For improved performance, practical video encoders integrate algorithms for screen content detection and rate control. This paper outlines recently implemented optimizations to both the screen content classifier (SCC) and two-pass rate control (RC) of VVenC, an open Versatile Video Coding (VVC) compliant encoder. The improvements, confirmed by evaluation experiments in random-access configurations using an extended set of test videos, are mainly achieved by leveraging motion error statistics acquired during motion compensated temporal pre-filtering (MCTPF), carried out in VVenC’s pre-analysis stage. All three aspects – pre-analysis stage, SCC, and RC – are revisited herein, and the exploitation of MCTPF data is described.