Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary Episode: Fantasy Football 2017 - Starts of the Week, Week 10 Matchups, Bobbing for Apples
Release Date: November 9, 2017
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

1. Introduction and Upcoming Highlights

The episode kicks off with a brief mention of an upcoming special episode, the "Megalodon" episode scheduled for two weeks later, promising an extra special show filled with giveaways and extensive coverage.

2. Weekly News and Updates

Player Releases and Injuries

• Martellis Bennett: The Packers released veteran tight end Martellis Bennett due to a "Failure to disclose a medical condition." Bennett, who was set to miss the upcoming week due to injury, is rumored to possibly rejoin the Patriots. Jason Moore comments, "[...] the Patriots are not going to pick. They haven't fought for waivers though. They're too smart." ([05:37]).

• Vonte Davis: The Colts released Vonte Davis, who opted for groin surgery over continuing to play. Andy Holloway remarks, "Well, I mean it's either play for the Colts or groin surgery." ([06:09]).

• Team Injury Updates: Deonta Freeman, C.J. Anderson, Emmanuel Sanders, and Danny Amendola were all limited in their recent games. Andy highlights Freeman's ongoing issues, suggesting fantasy managers should monitor his status closely for the upcoming weekend ([07:05]).

Start Sit Focus

The discussion transitions into start-sit considerations, emphasizing the importance of monitoring player statuses, especially during bye weeks and playoff pushes.

3. Fantasy Forecast and Defensive Strategies

Targeting Defenses for Playoffs

Andy Holloway advises frequently rostering two defenses, focusing on matchups crucial for the fantasy playoffs. He highlights the Baltimore Ravens as a must-watch team due to their favorable playoff schedule against the Cleveland Browns and Indianapolis Colts. He emphasizes staying active in the waiver wire to capitalize on such opportunities: "Always drop it like it's hot. Check every single day." ([03:03]).

Triple B's Defense

Mike Wright outlines the strength of the Bears, Bills, and Bengals defenses, collectively referred to as the "Triple B's." Each team is praised for their defensive prowess throughout the season:

• Chicago Bears: Underrated defense with strong performances.
• Buffalo Bills: Improved under McDermott despite roster changes.
• Cincinnati Bengals: Consistently strong defense all year.

He notes their upcoming playoff matchups as advantageous for fantasy managers ([04:10]).

4. In-Depth Player Analysis

Michael Thomas Evaluation

A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Michael Thomas (New Orleans Saints), debating his current fantasy value versus preseason expectations:

• Andy Holloway counters skepticism, asserting Thomas remains a top receiver:

  "He's on pace for 100 and nearly 1100 yards. Yeah, 100." ([15:08]).

• Mike Wright defends Thomas, emphasizing his consistent reception numbers despite limited touchdowns:

  "Michael Thomas has been great. [...] he's a top 12 guy." ([15:54]).

• Jason Moore offers a nuanced view, suggesting while Thomas may not meet top-five expectations, he remains a reliable WR1 with potential touchdown increases:

  "He's a consistent wide receiver too. That's why he's at 17, right." ([16:14]).

Kelvin Benjamin Considerations

The hosts discuss Kelvin Benjamin (Buffalo Bills), debating whether to start him over other receivers. They consider his potential upside against a middling Bills defense, especially with the cold weather possibly limiting passing plays:

• Mike Wright recommends starting Benjamin, citing the Bills' balanced defense:

  "I think on the road Drew Brees gets a little bumped down. So, so Michael Thomas this week." ([10:25]).

Other Player Spotlights

• Drew Stanton vs. Justin Stan: A humorous take on unnecessary incomplete passes highlighting the Packers' quarterback struggles.

• Deon Sims (Chicago Bears): Explored as a streaming tight end option, though skepticism remains regarding Zach Miller's inconsistent volume.

• Duke Johnson (Cleveland Browns): Positioned as a solid RB option against Detroit, who struggles against the run:

  "He's a consistent necessary target there." ([48:10]).

• Sterling Shepherd (San Francisco 49ers): Recommended for a favorable matchup, emphasizing his role with Eli Manning at quarterback.

5. Starts of the Week Recommendations

Running Backs

• Andy Holloway: Recommends Orleans Darkwa against San Francisco, praising his consistent performance and advantageous matchup:

  "He gets it done in the right matchup. He is the starting running back." ([48:19]).

