NCAA Football 2002 Strategy Guide Version 0.4 8/4/01 Author: DreThug E-Mail: DreThug@hotmail.com Sections: 1: Introduction 2: Update History 3: Controls 4: Game Modes 5: Basic Offensive Strategy Vs Computer 6: Basic Offensive Strategy Vs Human 7: Basic Defensive Stategy 8: Passing Strategy 9: Running Strategy Vs Computer 10: Running Strategy Vs Human 11: Field Goal Strategy 12: Punt Strategy 13: Punt Return Strategy 14: Blocking Punts Strategy Vs Human 15: Kick Off Strategy 16: How To Win Easily Vs Computer (Cheap) 17: My Favorite Plays 18: Running Options 19: 4-3 Defense Information 20: Campus Challenge 21: Card Collection 22: Team Statistics 23: Personal Review 24: Codes/Secrets 25: Glitches 26: Red Shirting 27: Is Your Game Defective? 28: Frequently Asked Questions 29: Credits 30: Ways Of Contacting Me 31: Before You E-mail Me 32: Legal Information 33: Final Thoughts ==================================================================== THE NEWEST VERSION OF THIS GUIDE CAN ALWAYS BE FOUND AT: Cheat Code Central (www.cheatcc.com) the #1 videogame site on the net! ==================================================================== --------------------------------- 1: Introduction --------------------------------- NCAA Football 2002 is the best college football game ever made. I decided to go run out and buy NCCA Football 2002 the first day it came out without reading any reviews on it. I figured that this game would be extremely good and I'm not disappointed at all. Like all my other strategy guides, you can expect all the NCAA Football 2002 information there is to be found in this guide. Also, you will get my strategies of how to master this game. Basically, NCAA Football 2002 is the best college football game on the market so you should buy the game right now. I hope that you learn a lot from reading this strategy guide and if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions feel free to throw them my way at: DreThug@hotmail.com. Thanks and enjoy! It's back to school - time to hit the books and hit the field. If you're looking for a crash course in NCAA football, you came to the right place. EA Sports brings the spirit and toughness that you love in college football to the Playstation 2 console for the first time. Feel the spirit of college football like never before as you fight your way to the top of the Bowl Championship Series standings. See coaches sweat it out on the sidelines and mascots pump up the crowd - every game counts. All the pageantry of NCAA football is here. Suit up and take your team all the way to the Rose Bowl and the National Championship. --------------------------------- 2: Update History --------------------------------- August 4th 2002 (version 0.4) - I am so stupid. On accident I said Red Carding instead of Red Shirting. I have no idea what I was thinking and I'm very sorry for this inconvience. I believe that I thought of Red Carding because I was just done updating the Campus Cards. On a side note, I've updated a few more glitches that I have found in the game. Thanks to my good friend who plays at Michigan State University I've added a whole section dedicated on 4-3 Defense. Look for a big update in the next few days. August 2nd 2002 (version 0.3) - I took a few days off from touching this guide because I was working on my NBA Street guide which is now up. I've been receiving tons of e-mail about Red Shirting so I added a section about that. I also added some new glitches that I found and I posted a few codes. I've mastered blocking punts against human players so I added my strategy on that. Also, there is a few new Campus Cards up and a section called "How To Win Easily" which practically ensures you a victory on the heisman difficulty level. It's a pretty cheap way to play but if you want to show off to your friends then I guess you should read that section. If you need to contact me for a quick response I have added a section called "Ways Of Contacting Me." This will tell you how to contact me in different ways. There's nothing really else in this update because I'm still exploring the dynasty mode. When I get enough information on the dynasty mode, I'll add a comprehensive section on it. Until then, goodluck and watch out for Madden 2002 on the horizon. July 28th 2001 (version 0.2) - I love the idea that i've been getting tons of feedback from this strategy guide. This update is a major update with tons of new things in it. First off, I have added a lot more cards that are unlocked. Even though I like the idea of people sending me in cards that are missing, i'm going to just post the ones that I unlock to verify them. Another thing I've added is a Glitch section which has me listing all the glitches I have witnessed in the game. Feel free to send in any glitches that you have found in the game also. Another section I have made is a Defective Game Section. I've been getting literally TONS of e-mail about NCAA Football 2002 being defective. Check that section out if you think that your game is defective. Lastly, I've added a "Running Options" section which is dedicated just to running options. Thanks to playing for about 10 hours today, I've mastered running options on my friend and on the computer. Other than that, I don't have anything else for this update. Don't worry though, a Dynasty section will be coming soon and a whole lot of informative sections will be making their way in to this guide as the days progress. Until then, later. July 26th 2001 (version 0.1) - This is the very first version of my NCAA Football 2002 strategy guide. I was rushing to get this version out on July 25th but then I felt that I should work more on it and give a good version of the guide then releasing a shoddy version. I worked on this guide countless hours already. I stayed up until 4 AM playing and working on this guide just for you guys. Each day I will probably have a major update because I am so addicted to this game. This is just a start to the guide. There will be a lot more when I uncover new strategies and more ideas for this guide. I hope you enjoy this strategy guide and if you have any questions, comments, or suggestions feel free to e-mail me at: DreThug@hotmail.com. Oh yeah, I know there will be other strategy guides coming out in the future but before anymore come out I have one question to ask the authors. Why? There's no point in trying to match this guide cause it's not possible so please don't try to boost up your guide or plagerize by using information from my guide. You will be caught, trust me! And if you don't believe me, just check out all my other guides. Of course, quality over quantity when DreThug is writing. --------------------------------- 3: Controls --------------------------------- The controls in NCAA Football 2002 are exactly like Madden 2001's controls except for a few differences. Here I have listed all the controls in the game. Menu Navigation X..............Select/Go to next screen O..............Not in use Triangle.......Return to previous screen Square.........Not in use Start..........Not in use Select.........Not in use D-Pad..........Toggle Options, Highlight Options Analog.........Not in use R1.............Not in use R2.............Not in use L1.............Not in use L2.............Not in use General Gameplay X..............Not in use O..............Not in use Triangle.......Not in use Square.........Not in use Start..........Pause Select.........Call timeout D-Pad..........Not in use Left Analog....Not in use Right Analog...Not in use R1.............Not in use R2.............Not in use L1.............Not in use L2.............Not in use Playcalling X..............Select formation O..............Select corresponding play Triangle.......Select corresponding play Square.........Select corresponding play Start..........Not in use Select.........Not in use D-Pad..........Cycle through formations/plays Left Analog....Not in use Right Analog...Not in use R1.............Not in use R2.............Not in use L1.............Bluff playcall (upper window) L2.............Bluff playcall (lower window) Offense - Before the Snap X..............Snap Ball O..............Fake Snap Signal Triangle.......Call Hot Route Square.........Call Audible (Square + any other button) Start..........Start/Pause Game Select.........Not in use D-Pad..........Cycle through man in motion options/select Left Analog....Not in use Right Analog...Not in use R1.............Don't show play diagram on field (R1 + D-pad) R2.............Show play diagram on field (R2 + D-pad) L1.............Not in use L2.............Crowd Control Offense - Running X..............Sprint O..............Spin Triangle.......Jump/Hurdle Square.........Dive/QB Slide Start..........Start/Pause Game Select.........Not in use D-Pad..........Run Left Analog....Run Right Analog...Jump (Up) Spin (Down) R1.............Juke Right R2.............Lateral L1.............Juke Left L2.............Stiff Arm Offense - Passing X..............Bring up passing symbols O..............Throw to receiver Triangle.......Throw to receiver Square.........Throw to receiver Start..........Start/Pause Game Select.........Not in use D-Pad..........Run Left Analog....Run Right Analog...Select receiver by direction of analog R3.............Pass the ball R1.............Throw to receiver R2.............Pump Fake L1.............Throw to receiver L2.............Toggle passing symbols Offense - Receiving X..............Control intended receiver O..............Not in use Triangle.......Jump Square.........Dive Start..........Start/Pause Game Select.........Not in use D-Pad..........Run Left Analog....Run Right Analog...Jump R3.............Control intended receiver R1.............Not in use R2.............Not in use L1.............Not in use L2.............Not in use Defense - Before The Snap X..............Cycle Through Defenders O..............Cycle Through Defenders Triangle.......Coverage