Welcome to Episode 3 of Ask Huddle! Each week, we answer the community’s top Madden-related questions to help you take your game to the next level. Watch the full video for more details, and if you have a question you'd like us to cover in a future episode, be sure to drop it in the comments below.
To watch the full video on YouTube from Huddle.gg, click play above or here.
Question #1: How do you stop RPO Alert Bubbles?
Answer:
RPO Alert Bubbles are much easier to defend than RPO Read Bubbles, which works to our advantage. The key to stopping RPO Alert Bubbles is ensuring a numbers advantage on the side of the bubble route. For example, if the offense has two blockers and a bubble receiver on one side, we need at least three defenders in that area to properly match up.
From there, the best strategy is to assign the inside defender to man coverage on the bubble receiver. This simple adjustment allows us to shut it down consistently, taking away the quick throw and forcing the offense into a tough situation.
Question #2: What are the best defensive line abilities to use?
Answer:
Defensive line abilities are a powerful tool, especially when you want to generate organic pressure with your front four without relying on blitzes. Right now, the two best abilities for defensive linemen are Edge Threat and Double or Nothing. However, the real key is stacking these abilities on the same player.
By combining Edge Threat and Double or Nothing, you maximize your pass rusher’s ability to shed blocks quickly and disrupt the quarterback. This setup gives you the best chance to generate pressure and rack up easy sacks without overcommitting extra defenders.
Question #3: What is a good concept to beat Cover 4 Quarters?
Answer:
Cover 4 Quarters is a match-based defense, but we can exploit its rules to attack it over the top—especially when we're using certain formations. One of the most effective ways to break down Cover 4 Quarters is by using an empty formation.
By sending all five receivers on vertical routes, we force the 3 Rec Hook defender into a tough spot, making him responsible for covering the inside or #3 receiver deep down the field. This creates a great opportunity to stretch the defense and hit a one-play touchdown over the top.
For the exact route combination that perfectly exposes this coverage, be sure to watch the full video!
Question #4: What exactly does Secure Protector do?
Answer:
Secure Protector is arguably the best offensive line ability in the game. While most players recognize its impact against elite pass rushers, many overlook its effectiveness in the run game as well.
Not only does Secure Protector counter dominant pass rush abilities like Edge Threat and Double or Nothing, but it also neutralizes key run-stopping abilities such as Inside Stuff and No Outsiders.
Don't believe us? Watch the video as we break down Secure Protector, showing it countering each of the defensive abilities mentioned above!
Question #5: What's the best way to recover onside kicks?
Answer:
Before we dive in, it's important to note that onside kicks are never guaranteed—but we can maximize our chances of recovering them with the right approach.
There are two effective techniques that can significantly improve our odds of regaining possession:
The Low Kick – Aim the kick meter all the way to the right and use very low power to create a controlled, short bounce right to the 10-yard mark (see video for details).
The High Kick – Aim the meter slightly to the left and double-click the power at the top of the meter to generate a jump ball opportunity for your team (see video for details).
While these methods don’t guarantee a recovery, they put our team in the best possible position to get to the ball first and keep the game alive.
Thanks for tuning in again this week! If you have a question you'd like answered in a future episode, make sure to drop it in the comments below!
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