A lot of data coming in from the Combine about speed, strength, agility, etc. I try not to get too hung up on these numbers as I think actual performance on the field trumps all. But in the absence of game tapes to review, I can see why we fans attach a lot of importance to these measures.
As the results come in I see guys rocketing up the boards because of a blazing 4.4 forty, while others plummet like a rock because of a plodding 4.6 forty. Using a little simple math, I calculated that over a distance of 40 yards (straight line speed, no changes of direction, decison-making tim, etc...) the Greyhound would be only about 14 inches ahead of the Clydesdale.
I know it is a game of inches, but I think this puts things a little into perspective. Two-tenths of a second is a very short amount of time. The differences between players' times is extremely thin. In most instances, superior decison-making ability (runner locating the hole, LB diagnosing he play) can easily make up for the raw speed.
Bottom line: If a guy has outstanding on-field results, but "drops" because he tests poorly at the combine, I might see that as a big opportunity.
JMO.
As the results come in I see guys rocketing up the boards because of a blazing 4.4 forty, while others plummet like a rock because of a plodding 4.6 forty. Using a little simple math, I calculated that over a distance of 40 yards (straight line speed, no changes of direction, decison-making tim, etc...) the Greyhound would be only about 14 inches ahead of the Clydesdale.
I know it is a game of inches, but I think this puts things a little into perspective. Two-tenths of a second is a very short amount of time. The differences between players' times is extremely thin. In most instances, superior decison-making ability (runner locating the hole, LB diagnosing he play) can easily make up for the raw speed.
Bottom line: If a guy has outstanding on-field results, but "drops" because he tests poorly at the combine, I might see that as a big opportunity.
JMO.