Adding weather to the simulations creates a whole new dimension for play callers to take advantage of. In the heat, defenses will often have the advantage going into the second half because the offensive line can get overheated and thus perform much more poorly compared to the lighter defensive ends. Numerically this would be represented by a pass blocking penalty for temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Similarly, wide receivers often discuss how playing in the heat makes them feel faster and more flexible, leading to better catching and route running ability.
In contrast, cold weather and precipitation can have disastrous effects on players ability to perform. In the cold, tackling becomes a miserable task where failing grip and frozen fingers betray would-be tacklers. This might be best represented by a tackling penalty for defensive players. In wet and/or snowy conditions common wisdom is that the passing game suffers. In reality, passing in cold weather is often the best thing to do. Receivers know their routes ahead of time, while defensive backs have to react to the receiver, giving a decided advantage to the offense. Defensive backs would take a coverage penalty in rainy or snowy weather.
Given the geographic diversity of the ISFL and DSFL, I think adding a weather-related mechanic is a fabulous way to celebrate the different locations we play in.
In contrast, cold weather and precipitation can have disastrous effects on players ability to perform. In the cold, tackling becomes a miserable task where failing grip and frozen fingers betray would-be tacklers. This might be best represented by a tackling penalty for defensive players. In wet and/or snowy conditions common wisdom is that the passing game suffers. In reality, passing in cold weather is often the best thing to do. Receivers know their routes ahead of time, while defensive backs have to react to the receiver, giving a decided advantage to the offense. Defensive backs would take a coverage penalty in rainy or snowy weather.
Given the geographic diversity of the ISFL and DSFL, I think adding a weather-related mechanic is a fabulous way to celebrate the different locations we play in.