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Choosing a team in Dynasty Mode isn't just about roster strength-it's about the story you want to tell. Do you want to CUT 26 Coins grind for years to turn Delaware into a household name? Revive fallen giants like Stanford or Purdue? Build a résumé at James Madison before leaping to the Power Four? Or step straight into the shoes of Alabama and chase titles from day one?
Whatever your preference, College Football 26 gives you the tools to shape your own coaching legacy. The question is: which road will you take?
If you're jumping into College Football 26 for the first time or returning after a break, the game can feel overwhelming. Passing, running, defensive schemes, and new mechanics all require practice and strategy. To help you get started, here are 10 beginner tips that will quickly improve your skills and help you win more games. Having a lot of CUT 26 Coins will make it easier to win the game.
Passing Basics
Passing in College Football 26 comes down to three main throw types:
Lob pass: Tap the receiver's icon. Best for deep routes when your receiver has separation.
Touch pass: Hold the icon briefly, releasing at half power. Perfect for dropping the ball between defenders.
Bullet pass: Hold the icon fully. Use this in tight windows for quick, low-trajectory throws.
Catching is just as important as throwing. Learn when to use each catch type:
Catch and run (X on Xbox / Square on PlayStation): For catching in stride to gain extra yards.
Possession catch (A/X): Ideal in traffic or near the sideline.
Aggressive catch (Y/Triangle): Go up for contested 50/50 balls.
Spectacular catch (LB/L1): Flashy one-handed grabs-fun but risky.
Most importantly, don't lock onto one receiver before the snap. Read the field, take quick, short gains when available, and avoid holding the ball too long. Practice stepping up in the pocket instead of drifting backward, and always remember to slide with your quarterback instead of taking unnecessary hits.
Running Fundamentals
Running effectively requires mastering ball carrier moves:
Juke: Flick the right stick left or right.
Spin: Press B/Circle. Hold a sprint for a precision spin.
Stiff arm: Hold A/X.
Truck: Flick the right stick up when facing a defender.
Hurdle: Y/Triangle, though use sparingly.
Avoid holding sprint (RT/R2) behind the line of scrimmage. Let your blockers set up first, then accelerate in the open field. Core running plays to practice include halfback dives and outside zones under center, as well as inside zones and duos from shotgun. Don't forget to mix in option plays-speed options are especially effective against average defenses.
Beating Man Coverage
Man defense is strong in this year's game, so you need reliable routes to counter it:
Texas/Angle routes: Running backs can torch linebackers with this.
Zig routes: Consistently one of the best man beaters.
Slants: Simple but effective when run by skilled receivers.
Mix these routes into your playbook so you're never stuck against tight-man coverage.
Attacking Zone Coverage
To beat zones like Cover 2, 3, or 4, use concepts that create high-low reads. The flood concept is a staple: send three receivers to one side-an outside streak, a corner route, and a flat. The streak clears out defenders while you choose between the corner or flat based on coverage. Screens and jet touch passes can also punish defenders who sit in zone.
Defense 101
Defensive success starts with matching personnel. If the offense comes out with two receivers, use a heavier set like 4-3. For three receivers, go nickel; for four, use dime or dollar packages.
Beginner-friendly coverages include:
Cover 2 Man: Strong against most opponents, especially with a good pass rush.
Tampa 2: Keeps plays in front of you and forces short throws.
Cover 3 Sky/Hard Flat: Protects against deep passes while limiting big gains.
Rotate between these to stay unpredictable.
Learning to Blitz
Blitzing adds pressure but comes with risk. The easiest beginner blitz is a Cover 0 man blitz with six rushers. If the running back blocks, cover the middle yourself; if he releases, follow him. Blitzing forces mistakes, but don't overuse it or you'll give up big plays. To buy NCAA Football 26 Coins counter blitzes, keep your running back in to block by hot-routing him.