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131st issue. This one bringing...
Analyzing defensive football strategies using tracking data contrasts two-high and single-high safety concepts, while exploring France's victory in Euro 1984 highlights Michel Platini's leadership. Additionally, the interplay between player quality, managerial tactics, and random factors in soccer matches is examined alongside changes in MLB pitching strategies and the decline of traditional "innings eaters," with insights into the MLS Superdraft's evolving significance.
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This Week's Lineup
Analyzing defensive structure using StatsBomb's free tracking data
Reviewing the evolving strategies of defensive football in response to the increasing emphasis on passing, particularly focusing on two-high versus single-high safety concepts, using tracking data analysis to explore how defenses adjust their coverage pre- and post-snap, with insights into alignments against specific quarterbacks like Tom Brady and trends observed over multiple seasons.
How France won Euro 1984: Home advantage, the magic square and Platini’s brilliance ($)
A detailed analysis of France's remarkable victory at Euro 1984, highlighting their dominant performance led by Michel Platini, the tactical innovations of manager Michel Hidalgo, and key moments in their journey to becoming the tournament's most celebrated champions.
Soccer Tactics and Rolling Dice
A nuanced exploration of how player quality, managerial tactics, and the inherent randomness in soccer matches interact, suggesting that managers' primary role is to either emphasize or minimize the impact of player quality disparities through tactical decisions, with implications for both on-field strategy and analytical approaches.
How MLB Starting Pitcher Usage Killed Off the “Innings Eater"
The concept of "innings eaters" in baseball. Highlighting how changes in pitching strategies, bullpen usage, and player performance have led to a reevaluation of the traditional role of pitchers who reliably pitch many innings, drawing parallels to shifts in television programming towards shorter, more intense series.
The Deepest Ever MLS Superdraft Statistical Deep Dive
Offers a comprehensive analysis of the MLS Superdraft, discussing its evolving significance, the use of analytical tools for player evaluation, and insights into the draft selections of various MLS teams, ultimately reflecting on the continued value and potential impact of the draft in MLS player acquisition strategies.
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