SPRING 2024
Analyzing Force in Tackling with the Creation of the Force Over Expected Metric
AUTHORS
Owen Yoo, University of Michigan
Ben Weber, University of Michigan
Eliana Detata, University of Michigan
ABSTRACT
Given the access to valuable play-by-play data through the 2024 Big Data Bowl, we decided to investigate the force generated by tackles. We hypothesized that the force of the tackle is meaningful in tackling success and sought to quantify it accurately. By modeling this metric, which we will refer to as “force generated at the spot of the tackle” against an array of potentially significant variables, we wanted to create an expected force metric that could be compared to the actual force generated on a specific play. From experimentation and analysis, we hoped to generate actionable insights and inspire further research into the relationship between force and tackling in the NFL.
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