# Football data and model attribution

Source: nflverse/nflverse-data, 2024 play-by-play release.
https://github.com/nflverse/nflverse-data/releases/download/pbp/play_by_play_2024.csv.gz
License: Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0).
https://github.com/nflverse/nflverse-data/blob/main/LICENSE.md

Downloaded 2026-10-16. SHA-256 of source gzip:
23370d5d10f8104d80d46a1fc5e61f4f6f5a3263fe96fe2dd629913cfcb08c06

Transformations: scripts/prepare-football-data.py filters normal pass/run plays,
excluding penalties, kneels, spikes and conversions, and creates compact samples
and late-game scenarios. There are 34,367 samples and 210 opening situations.
The starting score, clock, field position, down, distance and timeouts are historical.
Skill-player names are extracted from recorded game participation. Formations
are schematic, not verified 22-player lineups or tracking positions.

The independent simulator samples by down, distance, field zone and broad play
family, backing off sparse groups. Tactical choices adjust sampling weights.
Recorded yardage is retained. Kicking, clock, penalties, defenses, opponent AI,
routes, personnel and animations are simplified game models. Subsequent simulated
plays are not a reconstruction of the original game's sequence. No individual
player ratings or actual real-time NFL feed is claimed.

Overtime is a simplified game rule: both teams receive an opening possession,
then sudden death. It is not a full implementation of a specific NFL rulebook.
Monte Carlo review runs 192 finishes per option; estimates have sampling error
and describe this simulator, not actual NFL win probabilities.

The Fandom page gameshows.fandom.com/wiki/2_Minute_Drill describes ESPN's sports
trivia television show, a separate game from the football tactics simulator here.
No source code, game assets or data files from nfl2mindrill.com are used.