Fantasy Resolutions, Tough Calls for Week 18 and 2025
Fantasy Football Today – January 1, 2025
Hosted by Adam Aizer, with analysts Dave Richard, Jamey Eisenberg, Heath Cummings, Ben Schragger, and others.
Introduction and New Year's Resolutions
The episode kicked off with Adam Aizer welcoming listeners to the first show of 2025, expressing excitement about discussing fantasy football new year's resolutions and upcoming tough calls for Week 18. The team commenced with warm congratulations to Adam for his stellar performance in the past fantasy season, highlighting his achievements across various leagues.
Notable Quote:
- Adam Aizer [02:40]: “That may apply. I don’t regret not having Saquon Barkley, but I should have diversified my portfolio.”
Reflecting on the Past Season
Adam shared reflections on how key players, such as T. Higgins and Baker Mayfield, significantly impacted his fantasy season. The discussion underscored the unpredictability of player performances and the importance of drafting strategically across multiple leagues.
Notable Quote:
- Adam Aizer [02:49]: “By the way, welcome to Fantasy Football Today, presented by BetMGM, the sportsbook born in Vegas. Appreciate that in 2024 and looking forward to continuing that in 2025.”
New Year's Resolutions for Fantasy Managers
The team introduced their New Year's resolutions aimed at improving fantasy performance in 2025. Adam emphasized the importance of portfolio diversification, especially for managers participating in multiple leagues. Jamey and Ben shared their strategies, reinforcing the need to balance player selections to mitigate risks.
Notable Quote:
- Adam Aizer [05:42]: “Diversify your portfolio, even if it means drafting someone you weren't planning on drafting. Because you know what? You're going to be wrong a lot.”
Player Movements and Team Changes
The discussion shifted to recent NFL player movements, particularly focusing on running backs changing teams. The analysts debated the potential impacts of these moves on fantasy rankings, citing examples like Derrick Henry and Saquon Barkley who thrived post-move, versus DeAndre Swift who struggled.
Notable Quote:
- Ben Schragger [12:19]: “We've got older running backs that are exceeding expectations. I probably won't be as anti running backs changing teams.”
Tough Calls for Week 18
The core of the episode delved into challenging decisions for Week 18 matchups. The team analyzed various player performances and matchups to guide listeners on optimal starts and sits.
-
Kyler Murray vs. the 49ers:
- Jamey Eisenberg [21:07]: “Kyler Murray is ranked as a starter again. It’s a lot by default.”
- Ben Schragger [22:03]: “He's a top 12 quarterback. I would be cur.”
-
Najee Harris vs. the Bengals:
- Jamie Eisenberg [26:01]: “He has a chance for a good game. It’s a toss-up.”
- Ben Schragger [26:41]: “I would rather start Warren. Naji is a flex for me.”
-
Zay Flowers vs. the Browns:
- Adam Aizer [27:46]: “He’s had a target share of 29.2% but only one good game.”
- Jamie Eisenberg [28:06]: “He’s been more of a number three guy. Ranks as wide receiver 26-28.”
-
Michael Pittman vs. Zay Flowers:
- Jamie Eisenberg [30:57]: “I would start Pittman over Flowers if Flacco is starting.”
- Ben Schragger [30:34]: “I would much rather start Zay Flowers.”
-
Tyreek Hill vs. Jalen Waddle:
- Jamie Eisenberg [31:30]: “Treat Tyreek as a number two or borderline number three.”
- Adam Aizer [33:11]: “Jamie, what do you think about John who Smith?”
Subscriber Questions and Mailbag
Listeners contributed questions via Twitter and emails, which the hosts addressed throughout the episode. Topics ranged from specific player decisions to broader strategy advice, fostering an interactive and engaging environment for the audience.
Notable Quote:
- Adam Aizer [05:30]: “If you're in Week 18, just send me an email with any starter sit questions and that we.”
Tough Calls for 2025
Transitioning to future planning, the team presented tough calls for building successful fantasy teams in 2025. They debated the potential of emerging quarterbacks like Sam Darnold and J.J. McCarthy, weighing their current performances against projected growth.
-
Sam Darnold vs. Kirk Cousins:
- Adam Aizer [36:02]: “Darnold is averaging almost exactly the same points as Cousins last year.”
- Ben Schragger [37:01]: “Treat Sam Darnold like, let’s see where he’s playing. If he’s in Minnesota, I love him.”
-
J.J. McCarthy:
- Jamie Eisenberg [39:14]: “He's considered as good, if not better than some prospects. Could trade him for a first-round pick.”
- Ben Schragger [40:15]: “If you can keep Darnold, I'm for that too. If you can get McCarthy for a first-round pick, that's okay.”
-
John who Smith (Tight End):
- Ben Schragger [53:38]: “John who Smith is tough to rank due to his history and inconsistent performance.”
Evaluating Rookie Prospects and Future Strategies
The analysts explored the potential trajectories of rookie quarterbacks and running backs, considering factors like team fit and coaching strategies. They emphasized the uncertainty surrounding rookies and the importance of monitoring their development over their initial seasons.
Notable Quote:
- Adam Aizer [44:54]: “I have the third pick in our dynasty draft and I'm thinking I desperately need a quarterback.”
Conclusion and Upcoming Segments
Wrapping up, Adam encouraged listeners to participate in upcoming segments, including Week 18 champion decisions and further discussions on 2025 strategies. The hosts thanked their audience, shared their appreciation for the growing YouTube community, and hinted at continued engagement through FFT Express.
Notable Quote:
- Adam Aizer [59:02]: “Thanks for watching and listening. Talk to you tomorrow on Fantasy Football Today.”
Key Takeaways
- Diversify Your Portfolio: Essential for managers in multiple leagues to mitigate risks associated with player underperformance.
- Evaluate Player Movements Carefully: Understand the new team dynamics to make informed drafting and trading decisions.
- Prepare for Week 18: Assess player matchups and recent performances to optimize your lineup for the season's final stretch.
- Plan for the Future: Analyze emerging quarterbacks and rookies with caution, considering their growth potential and team environment.
Notable Quotes Summary
- Adam Aizer [05:42]: “Diversify your portfolio, even if it means drafting someone you weren't planning on drafting.”
- Ben Schragger [12:19]: “We've got older running backs that are exceeding expectations.”
- Jamie Eisenberg [26:01]: “He has a chance for a good game. It’s a toss-up.”
- Adam Aizer [36:02]: “Darnold is averaging almost exactly the same points as Cousins last year.”
- Ben Schragger [53:38]: “John who Smith is tough to rank due to his history and inconsistent performance.”
Fantasy Football Today continues to be your go-to source for expert analysis, player insights, and strategic advice to dominate your fantasy leagues throughout the year.