Most importantly, don't lock onto one receiver before the snap. Read the field, take quick, short gains when available, and avoid holding the ball too long. Practice stepping up in the pocket instead of drifting backward, and always remember to slide with your quarterback instead of CUT 26 Coins taking unnecessary hits.

Running Fundamentals

Running effectively requires mastering ball carrier moves:

Juke: Flick the right stick left or right.

Spin: Press B/Circle. Hold a sprint for a precision spin.

Stiff arm: Hold A/X.

Truck: Flick the right stick up when facing a defender.

Hurdle: Y/Triangle, though use sparingly.

Avoid holding sprint (RT/R2) behind the line of scrimmage. Let your blockers set up first, then accelerate in the open field. Core running plays to practice include halfback dives and outside zones under center, as well as inside zones and duos from shotgun. Don't forget to mix in option plays-speed options are especially effective against average defenses.

Beating Man Coverage

Man defense is strong in this year's game, so you need reliable routes to counter it:

Texas/Angle routes: Running backs can torch linebackers with this.

Zig routes: Consistently one of the best man beaters.

Slants: Simple but effective when run by skilled receivers.

Mix these routes into your playbook so you're never stuck against tight-man coverage.

Attacking Zone Coverage

To beat zones like Cover 2, 3, or 4, use concepts that create high-low reads. The flood concept is a staple: send three receivers to one side-an outside streak, a corner route, and a flat. The streak clears out defenders while you choose between the corner or flat based on coverage. Screens and jet touch passes can also punish defenders who sit in zone.

Defense 101

Defensive success starts with matching personnel. If the offense comes out with two receivers, use a heavier set like 4-3. For three receivers, go nickel; for four, use dime or dollar packages.

Beginner-friendly coverages include:

Cover 2 Man: Strong against most opponents, especially with a good pass rush.

Tampa 2: Keeps plays in front of you and forces short throws.

Cover 3 Sky/Hard Flat: Protects against deep passes while limiting big gains.

Rotate between these to stay unpredictable.

Learning to Blitz

Blitzing adds pressure but comes with risk. The easiest beginner blitz is a Cover 0 man blitz with six rushers. If the running back blocks, cover the middle yourself; if he releases, follow him. Blitzing forces mistakes, but don't overuse it or you'll give up big plays. To NCAA Football 26 Coins counter blitzes, keep your running back in to block by hot-routing him.