Fantasy Football Today – Beyond the Box Score: Colts and Browns WRs, Bears Offensive Changes, Ravens Outlook (11/18)
Release Date: November 18, 2024
Hosted by Adam Aizer with analysts Dave Richard, Jamey Eisenberg, Heath Cummings, and more.
1. Chargers vs. Bengals Game Breakdown
Dominant Bengals Offense:
The episode kicks off with an in-depth analysis of the recent Chargers vs. Bengals matchup. The Bengals showcased a high-octane offense, running 71, 75, and 78 plays over the last three games, effectively controlling time of possession. This relentless tempo has unlocked their offensive potential, allowing Joe Burrow to consistently rack up fantasy points.
Joe Burrow’s Stellar Performance:
Joe Burrow has been a fantasy powerhouse, accumulating over 35 fantasy points in three consecutive games against formidable defenses like the Raiders, Ravens, and Chargers. Analyst Dan praises Burrow's "anticipation and processing defenses," highlighting his efficiency and ability to lock in on targets.
Notable Quote:
Dan: "These are two of the best quarterbacks in the NFL last night. That was what football should look like, in my opinion."
[05:30]
Justin Herbert’s Quarterback Play:
Justin Herbert of the Chargers is equally impressive, demonstrating one of the best pure quarterback performances of the season. His ability to utilize seams with receivers like Will Disley and his anticipatory throws have significantly elevated his game.
Notable Quote:
Adam: "I think he's a must start going forward because his schedule and the way he's playing make him the way he's playing."
[14:26]
2. Wide Receiver Analysis: Quinn Johnson & Lad McConkey
Quinn Johnson’s Efficiency:
Quinn Johnson has emerged as a reliable fantasy asset, especially when paired with a high pass rate. His yards per target have surged, making him a top-tier option in favorable matchups.
Lad McConkey’s Rise:
Lad McConkey has seen increased targets in games with higher projected over/under totals. His efficiency and ability to produce yardage make him a valuable addition to fantasy rosters.
Notable Quote:
Dan: "McConkey is really efficient at producing yardage."
[07:08]
3. MVP Voting: Lamar Jackson vs. Josh Allen
Poll Results & Analysis:
The podcast delves into the ongoing MVP debate, with Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen as frontrunners. Despite Josh Allen leading the poll with 43%, Lamar Jackson presents a compelling case with superior statistics.
Notable Quote:
Dan: "Lamar Jackson has 333 more passing yards, seven more passing touchdowns, two fewer interceptions, 1.5 more yards per attempt, 67% completion rate versus 64%."
[21:03]
Adam’s Perspective:
Adam contends that Lamar Jackson’s advanced metrics and exceptional performance justify his MVP candidacy, even with a 7-4 team record.
4. Giants’ Offensive Changes: Tommy DeVito Takes Over
Impact on Malik Neighbors:
Tommy DeVito replacing Daniel Jones raises concerns about wide receiver Malik Neighbors. Analysts discuss whether DeVito’s style will limit Neighbors’ deep-shot opportunities.
Notable Quote:
Dan: "I think this is bad for Malik Neighbors. He's not a deep shot type quarterback."
[22:40]
Potential Upside:
Despite concerns, DeVito brings rushing ability to the table, which could add a new dimension to the Giants’ offense.
5. Injury Updates
Key Injuries:
- Darnell Mooney: Suffering a hamstring injury, expected back by Week 12.
- Djuan Jones: Cleveland Browns’ receiver out for the season with a broken leg.
- Alex Anzalone: Linebacker for the Lions possibly out for the rest of the regular season.
6. Advanced Stats Spotlight
Christian Watson’s Efficiency:
Christian Watson is highlighted for his elite yards per route run and catch efficiency, making him a valuable target despite inconsistent playtime.
Notable Quote:
Jacob: "Watson is an elite efficiency producer."
[25:42]
Brock Bowers’ Breakout:
Brock Bowers of the 49ers is identified as a must-start tight end, boasting one of the highest first retarget rates and exceptional yardage.
Notable Quote:
Dan: "Bowers is a must start player."
[31:46]
Caleb Williams’ Improvement:
Caleb Williams shows significant improvement with a high catchable target rate, making him a promising option moving forward.
7. Colts Update: Anthony Richardson and Wide Receivers
Richardson’s Performance:
Anthony Richardson delivered a standout performance in Week 11, throwing for 143 yards in the first three quarters and adding 129 yards and two touchdowns in the fourth quarter.
Notable Quote:
Jacob: "Richardson produced 213 catchable air yards this week."
[42:20]
Wide Receiver Prospects:
Josh Downs is discussed as a reliable receiver for the Colts, while Kendrick Bourne has shown potential despite limited snaps.
8. Bears Offensive Changes
New Offensive Coordinator’s Impact:
The Bears have implemented significant changes under their new offensive coordinator, increasing pre-snap motion and three-receiver sets, leading to higher first retarget rates and improved offensive efficiency.
Notable Quote:
Jacob: "Their first retarget rate is huge, especially for fantasy relevance."
[48:03]
Personnel Usage:
The Bears are utilizing a more consistent personnel set, enhancing opportunities for key players like DJ Moore.
9. Ravens’ Outlook and Challenging Schedule
Upcoming Difficult Matchups:
The Ravens face a tough schedule ahead, including games against the Chargers, Eagles, Giants, Steelers, and Houston. Concerns are raised about maintaining offensive performance against top defenses.
Lamar Jackson’s Struggles Against Steelers:
Lamar Jackson has notably struggled against the Steelers, with a recent game showing below-average performance and high interception rates.
Notable Quote:
Adam: "He had some plays to make and he didn't make them. That's more on Lamar Jackson than Pittsburgh."
[61:58]
Derek Henry vs. Chase Brown:
The debate continues between using Derek Henry or Chase Brown for the Bengals, with Henry being favored despite recent dip in fantasy points.
10. Browns Wide Receivers and Jameis Winston’s Passing
High Air Yards with Volatility:
The Browns’ receivers are generating high air yards but with inconsistent catchability. Jameis Winston’s tendency to throw right-side passes heavily influences receiver performance.
Notable Quote:
Jacob: "Jameis Winston is playing better than Will Levis."
[57:12]
Fantasy Implications:
Fantasy managers face a gamble with Browns’ wide receivers, balancing high volume against potential volatility week-to-week.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with a comprehensive look at key fantasy football concerns, ranging from quarterback performances and wide receiver efficiencies to upcoming matchups and injury impacts. The analysts emphasize the importance of staying informed on advanced stats and player trends to dominate fantasy leagues.
Final Thoughts:
Adam encourages listeners to leverage the insights provided to make strategic decisions ahead of crucial matchups, ensuring their teams remain competitive through the season's end.
Notable Quotes with Timestamps:
- Dan: "These are two of the best quarterbacks in the NFL last night. That was what football should look like, in my opinion."
[05:30] - Jacob: "He had a really low first retarget rate this week and I think that just speaks like how well he was processing things like he does."
[28:03] - Adam: "I think he's a must start going forward because his schedule and the way he's playing make him the way he's playing."
[14:26] - Dan: "McConkey is really efficient at producing yardage."
[07:08]
This detailed summary captures the essence of the podcast episode, highlighting all critical discussions, insights, and conclusions to provide a comprehensive overview for those who haven't listened to the show.