Just started playing again

[Ragin Cajun]

I've owned BBCF since it's release but have gotten sidetracked with other games, real life and other things but pulled out my copy the other day and started playing again. I usually start with a real low team..this time with my alma mater Louisiana- Lafayette. After a dozen or so seasons of real poor performance I did a search and hired new coaches with a focus on development rather than scouting. I also went real hard after transfer players as they were all better than anything that I was able to recruit personally. Anyway, just took a promotion to North Texas, hired new coaches with again a focus on Development. I usually try to schedule a couple of patsys for early in the season although no guarantee for a W there as my teams are also real low on prestige. Anyway, my best season after 26 seasons is 5-6 (twice) and 4-7. Any other tips, suggestions, ideas to try to get a winner with these low programs? In the past I had the same problems although when I play with a Michigan or LSU or USC program it's no problem to win, compete for conference championships and play in top tier bowl games.

[kennywanchizoate]

The biggest thing to remember in playing with lower level teams is to spend a TON of time in the recruiting phase. The only way you can get your team better is to land that #2500 linebacker who has a ton of speed and good tackling but no hands or pass rush moves, and see that he racks up 12-15 tackles every game. Or that #2789 fullback who is just small enough to move to running back and he's got superior power and can pound the ball inside. That's what I always do when I'm playing a lower tier team, anyway. And if you can afford it, go with the top level recruiting service. It makes you much more efficient and gives you better ratings.

[Ragin Cajun]

I typically will sort each category and only recruit guys with a 50+ rating for their primary category. Example: a RB with a 50+ rush, a WR with a 50+ catch, DE with 50+ pass rush. I never seem to get any interest with anyone in the 60+ range (yet) and no green (3 ***) players, so I don't waste my time. I do gamble during the transfer period putting out a dozen offers, or one per position. Usually sign between 1-3 each year. These tend to be the best players on the team.