Fantasy Footballers Podcast Episode Summary
Title: Early Top 10 RB Rankings, McVay Cologne, Dinner Bells
Release Date: April 2, 2019
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
1. Introduction
The episode kicks off with a light-hearted banter among the hosts, marking the end of April Fool's Day and transitioning into the core fantasy football discussions. Andy Holloway emphasizes the importance of early rankings for the upcoming 2019 season, setting the stage for an in-depth analysis of running backs.
2. Poll Discussion: Stranded Scenario
Timestamp: [02:18] - [04:14]
Mike Wright presents a fun poll to the Foot Clan audience: "You're on a cross-country road trip, blow a tire, and a stranger stops to help. Who do you want to lend a hand—Andy, Mike, or Jason?"
- Poll Results:
- Mike Wright: 45%
- Andy Holloway: 37%
- Jason Moore: 18%
Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [04:05]: "Mike is winning the poll. 45% of people would want to see Mike get out of that car."
The hosts humorously discuss the results, highlighting their personalities and roles within the podcast.
3. Jordan Howard Trade Impact
Timestamp: [04:22] - [09:23]
The primary focus shifts to the trade of Jordan Howard from the Chicago Bears to the Philadelphia Eagles. The discussion revolves around how this move affects both teams' backfields.
-
Andy Holloway argues that the Bears benefit by acquiring Mike Davis, a versatile back who can complement their roster.
Quote:
Andy Holloway [05:15]: "Mike Davis is the big winner here as well as the opportunity." -
Mike Wright expresses confidence in the Eagles' ability to utilize Howard's skills effectively within their offense.
Quote:
Mike Wright [07:43]: "Jordan Howard, I like it." -
Jason Moore emphasizes the potential for Howard to thrive in Philadelphia's offense, drawing comparisons to past players.
Quote:
Jason Moore [08:37]: "Jameson Crowder going away. It looks like Clement and Adams will be there..."
Key Insights:
- Philadelphia Eagles: Opportunity for Howard to achieve double-digit touchdowns due to a robust offensive scheme.
- Chicago Bears: Acquisition of Mike Davis offers depth and flexibility without the uncertainties associated with Howard's performance trends.
4. News and Updates from the League
Timestamp: [11:05] - [16:40]
The hosts delve into various NFL news affecting fantasy football players:
-
Raiders Acquire Isaiah Crowell:
Mike Wright [11:13]: "Raiders have agreed to terms with Isaiah Crowell..." -
Building Around Derrick Henry:
Discussion on the Tennessee Titans' strategy to center their offense around Derrick Henry, highlighting coach Mike Vrabel's commitment.Andy Holloway [12:13]: "They started giving Henry 18 carries a game... They are figuring out how to use them."
-
Colts' Confidence in Marlon Mack:
Mike Wright [14:00]: "Chris Ballard says the team believes Marlon Mack can play on all three downs." -
Vikings' Dalvin Cook and Jay Gruden's Excitement for Trey Quinn:
Jay Gruden: Enthusiasm for Trey Quinn's role in the offense, positioning him as a key slot receiver.
Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [12:13]: "I am a believer [in building around Henry]."
5. Consensus Top 10 Running Back Rankings
Timestamp: [17:17] - [57:06]
The heart of the episode is the discussion and consensus-building around the early Top 10 running backs for the 2019 season. Each host shares their rankings and the reasoning behind their positions, incorporating statistical analysis and team dynamics.
Top 10 Running Backs:
-
Ezekiel Elliott (DAL)
- Consensus: Number 1
- Key Points:
- Transition to a more pass-heavy role with increased receptions.
- Consistently high rushing yards per game.
- Offensive improvements with additions like Amari Cooper.
Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [18:05]: "He had four fewer targets than Alvin Camara. I agree the positive regression makes sense with Zeke, but..." -
Saquon Barkley (NYG)
- Consensus: Number 2
- Key Points:
- High volume of receptions and rushing attempts.
- Led league in scrimmage yards in his rookie season.
- Concerns about workload and potential regression.
Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [22:32]: "Saquon would be my number one because I do expect Zeke to slightly go backwards in receptions." -
Christian McCaffrey (CAR)
- Consensus: Number 3
- Key Points:
- Versatile in both rushing and receiving.
- Concerns about workload and Cam Newton's health.
- High ceiling due to usage in the offense.
Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [20:09]: "He belongs. He's cemented in the top five." -
Melvin Gordon (LAR)
- Consensus: Number 4
- Key Points:
- Reliable three-down back.
- Injury concerns and missed games.
- High touchdown potential when healthy.
Notable Quote:
Jason Moore [30:23]: "I take him as the foundational running back for my team." -
Alvin Kamara (NO)
- Consensus: Number 5
- Key Points:
- Established as a dominant back in a high-powered offense.
- Concerns about usage consistency.
- High receive metrics enhance fantasy value.
-
Todd Gurley (LAR)
- Consensus: Number 6
- Key Points:
- Busy offseason with injury concerns.
- High touchdown potential if healthy.
- Dependent on team’s offensive strategy.
-
Joe Mixon (CIN)
- Consensus: Number 7
- Key Points:
- Significant improvement and increased usage under new coaching.
- Potential to be a top producer if given more touches.
- Stability and talent make him a reliable fantasy asset.
Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [43:37]: "Joe Mixon should be an absolute one, should be drafted with full confidence." -
James Conner (PIT)
- Consensus: Number 8
- Key Points:
- Stepped up as the primary back after Le'Veon Bell's departure.
- Concerns about offensive line and system adjustments.
- Potential for high usage but with some speculative risks.
-
Dalvin Cook (MIN)
- Consensus: Number 9
- Key Points:
- Exceptional talent and high yardage per carry.
- Health concerns due to past knee issues.
- Central figure in Minnesota's offense, offering high upside.
Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [49:32]: "Dalvin Cook is the best combination of upside and draft value available for the entire season." -
Le'Veon Bell (NYJ)
- Consensus: Number 10
- Key Points:
- High usage in a struggling offense.
- Potential for consistent touches but limited by team performance.
- Lower ceiling due to offensive constraints.
Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [56:26]: "Nothing makes me happier than a dinner bell. Because nothing makes me happier than dinner. So should he show out, we are getting a dinner bell."
Additional Insights:
- Risk vs. Reward: The hosts emphasize balancing player talent with injury risk and team offense quality.
- Consistency vs. Upside: Players like Ezekiel Elliott and Saquon Barkley are lauded for their consistency, while others like Dalvin Cook offer higher upside with potential risks.
- Team Dynamics: The impact of coaching changes and team strategies are pivotal in determining player performance, especially for emerging backs.
6. Closing Remarks
Timestamp: [57:06] - [58:29]
The hosts wrap up the Top 10 rankings, reiterating the importance of these players in early fantasy considerations. They briefly discuss an email about a Carrion Johnson signed jersey available on Pristine Auction, encouraging listeners to check out authentic merchandise.
Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [57:06]: "Zeke, Saquon, Christian McCaffrey, Melvin Gordon, Alvin Camara, Todd Gurley, Joe Mixon, James Conner, Dalvin Cook, Lev Bell."
The episode concludes with standard fare, inviting listeners to join their fantasy football community and follow them on Twitter for more updates and insights.
Conclusion
This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast provides a comprehensive early-season analysis of running back rankings, enriched with statistical assessment and insights into team strategies. The hosts blend humor and expertise, making complex fantasy decisions accessible and engaging for listeners. Notable quotes and discussions highlight the depth of their analysis, offering valuable guidance for fantasy football enthusiasts gearing up for the 2019 season.