Reference

I found some examples of unusual circumstances or irregularities that have affected the standings of sports teams:

1. Premier League Performances: The Premier League saw a drop in the performance levels of some top teams compared to previous seasons. This shift might be due to various factors such as changes in team management, player transfers, injuries, and tactical adjustments. For more detailed analysis, you can refer to the NY Times article on the Premier League.

2. Controversial Match Decisions: In a match between Real Sociedad and Barcelona, a controversial offside call against Robert Lewandowski impacted the game's outcome, ending Barcelona's seven-game winning streak. Such decisions can often affect team standings, contributing to fluctuations over the season. Additional details can be found in the NY Times article on this match.

3. NFL Division Alignments and Tie-breaking: The alignment of teams within divisions and the procedures for tie-breaking in the NFL can sometimes lead to unexpected standings. These alignments often consider historical rivalries and logistical aspects rather than purely geographical considerations, which can lead to what might seem like irregular standing scenarios. More comprehensive insights into NFL policies can be accessed here.

These examples illustrate how various external factors can lead to unexpected outcomes in sports leagues, affecting team standings beyond just on-pitch performance.