Hi everyone,

Although I know that blitz is not great for my chess, I still play it a bit more than I should.  I love to use the French as Black in blitz because the moves seem very natural to me (and my rating is hundreds of points higher when I play the French vs. any other e4 defense).  As I've gained a higher rating I've been facing the Tarrasch more often.  Without too much theoretical study I've been playing the 3...Nf6 lines with great results.  In fact, the three highest rated players I've ever beaten were in the 3...Nf6 Tarrasch.  However, as I've spent a little time lately with the theory I've become less optimistic about it.  I was wondering what the general feeling about the Nf6 Tarrasch is.  Is it too risky for a full time defense?  Is it hanging by a thread like the Winawer Poisoned Pawn?  Is it a defense that gives Black many different lines to consider?  I've done a little statistical research, and it seems that the main lines score fine for Black, but he really has to stick to a narrow path.  Is this correct?  I'd love to hear from some of the French veterans on their opinion of this counterattacking line vs. the Tarrasch.

Thanks for your input,
Scott