and then for a certain team, to take advantage of issues with that team's defense. Or a team will never use a certain formation for half the season, then bring it out for a big game against their rival or something to throw them off a bit and bring out something that they didn't prepare for during practice. I think the thing I wouldn't agree with is forcing people to list every single formation in their playbook, as at that point, you may as well force them to list their entire playbook, play for play. You're not going to go up to another team in real life the week you play them and say "I'd like to have a list of every single formation in your playbook". Maybe listing the base formations, but not every single one.

[Coach Kernzy]

Coach, do you want me to move this over to the Coach Mode section like you had said earlier....I think it would be easier for us to get to.

If you think that would be beneficial I'm fine with that.

[SmoothPancakes]

Also, just a thought, are we going to create a forum for this dynasty in the Online Dynasty subforum at the bottom of the forums with the rest of the ODs?

I think we should, that way we can have a separate thread for members, for rules, for stuff each week and setting up games between two human players, etc. It'd make things much nicer and organized.

[JBHuskers]

Also, just a thought, are we going to create a forum for this dynasty in the Online Dynasty subforum at the bottom of the forums with the rest of the ODs?

I think we should, that way we can have a separate thread for members, for rules, for stuff each week and setting up games between two human players, etc. It'd make things much nicer and organized.

The rules for that are the commish has to be a donator (not trying to nudge anyone here ;)) :D

[JBHuskers]

Thread has been moved.

[Coach Kernzy]

As far as playbooks or custom playbooks go...We are all spread out enough that there aren't going to be very many user v user games so I don't really think it's an issue and besides I think part of the fun is adjusting my gameplan and such during a game to either counter or take advantage of what my opponent is doing.
Maybe we can make it mandatory to give a short description of your offense and defensive philosophy for example mine would be.

Western Michigan
Offense: A mix of pro and spread formations built to be very balanced and leaning more towards the run game.
Defesne: 4-3 & 4-2-5 bases with an emphasis on zone coverage and few blitzes. Bend but don't break.

[Coach Kernzy]

I don't necessarily have to be commish, I notice there are several folks in the league that are donators so technically I think we maybe should be allowed our own hosted OD forum :) However I'm also willing to donate if you'll give me the info necessary via PM JB.

[SmoothPancakes]

The rules for that are the commish has to be a donator (not trying to nudge anyone here ;)) :D

Well, we already have a bunch of donators in this thing. Yourself, myself, mors, AustinWolv, Hawkfan. Just proclaim one of us five as the "commish" to create the OD subforum for this thing, and then have Coach Kernzy as the official commish in the game. Problem solved. :D

[Cipher 8]

Thanks, I'm going to move this to the first post of the thread.

I edited it, spelling errors so idk if you already moved it but you may want to copy paste the edited version. Just a heads up.

[JBHuskers]

Well, we already have a bunch of donators in this thing. Yourself, myself, mors, AustinWolv, Hawkfan. Just proclaim one of us five as the "commish" to create the OD subforum for this thing, and then have Coach Kernzy as the official commish in the game. Problem solved. :D

Talk to CDJ then...he adds those in to the bottom of the forum.

[SmoothPancakes]

Talk to CDJ then...he adds those in to the bottom of the forum.

Alright, I'll shoot him a PM and get the ball rolling. AustinWolv and myself are the only ones online right now, so no one else to do it.

And ideas on what we want the name of the subforum to be? TGT Coach Mode (360)? TGT Coach Mode OD (360)? Something else?

[Coach Kernzy]

Come on JB, you are tight with him and you're an admin. As I said, I'm willing to donate and more than likely will anyway but it would be very beneficial to everyone involved for us to have our own OD forum.

[Coach Kernzy]

TGT Coach Mode OD (360).......I'd say just go with that

[SmoothPancakes]

Works for me. :D I suppose if for some reason we were to want a different name down the road, JB or cdj can change it if we asked. Sending cdj a PM right now.

[Coach Kernzy]

Boy, we're going to be big time now :)

[JBHuskers]

Works for me. :D I suppose if for some reason we were to want a different name down the road, JB or cdj can change it if we asked. Sending cdj a PM right now.

:up:

[SmoothPancakes]

Boy, we're going to be big time now :)

Yep, we're about to hit the front page of the forums. :)

And PM has been sent, so it's just a matter of waiting to hear back from cdj and when he's able to take care of creating the forum.

[Coach Kernzy]

Hope everyone can find us since we're moving all over the place. Once we get settled I'll send everyone in the league a PM with the new location.

[Coach Kernzy]

As you can see I am now the proud owner of a larger avatar thanks to a 2 year TGT donation. :)

[JBHuskers]

As you can see I am now the proud owner of a larger avatar thanks to a 2 year TGT donation. :)

:up: thanks for the donation....now we can DEFINITELY have our own section :D

[Coach Kernzy]

What a bargain, best $9 I ever spent :up:

[Cipher 8]

What's our Quarter Length?
Thank you, Dr.

Good questions. First, I snap the ball when I am ready to do so. The only time I burn up the clock intentionally is when I am using Chew Clock.

For the record, my rule of thumb is to not use Chew Clock until there is 1/8 of the game (1/2 a quarter), or less, remaining. So, in 9-minute quarters, I don't use it till there is 4:30 or less remaining. I feel like I'm cheating the CPU if I do it before then.

Yes, these games are as a head coach. I have started a test Dynasty as a DC and using 9 minutes seems to produce too many snaps. I'm going to get feedback from other OD members, but right now I'm thinking of going with 7-minutes when we're all coordinators, 8 if we're split, and 9 when we're all head coaches.
I really hope it's not 5 Min. I'm use to doing 8 Min. but yeah really anything above 5 and below 10 is what I feel is right.

[SmoothPancakes]

Woohoo!!! We have our own dynasty sub-forum!

[Coach Kernzy]

Yeah I've always played 8 minutes in all my years of coach mode.

[JBHuskers]

taaadaaaa

http://www.thegamingtailgate.com/forums/forumdisplay.php?67-TGT-Coach-Mode-OD-(360)

[Coach Kernzy]

I see that and it shows you as the commish :)
Again I certainly don't need to be so if someone else wants to run the show we can vote or whatever.
We need JB to move this thread to our dedicated thread now and how do we setup sub sections in there for rules and whatever else we want. Let's discuss......

[JBHuskers]

I see that and it shows you as the commish :)
Again I certainly don't need to be so if someone else wants to run the show we can vote or whatever.
We need JB to move this thread to our dedicated thread now and how do we setup sub sections in there for rules and whatever else we want. Let's discuss......

I'll fix that.

[JBHuskers]

Fixed....this is your baby Coach K :D

[SmoothPancakes]

Well, pretty much the staple threads that we'll want and will end up making a sticky:

Coach Mode OD Roster
Coach Mode OD Rules
User vs User Scheduling (we have a couple people in the Sun Belt together so there will definitely be some user games)
and maybe a Waitlist thread sometime down the road in the future if more people get interested and want to sign up for the future if someone drops out.

[Coach Kernzy]

So JB, can I make stickies in this forum or do I need to ask you or how will this work going forward.

Let's make as Smooth suggested...

Owner/waiting list
Rules
User vs user scheduling

Anything else right now?

Also go ahead and sticky this thread at the top for right now I guess.

[SmoothPancakes]

That should be good for now. We can make this thread just the "general discussion" thread for the dynasty. Then if we want, like other ODs have done, have separate threads for each week of the season, if people want to post scores, game summaries or comments about their games, give recruiting updates, etc.

[JBHuskers]

So JB, can I make stickies in this forum or do I need to ask you or how will this work going forward.

Let's make as Smooth suggested...

Owner/waiting list
Rules
User vs user scheduling

Anything else right now?

Also go ahead and sticky this thread at the top for right now I guess.


You can create the threads, just send me a PM of what you want stickied....I'm heading out for now, but can sticky them when I get back.

[JBHuskers]

Add me to 360 for those who haven't yet....it's JBHuskers, just shoot me a message on 360 letting me know you added me, since I usually just don't add random people with the friend limit.

[SmoothPancakes]

Add me to 360 for those who haven't yet....it's JBHuskers, just shoot me a message on 360 letting me know you added me, since I usually just don't add random people with the friend limit.

I can't remember if I have you on my friends list already or not. I'll have to take a look here when I get done with this game.

As for me, my gamertag is Smooth Pancakes (same thing as here, but WITH a space).

I do know for a fact I have AustinWolv, mors, and natcret on my friends list. But I think that's it, besides thinking I have JB as well but can't remember for sure.

[JBHuskers]

I can't remember if I have you on my friends list already or not. I'll have to take a look here when I get done with this game.

As for me, my gamertag is Smooth Pancakes (same thing as here, but WITH a space).

I do know for a fact I have AustinWolv, mors, and natcret on my friends list. But I think that's it, besides thinking I have JB as well but can't remember for sure.

Pretty sure you are on mine, as I'm an emergency option for Tiger if you need one.

[SmoothPancakes]

Pretty sure you are on mine, as I'm an emergency option for Tiger if you need one.

Oh! That's right. So yeah, you are on mine then, now that I remember that. So yeah, I have four people from here on my list already. Just need to add the others.

[Cipher 8]

So we are going to still be able to create a coach and name him and do the looks and all that right?

How many of you are just going to use your name?

I'm thinking about role playing.




Mike Grant

He is the son of the hall of fame coach and former Vikings legend Bud Grant and a disciple of the coach with the most victories in college football history. John Gagliard is currently the head football coach at Saint John's University in Collegeville, Minnesota, a position he has held since 1953. From 1949 to 1952. With a career record of 478–129–11, Gagliardi has the most wins of any coach in college football history. His Saint John's Johnnies teams have won four national titles: the NAIA National Football Championship in 1963 and 1965, and the NCAA Division III National Football Championship in 1976 and 2003. Gagliardi was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2006. With Chris Ault and Joe Paterno, he is one of three active coaches in the Hall of Fame. "I was lucky I didn't have to go far to watch the best,'' Mike Grant said. "One was my dad; the other was a mentor and someone I call a close friend. [Gagliardi]''

Grant played and coached at St. John's University under John Gagliardi. He was a gifted all-around player at St. John's. An all-conference tight end when he helped the Johnnies win an NCAA Division III national championship in 1977. Grant later joined Gagliardi’s staff in the late 1980s and deepened his understanding of how the program was run. He didn't have major aspirations to play professional football because he had a teaching job lined up at Minnetonka after graduation, but he was offered a tryout with the Vikings by his father. While the opportunity to play for his father with the Vikings may have been enticing, He declined. "He could have been a lot of things in life. I'm sure he would have been a really good lawyer," Gagliardi said, "but he is the kind of guy that wanted to teach and coach." "The psychology of creating a championship program is something I learned from (Gagliardi),'' Grant said. "As a freshman up there, I remember feeling I was part of the greatest program ever. We just don't lose. We just don't make mistakes. We try to instill the same things at Eden Prairie. Like those St. John's teams, we are just common guys playing the game of football.''

