FAQ - Guide for NFL 2K2
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Written by: chiefrockab (Brian Daniels)
This FAQ is a (c) of Brian Daniels. This document is for personal use
only. Any reproduction of this document without my expressed written
consent is prohibited. Do not create links directly to this page. If
you would like to use any information within this document in anyway,
contact me via e-mail at [email protected] for consideration.
All Q & A concerning this FAQ will be handled on the message boards of
GameFaq.com.
Version & Updates
1.01 First Submission. Lacks Control & Options. Lacks Money Plays for
approximately half the teams.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION
II. CONTROL & OPTIONS
III. BASIC GAMEPLANS
IV. BASIC OFFENSE
V. OFFENSIVE PHILOSOPHIES
VI. BASIC DEFENSE
VII. DEFENSIVE PHILOSOPHIES
VIII. TEAM RANKINGS & HOT PLAYS
Introduction
Reviews have been mixed on Sega Sports first title for the PS2. Most
love the change of pace NFL 2K2 brought to the genre. Even though the
game is far from perfect, its pluses far outweighs its shortcomings.
There seem to be one constant in every review or preview and that is
fun. Anyone can pick up a Dualshock and jump right into the action (on
Rookie difficulty). The excellent NFL simulation lies in the higher
difficulties. Only the most seasoned NFL2K pro will have success on the
All-Pro difficulty. Here are my strategies and some of the key
offensive and defensive plays that will help in a tight situation. Keep
in mind that the strategies are only a foundation for you to build a
balanced attack. What worked for me may not work for everyone.
NOTE: Football Abbreviations
To save space and time here are a list of abbreviations that are
commonly used in football and are also used throughout this Faq.
C = Offensive Line Center G = Offensive Guard
FB = Fullback QB = Quarter Back
RB = Running Back or Halfback T = Tackle
TE = Tight End WR = Wide Receiver
DL = Defensive Lineman LB = Linebacker
DB = Defensive Back CB = Cornerback
FS = Free Safety SS = Strong Safety
Control and Options
I decided not to include all the control and options for now.
Hopefully, you have the game manual yourself. These will all be
included in a later update but for now, I want to concentrate on actual
gameplay strategies and hints. If a specific move or control is needed,
the control for that move will be given.
Basic Gameplans
Further below there are some strategies and Money Plays for each team
for must have first downs. BUT, this section is devoted to the
exhibition player who is looking to be more competitive right away with
a couple quick hints. These strategies are based on the game being
played on the PRO setting against a computer opponent. The ROOKIE AI is
very easy and a basic understanding of how to run a play will bring
success. On the All-Pro difficulty, mistakes are magnified. These
strategies are still successful on ALL-PRO with practice. Below are a
few of the biggest differences as you step up in difficulty whether
you've decided to take on the PRO game or especially when taking the big
step to ALL-PRO.
1) Any forced passed is usually intercepted if you throw when a) the
receiver hasn't finished his route. b) the receiver is double or
triple covered or c) the QB is still running or trying to avoid a
sack. Watch for the underneath defender if the defense is in a zone.
The defender can easily jump and take the bullet pass out the air.
Practice lobbing the pass over the defender's head. When the
defense is closing in on your QB for a sack do not force the throw.
Roll out as far as you can and throw the ball away (R2).
2) Most 1st down runs are stopped with minimal gains on ALL-PRO. A
single running play will only work 2 to 3 times in a single drive.
Mixing Tosses, ISO, & Spread is your only hope.
3) The punting game becomes very important. On the ROOKIE and after
getting used to PRO, a good player can go the whole game without a
single punt. With ALL-PRO, you will have to punt. Field position is
very important.
4) The CPU opponents have more speed on defense overall. What was an
open receiver before will be within the range of the nearest DB and
LB. After watching the CPU a while, I noticed the defenders move to
the spot where the receiver is suppose to stop before the receiver
completes the route on ALL-PRO. There is still the same amount of
broken tackles but with the extra speed of the CPU defense, more
defenders are around the ball.
NOTE: The computer AI reacts well to a play you try to run over and over
again, especially after Halftime and on 4th downs. Mix up your play
calling between pass and run. Avoid going for long 4th downs. The
computer tends to sends what I call "The Mad Blitzer". It's one
defensive player who reacts like a homing missile who is much harder to
avoid. On All-Pro, these Blitzers will come at any time on any play to
disrupt the timing of your offense.
BASIC OFFENSE
With the introduction of the West Coast Offensive philosophy, NFL
offensive schemes have become extremely complicated. Your basic offense
of 5 linemen, 2 WR, a QB, a RB, a FB, and a TE was commonly used every
play. Now, it seems the teams only use this formation for the first
snap of the game and starting line-ups. The only constant now is the 5
lineman and a QB. The section will explain the basic offensive sets
found in NFL 2K2 and give a brief description of what personnel is used
in each one.
NOTE: The running backs are all shown in the split formation. It's more
common to find the RB's in the I formation. On most occasions, if the
RB's are in the I formation, the formation description will say so.
PRO
The PRO formation is the most common and basic set used in football.
