1. After a Successful Running Play
If your offense has been running the ball successfully, the defense will likely anticipate another run on CFB 25 Coins first down. This makes it the perfect time for a play-action pass. The defense will stack the box, looking to stop the run, and your quarterback can exploit the opening for big yardage through the air.
Example: If you just gained 5+ yards on the previous run play, the defense will likely load up to stop the next run. A well-timed play-action will take advantage of that overcommitment and give your receivers a chance to get open downfield.
2. When You’re In Control of the Game
Play-action works best when you have the momentum and the defense is trying to catch up. If you’re ahead and the defense is desperate to stop the offense, they’ll focus on stopping the run to get the ball back. Play-action on first down can create opportunities for big plays and demoralize the defense.
Example: If you’re up by a couple of scores, the defense may become overly aggressive in stopping the run to prevent the clock from ticking away, which opens up space for passing lanes on play-action.
3. After a Big Running Gain
Following a big run (e.g., a 20+ yard rush), the defense will likely tighten up and focus on preventing the run, believing that you’re on a roll with the ground game. This is when play-action becomes especially potent, as defenders are expecting another handoff. This creates a perfect window to throw deep or attack intermediate routes down the field.
Example: If your running back just broke off a long run, defenders will try to avoid giving up another big play on the ground, and your play-action pass will catch them out of position.
4. On Early Downs in a Balanced Offense
If your offense is balanced and mixes both run and pass plays well, play-action on first down becomes a natural part of the playcalling rhythm. A well-balanced offense keeps the defense guessing, making it harder for them to load up on one side of the ball.
Example: In a spread offense, if the defense hasn’t fully committed to stopping the run, using play-action will confuse them by keeping their attention split between the run and the pass, especially when you’ve had success running the ball previously.
5. Against an Aggressive Defense
Play-action is particularly effective against aggressive defenses that overcommit to the line of scrimmage. If the defense consistently attacks the backfield to disrupt running plays, a fake handoff will pull defenders out of position and give your quarterback time to find open receivers.
Example: If your opponent’s linebackers or safeties frequently blitz on early downs, play-action will take advantage of that aggression, forcing them to second-guess their rush and leaving them vulnerable to cheap College Football 25 Coins passing lanes.