Fans have been waiting for the release of CFB 26 since CFB 25 came out a year ago. The game was released to players who purchased the deluxe edition or MVP bundle on Monday. The game will be available to the general public on Thursday. With some players getting early access to the game, they have been able to explore the differences in the new version of the game.
The playmaker feature is one that players enjoyed in CFB 25. It allows them to signal their nearest receiver to break off their route in the corresponding direction. However, how it is implemented is slightly different in CFB 26.
In CFB 25, all you needed to do was flick your stick in the direction you wanted your receiver to go. Now in CFB 26, you must hold down the left trigger and then flick the right stick in the direction you want the player to go.
5 Tricks to Help in CFB 26 on Offense and Defense
#1 Try Out the Different Passing Types
One of the best pieces of advice new players can receive is to try out the different passing types. In the settings, players can choose from four passing types.
Experienced players will likely prefer the Placement & Accuracy type as it provides the opportunity to be as accurate as possible, although it can be challenging to implement. The other options are Placement, Classic Passing, and Revamped Passing.
#2 Use the Stiff Arm Feature
When you are carrying the ball, whether it is as a receiver, QB, or running back, the stiff arm feature is highly effective. It was strong in CFB 25 and that remains the case in CFB 26. It should help players of all levels excel on offense.
#3 The Run Game Is Strong
The run game is strong at launch. As a result, players looking to maximize their offense should run lots of run and RPO plays.
day 1 College Football 26 tips
1) The “STIFF ARM” is by far the best Ball Carrier move.
You want to Spam the Stiff Arm button right before, and during contact
2) Tampa 2 is a REALLY good Coverage right now in the game.
Deep Halves do a great job of Defending the sidelines,…
— Civ (@MisterCiv) July 7, 2025
#4 Use the Tampa 2 Coverage
Defense can be challenging to new players because it is much less straightforward than offense. As a result, finding some good coverages can be the key to your success. The Tampa 2 coverage is quite strong at the game’s launch.
The coverage uses Deep Halves, which does a great job on the sidelines, and Mid Read, which is excellent in the middle of the field.
#5 The 3-3-5 Defensive Playbook Is Strong
Oftentimes, the key to a strong defense is the playbook rather than the personnel. As a result, picking a good playbook is essential, especially for new players.
Early in the game’s life cycle, the 3-3-5 defensive playbook appears to be one of the strongest options available.
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