Our founder TNT713, embarked on his journey to becoming a prominent figure in the Madden NFL gaming world after a particularly humbling experience during his first online game in November 2002. With a prior reputation as a solid Madden player among his friends, TNT713 was taken aback by a crushing 56-3 loss against an opponent employing unconventional tactics. However, instead of being discouraged, this experience ignited a passion in him to improve and dive deeper into the Madden community.
TNT713, known as Timothy Turner, had a dedicated vision that led to the founding of MaddenUniversity.com. Our platform has been a significant resource for Madden players since 2003. His influence extended beyond his website; TNT713 has played a pivotal role in shaping the Madden NFL series through his direct feedback and suggestions to EA Sports. Notably, his input was instrumental in making the controversial QB Vision feature optional in Madden NFL 2007, leading to its eventual removal in Madden NFL 2009. Additionally, a crucial change he proposed in 2012 regarding possession rules during turnovers was implemented in Madden NFL 15, bringing the game closer to the real NFL experience. This change addressed a long-standing issue where defenders were awarded possession before both feet were in bounds, leading to more realistic and fair gameplay.
About the Founder: TNT713
TNT713, the driving force behind MaddenUniversity.com, has always had an insatiable passion for both football and video games. Growing up, football was more than just a pastime—it was a way of life. When he discovered the Madden NFL series, TNT713 quickly recognized that this was more than just a game; it was a platform where his love for strategy, competition, and the sport could merge into one.
Since John Madden Football debuted on the Sega Genesis, TNT713 found himself spending countless hours not only playing Madden, making friends, and also analyzing and developing strategies to outwit his opponents. When Madden NFL 2003 took the game online, TNT saw the potential for growth, and imagined a place where players could share ideas, learn from each other, and talk a little trash. Recognizing a gap in the Madden community for in-depth strategies and a place to connect, TNT713 founded and launched MaddenUniversity.com on the release of Madden NFL 2004.
Building MaddenUniversity.com
MaddenUniversity.com was born out of TNT713’s dedication to elevating the game of Madden NFL by providing a central hub for players to improve their skills, discuss strategies, and compete at a higher level. His vision was simple yet profound: create a community where both casual players and hardcore competitors, often prohibited from cross communication on other websites, could come together to learn, grow, and dominate.
TNT's background in sports strategy goes back to drawing plays in the dirt. Using his understanding of the football, Madden, and the most common challenges competitors on the onlin landscape faced, TNT713 filled the site with valuable content, including offensive and defensive strategies, game-planning advice, and insights on how to make smarter decisions on the virtual field. The site quickly became a go-to resource for players looking to step up their Madden skills.
Impacting the Game: The Power of Suggestions
TNT713's influence didn’t stop at building a community. As a passionate member of the Madden community, he has actively contributed to the evolution of the game itself. Since as early as Madden NFL 2009, his feedback and suggestions have been instrumental in driving changes and improvements to the Madden series.
The controversy surrounding QB Vision's debut as a required feature for Ranked Online games in Madden NFL 2006 game TNT713 an opportunity to help shape the game's history. As a vocal member of the Madden community, he persuaded EA Sports to allow players the option of using QB Vision as their passing interface Madden NFL 2007. In response to widespread player feedback, the lack of popularity of QB Vision ultimately led EA to remove the feature completely in Madden NFL 2009. The impact TNT713 has had on the game’s evolution and his contributions ensured that player preferences are heard and cemented his legacy as a driving force behind the scenes of Madden NFL.
In 2012, TNT713 identified a significant issue with how Madden NFL handled changes of possession, particularly regarding interceptions and fumbles near the sidelines that took EA two development cycles to correct. Prior to Madden NFL 15, screens flipped when a defender had both hands on the ball. Defenders were awarded possession before both feet were in bounds, resulting in dropped passes if one or neither foot was set to land within the field of play. This was particularly problematic near the sidelines, where defenders would always drop potential interceptions, negating the turnover threat to the offense. TNT713’s feedback led to a crucial change that required both feet to be in bounds before awarding possession, properly respecting NFL rules. Implementation enhanced the game’s realism and strategic depth.
Through his participation in EA Community Day and various online forums, TNT713 has been a voice for the players, advocating for more realistic gameplay, balanced mechanics, and features that enhance the overall experience. His suggestions have led to significant updates, helping shape the Madden NFL series into what it is today.
A Legacy of Excellence
TNT713’s journey from a passionate player to a community leader and influencer is a testament to his love for the game and his commitment to helping others succeed. MaddenUniversity.com stands as a symbol of that commitment, offering a treasure trove of knowledge, strategies, and a community spirit that resonates with Madden fans worldwide.
Today, MaddenUniversity.com continues to be a beacon for players who refuse to settle for mediocrity—players who, like TNT713, hate to lose and refuse to quit. Under his leadership, the site remains dedicated to fostering growth, competition, and a love for the game that has made the Madden NFL series a staple of sports gaming.
