Madden NFL 08 [X360]

>>> Read Top 5 Things to Know About Madden 08

CHECK OUT THE DEFENSIVE PLAYMAKER FEATURE LEARN TO USE THE SMART QB AND SMART DEFENSE FEATURES

The best defense is not a good offense. The best defense is Brian Urlacher swarming the football field and hitting anything that moves. Not every team has an Urlacher in Madden NFL 08, but every team does have several new defensive tools that will make even Peyton Manning shake in his spikes.

The first and most obvious defensive tool is the new Hit Stick 2.0. Using the hit stick is a bit of a risk since you tend to miss more tackles, but experienced Madden players will have no problem dropping the hammer on opponents this season. When using a big hitter or bruising player, make sure you hit the stick up to go for a high tackle, increasing the chances of forcing a fumble. If you are a smaller defensive back taking on a bruising ball carrier, be sure to hit the stick down to take out his legs, hopefully tearing some of his virtual ligaments in the process.

EA has also brought back the strip button, which you should hit when you jump in late on a gang tackle. You'll notice the defender swiping at the ball -- you can usually force at least one fumble a game. This is especially helpful for defensive backs tackling runners from behind, although try this in the open field and you're liable to get juked out of your shoes or simply run over.

It also helps to utilize your defensive weapons. Star players this year are broken up into different categories, such as Brick Wall Defender or Big Hitter, and these heavyweights are able to make plays that others can't. While your scrubs will likely wilt at the sight of an oncoming behemoth like Brandon Jacobs, uber-defender Ray Lewis will have no problem taking him on with the hit stick. If you don't have a defensive horse, it's best to go in for a basic wrap tackle and wait for the rest of your team to help take him to the turf.