• Mike Wright: Suggests Duke Johnson due to his involvement in the pass game and the Browns' defensive weaknesses:

  "He is a consistent necessary target." ([48:51]).

• Jason Moore: Opts for Bilal Powell over Matt Forte due to Forte's injury concerns:

  "So if it's Matt Forte, if it's Bilal Powell, it's looking more like it's going to be Bilal Powell." ([46:30]).

Wide Receivers

• Andy Holloway: Chooses Muhammad Sanu from Atlanta, highlighting his consistent receptions and touchdown potential:

  "Mohamed Sanu has been super solid for a guy that you got essentially free in the draft." ([50:20]).

• Jason Moore: Selects Sterling Shepherd against San Francisco for his role in the 49ers' passing game:

  "Sterling Shepherd is involved last week. He's their best wide receiver by far." ([49:03]).

• Mike Wright: Picks Robbie Anderson due to Tampa Bay's poor defense against wide receivers:

  "He's very fast. [...] he's been double digits. A touchdown in three consecutive weeks." ([50:21]).

Tight Ends

• Andy Holloway: Recommends Kyle Rudolph facing Washington, whose defense is weak against tight ends:

  "Kyle Rudolph, five or more receptions each of the last four games. He's getting involved." ([50:20]).

• Jason Moore: Suggests Cameron Bray against the Jets, especially with Deon Sims out:

  "Cameron Bray against the Jets, yes." ([50:20]).

Quarterbacks

• Andy Holloway: Endorses Josh McCown against Tampa Bay, citing Ryan Fitzpatrick as streamable:

  "If you stash Josh McCown for this week, I think you're going to be happy." ([44:28]).

• Mike Wright: Suggests King Godfrey (presumably Jared Goff) against Houston, noting Houston's defense struggles against QBs:

  "Godfrey will get it done." ([45:14]).

6. Kicker of the Week

Jason Moore introduces the "Boom Boom Kicker of the Week" segment, shaming Mike Wright's current kicker pick, Chris Boswell of the Pittsburgh Steelers. They playfully joke about needing outro music to emphasize the importance of quick kicker decisions, ultimately naming Chris Boswell as the recommended kicker:

"Boom Boom kicker of the week... Chris Boswell of the Pittsburgh Steelers." ([54:25]).

7. Humorous Interlude: "Bobbing for Apples in the Toilet"

The hosts engage in light-hearted banter about the episode's title and the phrase "bobbing for apples in the toilet," humorously referencing Mike Wright's fantasy performance struggles:

"I'm coming with those turds here. Duke Johnson. No turds, just apples here." ([46:50]).

8. Closing Remarks and Sponsor Messages

The podcast concludes with the hosts promoting their sponsors, Omaha Steaks and Warby Parker, offering exclusive discounts for listeners. They encourage joining their fantasy football community and following them on social media for continued insights and updates ([21:02]).

Notable Quotes

• Andy Holloway on Ravens Defense:

  "The Ravens are going to be a sensational play for the rest of the season." ([03:03])

• Jason Moore on Michael Thomas:

  "He's a reliable WR1 with potential touchdown increases." ([15:38])

• Mike Wright on Duke Johnson:

  "He's been double digits. A touchdown in three consecutive weeks." ([48:51])

• Jason Moore on Chris Boswell Kicker Pick:

  "Boom Boom kicker of the week... Chris Boswell of the Pittsburgh Steelers." ([54:25])

Conclusions and Takeaways

• Monitor Defenses: Target strong defensive teams like the Triple B's for playoff advantages.

• Player Evaluations: Reassess players like Michael Thomas based on current performance rather than preseason hype.

• Start-Sit Strategies: Utilize recommended starts for RBs, WRs, TEs, and QBs to maximize weekly points.

• Kicker Selection: Secure reliable kickers like Chris Boswell to ensure consistent points.

• Stay Informed: Keep abreast of player news, injuries, and matchups to make informed lineup decisions.

This episode provides comprehensive insights into Week 10 matchups, player evaluations, and strategic recommendations to enhance your fantasy football performance. The hosts balance expert analysis with entertaining banter, making complex decisions approachable and engaging for listeners at all levels.