Back to School: Curls vs. Spot
Football is a sport heavy in strategy and nuanced play-calling, and within its vast playbook, passing concepts like Curls and Spot have carved out a space of their own. When we transpose these schemes onto the Madden stage, especially in PML, the differences and applications of these two designs become pivotal. Here’s an exploration of the Curls and Spot concepts, the distinctions in Madden, and the formations and personnel best suited for their execution.
Curls: Direct and Definitive
Route Characteristics:
- The Central Idea: The Curls concept revolves around receivers running downfield to a predetermined depth before turning back towards the quarterback, presenting themselves as a target.
- Stretching The Defense: By having receivers curl up at different depths, this play aims to stretch the defense both horizontally and vertically.
Best Out of: “Singleback Dice or Ace” and “Gun Doubles” formations. With wide spacing, it allows multiple receivers to work the field with their curl routes effectively.
Spot: A Three-Level Assault
Route Characteristics:
- Three-Tiered Approach: Spot generally incorporates three routes: a corner, a curl, and a flat route. Together, they attack all three levels of a defense—deep, intermediate, and short.
- Flexibility: Depending on the defensive look, the quarterback has the flexibility to target any of the three receivers, making it adaptable and versatile.
Best Out of: “Gun Trips” or “Singleback Bunch” sets. The close proximity of the receivers facilitates quicker reads for the quarterback and creates natural rubs against man defenses.
Madden Implications and Optimal Personnel:
- For Curls: In PML, the Curls concept can be used to methodically move the chains, especially against softer zones or off-man coverages. The primary receiver should be someone with high catch rating and the ability to shield defenders with their body.
- For Spot: The Spot concept, when utilized in PML, shines against aggressive user-controlled linebackers or safeties. An agile slot receiver is ideal for the corner route, while a dependable pass-catching running back or tight end can excel in the flat. The curling receiver, usually placed centrally, should be good in contested catch situations.
While both Curls and Spot are grounded in the principle of exploiting space in a defense, their execution and intent differ. Recognizing when to deploy each can greatly enhance the offensive strategy in Madden. By understanding these concepts, players can keep the chains moving, exert pressure on the defense, and create scoring opportunities, whether in real-life clashes or in the heart of a PML game.
