You can try to get individual players into or out of the game through situational substitutions using overrides on the depth chart. You can further hone substitution patterns by only calling certain formations (i.e., plays) in certain situations using rules. It takes a bit of work, but can be useful. And can be applied on both offense and defense.
For example, let's say you have a player who is very good at rushing the passer but poor against the run. Using the depth chart, you can substitute him in on 3rd or 4th down and long distance situations, but otherwise use him minimally (other than through him substituting because a starter is fatigued or injured). And you can choose to substitute him only on nickel and dime formations if that's your preference.