Audibles (Triangle + anything) Square.........Call Audible (Square + anything) Start..........Start/Pause Game Select.........Not in use D-Pad..........Reposition players Left Analog....Reposition players Right Analog...Not in use L3.............Cycle Through Defenders R1.............Linebacker Shift R2.............Defensive Line Pinch L1.............Linebacker Shift L2.............Not in use Defense - After The Snap X..............Control player (nearest the ball) O..............Sprint Triangle.......Jump/Defend Pass Square.........Dive Start..........Start/Pause Game Select.........Not in use D-Pad..........Move player Left Analog....Move player Right Analog...Jump/Defend Pass (Up) Dive (Down) R3.............Control player (nearest the ball) R1.............Swim/Rip move R2.............Spin move L1.............Swim/Rip move L2.............Spin move Kicking Game - Kicking X..............Start Meter/Kick X..............Kick Power X..............Kick Accuracy R3.............Start Meter/Kick R3.............Kick Power R3.............Kick Accuracy D-Pad..........Aim Kick Left Analog....Aim Kick Kicking Game - Returning A Kick X..............Switch Players R3.............Switch Players D-Pad..........Control Return Man Left Analog....Control Return Man Triangle.......Fair Catch/Kneel --------------------------------- 4: Game Modes --------------------------------- Here are all the modes of play in NCAA Football 2002 with a description of each one. Exhibition Set up your own game with up to 8 players. Choose your teams, weather, difficulty level, and all that other gravy in this basic exhibition mode. This is the place to go when you are playing with friends or if you want some practice games that don't count towards your dynasty. Season Play a regular season game with any team of your choice. Try to compete with the top teams and earn a bid at a bowl game. I don't know why anyone would do a season mode where there is a bigger and better Dynasty Mode. Dynasty Mode This is where NCAA Football 2002 shines. Draft players, see your seniors go to the pros, change your rosters, and compete for bid titles with your team of your choice. Play through numerous years trying to keep your school up with the pack. Like a small name school? Try making them win a bowl game and get nationally ranked. Dynasty Mode has all of this plus more! Practice Mode Need to brush up on your skills? If so, the practice mode is the place for you. Better use this mode before you play big name people like myself. Rosters Want to update rosters, Create A Player, or do anything cool like that? To get to the rosters menu go to options and then select Rosters. User Profiles Make a profile for yourself and track your personal stats. A user profile is also necessary if yoy want to do Campus Challenges. Settings Change the difficulty level, game time, and all that nonsense at the setting menu which can be found other the options section on the main screen. Memory Card Save, delete, and copy your files. Enough said there. Campus Challenge This is a really cool option. Buy cards buy completing challenges that are set for you. THe higher the difficulty level you are playing on, the more points you get if you complete that challenge. Also, at the Campus Challenge screen you can see the record books and try to beat them. It's hard to do, but if you are as good as me it's very possible. Season Preview This can be found at Inside EA Sports. If you go to season preview you get to see a clip of Madden 2002 which is the next anticipate title by EA Sports. Credits Want to see who made this game? Check out the credits section then and give props to these great men! --------------------------------- 5: Basic Offensive Strategy Vs Computer --------------------------------- NCAA Football 2002 uses the same gameplay system as Madden 2001 did so right when I picked up this game I could give the computer on the Heisman difficulty level a run for their money. Offense is very necessary in winning a football game. If you don't have any offense, it is very hard for a team to win because you always have to rely on your defense. This is why I made the basic offensive strategy. In this section of my strategy guide, I will teach you the basics of being a good NCAA Football 2002 player. This alone will not help you be any better at the game because this section sets up more scenarios and gives less tips. If you think you don't need this section, skip it and go to one of the more in-depth strategies. If you think you want help with this section, then please read on. Say you get the ball at the 20 yard line. It's first and 10 and you don't have any clue what to do. You are playing the computer on Heisman mode so you don't really have a lot of room for mistake. Usually, on first down I run the ball up the middle. I try to pick up a few yards (hopefully 3) so I can get it to second and seven. If it is 2nd down and I only have 5-7 yards left to go I feel very comfortable. Against the computer, I never run too the sides. I feel that the computer gets to me way too fast for some reason so I can never even pick up any yards. Also, when I'm playing the computer I never run backwards because I will never break any tackles. On second down I usually go for a short pass. The short pass is either a comeback route or a 90 angle turn so my man is usually wide open. When my receiver catches it he usually gets the first down and I start the rotation over. But for demonstration purposes, say my receiver drops the ball. Now it's 3rd and seven. Here I decided to go deep. Pick a play that you know a lot about so you know exactly when to throw the ball. I usually do a play that the man runs out and then slants in so I can get a running catch. If the player catches the ball then you got a first down for sure. If you drop it, it's 4th down and you have to punt. See there is no sure way that you can always get a 1st down, but theres a lot of ways to help you get one. Using the turbo button is almost a necesity when playing against the computer. If you run through a guy using the turbo button you will usually fall a couple yards more if you just took the regular hit. I rarely use the spin move because I find it to be very ineffective. The jukes work out really good if you only have one man to get pass but other than that they are too slow. Hurdles are useful if you need to try jumping over a guy and dives are always helpful for picking up an extra yard or two. When you are on offense, always try to mix up the plays so the opponent doesn't always know what you are doing. Possibly sometimes go deep on first down, and then run on second down. Always try to get more then one receiver in the game and always have about 5-7 plays that you use often. The computer is pretty tough to score against so don't get discouraged if you are having trouble scoring off of them. Sometimes even I have trouble scoring off of some of the better defenses in the leauge. --------------------------------- 6: Basic Offensive Strategy Vs Human --------------------------------- Playing against a friend or a foe, scoring is a lot easier. When I play against a friend I usually go all out air attack on them. I do this because the computer on heisman has a lot better defense then most of the opponents you will play in person. Usually, you can always find at least one play that you can always pull off when you are playing against a friend. Usually the play is a slant where no matter how good your friend is he won't be able to cover you if he doesn't have any backup. When you are playing against a friend only run when your friend doesn't expect it. Like most humans, your friend will probably be trying to protect the long ball by doing some deep coverage. If you run up on him up the middle when he only has three defensive line men you will get at least 7 yards per carry. Also, when you run against your friends don't be afraid to dance. It is a lot easier to dance around when playing your friends then it is when you are playing the computer. Another good way of killing your friends is to try to figure out what kind of defense they use. Most people will be safe and use prevent a lot which means that short passes will kill them all the time. If you know your friend is going to use prevent, then beat the hell out of him in the short game. If he likes going man on man coverage then throw deep. It's as simple as that when you are playing against your friends. Remember, most people aren't as good as the computer on the hardest difficulty level, so if you can put up good competition against them, then you should have no problem beating the hell out of your friends. --------------------------------- 7: Basic Defensive Strategy --------------------------------- Defense is a lot easier then offense in NCAA Football 2002. Basically, the defense I use it man lock on first and second down. Man lock is a great defense because it sends one guy to blitz the quarterback and still has one safety to protect the cornerbacks. Usually, anything in the 4-3 defensive scheme works on first and second down. I find it useful to stop runs and short passes. On third and long, I always use either safe or prevent which has multiple safeties protecting the cornerbacks. The only problem with using safe or prevent is that if the player runs then it's pretty hard to stop the run. That's why it's always good to try to think of your opponents next move before he makes it. When balls are thrown deep, I don't try to intercept the ball because that is basically luck. I run with the receiver and then I usually jump up right before the ball will hit his hands to deflect the ball. The only dangerous thing about trying to cut off the pass by jumping is that sometimes you jump too low and the receiver has an easy catch and an open run then. Some people like to just follow the receiver and hope that it hits the cornerbacks back. I think that