The Idea Behind Coaching DNA
Every head coach in college football brings a distinct identity to their program. Some are run-heavy grinders who win in the trenches. Others spread defenses out and attack through the air. A few manage to blend both approaches into something unpredictable and dangerous.
At Playmakers Edge, we call this a coach's DNA -- the tactical fingerprint that shapes how a team plays week in, week out. Our Coaching DNA system breaks this identity down into measurable components so you can see exactly what makes each program tick.
How We Measure It
Coaching DNA is built on 12 dimensions of team performance, drawn from SP+ ratings and advanced stats:
Offense (6 dimensions):
- Rushing Efficiency (offense_rushing): How effective is the ground game on a per-play basis?
- Passing Efficiency (offense_passing): How effective is the passing attack per attempt?
- Success Rate (offense_success_rate): How consistently does the offense move the chains?
- Explosiveness (offense_explosiveness): How often does the offense generate big plays?
- Tempo (offense_pace): How fast does the offense operate relative to the FBS average?
- Scoring Efficiency (scoring_efficiency): How well does the offense convert opportunities into points?
Defense (5 dimensions):
- Rushing Defense (defense_rushing): How well does the defense stop the run?
- Passing Defense (defense_passing): How well does the defense limit the passing game?
- Havoc Rate (defense_havoc): How often does the defense create disruptions -- sacks, TFLs, forced fumbles?
- Defensive Success Rate (defense_success_rate): How consistently does the defense limit offensive gains?
- Turnovers (defense_turnovers): How frequently does the secondary force turnovers?
Special Teams (1 dimension):
- Special Teams (special_teams): Kicking, punting, and return game efficiency via SP+.
Each dimension is scored on a percentile scale (0-100th percentile across all FBS coaches), creating a radar chart profile that can be compared across the entire FBS landscape.
Why It Matters
Understanding Coaching DNA is not just an academic exercise. It has real implications for predicting game outcomes:
- Matchup Analysis: When a run-heavy offense meets a pass-funnel defense, the DNA mismatch tells a story.
- Coaching Changes: When a new coach arrives, their DNA from a previous stop can forecast how the roster will be used.
- In-Season Adaptation: Some coaches adjust their DNA mid-season. Tracking these shifts reveals who is adapting and who is stuck.
See It In Action
Head over to our Coaching Constellation to explore every FBS coach's DNA profile in an interactive visualization. Filter by conference, compare coaches side by side, and discover the tactical identities driving college football.
The Edge Report is the blog of Playmakers Edge, where we turn college football data into actionable insights. Follow us for weekly analysis throughout the season.