It's also the most flexible and is equally effective for passing plays
as it is for the running game. The PRO set has the two backs split
behind the QB. The running game is known for its huge sweeps and tosses
to the strong side with the TE lead blocking on the play. The passing
game usually relies on the 2 WR and the TE over the middle, but screen
passes to either the FB or RB are also an option. This formation is the
foundation of the West Coast Offense. If you love passing on every
down, this set usually has a good mixture of deep routes and short
passes.
Personnel: 2 WR, 1 TE, 1 FB, 1 HB
WR T G C G T TE WR
QB
RB FB
ACE
The ACE formation is predominately for the run, but with 2 good
receivers and the protection of an extra TE, a good passing attack can
come out of it. The single back can be hard to run out of because of the
lack of a FB to lead but the TE on both sides of the formation make
running to either side easy. Draw plays and tosses are key to the
running game. This formation is good against defenses that blitz off
the corners a lot.
Personnel: 2 WR, 2 TE, 1 RB
WR TE T G C G T TE WR
QB
RB
BUNCH
The BUNCH formation is a passing formation. This set is similar to the
Triple. Both have 2 WR and 1 TE on the strong side of the formation. In
the BUNCH, the TE is on the line of scrimmage in between the two
receivers. This formation is very effective with the QB roll-out. Look
for crossing routs, deep post, and outs. There is usually more than one
person open.
Personnel: 3WR, 1TE, 1 RB
WR T G C G T TE
QB WR WR
RB
DOUBLES
If you are a pocket passer, this is probably your best formation to work
our of. The main change in this set compared to PRO is the 3rd WR. The
DOUBLES substitutes your FB for your #3 WR in the slot.
Personnel: 3 WR, 1 TE, 1 RB
WR T G C G T TE WR
WR QB
RB
EMPTY
Your only option is to pass. This formation is called Empty because of
the empty backfield. You have only the 5 offensive linemen to protect
the QB. With 5 targets lined up at the line of scrimmage, someone is
bound to become open. This is a good long yardage formation.
Personnel: 3 WR, 1 TE, 1 RB
WR T G C G T TE WR
RB QB WR
JOKERS
The Jokers formation is generally for the power running game. Jokers
subs in an extra TE on the strong side instead of the WR. Smash mouth
football is this formation specialty. Good choice for short yardage
running.
Personnel: 1 WR, 2 TE, 2 RB
WR T G C G T TE
QB TE
RB FB
PAIR SLOT
The PAIR SLOT is generally a passing formation. The PAIR in its name
comes from the two pair of WR's and TE's that appear on either side of
the formation. The 2 WR work similar to the TWINS formation, using outs
and posts to confuse the defense, while the 2 TE provide more pass
protection and some run support. This is a well-balanced formation that
can support the passing game as well as the run.
Personnel: 2 WR, 2 TE, 1 RB
WR T G C G T TE
WR QB TE
RB
QUAD
The QUAD is all passing. If you love the deep ball, this is your kind
of formation. The 4 WR are a defensive nightmare. Every route is
usually covered by this formation. There isn't much pass protection but
with all the targets to throw to, someone will probably be open. GO
DEEP!
Personnel: 4 WR, 0 TE, 1 RB
WR T G C G T WR
WR QB WR
RB
SPREAD
The SPREAD is very good formation for a tough defense. This formation
is designed to spread out the defense, making the LB's and DB's of the
opposing defense cover a larger portion of the field. 3 wide receivers
are used to occupy the secondary while 2 RB has easy access to the flat
for screen plays and short routes. The one major problem with this
formation is pass protection and picking up the blitz. With no TE, the
blitz off the corner is wide open, leaving you vulnerable.
Personnel: 3 WR, 0 TE, 2 RB
WR T G C G T WR
QB WR
RB FB
TREY
The TREY is passing. It's almost the same as the BUNCH but has 3 WR
lined up on the strong side with no TE. If you give the WR's time to
run their route, a big play is bound to happen. A good receiving core
and an accurate passer will have the pigskin in the end zone in no time.
Unfortunately only a few teams have enough good wide receivers to take
advantage of the defense.
Personnel: 4WR, 0 TE, 1 RB
WR T G C G T WR WR
QB WR
RB
TRIPLE
The TRIPLE is the TREY with the TE on the end of the line of scrimmage
instead of a WR. This formation is generally for those team who don't
have the 4 good WR needed to run the TREY. Just as dangerous as the
TREY, the TRIPLE formation will also exploit the secondary by
overloading one side of the defense.
Personnel: 3 WR, 1 TE, 1 RB
WR T G C G T TE WR
QB WR
RB
TRIPS
The TRIPS formation is all passing. The 3 WR to one side causes mis-
matches and overloads the defense. There isn't much pass protection but
if the defense does blitz, there is almost always someone open
underneath.
Personnel: 3 WR, 1 TE, 1 RB
WR WR T G C G T TE
WR QB
RB
TWINS
The TWINS combines good run blocking (1 FB and 1 TE) with a good passing
set. You can smash the middle of the defense with run on one play and
then go for the DEEP POST the very next play with the same formation.
