Analysis - Numbers
By Zach Batia
Numbers are an essential and versatile tool which can be used to tell stories in countless ways. Sports stories are one example of a genre of writing that would be impossible without numbers. A good example is this article from Sports Illustrated breaking down Minnesota's big win over Penn State.
Numbers in this story are used to provide context in several different ways. Three such ways are to provide game details, seasonal context, and historical background. The most plentiful of these are the game details. These numbers range anywhere from player stats (such as Tanner Morgan's 18/20 statline) play details (such as the 66 yard touchdown), and game context (such as the interception which occurred with 1:01 remaining). These numbers provide important information about the game itself that gives those who didn't watch an idea of the tensions and momentum swings of the game, helping to bring it to life.
The other numbers used in this article are for seasonal and historical context. Seasonal information such as team's rankings (Penn State had been #4 and Minnesota #20) and records (both teams were 8-0 entering the game), as well has historical numbers (such as this being Minnesota's first top five win in 20 years, or not having won a conference title since 1967) help to convey to uninformed readers the importance and expectations for the game. This is particularly important for this game as Minnesota's victory is considered a huge upset and will have big ramifications on the playoff picture.
By Zach Batia
Numbers are an essential and versatile tool which can be used to tell stories in countless ways. Sports stories are one example of a genre of writing that would be impossible without numbers. A good example is this article from Sports Illustrated breaking down Minnesota's big win over Penn State.
Numbers in this story are used to provide context in several different ways. Three such ways are to provide game details, seasonal context, and historical background. The most plentiful of these are the game details. These numbers range anywhere from player stats (such as Tanner Morgan's 18/20 statline) play details (such as the 66 yard touchdown), and game context (such as the interception which occurred with 1:01 remaining). These numbers provide important information about the game itself that gives those who didn't watch an idea of the tensions and momentum swings of the game, helping to bring it to life.
The other numbers used in this article are for seasonal and historical context. Seasonal information such as team's rankings (Penn State had been #4 and Minnesota #20) and records (both teams were 8-0 entering the game), as well has historical numbers (such as this being Minnesota's first top five win in 20 years, or not having won a conference title since 1967) help to convey to uninformed readers the importance and expectations for the game. This is particularly important for this game as Minnesota's victory is considered a huge upset and will have big ramifications on the playoff picture.
Comments
Post a Comment