What Is COMB in Football Stats?
If you’ve ever delved into football statistics and encountered unfamiliar acronyms, you’re not alone. Many fans find themselves wondering about the meaning behind terms like “COMB” in football statistics. In this article, we’ll explore the concept of COMB and its significance in the world of football stats.
What Does COMB Mean in Football Statistics?
COMB in football statistics stands for combined tackles. Tackles, a fundamental defensive action in football, are categorized into two types: solo tackles and assisted tackles. When we refer to combined tackles or COMB, we’re talking about the total number of assisted tackles added to the total number of solo tackles.
In some cases, you might not find a dedicated COMB column when examining tackle statistics. Instead, both assisted and solo tackles could already be included in the overall tackles count. Therefore, it’s important to understand how different statistic keepers measure tackles.
Assisted Tackles and Solo Tackles Explained
What Are Assisted Tackles?
An assisted tackle occurs when multiple players collaborate to bring down an opponent. While not an official statistic tracked by the NFL, assisted tackles are recorded by the home team’s statistician during each game. Imagine it as a joint effort to tackle an opponent, and both players involved receive credit for the assisted tackle. This scenario resembles a half-sack, where players share credit for taking down the ball carrier.
Understanding Solo Tackles
A solo tackle is when a single defensive player successfully tackles the ball carrier without help. This tackle is credited solely to the player who made the tackle, regardless of prior contact with the ball carrier during the play. Solo tackles are often regarded as more impressive, as they showcase a player’s ability to take down an opponent individually.
Differentiating Assisted and Solo Tackles
While solo tackles demonstrate individual prowess, combined tackles (COMB) blend both assisted and solo tackles into a single statistic. This means that once tackles are recorded in the COMB column, you can’t distinguish between solo and assisted tackles. However, each type of tackle has its own unique merits.
Notable Performances in Tackling
In the 2020 NFL season, Avery Williamson led the league with an impressive 98 solo tackles. This exemplifies his skill in making individual tackles. On the other hand, Jaylen Smith of the Dallas Cowboys stood out with 65 assisted tackles in the same season.
Contributing to Your Team’s Success
Both assisted and solo tackles play crucial roles in a team’s defensive strategy. While assisted tackles highlight collaboration, solo tackles showcase individual impact. Striving for a high total tackle count can indicate your effectiveness on the field. Regular training and teamwork are essential for improving your tackling skills and contributing to your team’s victory.
In summary, understanding COMB in football statistics sheds light on the combined tackles that encompass both assisted and solo tackles. Each type of tackle has its own significance, and contributing effectively to both can greatly benefit your team’s success on the field.
Assisted tackles and solo tackles are fundamental aspects of football defense. Make sure to focus on your strengths and contribute to your team’s victory through effective tackling. Regular training and collaboration will elevate your skills as a tackle player. Remember, success in tackles is a key component of overall team success in football.
