To execute a successful screen pass in Madden NFL 21, select a play with a screen pass option. Wait for the blocking to set up, then pass the ball to the running back or receiver. Use the blockers in front to gain yards by following their lead and looking for open space.
Understanding the Screen Pass
Running a successful screen pass in Madden NFL 21 can be a game-changer if executed correctly. A screen pass is a type of offensive play where the quarterback passes the ball to a running back or a receiver who has set up behind the offensive line. The goal of a screen pass is to allow the receiver to catch the ball with some blockers in front of him, creating space to gain significant yardage. To run a successful screen pass, you need to understand the key elements and strategies involved.
Choosing the Right Play
Before attempting a screen pass in Madden NFL 21, it's crucial to select the right play from your playbook. Look for plays that are specifically designed as screen passes, as they are more likely to have the necessary blocking assignments and routes for success. These plays are often found in the halfback or wide receiver screens section of your playbook. Pay attention to the formation, personnel, and defensive alignment to determine if a screen pass is a viable option.
Reading the Defense
One of the most critical aspects of running a successful screen pass is reading the defense correctly. Before the snap, assess the defensive alignment to determine if a screen pass is a suitable play call. Look for signs of blitzes or aggressive pass rushers who can disrupt the screen play. If the defense is playing off coverage or has defenders dropping into zone coverage, it might be a good opportunity to set up a screen pass. Adjust your play call based on how the defense is lined up to increase the chances of success.
Executing the Screen Pass
Once you've selected the right play and read the defense, it's time to execute the screen pass. Start by identifying the primary receiver for the screen pass, usually a running back or a quick wide receiver with good elusiveness. As the quarterback, take the snap and quickly drop back to set up the screen pass. Keep an eye on the defensive pursuit and timing your pass to the receiver behind the offensive line.
Setting Up Blocks
After delivering the pass to the receiver, it's essential to set up blocks to create running lanes and space for the receiver to make a play. Your offensive linemen and potentially some wide receivers will move to block defenders downfield. Focus on getting blockers in front of the receiver to shield him from pursuing defenders. Stay patient and allow the blocks to develop before making a move upfield.
Utilizing the Receiver's Skills
To maximize the effectiveness of a screen pass, you need to utilize the receiver's skills and agility. Look for opportunities to juke, spin, or accelerate past defenders once you've caught the screen pass. Use the controller's moves and stick skills to navigate through traffic and find openings in the defense. Keep an eye on pursuing defenders and react quickly to avoid tackles and gain extra yardage.
Practice and Timing
Running a successful screen pass in Madden NFL 21 requires practice and timing. Spend time in practice mode to hone your skills in setting up screen plays, reading defenses, and executing passes accurately. Understand the timing required to let the screen develop while being ready to react to defensive adjustments. With practice, you'll improve your screen pass execution and increase your chances of success in games.
Adapting to the Defense
Lastly, be prepared to adapt to the defense's reactions to your screen pass attempts. If the defense starts keying in on your screen plays, consider mixing up your play calls to keep them guessing. Use play-action fakes or other misdirection plays to keep the defense off balance and create opportunities for successful screen passes. Stay alert and observant of how the defense adjusts to your screen passes, and be ready to make strategic changes to maintain offensive efficiency.