Sunday, October 26, 2025
Submit Press Release
Got Action
No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • Football
  • Basketball
  • NCAA
    • NCAA Football
    • NCAA Basketball
    • NCAA Baseball
    • NCAA Sport
  • Baseball
  • NFL
  • NBA
  • NHL
  • MLB
  • Formula 1
  • MMA
  • Boxing
  • Tennis
  • Golf
  • Sports Picks
  • Home
  • Football
  • Basketball
  • NCAA
    • NCAA Football
    • NCAA Basketball
    • NCAA Baseball
    • NCAA Sport
  • Baseball
  • NFL
  • NBA
  • NHL
  • MLB
  • Formula 1
  • MMA
  • Boxing
  • Tennis
  • Golf
  • Sports Picks
Got Action
No Result
View All Result

10 Game-Changing College Football Visualizations Backed by Data

September 10, 2025
in NCAA Sport
0 0
0
Home NCAA Sport
Share on FacebookShare on Twitter


We all love the scoreboard, but sometimes it doesn’t tell the whole story. That’s where data visualizations come in. They bring out the trends, the truths, and the surprises that raw box scores can’t capture.

Here are ten of my favorite charts, built from opponent-adjusted metrics and team-level data, that offer a deeper look into how the game is really played from both sides of the ball.

1. Success Rate: Standard Downs vs. Passing Downs

This pair of charts shows how teams perform in different game situations. Offensively, it’s about staying efficient whether you’re ahead of schedule or in a hole. Defensively, it’s about getting stops when it matters most.

Offense

Teams in the top right are effective on both standard and passing downs. The bottom left highlights units that struggle to stay on track or recover from setbacks.

Defense

On the defensive side, top-left teams shut down early-down runs and force passing situations but then struggle. Those in the bottom right may clean up on 3rd-and-long but struggle to contain base plays.

2. Line Yards vs. EPA per Rush

How much push does your line get, and what are your backs doing with it? And on defense, are you stonewalling rushers or getting gashed despite contact?

Offense

This chart compares line yards (blocking effectiveness) to rushing EPA (actual value). Teams in the top-left are relying on their playmakers to bail out their lethargic run game. Teams on the bottom-left are getting consistent push but not enough to spring explosive plays.

Defense

Defensively, it’s about limiting both initial yardage and big-play potential. Teams in the top-right are stone walls, stuffing runs and denying explosive plays. Top-left teams are your classic bend-don’t-break defenses.

3. 3rd Down Success vs. Average Distance

Success on 3rd down isn’t just about execution, it’s also about setting yourself up with manageable situations. These charts break down how offenses and defenses handle the money down.

Offense

Elite teams convert often and avoid long-yardage scenarios. High success, low distance is the sweet spot. Teams above the trendline are what you would call clutch. They convert more often than you would expect given the average distance to go.

Defense

Strong defenses force longer 3rd downs and keep conversion rates low. Teams above the trendline hold firm on 3rd down more often than expected. These defensive coordinators are earning their paycheck.

4. Rushing Style: Line Yards vs. Highlight Yards

These charts reflect rushing identity. Offenses may grind out consistent gains or rely on splash plays. Defenses may force teams into low-efficiency runs or give up explosive gains.

Offense

Teams in the top right have both push and explosiveness. Upper-left teams are high-risk, high-reward. Lower-right teams grind it out but lack big-play potential.

Defense

Great defenses show up in the top right, limiting both consistent gains and explosive plays. Penn State was fantastic last season against the run. Struggling units trend toward the bottom right.

5. Dominating the Trenches

Winning up front still wins games. This chart shows which teams are physically controlling the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball.

Offense vs. Defense

This combo plot shows offensive line yards gained vs. defensive line yards allowed. Top-right teams are trench kings who win both sides of the battle. Bottom-left teams are getting bullied around on both sides of the ball and may need to rethink their physical identity.

6. Recruiting vs. NFL Draft Output

Having top talent is great. Developing it into draft picks is even better. This chart doesn’t break down any game statistics or metrics, but it tells a powerful story.

