HB/WR Passes

You've seen the trick plays on TV, a pitchout to a runningback, who sets up to pass. These plays are in Madden as well, and are also avaiable in custom playbooks, by editing existing plays. Simply add the play with an HB pass, and edit the formation and play as you wish. The only things you should not edit are the QB and the guy who is throwing the pass (or any reverse stuff on a WR reverse pass). The main things you are probably going to want to change are the receiver routes and the blocking schemes. Try sending blockers out ahead of your passer. The custom route trick doesn't seem to work with reverse passes, but feel free to see what you can do with it yourself.

One of many HB passes

These are great if done correctly. The most important thing is to set up the formation to include an extra blocker on the line of scrimmage. For some reason when an HB pass is called the D-line seems to multiply and swarm on your HB. It's also good to send your WRs on short post or streak routes. These are high percentage routes and are good for a 1st down or more. When you run this play in order to throw the ball you have to push the snap button for a second time when your HB has the ball. A fun play is sending your TE on a IN pattern parallel to the HB and this will set up a short gain for about 6-7 yards. Its best to Hot Route your receivers before you run this play in response to the defense. If they are in a run stopping formation or going to blitz the HB pass can make or break your team. Just remember that your HB probably won't have the same arm as your QB - a deep pass will probably be off-target, and your HB won't be able to lob the ball 50 yards.

I mainly only use the HB pass in which the QB sneaks out of the backfield on a route. The QB usually seems to be the only guy consistently open. On the goal line, this can be a pretty good play, as the defense bites even harder.

Anoter possibility you can do with this play is an option-type play. With another back in the backfield, use the custom route option to have him trail behind and outside of the HB. The defense will either drop back in zone (run an option keeper) or go after the HB (toss the ball out to the option man). This may work better if your HB has a very poor arm. Just make sure you run your HB towards the takles, rather than outside. Keep him away from the option man.