Fantasy Footballers Podcast: "Busts + Key Position Battles" Episode Summary

Release Date: August 23, 2018

The Fantasy Footballers, consisting of Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright, delve deep into identifying potential busts and analyzing key position battles in the 2018 NFL preseason. This episode offers insightful analysis, robust discussions, and actionable advice for fantasy football enthusiasts aiming to dominate their leagues.

1. Introduction to the Episode

The hosts kick off the episode with their characteristic banter, setting the stage for a discussion centered around preseason busts and pivotal position battles that could influence fantasy football outcomes.

• Andy Holloway (00:02): "I don't know who you are, but I do know what you need."
• Mike Wright (00:21): "Welcome to the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, coming to you from Draft.com Studios with your hosts, Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright."

2. Understanding 'Busts' in Fantasy Football

Definition and Criteria: The Fantasy Footballers define a "bust" as a player who significantly underperforms relative to their draft value. This underperformance is measured against the expectations set during drafts, where players are selected based on projected contributions.

• Mike Wright (13:55): "A bust in fantasy football is a player that vastly underperforms relative to their draft value."

3. Identifying Potential Busts for 2018

a. JuJu Smith-Schuster

• Jason Moore (13:55): "Juju Smith-Schuster is going to disappoint people currently drafting him in the middle of the fourth round at wide receiver 16."

  Concerns:

  • Draft Position vs. Value: Being drafted as the 16th wide receiver raises questions about JuJu’s ability to justify his high draft slot.
  • Dependency on Antonio Brown: JuJu's performance is heavily reliant on the presence and health of Antonio Brown. Without Brown, JuJu might not receive sufficient targets.

• Andy Holloway (17:34): "He is being overdrafted because of his name and he will disappoint you."

b. Jimmy Garoppolo

• Mike Wright (17:35): "Jimmy Garoppolo is my bust pick. His schedule isn’t favorable, and I don’t see his touchdowns translating to fantasy success."

  Concerns:

  • Inconsistent Production: Despite a promising preseason, Garoppolo's limited red zone efficiency could hinder his fantasy value.
  • Supporting Cast Issues: Lack of reliable receivers and a murky offense undercuts his potential upside.

c. Ronald Jones and Greg Olson

• Andy Holloway (19:26): "Ronald Jones has been inconsistent in camp and preseason, making him an honorary mention instead of a definitive bust."

• Andy Holloway (21:25): "Greg Olson, once a top-tier tight end, is now being drafted at an inflated value despite his declining usage and age."

  Concerns:

  • Age and Injury History: Greg Olson is nearing 34 years old with a history of injuries, reducing his reliability.
  • Shift in Team Dynamics: The emergence of other tight ends lessens Olson's target share, impacting his fantasy output.

d. Brandon Cooks

• Jason Moore (26:36): "Brandon Cooks is being overvalued despite consistent high targets because the Rams' offense spreads the ball too thin."

  Concerns:

  • Passing Volume: With multiple receivers like Cooper Kupp and Robert Woods, Cooks may not secure enough consistent targets to justify his draft position.
  • Team's Offensive Strategy: The Rams' tendency to diversify their passing attack limits Cooks' opportunity to accumulate significant yardage and touchdowns.

4. Key Position Battles to Watch

While the primary focus is on identifying busts, the hosts also touch upon key position battles that could have significant fantasy implications.

• Quarterbacks:

  • Dak Prescott vs. Team Offensive Line Issues: With Travis Frederick's injury, Prescott’s performance might be impacted due to potential struggles in the offensive line.
  • Geronimo Allison’s Role: As a starting wide receiver for Aaron Rodgers, Allison’s performance could be pivotal for fantasy managers.

• Wide Receivers:

  • Marquise Goodwin vs. Pierre Garcon: Goodwin’s increased targets under Jimmy Garoppolo might not translate to consistent fantasy points, especially with Garcon’s return affecting target distribution.

5. Listener Questions and Expert Advice

a. Noah from Austin, Texas

• Question: "I have Allen Robinson, Trey Burton, and Jordan Howard on my keeper league roster. Should I be worried?"
• Advice:
  • Andy Holloway: Suggests diversifying by trading either Allen Robinson or Trey Burton to avoid over-reliance on Bears players and potential quarterback inconsistencies.

b. Steve from Chicago

• Question: "In a 10-man PPR league, should I keep Chris Carson, Robbie Anderson, or Kenny Stills?"
• Advice:
  • Andy Holloway & Mike Wright: Recommend keeping Chris Carson and Robbie Anderson over Kenny Stills based on consistency and opportunity.

c. Eric from Youngstown, Ohio

• Question: "I have Burton and Gronk on my half-point PPR, 12-man dynasty league. Should I trade Gronk for a receiver or running back?"
• Advice:
  • Mike Wright: Advises against trading Gronk, emphasizing his consistent value.
  • Jason Moore: Suggests considering early season performance before making a trade.

d. Trey in South Carolina

• Question: "Is Geronimo Allison being undervalued, considering Randall Cobb’s situation?"
• Advice:
  • Jason Moore: Highlights Allison’s potential as a starting wide receiver for a high-performing quarterback.
  • Andy Holloway: Emphasizes not overvaluing Randall Cobb amid uncertain reports.

6. Promotions and Community Engagement

Throughout the episode, the hosts promote their resources and engage with their community:

• Ultimate Draft Kit: Mike Wright highlights the importance of their comprehensive draft tool for preparing for the upcoming fantasy football season.

  • Mike Wright (02:29): "Now, if you have the Ultimate Draft Kit, you know our sleepers, breakouts, bust values, our consensus picks are all in the Ultimate Draft Kit."

• NFL Game Pass & FanDuel Sponsorships: The hosts discuss how listeners can stay updated with live preseason games and participate in contests to enhance their fantasy experience.

7. Conclusion

The Fantasy Footballers wrap up the episode by reiterating the importance of independent analysis and making informed decisions based on comprehensive data rather than solely relying on popular opinions or high draft positions.

• Andy Holloway (32:41): "We want to equip you guys and gals to hear the information, discern it yourself, and make your own decisions in your leagues."

Listeners are encouraged to join the Fantasy Footballers community, follow them on social media, and utilize their extensive resources to gain an edge in their fantasy football endeavors.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Andy Holloway (17:34): "He is being overdrafted because of his name and he will disappoint you."
• Mike Wright (17:35): "Jimmy Garoppolo is my bust pick. His schedule isn’t favorable, and I don’t see his touchdowns translating to fantasy success."
• Jason Moore (27:15): "Brandon Cooks is being overvalued despite consistent high targets because the Rams' offense spreads the ball too thin."
• Andy Holloway (32:41): "We want to equip you guys and gals to hear the information, discern it yourself, and make your own decisions in your leagues."

This episode serves as a crucial guide for fantasy managers, highlighting the importance of scrutinizing player values, understanding team dynamics, and making strategic decisions to ensure a competitive edge throughout the fantasy football season.