Collegiate Expected Points (EP) Model
Expected Points (EP) calculates the average net points scored by the offense before the next change of possession, parameterized by yardline, down, and distance. Starting at your own 25 averages +1.82 EP; crossing the opponent 20 spikes EP above +4.1.
The Iowa Hawkeye Field Position Paradox
Iowa’s legendary defensive formula suppresses opponent EPA per drive to under 0.9 points. By punting aggressively on 4th-and-short outside field-goal range and relying on Aussie coffin-corner punts, they invert the opponent's starting field position and force 80+ yard drives.
Coverage vs. Concept Leverage
Mesh crossers and shallow drags punish two-high Cover-2 zones by flooding the underneath linebackers. Cover-0 and Cover-3 with stacked 8-man boxes choke interior runs but leave isolated 1-on-1 boundary match-ups vulnerable to deep slot post shots.