Grant is calm and level during practice, much like Gagliardi. He is similarly meticulous in his preparation and game planning. Gagliardi is flattered that Grant emulates his philosophy and approach to the game. "That is quite a compliment." he says. Grant has adopted Gagliardi's stress-free practice atmosphere, which includes practicing in shorts and with no live tackling. Gagliardi is known for his unique coaching approach, which he calls "Winning with No's." He instructs his players not to call him "coach", does not use a whistle or blocking sleds, prohibits tackling in practices, does not require his players to lift weights, and limits his team practices to 90 minutes. “I have guys on my staff that coached at St. John’s, and they say I’m getting more like John everyday,” Grant said. “John is a brilliant coach, a brilliant technical and tactical coach.” While Gagliardi is the Hall of Fame coach he claims, "I probably ask him for more advice than he asks me." After all, he's got good genes. His dad, in my estimation, is one of the greatest coaches of all time.'' Bud Grant coached the Vikings for 18 seasons after gaining coaching fame with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in the Canadian Football League. He coached the Minnesota Vikings to 158 victories from 1967-1985 and led them to four Super Bowls.

While Bud coached Mike grew up around football. Mike learned the ins and outs and had many responsibilities as a ball boy. Bud Grant chuckles at the memories of Pete and Mike, two of his four sons, doing various chores while he coached in Winnipeg and with the Vikings. "They have been in locker rooms (since) the time they could walk,'' Bud said. "I think that is an advantage. They saw the celebrations and the despair. They weren't in awe of some big-named players. "Being in the Vikings locker room, some would say that is really great. I had to tell (Mike) that whatever (bad things) you see, you don't want to emulate that. Some of the players were vulgar and loud, and when you get 55 guys together, it can get really bad. He never heard me swear. That language wasn't necessary.'' Bud said Mike never asked any questions when it came to coaching. "He is an observer, just like me,'' Bud said of Mike, who admires the same thing about his father." "Maybe the greatest lesson I learned from my dad was to see everything. Watch, listen and see everything going on the field. Then you pick the time to have a conversation about something. Some think he's not coaching, but really he's absolutely seeing everything.''

Being a studious pupil has served Mike Grant well in building his Eden Prairie Eagles into Minnesota's premier high school football program. While Grant inherited an astute knowledge of football X’s and O’s from both men, it is the less tangible elements of coaching, he says, that have been the most important lessons he has grasped. “Both of them are really practical, common sense guys, but they are also great sports psychologists,” Grant said. Additionally, they both fostered a culture of winning that Grant has internalized, and now promotes at Eden Prairie. “We’ve won about 95 percent of our games the last 15 years. It’s not easy to keep that going,” says Grant, who speaks with Gaglairdi weekly. “There’s a psychology of how you keep them motivated. We’re not yellers and screamers, and we don’t swear. But we do have really high expectations about film.”

Grant has coached at the perennial powerhouse in Eden Prairie, Minnesota over the past 18 seasons. The Eden Prairie Eagles who play in the Lake Conference in the Minnesota State High School League have enjoyed great success over this time under the direction of coach Mike Grant. Taking after his father and mentor John Gagliardi, Mike Grant knows a lot about winning big games. He has led Eden Praire to six 5A Championships and has only lost 18 games in 18 years. The almost yearly top-ranked team in Class 5A Minnesota Football have amassed an impressive regular season mark of 136-7 and have won the Lake Conference 15 times. At one point the Eden Prairie Eagles' Lake Conference winning streak was at 59 straight games.

Under Grant, the Eagles have a certain mystique about them. Playing in 14 state tournaments and seven state titles, winning six, since 1996 they are looked at as the New York Yankees of MSHSL football. The Eagles have participated in 43 section playoff games (35-5) and advanced to 14 section championship games, winning 12 times to advance to the state tournament. The Eagles have played in 30 state tournament games with an overall record of 23-7, holders of four of the past seven big-school state titles, with a total of 6 (1996, 1997, 2000, 2002, 2006, 2007) large-school state championships.

In 2006, the football team earned a No. 11 ranking in the nation following a win in the 2006 State Championship. In 2007, Sports Illustrated named Eden Prairie the top high school athletic program in Minnesota. In 2008-2009 the high school was also recognized by Sports Illustrated as one of the Top Ten Athletic Programs in the country. Bud believes his son might have done his best coaching job with last year's Eden Prairie team. "He really didn't have many (great) players, yet they were still 11-1,'' he said. "He just has a knack for getting players in the right positions. In other years, he has had dominant players but not at every position. "It's difficult to succeed at the high school level. You've got different players coming in all the time. A kid could grow five inches and gain 30 pounds from when you had him last season, and you need to figure out how to play him. I had Jim Marshall and Fran Tarkenton year after year, so I knew what I was getting.''

Mike Grant has had a lot of success with football at the high school level and a lot of fun. "The most energy I get in this job is the kids in the community that want to come to camps and play sports,'' Grant said. "I tell the kids that I might not remember your name, but please come up, introduce yourself and shake my hand. I want you to do that. When you walk through the community, you get kids saying, 'Coach Grant, coach Grant.' To be around these kids keeps me young. I feel like I'm 20 years old, but I probably look like I'm 80.'' Grant however is still fairly young at the age of 52 and with an impressive 46-4 record in these last five years Coach Grant has began thinking about the next challenge.

Grant is mentioned as a candidate to replace Gagliardi if he ever decides to step down. But Gagliardi, 82, isn't showing any signs of retiring after 56 seasons as head coach at St. John's. Grant however would like a chance to test out his Grant pedigree and coaching excellence at the college ranks. The Eagles in many ways resemble a small college team already. In the 2001-2002 school year, Eden Prairie's athletic budget was $1,460,433. It was the highest per capita of any high school in Minnesota. The Eagles' field has artificial turf, which is almost unheard of in outstate Minnesota. However

While Grant would've loved a chance to coach at his Alma Mater or have stayed home and coach the Minnesota Gophers he accepted a position with the Arkansas State Red Wolves. The university in Jonesboro, Arkansas is affiliated with the Sun Belt Conference in football and maintains NCAA Division I-A status. There Grant will be taking over for a team that finished 4-8 (4-4) in 2010 but had some good things going for them especially in the passing game where they finished ranked 31st in passing yards (254.3) per game but struggled on defense. He'll be tasked with turning the defense around while continuing to grow the offense and bring the team back to Sun Belt contention.

That or since I don't really want to make my coach 52 years old I could roleplay as one of his kids.



Will Grant pass on the coaching torch to either of his two sons, Ryan or Taylor? Time will well. Ryan certainly has the intellect. He scored a 33 on his ACT, and chose Minnesota over several Ivy League schools.

As for Taylor, a starting tight end for the Eagles who can also line up behind center and lead the team at quarterback, Grant acknowledges that he has a strong pigskin background.

“He’s one of those kids that has been around football his whole life,” Grant said.

Just like his father.

If I did Mike Grant I couldn't really make my Alma Mater :St_Johns: so... I guess I could do Ryan Grant (http://www.gophersports.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=8400&ATCLID=1430705) but he's only a Junior at :Minnesota: right? It would be cool to do a RTG as him and then have him go the coaching route right after college I guess.

Although the Grants have a long history with the school, Bud Grant went to Minnesota as well, I just don't think I want to make them my choice. There are too many better teams, recruiting stats wise, that I would like to choose. Nothing against the gophers but a lowly :2star: school, even if it is in my favorite conference, is not a good Alma Mater choice. Though I could just go with MN and decide not to coach there.

[SmoothPancakes]

So we are going to still be able to create a coach and name him and do the looks and all that right?

How many of you are just going to use your name?

I'm thinking about role playing.

Yes, yes, yes, and yes. If I'm remembering correctly from the thousands of posts that I've read over the past week.

As for name, no idea. Not really something I'm planning anything special on. I may go Smooth Pancakes. I may pull out Tom Clancy/Hunt for Red October and go with Marko Ramius. Or I may go with one of my alias names I like to use from time to time online, like Effen Pannenkoeken or Rusty Shackleford.

[Coach Kernzy]

Coach Kernzy, my players would never call my anything other than that anyway :)

[morsdraconis]

Gonna go with Jonathan Xavier for my coach's name. It's the name I've been using for coach names for the past 3 years of ODs and I will continue that tradition. Makes sense in the scope of his career since he just got fired from SAU (my TB dynasty team) for basically giving the team the 2nd ever death penalty. ;)

[JBHuskers]

I assume once rosters are done (FAIRDALE KINGS would be a good one to get), we'll start?

[Coach Kernzy]

you assume correct, we just want named rosters and then off we go and let's get this party started.
I cannot wait

[Coach Kernzy]

BTW JBHuskers don't be playing a bunch of coach mode and getting all good at it before we even have a chance to get the game LOL :)

[jmiles562000]

Man I'm ready for the season to start already!

[NavyKnight]

Hey guys, I've been thinking about my upcoming obligations in October as well as a number of other factors...and I think you should give my spot in the OD to someone on the waiting list.

The fact is that once I leave, I probably won't be able to play again for a good while longer than I had hoped.

Instead, if my availability opens up in the future and I want to play in a coach mode OD, I'll look you guys up to see if there's an open spot. I'd just rather not start, stop, then start (or not at all) again.

This way, the OD can launch with more consistency. Thanks for the opportunity - hope to join you in the future sometime.

One more thing, I'd love to be kept in the loop on what OD game settings (sliders, clock, anything that you altered from default really) that you guys decide on. This was a big reason i wanted to join in the first place - to learn more about finding realistic settings.

Thanks.

[Cipher 8]

I can respect that NavyKnight and certainly you would be welcome back when you got some free time opened up, are you sure though?

If so I do have a friend who might want to get into this but he's not much of a forum goer. I suppose I better tell him to come here and join the waiting list if he wants in.

[Coach Kernzy]

Thanks NavyKnight and thanks for letting us and me know. I'll get you on the waiting list and let us know when you are back.

[JBHuskers]

I don't know what the perception was, but there is not a Coach Mode option in OD, I just wanted to let everyone know ahead of time that. Granted we can of course still do coach mode by just snapping the ball and letting the plays go, but I double checked once I redeemed my Online Pass trial.

[Coach Kernzy]

WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Seriously..........motherf***er.........

