A middle rod will often bump strike rates way up, especially when working some bigger flats or when backing fish into a corner.

I always run the same rods, simply easier for me to have the same to stick out everywhere. BUT, I also always run my middle rod about 5 or 6 feet longer line-wise ... this allows for the plug spread to compress when hitting seams that force the plugs together.

I know some fellas like to run it shorter ... they do fine with that ... the key is to keep it different though. Yes, you want the curatin of death, but if you're untangling all day, that won't happen at all!