Unlocking Sports Data: Zebra’s Adam Petrus on Next-Gen Stats

In this episode, we talk to Adam Petrus from Zebra, the company that provides the RFID technology behind the NFL's Next Gen Stats program. Adam explains how Zebra's cutting-edge tracking system allows the league to capture incredibly detailed data on player and ball movements in real time.

From measuring the speed and distance of a 105-yard kickoff return to helping coaches optimize player performance in practice, Adam shares how Zebra's solutions are transforming the way football is played and analyzed. He also discusses the potential for this technology to be used in other sports, like the World Cup, and the importance of balancing data-driven insights with the human element that makes sports so compelling.

Throughout the conversation, Adam's expertise and enthusiasm for sports technology shine through, making this an engaging listen for any fan interested in the intersection of sports and innovation.

Timestamps:

01:26 Zebra's Role in NFL and AWS Partnership

06:19 Adam’s background and career journey

09:22 Implementation and Logistics of Zebra's NFL Partnership

15:19 Future plans and potential actions

22:53 The use of AI for data analysis

25:38 The use of Zebra in NCAA

32:37 Zebra’s role in World Cup planning

35:16 Zebra in international sport events

39:24 Zebra’s role in other sports leagues and entertainment space

41:50 Can all those data have a negative impact?

44:03 The most rewarding part of the job

45:51 Final thoughts on partnership with Zebra