I disagree that this applies in the way that I suggested in the first post. For instance, if I have a group of DL that I trust to be a solid rotation, and don't really care when they play, I don't want to have to set a new lineup for every down and distance. I just want them to rotate in and out so that they are always fresh.
The gameplanning you're talking about applies if I have a really fast DE with good pass rushing skills, but weak run defense or strength. That type of a player I want to make sure is on the field on second and long or third and medium to long plays.
Likewise, if I have a running back with great hands and route, but average other skills, I might make him the third down back. But again, what I'm thinking of is creating a situation where you want players subbing in and out all the time in a particular group without worrying about down, distance, and situation.
I love the situational game, but I also just want some generic subbing ability.