Fantasy Football 2017 - Week 3 Studs & Duds, Rising Stars, Running Back Re-Draft

Release Date: September 25, 2017
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

Introduction: A Week of Upsets and Surprises

Week 3 of the 2017 Fantasy Football season delivered an array of unexpected outcomes, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the NFL. The hosts, Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright, delve into the chaos that unfolded, highlighting how even strong teams can falter under pressure.

Andy Holloway opens the discussion by remarking, “It reminds us, you know, nothing” [00:52], emphasizing the unpredictability of the week's games. The trio reflects on the razor-thin margins that separate the elite teams from those struggling, underscoring the importance of strategic execution in fantasy leagues.

Drafting Running Backs: Reassessing Top Choices

A significant segment of the podcast focuses on re-drafting the top three running backs in light of the ongoing season's developments.

Andy Holloway poses a pivotal question: “If we could redraft the top three running backs, who are they for you?” [03:25]

• Jason Moore aligns with his co-hosts by selecting Le'Veon Bell as his number one pick, citing Bell's dominant history: “He would still be my number one pick. Too large a history of being dominant to ignore” [03:43].

• Mike Wright concurs, adding Bell’s offensive involvement: “The snaps are there. The involvements the Steelers. I firmly believe that the Steelers offense will get figured out” [03:48].

• For the second pick, Kareem Hunt is unanimously favored:

  • Jason Moore states, “That's the clear number two right now. He has been so dominant” [04:24].
  • Andy Holloway highlights Hunt’s workload: “The workload is unbelievable and that's what you have to lean on” [04:21].

• The third spot sparks varied opinions:

  • Mike Wright opts for Zeke Elliott, noting his assured play despite upcoming suspensions: “[05:18] I would still take Zeke number three.”
  • Andy Holloway prefers Dalvin Cook, drawing parallels to Hunt’s usage: “Dalvin Cook is in a situation that's identical to Kareem Hunt... the workload is humongous” [05:43].
  • Jason Moore suggests Ty Montgomery, citing his high utilization and strong offensive support: “Ty Montgomery as that third guy... he's leading the entire running backs in snaps right now” [06:10].

Andy concludes this segment by mentioning other noteworthy running backs like Devonta Freeman and Todd Gurley, debating their placement within the top rankings based on performances and injury concerns.

Weekly Rewind: Key Performances and Injury Updates

The hosts transition into a comprehensive review of the week’s performances, highlighting standout games, pivotal injuries, and their implications on fantasy lineups.

• Randall Cobb’s absence led to Geronimo Allison stepping up: “[08:07] Geronimo Allison was the big beneficiary of that situation.”

• The Washington backfield faces turmoil as Samaj P. Ryan exits with severe injuries: “[09:02] Samaj P. Ryan was forced from week three... he suffered a torn ACL and a broken arm.”

• Darren Sproles’ injury marks the potential end of his career: “[09:59] This might be the end for Darren Sprols.”

• Michael Crabtree’s chest injury is dissected, debating the legitimacy of the penalty called: “[10:34] Crabtree’s hit was a pretty clean hit... he was hit at the same time as his catch” [10:49].

• Quarterback performances are scrutinized, with Cam Newton underperforming and discussions about the return of Andrew Luck: “[16:21] Cam Newton has been horrific and he's not running the ball.”

• Kirk Cousins emerges as a focal point with his evolving roster dynamics: “[31:28] Chris Thompson is emerging as a dependable safety valve.”

The segment underscores the volatile nature of player performances and the constant need for roster adjustments to stay competitive.

Stud Muffins: Top Performers of the Week

In the “Stud Muffins” segment, the hosts highlight players who delivered exceptional performances, earning them top spots in fantasy lineups.

• Tom Brady shines with a stellar 25-for-35 passing for 378 yards and five touchdowns: “[21:26] Tommy Brady was very, very good at football.”

• Russell Wilson matches with four touchdowns, showcasing his offensive prowess: “[21:42] Russell Wilson, four touchdowns.”

• Case Keenum steals the spotlight with an ownership percentage of 0.4%, surpassing established quarterbacks: “[22:31] Those are all QB1s that finished above Drew Brees.”

