Speaking of Frank Caliendo, John Madden doesn't believe in the "Madden Curse."
The former coach/color commentator/video-game icon joked to the Detroit Free Press that he never once pulled a hamstring, despite being featured on the cover several times over the years.
Top 10 QB's in Madden
The quarterback rankings for " Madden NFL 13" are out. Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers leads the way. But see which virtual Manning ranks higher. **More ...**
Madden pulled his big ol' cruiser into Detroit Lions training camp on Thursday. Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson graces the cover of "Madden NFL 13," set to be released later this month.
While we're here, let's revisit the past five "Madden" cover boys (hat tip to SI.com):
2008 - Vince Young: The quarterback followed up his promising rookie season with a nine-touchdown, 17-interception dud. Now an understudy who rents an apartment in Buffalo.
2009 - Brett Farve: The Ol'
Gunslinger
Offensive Coordinator was traded to the New York Jets and saw a promising season come apart after tearing his biceps tendon. Jenn Sterger was also in the mix.
2010 - Troy Polamalu & Larry Fitzgerald: Polamalu injured his knee in Week 1 and played just five games all season. Fitzgerald is unstoppable. Curses, Kolbs and Skeltons be damned.
2011 - Drew Brees: The New Orleans Saints star remained a stud, although he did throw a career-high 22 interceptions and lost to a 7-9 team in the playoffs.
2012 - Peyton Hillis: This was less a jinx situation and more a shining example why the "Madden" cover should never be settled by popular vote. Let's just pretend this never happened, OK?
