Mastering Madden Coverage: A Comprehensive Guide to Defenses

TLDRLearn about the different coverages in Madden and how they translate to the NFL. Explore cover one, cover two, cover three, cover four, and cover six, along with their variations and strengths. Discover common ways to attack each coverage and the importance of protection against cover zero blitzes.

Key insights

🔍Cover one has variations like cover 1 B, cover one plug, and cover one robber. Each variation determines the number of coverage players and the presence of an extra zone defender.

💥In cover two, there are five defenders playing zone underneath and two defenders playing deep halves. The coverage aims to prevent deep passes and exploit checkdowns to running backs.

🔵Cover three is a widely used coverage but often teams play it differently. The curl-flat players in the purple zone have varying responsibilities depending on the team's defensive strategy.

🧪Cover four combines elements of cover two and cover four. It can be used to disguise coverages but may leave the defense vulnerable due to potential voids in coverage.

🚀Cover six is a mixture of cover four and cover two. It balances the benefits and weaknesses of both coverages and uses a safety to defend against vertical routes.

Q&A

How can I beat cover zero blitzes?

To beat cover zero blitzes, it is crucial to have quick out-breaking routes and slide the offensive line to protect the quarterback. Running back screens can also be effective.

Which coverage is best for stopping the run?

Cover four is a good option for stopping the run as it prioritizes run defense by assigning run responsibilities to the safeties. However, cover zero can also be effective with proper run fits.

How do teams attack cover three?

Teams attack cover three by stressing the seams vertically and the flats horizontally. They often run curl-flat combinations, trips verticals, and deep shots with tight ends or receivers.

What are the weaknesses of cover two?

The weaknesses of cover two are the potential voids in the middle of the field, which can be exploited by post routes and deep shots. Running backs in the flats can also be targeted.

Is cover six harder to beat in the red zone?

Cover six can be harder to beat in the red zone due to the reduced space to exploit. However, in the open field, there are more opportunities to attack the voids in the coverage.

Timestamped Summary

00:00In this video, we delve into the different coverages in Madden and their translations to the NFL.

06:19Cover zero is an all-out blitz with five defenders playing man coverage. Quick out-breaking routes and proper offensive line protection are key to beating it.

15:32Cover two consists of five defenders in zone underneath and two defenders playing deep halves. It aims to prevent deep passes and take away passing lanes.

28:41Cover three is a common coverage with variations in how teams play it. The curl-flat players have specific responsibilities depending on the team's defensive strategy.

43:20Cover four combines elements of cover two and cover four. It can be used to disguise coverages but may leave voids that can be exploited by smart offensive playcalling.

56:46Cover six is a balance between cover four and cover two. It plays 50/50 on each side of the field and can be effective when teams don't know how to attack it.