Didn't EA say that everything carried over into all modes this year. Damn, that really puts a HUGE damper on things

[JBHuskers]

WTF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Seriously..........motherf***er.........

Didn't EA say that everything carried over into all modes this year. Damn, that really puts a HUGE damper on things

I don't think they did....I am pretty sure they said it was a Play Now option only this year. I couldn't remember 100% so I didn't post until I saw it for myself.

[Coach Kernzy]

Any chance you can bring that to their attention and see if that is something they can patch in, I can't imagine that'd be a tough thing to allow in an OD.

If not this whole deal just got a lot less exciting....... :(

[JBHuskers]

Any chance you can bring that to their attention and see if that is something they can patch in, I can't imagine that'd be a tough thing to allow in an OD.

If not this whole deal just got a lot less exciting....... :(

Too big of an undertaking for a patch unfortunately.

[Coach Kernzy]

Well my level of enthusiasm just plummeted to about a 1 from an 11.........

EA does it to the coach moders again, give us just a glimmer of hope and then snatch it away......

So what now?

[Coach Kernzy]

With that kick in the nuts (http://www.thegamingtailgate.com/forums/showthread.php?2596-TGT-Coach-Mode-OD-%28360%29&p=79981&viewfull=1#post79981)that EA gave us coach moders and that JBHuskers informed us of we are now left to figure out what to do now.

Since there is no true coach mode in OD we are left to have to use auto-pass and probably "sim/watch play" all the kicks.

This will however allow for anyone to take over the play and control players if they are so inclined to cheat in that manner. I would hope that no one here would do that but there is no way to police it so we'll all have to rely on every one else's integrity to not do this type of thing.

The other problem with this is that things such as read options, options of any kind and really any play were the QB has an option to hand off or keep will not work properly with just auto-pass on.

This is horrible news certainly for coach moders and puts a real damper on my enthusiasm for this but as coach moders like myself have come to expect, just another slight by EA.

Feel free to discuss here and let's try to figure this out the best we can.

[JBHuskers]

To be fair, I'm almost 100% certain that EA never said this was going to be in OD this year and it was limited to Play Now only for this year.

[Coach Kernzy]

See I remember the opposite, them saying that all features and everything carried over into all game modes but either way it doesn't matter, it is what it is and now we have to figure out how to best overcome it and deal with the hand we've been dealt.

[EatEmUp]

Not that it matters here for us, but I'm assuming (?) we'll have a true coach mode as an option for offline dynasties? I run one with a few friends.

Whatever. I understand your disappointment Kernzy, but I wouldn't worry too much. This is what us coach moders have always done. Remember when we begged and pleaded for a freakin' auto-pass feature? :-)

The way I've always run it offline is auto-pass on, let the QB handle the pitches in the option game (not a true triple option, or QB read option, I understand), and humans have to handle the kicks/punts/etc. (unfortunately), b/c I could never figure out the timing of "watching" a kick (for example, if it's 4th and 1 and I want to go for it, but if I sim it the computer might kick it... right?).

Whatever you guys think is best, though. I'm still looking forward to being a part of a "Coach Mode" OD.

[Cipher 8]

:bang:I'm not so sure I want to be in it still if it's not Coach Mode...

This honestly dropped my enthusiasm for the game by a lot. :fdown: I was going to potentially only play on Coach Mode and now I cannot do that.

[JBHuskers]

See I remember the opposite, them saying that all features and everything carried over into all game modes but either way it doesn't matter, it is what it is and now we have to figure out how to best overcome it and deal with the hand we've been dealt.

I took a look at my Community Day notes from January...Play Now only was written down. I just didn't remember it because it was a mode that I never messed with. The framework is in now, so by this time next year, hopefully it is in OD's.

[Cipher 8]

Not that it matters here for us, but I'm assuming (?) we'll have a true coach mode as an option for offline dynasties?

We better because I still plan on playing an dynasty with only coach mode and if i cannot even do that and it's only for Play Now games that would be stupid...

This is easily my #1 requested feature for NCAA Football 13 now. And by god I'll do whatever it takes to get them to implement it!

[Coach Kernzy]

Not that it matters here for us, but I'm assuming (?) we'll have a true coach mode as an option for offline dynasties? I run one with a few friends.
Who knows at this point, sounds to me from what JB is saying that coach mode may only be play now games which makes no sense at all EA, why on earth........?


Whatever. I understand your disappointment Kernzy, but I wouldn't worry too much. This is what us coach moders have always done. Remember when we begged and pleaded for a freakin' auto-pass feature? :-)
Yeah it is and we'll continue to get slighted I guess but so be it.


The way I've always run it offline is auto-pass on, let the QB handle the pitches in the option game (not a true triple option, or QB read option, I understand), and humans have to handle the kicks/punts/etc. (unfortunately), b/c I could never figure out the timing of "watching" a kick (for example, if it's 4th and 1 and I want to go for it, but if I sim it the computer might kick it... right?).
Yep that'll be the way we'll have to do things but I'd really like to use the sim/watch play option for the kicking games but certainly if you want to go for it on 4th then go ahead and do so.


Whatever you guys think is best, though. I'm still looking forward to being a part of a "Coach Mode" OD.
I really was to but when I saw JB's post my heart sank and I got that sick to my stomach feeling, this really sucks but we'll make due and move on.

[EatEmUp]

Yep that'll be the way we'll have to do things but I'd really like to use the sim/watch play option for the kicking games but certainly if you want to go for it on 4th then go ahead and do so.

That makes sense. If it's 4th and 1 or whatever and you're going for it, call the play. If you're not going for it, you can sim/watch that play to let the CPU kick, right? I've never tried this (shame, shame on you coach moder... I know), but that sounds simple enough? Make it a rule or whatever? Unless you watch/sim and the CPU decides you should go for it, not kick it. That ever happen?

Again, I'm good with whatever you guys decide. I'll just need to play around with it so I know how to do it.


I really was to but when I saw JB's post my heart sank and I got that sick to my stomach feeling, this really sucks but we'll make due and move on.

I understand, but chin up. I played the {bleep} out of NCAA 11 and I didn't even have a "coach box" / sideline cam (not since the old school days, eh?). Looks like we'll at least have that, a dedicated base of honest coach moders, etc. About 12 hours out from getting the game and grabbing Utah State to see what mess I've got myself into.

Keep hope alive!
:)

[Coach Kernzy]

That makes sense. If it's 4th and 1 or whatever and you're going for it, call the play. If you're not going for it, you can sim/watch that play to let the CPU kick, right?
Exactly

I've never tried this (shame, shame on you coach moder... I know), but that sounds simple enough? Make it a rule or whatever?
Yeah that'll be a rule but again there is no way to police it so we'll just have to trust everyone.

Unless you watch/sim and the CPU decides you should go for it, not kick it. That ever happen?
This does and will happen on occasion but if so we just have to live with whatever happens.

I understand, but chin up. I played the {bleep} out of NCAA 11 and I didn't even have a "coach box" / sideline cam (not since the old school days, eh?). Looks like we'll at least have that, a dedicated base of honest coach moders, etc. About 12 hours out from getting the game and grabbing Utah State to see what mess I've got myself into.

Keep hope alive!
:)
I know man, I'm still excited about the group we have here and it'll still be a blast but now the option/read plays are pretty worthless and we have to do the sim/watch play for kicks but I guess it could be worse.

[gschwendt]

Guys, not sure exactly where JB is getting his information but you definitely can play Coach Mode at least as User vs CPU. Not sure if you can play User vs User or not (haven't attempted it) but whenever you're selecting your playbook at the team matchup screen, you can choose your Controls with Regular, 1-Button, and Coach as the styles of choice.

[Coach Kernzy]

Guys, not sure exactly where JB is getting his information but you definitely can play Coach Mode at least as User vs CPU. Not sure if you can play User vs User or not (haven't attempted it) but whenever you're selecting your playbook at the team matchup screen, you can choose your Controls with Regular, 1-Button, and Coach as the styles of choice.
You can do that in OD?
We know you can do that in Play Now games but we are only concerned with being able to select coach mode in our OD here?

[gschwendt]

You can do that in OD?
We know you can do that in Play Now games but we are only concerned with being able to select coach mode in our OD here?
Yes. I have an OD created that I was testing other things and went in there to be certain... I'm sitting at the team select screen now for my opening game of the season and it's an option there.

[Coach Kernzy]

AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Hey JB, can you please doublecheck on your end or get together with gschwendt and get double confirmation on this? :)

[JBHuskers]

Guys, not sure exactly where JB is getting his information but you definitely can play Coach Mode at least as User vs CPU. Not sure if you can play User vs User or not (haven't attempted it) but whenever you're selecting your playbook at the team matchup screen, you can choose your Controls with Regular, 1-Button, and Coach as the styles of choice.

I had that written down from the past...on it being a Play Now only option.

The OD setup has nothing for the commish to mandate a coach mode.

I didn't get into the full creation of an OD last night....so putting two and two together...that's why I thought it wasn't possible.

Still have to have an honor system for choosing coach mode....but if this is true it is better news.

[Coach Kernzy]

OK well I'm good with that, if it's an option we can still select at the beginning of the game I'll take that. Yeah it'll still be on the honor system that you select coach mode before your game but if that is indeed true I'm right back to an 11 with enthusiasm.
Don't need that in the OD setup, before the game will be just fine.
YES, can we please get a double confirmation on this though?

[JBHuskers]

I had that written down from the past...on it being a Play Now only option.



Again, I never did coach mode, so that was the only thing I had regarding it in my notes....so things could have changed.

Looks like we'll have to test in an OD a user v. user Coach Mode option....

Tommy, I'm enabling my Online Pass tonight, wanna test it out with a quick OD setup?

[JBHuskers]

OK well I'm good with that, if it's an option we can still select at the beginning of the game I'll take that. Yeah it'll still be on the honor system that you select coach mode before your game but if that is indeed true I'm right back to an 11 with enthusiasm.
Don't need that in the OD setup, before the game will be just fine.
YES, can we please get a double confirmation on this though?

Yeah sorry to scare you, based on what I wrote down and based on the OD setup, I didn't think it was possible...I'll check with Tommy to possibly test this tonight.

[Coach Kernzy]

I was :sick: and now I'm super :))
Keep us posted on that double confirmation.

[gschwendt]

Yeah... I've got an OD created. Just invited you, choose Illinois as your team (since I'm already ASU).

[JBHuskers]

Yeah... I've got an OD created. Just invited you, choose Illinois as your team (since I'm already ASU).

Gotta run to Target to get a couple things after work, I'd say 5:15 or 5:30.