might be good for beginners to get use to, but when you get good at playing make sure you jump to cut off the balls. On the defensive line, I never use the swim move or anything like that. I rush from one side and that usually does the job on the computer and almost always does the job while playing a human. If I anticipate the quarterback to throw when I'm rushing him, I will jump up in the air to bat down the ball. Usually, I just go for the sack by pressing dive. When it is third and one and I know that the offense is going to run I use punt block. I feel that this is much more effective then goal line coverage because you can penetrate through the offensive line much easier. The only problem with punt block is that if the player throws the ball it's an easy touchdown for them. I mostly use punt block against the computer because they never audible the play, and occasionally to catch a human being off guard. It's really risky, but it's worth it if you can take care of business. Some basic tips that you should know about defense is that you should always use turbo and when you are tackling a player make sure you hit him hard. A lot of the running backs are hard to take down. Also, when you are playing human players they like to move around a lot. Don't get too aggressive when you are trying to make a tackle. If the runner is dancing around 3 yards in front of you don't bite, because that's what he wants you to do. Stick to your ground and wait for other defensive players to come and then go after the runner. If you just try making an open field tackle on one one with a guy who is dancing around in the backfield you are usually not going to make the tackle. Other then that, there is really no other defensive help I can help you with. Just remember, prevent on third and long, and 3-4 coverage usually all the other time. If you do this, you will be good all the time. --------------------------------- 8: Passing Strategy --------------------------------- Passing is a lot more important in football then running. If there's only a minute left and you are 80 yards from the touchdown would you ever let your running back touch the ball? I don't think so. That's why it's always good to master passing when you are thinking of being a great NCAA Football 2002 player. The first thing you always need to learn about passing is that there is always the chance of getting sacked. When playing the computer on heisman level, you will get sacked a lot if you don't have a good offensive line. Don't get discourage if you get sacked a few times during a game because it happens to everyone. I usually pass 3/4 of the time when I'm playing the computer or a human opponent. Most of my passes are longer then 10 yards. You can use either a bullet pass by holding down the button when you release the ball or a lob pass by just tapping the button. When you do a lob pass it is usually right after you hike the ball and it's an over the head catch for a receiver. That is the only time you will ever jump to catch the ball when you are on offense. Never jump on a bullet because you won't catch the ball. When I pass, I never do straight routes. I find that the best routes are routes that start off straight and then the receiver either turning 45 or 90 degrees to catch the ball. This usually always make the cornerback slow down and you will always be open to catch the ball. To catch the ball, just take control of the runner and run in to the ball. You don't have to press anything to catch the ball. If you are looking for good plays to find to almost get a catch half the time then check out my favorite play section. The main problem with passing a lot of times is that there will be double coverage on you. When you think there is going to be double or triple coverage then run the ball. Also, don't do the same play over and over again because your opponent will figure out how to stop it. I have about 5 passing plays that I do on a regular basis to spicen up my playlist. Passing is a very simple aspect in NCAA Football 2002 if you are careful. If you are too busy looking downfield all the time then you will get sacked over and over again. If you see a blitz coming, make sure you get rid of the ball as soon as possible. It's not hard to get good at passing if you stick with it. If you are having any trouble catching or throwing good passes then feel free to e-mail me at DreThug@hotmail.com and I will personally help you out. --------------------------------- 9: Running Strategy Vs Computer --------------------------------- Running is very hard to do when you are playing the computer on Heisman difficulty level. Basically, juking won't really help when you are playing the computer. The only thing I really use is the dive button so I can pick up a few yards when I'm trying to run. Also, when you are running against the computer you should never run to the outside. For some reason the computer can stop you all the time. Basically, run straight up the middle and possibly turn right or left to get a few more couple yards. It's really hard to run against the computer when you are playing on the higher difficulty level, so I suggest you only run sparringly. Occasionally, I can pick up 5 to 7 yards on a run, but then again I get shut down a lot if I try not going up the middle. Usually, if I run more then once in a set of downs, I'll average about 3 yards a rush. If it's 3rd and 1, make sure you run up the middle because they probably won't stop you. And if they do stop you, go for it on fourth and one because they wont stop you two times in a row. --------------------------------- 10: Running Strategy Vs Human --------------------------------- Running against a human controlled player is so much easier and more useful then running against a computer. When you are running against a human feel free to run to the outside and do all kinds of jukes, spins, and stop/start runs. If you think you might get tackled, turn around and run the other way. Also, if there is a guy next to you hurdle him the ball and let him start running. It's not that hard to trick out a human player while you're running because they have a really hard time trying to anticipate what you are doing. Still, if it's 3rd and 1 I would recommend running up the middle even on a human controlled opponent. Even though running up the middle is not as rewarding when you are playing your friend, it will ensure you a few yards when you absolutely need them. Even though running is pretty easy when you are playing against a friend, it is still not as reliable as passing. So even when I'm playing against someone else, I usually stick to the passing. Trust me, it's more effective and a lot more fun to do. --------------------------------- 11: Field Goal Strategy --------------------------------- Field goals take a long time to get use to in NCAA Football 2002. To kick a field goal you need to press X twice. The first time you press X, try to come as close to the top line as you can get. If you go over in to the red section, your kick may be a litle farther but it will not be accurate. When you press X down on the bottom, try getting it in the middle of the shaded area. The farther you go to one side, the more the ball will go to that side. Before you press X, make sure you line up the kick so it goes in to the uprights. If you are kicking short kicks, you can usually keep the arrow in it's default place. If you are kicking long kicks, you should move the arrow down a little for a more of a line drive type of kick. Remember, line drive kicks are a lot easier to block for your opponent because they are pretty low when they take off. Also, a pretty easy range is 30-45 yard field goals. Once you get in to the 50 yarders you are calling it close for some of the kickers. A few of the kickers, on good days with the wind blowing in the right direction, can take a kick to the low 60 yards. If you need any extra assistance on kicking field goals feel free to e-mail me at DreThug@hotmail.com. --------------------------------- 12: Punt Strategy --------------------------------- Punting is a lot easier then field goal kicking because it doesn't really matter where the ball ends up. Basically, all you do for punting is aim where you want the ball to go and press x on the top line and in the middle of the bottom line. The higher you point the arrow the higher and shorter the punt will go. The lower you point the arrow the lower and farther it will go. Make sure you don't point the arrow too high or too low. Also, remember on punts that they can go out of bounds with no penalty. So if you are trying to punt it deep in to your opponents territory feel free to kick it out so your opponent won't be able to return it. --------------------------------- 13: Punt Return Strategy --------------------------------- All you can really do in a punt return situation vs the computer is that when you get the ball you should just try getting away from the first defender. If you do that, then you will probably get a 10-15 yard punt return. If not, then you will probably get tackled right on the spot. If you think you're gonna get hit right when you touch the ball it is safer to call for a fair catch. A lot of times I don't call for a fair catch and then I get hit and my guy drops the punt. This happens a lot when you are playing against a good team so fair catches are not the dumb thing to do all the time. Also, once you get the punt don't try dancing around that much because it won't really help you. When you are playing a friend, dancing around won't help you either because all the people will come real fast at once. --------------------------------- 14: Blocking Punts Strategy Vs Human --------------------------------- I can basically block punts all the time against my friends. This makes me a lot better at the game because a lot of times my friends will not go for it on 4th and long