conace21 wrote:.
Staubach and Bradshaw both saw a dramatic rise in their stats after the 1978 rules changes, whereas Stabler's stats mostly tanked.
One key difference: Staubach and Bradshaw stayed with the same organizations. Stabler didn't.
Stats are more the product of the organization someone plays in than people realize or care to admit.
***
I'm driving a car while scientists analyze my driving skills via measurements such as acceleration, braking, fuel usage, route traveled. Over time evidence shows I'm a very efficient driver.
Now plop me into a new metro area. Suddenly my braking is erratic, and likewise my acceleration. I miss turns in my route because I don't know where I'm going. Worried about my next turn, I run a couple red lights. It takes me longer to travel the same distance and I use more fuel.
Did I forget how to drive? No, my environment changed.
What if they give me a new vehicle (new offensive coordinator) but nothing else changes? Some dip in efficiency, but I'm still traveling the same path, still know where I'm going. I can concentrate on the car itself. Confident in where I am and where I'm going, I quickly pick up the nuances of the new vehicle.
It works the other way, too. A nobody changes teams and his new coach puts him in the right place to make plays. Is the player more talented than they were before? Doubtful.
Rare is the player who switches teams without an impact to performance, one way or the other. A few blue chippers can. They are the exception to the rule.