Of course, no running back is worth his salt without blockers, and now you're empowered to throw them yourself. It sounds more work than fun, but pancaking linemen, cut-blocking blitzers or nullifying defenders is a treat. Still, it takes practice to avoid appalling whiffs that leave your QB exposed, and potentially decapitated. Metaphorically speaking, of course.

One of the true joys of Madden is settling in for a run of mini-games. But there's one factor that's a touch obnoxious: you can't choose what players you compete with. If you engage in the mini-camp you can't do Precision Passing with Leinart, or Pocket Presence with Young. The NFL welcomes in one of the most exciting crops of rookies in years, and you can't use them in the mini-games. Talk about the No Fun League.

Plus, the PSP has more Training Camp mini-games than the PS2 (19 vs. 9). Bummer.

Maybe you don't go to bed each night daydreaming of using Reggie Bush to shred defenses. You can always create a Superstar of your own and try to work him into the Hall of Fame. An extension of last year's mode, this season you don't call the plays - the coach does. This mode is all about playing your role.