"0540300" - QUARTER FINAL
"0150361" - SEMI FINAL
"0550361" - SUPER BOWL FINAL
If you go to the password screen and type in the first three numbers as 665, and then any other numbers after that, you will be in the final game. The number you type in after 665 determines the team you play. An example code is 6657657.
Utilise audibles as much as possible. Fool the computer into thinking you're attempting a long bomb (Hands and Shotgun and then choose the teams best running audible before the snap). The same can be done with passing plays. Set a formation and fool the computer into thinking that you're going for a running play (Big and Goalline), when at the line of scrimmage, choose the teams passing audible once more.
If you're too far away for a field goal, when on a 4th down, go for a fake punt. Fake field goals are also pretty useful in a tight spot, but only as a last resort. When running with the ball, run up field at an angle then, when a defender comes towards you, quickly change direction when he dives at your feet. Hold down the firebutton and you'll have the best chance of shaking the tackle.
When playing defence, select a good strong formation. Manoeuvre a player from the centre zone to the line of scrimmage, and then into a gap between the two men, pushing them along the line of scrimmage. This often upsets the offensive line and you can get through to sack the quarterback. Always try to strip the ball from the offensive team if there are more than two of your defensive players around. You should be able to take possession. Also, when you're running with the ball and there's no way around a defender, try spinning around to throw him off track.
When playing the computer in defence mode and it chooses a running play, don't attempt to tackle the ball carrier. Instead, run in front of him and he'll try to run around you. Block his change of direction and he will run backwards trying to get past. Keep this up and you will force him right back to regain lost yardage.
Always watch the game clock. A lot of people always forget about it, and timing that all-important last scoring play can make the difference between a win and a loss. When passing, concentrate on the receiver windows as well. Choose the player who is free or ahead of the defensive players. By watching the distance meters you can tell who is in the best position to receive your pass.
Hands, Shotgun, Deep Outs and Post Up are all very effective offensive plays and rate amongst the best to use. On the defensive front try 4-3 Read and Wide Zone 2. Anyone who can take Atlanta to the Super Sunday is a great player, but if you want a real challenge try to get over 100 points against a computer-controlled Madden team, then you're an all-star.
Another tip for the game is that sometimes you can get the ball back when kicking off. When the kicking meter is on the screen, put the direction full to the right with no power at all. Cincinnati, Kansas, All Madden and Minnesota can get the ball back all the time.