This is a good formation if you throw to the TE a lot. The TWINS give a
whole side of the field to just the TE.
Personnel: 2 WR, 1 TE, 2 RB
WR T G C G T TE
WR QB
RB FB
WING
The WING formation is a short yardage formation designed for the run.
Most effective when the RB's are lined up in the I, the extra TE's and
WR help protect against blitzers of the corners. Suprise the Defense
with a pass to the WR if the D finds a way to stop the run.
Personnel: 1 WR, 2 TE, 2 RB
TE T G C G T TE
QB WR
RB FB
FORMATION VARIATIONS
The other formations and sets that are available are variations of the
basic ones listed above. The most common variation is the I set of the
RB's. Putting the backs in the I behind the QB makes following your
fullback lead easier. A team may not have the personnel to run the
formation as they are shown which is why the formation is changed
slightly to compensate. Here are some other variations you'll see.
Strong I or Weak I: The fullback shifts to the strong or weak side to
get closer to the point of attack
Right or Left: In the single back formations, the back is moved to the
right or left to aid in pass protection and also to set up the draw
play.
Tight: Look for a WR to be substituted by a tight end. For instance,
Tight Triple will have 2 TE to the right with just one WR.
Motion: Look for a WR or TE to go in motion or a formation shift.
Shotgun: QB will receive the snap from center in the backfield.
Z - IN: The WR that is usually lined up as a wide-out far right will now
be lined up next to the TE.
FOR EXAMPLE
A Strong I Pro Z - IN will look like this.
WR T G C T G TE
QB WR
FB
RB
AND you won't see a Shotgun I. If the QB is already backfield, there's
no room to have the two RB's in the I.
OFFENSIVE PHILOSOPHIES
Scramble, Scramble, Scramble.
A lot has been said about how great a passing engine to 2K series has
had even since it first showed up on the Dreamcast and the PS2 version
is no exception. If you take the time to learn the timing of the pass
routes and master Maximum Passing, you will be an elite player,
virtually unstoppable. Put in the time, the rewards is great.
1) I wanna score like .....NOW!
I've found the most effective offenses that requires the least amount of
practice to master are the ones with a QB who scrambles well (Gannon in
Oakland, Brooks in New Orleans, and McNabb in Philly, My Top 3). First,
find a passing play with a fade OR post route to the far sideline or an
in route across the field where the receiver runs parallel to the line
of scrimmage.
-//\
//
// ___________
// /___________
|| or ||
|| ||
|| ||
|| ||
|| ||
Then, roll your quarter back (Holding R1 TO SCRAMBLE) in the direction
your receiver will be moving no matter how the play tells you to drop
back (in this case, roll right). Out-run the linemen to the sideline or
until the receiver gets open. Release R1. Set your feet (come to a
complete stop) and let it rip. Not setting your feet will cause a bad
throw most of the time. Also make sure you do not throw the ball as
hard as possible unless you really have to. On a roll-out, bullet
passes are less accurate. Medium strength throws are most effective.
Lobs tend to give defense time to close in on a wide-open player.
Release the pass button once the QB's arm start to move forward.
The roll out does two things. 1) It moves you away from any blitz up the
middle and linemen who will bat the ball down. The computer AI seems to
be set for the QB working in the pocket. Receivers that were covered in
the pocket will be wide open from the new angle your QB is looking at
them. 2) It gives your WR, TE, and RB more time for the deep route. A
very fast WR will be able to outrun the coverage deep or your TE will
have enough time to come all the way across the field after running 10
yards deep.
On the fade route, you WR will go behind the DB and will be far enough
away from the Safety to catch and run for the score. On the crossing
route, as soon as your WR crosses the middle of the field the DB will
drop coverage. Even if you can't see the guy on screen, still throw it
and he will be open. This play is good for TE as well.
If everyone is still covered or you're almost to the sideline, RUN! You
can get close to 10 yards per run. Make sure you run out of bounds or
slide (square). The QB tends to get injured very easily when he's
tackled on a roll-out. Even if you accidentally jump, your QB still
won't get injured but he might fumble.
NOTE: It's very hard to roll out when the defense pick a FAN rush or
blitz from the outside. But when this happens, take your QB straight up
the middle for a nice gain. Don't forget to slide.
NOTE: When scrambling, anytime you are persued by a defender, you can
trick him into diving. When the defender is almost in diving distance
fake like you are going to run up field then drop back again. The
defender will dive on the ground give you some more time (Like in the
NES Temco Bowl, the weave method).
2) If it says "OPTION", it's a good pass.
Option pass plays are all for the most part successful. Look for the
short and deep crossing in route over the middle. The WR or TE will be
open quick if there is a blitz and will continue across the field on a
roll out. If you are in a tight spot, need 5 or 6 yards, try an Option
pass. If you have a fast WR, let him out run the coverage across the
field to become open.
3) TWINS: Strong Flood. A defenses worst nightmare.
Almost every team has at least on play like this in multiple variations.
