What Scott failed to mention was that if you can't get a saver coach award, rather than paying double miles for the same seat, you need to attempt to book a C or F seat instead.

When my cousin had difficulty booking an AA saver seat LGA/DEN, I suggested he book a first class seat instead; rather than an anytime coach seat.

It still cost him 50k, but at least he sat upfront.
Most frequent flyers don't think to do this (except us).

dh