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FiveThirtyEight analyst says 49ers (and Seahawks) were incredibly lucky

Don’t get me wrong, I love analytics as much as the next slide rule-wielding nerd.

When numbers can elucidate what has just happened on the field, rink or hardwood, it enhances the fan experience. Example: On his 83-yard touchdown against the Cleveland Browns this season, the 49ers’ Matt Breida topped out at 22.3 mph, the fastest of any ball carrier in the NFL this season.

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That’s revelatory. I mean, anything moving that fast should be outfitted with airbags and a litter can.

Likewise, any data that purports to forecast the future or explain the recent past, is a interesting and useful tool.