STRONG TWINS, WEAK TWINS, I TWINS. Look under the formation with both
receivers lined to one side. One receiver will have an OUT route while
the other goes for the POST. Some plays have them crossing. It is rare
for the CPU to cover both receivers for a long period of time. Look for
the POST route to go completely uncovered from time to time. The OUT
route is good for at least 7 yards, even if he's tackled right away.
4) A Tight End is a terrible thing to waste.
Don't forget your TE, especially during the Fantasy Drafts. On some
teams he's your best option. Frank Whycheck in Tennessee, Chad Lewis in
Philadelphia, Shannon Sharpe in Baltimore, and Tony Gonzalez in Kansas
City. They catch like top WR and they hold onto the ball better when
hit after the catch. A great 3rd option on a passing play, the TE seems
to become uncovered and forgotten underneath
5) Power or Finesse
With the insane amount of broken tackles in NFL 2K2, the running game is
much easier than in past 2K games. There are 2 types of runners. You
have Power and Finesse. Power runners are big and strong. Use the stiff
arm or build up speed by rapidly pressing X and run over any would be
tackler. Finesse runners are fast and mobile. Juke and spin your way
to big yardage. Either type you play with, 100+ yards per game is not
unusual, except on the All-Pro difficulty.
6) Run It Up The Gut
Tosses are great! They are the most useful running plays. Your running
back gets beyond the TE box and usually you're 2 DB's away from a TD.
But if your Offensive line allows a defender thru, your RB is taking a 3
to 5 yard loss as soon as he touches the ball, even worse a fumble.
Don't forget the 22 and 24 ISO runs with the Power Backs (Eddie George,
Tyrone Wheatly, Fred Taylor and Duce Staley are a few of the best). If
the defense blitz to the outside, you are two broken tackles away from a
big run from the inside-out and up the sideline once you get pass the
line of scrimmage. It also makes the defense double think an outside
blitz on your QB, giving you more time to pass and making roll-outs
easier. Don't forget to rapidly press the (X) button. It's more
effective with a power runner than the juke or spin and increase your
chances of break the tackle.
7) Maximum Passing: An Unbelievable Touch of Realism
Non 2K2 players always ask what Maximum Passing is. It is only the most
innovative and realistic feature ever in the history of videogame
sports. I may be a little dramatic but Maximum Passing is ground-
breaking. Maximum Passing always you to alter the trajectory of the
pass to a wide receiver. Sounds simple but gameplay-wise, it takes
simulating the play of the QB to the next level. Without the option,
the pass is aimed at the numbers of the receiver. Typically, this is
the easiest spot for a completion. It's also right in the range of the
defender. Maximum Passing allows you to lead your receiver away from
the defender. Throw the pass high and away from the D. If the receiver
is in traffic throw it low to avoid the big hit making the pass to be
broken up. PRACTICE! The Maximum passing is a more sensitive than in
past games. If you're getting too many incompletions and interceptions,
try to ease up on the controls. Also, make sure your QB starts the pass
animation before you begin to throw. If you don't he'll start to roll-
out or scramble before the pass. This might account for most of your
errand passes. Armchair pocket QB's MUST get used to using Maximum
Passing otherwise you'll miss half of the fun!
BASIC DEFENSE
You got three parts to the defense.
1) The defensive linemen. 3 or 4 big guys on the line of scrimmage.
These guys are accountable for stopping the run and putting pressure on
the QB.
2) The linebackers (LB). Provide support of your lineman against the
run, provide extra pressure on the QB when asked to blitz and provide
underneath pass protection.
3) The secondary or defensive backs (DB's) covers wide receiver and deep
routes. 2nd line of defense against the run.
NOTE: In the actual NFL, DB's are further broken down into Cornerback
and Safety. The Cornerback (CB) lines up across from the receiver and
provides the man-to-man coverage. The other DB's are safeties (1 Free
and 1 Strong). The Free Safety is responsible for covering the middle
of the field deep and Strong Safety helps to stop the RB should he get
past the LB's. Strong Safeties are known for making the big hits on the
slants and those medium range passes.
DEFENSIVE SETS
The most basic defensive formation is the 4-3. This means you have 4
linemen (2 DE and 2 DT) and 3 linebackers (Strong Outside, Weak Outside,
Middle). Most of the defenses in the NFL run this defense.
Some teams run a 3-4 defense. This means you have only 3 linemen (2 DE
and 1 Center) and 4 linebackers (2 outside, 2 inside).
In the Nickel defense, one of your linebackers are substituted for a
defensive back (DB) to provide better pass coverage. So you have 4
linemen, 2 LB, and 5 DB's.
In a 3-4 defense, the Nickel becomes Nickel ODD. You have 3 linemen, 3
LB, and 5 DB.
Dime takes it a step further and subs another LB for a DB. Resulting in
4 linemen, 1 LB, 6 DB.
In the 3-4, the Dime is called Dime ODD. Its 3 Linemen, 2 LB, and 6 DB.
Prevent takes out all LB's and puts in 7 DB for maximum pass protection.
In the 3-4, the Prevent ODD uses one LB as the 4th lineman.
Goal Line is for short yardage and goaline stands. It has 5 linemen, 4
LB's and 2 DB.
DEFENSIVE PHILOSOPHIES
Defense. The right play at the right time.
