Madden NFL 23 Defense Guide – How to Defend like a Pro

by Fernando Diaz / Articles, Misc. Guides / 14 Apr 2022

If you want to be a successful Madden 23 player, it’s important to not only know how to run an offense effectively, but also how to play defense correctly. Defense can often be the difference between winning and losing in the virtual gridiron, so it’s important to take the time to understand the various strategies and techniques that can help you shut down your opponents. Here are some tips and tricks for playing defense in Madden NFL 23.

Understand the defense’s responsibilities

Before you can start playing defense effectively, it’s important to understand the roles and responsibilities of each defensive player. Each position has a specific job to do on the field, and it’s crucial that you understand what those responsibilities are. For example, the defensive ends are responsible for rushing the quarterback and disrupting plays, while the linebackers are responsible for stopping the run and covering receivers in pass coverage.

Choose the right defensive formation for the situation

One of the keys to playing defense effectively in Madden 23 is to choose the right defensive formation for the situation. There are a variety of different formations available to choose from, each with their own strengths and weaknesses. For example, a 4-3 defense is generally effective against the run, while a 3-4 defense is better at stopping the pass. Consider the offensive formation and playstyle of your opponent when choosing your defensive formation, and try to match up as best as possible.

Pre-snap adjustments

Pre-snap adjustments allow you to make changes to your defense before the play starts. This can be an effective way to confuse your opponent and disrupt their plans. For example, you can use pre-snap adjustments to bring an extra defender into the box to defend against the run, or to drop a defensive back into coverage to defend against the pass. Just be careful not to overuse pre-snap adjustments, as your opponent may be able to anticipate your movements and exploit them.

Use audibles

Similar to pre-snap adjustments, audibles allow you to change your defensive playcall before the snap. This can be an effective way to adjust to your opponent’s offensive playcall and counter their strategy. Just be sure to use audibles sparingly, as your opponent may be able to anticipate your playcall and exploit it.

Mix up your coverage

One of the keys to effective defense in Madden 23 is to mix up your coverage and not let your opponent get too comfortable. This can be achieved by using a variety of different coverage schemes, such as man coverage, zone coverage, and press coverage. Mixing up your coverage can help to keep your opponent guessing and prevent them from finding a weakness in your defense.

Use the right defensive plays and players

In Madden 23, each defensive player has their own unique set of ratings and attributes. It’s important to choose the right players for the right roles on defense. For example, you’ll want to use fast and agile cornerbacks to defend against speedy receivers, and powerful defensive tackles to stuff the run. Make sure to choose the right players for the right roles to give yourself the best chance of success on defense.

Just like offensive plays, there are a variety of different defensive plays to choose from in the game. It’s important to choose the right defensive play for the situation, as each play has its own strengths and weaknesses. For example, a blitz play can be effective at getting to the quarterback, but it may leave your defense vulnerable to the pass. Consider the offensive formation and playstyle of your opponent when choosing your defensive play, and try to match up as best as possible.

Read the offense’s tendencies

One of the keys to playing good defense is to read the offense’s tendencies. Look for patterns in their play calling, such as whether they tend to run the ball more on first down or pass the ball more on third down. By understanding these tendencies, you can better predict what play the offense is likely to run and be better prepared to defend against it.

Utilize zone coverage

One of the most effective ways to defend against the pass is by using zone coverage. In zone coverage, each defensive player is responsible for a specific area of the field, rather than a specific receiver. This allows you to defend against multiple receivers at once and can make it more difficult for the offense to predict where your defenders will be.

Don’t get too aggressive

While it can be tempting to go for the big play on defense, it’s important to maintain discipline and not get too aggressive. Overpursuing or taking unnecessary risks can leave your defense vulnerable to big plays. Instead, focus on staying in your lanes and making sure tackles to limit your opponent’s yardage.

Fernando Diaz

Fernando is doing what he always did, sharing his honest opinions about games whenever he can. The difference is now he is writing and not talking about it.
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