To help new and returning players adapt and dominate, I've compiled eight essential tips to CUT 26 Coins get you up to speed quickly and consistently rack up wins in College Football 26.
1. Embrace the Running Game More Than Ever
Running the ball has always been a recommended tactic, particularly on the road where crowd noise and momentum can shake even the best passing attacks. Last year, the running game could still feel frustrating, especially when facing elite defensive fronts. I experienced this firsthand when UTSA managed only 46 rushing yards against Georgia in a Playoff loss.
This year, however, EA Sports has significantly refined the offensive line mechanics. Linemen are much better at disengaging from initial blocks and reaching linebackers at the second level. For the first time, you'll witness your offensive tackle pancake a safety trying to cut you down at full speed. The adjustments to blocking logic, particularly in inside zone and dive plays, have made running between the tackles both smoother and more effective.
If you find yourself struggling to move the ball, invest in a reliable running back and repeatedly call shotgun inside zone plays. Whether you're playing offline or in head-to-head online matchups, you'll experience much better rushing results than last year.
2. Master the Stiff-Arm Move
With running more viable, it's vital to maximize each carry. In previous versions, the spin move dominated, especially for elite backs like Ohio State's Quinshon Judkins. But this year, the stiff-arm is king. At launch, the move feels almost overpowered and works effectively even with smaller ball carriers.
Simply press A on Xbox or X on PlayStation whenever a defender closes in. Depending on your timing, you can shove tacklers to the ground, break free from would-be tacklers, or fight for extra yards.
I've found the move to be so reliable that I'll often initiate a stiff-arm when navigating tight spaces in the offensive line, just to shake off potential tacklers. While it's not a guaranteed success every time, it's highly effective in most situations and should be a staple in your offensive toolkit.
3. Learn to Use the Switch Stick on Defense
This feature was a game-changer last year and remains essential in College Football 26. The "switch stick" allows you to change which defender you control before the ball is thrown.
Unlike the traditional player switch after the ball is airborne, this mechanic lets you move from, say, a linebacker to a safety pre-throw to bait the quarterback and increase your chances of snagging an interception.
Using the switch stick effectively can create a massive skill gap between experienced players and newcomers. It's a technique that can take some practice to master but pays off with momentum-shifting turnovers.
4. Man Coverage Now Includes Route Prediction
Defensively, I've always gravitated toward zone coverage because of the flexibility it provides. Even when man coverage and aggressive blitzing became meta in previous editions, I enjoyed the chess match of using varied zone schemes to stifle offenses.
However, man coverage in College Football 26 comes with a new twist: the ability to predict your opponent's routes.
This mechanic allows you to instruct your defender to anticipate an inside slant, whip route, post, or corner route. If your prediction is correct, the route is shut down entirely. It's an incredible addition that rewards players who study tendencies.
Of course, guessing incorrectly comes at a price. If you call for an inside slant adjustment and your opponent runs an outside route, the receiver will often be wide open. This balancing act prevents man coverage from being overpowered and encourages strategic defensive play.
The inclusion of this system has already changed how I play. While I'll always prefer zones as my foundation, I'll now incorporate more man schemes, particularly in online games where unpredictability is key.
5. Approach Dynasty Mode with Purpose
Dynasty mode has received some of the most substantial improvements, and it remains my favorite way to play. Gone are the days of stockpiling five-star recruits without consequence.
In my first test run as UTSA's head coach, I reverted to my old habits—recruiting the highest-rated players regardless of fit or personality. We finished 8-4, but disaster struck after the season when 21 players entered the transfer portal. Combine that with missed recruiting battles due to EA's new "dynamic dealbreakers," and my once-promising roster was decimated.
The lesson? You must recruit with purpose. Prioritize players who fit your scheme or meet your program's culture. Pay close attention to dealbreakers like playing time expectations, location preferences, and position depth. You'll also want to plan for inevitable transfers and build your depth accordingly.
This added complexity has elevated Dynasty mode to a whole new level of realism and challenge.
6. Special Teams Matter Again
One subtle improvement that often goes unnoticed is the renewed focus on special teams. Whether it's executing coffin-corner punts, using directional kickoffs to avoid dangerous returners, or practicing your field goal mechanics, special teams can swing close games in your favor.
You'll also find blocked kicks and return touchdowns more common than in past years, making it essential to dedicate some practice time to buy CUT 26 Coins this often-overlooked phase of the game.
