Its all about width, not length

[Michigan Joe]

...of the playing field (what were you thinking?). When it comes to strategy and style of play, I feel that the board width has far more significance than length, here is why:

Playing on a speedier and wider new 308 board (~21.5" wide as compared to ~17" for my slow 620) I saw a dramatic change in play. The wider board allows for devastating wide runs, yet at the same time the field is greatly opened up for a MUCH higher % of recievers burning past DBs, resulting in the need of a revised strategy for pass defense. I find myself having to play a lot of "2 Tampa" (2 deep safties) and I'm working on more corner back zones as well.

I see that many of the highly respected EF fields are speedier than ever and are now playing at greater than 21" and I was wondering if anyone else has noticed any differences with strategy when it comes to a wider playing field with greater board speed. I really love the way the wider board plays and the challenges it creates for defensive coaches.

Open forum, I would love to hear some viewpoints or experiences with how the board affects strategy (and even potentially the setup of your rules).

Thanks,
Joe