Jan 12
NFL Playoff Analysis using R
After attempting to learn to code (specifically in R), I’ve finally reached a point where I can work on creating my own figures. I’ve mainly focused on NFL data, using nflfastR. All data pertains to the 2021 season.
These plots are only including the NFL teams that reached the playoffs.
Success Rate Compared to Yards Gained Per Possession
Evaluating the Success Rate (which is given a value of 1 if the series results in a touchdown, and/or gained enough yards for a first down) compared to average yards gained per play on offense. These amounts are averaged out over 18 games.
Evaluation: All the teams in the top right quadrant seem to be pretty efficient on offense. No surprise there, but the interesting one is the Bengals, who seem to be the most productive in the yards gained/play out of the 14 playoff teams. Steelers have no chance.
Code:
AFC Offensive EPAs for their home/away games throughout the season
For reference:
EPA = Expected points added by the offensive team for the given play
Evaluating the EPA/Play during the AFC teams’ home games, as well as away games throughout the year. Rushing EPA is shown on the x-axis, while Passing EPA is on the y-axis.
Evaluation: Not a whole lot to look at, but one of the noticeable things is how well the 5/7 AFC playoff teams are offensively on the road this year. Dotted lines represent the mean values for each variable (Passing EPA & Rushing EPA). Yep, the Steelers are going to get destroyed.
Code:
