Reading defenses is a must-learn skill for total domination of your opponents. Being able to tell where they'll attack lets you plan to be somewhere else. It's much easier to react to the defense if you've got a good idea of what they're up to. Following are some tips for reading defenses.

The Blitz

Linebackers creeping up on the line usually indicates some kind of blitz. Be prepared to get rid of the ball quickly if passing. If the defense is crowding the line at the point where your running play is headed, be prepared to find a secondary opening. Watch out for blitzing cornerbacks coming out of nowhere from the sides of the screen.

Watch Safeties

Pay attention to where the safeties and linebackers are headed. Sometimes they'll run over to provide double-coverage on your receivers, or they'll float in the middle to cover receivers who are running crossing routes. Anticipate where the safeties and linebackers will go and throw away from the double-coverage.

Exploit Weaknesses

Know where the weaker defensive players are and exploit that side of the field. Avoid throwing or running straight at superstar players-they'll be more likely to intercept your pass or crush you for a devastating loss.