So, how important is a HC?

As I understand it, it is the HC's style that defines your playbook and thereby which plays are available to you. But how different is the play selection from the different styles? Right now I have a HC with a run focused defensive style, if I found a HC with a pass focused style would that really make a difference for my defense?

How important are the ratings of a HC? Do they trump the other coaches ratings?

HC and the OC/DC have some influence on player development but not much. Your HC's offensive philosophy affects the offensive playbook while his defensive philosophy affects the defensive play book, so you need to look at both.

Generally you don't want to spend a lot of time on coaching. You have a lot more influence than anything, so focus on picking the right plays and players. I would pick an offensive and a defensive philosophy first, pick a HC that fits it then forget it.

Thanks for the answers :)

I am just wondering if there is a big difference in the plays available between the different styles of the headcoach?

Not a big difference, but when you scout your next few opponents, check their HC and check their plays and you'll have your answer.

JDB said on one of the tutorial videos that the playbooks differ by about 10 percent between coaching styles.

but it is still significant as the individual plays are far from equal

depending on your HC, you may not have the HB Flare, or not have the great Singleback normal inside running or you miss some of the best defensive plays like OLB Flat Zone or 46 Heavy 2 Deep Man Under or the Nickle Strong Formation.

There is no Coach that gets you all the great play, so it is really a very strategic decision.

And yes, it is nice that a higher rated HC will help your players reach their potential quicker, but for me the selection of playbooks >>HC rating

From the official blog:

https://blog.myfootballnow.com/2013/

Thanks for alle the replies, they helped clear out how the HC style of playbook and ratings impacts the team :)