[Cipher 8]

Wait... so if Coach Mode is still in Online Dynasty, which I am officially confused now, then I want my spot back. I can honor the honor system.

[Coach Kernzy]

I've already given the spot away Cipher 8, you jumped ship on us so quickly it seemed this wasn't very important to you.
I'll get you back on the waiting list if you'd like and the next open spot would be yours.

[Cipher 8]

That's bullshit. It has been a little over a hour (10:30 AM) when I jumped ship because I didn't want to get in a non coach mode dynasty. Come on Coach Kernzy I've posted in this more than anybody since joining. Don't tell me it wasn't important to me! Bullshit! I know you want your good friend in but this is bullshit. I was in first... and JB made it sound like this was impossible to do.

Now I can't have MY spot back that was mine an hour ago? Your just saying that because it's your good friend and you want him in more than me. Don't screw me over like that. You know very damn well I would've never have left if JB never gave us misinformation and made it seem like Coach Mode was impossible in OD.

[Coach Kernzy]

That's bullshit. It has been a little over a hour (10:30 AM) when I jumped ship because I didn't want to get in a non coach mode dynasty. Come on Coach Kernzy I've posted in this more than anybody since joining. Don't tell me it wasn't important to me! Bullshit! I know you want your good friend in but this is bullshit. I was in first... and JB made it sound like this was impossible to do.

Bullshit... your just saying that because it's your good friend and you want him in more than me.

It very simply has to do with having mature, committed players here and with you leaving so quickly and then making that post you've proven to be neither of those.

[Cipher 8]

It very simply has to do with having mature, committed players here and with you leaving so quickly and then making that post you've proven to be neither of those.Wow seriously? I care very much for this league otherwise I wouldn't have spent all my time this past week sitting on these forums and posting hundreds of times in this leagues threads!

Now you are just looking for a reason to make it so I can't get my spot back by saying I'm not mature because I left quickly and made a angry post? What would you do if you just got jipped and swindled out of your spot?

Seriously? If it had been JBHuskers that said yeah i don't want to do it with no coach mode then when he found out it was still in I guarantee you would've allowed his spot back. Or morsdraconis or anybody else. You have something against me I think.

I don't know what it is but I'm sorry if I'm a little upset that I basically got tricked out of a spot BECAUSE I THOUGHT A COACH MODE ONLINE DYNASTY WASN'T POSSIBLE! I know you want your friend in but that's a little unfair to say nope you can't have your spot back and then to have the audacity to call me out and say I wasn't a committed user to the league?

[Coach Kernzy]

The difference between yourself and those other guys you mentioned is that they wouldn't have reacted the way you did.

As a matter of fact Gnarlymutt let me know that he would have been happy to wait because of his maturity and let you have your spot back but because of your very immature post and your quick jumping ship we've moved on.

I am still more than happy to put you on the waiting list and give you another shot if the opportunity should arise.

[Cipher 8]

My quick jump ship is not because I wasn't committed like you are trying to make it sound. It's because I was tricked into thinking coach mode, as I know it not that auto pass version, was not in Online Dynasty this year. That's why I left. I LEFT QUICKLY AS A BENEFIT TO YOU SO YOU COULD FIND ANOTHER USER BEFORE THE LEAGUE STARTED, would you rather have had me stay in til week 5 and then decide I didn't want to play with auto pass version of coach mode and leave? No I was being respectful to you.

I'm sorry if I hurt your feelings by saying bullshit. It made me angry though because you told me I couldn't have my spot back because you already gave it away to YOUR friend. That's the only reason and I know it. Anybody else would've called you out for bullshit just the same if they cared as much as I do about having a spot in the ONLY coach mode online dynasty there is with likeminded users who are not cheesers.

I'm sorry if I care about this league more than I probably should but I don't think it should just be up to you on this decision. Sure you came up with the idea but the rest of the members have a say in if I should get my spot back or not. Just think what if it had happened to you?

[gschwendt]

Cipher, it's Coach Kernzy's decision since he is the commissioner. I recommend to just move on at this point and make a decision whether to join the waitlist or not. End of discussion.

[Coach Kernzy]

Fair enough, I'll have others chime in on this situation and get their thoughts on your spot.

Everyone involved in this league please read all of the above and give your thoughts regarding all this.

[Cipher 8]

The way I see it is

JBHuskers said: You can't do Coach Mode in Online Dynasty
Coach K: Well that sucks, I guess we could just do it like this, Auto Pass & Simulate plays like in years past.
Cipher 8: Well if it's not Coach Mode then I'll get out and let Coach K's friend join since I don't like the Auto Pass and Simulation, I thought it was "Coach Mode"/

1 hour passes...

gschwendt: JB is wrong, Coach Mode is in Online Dynasty
Cipher 8: If it's back to normal I want my spot back
Coach K: Nope Already gave it away to my friend

Cipher 8 gets upset he was tricked into thinking Coach Mode isn't in Online Dynasty this year but then finds out it is...

Coach K: Your not committed to us because you left so quickly
Cipher 8: No I left because I thought it wasn't coach mode and have no interest in just auto pass, I like broadcast view coach mode like i thought it. I'm committed just look at any of my posts in these threads and how much thought and time I've put into them. They are long. I only left quickly so you could have your friend join.
Coach K: Well I don't like you and I said no, so no.



Cipher, it's Coach Kernzy's decision since he is the commissioner. I recommend to just move on at this point and make a decision whether to join the waitlist or not. End of discussion.I'm not going to give up that easily, if you want to ban me like they do over at operation sports, for petty little discussions then fine but I thought TGT was better than that and I think I'm a valuable poster here. I'm just upset I can't have my spot because I was tricked into thinking this style of Online Dynasty wasn't available in NCAA 12.

[Coach Kernzy]

The way I see it is

JB said: You can't do Coach Mode in Online Dynasty
Coach K: Well that sucks, I guess we could just do it like this, Auto Pass & Simulate plays like in years past.
Cipher 8: Well if it's not Coach Mode then I'll get out and let Coach K's friend join since I don't like the Auto Pass and Simulation, I thought it was "Coach Mode"/

1 hour passes

gschwendt: JB is wrong, Coach Mode is in Online Dynasty
Cipher 8: If it's back to normal I want my spot back
Coach K: Nope Already gave it away to my friend

Cipher 8 gets upset he was tricked into thinking Coach Mode isn't in Online Dynasty this year but then finds out it is...

Coach K: Your not committed to us because you left so quickly
Cipher 8: No I left because I thought it wasn't coach mode and have no interest in just auto pass, I like broadcast view coach mode like i thought it was thats why I originally left and I left quickly so you could have your friend join.
Coach K: Well I don't like you and I said no, so no.

I'm not going to give up that easily, if you want to ban me like they do over at operation sports, for petty little discussions then fine but I thought TGT was better than that and I think I'm a valuable poster here. I'm just upset I can't have my spot because I was tricked into thinking this style of Online Dynasty wasn't available in NCAA 12.

You are again proving my point of immaturity with this post but I will let others here chime in.

[Cipher 8]

You are again proving my point of immaturity with this post but I will let others here chime in.
How? I'm sorry I got upset and swore but I don't think I called anybody any names it was just how mad I was at the situation. Now I'm trying to explain my thought process as to why I decided to leave and then what happened when I wanted back in when I found out that Coach Mode was in Online Dynasty after all. How is that being immature? I've pm'ed you so we can talk this out man to man. That way there's no reason to lie and hold back anything.

Lets talk.

[Coach Kernzy]

I'm done responding to this. If others want to chime in I'd love to hear their thoughts.

[JBHuskers]

In my honest opinion, based off the PM that you (Cipher) sent to AustinWolv, HawkFan, morsdraconis, SmoothPancakes, and myself...I agree with Coach Kernzy the rest of us most likely were going to stick around doing Coach Mode the old way. You weren't tricked. It was based off of what I saw in the OD set up screen. Things happen, but I was going to wait it out and give it a try anyways.

[HawkFan]

Yeah I agree with Coach K and JB, wow man calm down and don't jump to the first reaction on everything. And then the PM you sent me just pushed me over the edge of saying I am with Coack K in not giving you your spot back. I'm even of the mindset to say don't even put you on the waitlist.

[Cipher 8]

Okay I still think this situation is not being handled very well right now but I can't say I expected anything different.

I guess nobody here liked me from the get go... All my ideas were shot down in the old thread about :2star: coodrinators and everybody basically told me this league wasn't for me.

Then I sucked it up and joined picked a :1star: school and showed I was committed with all my posts. I spend a lot time and thought on my posts, I would even say more so than anybody else in this league but I don't want to sound arrogant, yet still nobody thinks I'm good for this league.

I don't know how you all get the impression that I wasn't committed.

Go through the threads on this league sub-forum and you will see I am the most active member in the league and I put a lot of thought and time into my posts. My write up preview for offense defense, my schedule predictions, and all my other ideas I had and shared for this league. None of that shows I was committed?

I just wish you could see that I got upset at the situation and in my mind that is understandable. I'm sorry I swore but I'm really upset how I got tricked into thinking coach mode and our online dynasty wasn't going to be able to happen in NCAA Football 12, decided to leave now rather than half way through season one, and then come to find out a hour later it is in this years game but I'm out.

I would've never had left in the first place if I had not been tricked into thinking it wasn't possible. I would've honored the honor system and only use coach mode controls because to be honest I suck as a user control and I might not even play any games this year in that normal way if I can do it all in coach mode instead. I love recruiting and team management not the gameplay of NCAA.

I honestly thought the TGT users and Admins were better than this... I thought this was the best site but based off how I was treated I guess I'm wrong. It's just the same elitist attitude as most these sports sites.

[Cipher 8]

I WOULD'VE NEVER HAD LEFT HAD I NOT BEEN LIED TO AND TRICKED INTO THINKING COACH MODE WASN'T IN ONLINE DYNASTY THIS YEAR.

Sure I may not have handled Coach K telling me he had filled my spot the best way. I swore so what but I didn't call him names.

I was upset at the "situation" and how it was handled. One hour I was the most committed and active member the next I was being told I was immature, non committed, and not allowed to have my spot.

I guess that would upset any normal person that really cared for a league. You may all think I'm taking it too far, it's just a game, calm down but I take it serious. I don't just go out drinking and other normal stuff young guys do and think games are toys and kiddy fair. Games are serious to me, more than just a hobby, and this league was going to be my main one.

I guess I'll have to make my own but I doubt anybody else here will want to get in a Coach Mode Dynasty. Enjoy your league, I wish I was still in it and I don't think you handled this right at all, you should have been lenient and understanding of the situation instead you all think of me as trash and kicked me to the curb.

[AustinWolv]

Wow, went to the gym at lunch and come back to this?

