Let's not get too carried away. Without a doubt I am not smarter than anyone on these boards. I have spent a considerable amount of time learning what I consider basic things with the game that (frankly) should be posted in the FAQ and Coach 101 guidelines. Here are some thoughts surrounding this issue:
1. Talent still trumps almost everything. You really do not need to understand much to win a game with superior talent. As a result, it is my personal opinion that recruiting is still the most important aspect of the game. GID reflects real life very well in this area in my opinion.
2. The item we discussed in this thread concerns the basic interplay between formations and the gameplan. I am somewhat embarrassed to say that it took me almost 5 seasons once I returned to the game to figure out this basic question. I am shocked this information is not more readily available.
3. Finally, you need to understand that the information I posted is still just my best guess based on the information I can find and my own experience. I really hope basic things like the interplay between formations and the playbook are explained in detail at some point by the owners of this product.
Best of luck coaches. As always, sitemail me if I can help in any way.
nitros (James)