With the recent discussion on the accuracy of the TCHCR, a question has come
to me, EXACTLY how is the strength of scehdule computed?  It seems to me that
in order to calculate the strength of scehdule the teams ALL must be given
some preliminary ranking, yet the TCHCR use strength of schedule to calculate
the rankings.  Are the preliminary rankings taken from the previous week?  Does
the strength of scehdule change throughout the season or is it pre-determined?
Can someone resolve this circular logic problem for me?
 
I think that the TCHCR is a wonderful idea, and should be taken for what it is,
an unbiased statisitcal ranking system.  It should never be compared to the
polls because the way in which the rankings are determined are fundamentally
different.  It would be hard to simulate a poll with a computer ranking
program (probably impossible, unless computers could watch the games and think
for themselves.)
 
I hope someone can answer my question.  I am not trying to be critical of the
TCHCR, merely curious.  One more question, if it can be easily answered, How
much weight is given to the strength of schedule in determining the team's
final ranking.  Thnaks in advance for any answers, and I am sorry if I have m
missed any previuos answers to similar questions.
 
-Ryan Stone                                          \ /
 Lawrence University (Appleton, WI) '93          /    X
 Rensselaer '93                                    __/ \__
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| RYAN G. STONE                     | "An individual can make a difference, |
| Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute  |  a team can make a miracle."          |
| e-mail: [log in to unmask]           |              - 1980 U.S. Hockey Team  |
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