[Nemo]

Here's another one that bothers me: we shouldn't lengthen the build season, because teams just waste the first part of it anyway, in spite of working hard during that period of time.

Here's what is in question:
1) Would the longer season result in worse burnout?
2) If so, is improved robot performance worth the cost?

Here's what is not in question:
1) Would a longer season result in better robot performance?

You can argue that some teams will insist on shooting themselves in the foot no matter what by wasting time or following bad processes or designing beyond their means, but why on earth would that sort of pessimism be the basis for the FRC rules? If you think the longer season wouldn't improve robots due to complacency when the deadline isn't close enough, then FRC might as well shorten the season. Or teams can simply take the first two weeks of the season off and find out if it makes any difference.