Cipher, stop with the victim mentality. Nobody lied to you, JB didn't lie to you. It was a mistake. That whole thing is more annoying and whiny than anything else, because otherwise I somewhat see your point. Why? Because I was a little letdown about the news of no coach mode either and was half-wondering if I really wanted to bother with a hacked-up solution in order to have the coach mode league, since I'm basically new to coach mode play.
HOWEVER, I decided to just stay quiet and give it a shot, but now that the news is back that coach mode is in, all is good.

So yes, I see your point that it feels unfair that you got replaced that quickly and I can see WHY you decided to drop out, but I also see Kernzy's point in that he HAS to be a hardass as commissioner because if he isn't, then ODs WILL fail and not continue on. Commishes have to badger people and keep things moving, that is the ONLY way any online league survives.

When it comes down to it, it was a mistake. Nobody is hating on you or 'against' you. Did you get the short end of the mistake stick? Yeah, I think so and would have been ok with you getting the spot back, but your spazz out really put a dent in that.

[Coach Kernzy]

Sorry about all that mess guys. I hope we can all move on now. As soon as Fairdale King's named rosters are out we'll get started.

[Cipher 8]

I somewhat see your point. Why? Because I was a little letdown about the news of no coach mode either and was half-wondering if I really wanted to bother with a hacked-up solution in order to have the coach mode league, since I'm basically new to coach mode play.
HOWEVER, I decided to just stay quiet and give it a shot, but now that the news is back that coach mode is in, all is good.

So yes, I see your point that it feels unfair that you got replaced that quickly and I can see WHY you decided to drop out, but I also see Kernzy's point in that he HAS to be a hardass as commissioner because if he isn't, then ODs WILL fail and not continue on. Commishes have to badger people and keep things moving, that is the ONLY way any online league survives.

When it comes down to it, it was a mistake. Nobody is hating on you or 'against' you. Did you get the short end of the mistake stick? Yeah, I think so and would have been ok with you getting the spot back, but your spazz out really put a dent in that.

Okay I spazzed out because I was upset about the situation and how it was being handled, you said yourself you had the same thoughts of leaving as me the only difference is I acted upon them in a timely manner so as Coach K's friend could join because I thought it was only going to be Auto Pass "hacked-up solution" and not Coach Mode.

But is overreacting in a couple angry posts reason enough that I don't deserve my spot when I was under the wrong impression (not lied to, sorry JB)?

I was committed. I would've honored the honor system and used only Coach Mode controls. I was active in the league, just look anywhere in these threads, every one of my posts is long winded and thought out. I put a lot of time and thought into this league. Look at the rules explanation, that's all from me. I wrote that. Not Coach K... Sure I wrote it for the league to use and for him to post but that just shows how committed to being in this dynasty I was. I really wanted to be in it. I still do...

but it seems Coach K and a few others never wanted me in in the first place and now are taking their opportunity to just throw me out...

[AustinWolv]

It was the wrong response, period.

[Gnarlymutt]

First off, I offer up my apologies that my earliest intro to everyone here (other than Coach Kernzy) is wrapped up in this situation.

As Coach K mentioned Cipher, upon the realization that things were likely fine with coach mode in OD's, I offered to go back to the waiting list if someone wanted their spot back. I obviously wasn't out to steal anyone's spot. Rather, I know spots in online leagues of this sort get filled fast. Knowing how much time and effort Coach K puts in to things like this, I was not going to let the chance pass me by to be involved with the league. From this point of view, even I understand how you feel and would normally be supportive.

However, as all too often it happens, the anonymity that the Interwebs provides tends to cause even the best of folks to shoot themselves in the foot.

Via private message: Enjoy my spot
I'm glad your friend just had to give you my spot in the league I was the most active and committed member of... Really mature of him and you. Yet I'm not the mature one.

Ironic that you're the one taking to private messages to complain about the sour grapes, and sling accusations of immaturity my direction. Well played good sir!

The Mutt
Kent State Golden Flashes

[Cipher 8]

It was the wrong response, period.So a wrong response warrants me losing my spot? Even when considering I was one of the most active and committed members?

I don't disagree that I came about it the right way but being angry about the situation and how it was being handled makes you say things differently than you would when thinking level headily...

I just think it's all been handled with no compassion or leniency in mind. No understanding at all for my side of it. I already apologized to Coach K for the 'bullshit' post. He can tell you as much...

[Cipher 8]

As Coach K mentioned Cipher, upon the realization that things were likely fine with coach mode in OD's, I offered to go back to the waiting list if someone wanted their spot back.

Where? Where was this ever mentioned.

You did no such thing and Coach K from the moment I asked for my spot back said No. Then he backtracked and said well you had offered to go to waiting list but after I left so quickly he decided I wasn't going to be let back in.

[Coach Kernzy]

Cipher 8, we have all moved on and I think you should do the same.
Good luck to your sir.

[Coach Kernzy]

I would respectfully request that no one else in this OD comment on this as it's a closed issue that needs no more discussion.

Feel free to post all you want Cipher 8 but we as an OD are done with this and are moving forward.

[Cipher 8]

However, as all too often it happens, the anonymity that the Interwebs provides tends to cause even the best of folks to shoot themselves in the foot.

Via private message: Enjoy my spot
I'm glad your friend just had to give you my spot in the league I was the most active and committed member of... Really mature of him and you. Yet I'm not the mature one.

Ironic that you're the one taking to private messages to complain about the sour grapes, and sling accusations of immaturity my direction. Well played good sir!

And as for sharing Private Messages that show nothing... good job. I'm glad you think sharing "Private" messages to try to get people on your side is a good decision because it just shows what kind of person you are. They are meant to be private between you and the sender not shared. Plus what did I say wrong in that. I was just letting you know I don't appreciate you and your friend writing me off and not hearing my side of it. Coach K basically said no your not coming back in because i want my friend in from the moment i had asked for my spot back. I don't appreciate you taking my spot so I sent you the message when Coach K stopped talking to me.

[Cipher 8]

Cipher 8, we have all moved on and I think you should do the same.
Good luck to your sir.

That's what you want me to do... you don't want me in your league and never did. I don't want to move on I want my spot back but it appears I have no choice in the matter. Whatever... just know you are in the wrong and IMO you are a bad commish for how you handled this. I hope others see you for who you truly are.

[JBHuskers]

I honestly thought the TGT users and Admins were better than this... I thought this was the best site but based off how I was treated I guess I'm wrong. It's just the same elitist attitude as most these sports sites.

Well this post alone has changed my mind from allowing you to be on the waitlist to not being on the waitlist at all.

A) this isn't the TGT's league, this isn't an admins league, this is a league that Coach Kernzy is the commish of
B) calling out the mods for thinking they should be "better" than this, you will have a few hundred people who will argue about how this site is run

[Coach Kernzy]

Cipher 8 is no longer a part of this OD and will not be.
Again we have all moved on here and I would expect him to do the same.

[JBHuskers]

Back on topic.....too bad Nebraska changed confernces based on these alma maters :nod:

[JBHuskers]

Cipher 8 is no longer a part of this OD and will not be.
Again we have all moved on here and I would expect him to do the same.

Yeah I didn't see your post til after I posted it...I was reading in order from what I missed, and yeah I had to address that comment and set it straight.

[Coach Kernzy]

Completely understand JB, I didn't figure that would go without a response.

Regarding Nebraska now in the B10, yeah that would have been fun if we ended up having three of us in the B12. Regardless I'm sure we'll all see a lot of each other at different stops along the way.

[morsdraconis]

Ok, so I understand what's going on (without the Ciper8 stuff) Coach Mode is available, but is an option that you have to choice when selecting your playbook and stuff before the game right?

[Coach Kernzy]

That is correct, it's not an option I can set up during creation of the OD, it's something we have to select each time when you select the playbook and uniforms and what not.

[Gnarlymutt]

Back on topic.....too bad Nebraska changed confernces based on these alma maters :nod:

Color me as one who's happy the Huskers are gone.... ;-)

[HawkFan]

Ok, so I understand what's going on (without the Ciper8 stuff) Coach Mode is available, but is an option that you have to choice when selecting your playbook and stuff before the game right?

This is my understanding as well, is this correct?

[HawkFan]

That is correct, it's not an option I can set up during creation of the OD, it's something we have to select each time when you select the playbook and uniforms and what not.

Okay then we are strictly honor system, I doubt we have anything to worry about in that respect.

[JBHuskers]

Color me as one who's happy the Huskers are gone.... ;-)

Go back to your bottle of wine! :P :D

[Coach Kernzy]

Correct it is something that we'll all have to select prior to our games but we have a great group here so I really doubt its anything we have to worry about.

[JBHuskers]

Ok, so I understand what's going on (without the Ciper8 stuff) Coach Mode is available, but is an option that you have to choice when selecting your playbook and stuff before the game right?

Tommy and I are going to test it out tonight for a user v. user game. Still an honor system is in place for chosing Coach Mode at the playbook select screen.

[Underdog]

Soooooo.....Picking whether to be a HC OC or DC is out the window now? No Biggie...I am just a little confused. Will we still be able to choose our alma mater and get offered other jobs?

[HawkFan]

Soooooo.....Picking whether to be a HC OC or DC is out the window now? No Biggie...I am just a little confused. Will we still be able to choose our alma mater and get offered other jobs?

All of that is still in play, and it will work as any online dynasty will, except at the matchup screen we are going to have to choose coach mode as our setting for each game.

[Underdog]

We can only hope that the honor system will work. The first time someone pulls off a major upset eyebrows will raise. effin EA.

[Coach Kernzy]

I really think with the group we have here we won't have any problem with the honor system. We are all adults and there is really no reason for us to cheat I wouldn't think.

[Underdog]

Maybe you are right. Just had bad experiences with "kids" in other leagues. Still excited about this league and have been waiting for this type of league for the past few years. I got so tired of the unrealstic gameplay and stats for online dynasties that I didnt even join one last year.

[Coach Kernzy]

That's what is great about coach mode, very few kids want to play the thinking man's game that is coach mode, they all want to be thumb jockeys and fast on the sticks and all that stuff (says the old man) LOL :)

[HawkFan]

Yeah I would doubt we have a lot of people that fall into the kid category, heck I am a 34 year old father of two, with a wife, 65 hour a week job, a wife, and a mortgage. I'm definitely not going to be cheating on a video game anytime soon, too much effort and don't need the drama. lol

[Gnarlymutt]

I'd like to point out that as someone playing coach mode for the last several years almost exclusively, I couldn't even begin to thumb jockey it. My teams performance would be worse... >.>

[HawkFan]

While my team would play better I have no doubt there is no way I would ever consider not playing coach mode in this dynasty. The way Coach K has talked about it and the passion he talks about it with intrigues me a lot. Plus I love the X and O side of football and I would love the chance to test my X and O knowledge not only against the CPU but against you guys as well. This is bringing a whole new challenge to this game for me and I for one welcome it with open arms.

