Often, the team with possession last is the one that wins the game. This can be a stressful way to take on solo challenges, but it can make them go by quickly. Smart players learn to maximize their possessions: They like to kick off and score before the half, and they are always looking to win on a field goal. Here are the best ways to increase your win percentage in solo challenges, to beat them faster, and to make more coins.
Find a Playbook
Madden NFL 16 has no shortage of great playbooks, so finding one to fit your style should be easy. Most playbooks cover all the basic concepts, so it really comes down to what players you have and what formations you are comfortable using. Head into practice mode with a new book just to check out all your options before starting. Find plays for each situation and develop some formations you are comfortable running and passing from. Against the CPU, quick audibles and hot routes are very valuable, so learn to use them.
Go Mobile
One of the toughest things for the CPU to defend is a dual-threat QB who can beat the defense with both his arm and his legs. If you have a chance, get a mobile QB even just as a backup and put him in him to fool the defense. Poor decisions can lead to turnovers with a mobile QB, so be smart. Turnovers are one of the quickest ways to lose challenges, but with a smart game plan, you can eliminate opportunities to lose possession!
Take the Points
If your drive doesn’t end with a TD, taking the points is the smart option on anything over fourth and inches. While it can feel frustrating to get stopped or to not score a TD, taking the points is consistently the smartest move when taking on the CPU. The earlier in the game you get on the scoreboard, the better the position you will be in. If you are consistently stalling in the red zone, work on some new plays in practice mode for those specific situations.
Find a Mismatch
Depending on your opponent in the challenge, their lineup will have certain strengths and weaknesses. Find any advantage that you have and look to exploit it. If you have a dominant offensive line or a big tall WR, look to get them in good situations to make plays. Every team is different, so taking a second to look for your opponent’s best players with the matchup stick before the snap can be a very wise move.
Chew the Clock
Pounding the rock is an excellent way to defeat the computer in solo challenges. Not only does it cut down on the risk of turnovers, but it keeps the clock moving and limits possessions. Use the Cover Up button to help prevent your HB from fumbling, especially at the end of games or when running up the middle. Consider keeping a good trucking HB with high carry skills on the bench to ice the game. Using the Chew Clock option at the play-calling screen can make those seconds tick off and help the coins rack up.