Some programs overachieve and produce pros from modest classes. Others underdeliver despite recruiting success. Michigan and Georgia stand out as elite in both talent acquisition and development. Texas A&M and Clemson stand out for quite different reasons.

7. Net Success Rate by Half

Who gets better as the game goes on? This charts capture how teams perform before and after halftime, showing coaching adjustments, depth, and late-game execution.

Top-right teams are consistently good all game. Upper-left teams improve throughout the game. Lower-right teams start strong but fade.

8. Average Starting Field Position

It’s not just about scoring, it’s about controlling the field. Field position tells the hidden story of efficiency and control. These charts map where teams tend to spend their time on both sides of the ball.

Top-right teams spend the bulk of their time on the opponent’s side of the field when they have the ball and far away from their own end zone when they don’t. Teams in the bottom left are usually pinned up against their own goal line, whether they have the ball or not.

9. Field Goal Expected Points

This chart shows the expected point value of a field goal attempt by distance, based on outcomes for a replacement-level kicker. Short kicks (under 30 yards) are nearly automatic, but value drops quickly beyond 40 yards and attempts beyond 50 often return less than 2 points on average.

It’s a powerful reminder that not all “field goal range” is created equal. Coaches must weigh field position and down-distance against the real expected return, not just the hope of three. Kicking talent matters as well, as the curve for an above-average kicker will be more elongated than this one. For a below-average kicker, the curve will drop off much sooner and harsher.

10. Returning Production: Usage vs. EPA

This one stands on its own. While we don’t have a defensive counterpart, it’s still a powerful preseason predictor.

We chart returning usage (volume) and total EPA (impact) from last season. Teams high in both are not just experienced, they’re returning proven performers.

All of the charts above are based on data from last season (2024), using opponent-adjusted metrics to give a clearer picture of team performance. As the 2025 season unfolds, I’ll be posting updated versions of many of these visuals, along with some others, each week.

You can follow along on Twitter/X and Bluesky, where I share fresh charts, insights, and data stories throughout the season.

Dig Deeper

These charts are just a sample of what’s possible with the tools at CollegeFootballData.com. Whether you’re building models, prepping picks, or just watching smarter, we’ve got the data to give you an edge.

Explore more visuals and toolsTry the free or paid tiers of the APIJoin Discord to share your own charts and nerd outSubscribe on Patreon to unlock more API calls and features

Built with curiosity. Powered by data.



Source link

Tags: backedcollegeDatafootballgamechangingVisualizations
Previous Post

Canada: Masters Coaching Expression Of Interest

Next Post

Connelly Early fans 11 in 5 shutout innings of Red Sox debut

Related Posts

Virginia vs. UNC: Tar Heels lose as 2-point conversion comes up inches short in OT
NCAA Sport

Virginia vs. UNC: Tar Heels lose as 2-point conversion comes up inches short in OT

October 25, 2025
Top-25 and Big 12 college football schedule, TV
NCAA Sport

Top-25 and Big 12 college football schedule, TV

October 25, 2025
Five Week 9 CFB matchups most likely to end in an upset
NCAA Sport

Five Week 9 CFB matchups most likely to end in an upset

October 25, 2025
Cam Newton warns Carson Beck not to throw teammates under the bus
NCAA Sport

Cam Newton warns Carson Beck not to throw teammates under the bus

October 24, 2025
BYU’s Rise, Arizona State’s Streak, and the Race to Arlington
NCAA Sport

BYU’s Rise, Arizona State’s Streak, and the Race to Arlington

October 24, 2025
College football best bets Week 9: Washington to cover vs. Illinois and 6 more spread bets
NCAA Sport

College football best bets Week 9: Washington to cover vs. Illinois and 6 more spread bets

October 24, 2025
Next Post
Connelly Early fans 11 in 5 shutout innings of Red Sox debut

Connelly Early fans 11 in 5 shutout innings of Red Sox debut

NHL Rumors: Sidney Crosby, and the Montreal Canadiens

NHL Rumors: Sidney Crosby, and the Montreal Canadiens

  • Trending
  • Comments
  • Latest
Lee Trevino says this is crucial for solid contact on pitch shots

Lee Trevino says this is crucial for solid contact on pitch shots

August 26, 2025
Another listless, flat tire of a performance – Dodgers Digest

Another listless, flat tire of a performance – Dodgers Digest

August 21, 2025
Is Texas making the right call with reported coaching change?

