Defensive Dominance: A Guide on How to Stop Crossing Routes in Madden 17
Madden NFL 17 is a game that demands strategic prowess on both offense and defense. One common offensive tactic that can prove challenging to defend is the crossing route. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore effective strategies and techniques to shut down crossing routes, giving you the defensive edge needed to control the game.
1. Understanding Crossing Routes:
Before delving into defensive strategies, it's crucial to understand the mechanics of crossing routes. These routes involve receivers crossing the field horizontally, often creating mismatches and openings in the defense. Recognizing the patterns and timing of these routes is the first step to effectively counteracting them.
2. Choose the Right Defensive Play:
Selecting the appropriate defensive play is key to thwarting crossing routes. Opt for defensive formations that provide adequate coverage in the middle of the field, such as Cover 2, Cover 3, or Nickel/Dime packages. These formations position defenders in a way that minimizes the space available for crossing routes.
3. Control a Linebacker or Safety:
Taking control of a linebacker or safety allows you to actively patrol the middle of the field. Use a player with solid coverage skills and agility to shadow crossing receivers. Manually adjusting your player's positioning can disrupt the timing of the routes and lead to incompletions or interceptions.
4. Master User Coverage:
User coverage involves manually controlling a defensive player during a play. To stop crossing routes effectively, master the art of user coverage. Anticipate the receiver's path, use agile movements to stay in step, and be ready to make a play on the ball. This hands-on approach can significantly impact the success of crossing routes.
5. Implement Zone Blitzes:
Zone blitzes add pressure to the quarterback while maintaining coverage downfield. By sending additional pass rushers, you disrupt the quarterback's timing and force quicker decisions. This can result in inaccurate throws or even sacks, limiting the effectiveness of crossing routes.
6. Utilize Man-to-Man Coverage:
While zone coverage is effective, well-executed man-to-man coverage can also stifle crossing routes. Assign defenders to specific receivers and trust your cornerback or safety to stay in tight coverage. Man-to-man coverage can disrupt the natural flow of crossing routes and lead to incomplete passes.
7. Practice Defensive Adjustments:
In Madden 17, defensive adjustments play a crucial role in countering offensive strategies. Experiment with pre-snap adjustments to your defensive coverage. You can shade coverage to one side, use press coverage to disrupt receivers' releases, or adjust the depth of your defenders to counteract crossing routes more effectively.
8. Study Your Opponent's Playcalling:
Observing your opponent's playcalling tendencies is a valuable defensive skill. If you notice a reliance on crossing routes, adjust your defensive strategy accordingly. Predicting when and where crossing routes will occur allows you to position your defenders more effectively.
9. Upgrade Defensive Players:
Invest in defensive players with high agility, speed, and coverage ratings. Having agile and fast defenders allows you to match up more effectively against crossing routes, closing the separation between the receiver and the defender.
10. Stay Adaptable:
The key to defensive success in Madden 17 is adaptability. Continuously assess your opponent's offensive strategies, adjust your defensive playcalling accordingly, and stay one step ahead. Being flexible and responsive on the defensive side of the ball is essential in shutting down crossing routes consistently.
Conclusion:
Stopping crossing routes in Madden 17 requires a combination of strategic playcalling, user skill, and defensive adjustments. By implementing the techniques outlined in this guide, you can turn the tide in your favor and establish defensive dominance. Stay vigilant, study your opponent, and let your defensive prowess shine on the virtual gridiron. Happy defending!