|
I really liked this post - but a huge part of the game that the author didn't mention is that there are almost two related games being played at the same time - the meta game by the coaches, and the actual game by the players. Before each play is run, the coaches decide the personnel package - which players from their team should go onto the field, based on what they predict the opposing team will do. If the offense runs out a jumbo package with a lot of larger, slower players who are good at blocking and the defense runs out a dime package - smaller, faster players to defend against a pass - the offense will likely win on a running play, but lose on a passing play. That is, if the players execute. Personnel mismatches are often exploited for big gains. Then coaches also typically call the plays, although more experienced players will modify the play on the field based on what they see. NFL playbooks are incredibly complicated with hundreds of plays, which can each be countered with the right defensive play. Coaches are guessing what their opponent will do based on the situation, dynamically adjusting their play calls throughout the game, and setting up deceptions that build throughout - for example, one of the most common deceptions is a "play action" that is fake run passing play, which only works if the team has been consistently calling running plays. Coaches must "invest" in running possibly unsuccessful plays that set up deceptions, and then cash in at the right time. Successful trick plays are often the result of running a play multiple times earlier in the game (or even, earlier in the season!) and then modifying it for a surprise. Great players will look for clues for what play their opponent is running, to exploit it. Some of the greatest quarterbacks - like Peyton Manning and Tom Brady - are more successful because of their ability to decode the defense before the ball is snapped, modify the play at the line of scrimmage, and know in advance which receiver is most likely to be open, than because of their athletic ability itself. I think that "nerds" who don't follow football could appreciate the strategic game that coaches are playing just as much as the physical game the players are playing. For people who dislike football because of how it stops and starts, well - between the plays is when the coaches are playing, and it's just as exciting once you start to follow along. |
I watched soccer all my life until 2020 I started watching NFL games and it felt like I needed a mini-bootcamp to learn about the game before I start appreciating it (still learning!) beyond the athletic display.
I get turned off by the stop and start aspect though, especially that they jam in the same ads over and over for 2+ hours, so I guess it's a lot more fun to watch in the stadium or simply watch replays w/ ads stripped off.
I'm very much looking forward to watching my first Superbowl today!