NFL Teams and Advanced Metrics: A Debate
The recent surge in advanced metrics within NFL teams has stirred conversation. Mark Schlereth, a three-time Super Bowl champion and current Fox Sports NFL analyst, has joined the discussion. Schlereth, who played before these analytics became prevalent, has expressed his disdain for them.
During a recent appearance on Autkick, he stated, “I have one thing: it’s the people of analysis… they’re going to be the gospel.” He seems to believe that the average fan might take these stats too seriously, perhaps without fully grasping how the game really operates.
“You can manipulate those numbers to say anything,” Schlereth argued. He worries that many fans, perhaps wanting straightforward explanations, might not see the complexities behind the statistics.
Last season, all 32 NFL teams had analytics personnel on board. An anonymous survey from ESPN revealed insights about how these teams were utilizing analytics. While some organizations lean heavily toward data-driven decision-making, others, interestingly, seem to be reluctant to adopt such practices. The Cleveland Browns emerged from the survey as the franchise most inclined to use analytics, with their general manager, Andrew Berry—a Harvard graduate in Computer Science—leading the charge alongside Paul DePodesta, their Chief Strategy Officer.
Before joining the Browns, DePodesta had experience in multiple MLB front offices and notably appeared in the film “Moneyball.” Schlereth recalled a past encounter where he argued against staunch analytics advocates, jesting about the practical implications of constantly aiming for two points. He reflected on how the game used to be played during his time, which centered on two core plays and the coach’s approach to executing them.
His frustration with analytics is palpable. “I don’t know how the game works. I don’t know what we’re talking about,” he said. There’s a sense, perhaps, that analytics can feel detached from the on-the-field realities.
In closing, Schlereth described data analysis in football as mere “fluff.” He considers it a distraction—something that may seem significant but ultimately lacks real importance in the context of the game.
