In College Football 26 Coins, lateral passes are a powerful but often underutilized technique that can lead to big gains and surprise the defense. Unlike a forward pass, a lateral pass is thrown sideways or backward, which opens up unique opportunities for players to keep the play alive or break free from defenders. Whether you're trying to extend a play, dodge a tackle, or make a last-minute comeback, the lateral can be a game-changer. Here's everything you need to know about how to lateral in College Football 26.

What is a Lateral Pass?

A lateral pass differs from a forward pass in that it can only be thrown sideways or backward. This means that the player receiving the lateral pass must be behind or beside the ball carrier when the pass is made. One of the biggest advantages of a lateral is that it keeps the play alive, allowing for multiple laterals on the same play. However, this also means that if the ball is dropped, it remains a live ball, which opens the door for a turnover. Because of this, laterals need to be executed with care and precision.

When to Use a Lateral in College Football 26

Lateral passes are most effective in specific scenarios. The most common situation is when a team is in a hurry to score, especially at the end of a game. With time winding down and the team needing to advance quickly, a lateral can help move the ball downfield in an unpredictable way, confusing the defense. This is often seen in desperation plays where the offense tries to string together several laterals in an effort to cover more ground.

Another time to use a lateral is when a ball carrier is surrounded by defenders and facing imminent tackle. In these situations, the ball carrier can pitch the ball backward to a teammate, allowing the play to continue while evading a sack. This tactic is often used in third-and-long situations, where the offense needs to gain substantial yards or extend the play to maintain possession.

Lateral passes are also a popular choice in special teams, especially during kickoff or punt returns. The returner might laterally pass the ball to a teammate running in the opposite direction, creating confusion and potentially opening up a new lane for a big return.

How to Execute a Lateral in College Football 26

Executing a successful lateral requires both timing and technique. The key to a good lateral is making sure both players-the one with the ball and the one receiving it-are in sync. The ball carrier should aim to throw the lateral just as they approach a defender, ensuring that the receiver is in position to catch the ball and continue the play.

To make the pass, the player with the ball should hold down the appropriate button for a pass (usually the same button as a forward pass) but aim slightly backward or to the side of the ball carrier. Unlike a forward pass, the lateral doesn't require aiming at a specific receiver; instead, the pass should be thrown to where the receiver is moving. This allows the receiver to stay in motion and maintain a fluid transition.

The player receiving the lateral must be ready to catch the ball cleanly. As with any live ball, if the lateral hits the ground, it's a free ball, and the defense can recover it. For this reason, securing the ball as quickly as possible is essential.

Risks of the Lateral

While the lateral is a dynamic and exciting play, it also comes with risks. If the ball is fumbled or mishandled, the opposing team can recover it, potentially leading to a turnover. Because the lateral is live, there's also the risk that multiple laterals could result in a loss of yardage, especially if the defense is able to quickly react to the play.

Additionally, laterals are not always the best choice in every situation. If the defense is well-positioned or the ball carrier is already in a good position to make a forward pass, opting for a lateral might not be the most effective decision.

The lateral is a valuable tool in buy NCAA 26 Coins that, when used correctly, can create unexpected plays and surprise the defense. Whether used in end-of-game scenarios, when evading tackles, or in special teams situations, the lateral adds an element of excitement to the game. However, it's important to execute the pass with precision and timing to avoid turnovers and maximize its effectiveness. By practicing the lateral, players can improve their ability to keep plays alive and make game-changing moves when it matters most.