Is Texas making the right call with reported coaching change?

March 24, 2025
How to Buy COTA Tickets – 2025 United States Grand Prix

How to Buy COTA Tickets – 2025 United States Grand Prix

March 12, 2025
Arthur Jones, who won a Super Bowl with the Ravens, dies at 39

Arthur Jones, who won a Super Bowl with the Ravens, dies at 39

October 4, 2025
Marte, Steer power Cincinnati Reds over Pittsburgh, 14-8

Marte, Steer power Cincinnati Reds over Pittsburgh, 14-8

August 10, 2025
Anthony Davis could return to Mavericks’ lineup during upcoming Eastern road trip: Report

Anthony Davis could return to Mavericks’ lineup during upcoming Eastern road trip: Report

487
Avious Griffin Highlights Boxing Insider Promotion’s Card By Stopping Jose Luis Sanchez In 9.

Avious Griffin Highlights Boxing Insider Promotion’s Card By Stopping Jose Luis Sanchez In 9.

42
Getting with the programme | Arseblog … an Arsenal blog

Getting with the programme | Arseblog … an Arsenal blog

6
Indiana’s Week 9 win shows why it’s a legitimate title contender

Indiana’s Week 9 win shows why it’s a legitimate title contender

0
Lakers’ Doncic scores 49 to extend sizzling start in win over Timberwolves

Lakers’ Doncic scores 49 to extend sizzling start in win over Timberwolves

0
MLBPA’s Clark says safety concerns up amid NBA gambling scandal

MLBPA’s Clark says safety concerns up amid NBA gambling scandal

0
Blue Jays Notes: Bichette, Bassitt, Mattingly

Blue Jays Notes: Bichette, Bassitt, Mattingly

October 25, 2025
Lens vs Marseille Highlights and Goals

Lens vs Marseille Highlights and Goals

October 25, 2025
Indiana’s Week 9 win shows why it’s a legitimate title contender

Indiana’s Week 9 win shows why it’s a legitimate title contender

October 25, 2025
Catch up on FP3 from Mexico as Lando Norris tops the timesheets

Catch up on FP3 from Mexico as Lando Norris tops the timesheets

October 25, 2025
MLBPA’s Clark says safety concerns up amid NBA gambling scandal

MLBPA’s Clark says safety concerns up amid NBA gambling scandal

October 25, 2025
Virginia vs. UNC: Tar Heels lose as 2-point conversion comes up inches short in OT

Virginia vs. UNC: Tar Heels lose as 2-point conversion comes up inches short in OT

October 25, 2025
Facebook Twitter Instagram LinkedIn TikTok Pinterest
Got Action

Stay updated with the latest sports news, highlights, and expert analysis at Got Action. From football to basketball, we cover all your favorite sports. Get your daily dose of action now!

CATEGORIES

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Boxing
  • Football
  • Formula 1
  • Golf
  • MLB
  • MMA
  • NBA
  • NCAA Baseball
  • NCAA Basketball
  • NCAA Football
  • NCAA Sport
  • NFL
  • NHL
  • Tennis
  • Uncategorized

SITEMAP

  • About us
  • Advertise with us
  • Submit Press Release
  • Disclaimer
  • Privacy Policy
  • DMCA
  • Cookie Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact us

Copyright © 2025 Got Action.
Got Action is not responsible for the content of external sites.

Welcome Back!

Login to your account below

Forgotten Password?

Retrieve your password

Please enter your username or email address to reset your password.

Log In
No Result
View All Result
  • Home
  • Football
  • Basketball
  • NCAA
    • NCAA Football
    • NCAA Basketball
    • NCAA Baseball
    • NCAA Sport
  • Baseball
  • NFL
  • NBA
  • NHL
  • MLB
  • Formula 1
  • MMA
  • Boxing
  • Tennis
  • Golf
  • Sports Picks
Submit Press Release

Copyright © 2025 Got Action.
Got Action is not responsible for the content of external sites.