As a general rule, I like to load up on high-value playmakers at WR and TE, invest heavily in a QB with a strong arm and accurate passing skills, and stock my defense with high-potential but inexpensive players year after year. I like to have a solid quarterback, two wide receivers, a running back, a tight end, and four of the greatest defensive players I can locate on my squad. My QB, RB, TE, 2WR, K, color by number 4 Defensive players combination gives me the greatest potential to make plays on offense (where you have the most agency because you get to play it yourself) while keeping my defense mostly competent. I tried fitting in a backup QB in there because losing your QB can have a huge impact on what plays you can make, and I tried making room for an OL, and I tried running five defensive players.

Three, if you want to avoid losing via turnovers, you could try tossing the ball over their heads.
A common theme in football, and notably in Retro Bowl, is that the player with the fewest penalties is the victor.