I find it interesting how the players get so wrapped up in these various lists and rankings, especially the Madden ratings. Why are the rankings of a video game such a big deal when we all know how good they are in, you know, the actual games that count? – Roger Kendricks/San Diego, CA
Nick Eatman: I think it's normal for players to take that stuff personal. Think about it – what other ratings are out there regarding NFL players? Sure, there's the Pro Bowl and All-Pro, but that's after the season. The Madden ratings are globally-recognized and players want to be respected and appreciated, especially knowing how popular the game has become. Because even though these players have no idea the people that are ultimately giving them the rating, they know how many gamers are out there and actually believe this guy is an "87" or a "99" or whatever number is associated with them. I think you and I would act the same way if there was some arbitrary ranking system out there about the way we did our job. Personally, I don't get into the Madden ratings, but I just don't know how it would be humanly possible not to care about a rating system about them.
Kurt: I admit it does seem kind of crazy, but make no mistake, players do take note when certain rankings come out, and particularly so when the Madden Ratings are released. You probably saw where Micah Parsons took to social media, asking fans to call the Madden Ratings hotline to help him improve his standing. Mind you, he is already sitting at 98, tied for the highest mark among edge rushers, but he wants in that exclusive 99 club. Why do they care? Because these guys take competitiveness to another level … and not just on the field. I once saw a group of NHL hockey teammates standing outside a bus, waiting until it was time to load up. Some of them decided to play that old game where you see who can flick a quarter closest to a wall without actually hitting it, and before you know it, everyone around is cheering, jeering and generally acting like this is some kind of do-or-die playoff showdown. It was some silly kids' game, but they were out to win (and having a great time doing so). These elite athletes are just built different. Everything is a competition. Whether they're facing their rivals on the real field or in the video version, they want to be the best. Which makes it all the more entertaining for the rest of us.
