The hottest Sports Substack posts right now

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Stealing Signals, Week 6, Part 1

Stealing Signals • 639 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Fantasy Analysis Coaching Player Performance
  1. Rookie running backs can experience quick changes in their roles and performances. It's important to track their progress and be patient, as outcomes can shift unexpectedly.
  2. A focused viewing experience can lead to deeper understanding and insights about games. Watching one game at a time allows for better evaluation of player performances and strategies.
  3. Coaching decisions can significantly impact game outcomes. Poor choices, like punting in crucial moments, can waste opportunities and alter the flow of the game.

My plan to fix the NBA All-Star game

Silver Bulletin • 249 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Basketball Events Athletes Competitions Entertainment
  1. The NBA All-Star Game has seen declining competitive play, with fewer fouls and lower stakes making it less exciting for fans.
  2. A proposed 3-on-3 tournament features All-Stars lined up by their NBA teams to create chemistry and pride, potentially improving game intensity.
  3. Changing the format to emphasize personal pride and fun might make the All-Star event more enjoyable and engaging for both players and fans.

The Extreme Everest Shortcuts Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1085 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🎾 Sports Climbing Adventure Technology Health Innovation
  1. Many inexperienced climbers are now trying to summit Everest because of commercial expeditions that let anyone pay their way up. This has led to unsafe conditions and even deaths on the mountain.
  2. A new method to climb Everest includes using xenon gas to help increase red blood cells and improve oxygen flow, letting climbers ascend quicker. This is a big change from the traditional, slower acclimatization process.
  3. The climbing community is split on this new approach, with some seeing it as progress while others worry it's too risky. History shows that shortcuts in tough environments can lead to serious consequences.

Job listing: Assistant Sports Analyst

Silver Bulletin • 30 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Sports Analysis Job Listings Data Visualization Statistical Modeling Data Management
  1. An Assistant Sports Analyst position is open, mostly focusing on improving sports models for NFL, NBA, and college basketball. It's part-time and could turn into full-time.
  2. Candidates need skills in Stata, Python, and data analysis, along with a strong interest in sports. Pay ranges from $40-50 per hour, depending on work done.
  3. To apply, email with your materials and be prepared for interviews in early April. The deadline to apply is March 25, 2024.

Stealing Signals, Week 6, Part 2

Stealing Signals • 519 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Fantasy Trade Analysis
  1. Davante Adams has been traded to the New York Jets, which impacts Garrett Wilson's potential target share but might not decrease his overall value too much. Both players could still have significant roles in the Jets' offense.
  2. Brock Bowers is highlighted as a top tight end prospect, expected to perform well in the second half of the fantasy season, especially with favorable matchups in weeks 15-17.
  3. Amari Cooper's trade to the Bills is seen as a chance for him to have some big games, but he might not be as consistent as players on the Jets. His situation involves some uncertainty with the new team's chemistry.
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Why ESPN ended its 35-year relationship with Major League Baseball

Huddle Up • 46 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Baseball Media Broadcasting Contracts History
  1. ESPN ended its long 35-year partnership with Major League Baseball. This change will affect how baseball is broadcasted on national TV.
  2. Both ESPN and MLB decided to part ways after a significant relationship that spanned multiple generations of fans.
  3. ESPN will continue to air MLB games for the remainder of the current season before officially ending their agreement.

Getting a Glimpse

Knicks Film School • 853 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Game Recap Player analysis Team performance
  1. The Knicks had a strong performance in their preseason game against the Wizards, showing their potential even against a weak opponent.
  2. Jalen Brunson played exceptionally well, scoring 25 points, while Karl-Anthony Towns also stepped up with a double-double.
  3. The Knicks' defense looks tough this season, with their length being a significant factor in their game.

The Journey Begins

Knicks Film School • 1011 implied HN points • 07 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball NBA Coaching
  1. The Knicks are starting a new season and had their first game with big hopes and changes. They're excited to see how the team plays together.
  2. There are some format changes to the newsletter, making it easier for readers to catch up on games. It will now include quick bullet points instead of long recaps.
  3. Patrick Ewing is back with the Knicks in a new role, and fans are hopeful about how this could help the team improve.

