Yes, I've seen it happen more often near the bubble, like you people say. Then once the bubble bursts it just becomes a nightmarish shit throwing contest.

Passive play is dumb though, especially near the bubble. The money is top heavy, and you have to shoot for the moon in order to get the highest ROI possible. I could understand maybe trying to fold your way to a higher pay spot maybe in a larger tournament like the WSOP if your itching for cash. Otherwise it doesn't make sense.