There are six categories of basic offensive plays, and you can swipe left and right or click on the arrows to see more plays. Notice that the play diagram updates to reflect your selection.
The screen above shows the runs available to you in most formations. If you’re in the Shotgun formation, some of these will not be available. See the Tactics and Tips section for suggestions on your Running Game. Basically, though
- Run up the Middle against pass defenses or if you really need a yard.
- Inside runs are your most common runs, just mix them around.
- End runs can break for big gains if you have a quick back.
This next screen shows you the Passing and Kicking options.
Passes are Short (less than eight yards), Medium (9-18 yards), and Long (20+ yards). Again, be sure to check the Tactics section for more information on the Passing Game.
Special Passes include a few trick plays:
- Screen pass. The offensive line actually lets the pass rush penetrate, and at least a few blockers move over to the side to block for the back, which the QB hopefully hits with a pass. Dangerous against blitzes, but can otherwise slow pass rushes.
- Halfback pass. The QB hands the ball to the halfback who runs wide as if he’s going to run a sweep. Hopefully, the defense bites and moves up to stop him, leaving a receiver open downfield, and the halfback hits him with a pass for a big game. That’s the theory, anyway.
- Flea Flicker. QB hands the ball to the halfback in what appears to be a middle run. However, the back stops, turns around, and pitches the ball back to the QB. If the defense was looking Run, they may have moved up to stop the run, leaving a receiver wide open for a long gain.
- Hail Mary. This phrase was coined by a famous pro quarterback in 1975. No finesse here. Everyone runs deep and the QB throws as far as he can and hopes one of his receivers catches it. Desperation play.
Kicks. Depending on field position, you may see Punt, Fieldgoal, or both. If the Fieldgoal option appears, you’ll see his chance of making the kick. Remember, you can click on Scout to see your kickers’ abilities!