how to read the run-play art | madden 24
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Madden NFL 24: How to Read the Run Play Art at the Line of Scrimmage

Read the defense and make better play decisions in Madden 24.

Before we get started on this guide, it’s important to know that this guide is only for Madden NFL 24 players who play the game on All-Pro and lower levels and need to know how to read the play art when running a rush play and giving all of the pre-snap controls. If you are playing on All-Madden, you already have the keen eye to read a defensive setup and know how to adjust your offensive play accordingly.

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How to Read the Run-Play Art at the Line in Madden NFL 24

To read the run-play art at the line and before the snap, you must hold in L2 (LT for Xbox users). Depending on what play type you are running, when you hold down L2, you’ll see the running routes of all your receivers, the direction of the running route if you are rushing the ball, as well as what side of the defense will be weaker and better side to attack.

There will be two color blocks behind the defensive line that will show green and red on either side. The green block indicates what’s the best running route and where your offensive linemen match up or better the defensive linemen on the opposition’s end. The red block displays where your run will most likely be stopped and not be successful, therefore resulting in yards lost or no yards gained.

Additionally, there are moments when both blocks will display either both green or both red, depending on the defensive setup. If there are two green blocks, your chances of a successful run play will increase. If both blocks exhibit red, your chances of a successful run are low, which should influence a change in play.

All Offensive Pre-Play Controls in Madden NFL 24

There are two types of pre-play layouts in Madden 24. Pre-play and advanced pre-play; these controls can be used before the snap. Use these controllers to your advantage on every play and improve your offensive game. The offensive pre-play controls are as follows:

Pre-Play Offense

Button FunctionButton
To Display Momentum Factors/X-Factors VisionHold R2
To Snap the Ball to the QuarterbackPress X
Show Play ArtL2
To Display Pre-Play Menu (To Remove Pre-Play Menu)Press R3 (Press R3 Again)
To Call a TimeoutPress the Touch Pad

Advanced Pre-Play Offense

Button FunctionButton
To Call an AudibleHold Square
To Switch to Hot RoutesPress Triangle
For the Pass Protection OptionPress L1
To Fake SnapPress R1
To Switch PlayerPress Circle
To Search and Select A Different PlayerHold the Circle Button and Select with the Left Stick
To Lock on a PlayerClick L3 Twice
To Motion a Selected Player (Option 1)Press and Hold L/R on Left Analog
To Motion a Selected Player (Option 2)Press left/right on the D-Pad
To Flip a Run PlayFlick left/right on the Right Analog Stick
To Zoom the Camera In or OutPress Up or Down on the D-Pad

Now that you know how to do more pre-snap, it will be easier to make offensive decisions and play selection. In return, it helps players read the opposition’s defense better over time. A win-win. If you want to learn a pass play, you can read: Madden NFL 24: Best Times to Make a Touch Pass Throw 


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About the Author

Ashley Anthony

Ashley is a Freelance Contributor for Prima Games and has been writing content for the web for eight years and counting, striving to provide readers with the best content possible. Ashley has recently entered the realm of video game journalism, starting his journey in 2022 and focuses on most of the sports video game titles such as Madden NFL, EA Sports PGA Tour, EA Sports FC, and more. Other genres that Ashley focuses on are RPGs, FPS, Action, Adventure, and Stealth games.