because the feelings of my team will somehow be hurt by ‘running up the score’. Fine to play the backups. No problem holding off scoring in the final minute or two or you can just run out the clock by taking a knee.

But until then, every minute of experience my team gains through continuing to play is valuable. It can be character-building. Coaches and players can get better in ways we can’t during practice. If handled right, it can be motivating and life lessons can be taught and learned.