Help! I'm Getting Killed On The Run

[Whypstyx80]

I just got NFL 07, and when it comes to runs, I'm getting run over! What's the secret to stopping guys Westbrook and J Lewis??

[Rico Bravo]

I just got NFL 07, and when it comes to runs, I'm getting run over! What's the secret to stopping guys Westbrook and J Lewis??

These are two different types of backs. Westy is more of a scat back who like to break it to the outside...looping the line can help to contain the outside runs, and I prefer to play as one of the linebackers, and patiently play the gaps. I've found that over and solid D's work well here. J.Lew is a powerback, who should make his own room up the middle. You cold pinch the line, but I prefer to play the DT, and again, patiently play a gap...that's my preference. Playing linebacker is probably better, or bringing a safety down would work too. I've found even and stack D's work well here.

[RuThLeSs316]

Against the Ravens there is no reason you can't run a 46 until he stops running the ball every down. Just make sure you have Heap accounted for. The receivers are solid but won't beat you deep if your in cover 2. Many guys appear to have a smashmouth, run it right at you running game that can't be stopped even if you prepare. Believe me, being that type of player (I want to run everydown) it is incredibly disruptive to have my running game net me one or two yards on first and second down. On 3rd & 6 I'm in a situation where I have to pass, and your situation becomes a lot more flexible.

Westbrook is different in that he runs around you more than than over you. A 46 will get burned by a guy like Westbrook a few times a game. Ideally, you run a 3-4 and can blitz up the middle to disrupt counters, delayed handoffs, etc. and still have protection outside from the big run. If you run a 4-3, go into the over or under packages and try some corner blitzes on the left side while shifting your lineman to the right. By not moving your linebackers, this creates the illusion that your favoring a right or middle run, when in fact the blitzing corner should be able to contain Westbrook on the left and keep him inside for your linebackers to make a play. I advise you control the blitzing corner, as they tend to get absorbed in blocks by receivers beyond help if you don't take matters into your own hands.

Hope this helps.

[LBzrule]

Against the guys that like to run smashmouth, I'm starting to play linebacker alot more. Sit tight, gotta examine the behavior and get LB play down.