De-Scrambling QBs (how to defend vs scramble)

This is an article by our friends at MaddenUniversity written by TNT713

Ever since Mike Vick graced the cover of Madden NFL 2004, speed at the quarterback position has revolutionized how we play defense. Now that Vick is back in the NFL and performing well, Madden players must brush up on ways to stop him. As a result of the threat Vick and other scrambling quarterbacks presented two defensive assignments have since been added to the game. Even with the changes, a QB on the move can still be frustrating to defend. Not only can they make plays with their legs, but their arms make them doubly dangerous. Because of their dual edge, you'll need to sharpen the tools in your game plan to contain and neutralize fast passers.

The most common reason players scramble is to get away from heavy nano-blitz style pressure. With the most worrisome pressure packages sending heat through the A-gap, it's no wonder there is such a high premium placed on a quarterback's speed. Whether sprinting straight back or to the outside, gaining separation from the line of scrimmage is critical. Conventional pass drops of 3, 5, and 7 steps get passers away from pressure and time when to throw to receiver routes but Madden players are likely to face more unorthodox pass drop methods. When approached like exaggerations of a conventional drop slowing down fast passers becomes easier.

Many players scramble because when they have difficulties making quick coverage reads. When the box is crowded, sprinting to the edges of the pocket keeps the passer standing until the coverage reveals itself more clearly. Once the coverage drops off the line and rushers declare their intentions, setting up deep or outside makes picking the right receiver easier. In addition, scramble drops tend to break down the pass rush into lone individuals as opposed to a cohesive unit. The drawback for the offense is the added length to the throw. If the quarterback remains deep in the backfield, his range for downfield passes is diminished while allowing time for defenders to react to the ball.

Regardless of the reasons or the methods, scrambling quarterbacks utilize Personnel, Position, and Tempo to make things happen. Understanding how these facets are used will give you clues to how to use them against your opponent.


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