I can't tell you how overstimulated the football nerd in me got when I read this passage:
In a later post I plan to break down more of the cold, rational, time-intensive decisions and where those decisions break down. I'm interest in which decisions are "predictably irrational," and can they be fixed? Also, what heuristics do coaches and sometimes players use that correctly and incorrectly inform them? But today I limit myself to the raw, instinctual, athletic intelligence that football players must possess or be gone.
Heuristics, and football? God I love this stuff!
The post looks into the types of decisions that are required on the field, specifically the difference between "reactive, emotional" decisions, (I would say emotionless, but I haven't read the research that Chris has), versus the analytical, reasoned decisions you and I make on a daily basis. I won't go any further on the content, and can only strongly urge you to take a look. It is, as I said, a fascinating read... if you're into that kinda stuff.
One of my long term goals with FLB12 is to write a series of posts giving the passive/average football fan a look at what its like to "Think like a...", whether it's how to think like a QB or a LB... or even a Head Coach. What are the things that a QB is looking at that, and what is it telling him? What does a middle linebacker see that makes him call off a blitz, or vice versa? What do coaches look at in film study that helps them breakdown an opponent? Educating myself on these subjects over the last few seasons has really opened up my understanding of the game and, as cliched as it sounds, it really has expanded my love of the game and all the techniques ,strategies, and tactics that it entails.
Now, for all of you I just bored to tears with all those big words, here are some football players hitting other football players... hard.