Top 5 Questions for the ‘24-25 Knicks

Knicks Film School • 535 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Teams Players Analysis Events
  1. The Knicks have a strong chance to win the NBA Championship this season. They are healthy and have a great mix of skilled players.
  2. Rebounding will be a key focus for the team. With some player changes, it's essential to see who will step up to grab the boards.
  3. Josh Hart and Karl-Anthony Towns could lead the team in rebounds. They both have a good track record, so expectations are high.

For Me, the Lack of Individual Creativity and Shot Creation in the Half Court is the Real Problem with the NBA

Freddie deBoer • 3465 implied HN points • 27 Dec 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Coaching Sports culture Performance
  1. The NBA has become too focused on team systems and analytics, which limits individual creativity and shot-making. This means fans don't see as much exciting, personal play on the court anymore.
  2. Players now are often coached to follow strict offensive structures, which can make their gameplay feel robotic and less entertaining, especially compared to past stars like Kobe or McGrady.
  3. The current rules and playing styles could be adjusted to allow more freedom for star players, making games more engaging and fun for fans.

Who Should be the Fifth Starter?

Knicks Film School • 753 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Teams Games Analysis
  1. There's a debate about who should start as the fifth player on the team, with a focus on Deuce McBride and Josh Hart. Fans have strong opinions on who would be better.
  2. The idea of happiness comes up, suggesting that sometimes people aren’t satisfied and always want more, even if the team seems set for the season.
  3. As the team moves toward the opening night, discussions around player choices are heating up, reflecting ongoing excitement and anticipation for the season.

Stealing Signals, Week 5, Part 1

Stealing Signals • 659 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Coaching Game Strategy Analysis Player Performance
  1. Football is more than just a physical game; it requires careful planning and attention to detail. Teams that focus on preparation tend to perform better because they understand the bigger picture.
  2. Coaches sometimes make poor decisions by focusing too much on small details instead of the overall goal of winning. It's important to stay aware of what really matters in the game.
  3. To maximize success, teams must balance being aggressive and playing smart. Making the right choices during key moments can greatly impact the outcome of games.

The Dumbest Injury Ever

Personality Disorder • 79 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Injuries Baseball Fan culture Personal Stories
  1. A person's grip strength suddenly decreases, leading them to struggle with simple tasks like writing and eating. It turns out the issue stems from excessive squeezing of a paper towel while watching a game.
  2. Fan rituals can be quirky and are often believed to influence game outcomes, no matter how silly they may seem. The writer held onto a marinara-sauce-stained paper towel during games, believing it brought luck.
  3. Even minor, unusual injuries can be frustrating and impact daily life. The experience serves as a reminder that even fun rituals can lead to unexpected consequences.

Could Liverpool Really Lose Mo Salah, TAA, *and* VVD After This Season?

No Grass in the Clouds • 99 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Contracts Analysis Performance
  1. Liverpool's best players, Mo Salah, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Virgil van Dijk, could leave after this season due to uncertain contract situations.
  2. The club has faced issues with its leadership and management, making it tough to handle player contracts effectively.
  3. Players may hesitate to sign long-term deals when they see instability in the club's management and direction.

And the Award Goes To...

Knicks Film School • 615 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball NBA Athletes Teams Coaching
  1. The Knicks are expected to be strong this season, with a significant number of general managers predicting they will finish in the top three of the Eastern Conference.
  2. Jalen Brunson is recognized as one of the best point guards, with many executives valuing his leadership qualities.
  3. The Knicks had a successful offseason, with their player acquisitions being highlighted as impactful moves, and the team's offensive efficiency being acknowledged as a strength.

Putting the Towns Trade on Trial

Knicks Film School • 833 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Trade Analysis Player Performance Team Strategy
  1. The Knicks traded Julius Randle for Karl-Anthony Towns to strengthen their center position, aiming to improve their chances for a championship. This was a big decision made amidst concerns about Randle's contract and fit on the team.
  2. Karl-Anthony Towns is a better offensive player than Julius Randle, especially when it comes to shooting from long range. His ability to stretch the floor can give the team more lineup options and improve their offense.
  3. While the trade carries risks, such as losing depth and Towns' potential defensive weaknesses, the Knicks believe that acquiring him will make the team more competitive in the playoffs. There's excitement about the team's chances moving forward.

