Utilizing the Unbumpable Blue Route Out of the Backfield
In this tip we are are going to look at another innovative way to beat the bump n' run. However, this time we will be using one of the new features that EA has added to this year's game. The new feature that EA added was the ability to "Smart Route" your running back's current route into a Blue Route. A Blue Route is simply a delayed route that calls for your running back to look to make a block first before heading upfield. These routes have always been effective, but as you'll see in this tip they can now give the offense one more option to think about.
Figure 1 - The offensive assignments for the PA TE Corner play can be seen above. The defense is guarding our receivers tight and we want to show our opponent a completely different look.
Figure 2 - The first thing we do is hot route both the fullback to stay in and block. To make this change on the field you need to press (XBOX - Y + receiver's icon + right or left trigger / PS2 - Triangle + receiver's icon + R2 or L2). Also, we want you to notice the running back because we will be sending him in motion in Figure 3.
Figure 3 - The running back has now been motioned out to the right. Also, we have hot routed him to perform a drag route towards the right sidelines. To make this change you need to press (XBOX - Y + receiver's icon + right analog stick right / PS2 - Triangle + receiver's icon + right analog stick right).
Figure 4 - The last change we want to make is "Smart-Routing" the running back's route. To do this press (XBOX - Y + receiver's icon + right analog stick down / PS2 - Triangle + receiver's icon + right analog stick down). Now the running back will run a delayed blue route. It is important to utilize the fullback often when using this tactic because that still will force the defense to respect the run.
Figure 5 - Immediately after the snap our running back begins backpeddling off of the line of scrimmage as he looks to make a block.
Figure 6 - Just a split second later our running back begins running upfield on his drag route.
Figure 7 - The cornerback doesn't even think about bumping the running back as he heads to the outside.
Figure 8 - We deliver the pass to the wide open target by pressing right on the directional pad to put the ball in a spot that only our receiver can catch it.
Figure 9 - The catch is made and we still have plenty of time to turn it upfield for extra yardage.
Figure 10 - Our running back heads up the sidelines as the defenders continue to chase.
Figure 11 - We are finally pushed out after an easy gain of 10.
Final Conclusion
It's important to quickly learn all of the new options that EA has provided us with this year to get your game where you want it in 07'. Utilizing Blue Routes can be a consistent way for you to find open receivers against man to man defenses. Also, they can be very beneficial when attempting to improve your blocking up front. Take this little gem into practice mode and find a way to work it into your gameplan.
