X-factors are typically an afterthought for me until I have my team set how I want it. They can be difficult to activate and don't always work consistently. However, when they do work, they can be extremely powerful. Below is what I typically use on offense and defense and brief description of why I use it.
On defense, I usually mix x-factors between my corners or safeties. I'll typically use universal coverage on my DBs for the extra help with knockouts. I like the concept of fearmonger and unstoppable force, but I find it too difficult to consistently activate these in H2H.
- Universal coverage - The most physical coverage defenders prevent catches from happening even when their target has hands on the ball. When they enter the zone, they are nearly guaranteed knockouts.
- Fearmonger - Some pass rushers intimidate quarterbacks with their sheer presence. When they enter the zone; they can apply significant pressure on quarterbacks even while engaged with blockers.
- Unstoppable force - Elite pass rushers are a mix of strength, speed, and tenacity. When they enter the zone, this ability increases their win rate and block shed speed against one-on-one pass blocks.
On offense, your abilities are typically scheme dependent. If you're run heavy, then I would make sure your RB has an x-factor. I prefer freight train since I typically use a heavier RB (think Bettis or Henry), but if I went with a shiftier or receiving back, I'd use first one free. If your pass heavy, then you can ignore your RB and focus your x-factors on your QB, WR, or TE. I'll typically put an Omaha on my QB, since having the ability to see your opponents coverage pre-snap is incredibly powerful. I typically put Double me on my top 2 pass catchers (doesn't matter if it's a WR or TE). Sometimes Double me can be hit or miss, but when it works, it forces my opponent to double cover a pass catcher or risk giving up an aggressive catch. If they double the receiver with either their user or a CPU defender, it should open up the field for your other pass catchers. If you run a balanced offense, then I would go with x-factors on my QB, RB, and then your best pass catcher.
- Freight train - Freight Trains are relentless runners who refuse to go down on first contact. When they enter the zone; this ability increases their chance to break the next tackle.
- First one free - Some players thrive on making defenders look silly. When they enter the zone; this ability increases their fake out rate on the next juke; spin or hurdle.
- Omaha - Elite quarterbacks are molded by endless hours of film study. When they enter the zone, they have full vision of the seconday's defensive coverage before the snap.
- Double me - Aggressive receivers overpower defenders and attack the football. When they enter the zone, this ability increases their success rate on aggressive catches against single coverage.