Defense is a guessing game but there are some key plays that are
effective when called at the right time. It reminds me of the Original
Tecmo Bowl (Not Super). If you call the right play the offense is
powerless. If you call a run play against a pass you got burnt.
Unfortunately, some team just can't play defense! With a bad defense,
there are more broken tackles, the linemen are pushed around like dolls,
and your DB's can't catch a pass if it hit them right in the numbers.
Avoid bad defensive teams at all cost. Indianapolis and Minnesota are
about the only teams with a strong enough offense to overcome the paper-
thin defense.
RUN: Nickel and Dime; Not just pass D anymore.
Your linebackers are key to stopping the Run. Having a Pro Bowler like
Ray Lewis or Zack Thomas as Middle Linebacker really helps. Your average
LB is not fast enough to cover the whole field and do not come of a
block soon enough to be effective. Against a human opponent or an All-
PRO opponent, you will need two hits very close together to bring the
runner down. One to initially hit and break the runners stride and the
2nd to actually bring the runner down. That's one reason you might want
to use the Nickel and Dime defense to stop the run if you have a weak
defensive team. The extra speed of the DB's replacing the LB's will
have more tacklers around the ball. This will cut down on the long
breakaway runs.
To play the most effective defense, you should start by learning to
close the running wholes by pushing the offensive line in the direction
of the run. At the snap, get the quick burst of speed by tapping X.
Watch the RB and move the same direction he's going. Start charging
your arrow by pressing and holding the X button. When the RB is at the
line of scrimmage, hit R1 to come off the block and make the hit. It's
up to you to get the initial hit on or at least close the whole that the
RB is trying to hit with the lineman. If you need more help, call a
Blast play (Middle, Strong, or Weak) to the spot of the whole. With the
blast, the linebacker will come in to clean-up. If you prefer to
control the LB yourself, bring the blitzer as close to the line of
scrimmage as possible. For faster running backs or against the Toss, in
the same formation call the Weak or Strong Crash depending on what side
your opponents prefers to run. The blitzing DB will not bring the
runner down by his self but he will delay him long enough for the
pursuit of lineman and linebackers to catch up. The Goal Line defense
can be used in the middle of the field to provide a quick stop when you
are sure that a run is coming. BEWARE. If the running back gets to the
outside, there is not much between him and the end zone. If the offense
drops back to pass, the extra lineman and linebackers at the line of
scrimmage should get to the QB faster than the 4-3. If he gets the pass
off, more than lightly it will be a big gain, there is only single
coverage and no one deep. Also avoid the All Blitz. It causes the same
problems as the Goal-line defense.
PASS: Nickel and Dime. Prevent is soft.
Pressure on the QB is key. If you give the QB time to throw it
when he wants to, it's gonna be a long frustrating day. The earlier he
throw it, the less accurate the pass. Sacks by the defensive are very
hard to come by. The QB seems to get the ball away right before he's
brought down for the sack. Just forcing the QB to throw the ball early
might be enough. Pressure on the passer usually results in an
incomplete pass or an interception. You can blitz a linebacker.
Generally, a blitz by a DB is not effective because of the distance the
player has to come and DB's tend to stay blocked to long. Not only that
it leaves a spot for a quick pass for the QB to dump off to. Take
control of the DB, and bring the player closer to the QB if you have to
use the DB. But Linebackers through the middle, and directly off the
ends get to the QB in a hurry and can even tip the ball at the line of
scrimmage against pocket passers. If the LB is picked up by the running
back in pass protection, they have enough strength to come off the block
and still disrupt the passer. Try to avoid the Prevent defense, it is
effective against the pass but if your opponent suprises you with a RUN
it could become a huge gain. A 10 to 15 yard pass is common against the
Prevent. Prevent is design to stop big gains in the passing game by
allow short underneath passes in bounds. Meaning the middle of the
field is usually open. Practice the defensive lineman moves and get in
the QB's face without a blitz and only 4 down linemen so the rest of the
defense can cover the pass. You'll need a top player like a Strahan,
Sapp, or Kearse but it's worth the effort. Take on of the DE. Move him
to the outside of the last offensive player of the offensive line. Use
the speed burst straight up the field. If the blocker drops straight
back with you, cut to the inside in front of the defender and go for the
QB. If the blocker is slow to drop back, go around the outside and the
QB will drop back right into your arms.
NOTE: Normal or Base, Gap Left and Gap Right should be the D-Line
formations you mainly use. They provide a good pass rush and still help
contain the run. Use the Gap Left and Gap Right to pin the QB or RB
between hash mark and the nearest sideline. Use the FAN against
scrambling QB's and against the TOSS. It closes the corner down and
contains the runner inside. Unfortunately, it leaves the middle of the
line wide open for the run and leave the passing lanes clear for the QB.
To compliment the pressure on the QB, the 3 BUZZ package (only certain
defenses have this) is very good. It's also a good play to call when an
offense tries to spread the field. There are 2 DB's on each of the
outside routes and 2 LB in the Nickel and 1 LB, 1 DB in the Dime lurking
in the middle to stick receivers trying quick slants or crossing routes.
