Madden 22 is all about creating those awe-inspiring moments and game-changing plays. With 32 teams offering diverse offensive playbooks, you’ll never face the same team twice. Whether you’re a pocket-passing maestro like Tom Brady or a scrambling magician like Patrick Mahomes, or even a running enthusiast like Derik Henry or Dalvin Cook, there’s a playbook in Madden 22 tailored to your style. Let’s explore the top 5 offensive playbooks that will elevate your game.
General Offensive Schemes
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Just like defensive playbooks, offensive playbooks in Madden 22 feature a set of core plays run from either the gun or under center. These include quick passes such as Slants and mid-distance passes like TE Dive. However, the uniqueness of offensive playbooks lies in each team’s individual preferences. For instance, the Ravens and Lamar Jackson employ intricate Read Option plays, while Tom Brady and the Bucs excel at deep passing between zones.
While most players can use any offensive playbook and run familiar plays, the real excitement in Madden 22 comes from understanding how different formations counter specific defensive strategies. Mastering concepts like Weak vs. Strongside runs and uncovering the advantages of tight formations against man coverage will tip the scales in your favor, leading to touchdowns instead of turnovers.
Let’s delve into some general offensive concepts found in every playbook and explore how different offenses approach them.
Singleback Formation
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In the Singleback formation, the quarterback lines up under center while a single running back stands in the backfield. Wide receivers can be bunched on one side or spread out on both sides. The Singleback formation is versatile, suitable for both passing and running situations, making it difficult for the defense to predict your next move.
I Form
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In the I Form, the quarterback lines up under center, with a fullback and halfback positioned behind him. This formation clearly indicates a run-heavy approach, challenging the defense to try and stop it. However, be mindful of quick pass plays, as linebackers will aggressively close in on the quarterback.
Strong and Weak Formations
These formations determine the side on which the fullback lines up alongside the offensive line. In the Strong formation, the fullback lines up on the side with more blockers, usually two linemen and a tight end. On the other hand, in the Weak formation, the fullback lines up on the opposite side. These formations aim to confuse the defense regarding the direction of the run play. While they offer passing options, they lean towards establishing a strong running game.
Shotgun Formation
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In the Shotgun formation, the quarterback stands a few yards behind the line of scrimmage, receiving the snapped ball from the center. Primarily used in passing situations, the Shotgun formation also incorporates inside and outside handoffs to keep the defense guessing. Additionally, most Read Option plays are executed from the Shotgun, offering multiple possibilities.
Pistol Formation
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The Pistol formation, popularized in college football, has made its way to the NFL, especially with the rise of mobile quarterbacks. In the Pistol, the quarterback lines up in Shotgun, while a running back stands deep in the backfield. Occasionally, another player may flank the quarterback on either side in different Pistol formations.
The Top 5 Offensive Playbooks in Madden 22
Now that we’ve covered the fundamental offensive formations, let’s explore the top 5 offensive playbooks that will take your Madden 22 experience to new heights. These playbooks cater to various playstyles and strategies.
The Baltimore Ravens
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The Baltimore Ravens’ playbook embraces the new-age of the NFL, focusing on scrambling quarterbacks and the Read Option plays. With 23 RPO plays at your disposal, including the famous Shovel Option executed by Travis Kelce and Patrick Mahomes near the goal line, you have multiple decisions to make on each play. The Ravens’ passing game thrives on 26 different Play Action passes and RPO plays, leaving defenders guessing.
The New Orleans Saints
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The New Orleans Saints boast one of the most potent pass-focused playbooks in Madden 22. Even with Drew Brees’ retirement, the Saints maintain their reputation as a top passing attack. With Alvin Kamara in the backfield, the playbook offers a wide variety of routes for running backs, making check-down throws highly reliable. The Pistol formation adds versatility, allowing you to confuse defenses on early downs by presenting both running and passing options.
The San Francisco 49ers
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The San Francisco 49ers aim to relive the glory days of Joe Montana and Jerry Rice with a lethal passing attack complemented by a solid running game. The Split Close and Split Close Pro formations from the Shotgun formation unlock a myriad of passing and running opportunities. Additionally, by substituting a tight end at fullback, you introduce more versatility to the receiving options. With well-designed run plays and the ability to adapt at the line of scrimmage, the 49ers’ playbook remains a formidable choice.
The Las Vegas Raiders
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The Las Vegas Raiders boast an exciting offensive playbook, brimming with innovative formations for passing and running plays. The Bunch TE formation from the Shotgun aligns your formidable tight ends on one side of the line, providing exceptional blocking capability and creating holes for your running game. Play Action from this formation becomes particularly dangerous. Additionally, Singleback sets like Ace and Wing Tight offer extra protection for your quarterback, allowing deeper routes to develop. The Raiders’ playbook also offers a selection of Read Option plays, including the versatile RPO Alert WR Screen.
The New England Patriots
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Despite missing Tom Brady, the New England Patriots possess one of the most renowned offensive playbooks in NFL history. The addition of Cam Newton introduced the RPO game that was missing for years. The Patriots’ playbook features the Weak Pistol formation, featuring a fullback positioned to the left of the quarterback. However, you have the flexibility to substitute a tight end or another running back for more passing options. With an extensive array of passing, option, and RPO plays, the Patriots playbook caters to those seeking a well-rounded passing assault. Utilizing the Dual HB package in Pistol, Strong, and Weak formations, featuring Damien Harris and James White, ensures maximum productivity. Remember to manually adjust the in-game depth chart to optimize your lineup.
In conclusion, these five offensive playbooks in Madden 22 offer distinct strategies and playstyles to dominate your opponents. So, pick your favorite playbook, prepare your winning strategy, and get ready to conquer the virtual gridiron!
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