Free Fire is a blitz that has been in the Madden series for a long time now. We have designed the pressure on this play to come from your middle linebacker. This is one of those plays that can be looked at as high risk/high reward type of defense because we are sending six defenders after the quarterback, while forcing our remaining defenders to play one on one coverage downfield. We don't mind the coverage if we're getting the pressure up front.
Quick Setup
Step 1 - Pinch the linebackers (RB + down)
Step 2 - Manually move the middle linebacker next to the strong defensive tackle. His blitzing angle should now be pointing directly between the center and the right guard on the offensive line.
Step 3 - Manually move the right outside linebacker closer to the line of scrimmage to disguise the pressure.
Figure 1 - Here you can see the defensive assignments for the 4 - 3 Normal Free Fire play. Notice that every defender is in man to man coverage besides the two linebackers in the middle of the field.
Figure 2 - In this picture we have taken all the neccessary steps for success. Figure 3 provides a closer view of the setup.
Figure 3 - This picture allows you to see where the linebacker needs to be placed before the snap in order to bring the pressure. Now we are ready for the play to begin.
Figure 4 - As the quarterback drops back to pass the middle linebacker attacks the opening in the offensive line.
Figure 5 - The linebacker explods through the offensive line and the quarterback can only watch in terror at this point.
Figure 6 - Our linebacker delivers the big hit on the quarterback. The offense never had a chance to get rid of the ball on this play.
Final Conclusion
Passing the ball in Madden on the 360 can sometimes be difficult. However, passing the ball with a linebacker instantly in front of your face can be near impossible. When running this play you want to make sure that you have solid cornerbacks to cover the field with because there is no safety help. Also, be sure to sub in your fastest linebacker at the middle linebacker position to put as much pressure on your opponent as possible. The great thing about this blitz is it also does adecent job against the run because you have seven defenders near the line of scrimmage. All in all, the 4-3 Free Fire is going to be more heat than most people can handle.
