The Run-Pass Option, or simply the RPO, is one of the more high-risk, high-reward strategies to explore in College Football 25.
During offense, you’ll mostly call a Pass or a Run. The RPO is a hybrid option where the final decision is made based on the reactions of the opposition defense. Getting it right can earn you yards, but a poor decision could cost your team dearly.
How to utilize Run-Pass Option in College Football 25
There are two decisions you can take when choosing an RPO play:
- Make a run with the running back.
- Keep the ball with the quarterback and look for a pass.
If you want to make a run with the running back, don’t press any button after the snap. Your RB will automatically take the ball and make a run.
If you want to pass using the quarterback, press X/A on your PlayStation/Xbox controller to snap the ball, then press the button of your intended receiver. This will execute the quick pass.
For a beginner, a Run-Pass Option will appear to be pretty attractive in College Football 25. After all, you’re not locking yourself into a specific play before snap. However, mastering an RPO can be pretty difficult. You have to keep an eye on the opposing defenders. Depending on whether they’re going to follow your run or pass options, you’ll want to target the players they let through.
If the defenders are going to leave a gap for your pass option, then you want to target the receiver. Likewise, if it looks like they’re covering your wideouts, then the run could pick up yards. In my experience, a Run-Pass Option works great when you want to make a simple pass/run into the wider areas.
However, always practice this play in open practice before you try to recreate it in a game, as making an erroneous decision could prove costly for your team.