Wednesday, February 3, 2010

Defending against flat passes in compressed sets

Lately, I've noticed more online opponents using compressed formations throughout the game. In this formation, they will take advantage throwing passes out the the flats near the sidelines. Since the offense is using a compressed formation defenders will usually be lined up tight near the middle of the field before the snap. After the snap, players usually need to sprint to get to the outside to stop these plays but usually it's too late.

I may have found a Madden play, called Cover 2 Sink, which seems to be quite effective against compression sets. I believe the reason why this play is so effective is because the defenders are more spread out among the field before the snap. When the ball is snapped, the defenders are already in position to defend against outside passes.

Before, I would try manually sliding the defensive backs to the outside. Most of the time it takes too long to set this up.

cover-2-sink

Cover 2 Sink tips

The cover 2 Sink should be found in all playbooks. I've been using it out of the 1-5-5 Nickel formation from the NY Jets defensive playbook. One thing I like about this formation is that the number of linebackers available makes it extremely versatile.

Blitzing
Mixing heavy blitzes with Cover 2 Sink can work wonders, especially if your opponent has been running quick slants or curls or other shorter routes. Give him a couple zone blitzes like the Inside Blitz or the SS Blitz and let him hit a slant or two. Then, call the Cover 2 Sink and there may be a good chance of forcing an interception or getting a sack because the opponent will hold on to the ball longer than he expected to.

As for setting up blitzes, one thing that can be done is to re blitz three players side by side anywhere in the middle. With this setup, there's a good chance these blitzers will get to the QB.

Play Action Plays
The Cover 2 Sink has been mentioned as a play that can help stop roll out and play action plays.

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