EA Sports reveals Madden 12 cover finalists, controversy begins in 3... 2...

EA Sports may soon regret its decision to leave the image of its Madden franchise in the hands of online voters. Yesterday, the publisher announced the two football star finalists vying for a coveted spot on Madden 12's cover; one of which could put EA in an awkward position.

The tournament style promotion, which began with a representative from all 32 NFL teams on March 21st, has resulted in a final face-off between the Cleveland Browns running back Peyton Hillis, and Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Michael Vick. And while the argument can be made that Hillis is a few accomplishments shy of deserving a Madden cover, the real controversy in EA's online tourney is the inclusion of Michael Vick, who was convicted of running a dog fighting ring back in 2007, and has yet to shake off the stink that's followed him since.

Yeah, yeah, he paid for his crimes, stop being such a whiny pansy and all that. Fair enough. The man paid his dues as deemed by society. But even putting the horrific animal abuse aside (not something I ever thought I'd write), there's also the small fact Michael Vick already graced the cover of EA's football series for Madden 2004. If he wins, it will be the first time a player has made a repeat appearance. Surely there are other more deserving players who deserve the honor, no?

The online voting is open until April 25th, after which the winner will be revealed on ESPN's SportsNation on April 27th.

[Source: ESPN Sportsnation via Kotaku]

Apr 19, 2011

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