Sometimes you spot an enemy Brigade on the other side of the woods in Maneuver column. You have the chance to get his flank without him seeing your troops in the woods. Those situations can appear more often if you use your commanders to scout. But be careful which commander you use. When scouting, there is always the chance that an officer will be wounded.
Some commanders have a superb or legendary rating.
If these officers are wounded it can severely damage the rate at which the rally routed troops. Knowing where to fight is one of the most important things that will determine an outcome. If you have the chance to grab the wooded bouldered high ground do so. You should try to avoid having to attack from lower elevation and the reverse is true. Defend from higher ground if at all possible.