We just finished preseason in mfn19. During the preseason, it seemed more than 95% of the runs outside the tackles went for negative yards. I haven't run a full set of numbers, so this is just an observation. Is there some strategy to running to the outside that I'm missing? Or do I just need to set my outside runs to <1% of my play calling matrix again?

Outside runs are a more high-risk high-reward play call as opposed to the inside runs, which are more low-risk low-reward. The outside runs have a greater chance to break long but also have a greater chance for lost yards. A lot depends on the speed of the RB and the speed of the LB's (and to a lesser extent the DL) as to whether the RB can get outside. Also they will probably be less successful against a run-focused defense because it gives the secondary more time to get into a position to stop the play, and they are already positioned to better attack the run.

This ^
Sometimes having a speed back is NOT the answer, remember if he's running at 90 mph how is he going to get an old fatty to keep up and block for him? ;)
I have had success running outside with much slower backs (ratings in the 60-70s) and if they have good break tackle as well, you're golden!

Really? I've always found speed backs to be super effective. Even a 53ish rated RB with 100 speed can wreck havoc, although that might also be a testament to my offensive line.

e.g. http://cust21.myfootballnow.com/player/121

One thing ive noticed (in a small sample size) is that it seems like some speed backs are out running their blockers. You guys who have a lot of seasons under their belt can chime in on this.
But if that's the case, that's a really kool aspect to the game.

This would actually make me question the game code more. Before everyone reacts, let me explain. I like fast backs and I like backs that accelerate quickly, but I also like smart backs and backs that are good ball carriers. If a fast back is outrunning his blockers simply because he is fast, then what's the point of the other skills during a running play. If straight line speed is all that matters, I'm better off just running it up the middle each time with a back that can accelerate to the second level before the DL can react and never running the ball to the outside.

Maybe jdavidbakr can qualify this response. Do intelligence, ball carrying, or discipline help a back determine the hole or wait for his blockers at all?

Yes, intelligence and experience mostly, although not really to the degree that I'd consider optimal.

Thanks! I assumed that Intelligence affected running backs some based on some experimentation, but it's nice to hear it confirmed.

As noted, they are more high risk high gain than inside stuff. I've found it mostly depends on what the defense alignment is more than anything else.

True. I've found that teams that use a short (I think cover 2) zone with CBs covering flats almost completely nullify any significant gains