College Football 26 How to Playmaker
Written by Michael Owen
To use playmaker in CFB 26, hold the left trigger (RT) and flick the right stick in the direction you want your closest receiver to move.
This replaces the simpler control from last year, where you only flicked the stick. It now gives more control but takes a little more input.
How Playmaker Works
Signal a Receiver Mid-Play
While the quarterback has the ball, press and hold the left trigger.
Then flick the right stick in the direction you want the nearest receiver to break off their route.
You can send them upfield, back toward the QB, or to either side.
This works in or out of the pocket.
Combine With Scrambling
Playmaker is especially useful when scrambling.
Use it to redirect receivers when your play breaks down and you're under pressure.
This keeps the offense alive and gives you a chance at a big play.
Best Tips for Offense and Defense
Test Every Passing Style
CFB 26 includes four types of passing: Placement & Accuracy, Placement, Classic, and Revamped.
Placement & Accuracy gives the most control but is harder to learn.
Test each one to find what fits your play style best.
Use the Stiff Arm Often
The stiff arm is very strong again this year.
Press it right before contact for the best chance to break tackles and gain extra yards.
Works well with running backs and scrambling quarterbacks.
Focus on the Run Game
Running plays are strong in the current patch.
Use inside zones, power runs, and RPO plays to move the ball and control the clock.
It helps open up the pass later.
Run Tampa 2 on Defense
Tampa 2 is one of the best coverages right now.
It covers the sidelines well with Deep Halves, and Mid Read helps stop crossers and posts.
Use it often to stop passing-heavy teams.
Pick the 3-3-5 Defensive Playbook
This defensive playbook gives flexible coverage and solid blitz options.
It works well against both the run and short passing.
You don’t need top-tier players to make it effective.
Final Blurb
Playmaker in CFB 26 adds a real edge if you use it smart. You don’t need to memorize everything, just hold the trigger and flick the stick when the play falls apart. Add stiff arms, run plays, and Tampa 2 defense, and you’ll frustrate a lot of opponents.
FAQ
Q: How do you use playmaker in CFB 26?
Hold the left trigger and flick the right stick in the direction you want the receiver to go.
Q: Does playmaker work while scrambling?
Yes, it works both in and out of the pocket.
Q: Do you need to press anything else?
No, just left trigger and the right stick.
Q: Can you use playmaker on defense?
No, it only works on offense to redirect receivers.
Q: Was playmaker different in CFB 25?
Yes, in CFB 25 you only needed to flick the right stick without holding anything.
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