Tom, I will try to answer that and...
it is definitely good to see you in a league that will use "The Box". Usually, once a league uses it, they will never go back to any other simulation method. This has been our experience. So thanks for at least trying it.
There are two rules of thumb here. The Box is used at a coaches discretion and it separates Rookies from Veterans.
In most leagues, the Box is shaken on every play. The thought being is that something good does not happen for both teams on every play. For instance, if a team gains a positive 3 yards, is that good for the defense or is that good for the offense. I guess it depends more on down and distance. So one team should be telling the official to "Shake it up" depending on the down and distance.
What makes the Shootout style so exciting is it makes you aware of everything around you. It sharpens your skills because no crutches are used to matriculate the field to score the ball. So in doing so, you have to always stay aware of the potential for penalties, injuries, or fumbles. This constant uncertainty keeps you motivated to try to hurry up and score. You know, it's just a matter of time for a veteran coach to get a call against you. With the simulation of the box, we look at it as "Hoping the players can strip the ball or seeing a clip or holding to nullify a drive." Rookies forget these things. As they sharpen their skills in this method, they begin to see the importance of shaking up the box. It's a 50-50 proposition at that point. But until then, the rookies chances are less. Once the rookies understand its use, they "have arrived in the Shootout ways". With you having anywhere from 80-100 opportunities to shake the box, even a rookie will have his chances. The laws of averages gives even the most inept players chances (and that's what we want).
The funny thing is Tom, I know I can't convince you about what's fair. You will have to experience it to see for yourself. If you guys are able to get off a great amount of plays, it will truly give you chances. And yes, if you are playing in a league where it's new to every one, shaking it on every play evens up the playing field. But the reality is, everyone is not even in this game and you should have some players better than others and sometimes, this is distinguished by who knows when to "Shake that thang" or "the Showstopper" because it is not always black or white.
Reg
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