Luka Doncic and the market for lemons

Silver Bulletin • 679 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Trade Analysis Market
  1. Luka Doncic being traded to the Lakers surprised everyone because such big trades are rare. Usually, it happens when teams are struggling or a player is unhappy.
  2. Typically, there's a lot of drama leading up to a superstar trade, but Doncic's trade happened suddenly without warning signs.
  3. People are questioning whether the Mavericks made a poor choice in trading Doncic without getting more in return, stirring curiosity about their decision-making.

Input Volatility, Week 6

Stealing Signals • 439 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Fantasy sports NFL Player analysis Game Strategy
  1. Injuries are impacting many teams, and managing your roster well is important. Pay close attention to injury reports to make smart roster moves.
  2. Some players are stepping up as key backups due to injuries, making them valuable adds for fantasy teams. Keep an eye on players like Isaac Guerendo and Blake Corum as potential game-changers.
  3. The unpredictability of player performance is a big part of the NFL season. A player's value can change quickly based on game situations and injuries, so stay flexible in your strategy.

Why Are Conservatives Obsessed with Brazilian Jiu Jitsu?

JoeWrote • 51 implied HN points • 27 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Cultural impact
  1. Brazilian jiu jitsu is more than just a sport; it's a way for some people to express their values and beliefs, often leaning towards a strong, masculine culture.
  2. Prominent figures in conservative circles have embraced jiu jitsu to represent their ideas of discipline and struggle, linking the sport to their political views.
  3. The sport has a controversial history tied to fascist ideals, with some of its founders and practitioners expressing extreme political views over the years.

Stealing Signals, Week 5, Part 2

Stealing Signals • 499 implied HN points • 08 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Fantasy Analytics Game analysis Player Performance
  1. Offensive football is evolving, with more exciting plays and downfield shots happening. Quarterbacks are becoming better at making big plays, which makes the game more enjoyable.
  2. In fantasy leagues, it's important to play for high-scoring potential rather than just trying to avoid losses. Playing safe can lead to missed opportunities and a loss, so always aim for the best possible plays.
  3. Analyzing football can be a complex task, and it's common for analysts to have blind spots. It's crucial to keep digging deep and not rely only on surface-level insights to make informed decisions.

Level Up: Week 4

Running Probably • 59 implied HN points • 25 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Running Training Fitness Health Exercise
  1. It's important to check in on your progress with running and to think deeply about how you feel about your journey so far. Use a journal to explore your thoughts and emotions.
  2. Vary your running distances and routes to keep things interesting. Plan for at least one long run each week as part of your routine.
  3. Take recovery seriously and listen to your body. Don't be afraid to reduce your running mileage sometimes to allow yourself to rest and recharge.

Input Volatility, Week 5

Stealing Signals • 559 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Fantasy Analysis Game Strategy
  1. The Falcons have shown potential in their passing game, with players like Kyle Pitts and Drake London stepping up. Despite some inconsistencies, their improved offense could lead to better performance in future games.
  2. Bijan Robinson is still in a good position despite recent struggles. His workload suggests he can bounce back and have strong games, especially as the team's offensive performance improves.
  3. Depth in fantasy football is crucial, particularly as bye weeks begin. Having strong options helps teams manage injuries and maintain competitiveness through tougher weeks.

TPRR check-in: Who has made strides earning volume so far?

Stealing Signals • 599 implied HN points • 03 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Analytics Statistics Data Performance
  1. Routes data is really important for understanding how well players are performing. Different sources measure these routes in different ways, which can create confusion.
  2. The NFL has started providing its own routes data, which could help standardize how we analyze player performance. This might make comparisons easier and clearer moving forward.
  3. Stats like TPRR (Targets Per Route Run) help us understand player efficiency, but they need to be used alongside other context like player roles and QB performance for better insights.

Input Volatility, Week 5, Part 2

Stealing Signals • 519 implied HN points • 05 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Fantasy Analysis Team Strategy
  1. Pay attention to the New England Patriots' running backs. Rhamondre Stevenson might not start, but he could still play, making him a risky start depending on his fumbles.
  2. When trading players like Breece Hall and Ken Walker, consider the long-term outlook. A good game from one player can quickly change their value, so timing and player reputation matter.
  3. Don't underestimate rookies like Keon Coleman. With injuries on the team, they might get more chances to shine, making them worth considering for your lineup.

