I emphasized this tip last year, but it remains just as critical now. EA Sports introduced the "switch stick" feature, which allows players to CUT 26 Coins change control of their defender before the quarterback throws the ball. This differs from traditional switching after the pass and gives players an opportunity to position themselves for a game-changing interception.

The ability to switch from a linebacker to a safety or cornerback mid-play creates a considerable skill gap between casual and competitive players. Learn how to anticipate the throw, bait your opponent, and capitalize on their mistakes. Mastery of this feature can completely swing momentum in your favor.

Man coverage comes with a powerful new twist
I've always preferred zone coverage because of the strategic depth it offers. However, man coverage has received a major upgrade in College Football 26, making it an attractive option. In previous years, offensive players could repeatedly beat man coverage with routes like slants, posts, corners, and whips. Even with defensive abilities, defenders struggled to keep up.

This year, EA Sports added a game-changing feature: route prediction. You can now instruct your defensive back to anticipate the opponent's most likely route and shut it down completely if your guess is correct. For instance, if a player frequently targets the slot receiver with slants, you can tell your slot corner to prioritize the inside. If you guess correctly, the slant route is completely neutralized.

However, there's risk involved. Predict the wrong direction, and the receiver may be left wide open for an easy completion. This built-in penalty prevents the mechanic from being overpowered and creates a high-risk, high-reward dynamic. You can even combine it with bracketing strategies to add another layer of complexity to your defensive schemes.

While I still lean toward zone coverage, I've definitely incorporated more man coverage into my defensive playbook this year.

Approach Dynasty Mode with a long-term strategy
Dynasty Mode has always been my personal favorite, and College Football 26 brings exciting changes that force players to rethink their approach. In past editions, it was possible to stockpile five-star recruits year after year, building an unstoppable program with minimal resistance. Those days are over.

During my first season as head coach at UTSA, I made the mistake of recruiting as if it were still the old system. I targeted the highest-rated prospects without considering scheme fit, dealbreakers, or long-term compatibility. Although we finished with a respectable 8-4 record, disaster struck in the offseason. Twenty-one players entered the transfer portal, and I lost multiple key recruiting battles due to EA's new "dynamic dealbreakers."

These dealbreakers force coaches to be more thoughtful. It's no longer about cheap NCAA Football 26 Coins raw talent acquisition; it's about finding players who fit your program's identity. You must also consider roster balance and future needs, as high roster turnover is inevitable. Building a successful program now requires foresight and deliberate planning.