Written by Michael Owen

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"Reach For It" (also known as chasing extra yardage) is a commonly underestimated move for ball carriers in College Football 26, yet it can be the difference-maker in tight games. This mechanic allows your player to extend the ball forward while falling or being tackled in order to gain additional yardage. You can use this to earn a first down, cross the goal line for a touchdown, or squeeze more yards out of a short run.

To activate "Reach For It," press and hold up on the right stick (R-stick) at the moment your player begins to fall. The move can only be executed at the very start of the falling animation, so timing is crucial.

Optimal Moments to Use Reach For It

This move will only work if your ball carrier is beginning to fall or is in the process of being tackled. If you're still standing, the move won't trigger. And once you're already on the ground, it's too late.

The ideal time to attempt this is during the first half-second after contact, when your runner is just starting to go down.

Key moments include:

• At the goal line to push the ball across
• On third or fourth downs with minimal distance needed
• When falling forward after contact
• During QB sneaks or dive plays for short yardage situations

Best Players for This Move

The effectiveness of the move depends heavily on player attributes.

• High Carrying stat reduces the risk of fumbling during the stretch
• Strong Awareness increases how often the animation triggers
• Powerful players maintain better control while falling
• Ball Carrier Vision may improve accuracy when stretching forward

Typically, power backs and strong quarterbacks perform this move better than lighter or smaller athletes. However, any player can try it, provided the animation starts cleanly without multiple defenders swarming.

What to Avoid

"Reach For It" isn't always safe or effective.

• If the player falls sideways or backward, the reach might not gain much
• Activating it too early has no effect; too late and the chance is gone
• There's a risk of fumbling if hit while reaching, especially from the side
• It’s less reliable in pileups or when multiple defenders are involved

Use this move best in open space or when falling forward with one clear defender making contact.

Advanced Tip: Mid-Dive Reach

If you initiate a dive using X or Square, you can still engage "Reach For It" at the end of that dive. Simply hold up on the right stick as the diving animation concludes. This can help you scrape out a little more distance, particularly near the goal line.

Practice Makes Perfect

Head into Practice Mode and test this move on plays near the goal line or first down situations. Run the same play repeatedly and experiment with different timings. Learn the exact window so you can execute it successfully in live gameplay. Sometimes just one or two extra yards can change the outcome of a close drive.

Final Thoughts

"Reach For It" may not look flashy, but it's incredibly valuable in clutch moments. Mastering the timing can allow you to secure key first downs and touchdowns without needing a big breakout play. Just remember to hold up on the stick and stretch for success.

FAQ

Q: How do you gain extra yards with the Reach For It mechanic?

Hold up on the right stick while falling or being tackled.

Q: In what game situations should I use this move?

Use it near the goal line or when inches matter on first down attempts.

Q: Can every player pull off this move?

Yes, though stronger players with higher awareness tend to execute it more effectively.

Q: Is there a chance of fumbling while using this move?

Yes, especially if hit from the side while extending forward.

Q: Can I use Reach For It during a dive?

Yes, hold up on the right stick at the end of a dive to push the ball further.

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