[morsdraconis]

Yeah I would doubt we have a lot of people that fall into the kid category, heck I am a 34 year old father of two, with a wife, 65 hour a week job, a wife, and a mortgage. I'm definitely not going to be cheating on a video game anytime soon, too much effort and don't need the drama. lol

Damn, his wife is so bad, he mentions her TWICE. ;)

Yeah, I'm probably one of the youngest guys here (27) so I definitely don't think we have much to worry about when it comes to that. I just hope we can do more than do auto pass for coach mode in User vs User games.

[HawkFan]

Damn, his wife is so bad, he mentions her TWICE. ;)

Yeah, I'm probably one of the youngest guys here (27) so I definitely don't think we have much to worry about when it comes to that. I just hope we can do more than do auto pass for coach mode in User vs User games.

Well considering she never reads this site I am sure I am okay. Hahaha! Well maybe I should go back and edit that part.:D

Or maybe I have two wives? Hell no, one is enough I couldn't even begin to cope with two. :smh:

[JBHuskers]

Okay guys user v. user games will have to be old school coach mode....cpu games we're good, you just have to chose it every game on the playbook screen.

[HawkFan]

Okay guys user v. user games will have to be old school coach mode....cpu games we're good, you just have to chose it every game on the playbook screen.

Alright then, that's settled. Someone talk to me about how old school coach mode works.

[JBHuskers]

Alright then, that's settled. Someone talk to me about how old school coach mode works.

From what I gather, the only work you have to do is kicking.

[morsdraconis]

Which REALLY sucks cause kicking in this game is retarded easy. Maybe we can sim them or something (don't think that's possible in User vs User games though).

[SmoothPancakes]

I really think with the group we have here we won't have any problem with the honor system. We are all adults and there is really no reason for us to cheat I wouldn't think.


Maybe you are right. Just had bad experiences with "kids" in other leagues. Still excited about this league and have been waiting for this type of league for the past few years. I got so tired of the unrealstic gameplay and stats for online dynasties that I didnt even join one last year.


That's what is great about coach mode, very few kids want to play the thinking man's game that is coach mode, they all want to be thumb jockeys and fast on the sticks and all that stuff (says the old man) LOL :)


Yeah I would doubt we have a lot of people that fall into the kid category, heck I am a 34 year old father of two, with a wife, 65 hour a week job, a wife, and a mortgage. I'm definitely not going to be cheating on a video game anytime soon, too much effort and don't need the drama. lol


Damn, his wife is so bad, he mentions her TWICE. ;)

Yeah, I'm probably one of the youngest guys here (27) so I definitely don't think we have much to worry about when it comes to that. I just hope we can do more than do auto pass for coach mode in User vs User games.

Yeah, I would think we are definitely good on the honor system. Like mors, I'm probably one of the youngest, if not THE youngest, guys in this thing, at only 24 years old. And I wouldn't waste a single second calling someone out as a cheater and a liar if the numbers weren't adding up when it comes to their games and the stats, making it obvious that they were actually playing the games. Anyone that is that low that they have to cheat like that is pathetic and I would hope would actually have half a brain to get their ass out of this OD if they were already in it.

[SmoothPancakes]

Which REALLY sucks cause kicking in this game is retarded easy. Maybe we can sim them or something (don't think that's possible in User vs User games though).

We can still change the sliders and what not, right? Once we all get our hands on the game tomorrow (UPS better get their butts here at 1 or 2pm like they occasionally stop by instead of their usual 4 or 5pm or I'm gonna be upset, lol), we can all work on where we find kicking to be the best at slider-wise, and then have Coach Kernzy set the kicking sliders for the OD to that level, so kicking would then be a challenge for us, but also not be automatic misses or automatic makes.

[morsdraconis]

Well, :sf: seems to have a good setup with his sliders. I'd recommend trying them out in Coach Mode to see how they fair. He's been getting some pretty damn good results from what I've seen.

[Archedemius]

Let me get this straight then.... Every game you have to select Coach mode? What about OC and DC? Are those out or can you select those options too if you were hired as one? And old school mode for user vs. user?

[Coach Kernzy]

We'll just have to check some of this out once we get it guys to know sure, makes no sense to me that there isn't a coach mode for user vs user games but we'll make due.
We can always "sim/watch play" the kicks to keep us from having to manually kick.
Going to bed now and by this time tomorrow I will have all the info I need to get this all figured out. Stay tuned.

[JBHuskers]

Okay, every game vs. the cpu, you have to select "Coach Mode" under controls. The devs couldn't get user vs. user working right in time to finalize, in a user vs. user game it will be just like a regular game, but you don't just let the offense and defense play....the only manual thing you'll have to do is kick. There isn't a sim or watch play in a user vs. user game.

[HawkFan]

One neat little thing I have noticed on the injury screen. It now shows you the rating of the player who is injured and his back up when asking if you want to rest or play him. And it also tells you what type of reinjury risk your running by playing him as opposed to resting him. Example, just had a wideout with bruised ribs that the re-injury risk way high.

[Archedemius]

Got the game at midnight last night at midnight since my dumb-arse didn't pre-order. Will be checking things out today. With old school coaching how did you keep from using the qb again?

[Archedemius]

Turn on auto pass right? No one get discouraged! This will still be fun! Maybe EA will fix it also.

[Coach Kernzy]

We will only have to use auto-pass (old school coach mode) when we play a user vs user game apparently. Any other time you can select coach mode as your play type I believe.

[Gnarlymutt]

Coach K, remind me... With auto pass on, will our QB make "proper reads" on read plays and triple options and such? I vaguely remember back in 09 and 10 that we had to actually choose to hand the ball off manually on those plays... Skipping 2k11 kinda sucks for preparing for this. :-)

[Coach Kernzy]

I do not believe the QB will make the proper reads on options and read plays so it might be beneficial to everyone to maybe not call those types of plays in user vs user games that we have to use auto-pass, during user vs CPU games where we can use the actual true coach mode we should be fine.

[SmoothPancakes]

Got the game and am in the main menus right now. Those bastards at UPS were kind to me today and put my house on the 1-2pm delivery route instead of the almost constantly usual 4-5pm delivery route, so I got the game at 1:30 instead of almost 5. I love it when UPS is nice to me like that. :D

About to fire up a coach mode game to get a feel for the sliders that steelerfan made and is still working on. Then into custom playbook, and then into... something. :D

[SmoothPancakes]

Son of a... :fp: Very first play of the entire game, the opening kickoff, I'm kicking, Army's receiving, and we get flagged for facemask. Time to break out the whooping stick on these guys. Nobody is committing a penalty on my team(s)!

[SmoothPancakes]

WOOOO!!!! Just had my first coach mode sack! This is a very tight game so far. Army drove down on me in their first possession before I stopped and held them to a field goal. I went three and out. I just forced Army three and out thanks to that huge sack on 3rd down. And just now got my first first down thanks to a halfback trap on my second possession. Over halfway through the 1st quarter, and it's a 3-0 dogfight.

Edit - Well, Army ended up forcing me to eventually go three and out, but thanks to a holding penalty on their first play on offense, I had Army pinned back with a 1st down on their own 10 yard line. They never got anything going, going quickly three and out and punting the ball back to me at midfield. Some HUGE runs by my fullback and a great pass on 3rd and 9 from the 22 yard line to get down to the 1 yard line, and we punched it in for the touchdown as time expired in the 1st quarter.

End of the 1st quarter - Navy 7, Army 3.

[Gnarlymutt]

Loving the live updates. Keep em coming for those of us at work. :-)

[AustinWolv]

Smooth, does the mode appear to be playing well? Good fun?

[SmoothPancakes]

Loving the live updates. Keep em coming for those of us at work. :-)

Happy to. :)

Just hit halftime. The 2nd quarter was a PURE defensive battle. Neither team could get a single thing going. It was three and out after three and out. I got the ball back with a 1:30 left and the ball on my 20 after the punt went into the endzone for a touchback. I managed to pass my way down the field to the Army 45 (a very difficult challenge as Navy isn't the greatest when it comes to passing) and was in position to at least come away with a field goal, before two consecutive sacks on 2nd and 3rd down ruined any chance I had, as I was out of time outs with under 5 seconds to play. :fp:

So at halftime, the score remains, Navy 7, Army 3. This truly could come down to whoever scores the next touchdown (if anyone manages to find the endzone again), will be the team to win the game. This is a major defensive struggle.

[SmoothPancakes]

No!!! I received the kickoff to start the 3rd. First offensive play, my stupid FB fumbles the ball on our own 31 yard line. :fp: :bang::bang::bang::bang::bang:

[JBHuskers]

We will only have to use auto-pass (old school coach mode) when we play a user vs user game apparently. Any other time you can select coach mode as your play type I believe.

Correct.

[SmoothPancakes]

Smooth, does the mode appear to be playing well? Good fun?

Oh, I can't remember the last time I had this much fun. I was always a thumb jockey kind of guy, so this is my first true coach mode experience (I never even did a simulated coach mode with auto pass in past games), and I can now say for an absolute fact, I am doing at least one personal dynasty with pure coach mode. The players are playing well, they're playing to their ratings. I can still pass (even with Navy's QB) but no pass is an absolute. I have had quite a few plays were I was left shaking my head at my QB because of a boneheaded pass he made. However, that's great. Because while he's rated 83 for throw power, his throw accuracy is only 77, so his throws shouldn't be on the money. He should have his fair share of errant throws, and he has.

Running game is no guarantee. It really comes down to the blocking and the defense. I have seen my FB break off runs for over 20 yards (I'm proud to say my very first NCAA 12 achievement was in a coach mode game. :) ) and I've seen him only get 1 or 2 yards. I've even seen him get tackled for a loss of anywhere from 1 yard, to almost 10 yards on an option pitch.

Sacks are going to happen. I have sacked Army's QB twice, and I've been sacked twice. I've had a facemask and holding penalty called on me. Army's had two holding penalties called on them. The QBs will scramble. I have had Army's QB scramble on me multiple times and it's bitten me in the butt because I had everyone but my front four dropped back into coverage, so it was an easy 5-10 yards at least for him.

The option game, I'm not sure about. I have tried to run option plays a couple times now, and every time, it's been blown up in the backfield for a 3-7 yard loss. However, on the flip side, Army is abusing me with the option game. So I'm undecided on how good or bad the option is going to be.

