#253 The Truth About Pro Football Focus’ Grading System
Jan 19, 2024
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Debating the accuracy of Pro Football Focus' grading system, exploring controversies sparked by JJ Watt. Understanding the complexities and nuances of PFF's player grading system. Comparing traditional statistics with PFF grades in evaluating quarterback performance. Unveiling the subjective nature and value of individual player grades in the NFL.
Pro Football Focus grades players based on detailed analysis of plays, providing deeper insights beyond traditional statistics.
NFL players and teams may not fully embrace PFF grades due to penalties, coaching perspectives, and skepticism towards non-player graders.
Deep dives
Introduction to Pro Football Focus (PFF)
Pro Football Focus (PFF) started in 2007 in London by Neil Hornsby with a goal to provide detailed analysis of NFL games for every player. PFF expanded its services to cover all 32 NFL teams and over 150 college football programs. They offer professional services to NFL and college teams, media companies, and run a subscription site called PFF Plus for football enthusiasts.
PFF's Grading System Overview
PFF's grading system involves watching every play from all games and grading players on a scale from negative two to positive two based on their performance. The grading system considers the importance and quality of each play, with plays like successful short passes receiving positive grades while errors like interceptions leading to negative grades. PFF emphasizes that their grades reflect more than just traditional statistics, providing a deeper insight into player performances.
Challenges and Controversies with PFF
While PFF offers valuable insights, some challenges and controversies surround its system. NFL players and teams may not fully embrace PFF grades due to factors like penalties skewing rankings, variations in coaching perspectives, and a preference for internal evaluations. The perceived lack of understanding of in-game nuances by non-player graders can lead to disagreements and skepticism regarding player assessments. Despite its usefulness, PFF grades are viewed with caution by some in the NFL community.
There has been a lot of debate over the last week regarding the accuracy of Pro Football Focus’ grading system. Former NFL players like JJ Watt have argued that the system is worthless, while others have argued that it is necessary. So today’s podcast breaks down exactly how it works and the nuance that needs to be discussed. Enjoy!