because there's a really good chance I'll block there punt and run it back for a touchdown. Blocking punts is probably easier in NCAA Football 2002 then it was in Madden 2001. All you need to do is the following. When you expect your player to punt go with the punt return formation. This is a little safer than punt block because if you choose punt block there will be two guys coming after you and you will have no blockers to block you which can easily make you fumble the ball. If you decide to go with Punt Block please note that it is just as easy to block punts with the punt return formation. Control your cornerback on the left side of the screen. Make sure he is the faster cornerback so you will have a better chance of getting to the kicker. Line him up so he is right next to your last blocker on the left but a little to the side so the last offensive line man can't touch him. Doing this will still have the wide receiver out there on the punting team so he will not be covered if your opponents team actually does a fake punt. Put him a little up from the line of scrimmage so you can get a running start. Right when you see the kick meter go up start running towards the kicker. You will be able to get there so quick that you will block the punt all the time. To block the punt jump up in the air. This is a lot better then going for a tackle because usually you won't get there until the ball is leaving his foot. A common problem I see a lot of people having with this punt blocking strategy is that they are jumping way too early. Don't be scared to jump a little later then you would expect. You have to remember that the ball doesn't just fly straight up from his foot and flys at an angle which you can easily cut off. I only have mastered blocking punts against human controlled players because I can see when he is going to start kicking the ball. When I play the computer I have to anticipate when he is going to hike the ball and usually I am too early or way too late. There are a few bad things about using this punt blocking strategy. Here I have listed them. 1) Say your player goes for a fake punt. The cornerback you moved to block the punt left the wide receiver wide open. He will have a very easy catch if they do a fake punt. 2) Say you don't make it in time and you jump or dive. There is a very good chance that you can get roughing the kicker or running in to the kicker which is a 15 yard penalty. This can totally change the game around because your opponent will now have a first down. 3) Say you don't block the punt and the ball is kicked to your punt returner. Now there is no one to block that wide receiver who is running up for the tackle. You are left to fair catch the ball or take a brutual hit right when you catch the ball which may cause a fumble. If you need any extra assistance with blocking punts feel free to e-mail me. --------------------------------- 15: Kick Off Return Strategy --------------------------------- I can usually average about a 30 yard kick off return against the computer or a human controlled player. Right when I get the ball I sprint straight up the field. When I see the first defender I make a sharp left and go up the field another 5 yards. Then I try to juke my way around the last defender. Usually, there will be a lot of other defenders to the side of you so it's really hard to break a lot of the tackles. Feel free to dance around if you want to on the kick off, but it usually doesn't work because there is just way too many defenders to tackle you. --------------------------------- 16: How To Win Easily Vs Computer --------------------------------- If you want to run through a dynasty mode real quick and win all the games here is what you do. Set the difficulty level to: Heisman Set the quarter length to: One Minute Turn off the Play Clock so you have unlimited time to hike the ball. Select to kick the ball first at the coin toss. Now all you have to do is make the computer go 3 and out which isn't hard. All they will do then is punt the ball and you will get the ball around the 50 yard line. Go up 15 yards and kick the field goal before half time. Then when you get the ball just run out the clock by not picking a play. If you don't want to be as cheap you can keep the play clock on and still be able to run out the 2 minutes in the halve with one first down. --------------------------------- 17: My Favorite Plays --------------------------------- Now that you read all of my strategies I would like to tell you the offensive plays I use a lot. These plays are under the UCLA playbook if you are having trouble finding them under your playbook. Shotgun Spread PA Out- Throw to the Square Hail Mary - Throw to Anyone Flood - Throw to the Square Ace - Twins WR Post - Throw to L1 Ace - Normal HB Dive HB Tackle HB Slot HB Draw I-Form Normal Power Option - Lateral it to HB I-Form Twins Vertical - Throw to X Strong - Normal HB Circle - Throw to Square --------------------------------- 18: Running Options --------------------------------- Options in college football are extremely necessary to be good at. Options can give you the boost that your team is dying to have late in a game. I pulled off a 82 option against the computer on heisman and then I almost broke another one against another team on heisman in the same day. If you are good at running options, then you will probably be very difficult to beat against the computer and against another human. There are many different kinds of options in NCAA Football 2002. Basically, I use one of the more simple ones called a Power Option. The power option is a great option to use because half the time you don't even need to pitch it to the running back to get some good yards because the quarterback can just take off with it. Running this option doesn't take that much skill either. To run this option, go to I Form Normal and select it on the far left. Then hike the ball and start running the way the running back is running behind you. Start running up the field and whenever you think that you are going to get tackled lateral it by pressing R2 to your running back and let him start running. Don't worry if you never lateral it to your running back because a lot of the time your quarterback will get a good run in. Also, try finding good gaps with the quarterback because once your quarterback starts running, it's not that easy to stop him either. If you are in the middle of the field go with the left option. If you are more to the left of the field, then switch the option to the right so then the whole play goes in the opposite direction. This gives you a lot more room to run with the ball. I run this option play at least three times a possession when I'm playing against a human player. I find that if the human player is not expecting the option, that I can pick up a lot of yards with it. Usually, I run the option at least once a possession with against the computer. I find that the computer can usually learn how to stop any kind of option late in the game so it becomes basically ineffective. Don't be scared to cut back and forth with your running back when he gets the balll because usually that is how you will find gaps in the defense. After reading this you are probably thinking that options are the best thing to use in a game. Here is why they aren't. If you use option plays a lot you are going to fumble a lot. If I use an option play more then 20 times in one game, I will fumble it at least 3 times in the game. Usually the fumbles will come when you are going down with the quarterback and you decide to lateral it. When this happens, the ball won't make it to your running back and there will be a massive dive for the ball. Occasionally, but this is very rare, the quarterback will pitch it to the running back and miss the running back completely. I've seen this happen with the computer, but it never happened to me. Also, sometimes when you are running the quarterback gets hit and just fumbles it because he doesn't have that good of ball protection. Another way that you are likely to fumble is when there is a man between you and your running back and you decide to pitch the ball. I've seen the ball hit the man in the middle multiple times and that's not a good thing. More than half the time you fumble, you will probably get the ball back, but it's still not worth trying to option too many times in a game because you will fail at least once and get a major turnover. --------------------------------- 19: 4-3 Defense Information --------------------------------- Thanks to my friend who plays ball at MSU for suppyling us with this useful information. Without him, this would never be in the guide. Note this is for a 4-3 defense, but the principles will carry over to the other defenses. Basic philosophy behind defenses: Cover 2: Corners play shallow to help on outside runs (i.e. sweeps and to cover short routes) (i.e. outs and hook routes). The two safeties split the field in halfcovering anything deep in their zones. The linebackers drop straight back tocover hook routes and crossing routes across the middle while maitaining their zone. Cover 3: Depending on whether you call cover 3 weak or strong the corner will sit and play the outside run and cover the out and hook routes, while the other corner and the two safeties split the field into 3 parts: sideline to hash, hash to hash, and hash to sideline covering the deep routes in those zones. The linebackers will drop back into their zones as usual, but depending on which you called cover 3 weak or cover 3 strong the linebacker on the call side will dropback and over a little further because the corner is sitting near the line of scrimmage. The other two backers will try to split the rest of the distance between them. Cover 4: This is where all the defensive backs cover a portion of the deep coverage. They split the field into quarters and cover deep. The linebackers drop into their zones but have to cover more area and the difference is split amongst them. Theoretically (in real life football) Cover 2 Pros: Corners can come up to help the run and shut down the short to mediumpasses on their side. Cover 2 Cons: Since the corners come up and play in the shallow zone post patterns andcorner routes are very difficult to stop because the safeties have so much field to cover and also running up the middle is easy because the linebackers dropping back rather than reading the running back or the tight end. Cover 3 Pros: You have one corner playing shallow to help the out on the run and youhave three defensive backs covering deep. Cover 3 Cons: Post patterns can easily be thrown on this defense if timed right (the reciever is past the linebackers and in between the safety and corner). Crossing routes across the middle are hard to stop if they either get behind the linebackers or in front of them. And again runing up the middle. Cover 4 Pros: Since you have four defensive backs back there it should help stop the deep ball. Supposely this will shut down post and corner routes, but I found that you can still throw those routes if perfectly timed in the game. Cover 4 Cons: Any running play could work for a decent if not big gain. Crossing routes underneath the linebackers are hard to stop too. --------------------------------- 20: Campus Challenge --------------------------------- Campus Challenge is basically the same thing as Madden Challege is in Madden 2001. The whole point of campus challenge is to try to earn credits to buy trading cards. The cards you unlock can help you win games if you choose to use them while you are playing a game. Personally, I think that's pretty cheap so I just collect the cards to show that I got all the cards. You can do the same challenge as many times as you want to get points. You can only get credits for your tasks on single player modes so you can't play your friend and just try doing all the Level 5 tasks because it is easier to do on your friend then on the computer. The game automatically recognizes if you do a task so don't worry if you think it won't remember. Here I have listed all the tasks you need to complete. Remember, the higher the difficulty level you are playing, the more creidts you get when you complete a task. Keep that in mind folks. Level 1 Credit Scale JV.................2 Varsity............4 All-American.......6 Heisman............8 Level 1 Tasks Make a 40+ Yard Field Goal Punt the ball 50+ Yards Hold CPU under 7 Points (Minimum Quarter 4 Minutes) Score 21 Points in a Game (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) One reception by 3 different players Throw 2 touchdown passes with one player Gain 200 yards of total offense (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) Break a 20 yard run Complete 5 consecutive passes Complete a 30 yard pass No incomplete passes all game (Minimum Quarter 4 Minutes) No offensive fumbles all game (Minimum Quarter 4 Minutes) No interceptions thrown all game (Minimum Quarter 4 Minutes) No sacks allowed all game (Minimum Quarter 4 Minutes) Defeat the Seminoles at home in the rain Defeat the Cornhuskers at home in fair weather Recover a fumble on defense Intercept a pass on defense Sack the opposion quarterback Record 3 tackles with one player Level 2 Credit Scale JV.................3 Varsity............6 All-American.......9 Heisman............12 Level 2 Tasks 30 yard kick reutrn average for one player (Minimum Return 2) 30 yard punt return average for one player (Minimum Return 2) Score 42 points in a game (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) Defeat the CPU by 28 points (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) 10 yard rush average for one player (Minimum Carries 5) Gain 100 receiving yards with one player Catch 2 touchdown passes with one player 20 yard receiving average for one player (Minimum Receptions 3) Score 3 rushing touchdowns with one player Throw for 300 yards with one player Throw 4 touchdown passes with one player Complete 80% of your passes (Minimum Throws 5) Complete 10 consecutive passes Commit no penalties in a game (Minimum Quarter 4 Minutes) Defeat the Gators with a regular team Record 2 sacks with oen player Force 3 turnovers in one game on defense Record 5 tackles with two different players Hold CPU under 150 total offensive yards (Minimum Quarter 4 Minutes) Gain 100 rushing yards with one player Level 3 Credit Scale JV.................4 Varsity............8 All-American.......12 Heisman............16 Level 3 Tasks Kick and recover an onside kick Punt the ball out of bounds inside the 5 yard line Score 63 points in a game (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) Shut out the CPU (Minimum Quarter 4 Minutes) Make 10 receptions with one player 10 rushing attempts by two different players Gain 100 rush and 50 receiving yards with one player Gain 150 receiving yards with one player Gain 150 rushing yards with one player Gain 400 yards of total offense (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) Break a 40 yard run Complete 15 consecutive passes Complete a 60 yard pass Hold ALL-FSU under 75 pass yards with regular team Gain 150 rushing yards vs. Oregon Ducks (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) Recover 2 fumbles on defense with one player Intercept 2 passes with one player Record 3 sacks with one player Deflect 4 passes with one player Record 8 tackles with one player Level 4 Credit Scale JV.................5 Varsity............10 All-American.......15 Heisman............20 Level 4 Tasks Make a 50+ yard field goal Punt the ball 65+ yards Make 6 two-point conversions in one game Defeat the CPU by 56 Points (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) Gain 100 rush yards with two different players Gain 100 receiving yards with two different players Gain 200 receiving yards with one player Gain 200 rushing yards with one player Complete 25 passes with one player 40 rushing attempts by one player (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) Throw for 500 yards with one player Gain 650 yards of total offense (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) Achieve 20 first downs (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) Complete one pass to 7 different receivers Return a fumble for a touchdown on defense Break a 60 yard run Cause 6 turnovers on defense Record 7 sacks with one player Record a safety on defense Return an interception for a touchdown Level 5 Credit Scale JV.................6 Varsity............12 All-American.......18 Heisman............24 Level 5 Tasks Gain 200 kick return yards with one player Gain 200 punt return yards with one player Return a kickoff for a touchdown Return a punt for a touchdown Score 84 points in a game (Maximum Quarter 6 Minutes) Complete 100% of your passes (Minimum Throws 5) 100 Receiving yards by three different players Gain 100 rush and 100 pass yards with one player Gain 100 rush and 150 pass yards with one player 20 yard rush average for one player (Minimum Carries 3) 200 Passing Yards By Two Different Players Gain 250 rushing yards with one player Break 10 tackles with one player Break an 80 yard run Complete 20 consecutive passes Play injured and score a touchdown Complete a 90 yard pass Intercept 5 passes on defense Hold CPU under 0 total offensive yards (Minimum Quarter 4) Record two safeties in one game --------------------------------- 21: Card Collection --------------------------------- There is 263 cards in the collection. 31 of those cards are fantasy teams, 25 are historic teams, 32 are stadiums, 31 are game cheats, and 144 are team boosts. Here I have listed all the card numbers and what each card does. Each card costs 50 credits. Card Number: 0 Name: Air Force Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 1 Name: Akron Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 2 Name: Alabama Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 3 Name: Alabama A&M Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 4 Name: Alabama State Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 13 Name: Ball State Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 31 Name: Delaware State Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 33 Name: Eastern Michigan Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 40 Name: Georgia Tech Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 41 Name: Grambling State Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 45 Name: Houston Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 46 Name: Howard Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 51 Name: Iowa State Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost at the position of your choice. Card Number: 52 Name: Jackson State
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 53
Name: Kansas
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 57
Name: Louisiana Tech
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 61
Name: Maryland
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 70
Name: Mississippi State
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 83
Name: Northen Illinois
Description: When pennant is played, this team weill receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 92
Name: Oregon State
Description: When pennant is played, this team weill receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 93
Name: Penn
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 107
Name: Southern Miss
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 116
Name: Texas Tech
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 117
Name: Toledo
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 127
Name: UNLV
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 130
Name: Utah
Description: When pennant is played, this team will receive a ratings boost 
at the position of your choice.