And there will be offensive shootouts and defensive battles. Right now, I'm in a defensive battle. At halftime, it's 7-3. Navy has 91 yards of total offense. Army has 92 yards of total offense. Navy is 5-11 passing with 55 passing yards, and 36 rushing yards on 19 carries. Army is 4-9 passing with 36 passing yards, and 56 rushing yards on 20 carries. Navy has 24 punt return yards and 45 kick return yards, while Army has 8 punt return yards and 51 kick return yards.

Army has punted 5 times, with a 43.4 average. Navy has punted 4 times with a 37.8 average. Army has 3 penalties for 25 yards, Navy 2 penalties for 20 yards. Navy current time of possession is 9:56, Army's is 9:19 (those numbers taken with 7:45 left to play in the 3rd quarter).

So in my honest assessment, I cannot wait for this dynasty to start up! I am going to have a blast with coach mode and coach mode alone could keep me playing this game for the entire next year until NCAA 13 arrives.

[Coach Kernzy]

I'm home with game in hand, unwrapping it and popping it in shortly.

Great stuff Smooth, I'll try to get some live updates as well pretty soon.

[Coach Kernzy]

Installing to hard drive now and then getting the day 1 update and then away I go to a play now coach mode game with the Kent St Golden Flashes at the Western Michigan Broncos. 27% installed, won't be long now :)

[SmoothPancakes]

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! After that disastrous fumble, I was able to keep Army stuck in the mud (thanks to a false start penalty) at the 31 yard line, including my secondary knocking down a heave into the endzone that would have been a touchdown if not for my safety. Army tried for the field goal, and it came up way short. It wasn't even halfway through the endzone and it had already dropped lower than the crossbar. So with 5:35 left to play in the 3rd, I have the ball back in my hands, and I am still clinging to my 7-3 lead.

Edit - And facing a 3rd and 8, I chose to go to the air, nothing opened up, so my QB decided to make some magic with his legs and scrambled his way to a first down, keeping my drive alive!

[SmoothPancakes]

Installing to hard drive now and then getting the day 1 update and then away I go to a play now coach mode game with the Kent St Golden Flashes at the Western Michigan Broncos. 27% installed, won't be long now :)

Yeah, I need to get a coach mode game fired up with Florida International later on when I get a chance. I need to figure out just what I have to work with here. :D

[SmoothPancakes]

Navy touchdown!!! After managing to shut Army down on defense after this almost costly fumble, Navy manages to drive down the field thanks to the legs of their FB, the scrambling legs of their QB, and a timely 22 yard pass to one of the WRs, that set up for a 4 yard touchdown rush by the FB, his second rushing touchdown of the day.

With that, Navy breaks open this defensive battle to claim a 14-3 lead with 3:07 left to play in the 3rd quarter.

[AustinWolv]

so my QB decided to make some magic with his legs and scrambled his way to a first down
That is good news that the CPU did that.


Yeah, I need to get a coach mode game fired up with Florida International later on when I get a chance. I need to figure out just what I have to work with here.
Me too! Looking forward to seeiing what to do with my team!

[SmoothPancakes]

That is good news that the CPU did that.

I agree! And in fact, I just saved two highlights from this game, one of that scramble by my QB, and one of a 10 yard scramble by the Army QB. Lets you see the QBs in action, as well as see the beauty of NO suction tackles that would have killed those scrambles in previous years.


Me too! Looking forward to seeiing what to do with my team!

Yep, this is going to be fun. I have no experience ever with FIU, so this is new for me.

And on a gameplay related note... :fp: Army drove right down the field on my to score a touchdown of their own, thanks in part to a massive 41 yard rush by their HB. With 1:30 left to play in the 3rd quarter, it's now Navy 14, Army 10.

[Gnarlymutt]

My lovely wife is trying to keep me down... I have a list of honey-dos to handle before I get to pop the game in tonight. Thankfully, I found out that the list includes setting up our new 4g Internet provider hardware (dear god I hop it is ok for gaming, because I have my doubts...) and programming/setting up the new iPad2... Too many toys to play with...

[SmoothPancakes]

And we have hit the end of the 3rd quarter, score still Navy 14, Army 10. 9 minutes is all that's left in this baby.

[SmoothPancakes]

And my Xbox just froze up. :fp:

[Coach Kernzy]

And my Xbox just froze up. :fp:
Oh no, did you install the game to your hard drive?

[SmoothPancakes]

Oh no, did you install the game to your hard drive?

Yeah, that is the very first thing I ever do before I start up a game. Now I'll never know who wins that battle between Army and Navy. :(

[SmoothPancakes]

Anyone know how to embed the highlight videos from EASportsWorld into here?

[JBHuskers]

Anyone know how to embed the highlight videos from EASportsWorld into here?

Don't think you can...download it, and I am pretty sure you can upload a .FLV file directly to YouTube.

[Coach Kernzy]

Well first and foremost I love the gameplay as a whole.
But...I am not loving the broadcast camera because it's pretty hard to adjust players and routes and such from that angle but maybe it's something I'll just have to get used to. I am going to try the old coach mode though with auto-pass and see if the game plays the same just as a comparison.

W Mich is up 10-0 at half behind a great passing game led by Kansas native Alex Carder but Kent St is getting some good pressure right up the middle with 3 sacks by SR DT #93 who is eating my freshman RG alive. Love the realism there.

Overall, LOVING IT!!!!!!!!

[JBHuskers]

I think we're still going to have fun with this OD! :nod:

[SmoothPancakes]

Don't think you can...download it, and I am pretty sure you can upload a .FLV file directly to YouTube.

Thanks JB. After going through the download/upload to YouTube route, here are the highlight videos I saved (before my game froze) of the QB scrambles, the first one a 10 yard gain on 1st and 10 by Army, the other an 11 yard gain on 2nd and 7 by Navy.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Oi0sb3ux0jM


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZaBj2iq7VvY

[Coach Kernzy]

Oh yeah this is going to be a blast for sure, just not sure the best way to play.
It's one of those deals, since we have to play with auto-pass on in user vs user games do we just play that way all the time with the honor system?
I'm going to do some more testing and would like all of you to do the same and give your thoughts as well.

[Coach Kernzy]

Man guys I really think the way to go is still old school coach mode with auto-pass and then do RB, RB for all kicks meaning you SIM and then Watch Play for the kicks.
I'm just having a really hard time with the broadcast camera angle and it seems to far away so you don't get the closer detail and you don't feel like you are in the action as much as the behind the LOS camera with regular play and auto-pass on.

Thoughts everyone?

[morsdraconis]

Truthfully, I'd be disappointed in not being able to use the Coach Mode setting. I don't mind the alternate angle. Can make it a bit difficult to read the defense, but I'll get used to it. Reminds me of a coach looking from the sidelines at the play happening.

[JBHuskers]

Yeah I am going to use the Coach Mode cam....it's just like NFL Head Coach's....

[Underdog]

I like the coach mode angle.

[Coach Kernzy]

Well I'd say if you want to use any option or read plays at all you'd have to use the coach mode/broadcast cam but if you aren't planning on using any of that you could use the auto-pass/regular cam setup and just sim/watch play for all the kicks which is what I may well do.
I've played both ways now a couple games and the gameplay seems to be the same either way.
BTW, I'll be around almost all evening so if someone wants to try to run one online let's give it a shot.

[natcret]

Smooth and Coach, what level were you doing your Coach mode tests?

[natcret]

Another question. Could be possible that we start compiling positives/negatives related to coach mode that could assist in finalizing the rules for the league?

[Coach Kernzy]

Yeah here's the deal guys.

AA 8 min qtrs for testing

I'd like everyone to try the coach mode/broadcast cam and the auto-pass/regular cam. I think depending on the type of offense you want and which you prefer I'm going to allow you to decide individually which way you want to play coach mode but be aware that when playing user vs user games the only option is auto-pass/regular cam.

[SmoothPancakes]

Smooth and Coach, what level were you doing your Coach mode tests?

I was playing on All-American, 9 minute quarters. For sliders (at least in regards to those affecting the CPU players), I was using steelerfan's sliders that I'm testing out.


I will update this post with changes that I make throughout the year.

Settings - House Rules (Game Difficulty & Penalties)

Gameplay Options|
Skill|All-American
Injuries|On
Fatigue|On
Quarter Length|9 Minutes
Play Clock|On
Coaching Tips|Off
Game Speed|Slow
Player Min Speed Threshold|30
Home Field Advantage Effects|On
Ice the Kicker|On
|
Game Rules
|
Offsides|57
False Start|74
Holding|54
Facemask|60
Offensive Pass Interference|100
Defensive Pass Interference|100
KR/PR Interference|65
Clipping|52
Intentional Grounding|85
Roughing the Passer|54
Roughing the Kicker|60
|
Custom AI
|
USER
QB Accuracy|35
Pass Blocking|50
WR Catching|55
RB Ability|40
Run Blocking|30
Pass Coverage|30
Pass Rush|10
Interceptions|25
Rush Defense|10
Tackling|50
FG Power|40
FG Accuracy|45
Punt Power|45
Punt Accuracy|30
Kickoff Power|50
|
CPU
QB Accuracy|50
Pass Blocking|50
WR Catching|60
RB Ability|65
Run Blocking|50
Pass Coverage|45
Pass Rush|50
Interceptions|30
Rush Defense|80
Tackling|50
FG Power|45
FG Accuracy|40
Punt Power|55
Punt Accuracy|75
Kickoff Power|50


Settings - Strategy (Set Audibles & Auto-Subs)

Auto-Subs|
|
OFFENSE
QB Sub Out|40
QB Sub In|60
RB Sub Out|80
RB Sub In|85
WR Sub Out|80
WR Sub In|85
FB/TE Sub Out|80
FB/TE Sub In|85
OL Sub Out|40
OL Sub In|60
|
DEFENSE
DT Sub Out|80
DT Sub In|85
DE Sub Out|80
DE Sub In|85
LB Sub Out|65
LB Sub In|85
CB Sub Out|65
CB Sub In|85
S Sub Out|65
S Sub In|85

Settings - System Settings - Volume Control

Master|100
Commentators|70
Stadium PA|100
Crowd|90
On the Field|90
Menu Music|75
Menu Sound FX|75
Custom Stadium Sounds|12
Road to Glory Commentary|Off


Yeah here's the deal guys.

AA 8 min qtrs for testing

I'd like everyone to try the coach mode/broadcast cam and the auto-pass/regular cam. I think depending on the type of offense you want and which you prefer I'm going to allow you to decide individually which way you want to play coach mode but be aware that when playing user vs user games the only option is auto-pass/regular cam.

