[JackN]

Seeing all of these posts saying that 1-8, 1-8 does not even out the playing field, look at the winners of IRI the past 3 years (I picked IRI because it was the first event off of the top of my head I could think of that had non-serpentine draft in serpentine years). In 2006, the finals were the #5 seed (71, 1625 and 910) defeating the #6 seed (233, 217, and 1272). In 2007, you have the #4 seed (111, 1114, 2056, and 494) defeating the #2 seed (47, 33, 68, and 93). Last season was #2 (330, 67, 987, and 68) defeating the #5 seed (1024, 1625, 1126, and 1731). Since the move into the 1-8, 1-8 draft format we have seen the #1 seed lose in the semi-finals every year. We haven't had a number one alliance win since 04 I believe (Andy or Chris could correct me).

I have no huge offseason rule changes, I would like to see the amount of carpet around the edges increase by a couple inches to lessen pinning. I also would like to see the empty cells a different color or maybe remove their nylon covers. I am mildly color blind and have had a very difficult time this season picking them out of piles of moonrocks (it took me more than a second to do, but it was possible). If they are more visible and different it will be much easier for referees to spot if a team has two in their possesion. One major rule change, how about scoring a empty cell in a trailer is worth 4 points instead of 2 points. This would add a twist and would add to teams scoring.