A few team do have a 4-3 3 BUZZ which also works depending on personnel.
Only your LB's provide the underneath cover in this formation. The
Sting 2 defense is good at causing pressure while maintaining coverage
on the WR.
NOTE: The CPU opponent will go for it on 4th Down on some bad occasions.
To keep from wasting a timeout, use the automatic play call feature to
see if the CPU intends to punt or not. When the play call screen
appears, press X button without moving the analog stick. The automatic
play will be a normal defense if the opposition is gonna try and go for
it. It will give you a punt return if they plan to punt.
NOTE: Defense is all about experimenting with plays and finding their
strength and weakness. There is not a "great" defensive play that cover
both pass and run but if you can anticipate what your opponent is going
to do, you can stop them enough times to force a fourth down or cause
turnovers. If a play doesn't work the 1st time you use it, go back to
it in a different situation (a different down or a different yard-to-
go).
TEAM RANKINGS & HOT PLAYS
The basic strategies above will have you dominating computer opponents
and undefeated seasons on Pro in no time. To get a handle on the All-
Pro setting and to cause serious damage to a good human opponent, here
are some specific offensive plays for each team to use.
The NFL 2K2 Rankings are based on the default ranking that are given to
each team in the game. These rankings are shown at the Exhibition's
Team Select Screen. A = Great to E = 1A High School Football. For a
further breakdown of how the grades were decided look below.
Chief's Ranks are my ranking of each team in a few more categories. I
prefer a strong defense, scrambling QB's, and a running game. My
ranking might show my preferences.
NOTE: Reading Hot Plays
The HOT PLAYS are written in a specific way so finding where the hot
plays are will be easier. The first Page # is the page of the playbook
the play is located. When you press L1 or R1 while finding a play, the
playbook page number is shown in the top left corner (ex, 2/6 would be
Page 2). Next is the formation name. These names are shown at the
bottom of the screen. Then you have the play name. Some formations have
multiple sheets to look through but it should be fairly easy to find the
play. Last is the play's target. These targets are different from the
primary receiver whose route is shown in red. These targets are the
receivers that I've found to be wide open against a zone defense and a
good target against a man to man D. If the receiver is not open right
away scramble with your QB until he gets open.
TEAMS
49ers
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: A
Defense: D
Overall: C
Chief's Ranks:
OVERALL: B
Offense: B
QB: B
RB: C
WR/TE: B
Defense: D
HOT PLAYS:
Page 3/Shotgun Trip Left
153 Bootleg Wheel
Target: #81 Owens
Page 5/Double H Motion
152 Bootleg 2 Post
Target: #81 Owens
BEARS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: C
Defense: D
Overall: D
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: C
Offense: C
QB: D
RB: B
WR/TE: C
Defense: C
HOT PLAYS:
RUN
Page 4/Bunch
56 Stretch
PASS
Page 4/Bunch
50 Y OUT
Target: #88 Robinson
*Alternate between the Stretch run and Y Out pass on Human opponents.
They are both out of the Bunch formation and can cause confusion.
Page 2/Shotgun Triple
50 A Under
Target: #88 underneath but #86 may open up deep left.
BENGALS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: C
Defense: E
Overall: D
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: E
Offense: D
QB: D
RB: A
WR/TE: D
Defense: E
HOT PLAYS:
OFFENSE
Page 4/I Twins
122 Z OUT
Target: #80 Warrick
Page 2/Tight Triple
152 Y/T Option
Target: Two Tight Ends. Choose either direction.
BILLS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: C
Defense: C
Overall: C
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: D
Offense: D
QB: D
RB: D
WR/TE: C
Defense: D
HOT PLAYS:
Page 1/Doubles
50 X DIG
Target: #89 Black
Page 3/Split Spread
50 X/Z OUT
Target: #81 Price
Page 4/Triple H-Motion
132 T Option
Target: #85 Riemersma
BRONCOS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: A
Defense: C
Overall: B
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: B
Offense: B
QB: B
RB: B
WR/TE: A
Defense: C
HOT PLAYS:
Page 1/Trips
50 Z Option
Target: #80 Smith
Page 5/Triples
50 Strong Flood
Target: #80 Smith (Deep)
Page 2/Shotgun Trey
152 T Cross
Target: #87 McCaffrey
BROWNS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: E
Defense: D
Overall: D
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: E
Offense: E
QB: D
RB: E
WR/TE: E
Defense: E
HOT PLAYS:
Page 3/Weak I Twins
50 F Wheel
Target: #82 Johnson
Page 4/ACE
153 Bootleg Flat
Target: #81 Morgan & #82 Dudley
BUCCANEERS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: B
Defense: A
Overall: A
