The blitzing technique that we'll be revealing in the following tip can be executed from a number of different formations in Madden 09. However, in this example we'll be showcasing this technique from the 46 Bear and the Nickel Normal formations only. The key to bringing as much pressure as possible on your opponent when setting up this blitz is to have your fastest linemen in at the starting defensive tackle position. The setup for this play will work when your opponent is in shotgun, but it is more effective when playing someone who likes to remain under center. Follow along with the setup below to find out how you can utilize the quickest pressure possible in the game.
Quick Setup
Step 1 - Hot route your left defensive end and both defensive tackles to blitz straight down (Move icon onto player, then A + flick right analog stick down).
Step 2 - Hot route another defender to blitz and manually place him in front of and slightly to the left of the defensive tackle. (Move icon onto player, then A + flick right analog stick down).
Play Breakdown
In this first image you can see the defensive assignments for the 46 Bear Cover 3 play. Currently, we're only rushing three defenders and keeping eight back in coverage. However, in order to create some of the most intense pressure possible we'll need to add a fourth rusher.
First, we hot route the left defensive end and both defensive tackles to blitz straight down.
Next, we hot route any other player to blitz straight down and prepare to manually move him closer to the line.
The key is to place the hot routed blitzer in front of and slightly to the left of the #2 defensive tackle. This manual movement will take some time and practice, but once it's perfected it will be well worth it.
Here's a closer look at the line of scrimmage to allow you to see exactly what the setup should look like when done correctly.
