Gen 3 with motor plate location

i wish i could help you, but this is out of my comfort zone
i know the stock V8s are off set (and that is why the pinion is offset)
personally, thats what i would go for, get the crank centerline in line with the pinion

then move it as far back as possible for weight distribution and accessory room up front

did you check some of the builds allready in progress?
im sure someone tackled this before (maybe not with a engine plate, but same principles apply)