Beyond the Scrimmage Line: A Geospatial Big Data Perspective on NFL Special Teams

Abstract

This paper uses the LA Rams as an example to explore often overlooked areas of NFL team strategy, focusing on the draft and special teams. The NFL draft plays a vital role in securing a competitive edge, while special teams, although less highlighted, play a crucial role in scoring. However, these areas are rarely analyzed in depth. By leveraging extensive data from the NFL's 'Next Gen Stats,' this study examines both draft performance and special team plays. We developed three models—a classification, a regression, and a hotspot analysis—to better understand player performance and identify strategic improvements. The results aim to improve decision-making and strategy for NFL teams, offering new insights into player roles, the effects of player positioning, and key areas on the field where successful plays occur.