Card Number: 144
Name: 1st & 5
Description: This cheat will gtive your team 1st & 5 instead of 1st & 10 for 
one game.

Card Number: 145
Name: 1st & 15
Description: This cheat will give your opponent 1st & 15 instead of 1st & 10 
for one game.

Card Number: 148
Name: Short Changed
Description: This cheat will cause the ref to constantly spot the ball short 
for your opponent for one game.

Card Number: 150
Name: Cool Breeze
Description: This cheat will cause the wind to be in your team's favor for 
the entire game.

Card Number: 153
Name: Hands Are Tied
Description: This cheat will not allow your opponent to cause a fumble or 
intercept a pass for one game.

Card Number: 154
Name: Injury Prone
Description: This cheat will increase your opponents injuries for one game.

Card Number: 156
Name: Jammed
Description: This cheat will increase your DB's chance of jamming his man at 
the line for one game.

Card Number: 162
Name: QB Dud
Description: This cheat will cause your opponent to throw high, wobbly 
passes for one game.

Card Number: 166
Name: Steel Toe
Description: This cheat will give your team increased kick range for one 
game.

Card Number: 175
Name: Alamo Bowl
Description: This will unlock the Alamo Bowl.

Card Number: 179
Name: GalleryFurniture.com
Description: This will unlock the Gallery Furniture Bowl.

Card Number: 182
Name: Humanitarian Bowl
Description: This will unlock the Humanitarian Bowl.

Card Number: 191
Name: Louisiana Bowl
Description: This will unlock the New Orleans Bowl.

Card Number: 210
Name: 97 All-Americans
Description: This card will unlock the 1997 All-American Team.

Card Number: 223
Name: All-American Nebraska
Description: This pennant will unlock the All-Time Nebaskra CornHuskers 
team.

Card Number: 224
Name: All-American Notre Dame
Description: This pennant will unlock the All-Time Notre Dame "Fighting 
Irish" team.

Card Number: 232
Name: ARIZ Mascot Team
Description: This will unlock the Arizona Mascot Team.

Card Number: 247
Name: OSU Mascot Team
Description: This will unlock the Ohio State Mascot Team.

Card Number: 255
Name: WASH Mascot Team
Description: This will unlock the Washington Mascot Team.


---------------------------------
22: Team Statistics
---------------------------------
Here are all the teams that you can play with in NCAA Football.  Here I have 
listed each teams name with their offense, defense, special teams, and 
overall score.  No need to scroll through the game anymore to find what team 
to pick, look here.

Team Name: Air Force
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Akron
Overall: C+
Offense: B-
Defense: C
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Alabama
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Alabama A&M
Overall: C
Offense: C
Defense: C
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Alabama State
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: D+
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Alcorn State
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: C-
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Arizona
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Arizona State
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Arkansas
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Arkansas State
Overall: C+
Offense: C+
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Ark Pine-Bluff
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: D
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Army
Overall: C+
Offense: C+
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Auburn
Overall: B+
Offense: B
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Ball State
Overall: C
Offense: C+
Defense: C
Special Teams: C-

Team Name: Baylor
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Bethune-Cookman
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: C-
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Boise State
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Boston College
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Bowling Green
Overall: C
Offense: C
Defense: C
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Brown
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: D+
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Buffalo
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: C
Special Teams: C

Team Name: BYU
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: CAL
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Central Michigan
Overall: C
Offense: C
Defense: C
Special Teams: C-

Team Name: Cincinnati
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: A-

Team Name: Clemson
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: A-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Colorado
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Colorado State
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Columbia
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: D+
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Cornell
Overall: C-
Offense: C+
Defense: D
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Dartmouth
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: D+
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Delaware State
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: D+
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Duke
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Eastern Michigan
Overall: C
Offense: C
Defense: C
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: ECU
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Florida
Overall: A
Offense: A-
Defense: A-
Special Teams: A

Team Name: Florida A&M
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: D+
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Florida State
Overall: A-
Offense: A-
Defense: A-
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Fresno State
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Georgia
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: A-

Team Name: Georgia Tech
Overall: A-
Offense: A-
Defense: A-
Special Teams: A-

Team Name: Grambling State
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: C-
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Hampton
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: C-
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Harvard
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: C-
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Hawaii
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: B
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Houston
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Howard
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: C
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Idaho
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Illinois
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Indiana
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Iowa
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Iowa State
Overall: B-
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Jackson State
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: D+
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Kansas
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Kansas State
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Kent State
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: C
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Kentucky
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Louisiana Tech
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Louisville
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: LSU
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Marshall
Overall: B-
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Maryland
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Memphis
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Miami
Overall: A
Offense: A
Defense: A
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Miami (OH)
Overall: C
Offense: C+
Defense: C
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Michigan
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Michigan State
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Mid Tenn State
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Minnesota
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Miss Valley State
Overall: D+
Offense: C-
Defense: D
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Mississippi State
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Missouri
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Morgan State
Overall: D+
Offense: C-
Defense: D
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Navy
Overall: C+
Offense: C+
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: N Carolina A&T
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: D
Special Teams: C

Team Name: NC State
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Nebraska
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: A-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Nevada
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: New Mexico
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: New Mexico State
Overall: B-
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Norfolk State
Overall: D+
Offense: C-
Defense: D+
Special Teams: C

Team Name: North Carolina
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: North Texas
Overall: C+
Offense: C+
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Northen Illinois
Overall: C+
Offense: C+
Defense: C+
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Northwestern
Overall: B+
Offense: A-
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Notre Dame
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: A-

Team Name: Ohio
Overall: C+
Offense: C+
Defense: C
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Ohio State
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Oklahoma
Overall: A-
Offense: A-
Defense: B+
Special Teams: A-

Team Name: Oklahoma State
Overall: B-
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Ole Miss
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Oregon
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Oregon State
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Penn
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: C-
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Penn State
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Pittsburgh
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Prarie View A&M
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: D+
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Princeton
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: C-
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Purdue
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Rice
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Rutgers
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: C
Special Teams: B

Team Name: San Diego State
Overall: B-
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: San Jose State
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: S Carolina State
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: D
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: SMU
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: South Carolina
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Southern
Overall: C-
Offense: C
Defense: D
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Southern Miss
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Stanford
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Syracuse
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: TCU
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Temple
Overall: B-
Offense: B
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Tennessee
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: A-
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Texas
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Texas A&M
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Texas Southern
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: C-
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Texas Tech
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Toledo
Overall: C+
Offense: C+
Defense: C+
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Troy State
Overall: C
Offense: C
Defense: C-
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: Tulane
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Tulsa
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: UAB
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: UCF
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: UCLA
Overall: B+
Offense: A-
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: UConn
Overall: C+
Offense: C+
Defense: C
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: UL Lafayette
Overall: C+
Offense: C+
Defense: C+
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: UL Monroe
Overall: C+
Offense: C+
Defense: C+
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: UNLV
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: USC
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: USF
Overall: C+
Offense: B-
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Utah
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: B
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Utah State
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: C+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: UTEP
Overall: B-
Offense: B
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Vanderbilt
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B-

