Data-Driven Insights: Revolutionizing Soccer with Brett Myers

In this episode of Don't Know Much About Football, the hosts welcome Brett Myers from Villanova University to discuss his significant contributions to soccer analytics. Myers shares his journey from professional soccer player (playing for two seasons for the Richmond Kickers and competing internationally, winning Gold for Team USA in the 11th Pan American Maccabi Games in Buenos Aires, Argentina, in 2008) to academic researching football (aka soccer) He discusses his pivotal research on optimal substitution timings and the tactical implications of maintaining offensive pressure. He also delves into his consultancy work with MLS teams like Philadelphia Union and Toronto FC, helping them leverage data for improved performance. The conversation covers the growing acceptance of analytics in soccer, the challenges of implementing data-driven decisions, and the future potential of AI and advanced metrics in the sport. Myers also offers insights into the US Men's National Team's prospects for the upcoming World Cup and discusses the importance of developing grassroots soccer in the United States.

00:00 Brett Myers' Background and Research Journey

03:50 Consulting in Major League Soccer

08:36 The Evolution of Data Analytics in Soccer

13:00 Changing the Timing of Subs in Football

16:31 Impact of Data on Player Management

25:37 Balancing Business and Fan Engagement

28:28 The Pitfalls of Parking the Bus

29:21 Empirical Study on Attacking Behavior

32:53 Goalkeeping Metrics and Their Impact

39:44 Key Performance Indicators in Soccer

46:50 Challenges and Expectations for the US Men's National Team

53:19 Developing Grassroots Soccer in the US

57:04 Final Thoughts and Predictions

https://www1.villanova.edu/university/experts/expert-detail.html?expert=bret.meyers

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A Superfan Free Agent's Journey

In this episode of Don't Know Much About Football, hosts Ian, Sarah, and Karlo welcome special guest Connolly, a sports enthusiast from Chicago who doesn't have a favorite football team. The conversation delves into Connolly's journey with sports, from playing various sports as a child to attending high-profile international matches. The hosts discuss the challenges and opportunities for growing soccer fandom in the U.S., the differences between American sports and football culture, and speculate on what might increase the sport's popularity domestically. Connolly shares personal anecdotes about attending games, following the U.S. Men's National Team, and mulling over choosing a Premier League team to support. The episode also touches on broader topics like the impact of social media, youth sports development in the U.S., and the nuances of global football leagues.

00:00 Meet Connolly: The Club Curious Guest

01:20 Connolly's First Football Experiences

04:45 The Quest for a Favorite Team

13:01 The American Football Fan Experience

20:25 The Growing Popularity of Soccer in the US

22:17 Anticipation for the World Cup

22:49 The Impact of Star Players

23:20 Challenges for US Men's Soccer

25:21 Rift Between Generations

30:47 American vs. International Football Culture

42:29 Youth Soccer Development in the US

45:15 Concluding Thoughts and Onward Fan Journey

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Premier League Roundtable: Early Season Reactions and Surprising Standings

In this episode of Don't Know Much About Football, hosts Ian and Karlo are joined by returning guests Brendan, Scott, and Yuvaraj for a roundtable discussion on the current Premier League season. The conversation kicks off with quick temperature checks from fans of Everton, Manchester City, and Arsenal, covering their feelings about their clubs' performances in the early part of the season. The group also delves into surprising standings, particularly the unexpected placements of Crystal Palace, Sunderland, and Bournemouth in the top half of the table. The impact of recent managerial changes and standout transfers across various teams are analyzed, along with individual club perspectives. Additionally, the episode includes a football trivia segment and wraps up with the panel looking ahead to the most anticipated matches in the next six weeks. Comprehensive and engaging, this roundtable provides insightful perspectives from different club supporters.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:36 Initial Impressions of the Season

01:21 Team Performance Reviews

03:25 Surprises in the Top Four

11:20 Transfer Window Insights

21:14 Everton's New Stadium and Transfers

29:33 Surprising Performances and Manager Changes

36:42 Trivia Time: Current Season Knowledge

40:40 Upcoming Matches to Watch

47:34 Special Stories and Rivalries

50:02 Final Thoughts and Wrap-Up

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