Fantasy Footballers Podcast - Episode Summary

Episode: Fantasy Football 2017 - Week 3 Matchups, In-or-Out, Gurley Delivers
Release Date: September 22, 2017
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

1. Introduction and Set Decoration Banter

The episode kicks off with the hosts engaging in light-hearted banter about Todd Gurley-themed decorations adorning their studio. Andy Holloway reveals a collection of Gurley memorabilia, prompting laughter and playful teasing among the trio.

“I've had to hide them around the office where you guys didn't know they existed for so long that I brought them all out.”
— Andy Holloway [01:29]

2. Todd Gurley’s Stellar Performance

The primary focus of the episode centers on Todd Gurley’s outstanding performance in Week 2. Andy praises Gurley’s abilities, emphasizing his dominance despite the Rams' defensive struggles.

“Mike had Todd Gurley ranked higher than Jason or myself, the Gurley truther this week... Todd Gurley delivered absolute dominance.”
— Mike Wright [06:10]

Andy discusses Gurley’s matchup challenges ahead, highlighting a favorable week against Dallas but expressing concerns over upcoming games against robust defenses like the Seahawks and Giants.

“Next week he gets Dallas. That's another good matchup... six defenses right in a row.”
— Andy Holloway [07:15]

3. Jared Goff’s Performance and Deserved Apology

The hosts shift focus to Jared Goff, acknowledging his remarkable improvement and highlighting the unfair criticism he has faced.

“He absolutely deserves an apology because he was on this show and in every media environment under the sun, he was spat upon.”
— Andy Holloway [04:23]

They commend Goff for his increasing passer rating and his role in the Rams’ offensive success, noting his resilience despite not being a playoff contender.

“Jared Goff is on pace to make the largest single passer rating jump for a sophomore QB from his rookie season since 1970.”
— Andy Holloway [04:16]

4. Trading Todd Gurley for Other Players

The discussion transitions to potential trades involving Todd Gurley. The hosts debate the value of Gurley compared to other running backs like Ezekiel Elliott, Kareem Hunt, and Devonta Freeman.

“If I could get A.J. Green and Dalvin Cook for Todd Gurley, that's a perfect trade.”
— Andy Holloway [09:32]

They emphasize the importance of trading responsibly and securing top-tier running back value, highlighting Gurley’s potential despite a challenging schedule.

5. Sammy Watkins’ Breakout Performance

Sammy Watkins’ impressive game is analyzed, with the hosts debating his future with the Rams and his impact on fantasy lineups.

“Sammy Watkins had an absolute monster game. A Willie Mays catch over his shoulders.”
— Andy Holloway [11:45]

Mike shares his excitement about Watkins’ increased targets and potential as a reliable fantasy asset moving forward.

6. In-or-Out Segment: Player Status for Week 3

The hosts conduct their regular In-or-Out segment, evaluating various players’ availability and performance leading into Week 3. They discuss injuries, player performance, and strategic decisions for fantasy lineups.

Running Backs:

• Demarco Murray: Andy votes In, Jason leans towards Out due to uncertainty.
• Jordan Howard: Jason and Mike agree he’s likely In.
• Melvin Gordon: Confirmed In by all hosts.
• Rex Burkhead: Decided Out.

“Jay Ajayi is still on the waiver wire. I would go with Danny Amadola.”
— Jason Moore [51:17]

Wide Receivers:

• Jordy Nelson: All agree In.
• Randall Cobb: Jason opts for Out.
• John Brown: Decided In.
• Kenny Stills: Confirmed by Mike to still be a starter.

Tight Ends:

• Rob Gunkowski: Expected In.
• Jordan Reed: All agree In.
• Tyler Ifert: Decided Out.
• Jimmy Graham: Consensus Out due to injury.

7. News and Updates

The News and Notes segment covers recent developments affecting fantasy lineups, including player injuries and coaching decisions.

• Devonta Parker’s Injury: Mike retracts his start of the week for Parker due to ankle concerns.

  “When you've practiced and then all of a sudden you're out the next day.”
  — Mike Wright [17:12]

• Deontay Foreman’s Role: Bill O’Brien has announced Foreman will receive more offensive snaps ahead of Alfred Blue.

  “Any rookie is worth rostering in that situation.”
  — Andy Holloway [19:51]

• Melvin Gordon’s Injury: Added to the injury report with a knee issue but remains In.

8. Fantasy Forecast: Week 3 Matchups and Player Recommendations

The Fantasy Forecast dives deep into Week 3’s key matchups, providing strategic advice on which players to start or sit based on their opponents and recent performances.

• Texans vs. Patriots:

  • DeAndre Hopkins: Highly recommended Start due to his volume and matchup.
  • James White: Suggested as a valuable RB option against the Patriots’ weak defense.

  “DeAndre Hopkins is startable every single week. You have to play him.”
  — Mike Wright [30:36]

• Giants vs. Eagles:

  • Alshon Jeffery: Strong Start choice considering the Eagles' improved offense and Giants' defensive challenges.

  “Alshon Jeffrey is a stud. When he's on the field, he performs.”
  — Mike Wright [37:54]

• Chiefs vs. Chargers:

  • Aaron Rodgers, Matt Stafford, Kirk Cousins, Jay Cutler, Big Ben: Recommended to Start due to favorable matchups and offensive strengths.

  “The Chiefs offense, I’m starting them all.”
  — Mike Wright [45:44]

• Raiders vs. Redskins:

  • Terrell Pryor: Viewed as a pivotal player; potential Start depending on performance.

  “If Pryor cannot take advantage of this situation, I will be looking for streaming options.”
  — Andy Holloway [46:06]

• Others:

  • Dak Prescott: No concerns for Week 3, strongly recommended to Start.
  • Zach Ertz: Highlighted as an excellent tight end option due to high target volume.

9. Live Draft Session

The episode features a live draft segment where the hosts draft five quarterbacks each, competing to see who selects the best lineup. The session includes playful competition and strategic selections to optimize their fantasy teams.

• Selections Highlight:
  • Andy Holloway: Selects Tom Brady, Derek Carr, Philip Rivers.
  • Jason Moore: Chooses Matt Ryan, Cam Newton, Drew Brees, Dak Prescott, Russell Wilson.
  • Mike Wright: Picks Aaron Rodgers, Matt Stafford, Kirk Cousins, Jay Cutler, Big Ben.

“We are going to each draft five quarterbacks and face off head to head.”
— Andy Holloway [15:27]

The draft concludes with humorous exchanges and anticipation for the hosts’ fantasy performances.

10. Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The hosts wrap up the episode by thanking sponsors, encouraging listeners to engage with their platforms, and wishing everyone luck for Week 3 matchups.

“Good luck, Foot Clan.”
— Mike Wright [62:07]

They also promote their DFS podcast and remind listeners to follow them on social media for updates and additional insights.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• “He absolutely deserves an apology because he was on this show and in every media environment under the sun, he was spat upon.”
  — Andy Holloway [04:23]

• “If I could get A.J. Green and Dalvin Cook for Todd Gurley, that's a perfect trade.”
  — Andy Holloway [09:32]

• “DeAndre Hopkins is startable every single week. You have to play him.”
  — Mike Wright [30:36]

• “Alshon Jeffrey is a stud. When he's on the field, he performs.”
  — Mike Wright [37:54]

• “Good luck, Foot Clan.”
  — Mike Wright [62:07]

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast provides a comprehensive analysis of Week 3’s fantasy football landscape, offering valuable insights into player performances, strategic trade considerations, and lineup decisions. Whether you're a seasoned fantasy manager or new to the game, the hosts deliver actionable advice to help you navigate your league with confidence.