The folks at EA Tiburon just updated the Inside EA Sports blog with a description on a small, but interesting feature that will be in this year's college football game: Auto Pass. The feature looks to be a boon for those (like myself) who enjoy coach-only modes in sports games. As EA's Russ Kirby explains it, this new feature will allow you to turn over QB control to the CPU at any time. Here's what he has to say:

　　A feature we get asked for by some of the more simulation (SIM) oriented crowd is the ability to just call plays and let the CPU make the moves on the field (basically "Coach Mode"). Just calling plays hasn't worked in years past because the Quarterback would never throw the ball so you would be stuck making at least one decision on the field.

　　A new option in the Game Controls Settings called Auto Pass aims to solve the problem. Very simply put when it is turned on your QB will be under CPU control if you just snap the ball and don't move the analog stick. Note: This option is OFF by Default, so make sure you visit the Game Controls – Passing screen and turn it ON when you pick up the game.

　　I'm a fan of coach modes as an alternate mode of play (and as a great way to examine AI flaws in a game) so I'm happy to hear this feature will be in NCAA Football 10. Russ is also part of the team working on the game's Dynasty mode--my personal favorite mode in the game--so here's hoping we hear much more from him in the near future.

　　What do you think of the Auto Pass feature? Is this something you'll use in the game?