Tanney knows scores behind score

When Bears director of analytics looks at numbers, things begin to add up

August 01, 2013|Dan Pompei | On the NFL
  • Bears' quarterback Jay Cutler looks to make a pass during training camp Thursday.
Bears' quarterback Jay Cutler looks to make a pass during training camp Thursday. (Anthony Souffle / Chicago Tribune)


Emery came up with a formula the Bears would use in drafts in which they selected players such as Brian Urlacher, Mike Brown, Marty Booker, Roosevelt Colvin and Warrick Holdman.




Enter Mitch Tanney, director of analytics.


Tanney had been the manager of analytics for STATS. Emery became familiar with him after he became Bears general manager and he spent a day at STATS in Northbrook to see how the team could benefit from the company's services.


"I always had a strong interest in this area," said Emery, who has quoted Pro Football Focus statistics in news conferences. "Going to that conference and meeting with Mitch helped me get my head around the analytics equation."



"Mitch's input is no more important than the tape, than the interview or than a high quality computer system," Emery said. "Analytics is part of it, not all of it. … We're not trying to find magic bullets. We're trying to get a little bit more out of the data we have because there is such an array of it."

The Bears believe Tanney can enhance their efforts in three ways.

The most important area is scouting.

"He is going to help us in analyzing (veteran) player statistical information to compare and contrast with other players in the league," Emery said. "He will help us in analyzing future prospects with all the various statistical information each player presents — performance scores on the field, medical scores, background testing and psychological profiling. He will dial down the important information and make it clear how it relates to performance."


And he will provide coach Marc Trestman and his staff with metrics that could give them an edge. Tanney is tracking trends for strategical purposes already, and the coaches also have given him special projects.

"There are so many elements that go into decision making besides the numbers," Trestman said. "But at least you can get percentages on what your chances may be.

"An example might be if you look at what the numbers say if it's fourth-and-1 on the 8. Is it better to go for it or take three (points)? If you don't get it, there is a good chance you'll get the three back if you have a good defense and you punt the ball. Or you can create a turnover because they are backed up and you stress their offense."

Trestman said he doesn't know a lot about analytics, but he is open-minded to learning more.

Emery jokes that he did not get past Algebra 101.



"There is a uniqueness in finding an ex-player involved in analytics and having a deep math background," Emery said. "And he had job experience in the sport. There aren't many people with all those qualifications. So he adds something to the group that can make us better."

This is a new era for the Bears' front office, and Tanney's presence is confirmation.


Twitter @danpompei