How It Works

Each player in the PHL is given a rating between 1-100 (most players fall between 75-95) and those ratings are averaged to give the team it's overall rating. All this information as well as basic information about each player is included with each roster.

Team ratings are all entered into the simulation sheet. I've used the Pacific Division from the 2001-02 season as a sample. The first step in the simulation is roll two dice for each team to determine their initial results. These results serve as a baseline for each team's record. The team gets between 4-6 rolls depending on whether it's rating is over or under the league average, shown at the bottom of the "OVR" column. Next, a single dice roll is performed based on where the team stands within its division. Like the initial results, the Strength of Division factor is detemined by whether the team is above the average or below it. A single dice is rolled once and the number is either added or subtracted to the team's wins depending on which side of the average the team falls. Next, there is a list of Random occurrences that each feature a number. Wins are either added or subtracted based on the results of another dice roll. Ties are assigned at random and subtracted from the team's losses. Finally, the numbers are entered into a second table where numbers are adjusted for realism. Each team's record must add up to 80 games played and wins must equal ties. Though numbers are adjusted without a particular formula, the order of the standings determined in the first table are maintained. The numbers are then entered into the standings template shown in the season post and the story is written. Notable random occurrences are mentioned in the story along with others that are simply made up.

Playoffs are simulated one game at a time using dice. Four dice are used for the home team, three for the road team. Rolling a six is a goal for both teams. For the team with the higher OVR rating, double ones also count. If the teams' OVR ratings differ by two points or more, triple threes also count as a goal for the higher team. The triple threes rule applies only to the first two rounds.