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: A
Offense: B
QB: C
RB: A
WR/TE: A
Defense: A
HOT PLAYS:
Page 1/I Twins
122 X Dig/Z Corner
Target: #81 Green or #19 Johnson (Deep)
Page 6/Shotgun Trey Left
50 Power Flood
Target: #19 Johnson
Page 2/Triple
H Swing Strong
Target: #81 Green
CARDINALS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: D
Defense: E
Overall: E
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: E
Offense: E
QB: D
RB: E
WR/TE: D
Defense: E
HOT PLAYS:
Page 2/Shotgun Split Spread
50 X/Z Out
Target: #89 Boston
Page 3/Triple
50 T Cross
Target: #81 Sanders
CHARGERS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: C
Defense: B
Overall: C
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: C
Offense: C
QB: C
RB: C
WR/TE: C
Defense: B
HOT PLAYS
Page 2/Ace Trips
153 Bootleg Z Out
Target: #81 Graham
Page 4/Triple
50 T Corner
Target: #81 Graham
CHIEFS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: C
Defense: C
Overall: C
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: E
Offense: D
QB: C
RB: D
WR/TE: C
Defense: E
HOT PLAYS
Page 2/I Spread
122 Z Dig
Target: #82 Alexander (deep) or #87 Thomas
Page 3/Pair Slot Left
50 X Under
Target: #82 Alexander
COLTS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: A
Defense: D
Overall: B
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: B
Offense: A
QB: A
RB: A
WR/TE: A
Defense: E
HOT PLAYS
Page 2/Shotgun Quads Z-IN
50 Z Under
Target: #88 Harrison
Page 2/Trips
154 Strong Flood
Target: #86 Pathon (deep) or #88 Harrison
Page 3/Shotgun Ace Trips
50 X/Z Out
Target: #86 Pathon
COWBOYS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: D
Defense: E
Overall: E
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: D
Offense: C
QB: C
RB: C
WR/TE: D
Defense: E
HOT PLAYS
Page 1/I Spread
122 A Out
Target: #84 Galloway
Page 3/Pair Slot
152 Z Cross
Target: #84 Galloway (deep)or #82 Whalen
Page 3/Bunch
152 Y Corner
Target: #81 Ismail
DOLPHINS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: D
Defense: A
Overall: B
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: B
Offense: D
QB: D
RB: E
WR/TE: D
Defense: A
HOT PLAYS:
Page 5/Shotgun Trey Left
50 Strong Flood
Target: #86 Gadsden
Page 2/Shotgun Split Spread
50 A/Z Cross
Target: #80 McKnight
EAGLES
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: B
Defense: B
Overall: B
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: A
Offense: A
QB: A
RB: A
WR/TE: C
Defense: A
HOT PLAYS:
Page 4/Quads
50 Stop/Corner
#87 Pinkstom or #80 Thrash
Page 1/Pro
122 T Option
#89 Lewis
FALCONS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: E
Defense: D
Overall: E
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: D
Offense: B (with Vick at QB), D (with Chandler)
QB: A(Vick), C(Chandler)
RB: B
WR/TE: C
Defense: D
*Global Substitute Michael Vick for Chirs Chandler. The offense is
improved greatly with Vick's mobility.
HOT PLAYS:
Page 1/Quads
50 Stop/Corner
Target: #84 Jefferson or #81 Mathis
Page 2/Split Spread Z-IN
50 Z Cross
Target: #80 Martin
Page 5/Trips
152 Bootleg T Out
Target: #81 Mathis
GIANTS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: C
Defense: A
Overall: A
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: B
Offense: D
QB: D
RB: C
WR/TE: C
Defense: A
HOT PLAYS:
Page 1/Weak I Twins
122 F Wheel
Target: #88 Hilliard
Page /Bunch Trips
50 Z Option
Target: #88 Hilliard
JAGUARS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: A
Defense: B
Overall: B
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: B
Offense: A
QB: B
RB: A
WR/TE: B
Defense: C
HOT PLAYS:
Page 5/Weak I Twins
122 X Out
Target: #87 McCardell (deep) or #82 Smith
Page 2/Shotgun Trey Left
50 Y/A Out
Target: #82 Smith or #80 Brady
Page /Weak I Pro
124 Z Post
Target: #80 Brady
JETS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: B
Defense: C
Overall: C
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: C
Offense: C
QB: C
RB: B
WR/TE: D
Defense: C
HOT PLAYS:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
LIONS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: D
Defense: B
Overall: C
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: D
Offense: C
QB: D
RB: C
WR/TE: C
Defense: D
HOT PLAYS:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
PACKERS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: A
Defense: C
Overall: B
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: C
Offense: A
QB: A
RB: B
WR/TE: A
Defense: C
HOT PLAYS:
Page 2/Triple
50 Overload
Target: #84 Schroeder
Page 3/Shotgun Trey
50 Over Flood
Target: #86 Freeman
Page /Split Spread
50 Strong Flood
Target: #86 Freeman
PANTHERS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: D
Defense: E
Overall: E
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: E
Offense: E
QB: E
RB: D
WR/TE: C
Defense: E
HOT PLAYS:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
