http://www.whatifsports.com/hd/TeamProfile/Ratings.aspx?tid=12331

Mauer is faster and has a much higher IQ. Huff's DEF is much better.

I realize neither player is perfect. Both are recruits during an overhaul of a long-time SIM team with mediocre prestige. Actually, this is true for all my players, and I realize our team DEF needs to be better.

I'm debating starting Huff for the NT. I probably won't just due to Mauer's better offensive and playmaking skills.

probably Huff but I am speculating. I'm guessing his ****** IQ will result in a higher error rate (more fouls probably) but the other guy's terrible ratings will just always suck. 

I am pretty sure Huff is better. But to be honest, I am not sure I would not start Mauer anyways. 89 passing... I mean, it makes a big difference in your offense.

Thanks for the input. And that's what I'm getting at. Which is more of a factor--IQ or DEF.

The fouls issue is the main problem. Against the physical guards in the conference, Mauer gets into foul trouble. None of the opposing PGs in my conference have lit him up. His only "terrible" rating is DEF, but that can be enough I suppose.

I wondered if an A+ IQ and good ATH/SPD could compensate for inadequate innate defensive ability. You're in the right place at the right time, you know where the screens are going to be, you're fast and strong enough to keep up... yet you grab.

Still in the process of getting this team where I want them.

FWIW, I would start Maurer. Neither is a shut down defender, so if that's what you want... well, you don't have one. Maurer is an asset on offense. Huff is not. I'd expect Huff's turnover rate to go up quite a bit playing primarily against starters. 

Thanks Koop.