Top 5 Trick Plays in Madden NFL 25

Trick plays, or “gimmick plays,” can be the difference between a routine drive and a highlight-reel moment. While risky, these plays can confuse defenses and lead to massive gains when executed correctly. In Madden NFL 25, knowing when and how to deploy a trick play can give your offense the spark it needs. Below, we rank the five best trick plays in Madden NFL 25 that can elevate your game and keep your opponents on their toes.

Trick Plays in Madden NFL 25

5. Chicago Bears: Shotgun Y Off Trips — HB Direct Snap

The HB Direct Snap is a classic trick play that never goes out of style. In this formation, the snap goes directly to the halfback, who can take the ball outside or cut through the tackles depending on the defense’s alignment.

Why It Works: This play catches defenses off guard, especially if they’re expecting a standard passing play out of the shotgun. It can lead to significant yardage, particularly when mixed into a broader scheme using the same formation. Pair it with the “RPO Read Y Flat” to create a dynamic and unpredictable offense.
When to Use It: Use this play on early downs or in situations where the defense might be expecting a pass. It’s particularly effective against defenses that aren’t stacking the box.

4. Spread Alternate: Monster — RPO Zone Alert

Found exclusively in the Spread playbook, the Monster formation is a unique alignment with only three offensive linemen in the box and two spread out wide with the receivers. This unusual setup can create massive alignment issues for the defense, leading to big gains on the ground or quick passes to the outside.

Why It Works: The formation alone can confuse the defense, especially if they’re not base-aligned. The RPO Zone Alert gives you the option to hand off for a run or throw a quick screen to the outside receivers, depending on the defense’s positioning.
When to Use It: This play is perfect for situations where you notice the defense struggling with their alignment or when you have a numbers advantage on the outside. It’s also effective in short-yardage situations.

3. Carolina Panthers: Shotgun Bunch Str Nasty — MTN Double Pass

The MTN Double Pass is a trick play within one of the best formations in the game, the Shotgun Bunch Str Nasty. This play is essentially a swing screen with the added option of throwing deep downfield.

Why It Works: The outside receiver in the bunch formation automatically goes in motion, catches the ball behind the line of scrimmage, and then has the option to either run or pass. Against zone coverage, this play can easily pick up chunk yardage as the defense often struggles to cover the motion and potential downfield pass.
When to Use It: Use this play when the defense is playing soft or in zone coverage. It’s a great way to catch them off guard and gain easy yards, especially if they’re not expecting a double pass.

2. Run N Gun Alternate — Power

The Power play in the Run N Gun Alternate playbook is not only one of the best trick plays but also one of the best running plays in Madden NFL 25. It features a fake jet sweep motion, which acts as a lead blocker for the main ball carrier, creating opportunities for big runs to the outside.

Why It Works: The fake jet sweep confuses defenders, making them hesitate just long enough for you to hit the edge with the ball carrier. You also have the option to pitch the ball to the motion man by pressing LB on Xbox or L1 on PlayStation, adding another layer of deception.
When to Use It: This play is most effective with versatile running backs like Christian McCaffrey or Breece Hall, who can take advantage of the open field with their spin and juke moves. Use it in situations where you need to gain yards on the ground or want to keep the defense guessing.

1. Miami Dolphins: Pistol Tight Y Off Flex — Cheat HB Double Pass

The Cheat HB Double Pass in the Miami Dolphins’ Pistol Tight Y Off Flex formation is a game-changing trick play. The Dolphins’ “Cheat Motion” offense, new to Madden NFL 25, is both fun to use and incredibly effective.

Why It Works: Similar to the Panthers’ MTN Double Pass, this play allows the halfback to either run or pass the ball after receiving a backward pass. The halfback position typically has more speed, making it easier to outrun defenders or find an open receiver downfield.
When to Use It: This play is best used when the defense is playing aggressive or stacking the box, expecting a run. Mixing it in with other “Cheat Motion” plays from the Dolphins’ playbook can keep the defense off balance and create big play opportunities.

Conclusion

Trick plays can be risky, but when used correctly, they can break open a game and leave your opponent scrambling to adjust. Madden NFL 25 offers a variety of trick plays that can add excitement and unpredictability to your offense. By incorporating these top five trick plays into your game plan, you’ll keep your opponents guessing and create memorable moments on the virtual gridiron. Whether you’re looking for a big gain or just want to have some fun, these plays are sure to elevate your Madden 25 experience.

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