PATRIOTS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: E
Defense: C
Overall: D
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: D
Offense: D
QB: C
RB: C
WR/TE: D
Defense: C
HOT PLAYS:
Page 1/Quads Right
50 Strong Flood
Target: #80 Brown(deep) or #87 Emanuel
Page 4/Patriots Trey Left
50 Strong Flood
Target: #80 Brown or #81 Johnson
Page /Split Spread Z-IN
50 Pewter Flood
Target: #80 Brown
RAIDERS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: A
Defense: A
Overall: A
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: A
Offense: A
QB: A
RB: A
WR/TE: A
Defense: B
HOT PLAYS:
Page 2/Ace Trips
50 Z Cross
#81 Brown (will catch it deep) OR #80 Rice
Page 5/Quads
152 Z Under
#81 Brown (deep right, lob over LB)
RAMS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: A
Defense: C
Overall: A
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: A
Offense: A
QB: A
RB: B
WR/TE: A
Defense: B
HOT PLAYS:
Page 1/Quads Left
50 Stop/Corner
Target: #88 Holt or #80 Bruce
Page 4/Bunch Left
50 A Cross
Target: #80 Bruce
Page 2/Quads
152 X/Z Out
Target: #80(deep) or #87 Proehl
RAVENS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: B
Defense: A
Overall: A
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: A
Offense: B
QB: B
RB: C
WR/TE: B
Defense: A
HOT PLAYS:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
REDSKINS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: D
Defense: E
Overall: D
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: C
Offense: C
QB: C
RB: A
WR/TE: C
Defense: D
HOT PLAYS:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
SAINTS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: A
Defense: B
Overall: B
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: A
Offense: A
QB: A
RB: A
WR/TE: A
Defense: A
HOT PLAYS:
Page 1/Double
50 T Option
#87 Horn (deep) or #34 Williams underneath
Page 4/Shotgun Quads Right
50 Stop/Corner
#88 Jackson
SEAHAWKS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: D
Defense: B
Overall: D
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: D
Offense: C
QB: D
RB: C
WR/TE: D
Defense: C
HOT PLAYS:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
STEELERS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: E
Defense: C
Overall: D
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: C
Offense: C
QB: B
RB: C
WR/TE: C
Defense: C
HOT PLAYS:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
Page /
Target:
TITANS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: B
Defense: A
Overall: A
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: A
Offense: A
QB: B
RB: A
WR/TE: A
Defense: A
HOT PLAYS:
Page 2/Weak I Twins
122 Strong Flood
#85 Dyson (deep), #81 Sanders (7 or 8 yrds), #89 Whycheck (deep middle)
Page 2/Ace Trips
50 Power Flood
#89 Whycheck, #81 Sanders
VIKINGS
NFL 2K2 Rankings:
Offense: A
Defense: D
Overall: B
Chief Rank:
OVERALL: B
Offense: A
QB: A
RB: C
WR/TE: A
Defense: C
HOT PLAYS:
Page 2/Split Twins
50 X Out
Target: #84 Moss
Page 6/Shotgun Trey
50 A Corner
Target: #80 Carter
Page 3/Ace Trips
H Screen Strong
Target: #84 Moss
WHERE DID THE GRADES COME FROM?
The NFL 2K2 ranking are misleading in that it uses a 100 point scale but
the lowest ranking of the 31 real football team is a 71. To come up
with the grade scale, I placed all the teams in order of the scores for
each categories form greatest to least. Then I separated the team as
evenly as possible into each letter group. If 2 or more teams had the
same ranking, they all were placed in the same group which cause some
unbalanced group (8 teams have a B OVERALL with only 4 E's). The only
difference between some grades are only one point. If your think a
certain team should be a single grade higher, more than likely they
probably are.
NFL 2K2 RANKINGS
OFFENSE
A
Rams 98 Colts 96 Raiders 94 Vikings 91 49ers 88
Broncos 88 Jaguars 88 Packers 88 Saints 88
B
Eagles 87 Titans 87 Buccaneers 86 Jets 86 Ravens 86
C
Giants 84 Bills 83 Chiefs 83 Bengals 82 Bears 80
Chargers 80
D
Lions 79 Redskins 79 Cardinals 78 Panthers 78
Cowboys 77 Dolphins 77 Seahawks 77
E
Browns 76 Steelers 75 Patriots 74 Falcons 73
DEFENSE
A
Ravens 100 Buccaneers 96 Dolphins 94 Giants 92 Titans
92 Raiders 89
B
Eagles 88 Saints 87 Chargers 86 Jaguars 85 Lions 85
Seahawks 85
C
Packers 84 Steelers 84 Bills 83 Jets 83 Rams 83
Broncos 82 Chiefs 82 Patriots 82
D
49ers 80 Bears 79 Colts 78 Falcons 78 Vikings 78
Browns 78
E
Redskins 77 Cowboys 76 Cardinals 73 Bengals 72
Panthers 71
OVERALL
A
Ravens 93 Raiders 92 Buccaneers 91 Rams 90 Titans 90
Giants 88
B
Colts 87 Eagles 87 Jaguars 87 Saints 87 Packers 86
Broncos 85 Dolphins 85 Vikings 85
C
49ers 84 Jets 84 Chargers 83 Bills 82 Chargers 83
Chiefs 82 Lions 82
D
Seahawks 81 Steelers 80 Bears 79 Patriots 78 Redskins
78 Bengals 77 Browns 77
E
Cardinals 76 Cowboys 76 Falcons 75 Panthers 75