Eh, for me I'll probably stick with full coach mode. I really didn't mind the camera at all and I was enjoying watching the plays feeling like I was sitting in the stands. It was nice from the constant "behind the QB/MLB" camera. It was different and fresh.

[natcret]

Should we be considering the slider changes or should we wait and keeps things vanilla until the final sliders come out. Also, how does the sliders affect a coach-mode game as opposed to a joystick-controlled game?

[Coach Kernzy]

The plan I believe is to use AA, 8 min qtrs, default sliders and everything else for our purposes. As we get going we can adjust as necessary for sure....

[SmoothPancakes]

Should we be considering the slider changes or should we wait and keeps things vanilla until the final sliders come out. Also, how does the sliders affect a coach-mode game as opposed to a joystick-controlled game?

Yeah, that, I have no idea what the sliders do or change when it comes to coach mode games. I assume it just takes only the CPU sliders into account since it's all CPU players, or what. But those sliders were the first thing I set up (along with other setting changes) and I ended up just carrying them into my coach mode game. As far as actually using sliders in this dynasty, it makes no different to me one way or the other.

Just wanted to give full disclosure on my play now coach mode game I was playing earlier and let you guys know I was using custom sliders in it (whether there is an actual effect by them or not).

[Archedemius]

I'm probably going to keep the Coach mode angle. It looks great on the flatscreen.

[Coach Kernzy]

I just lost to Mich 31-19 but I was driving and fumbles and they ran it back for a score to make it worse than it really was.
Maybe a little unlikely but Michigan isn't what they used to be and with a new coach and all new schemes I think a close game with W Mich is possible.

[SmoothPancakes]

I'm probably going to keep the Coach mode angle. It looks great on the flatscreen.

I agree! I have a 37 inch flat screen and I love playing it with the Coach Mode angle. It feels great to watch it play out.

[natcret]

Will need some help in getting set up. For now, do I select Dynasty or online dynasty?

[morsdraconis]

Nothing at the moment. Kernzy has the set up the dynasty, which won't be done until we have named rosters. Until then, just enjoy the game and maybe practice with your team/coach mode stuff a little bit.

[natcret]

Thanks

[Archedemius]

Looking at Thursday at them moment for Fairdale Kings rosters.

[Coach Kernzy]

Yeah I'd say by Friday at the lastest we'll be ready to get started with the preseason stuff like setting up your recruiting board, redshirts, depth charts and all that.

I am amazed at how well this game plays at default AA. Great, great game and it is going to make this dynasty with all you guys so much fun.

[SmoothPancakes]

Umm... Are we certain we can use custom playbooks in Online Dynasty? I'm in the middle of setting up a single-player online dynasty to test out some of the new stuff, and in the playbook sections of the Create A Coach screen, my custom playbooks aren't listed. I've searched all over but Kitchen Sink O and Kitchen Sink D aren't listed. I know they're there because I backed out to the main menu and checked the Custom Playbook area, and both playbooks are listed in the Custom Playbook section.

[SmoothPancakes]

Umm... Are we certain we can use custom playbooks in Online Dynasty? I'm in the middle of setting up a single-player online dynasty to test out some of the new stuff, and in the playbook sections of the Create A Coach screen, my custom playbooks aren't listed. I've searched all over but Kitchen Sink O and Kitchen Sink D aren't listed. I know they're there because I backed out to the main menu and checked the Custom Playbook area, and both playbooks are listed in the Custom Playbook section.

Just for the record, I got my answer thanks to OptionMasta in the main forums. When you create the dynasty Coach Kernzy, if you have a custom playbook you want to use, you'll have to assign your coach just a random regular team playbook first while you are in the Create A Coach menus for your coach. Then when you get into the actual dynasty settings, there will be an option to allow custom playbooks in the House Rules section.

Once you get the dynasty fully created, you'll then be able to go into the Coach Philosophy tab for your coach and set your coach's playbooks to your custom playbooks. The rest of us, as we join the dynasty, should be able to pick our custom playbook right in the Create A Coach menu as the custom playbooks option will already be set to allowed by yourself during the dynasty creation.

[Coach Kernzy]

Good deal Smooth, as soon as those FK rosters are done I'll get us setup and going. I'm more excited than ever after playing several games last night including a few user v user online coach mode games.

[Archedemius]

I guess I will be working on custom playbooks the next few days. Already have my recruiting strategy ready. Don't steal my recruits Coach K!

[Coach Kernzy]

We'll be battling for some I'm sure but that'll certainly be part of the fun of this OD.

[JBHuskers]

Yeah I need to do my custom playbooks too, prob is I'm pretty busy tonight and tomorrow...so Friday it will be!

[Coach Kernzy]

I would imagine custom playbooks will be an ever evolving thing for most of us and I'll be adding and subtracting and tweaking mine quite a bit based on what I find to work and not work as well as the changes in my personnel.

[natcret]

FYI.

I don't know if this has been discussed yet:

Under "Play Now", when you select Practice and select the Controls to Coach, when you use the indoor practice stadium, the roof of the field will block the on field view that is set by design for coach mode.

So, if you select this mode, select the practice field instead of the indoor one.

I did check an indoor stadium at random (Georgia Dome) and there was no problem under Coach mode.

[Coach Kernzy]

Good find natcret, rosters should be ready hopefully tomorrow and we can all get this going.

[Coach Kernzy]

Got a couple more online coach mode games in with Gnarlymutt last night and we had a 3-0 defensive struggle and a 27-24 back and forth game where a last second FG won it. Couple things I'm noticing.

1. We may have to go with 9 min qtrs to get more realistic amounts of plays per game.
2. Offense at times can be just flat out bad but I'm not sure if that is attributable to the game overall or just our teams and the fact they aren't the greatest.

Overall though the game still plays excellent.

As always if you guys have suggestions or thoughts on how to improve things please never hesitate to let them be known.

[morsdraconis]

I have absolutely no problem with games ending in 7-0 scores or even 24-21 games. That's a realistic score for two teams that aren't that great defensively or offensively.

I mean, that game we played against one another, you murdered me on the ground (19 rushes for 155 yards or something like that) but I was also able to stop you when it counted.

I'm LOVING the scores I'm seeing from you guys playing one another. Those are the type of scores I hope to see with my offline Coach Mode dynasty against the CPU as well.

[Coach Kernzy]

Yeah I'm good with the scores as well but for # of plays purposes and being as realistic as possible stat wise I think we may well have to go to 9 min qtrs and then the discussion of do we stick with default sliders to start or go with something like steelerfans sliders, or do we start with default and just adjust as we all see fit week to week?

[JBHuskers]

Gonna get those type of games this year with the improved defense. I love it.

[morsdraconis]

Well, I think default is fine for play purposes, but I think we need to steal :sf:'s penalty sliders as he's really figured out the best place for them all so far (besides increasing rough the passer to 55 instead of 54 so that it's actually called).

[Gnarlymutt]

Based on the handful of games we've played against each other, in my opinion, the 9 minute qtrs just feel better. I also feel that our stats support that line of thinking. +1 on 9 min. Qtrs.

[Coach Kernzy]

Alright agreed, based on that here is what we'll do.

- Stick with default AA but adjust as necessary once we all get going.

- 9 min qtrs

- steelersfan's penalty sliders including 55 on roughing the passer (we'll keep track of his progress and adjust as well)

[JBHuskers]

Alright agreed, based on that here is what we'll do.

- Stick with default AA but adjust as necessary once we all get going.

- 9 min qtrs

- steelersfan's penalty sliders including 55 on roughing the passer (we'll keep track of his progress and adjust as well)

Yeah you can always update the sliders and they'll take effect the next advance.

[Coach Kernzy]

Just read here (http://web1.ncaa.org/mfb/2011/Internet/trend/FBS_trend_conf_1.pdf) from the official stats on NCAA's site that the average # of offensive plays was 68.4 so based on the games I've played we'll have to certainly play 9 min qtrs to get anywhere close to that # for both teams.

Obviously depends on how fast you call plays and no huddle and all that but that is the average of last year in college football.

[Archedemius]

Some people try to find those averages in-game pretty quickly. Hopefully by Friday someone will have posted somewhere on approximate times with sliders. It is early on, but sometimes sliders will affect the game enough to where you will only need 7-8 minutes a quarter. I'm fine with whatever we do, I just REALLY REALLY want this to get going!

[Archedemius]

Also, Fairdale only has two conferences and indies to do. This could be done tonight. What are your thoughts on getting it setup for us who are available to start recruiting?

[Coach Kernzy]

FK rosters should be out tonight hopefully and if so you can all expect to be seeing invites in your XBL message inbox.

[Archedemius]

WOOT!

[SmoothPancakes]

So while I was sort of on the fence with Cipher being gone, looking at the teams now, I'm actually sort of happy. :D I was going to be forced into user vs. user games with North Texas, Arkansas State and Florida Atlantic for this first season. As I'd much rather have the regular coach mode instead of the auto pass junk, I definitely prefer as few user vs. user games as possible, so having to do only two user vs. user games this season instead of 3 is much nicer.

[JBHuskers]

FK rosters should be out tonight hopefully and if so you can all expect to be seeing invites in your XBL message inbox.

I haven't seen an update in four days, so don't get your hopes up 100% that they'll be in tonight.

[AustinWolv]

So while I was sort of on the fence with Cipher being gone, looking at the teams now, I'm actually sort of happy. :D I was going to be forced into user vs. user games with North Texas, Arkansas State and Florida Atlantic for this first season. As I'd much rather have the regular coach mode instead of the auto pass junk, I definitely prefer as few user vs. user games as possible, so having to do only two user vs. user games this season instead of 3 is much nicer.

I hear that!

[Coach Kernzy]

Says over at OS based on ODogg's last report that they should be done tonight but even if not it'll be soon enough, no huge hurry but I know myself and I hope everyone here is excited to get this going.

[SmoothPancakes]

I haven't seen an update in four days, so don't get your hopes up 100% that they'll be in tonight.


Says over at OS based on ODogg's last report that they should be done tonight but even if not it'll be soon enough, no huge hurry but I know myself and I hope everyone here is excited to get this going.

This is taken from the forum on FK's own website:


UPDATE: Sun Belt, PAC 12, SEC, WAC, MWC, Big 12, ACC, Big 10 and Big East are done.

LEFT TO DO: CUSA, MAC, Independents

ETA for completion now is Thursday evening. Once the rosters are posted you can download them from within the game by searching for gamer tag: FAIRDALE KINGS You do NOT need to add him to your friends list so please don't send him a friends request!

You can follow along here (http://fairdale-kings.com/forums/index.php?topic=94.0).

[JBHuskers]

Guess I was going off his front page.