1. Set Up with a Strong Running Game
Play-action works best when the defense believes you're consistently running the ball effectively. If you've been pounding the ball successfully, the defense will be more likely to CFB 25 Coins bite on a run fake, opening up opportunities for big passing plays.

Tip: Establish a reliable running game early in the game or season, mixing between inside zone, outside zone, and power runs to keep the defense thinking you’ll run. The more successful your ground game, the more effective your play-action passes will be.
2. Sell the Run Fake
The key to a successful play-action is making the fake as convincing as possible. Your quarterback and running back need to make the play-action look as close to a real handoff as possible. A smooth fake that pulls in the linebackers and safeties will leave them out of position and open up passing lanes.

Tip: Have your quarterback aggressively hand the ball off or fake the handoff with quick, decisive motions. The more believable the fake, the more the defense will bite on it.
3. Attack the Intermediate and Deep Zones
After successfully selling the run fake, look to attack the intermediate and deep parts of the field. When the defense bites on the run, the linebackers and safeties will be drawn in, creating gaps in the coverage that you can exploit with deep throws or intermediate routes.

Tip: Focus on post routes, deep comebacks, and crossing routes that take advantage of the space opened up by the fake. Deep plays are more likely to be successful when the defense is expecting the run.
4. Use Play-Action on First Down and After Big Runs
To truly keep the defense guessing, don’t limit play-action to just third and long situations. Use it on first down, especially after a successful run, to mix things up and keep the defense on its heels.

Tip: Use play-action after a solid 5-6 yard run on first down, which can set up a big pass on the very next play, taking advantage of the defense’s anticipation of a run.
5. Identify Mismatches and Exploit Them
One of the biggest advantages of using play-action is the ability to exploit mismatches. If your receiver is in a favorable matchup with a cornerback or if a safety bites too hard on the run fake, you have the opportunity for a big play. Recognize those moments and take advantage of them immediately.

Tip: Use your play-action to isolate key matchups, such as a fast wide receiver against a slower cornerback or a tight end against a linebacker.
6. Keep the Defense Guessing with Play-Action Off of Various Formations
Mix up the formations from which you run play-action to prevent the defense from predicting when you’ll use it. For example, run play-action from shotgun, under center, and even from empty sets to keep the defense on edge.

Tip: Change your formations frequently to disguise when and where you’ll run the play-action. This makes it harder for NCAA Football 25 Coins the defense to read your intentions.