“Tactical Takeaways-

1. Stunty Dodge

My opponent very clearly demonstrated the ability of stunty dodge in this game. It is interesting to note that regular screening strategies do not hold up well against stunty players. Eventually I adjusted tactics and remembered that the important element isn't stacking tackle zones - like a normal player - but the number of individual tackle zones you can spread out. It wasn't until the last few turns that I started actively trying to do this. This was after I had been punished several times from my opponent managing to wriggle out of tight spots.

2. Score Early vs. Secret Weapons - Stall

Typically I want to score early vs. Secret Weapons, but in this game once it became clear that the weapons wouldn't be hurting us I transitioned to a stall. I wanted to see the chainsaw for as little time as possible.

3. Leap / Pogo Stick

In the same vein as how general screen tactics don't work well against stunties - either do they against Leapers. It also has occurred to me that I don't actually know how leaping works at all. So that is something I'll have to figure out in order to better understand the best ways to prevent it.

4. Error Back Line Defense

Around the end the game I made the decision to put both Black Orcs to one side on the back line. This was an error. I should've had them spread out. When placing players on defense I need to think of what options am I giving the opponent. In this case I put up a giant flashing sign that said "You cannot go this way," with an arrow pointing to the wide open other side of the field. If those players are spread out he essentially has no where to go.

5. Crazy Things Happen, Play to Your Outs

My opponent could've easily chosen to concede in this game after the first half. He was taking the field with 5 players. It would've been reasonable to assume he had no chance in the game beyond this point. Instead he played on. He managed to sack my SPP hunting Black Orc carriers twice with -2D blocks, and he ended up turning that into a wild counter score with dodges and leaps that were very likely to fail. I followed up with an equally unlikely 1TTD. Just a nice reminder to keep playing to your outs. ”