How for play conservative defensively?

[TDiddy8701]

let me first say, I am actually an experienced NCAA player... usually play on heisman and win 90-95% of my online games

my biggest issue is giving up the big play on defense... I'd say 1/2 to 3/4 of the TDs I give up are on long play (40+ yards), no matter what kind of defense I play it seems (quarter or 4-3, zone, or man, blitz or not, etc)

I usually run the 4-3 or 4-2-5 defense... any advice on plays or types of play to play more conservatively and only give up 5-10 yards at a time instead of massive yardage TD plays

any help would be appreciated!

[BTG]

Cover 2 man under & control one of the safeties. Man coverage on everyone with two safeties over the top will help cut down on big plays. Just make sure to match personnel. Other than that? Discipline. Playing in position and under control. That's a very basic answer, but it should help get you started.

[majesty95]

I personally cannot play as a safety. I get pulled out of position and give up big plays.

Also, you listed too many changing variables. Man, zone, blitz, etc. You might stop it 90% of the time with Cover 2 under or Cover 3. But you might give up TDs 50% of the time on blitz or cover 1/0. Figure out what plays are beating you deep and then go into practice and try different defenses against it.

Remember, though, no defense is a one-size fits all solution. If you take away the deep ball, you usually leave open the short and mid passes. You say that's okay, but when your opponent drives 30-40 yards hitting those, you will adjust to stop them and then you leave open the deep ball. Its a chess match and you have to pick your spots. You can't just call Cover 3 every play and be successful against a good player.

[ACardAttack]

I give up usually one big play to a good team a game, and I'm okay with it...feels kind of realistic....with the way the speed threshold is it happens, but it also happens in real life...maybe not quite as much, but it is what it is