Andy Holloway praises Brady’s consistency: “[22:43] Tom Brady has not thrown a pick on the year,” highlighting his reliability despite team changes.

The segment emphasizes the importance of selecting high-performing quarterbacks early in drafts to secure valuable points.

Raising Cane's Rising Stars: Emerging Talent to Watch

The “Raising Cane’s Rising Stars” section spotlights breakout players who have demonstrated significant potential, making them valuable additions or pickups in fantasy leagues.

• Chris Thompson emerges as a key player for the Washington offense: “[39:46] Chris Thompson is turning into their X factor weapon.”

• Stefan Diggs secures his position with an impressive 178 yards and two touchdowns: “[40:07] Stefan Diggs fits my rising star in the fact that, look, the talent's always been there.”

• Joe Mixon is mentioned for his potential to deliver big games with increased touches: “[41:16] I already claimed him... but you can now start Joe Mixon.”

Andy Holloway commends Diggs for proving his worth: “[40:53] He proved that you cannot play the game with Diggs on your roster,” reinforcing his indispensability in fantasy lineups.

This segment encourages fantasy managers to monitor these rising stars for potential game-changing performances in upcoming weeks.

Pooped in Their Big Boy Pants: Underperforming Players

Contrasting the rising stars, the “Pooped in Their Big Boy Pants” segment critiques players who have underperformed, prompting fantasy owners to consider dropping or benching them.

• Amari Cooper and Michael Crabtree are singled out for their lackluster performances: “[53:23] Amari Cooper and Crabtree, very eloquent.”

• Tight ends like Hunter Henry receive backlash for their inconsistency: “[56:44] There's no way I'm moving forward with Hunter Henry.”

• Jameson Crowder struggles with low production despite consistent playing time: “[57:02] Crowder is rosterable, not startable.”

Andy Holloway expresses disappointment with several underperforming players: “[53:03] What you're getting back isn't going to be worth it unless you're,” urging managers to assess the value these players bring to their teams.

This segment serves as a caution for managers to reassess their rosters and make necessary adjustments to optimize their lineups.

Listener Q&A: Carson Palmer’s Performance

A listener named Derek from Hawaii voices his concerns regarding Carson Palmer’s declining performance.

Derek’s Voicemail: “Carson Palmer's been pretty terrible… I'm up by about 0.7 points. Only minus one for interceptions” [59:00].

The hosts advise maintaining Palmer in lineups due to potential stat corrections that could flip matchups from wins to losses.

Jason Moore emphasizes the importance of consistency: “[59:17] In most leagues to get into the playoffs, the tiebreaker is going to be total points scored. So think big picture here and make sure you're scoring as much as you can.”

Andy Holloway concludes by reassuring Derek to continue leveraging Palmer’s performances while being mindful of upcoming matchups and potential improvements.

Conclusion: Strategic Adjustments and Looking Ahead

As Week 3 concludes, the Fantasy Footballers underscore the necessity of strategic roster management amidst a week rife with surprises and standout performances. From reassessing running back strategies to identifying rising stars and addressing underperformers, the hosts provide actionable insights to help fantasy managers navigate the volatile landscape of NFL football.

Andy Holloway wraps up with a nod to the community and upcoming episodes: “We'll be back tomorrow with the waiver wire show. Enjoy tonight's game between the Cardinals and Cowboys and thanks for tuning in” [60:34].

Notable Quotes:

• “He never goes down on first contact. It’s just he bounces around and has this balance that is unbelievable.” — Jason Moore on Kareem Hunt [04:24]

• “Every time you even calling him the clear number two, a lot of people would take him first.” — Mike Wright on Kareem Hunt [04:29]

• “He reminds me of those like the bumpers when you play pinball.” — Andy Holloway on Kareem Hunt’s big play capability [04:54]

• “Stud Muffins Tommy Brady was very, very good at football.” — Andy Holloway on Tom Brady’s performance [21:26]

• “Philippines McCaffrey had 9 for 101 through the air… I think you could probably acquire McCaffrey cheaper than what he’s worth.” — Andy Holloway on Christian McCaffrey [31:28]

This comprehensive analysis encapsulates the essence of Week 3, providing fantasy enthusiasts with critical takeaways to bolster their teams in the ensuing weeks.