How to Use Run Blocking Play Art
You should be checking run blocking assignments every single play. This isn't optional — it's the difference between smart runners and guys who just hope for the best.
Here's the deal: Left Trigger + push Right Stick to the left. That's it. You'll see exactly who's blocking who before you snap the ball.
This tells you everything. Good blocking? Run it. Bad blocking? Check out or be ready for problems. Simple.
When Run Blocking Looks Good
Good blocking assignments look clean. Everyone has a man. No defenders running free.
You'll see your offensive line and backs all matched up with defenders. No question marks. No weird gaps.
When it looks good — snap the ball and run. The blocks should hold up. Make someone miss if you need to. Get busy.
What Clean Blocking Assignments Look Like
- Every defender has a blocker assigned
- No free rushers shooting gaps
- Double teams are working up to linebackers properly
- Backside is sealed off
How to Spot Bad Run Blocking
Bad blocking jumps out immediately. You'll see defenders with no one assigned to block them. Or weird assignments that don't make sense.
Double teams can be tricky. Sometimes they look good but the offense can't get off the double team to work up to the second level. Just like real life — you get stalemated.
Watch for these red flags:
- Unblocked linebackers
- Defensive ends with no assignment
- Double teams that might not work to the second level
- Backside not sealed
The Really Bad Stuff
Sometimes the blocking is just terrible. Double team in the middle, then someone's responsible for blocking a wide receiver. Makes no sense.
When you see this — check out immediately. Or at least know what you're getting into.
What to Do When Blocking Sucks
Two options: audible to another run or use motion to change assignments.
Motion can shift blocking responsibilities. Not always better, but different. Sometimes that's enough.
Example: Motion might take that unblocked defensive end and give him to someone else. Still might not be great, but at least you know the reality going in.
Advanced Pre-Snap Reads
Look for the middle linebacker. If he's not getting blocked — that's a problem. You can try to ID the mic on him to change protection.
Sometimes it works. Sometimes it doesn't. But you knew the situation before the snap.
Even when blocking looks bad, defenders can still shoot wrong gaps or miss assignments. But you went in with your eyes open.
When to Check This Every Play
Every single time. No exceptions.
This isn't something you do occasionally. It's part of your pre-snap routine now. Like checking the coverage or looking at the pass rush.
Call your run. Check the blocking assignments. Make your decision.
Building the Habit
- Call your run play
- Left Trigger + Left on Right Stick
- Look at assignments for 2-3 seconds
- Good blocking? Snap it
- Bad blocking? Audible or motion
Common Mistakes with Run Blocking Reads
Biggest mistake: Not using this at all. Most players just call runs and hope.
Second biggest mistake: Looking but not understanding what you're seeing. Double teams aren't always bad — but know they might get stalemated.
Third: Seeing bad blocking and running anyway. Then getting mad when it doesn't work.
What NOT to Do
- Skip checking because you're in a hurry
- Assume all double teams are good
- Ignore unblocked linebackers
- Forget to check after motion
Why This Works So Well
Knowledge is power. When you know who's blocking who, you make better decisions.
You're not guessing anymore. You see the reality of the play before it happens.
Even when the blocking isn't perfect — you know where the problems are. You can adjust your running style. Hit different gaps. Be ready for free rushers.
This separates good players from average ones. Good players know what's coming.
Making Run Blocking Reads Automatic
Practice this in every game mode. Franchise, online, practice — doesn't matter.
Left Trigger + Left on Right Stick should become muscle memory.
After a few games, you'll read blocking assignments faster than the play clock. Then you're really dangerous.
Because now you're running with a plan instead of just running and hoping.