Team Name: Virginia
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Virginia Tech
Overall: B+
Offense: A-
Defense: B+
Special Teams: A

Team Name: Wake Forest
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Washington
Overall: B
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Washington State
Overall: B-
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: C+

Team Name: West Virginia
Overall: B
Offense: B
Defense: B
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Western Michigan
Overall: C+
Offense: B-
Defense: B-
Special Teams: C

Team Name: Wisconsin
Overall: B+
Offense: B+
Defense: B+
Special Teams: B+

Team Name: Wyoming
Overall: B-
Offense: B-
Defense: B-
Special Teams: B

Team Name: Yale
Overall: C-
Offense: C-
Defense: D+
Special Teams: C


---------------------------------
23: Personal Review
---------------------------------
Right when NCAA Football 2002 came out I ran to my local videogame store and 
picked this game up.  I was very surprised with the number of copies that 
the store had on it's shelves.  When I came home, I discovered that the 
control was just like Madden 2001's.  I had so much fun playing the first 
game that I couldn't stop playing for five hours straight.  Now that I took 
a break from the game, I have decided to write about how good NCAA Football 
2002 really is.

Graphics: 9/10
The graphics in NCAA Football 2002 are marvelous.  Take Madden 2001's 
graphics, make the players a little taller and more realistic level, add 
about 125 more stadiums, touch up the animation, and bam you have NCAA 
Football 2002.  The only thing that sucks about NCAA Football 2002 is the 
face models and the crowd.  I saw about five guys that look like Steve 
McNair for some strange reason.  The crowd is basically the same as Madden's 
except possibly a little touched up.  Other than that, the graphics are 
great.  The mascots are designed especially realistic and I was amazed that 
the sideline looked as good as it did.  I really give props to EA Sports for 
doing such a good job on the graphics.

Gameplay: 10/10
This is where NCAA Football 2002 blows out its competition.  In this game 
there is a exhibition mode, a season, mode, a practice mode, and a dynasty 
mode.  The Dynasty Mode is where all the fun is.  Pick any team of your 
choice and play through years of football drafting new players, cutting 
players, firing coaches, and seeing your seniors graduate.  You couldn't ask 
for more in a football game!  NCAA Football 2002 plays exactly like Madden 
does so if you like the gameplay in Madden you'll love the gameplay in this 
game.  The only thing that I didn't really like that they changed from 
Madden is the kicking.  The kicking in NCAA Football 2002 takes a while to 
get use to.  I had some trouble kicking my first extra points actually.  
Other than that, gameplay-wise NCAA Football 2002 is great.

Control: 10/10
How much control do you want in a football game?  After playing this game, I 
don't think you could say anything that this game doesn't have.  Hands on 
action on and off the field in NCAA Football 2002.  The control is extremely 
similiar to Madden 2001 so if you are familiar with those controls there is 
no use to read the instruction booklet.  The only thign new that NCAA 
Football 2002 has is the new lateral button which is a great addition to the 
game.  Other than that, passing and running comes natural, and defense takes 
a few games to get use to.  Interceptions are hard to come by and fumbles 
rarely happen.  Games are usually low scoring when playing against the 
computer on Heisman level, and there is practically no slowdown.  Well done 
EA Sports.

Sound: 9/10
I actually really enjoy the sound in NCAA Football 2002.  Not only is there 
3 announcers that make very witty comments in the game, there is actually 
some pretty catchy tunes when you start up the game.  Also, if the game 
isn't televised then the announcers don't show and there is only one PA 
announcer.  If the game is televised on national television expect very 
witty comments and a lot of chatting.  I think that this was an excellent 
idea by EA Sports because it really makes you want to make your team good 
enough to play on television.  I don't see how this game could be better in 
sound, this is one of the best sounding football games on the market.

Overall: 10/10
Go out and buy this game now.  You won't get bored of it for at least six 
months.  If you liked Madden 2001 you'll love this game.  Even if you aren't 
a major college football fan you should still buy this game if you like 
football at all.  If you don't watch football or don't like football, then I 
don't even know why you're reading this review.  Everyone, go out and buy 
this game now!


---------------------------------
24: Codes/Secrets
---------------------------------
Go to Cheatcc.com for all the codes!

Player's names:
The players in the game are modeled after real players, and the programmers 
included most of their names. To hear the announcers call your players' 
names instead of their number, simply change their names in the options 
menu. Select "Roster" and then "Edit player information". Collegiate rosters 
can usually be found on a school's web site or go through a search engine -- 
enter the school name and "football" (for example, Penn State Football). 
Note: Not all of the names will be recognized, but enough to add some 
personality to the game.
Information in this section was contributed by KBoggiano. Touchdown


Celebrations:
Hold one of the following buttons immediately before scoring a touchdown at 
the risk of an unsportsman-like conduct penalty.
Point upwards: Press L1 or R1.
Hold up football: Press R2.
Shake football: Press L2.


High Player Rating
To have higher rating just go to edit player, then move to speed and press 
X.  This will make the rating for that player change to all 99s.  Thanks to 
the numerous people who send this code in.


---------------------------------
25: Glitches
---------------------------------
Like all the other football games out on the marktet, NCAA Football 2002 
does have its share of glitches.  Here are some glitches that I have 
encountered in the game.  If you have any glitches that you would like to 
have posted here, feel free to e-mail me at: DreThug@hotmail.com with the 
glitch provided.

Number 0
Have you heard the announcer say that Number 0 just got the ball?  I've hard 
that with my running back once running the ball and with one of the kick off 
return guys.  The announcer said that #17 and #0 are going to return the 
kick while it was #17 and #34.  I don't know what kind of technical glitch 
was but this is popping up occasionally in my game.

Slowdown
I'm not talking about major slowdown like a lot of people with defective 
games are suffering from.  I'm talking about slowdown after you've had the 
game on for 8 hours straight.  I've seen slowdown after a running play when 
there is some kind of strange weather and when you can see the mascot on the 
field.  Other then that, NCAA Football 2002 has been smooth for me.

Longest Fumble Return When My Guy Ran 1 Yard
My friend actually set my record books with the longest fumble record.  The 
record was 73 yards but it was a mistake when it was put in to the books for 
the first time.  The reason it was a mistake was that I fumbled the ball on 
the 10 yard line, then his player got the ball and fumbled it on the 30 yard 
line, and then another player on his team picked up the ball and ran for a 
touchdown.  It only counted it as a 73 yard fumble.  When I fumbled again in 
the game my friend recovered the ball again and got tackled right on the 
spot.  He got to enter his name though for a 73 yard fumble return again 
which broke his old record of 73 yards before.  Weird.

Returning Kicks In the End Zone
When your kick returner gets a kick in the end zone and brings it out and 
gets tackled on say the 20 yard line does it say that the player ran for a 
long gain of 43 yards?  This happens to me all the time when I'm running out 
of the end zone.  I don't mind this glitch because it actually helps me get 
more return yards then I do.

Passes Caught Out Of Bounds For Touchdowns
I never knew that there was a no foot in the end zone rule for college 
football.  Well, I know there isn't one in real life but it seems like there 
is in this game.  Even if you don't have one foot down you can be credited 
for a touchdown.  The keyword in that sentence is can because it happens 
sometimes.  If you think you don't have one foot down just check out the 
instant replay.  I've seen it happen many times where it was clear that my 
player wasn't in the touchdown zone.