Chiefs Fans Doing the "War Chant" After Beating the Worst Team in the League by Two is the Most Pathetic Thing I've Ever Seen From Any Fanbase

Freddie deBoer • 3712 implied HN points • 30 Nov 24
🎾 Sports Football Fan culture Analytics Team Dynamics Media Coverage
  1. Chiefs fans celebrated a narrow win over a bad team with their war chant, which some see as embarrassing and inappropriate. It's not cool to act like you just beat a top team when you barely won against the worst one.
  2. There are concerns about the Chiefs' performance this season compared to past years. Their offensive play has slowed down, and some fans and analysts feel they aren't as dominant as before.
  3. Many Chiefs fans act like a lot of people hate them because they are successful. Instead, they should recognize their team's success and stop complaining about being disrespected, as they are now a winning franchise.

Nevermore

Secretum Secretorum • 454 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎾 Sports Football Athletes Games Teamwork Fan culture
  1. Sports can evoke strong emotions and create alternate realities in our minds. After a tough loss, it can be helpful to imagine a better outcome.
  2. There are words or ideas that can deeply affect us, either breaking us down or helping us heal. It's important to recognize both the harsh truths and the potential for recovery.
  3. In life, teamwork and understanding are crucial. Just like in sports, everyone plays a role, and being supportive can help everyone move forward together.

Under-the-Radar Lob Threats for the 2025 NBA Draft

Chad Ford's NBA Big Board • 59 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Draft Prospects Analysis
  1. Vertical lob threats are important in the NBA because they help create offensive space, making it easier to score. They can change games by forcing defenses to choose between protecting the rim or the perimeter.
  2. Having players who can catch lobs and finish at the rim opens opportunities for shooters and playmakers. This diversifies the team's strategy and keeps defenses guessing.
  3. Prospects like Miles Rubin show promise as lob threats and could surprise teams in the 2025 NBA Draft. Their unique skills might not always show in stats but can be crucial for team success.

Celebrating wins

Ben’s Blog 🏉 🧠🧑‍💻 • 21 implied HN points • 11 Jun 25
🎾 Sports Athletics Competition Public Speaking Personal Growth
  1. Celebrating your wins helps boost your energy and motivation. It's important to take a moment to enjoy your achievements instead of just focusing on what to improve.
  2. Public speaking can be challenging, but overcoming that fear can lead to great personal growth and satisfaction. It feels rewarding to push through and succeed in something you once dreaded.
  3. Having a positive mindset about your journey can inspire you to keep improving. Working with a coach can help elevate your skills and spread a good message about mental health and performance.

The YouTube Thumbnail for This Would Be "POCH OUT?!?!?! FRAUD WATCH???"

No Grass in the Clouds • 159 implied HN points • 16 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Coaching Analysis Statistics
  1. Pochettino's current U.S. team is not as strong as the teams he previously coached, with a much lower market value.
  2. Key players like Pulisic and McKennie didn't fully participate in recent games, impacting the team's performance.
  3. The expected outcome of the games against Panama and Mexico matched reality, showing that even a great coach can't win with limited resources.

The NBA All-Star Game is a circus (and that's okay)

Huddle Up • 28 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Basketball Events Entertainment Culture Media
  1. The NBA All-Star Game isn't as exciting as it used to be. Fans and players are showing less interest, which affects the overall vibe of the event.
  2. No matter how the league tries to change things up, like adding new rules or incentives, it doesn't seem to make a difference in player engagement.
  3. It's okay to recognize that the All-Star Game has become more of a show than a serious competition, and that's part of its charm for some fans.

NBA Future of the Franchise Rankings

Silver Bulletin • 210 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Basketball Trade Championships Analysis
  1. Teams' future success in the NBA is heavily influenced by their current roster and ability to attract superstar talent. A team with young superstars has a better chance at winning more championships over time compared to one that has an aging roster.
  2. The current standings of a team may not reflect their long-term potential. Teams like the Los Angeles Clippers and Phoenix Suns made big trades but now face challenges with roster depth and future draft assets, making it hard to build a championship-caliber team.
  3. It's crucial for teams to prioritize championship potential over just being competitive. Teams that are stuck in the middle, like the Sacramento Kings and Chicago Bulls, are less likely to achieve success because they lack pathways to acquire star players and improve their chances of winning titles.

