Madden 24: Best Defensive Playbooks

Although we all want to score touchdowns and make great offensive plays, you can't win a game without good defense. After all, as the old adage goes, “defense wins championships” and that statement stands true in Madden NFL 24. So, how can you play good defense in EA's latest football game? The most important component is the defensive playbook you choose.

Many beginners are unaware of the impact offensive playbooks and, even more so, defensive playbooks have on their games and matchups. That's why we've compiled this list of the best defensive playbooks in Madden NFL 24. So, if you want to stop the opposition from running up the score on you, these playbooks have your back.

5. Las Vegas Raiders

Some may be shocked to see the defensive playbook of the Las Vegas Raiders included on this list. Their playbook, on the other hand, contains nearly every defensive option imaginable. They have the most options for 4-3 and 3-4 formations. On top of that, they have the Nickel 3-3 Cub, which is a formation that's a fan favorite and a must-have. To top it all off, they're one of the only teams on this list with the Big Nickel Over G plays, 24 of them to be exact, which are great for putting some pressure on the quarterback.

As a result, if you're not sure which playbook to go with, the Las Vegas Raiders playbook is filled with good options. That being said, it can be a little overwhelming for players who aren't completely comfortable on defense. That's why we've got you covered with a defensive playbook that's a little easier to grasp.

4. Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks have arguably the friendliest defensive playbook for newcomers. Their playbook primarily consists of Nickel options, such as the Nickel 3-3 and Nickel 3-3 Cub – the one formation that's a must in this list of the best defensive playbooks. As a result, there are a lot of great picks in the Seattle Seahawks defensive playbook for setting up safe defensive formations.

At the same time, this playbook includes a few other possibilities, such as 3-4 Odd and Nickel 2-4 sets, which can help switch things up and assist in stopping a more aggressive offensive. Nonetheless, the Seahawks have one of the best defensive playbooks in the game if you want to play it safe. On the other hand, if you want to be more aggressive on defense, read on to our next option.

3. Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears defensive playbook is one of the best in the game, depending on how you use it and who you use it against. That's because, while they do have safe options, their defensive playbook prioritizes pressuring the quarterback and, as a result, doesn't allow offensive plays to set up. So, while it's wonderful for putting pressure on the quarterback, if he manages to sneak the ball past your overload, there's not much defense to back you up.

That's why we highly recommend using this playbook against a team with a weak quarterback or if you know your opponent will prioritize their run game. However, use it against a team like the Kansas City Chiefs who have Patrick Mahomes, and you will most likely get exposed by their elite passing offense. So, while this is one of the best defensive playbooks in the game, it's a bit of a high-risk high reward.

2. Kansas City Chiefs

The Kansas City Chiefs boast not just the best offensive playbook in the game, but also one of the best defensive playbooks. The key difference is that their playbook lacks the 3-3 Nickel Cub formation. We know we emphasized the significance of this formation, but the Chiefs Dollar 3-2 formation compensates for it. With the Dollar 3-2, there are a slew of techniques that will put a stop to short-term gains, whether that be a run or pass.

This playbook also includes the Nickel 3-3 and Nickel Over, which are great for covering zones. On top of that, Cloud Flats is the best defensive play you can call on a third and long, which tends to happen a lot. Nonetheless, while the Chiefs have one of the best defensive playbooks in the game, there is another option that includes all these best defensive plays, and more.

1. 46 Defense

The 46 Defense is one of the alternate defensive playbooks in Madden NFL 24, and it consists of some of the best defensive plays in the game. Starting with the must-have defensive formations, the Nickel 3-3 and Nickel 3-3 Cub formations. Furthermore, there are a few Nickel Over G and Dollar 3-2 formations that include some of the best zone and blitz formations too. As a result, the 46 Defense is one of the best defensive playbooks in Madden NFL 24 because it contains everything and more. But its benefits don't stop there.

For some reason, the 46 Defense playbook, unlike other defensive playbooks, grants you Madden points when you use it. So, if you're chasing Madden packs, then you'll want to use this playbook in almost every game to milk the most virtual credits you can.

The best part is that you don't have to sacrifice your defensive play to get them because the 46 Defense is one of, if not the best defensive playbook in the game. So, whether you're new to the game, or a veteran, the 46 Defense will never steer you wrong.

So, what's your take? Do you agree with our top five? Are there other defensive playbooks you think are best? Let us know in the comments below or over on our socials here!