To succeed in an attack, you cannot neglect the running game. Running the ball will not only allow you to pounce on an opponent who is waiting for a pass, but will also make you more unpredictable. So how do you manage a successful racing game? Let's go over our tips for what you need to know about managing soccer in Madden 21.
Know the commands
Before you do anything with the game running, you need to learn the controls. Once you've called up the formation and gone through the football to start a running game, you will be able to move the ball carrier once they have pigskin with the left stick. The right stick can be used to perform a variety of different movements which can be used to evade or push through a defender. Ball carriers can perform a truck (right stick up), dead leg (right stick down), a juke (right left or right stick, depending on which direction you want to make the movement, or a spin (move the right stick either clockwise or counterclockwise).
Here are some other controls you should know to run soccer in Madden 21:
- Sprint - RT / R2
- Protect the ball - RB / R1
- Hedge - Y / Triangle
- Rigid arm - A / X
- Diving - X / Square
- Spin - B / Cercle
Below is a full description of the Ball Carrier controls for Xbox players:
Find the right playbook
If you want to get creative with the game running, you might want to start with the playbook. Playbooks are the lifeblood of any offense, so having the best racing and the best RPO games can be a game-changer. When it comes to playbooks that are good for the running game, the Ravens playbook is a great option for those who want to hit the ball with a half back or are looking to run options with the QB. Other playbooks that have good racing games include the Saints, Rams, and 49ers.
Look for the holes
When you are running soccer you need to watch closely for any holes that might appear in the middle of the field. If your opposing line is strong enough to prevent opposing defenders from rushing you, chances are the space is open for you. As a ball carrier you have to make the most of this space when you see it because you can pick up a lot of yards in a short period of time.
Read the opposing defense
A critical part of the game running has nothing to do with the games you are running. Rather, it has to do with how the opponent lines up defense. When you are in the pre-snap phase of the game, you will be able to clearly see how the opposing defense is set up. This is important, because just by looking at how the opponent is set up you can get a general idea of what you need to do for the next game.
In each game, you will usually see between 7 and 8 players right next to the line of scrimmage or the box. Your job, if you plan to start a running game, is to get a feel for what the opponent plans to run based on the defense setup in the box. If the front seven is close to the line, it is very likely that the opponent is planning a blitz, which can hamper a run. However, if the opponent's defense is more extensive, it means that there is a higher probability that the opposition will not launch a blitz.
Watch for these trends, because if you see the opponent planning a blitz, you may be audible out of play. Or, you may hear to call a play in progress if you see the opposition in a vulnerable formation.
Look for a quick return ...
Or a power back, depending on how you want to play. If you plan on doing a lot of runs or stretching outdoors, consider looking for a quick return to use. If you're playing head-to-head online, try using the Saints (Alvin Kamara), Giants (Sequon Barkley) or Patriots (Sony Michel), three teams that have quick running backs. If you're in Madden Ultimate Team or Franchise mode, look for rears that have high speed, acceleration, and agility attributes.
However, if you plan to call in a lot of interior rushes, such as diving games, you might want to use power feedback that can pierce opposing defenders. The Ravens (Mark Ingram), Titans (Derrick Henry) and Browns (Nick Chubb) are all teams with muscle in the running game. For MUT and Franchise modes, look for players who have high Tackle and Trucking attributes.
Diversify your gaming appeal
Another thing you need to keep in mind when running football is that you need to diversify your game. You can have the best running back, a great offensive line, and a fantastic playbook, but if you're predictable, opposing players will understand your tendencies.
To avoid this, try to alternate between running and passing games. Perform one dive or stretch set, and mesh set on the second. Don't be afraid to run football for a second and long either, as long as you have confidence in your team's ability to gain ground. The key is to confuse the opponent because the last thing you want the opposition to read is everything you do. It's an easy way to lose momentum in a game.
