Even with the best cornerbacks in the NFL, playing defense is perplexing. And now that Madden 23 has Skill-Based Passing, it’s even more challenging to intercept or break up the rushes. But what’s the solution? How should players defend properly? This defense 101 guide has the answer.
How to Play Defense in Madden 23
Playing defense in Madden 23 has two parts: Adjusting the lineup and repossessing the ball. To do so, pick a play in the Formation menu, decide on the Coverage Style, and intercept the ball when possible.
The goal of a defensive play should be stopping the opponents from gaining yards. But it’s also crucial to exploit turnover opportunities.
Here are five instructions on how to play defense like a pro.
Match the Formation with the Opposition
The opponent’s offensive formation shows up as soon as they select it. So, analyze their personnel and arrange the defenders accordingly.
A 4-3 or 3-4 formation is a go-to choice for beginner Madden players because they offer a stronger defense with extra linebackers. But choose the best formation with two principles in mind:
- If the opponent has three or more receivers, go with a formation with at least three cornerbacks. Nickel or Big Nickel are excellent choices.
- If the opponent has four receivers, pick a formation with extra cornerbacks. Dime or Dollar are good choices.
Adjust the Defensive Line in Advance
Press left on the D-pad to adjust the defense line when on the scrimmage line. If the opponent seems to be planning for the corners, move the D-line to the right or left. If a scramble is more likely, pinch them down. And if a deep pass is coming, spread them up.
To stop a rush, adjust the linebackers. Press right on the D-pad and assign them to blitz or specific zones.
Use Coverage Adjustment to Shade
Press Y (triangle on PlayStation) to adjust coverage. Shade the defenders by giving them press assignments or base alignment. Or, for a tricky defensive play, ask them to give the receiver cushion.
Assign Players and Define Their Zone
While having the marker on a specific player, press A (X on PlayStation) to adjust their assignments and zone. Set them as the QB Spy to prevent possible rushes, or assign them to hard flats to stop short passes.
Choose a Turnover-Friendly Coverage Style
Cover 2 and Cover 3 are the most popular coverage styles in Madden NFL 23. They keep the play in the front and press the opponent near the passing packet. But there are other options as well.
- To put pressure on the opponent, use the Man Blitz style.
- For a deep-pass-preventing style, go with Cover 2 Man.
- And to have a beginner-friendly, unbreakable defensive line, choose Cover 4.
The Key to Successful Defense in Madden
Adjustments are the most important part of playing defense in Madden 23. To overcome any offensive strategy, learn how the formations, D-lines, and coverage styles work. As football gurus say, the best defense is quick to fix. And learning about these settings is crucial to building that.
Madden NFL 23 is available now for Xbox, PlayStation, and PC.