PML Reality Checks: Defense is back, while scheme is supereme! KingMike officially on tank watch?

Overreactions & Reality Checks for PML

Arod
Miles and Bubba epitomizes what the coaching carousel is all about and more!
Reality or Overreaction: Reality
When JT created the coaching carousel feature in PML, one of the components of the new concept was to give prospective members a platform to illustrate their value and worth to the PML community. For a while, and I wrote about this in the past, the idea never came to life, and most carousel members waited stagnant for their chance. We are starting to see a shift in this thanks in part to two members eagerly awaiting a team in the PML. I’d like to tip my cap to both Miles and Bubba as they have done more content, and meaningful content to say the least, than 3 quarters of the league. Not only are they doing content, but they have invested their time into chat and keeping up with games each and every week. I’ve always been a fan of Bubba, as he has always been one of the more respectful members (at least towards me) in the PML community for as long as I have been here. I’m well aware the commish board has their gripes with him for a bag full of priors, but the redemption story cannot be overlooked. As far as Miles goes, I will be honest, I wrote him off after last cycle as he went winless and AWOL. But this guy has stepped up to the plate and has more knowledge of PML activity and games than many of our current members, and he probably hasn’t played a PML game in about 10 calendar months. I am not sure some members understand this, but these two should symbolize fire under the a**. Miles and Bubba have embodied the PML culture and immersiveness and I openly welcome both back into the league and most importantly the playing field.

The 30 interception rule might be a little harsh… for a video game
Overreaction or reality: Reality
I’ve done a semi-deep drive into the interception numbers this season. To refresh everyone, a quarterback will lose a dev after 30 interceptions. Disclaimer* Yes, I am colorblind, I cannot read a Dr. Seuss book, Lamar has 12 interceptions, umm what else, yeah I’m a notoriously horrible passer, say what you want, but I am not writing this to lobby the new rule in any direction. Just giving some insight on where we are at since rolling it out. So doing some projections based on QB interceptions, there are 17 quarterbacks on pace for 25-40 interceptions. That is more than half the league. The way this game functions at times, in addition to playing an 60-75 mins of real time football, we’ve proven we cannot have ‘sim’ parrelled interception numbers. We never have, and never will, so why would we lower the threshold? Last season we had quarterbacks lose devs at 40, while watching users throw 40-60 each season. I agree with the per/game average so users don’t beat the system by benching quarterbacks, but based on data from previous seasons, how could we possibly move this lower? Nobody wants to see 30-40 interceptions, not even 15-20, but the numbers dont lie… in our video game world, it is one of the harder stats to simulate what we see in real life Sundays.

King Mike
PML Needs a Generational Talent Late in Drafts
Reality or Overreaction: Reality
In PML the search for hidden gems in the later rounds of the draft is an enduring reality. While it’s a testament to the league’s strong scouting efforts that most top talents are discovered early, PML could benefit from the occasional surprise addition. The idea of seeing generational talents emerge in the 5th through 7th rounds might seem like a long shot, it’s worth considering the introduction of an element of chance, like a “Diamond in the Rough” roll, that could occasionally introduce one or two players with ratings ranging from 78 to 80 overall. Such a feature could add an exciting twist to the draft, inject more unpredictability into team-building, and make every selection round equally compelling for coaches. Ultimately, it could enhance the league’s competitiveness and entertainment value, showcasing the depth of PML’s talent pool.

Defense will be Back in PML after latest update
Reality or Overreaction: Reality
Defense making a comeback in PML after the latest update is a reality. With the tuning of match coverage, coaches who have utilized this tactic in the past are expected to perform better on the virtual field. This adjustment is likely to reintroduce a balanced and competitive element to PML, where defense plays a crucial role in determining game outcomes. The update provides coaches with an opportunity to rethink their strategies. It was tough for those who utilize match coverage to be handicapped.

Hypemike
This Madden takes more scheme than previous ones.
Reality or Overreaction: Reality
This might be reality. The game this year is way more sim compared to the last few Maddens. It is still far from perfect, but everything from the movement to the mechanics is realistic. It is hard to stop some of the best offenses in Madden likewise it is in real life. I just feel like the concepts and things are much more realistic. Yes, its Madden and people can still find ways to cheese. However, you gotta have at least a little bit of football knowledge to do really well.

The NFC East is a toss up.
Reality or Overreaction: Reality
Coming into this division, you would think the Cowboys would dominate. However, the Commanders have been putting up valiant efforts against some top ranked teams. The Cowboys are winning the division but there has definitely been some unexpected competition for Drama. Will HD do something with the Eagles? Hopefully someone can give Drama a run for his money, but I still do not know who is gonna win it. We’ve seen Drama start out hot then lose 9 straight.

Bubba
Deebo and the Fins are legit
Reality or Overreaction: Reality
Everyone saw the headlines, “No way Dolphins scored 70”, “Greatest offensive game of all time”, Somehow, Deebo found a way to replicate that masterful performance and put up 72 of his own against the Broncos. Both Mostert and Achane had over 100 and a TD, and the top two WRs Hill and Waddle found their way into the endzone. If the Fins offense can keep that up they will win a lot of games. Week 4 the Fins are still to play the Bills, who have also been an offensive juggernaut. This is Miami’s biggest test yet, and it will be interesting to see how they play after a huge week 3 statement game.

King Mike officially on Tank watch?
Reality or Overreaction: Overreaction
Pump the brakes guys, while this season has not started great for the Raiders, I don’t think Mike has it in him to tank for the whole season. A Brutal week 3 loss to Curt and the Steelers, followed by a loss week 4 to the red hot Chargers is tough, but it seems the issue is more defensively than anything. The Raiders actually lead the league in pass offense, but also are dead last in pass defense. Mike also ranks 30th in points given up, and 31st total ypg. This defensive unit just can’t get the stops needed to keep the team in the game. Luckily for King Mike this division is still close and it’s not too late to turn the season around, and squeak into a Wildcard.