How to Do an RPO in College Football 25

The Run-Pass Option (RPO) is a dynamic and popular play style in modern football, blending the decision-making aspects of the quarterback with the versatility of running and passing plays. In EA Sports College Football 25, mastering RPOs can give you a significant strategic advantage on the field. This guide will walk you through the essentials of executing RPOs effectively in the game.

Understanding the Basics of RPO

The RPO allows the quarterback to make a decision after the snap on whether to hand the ball off to the running back or to pull it back and pass to a receiver. This decision is typically based on the movement of a specific defensive player, often called the “read” defender. If the defender commits to stopping the run, the quarterback can choose to pass. If the defender drops back into coverage, the quarterback can hand the ball off to exploit the lighter box.

Types of RPOs

There are many types of RPOs, each with different strategic implementations, here are a few examples of popular RPO strategies.

1. Inside Zone RPO: This play starts with an inside zone run look. The quarterback reads the backside linebacker. If the linebacker stays to cover the pass, the quarterback hands the ball off. If the linebacker attacks the line of scrimmage, the quarterback pulls the ball and throws to a quick slant or hitch route.
2. Bubble Screen RPO: This RPO involves a run option combined with a bubble screen pass to a wide receiver. The quarterback reads the outside linebacker. If the linebacker blitzes or moves inside, the quarterback throws the bubble screen. If the linebacker stays outside, the quarterback hands off the ball.
3. Read Option RPO: A combination of the read option and an RPO, this play allows the quarterback to decide between keeping the ball, handing it off, or passing to a receiver. The read defender is typically the defensive end. This play can be more complex but offers great versatility.

Steps to Execute an RPO in College Football 25

Step 1: Select the Right Play

When selecting an RPO play in College Football 25, pay attention to the formation and the routes available. Look for plays that have both strong running and passing options. RPO plays can be found under specific categories in your playbook, often labeled as “RPO Read”, “RPO Peek”, and RPO Alert.

Step 2: Read the Defense

Before the snap, identify your “read” defender. This is the player whose movement will determine whether you run or pass. Common read defenders include outside linebackers, defensive ends, or safeties.

Step 3: Post-Snap Decision Making

Once the ball is snapped, quickly observe the movement of the read defender:

• Run Option: If the read defender stays back or moves to cover a receiver, hand the ball off to your running back. This typically involves no additional button presses if you’re using a standard inside zone RPO.
• Pass Option: If the read defender crashes down towards the line of scrimmage to stop the run, pull the ball back and look to pass. Quickly identify your primary receiver and make the throw by pressing the corresponding button.

Step 4: Executing the Play

Executing an RPO successfully requires quick decision-making and practice. Ensure you have a good understanding of the timing and routes your receivers are running. Practicing in a controlled environment, such as the practice mode, can help you get comfortable with the pace and flow of RPO plays.

RPO Controls

RPO Controls really depend on the specific play that has been called. Some RPO plays require you to decide whether or not you want to throw the ball before enough time has elapsed to hand the ball off.

• If you want to keep the ball – Hold A/X
• Throw the ball – Press the Corresponding Button
• Want to run the ball with HB – Do nothing

RPO Playtypes

RPO Read or RPO Glance – RPO Read or RPO Glance plays allow you to have three options. Run with HB, Run with QB, or Pass to a receiver.

All other RPO plays will require you to make a faster decision. You either throw the ball before the window of opportunity to make a quick pass closes or you if you don’t, you automatically hand it off to the HB. These passes do not require you to press any extra buttons to hold the ball, you simply execute the pass before you hand the ball off.

Tips for Effective RPO Execution

1. Practice Timing: RPOs require precise timing between the quarterback and the running back. Spend time in practice mode to get the handoff and pull-back timing down perfectly.
2. Understand Your Playbook: Familiarize yourself with the RPO plays in your team’s playbook. Know the routes and the read keys for each play.
3. Read the Defense: Develop a quick read ability. Focus on the read defender immediately after the snap and make your decision swiftly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Holding the Ball Too Long: In RPO plays, indecision can lead to sacks or turnovers. Make your read quickly and commit to either the run or the pass.
2. Forcing the Pass: If the read defender does not bite on the run, don’t force a pass into coverage. Stick with the run option if it’s there.
3. Ignoring Pre-Snap Reads: Pre-snap, look at the defensive alignment. If you see a blitz or an overloaded box, consider audibling out of the RPO play to something more suited to counter the defense.
4. Overuse: RPOs are effective but should not be the only plays in your arsenal. Use them strategically within your broader offensive game plan.

Advanced RPO Strategies

Using Motion to Create Mismatches

Pre-snap motion can be used to identify defensive coverages and create mismatches. Motion a receiver or tight end to see if the defense adjusts. This can help you determine man or zone coverage and make a more informed post-snap read.

Incorporating Play Action

Combining RPO concepts with play-action can further deceive the defense. Use play-action RPOs to draw linebackers in and open up passing lanes behind them.

Adjusting on the Fly

As you become more comfortable with RPOs, start adjusting routes on the fly. If you see a favorable matchup, hot route a receiver to exploit it. This can make your RPO plays even more versatile and difficult to defend.

Mastering the Run-Pass Option in College Football 25 can significantly enhance your offensive capabilities. By understanding the basic concepts, practicing your reads, and incorporating advanced strategies, you can become a more unpredictable and effective play-caller. Remember, the key to successful RPO execution lies in quick decision-making, understanding defensive tendencies, and maintaining a balanced offensive attack.