This week, we covered everything you could possibly imagine for NCAA Football 14. We provided beginner’s tips, listed the 10 best teams, discussed Ultimate Team at length, gave you a rundown of what you can do in multiplayer, helped you Dynasty Mode and even provided some advanced tips.
In case you missed these features, fear not. We have the best NCAA Football 14 tips right here. Sit back, relax and get ready for some football.
Nike Skills Trainer
Despite your skill level, the Nike Skills Trainer is a nice place to start. Rookie players will be able to learn the nuances of the game, whether it’s getting a hang of the new Stumble Recovery feature – which uses the analog stick to keep your balance – or perfecting running and passing. Veterans, however, will be able to shoot for bronze, silver and gold medals, which come with unlockable Ultimate Team cards that can be added to your deck. Even if you think you know everything, you haven’t unlocked everything.
Getting Into Multiplayer
NCAA Football 14 has a ton of options available when it comes to getting online and competing against your friends. A basic match allows you to take part in a ranked or unranked contest, while deeper options let you take on friends in Head-To-Head Season mode, rivalry contests and even Dynasty Mode. Here, you can compete with others to land key prospects on your team, offering a sweeter deal through points earned with your coach.
If you’re just getting started, head into a quick match-up, but remember to keep an eye on which team the opposing player selects. You’ll want to make sure you have a squad that is just as skilled, if not better. If you’re one of those people that feel the need to win, stick with a higher-ranked team, like the BCS Champions Alabama Crimson Tide.
Also, don’t be a quitter. Your “DNF” – or Did Not Finish – record will be kept track of, and players will know if you’re one of those people that absolutely, positively hate to lose.
Coaching Takes Time
Dynasty Mode is more in-depth than ever before with the addition of Coach Skills and the new Recruiting system. You’ll be able to make your coach a better leader through different areas, including Offensive Coordinator, Defensive Coordinator and Recruiting. Don’t jump out and level up in areas you don’t feel you’ll excel. See what each individual skill can do for you, then spread your points around. Choose wisely, because you’ll begin to see the effects of your play, provided the percentages work in your favor.
When it comes to recruiting, patience is a virtue. You won’t land every hotshot player, but you will be able to build a respectable squad.
The Ultimate Team
With Ultimate Team, you’ll be able to take your squad through both online Head-To-Head Seasons as well as single player challenges. The shop is a magnificent place when it comes to building the perfect team, though some cards are more expensive than others. For instance, Bo Jackson is likely to run a little higher than Alex Smith.
Regardless, don’t be afraid to be a big spender, and don’t forget to take part in tournaments where you can earn special packs. The more cards you add to your deck, the more options open up for you. Soon, you’ll be able to form a team that will put other Ultimate squads to shame – provided you have Jackson in there somewhere. After all, Bo knows football.
On the Field
Finally, there are some control aspects to get accustomed to, and some things you’ll want to keep in mind when it comes to battling on the field.
First, be unpredictable. Don’t go into the same old rut where you pass, pass and pass some more. Soon, your offense will be read, and someone will set up double coverage on a player, resulting in a fateful interception. Check the “Ask Coach” tab of your playbook and go with the recommendations provided.
When it comes to the run, keep a close eye on how the defensive team is lined up, and look carefully for gaps that emerge with the help of your offensive line. Don’t run automatically in the direction the play suggests – you may miss out on an open hole that will give you the chance to head for the end zone.
If you think you’re going to get caught in a tackle, don’t just let it happen – do something about it. You’ve got several defensive skills to your advantage, whether it’s stiff-arming someone, spinning to avoid an incoming defender – it’s rather sweet to see them collapse after a successful evasion – or juking to get back into an open route. If you stumble, fear not. Use the right analog stick to regain your balance.
With these basic tips, you’ll be a champ in no time.
NCAA Football 14 is available for Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3.
Published: Jul 12, 2013 05:23 pm