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A common mistake when defending the Read Option is overcommitting to either the quarterback or the running back, leaving your defense vulnerable. To counteract this, consider using defensive Mut 26 coins players in spy and contain assignments.

Quarterback Spy: Assigning a linebacker or safety to “spy” the quarterback ensures that even if the QB keeps the ball, he won’t be able to run freely into the open field. The spy player will shadow the quarterback, preventing him from turning the play into a big gain. This is especially effective against mobile quarterbacks who thrive on scrambling.

Contain: Defensive ends or outside linebackers can be placed in a “contain” assignment to ensure that the quarterback is unable to escape the pocket and run to the outside. The contain player will maintain outside leverage, forcing the quarterback to stay inside, where your other defenders can make a tackle.

These assignments are particularly useful when facing opponents who repeatedly run the Read Option or when playing against quarterbacks like Lamar Jackson, who excel at breaking contain and picking up yards on the ground.

One of the simplest and most effective adjustments you can make against the Read Option is spreading and crashing your defensive line. This technique can help you defend both the inside run and the quarterback keeper without overcommitting to either.

Spread the defensive line: By spreading your defensive line (using the D-pad on consoles), you create wider gaps on the outside, which makes it more difficult for the quarterback to run to the edge. This also allows your defensive ends to better maintain outside contain.

Crash inside or outside: You can also crash your defensive line inside or outside, depending on what part of the option you want to defend more aggressively. Crashing inside will buy Madden 26 coins help bottle up the running back, while crashing outside helps contain the quarterback.