Cribbage [variant]

We usually play Cribbage for two players using the traditional rules. Sometimes, we use the following variant (taught to me by Don Woods) to add an interesting option that can sometimes be used to catch up from behind, if a player properly times the endgame.

The dealer, after examining his or her cards, may declare "no crib", in which case, neither player donates cards to form the crib. Instead, play proceeds normally, with both players playing and then scoring a hand of six cards (plus the card turned up).

Note that A) the dealer is giving up a crib (and some points) when invoking this option; B) very high scores can result from such hands; and C) the dealer's opponent scores first. But, with the right hand, invoking this option can sometimes result in a huge gain...