I have no problem with the idea of starters not playing in games 1 and 2.
But what with the limited practice and hitting time in the NFL during Training Camp, preseason games need to be utilized. Especially for the 2nd and 3rd string guys who need the playing time to develop and show their stuff, and for the coaches to sort them out in actual games. So giving them lots of time in the preseason helps with that.
To me, I play the starters for a full half in game 3, maybe even a series after the half to get back into the mode of playing, then halftime, then playing again. And then depending on how they do, they may play some in game 4 or not at all. If they are all out of sync on offense or defense, then they play some in game 4....maybe a quarter.
I think some has to do with who the opposing team puts on the field. If the opposing team puts out 2nd stringers, beware. Get your 1st team off the field.Too many guys trying to make names for themselves in order to make the roster; guys who could do dumb stuff and hurt somebody in the process (I saw a bunch of that in week 2). First stringers are simply trying to hone their skills, get in sync, and stay healthy. They have nothing to prove.
I like the idea of game 3 potentially being the ONLY game the starters play in because it limits exposure to injury, and because should a few guys get dinged up in game 3 they have 2 weeks to get well. And, for those who came out healthy, they have a week to get their bodies fully rested and to game plan for game 1 of the regular season.
All that said, you can't over protect your players because then you can instill an overly cautious mindset. This is violent game and I don't think it is worth second guessing about a guy getting hurt in the preseason.
I think McVay has a good handle on it. He's seen it all his life and he's a smart guy. You can be too macho (like that idiot Bellicheat playing Tom Brady so much in game 2........all because it was Philly), and you can be too timid.