Onside Kick Not Traveling 10 Yards
Half the time you can recover the ball even though it doesn't go 10 yards.  
If you can get it so it works then you will never have to play defense 
because you can always kick the onside kick.

Turning Off 25 Second Play Clock
If you turn off the 25 second play clock you can hold the ball for as long 
as you want.  You can last for 6 seconds on defense before choosing a play.  
This is a very cheap way of playing and shouldn't be an option that you can 
turn off in the game.

Mascots
Have you noticed that you can run through the mascots?  They won't slow you 
down, they won't stop you, and they won't make you change your running 
route.  I've seen this happen with multiple mascots.

Wrong Calls
I saw this happen twice in the same game.  I was one yard from the end zone, 
and ran my FB in for a touchdown. The local announcer said I ran for a loss 
of two yards.  Then, the opposing team got to one yard from the end zone and 
made a short pass for a touchdown. The local announcer said it was a pass 
for a loss of two yards.  This happened to myself plus numerous other 
people.


---------------------------------
26: Red Shirting
---------------------------------
A lot of people e-mail me asking what Red Shirting is.  Red Shirting is a 
very simple procedure that you need to know about.  Red Shirting is signing 
someone as a freshman and making them sit out the first year.  Even though 
they were a freshman and sat out the whole season, the next season they will 
still be considered a freshman.

Now why would this be useful?

This is very useful say if you have a senior quarterback who is putting up 
good numbers.  His back-up is also really good so there's no need to have 
another good player on the team if he's just going to sit out.  If you red 
shirt him, he will play next year and still be a freshman.

Hope this helps.


---------------------------------
27: Is Your Game Defective?
---------------------------------
I've been getting tons of e-mail of people asking me if there game is 
running normal becuase of the following reasons:  Remember, if any of these 
things happen to you when you are playing, promptly return the game to where 
you bought it and get a new version in return.

You know if your game is defective if:
It takes over 30 seconds to load in the initial load up.

You know if your game is defective if:
Your Playstation 2 is constantly scanning throughout the whole game for no 
apparent reason.

You know if your game is defective if:
While scanning, your Playstation 2 makes extremely loud noises that it 
shouldn't be doing.

You know if your game is defective if:
After every play, you can't get right to the playbook, you have to watch the 
little animations.

You know if your game is defective if:
After every play, it takes 5 to 10 seconds to load up the next playbook.

You know if your game is defective if:
After every play, there is severe slowdown which happens all the time.

If this is the case for anyone, return your game.  If you have anymore 
questions feel free to e-mail me at: DreThug@hotmail.com.


---------------------------------
28: Frequently Asked Questions
---------------------------------
There are a lot of questions that a lot of people regularly ask about NCAA 
Football 2002.  Here I have listed those questions and the answers to the 
questions.

Question:
Are there players names in this game?
Answer:
There are not default college player names but you can change the names of 
the players and the announcers will say them correctly.  This is a nice 
feature that a lot of people overlook.

Question:
How many teams can you play with?
Answer:
You can play with 144 teams.  If you think i'm lying count them buddy.

Question:
I heard that this game is similiar to Madden 2001.  Is that true?
Answer:
Yes, this game is very similiar to Madden 2001.  All the controls in the 
game are the same, the graphics are the same (except that the players in 
this game are a little bigger), and the gameplay is basically the same 
except a little tweaked.  If you like Madden 2001, you should love NCAA 
Football 2002.

Question:
Who does the commentary in this game?
Answer:
Three guys: Lee Corso, Kirk Herbstreit, and Brad Nessler.

Question:
I heard that you can see a Madden 2002 clip in the game.  Where at?
Answer:
Yes, you can see a great Madden 2002 clip when you go to the EA section on 
the main screen of the game.

Question:
Is there a franchise mode in this game?
Answer:
Well, it's not called a franchise mode it's called a Dynasty Mode.  The 
Dynasty Mode is the best part of the game.

Question:
Remember the Madden Cards in Madden 2001?  Are there anything like that in 
this game?
Answer:
Yeah, and it's basically the same thing.  You earn points by completing 
passing and things like that.

Question:
What's the hardest difficulty level in this game?
Answer:
It's called Heisman.  It's pretty tough but after a while you can hold your 
own.

Question:
Who endorses NCAA Football 2002?
Answer:
If you looked at the cover of the box you could see that Florida's State 26 
year old quarterback Chris Weinke endorses the game.

Question:
When did this game come out?
Answer:
July 25th 2001

Question:
I'm having some problems with this game.  Where can I find help?
Answer:
If you can't find the answer in this guide feel free to e-mail me at 
DreThug@hotmail.com.


---------------------------------
29: Credits
---------------------------------
This strategy guide was made 99 percent by me.  The only people I would like 
to thank is:

Cheat Code Central (www.cheatcc.com)

For supplying all the codes for this guide.  Without them, there would be no 
codes for the game on this guide.


---------------------------------
30: Ways Of Contacting Me
---------------------------------
There are a few ways that you contact me.

E-mail: DreThug@hotmail.com
If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions send them this way.  I 
will usually respond in 12 hours or less.

AIM: BenjaminCollecta
If you have an urgent thing to say to me feel free to im me.  I'm usually 
always signed online but sometimes I'm not there.  I would like only people 
who want to chat with me about NCAA Football 2002 to im me under this sn.  
If you have any urgent questions then feel free to IM me here.  You might 
not get a response though.

Cell Phone:
If you need to call me for some reason feel free to e-mail me and I'll give 
you my cell phone number.  I'm not going to post it on the guide though 
because many people might bug me by calling it.  This is for hardcore gamers 
who want to chat with me personally.


---------------------------------
31: Before You E-mail Me
---------------------------------
Please don't e-mail me asking stupid questions or I won't respond.  When I 
use to write strategy guides under a different name I would get 100's of 
e-mails asking the same question which I already answered in my FAQ.  Don't 
think I'm being mean if I don't respond to your e-mail, it's just that I 
have many other FAQs and I get tons of e-mail a day.  Also, if you want to 
e-mail me about the game please put in the Subject of the email NCAA 
Football 2002 so I know what game I'm getting e-mailed about.  If I just see 
hey or something like that, I might think it's porn and just delete it.  Now 
if you write an educated e-mail to me, then for sure you will get a 
response.  Thanks.


---------------------------------
32: Legal Information
---------------------------------
Basically, for all the people that want to steal my information and put it 
on their website, FAQ, or anything like that can't.  This document Copyright 
2001 DreThug can not be reproduced in any way without written permission 
from it's author (DreThug).  If you would like to use this strategy guide on 
your website please just send me an e-mail at DreThug@hotmail.com and I will 
most likely give you permission to use this guide at your site.  Remember 
the most updated version of this FAQ can always be found at Cheat Code 
Central (www.cheatcc.com) so if you think I haven't updated this guide in a 
while you might just be looking at an old version of it.  If I find that 
anyone copied any of my information you will be screwed.


---------------------------------
33: Final Thoughts
---------------------------------
NCCA Football 2002 has to be one of my favorite football games ever.  I hope 
that all of you have learned a lot from this strategy guide after reading 
it.  If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions feel free to e-mail 
me at DreThug@hotmail.com and I'll answer them as soon as possible.  I hope 
that you enjoyed NCAA Football 2002 as much as I did and I really hoped you 
enjoyed this guide even more then the game.  Don't worry, next season I will 
have a whole new guide for this game along with all my other guides for all 
the other sports games I do.  Thanks for reading and goodluck!