Madden NFL 10 - Using Motion for Pass Protection

Just calling for the running back to block is not always enough to actually help with the protection scheme of the offense. In this scenario, the defense has overloaded the side of the offense away from the running back. If they are sending pressure from this side, we need to roll out to the right or get a quick pass off to avoid the blitz.

Instead of keeping the back in the backfield on the right side, we motion him to the left side and use him to add protection against the overload of the defense. Now that the play has started, the protection is already in place and adequate to stall the defense.

The back makes a solid block on the defender trying to rush around the edge and does enough to prevent the defender from turning the corner and heading toward the quarterback. Even if the defender were to continue around the corner, the left tackle is there to clean up behind the back.

WR as a Blocker

Sometimes, adding receivers to block is a beneficial option for our offense. In this play, the WR Drag, we don’t feel that taking the flanker out of the play will hinder the success of the design of the play. When you have a play like this called you should explore the option of using your receiver as a blocker. We have also decided to use the flanker as a blocker because the safety is so close to the line and showing as a blitz threat.

The ability to snap the ball and have your receiver immediately downfield has changed in Madden NFL 10. It will take a little time to make sure you have the perfect timing to send your receiver in motion and snap the ball in time for him to pick up the person you want him to block.

When we hike the ball, our flanker is in perfect position to block the safety as he tries to get into the backfield. The benefit that we see in this image is that the cornerback is put into a position where he has to choose who to cover, the tight end or the running back.

Based on the motion and blocking of the flanker, the corner gets so lost that both the tight end and the running back are open right away. And, we have enough protection to actually get the ball to either pass option.

There are many different variations of pass protection. We have covered some and given you the tips that will make sure you have success when passing the ball in Madden.

Remember, the more you do the same thing, the better the defense will get at figuring out what it is that you’re doing. By adding the different protection schemes and options to your gameplay you will make it harder on the defense to figure out a pressure package to attack you with.