Drifting back. Drifting laterally outside the tackle box. All very common problems for beginner to even intermediate level players that lead to sacks in Madden 23.
With the quick block sheds and blitzers hollering off the edge, it can be a natural reaction to drift backwards in the pocket. However, this tendency is costing you games and there are two reasons why:
How To Avoid Sacks In Madden 23
1. Less Time to Throw:
A common misconception is that drifting back will buy more time in the pocket since the quarterback is moving away from defenders. That is false.
Drifting back usually buys less time in the pocket because the tackles will have no chance of countering the pass rush angles for the defensive ends.
The tackle will be unable to seal the edge on the DE when all the DE has to do is swim outside then have a straightaway the QB.
If the QB steps up then the DE will have to do a full circle around the tackle to generate pressure. The tackle can brickwall the DE for much longer when the DE can not just speed rush to the outside.
2. More Time for Defenders to React on Passes
If the ball is placed at the 30 and the QB drops back to the 20 to pass, instead of dropping back to the 27, that is an extra 7 yards of air time on any ball.
Defenders will be swarming to passes they should never get to because of poor pocket presence.
It does not matter if you have the best reads, best route combos, best spacing. If your pocket presence is lacking you will not be scoring as consistently as you should.
Step up and make a memory. Slightly tap up on your left analog stick to step up.
Your Urgent Next Step
Pocket presence is one of the 12 fundamental tips needed to be competitive in Madden.
Next you will need the “4 Tips EVERY Beginner Must Know”. Without these tips, you will stay guessing on how you can progress from beginner to competitive player.
I (Manu) from “TheMaddenAcademy” have taught over 212 beginners like you the secrets on how to get better at Madden. No this is not about e-books. E-books die out in 2 months. Fundamentals last forever.
Are you struggling with sacks in Madden 23? Want more help improving your game? Join the official SGO Discord server for more advice, tips, and help to improve your skills on the virtual gridiron.