Index
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Types of Coverages
In each formation, you have the option of three types of defensive plays: man-to-man, zone, or blitz.
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Man-to-Man
These plays put one defender on each offensive player. If your overall defensive personnel are significantly better than your opponent's, you can get away with calling man coverages often. Man-to-man play won't net you any big losses, but won't give up any big gains either.
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Zone
Zone plays assign defenders a certain area to protect. These are designed to make certain receivers look open, when in fact they are covered. Zones are often your best bet for creating interception opportunities, but a blown coverage or play call can leave a receiver wide open.
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Blitzes
Blitzes force the offense to react to the defense quickly. These plays send more defenders toward the QB than there are blockers to defend him. The opposing QB must get rid of the ball quickly or be forced to take a loss. Blitzes are good for disrupting the flow of the offense's game plan and can net big losses. The downside is that with extra defenders rushing the QB, it's guaranteed that a receiver is open somewhere. Blitzes are combined with either zone or man-to-man coverages to make up for the blitzing player(s).
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Scouting an Opposing Offense
Another key to successfully defending is knowing your opponent's superstars and weaknesses. Look at the opposing offensive line to see which side to blitz from. Note your opponent's offensive tendencies and call coverages that best combat their style of play. For example, if your opponent bases its offense around a running back, shut him down and force them to beat you with their passing game.
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General Tips
Try to emulate the playing style your NFL team uses during the season. If your team is not a defensive powerhouse, don't call many blitzes. Play it safe, but remember that the only thing a prevent defense is good for is preventing you from winning. Hit first, hit fast, and hit hard. Other general tips:
- Diving works better than trying to power tackle.
- When a pass has been thrown, select the closest defender and jump to knock the ball away or intercept the pass.
- Hit a receiver hard enough as he catches the ball and you may knock it loose (just don't get there too early).
- Don't hit the QB after he throws or hands off.
- Use the swim move to get past the offensive line and pressure the QB.
- Study your opponent's tendencies and call coverages that best combat their offensive preferences.
- Taking an angle at a break-away offensive player is better than diving for a shoelace tackle.
- Make sure any player who's gone in motion is covered.
- Don't run into the punter.
- Shift the defensive line to put people outside the guards to get a better angle on the pass rush.
- Use bump-and-run to disrupt the offense's passing routes.
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