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College Football 26 How to Reach for Extra Yards

College Football 26 How to Reach for Extra Yards

The Reach For It mechanic (also known as reaching for extra yards) is a subtle yet critical tool in College Football 26 that can turn close games in your favor. By extending the ball mid-fall or during a tackle, players gain crucial extra inches for first downs, touchdowns, or maximizing short-yardage plays.

To activate this move: hold up on the right stick (R-stick) as your player begins to fall. Timing is essential, as the input only registers during the initial falling animation.

Optimal Situations for Reach For It

This mechanic works exclusively when your ball carrier is falling or being tackled. It’s ineffective if triggered while upright or after hitting the ground. Aim to activate it within the first 0.5 seconds after contact.

  • Breaking the goal line for a touchdown

  • Third/fourth-and-short scenarios

  • Falling forward after contact

  • QB sneaks or dive plays

Player Attributes That Matter

  • High Carrying stat to prevent fumbles

  • Elevated Awareness for consistent animation triggers

  • Greater Strength to maintain ball control

  • Ball Carrier Vision for precise reaches

Power backs and strong QBs typically excel at this move, though any player can attempt it in clean animations.

Common Pitfalls

  • Minimal gains if falling sideways/backward

  • Early or late inputs render it ineffective

  • Risk of fumbles during sideways hits

  • Unreliable in crowded tackle situations

Best used in open-field tackles or single-defender engagements.

Advanced Technique: Diving Extensions

During a dive (X/Square button), hold up on the right stick at the animation’s end to stretch the ball further—ideal for goal-line scrambles.

Mastering the Timing

Practice in Practice Mode using goal-line or short-yardage drills. Refine your timing to execute reliably in critical moments.

FAQ

Q: How do you perform Reach For It?

Hold up on the right stick mid-fall during a tackle.

Q: When is the best time to use it?

Near the goal line or first-down marker during a forward fall.

Q: Which players perform it best?

Players with high Strength and Awareness stats.

Q: Can it cause fumbles?

Yes—side hits increase fumble risk.

Q: Does it work with diving?

Yes, activate at the end of a dive animation.