With hundreds of players, coaches, personnel members, and trends to monitor, football can be both overwhelming and amazing. This week in The Overhang, I analyze the usage of star wide receivers as well as a historic league-wide trend impacting the third phase of football.
Dallas Cowboys wide receiver, CeeDee Lamb, is emblematic of what I like to call the “Power Slot” archetype. Lamb has played 62.7% of his snaps from the slot this season, ranking 15th among qualifying wide receivers and excelling in yards per slot route run, first downs per slot route run, and EPA per slot target.
Lamb’s effectiveness is not limited to the slot. He’s been targeted more frequently when lined up on the outside and has significantly improved his receiving numbers from last season in these situations. His 4.38 yards per outside route run leads the league, placing him in the same stratosphere as Tyreek Hill.
Lamb’s impact goes beyond his individual performance. His presence on the field opens up opportunities for his teammates. Against the Rams, Lamb’s alignment and the Rams’ defensive structure created an opportunity for his teammate, Jake Ferguson, to score a touchdown.
Moreover, CeeDee Lamb’s threat on the outside can lead to more opportunities. Against the Rams, the defensive structure in response to Lamb’s alignment allowed Lamb to score a touchdown as well, showcasing the impacts created by his offensive contributions
In addition to Lamb’s performance, NFL punters are currently having a groundbreaking season. Their net punting average through the first nine weeks of the season is the highest since at least 2000. This is a testament to the modern punters who are using spin and direction to create better field positions.
The performances by both CeeDee Lamb and NFL punters underscore the excitement and evolution in modern football. The strategic alignments and playmaking capabilities are factors contributing to football’s overwhelming nature, making it both complex and thrilling. Watch out for the impact and opportunities created by these talented players in future games.
