Different formations lend themselves to various types of plays. For example, most plays that call for rushes up the middle of the field or off the tackle are run out of one of the I or Far/Near formations. Singleback, Pro Form, and Shotgun formations have more complicated, deeper routes.

First, study your team's strengths and stick to using plays that take advantage of them. Madden 2000 replicates many real-life characteristics of NFL teams. So, when playing as the 49ers or Chiefs, stick to the West Coast-style short pass offense. If you're playing as the Falcons or Steelers, you can go for up-the-gut, smashmouth Madden-style football. Other general tips:

• Call different plays to spread the ball around the field.
• Try to get first downs rather than going for the big gain on every play.
• Run plays that utilize the wide side of the field. Do this by flipping your plays.
• Fake snaps may draw the defense offside, but they also might cause a false start by one of your offensive linemen.
• Direct players in motion to set up extra blocking.
• Take advantage of an unprepared defense. If they still have personnel running onto the field, hike the ball.
• Study your opponent's defensive formations. Call plays that best exploit their defensive tendencies. For example, if they like to blitz, throw screen passes to exploit their aggressiveness.
• Know when to hold 'em; know when to walk away; know when to punt.
• Trick plays, such as the Reverse and HB Toss & Pass, should be used sparingly, if at all. They are rarely effective.