The mention of teams "airing it out" with 10-12 passes reminded me of the Panthers - Falcons game from a couple of years ago when Delhomme was injured and Carolina basically ran teh wildcat with Williams the whole game Wienke finished the game 3 out of 7 passing if I remember rightly.
I'm also fairly sure that the kicking team in that situation can recover if the ball goes ten yards. As far I know it's never (or very rarely) been attempted.
Option plays are something that would be cool to add. I'm aware that this forum is to all intents and purposes dead, but I for one have just brought the game, so if you'll forgive me I will be posting a bit to maybe liven the board up lol.