Florio, Simms discuss love of football video games

March 3, 2026 - 19:37

The passion for football doesn't end when the stadium lights dim. For many, including prominent analysts Mike Florio and Chris Simms, that love translates directly to the virtual playing field. In a recent discussion, the pair dove into their long-standing affection for football video games, tracing their fandom back to the pixelated classics.

Both Florio and Simms recounted formative experiences with early titles, highlighting the groundbreaking "Joe Montana Football" as a key entry point. The conversation naturally progressed to the enduring legacy of the "Madden NFL" series, which has dominated the sports gaming landscape for decades. They reflected on the evolution of the games, from simpler arcade-style gameplay to the complex, simulation-style experiences of today that mirror the strategic depth of the real sport.

Their dialogue underscored how these games served not only as entertainment but also as a deeper connection to football itself. For former players like Simms and lifelong enthusiasts like Florio, video games offered another avenue to engage with the strategy, competition, and camaraderie of the sport. This shared history with digital football highlights a universal thread among fans, where the lines between watching, playing, and managing the game beautifully blur in the world of gaming.