Banishing The Inner Critic

The Ruffian • 245 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Athletes Psychology Competition Performance Tennis
  1. Madison Keys won the Australian Open by playing more instinctively and accepting her mistakes. She realized that losing while being true to herself was better than winning by playing tightly and feeling stressed.
  2. She worked on her mental health through therapy, which helped her feel happier and less burdened by the pressure to win. She learned that success in tennis doesn't define her worth as a person.
  3. Keys found success by caring less about the outcome of her matches. By reducing her focus on winning, she could play more freely and confidently.

The 2024 True Sack Rate (TSR): Week 7 Update

Trench Warfare • 79 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Statistics Player analysis Performance Metrics
  1. The True Sack Rate (TSR) is a system that evaluates sacks by defensive linemen based on how they earned those sacks. It breaks down sacks into categories, helping to better evaluate a player’s skill and performance.
  2. There are four types of sacks in the TSR, ranging from rare high-quality wins over elite blockers to more common 'cleanup' sacks that are less about skill. This helps to highlight which players are truly impactful in games.
  3. Currently, top players in the TSR have recorded impressive sack scores, showcasing their effectiveness this season. Studying their performance can give fans deeper insights into who stands out on the field.

Caitlin Clark’s Conundrum

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1636 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🎾 Sports Women's Sports Basketball Media Coverage Sports culture
  1. Caitlin Clark is a groundbreaking talent in women's basketball, making a big impact on the WNBA during her rookie year.
  2. The WNBA has struggled to gain the same attention and viewership as the NBA, but Clark's presence could change that.
  3. Having Clark featured on the cover of Time magazine highlights her talent and could help raise the profile of women's basketball.

Freshmen Fireworks: Top Prospects Dominate in Exhibition Action

Chad Ford's NBA Big Board • 79 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Athletes Exhibitions College sports
  1. Top freshmen are making a strong impression in exhibition games. Players like Cooper Flagg and Ace Bailey are showcasing their talent and preparing for the upcoming season.
  2. Cooper Flagg is projected as a potential No. 1 pick for the 2025 NBA Draft. He had an impressive outing with 22 points and several assists and blocks in his debut.
  3. There are emerging talents from overseas like Mouhamad Faye who could surprise everyone in the 2025 draft. Keep an eye on these rising stars as the season progresses.

The Endless, Perplexing Controversies Over (How We Talk About) Lamar Jackson

Freddie deBoer • 2691 implied HN points • 20 Nov 24
🎾 Sports Athletes Media Performance Controversies Football
  1. Lamar Jackson is an outstanding quarterback, but he faces unique scrutiny compared to others, especially regarding his playoff performance. Many see criticism of his playoff games as unfair, considering he has had a strong regular season.
  2. The media often treats Jackson differently than other quarterbacks like Dak Prescott, despite similar playoff records. This shows a possible double standard in how these players are discussed.
  3. Winning a Super Bowl is crucial for a quarterback's legacy, and both Jackson and Prescott need to prove themselves in the playoffs to be considered among the best. Fans and analysts should recognize this reality instead of making excuses.

Tuesday Shakeout: Shutting Down

Running Probably • 119 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Athletics Training Mental health
  1. The author has accepted that their racing season is over and they recognize the need to face this reality. It's tough to let go of something they love, but they understand it’s necessary.
  2. They acknowledge that preparing for a big race like the JFK 50 can't be done without proper training, highlighting that they need to think logically about their situation.
  3. While they are trying to accept this shutdown, they also mention struggling with their feelings and hope that time will help them process everything better.

When will the sports media bubble pop?

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 274 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎾 Sports Media Broadcasting Streaming Content Strategy Audience engagement
  1. The sports media market is becoming really expensive for fans because cable bundles that used to help pay for sports are fading away. Many believe this bubble will burst, leading leagues to lower their prices and possibly stream games themselves.
  2. There's a growing niche in media, with some focused newsletters and channels doing well by targeting very specific interests. This shift shows that unique, dedicated content can attract a loyal audience.
  3. For media companies, it’s essential to focus on both new material and evergreen content. By promoting older content, businesses can keep viewers engaged and drive more traffic.

Uh, Guys: Brentford Might've Just Solved Soccer

No Grass in the Clouds • 139 implied HN points • 11 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Soccer Analytics Team Strategy
  1. Brentford has been scoring quickly, netting goals in the first 90 seconds of their games. This gives them a strong advantage over the other teams.
  2. Teams that score first tend to win more often, making early scoring really important in soccer.
  3. Brentford's strategy could be a smart playbook for other teams to follow to boost their chances of winning games.