1. What is the Anchored Extender?

The Anchored Extender is a pass-blocking technique that allows offensive linemen (OL) to counter power moves like bull rushes. By "anchoring," your lineman plants their feet and uses their strength to absorb and neutralize a defender’s forward momentum, preventing the pocket from collapsing. This mechanic is especially vital against elite pass rushers who rely on brute force to disrupt plays.

2. Executing the Anchored Extender: Controls and Mechanics

To activate the Anchored Extender, follow these steps:

Engage the Defender: Hold RT/R2 (on Xbox/PlayStation) to enter pass-block mode as the ball is snapped.

Initiate the Anchor: When a defender engages your lineman, flick the right stick downward to brace against the rush. Timing is critical—wait until the defender begins their push.

Maintain Leverage: Hold the right stick in the downward position while keeping RT/R2 pressed. Your lineman will extend their arms, creating space and stabilizing their position.

Pro Tip: Combine this with LT/L2 to shuffle laterally while anchored, adjusting to the defender’s movements without losing balance.

3. When to Use the Anchored Extender

Situational Awareness

Power Rushers: Deploy the Anchored Extender against defensive linemen with high Power Move (PWM) ratings (e.g., Aaron Donald). These players excel at bull rushes.

Long Down Situations: On 3rd-and-long or obvious passing downs, expect power rushes. Pre-snap, identify threats using the Skill Stick Preview (hover over defenders to see their ratings).

Play Recognition: If the defense shows a 4-3 or 5-2 front, anticipate interior pressure. Center and guards should prioritize anchoring.

Countering Specific Moves

Bull Rush: The primary use case. React as soon as the defender lowers their shoulders.

Speed-to-Power Conversions: When edge rushers like Myles Garrett transition from a speed rush to a power move, quickly anchor to avoid being driven backward.

4. Player Ratings and Attributes Matter

Not all linemen can effectively use the Anchored Extender. Key attributes include:

Strength (STR): Determines how well they absorb contact.

Pass Block Power (PBP): Enhances effectiveness against power moves.

Stamina (STA): Fatigue impacts anchor sustainability during long drives.

Ideal Candidates: Linemen with 85+ STR and 90+ PBP (e.g., Quenton Nelson). Consider abilities like Post Up (boosts anchor effectiveness) or Secure Protector (extends block duration).

5. Combining Techniques for Elite Protection

The Anchored Extender is one tool in your arsenal. Pair it with:

Slide Protections: Adjust line assignments pre-snap (use LB/L1 + directional input) to focus help on elite rushers.

Double Teams: Direct a guard or tackle to assist anchored linemen by holding RB/R1 and selecting the defender.

Finesse Counters: Against spin/swim moves, use the right stick laterally to mirror the defender instead of anchoring.

Example: If Aaron Donald lines up against your right guard, slide the protection left and buy Madden 25 coins double-team him with the center. Anchor with the guard while the center assists.

6. Practice and Mastery

Skill Trainer: Use the Pass Blocking Drills to practice timing. Focus on recognizing the defender’s initial surge.

Film Study: Review gameplay to identify missed anchors. Look for tells, like defenders lining up head-up on your linemen.

User Control: Manually control your linemen in practice mode. Master the transition from anchoring to lateral movement.

7. Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcommitting: Anchoring too early leaves you vulnerable to spin moves. Wait for the defender’s momentum to commit.

Ignoring Stamina: A tired lineman (yellow stamina bar) will lose anchor battles. Sub in backups during no-huddle drives.

Neglecting Help: Don’t rely solely on anchoring. Use chip blocks from RBs/TEs to weaken rushers pre-engagement.

8. Advanced Strategies

Play-Action Integration: Use anchored blocks to sell run plays, then hit deep play-action passes.

Dynamic Adjustments: If the defense spams power rushes, call quick slants or screens to exploit their aggression.

Tendency Exploitation: In Franchise Mode, scout opponents’ Pass Rush Tendencies (via gameplan menu) to anticipate when to anchor.

9. Conclusion

The Anchored Extender transforms your offensive line into a fortress against power-heavy defenses. By mastering its timing, pairing it with smart adjustments, and leveraging high-rated linemen, you’ll dominate the trenches and unlock your passing game’s full potential. Hit the lab, study your opponents, and anchor your way to victory in Madden NFL 25!

Final Tip: Watch real NFL linemen like Jason Kelce for inspiration—their footwork and hand usage mirror the techniques you’ll replicate in-game. Now go protect that QB like a pro!