Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary
Episode: Fantasy Football 2017 - WR Rankings Pt. 2 + BIG Zeke News
Release Date: August 11, 2017

Introduction

The Fantasy Footballers kick off the episode with their characteristic blend of enthusiasm and expertise. Hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright welcome both new and returning listeners, emphasizing their mission to help fantasy football enthusiasts dominate their leagues with astute analysis and strategic insights.

Wide Receiver Rankings Part 2

The core of the episode delves into the second part of the wide receiver (WR) rankings for the 2017 fantasy football season. Building upon Part 1, where the top 10 WRs were discussed, the trio extends their analysis to rank additional receivers, offering listeners comprehensive guidance for their drafts.

Key Discussions:

1. Impact of Starting Three WRs Instead of Two:

   • Jason Moore highlights, "Having to start three wide receivers changes your bench strategy significantly. It's crucial to prioritize depth and quality over just having top-tier starters" (05:23).
   • Mike Wright concurs, emphasizing the increased value of WRs in PPR (Points Per Reception) leagues, stating, "You need a high-powered WR corps to maximize weekly points, especially if you're playing four wide receivers" (06:57).

2. Doug Baldwin (#11 Ranking):

   • Andy Holloway notes Baldwin's potential disappointment due to his current average draft position but acknowledges his past performance: "Last season, he was a wide receiver one with five top-seven scoring weeks" (12:32).
   • Jason Moore praises Baldwin's talent and rapport with Russell Wilson, though he expresses concerns about Baldwin not being a primary WR: "I believe he has a ceiling for a career year, but he's not someone you'd want as your only WR" (13:21).

3. Demaryius Thomas (#12 Ranking):

   • Andy Holloway points out Thomas's consistent reception numbers but notes his lack of yardage on receptions: "He only gained 20+ yards on 10 of his 90 receptions, ranking 35th among WRs" (16:26).
   • Jason Moore remains optimistic about Thomas's floor and potential ceiling, citing improvements in the Broncos' offensive line and quarterback play: "His floor is solid, and with Trevor Siemian as QB, his ceiling could rise" (17:18).

4. Sammy Watkins (#13 Ranking):

   • Andy Holloway and Jason Moore discuss Watkins's injury history versus his explosive potential: "Sammy has the ability to deliver big plays consistently when healthy, making him a valuable pick in the mid-rounds" (20:38).
   • Mike Wright adds, "He's a touchdown threat similar to DEZ Bryant, offering high efficiency and big-play potential" (21:17).

5. Terrell Pryor (#15 Ranking):

   • Andy Holloway appreciates Pryor's role in Washington's offense, especially with a solid rapport with Kirk Cousins: "If healthy, Pryor can be a difference-maker in the red zone, making him a top 10 WR for me" (28:47).
   • Jason Moore balances enthusiasm with realism, stating, "While Pryor is talented, his production needs to align with his stats-based evaluation. I see him around WR20 rather than top 10" (33:07).

6. Michael Crabtree (#16 Ranking) & Allen Robinson:

   • Andy Holloway praises Crabtree's consistent target share and red zone opportunities with Derek Carr: "Crabtree's reliability in Washington's offense makes him a strong WR2 option" (40:41).
   • Jason Moore underscores Crabtree's safe floor and efficient target utilization: "With Carr throwing to him in the red zone, Crabtree is a dependable pick even if not a top-tier WR" (43:07).

7. DeAndre Hopkins (#18 Ranking) & Brandon Cooks (#17 Ranking):

   • Andy Holloway and Mike Wright express caution about Hopkins's potential lack of volume despite his talent: "Hopkins needs sufficient targets to remain fantasy relevant, which might be challenging in a run-heavy offense" (46:19).
   • Jason Moore moves up Brandon Cooks in his rankings due to his strong rapport with Tom Brady, despite concerns about inconsistency: "Cooks has the potential to be a top 10 WR with Brady leading the offense, making him a valuable Mid-round pick" (47:31).

Big Zeke News

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the latest news regarding Ezekiel Elliott (Zeke):

• Zeke's Suspension Appeal:
  • Jason Moore shares breaking news, "Adam Schefter reports that Cowboys RB Ezekiel Elliott is expected to appeal his six-game suspension. He has three days to appeal" (29:21).
  • Mike Wright anticipates potential outcomes: "A six-game suspension is severe, but if appealed successfully, it could be reduced. However, expect him to miss at least four games" (30:12).
  • Andy Holloway advises fantasy managers to treat Zeke as unavailable until more clarity is provided: "Given his bye week in week six, most won't see him until week eight, so adjust your draft strategy accordingly" (61:10).

Best Ball Segment

Transitioning from WR rankings, the hosts discuss best ball strategies, offering actionable tips for listeners participating in best ball leagues:

• Roster Construction for Best Ball:

  • Jason Moore emphasizes the importance of a balanced roster with ample WRs: "In best ball, prioritize drafting at least six WRs to maximize weekly starting lineups, especially in 4-WR PPR formats" (58:23).
  • Andy Holloway and Mike Wright reinforce the strategy of waiting on QB and TE positions to focus on WR depth: "Concentrate on securing stellar WR talent early, as QBs and TEs can be grabbed in the later rounds" (58:23).

• Play Draft Promotion:

  • The hosts promote Play Draft as the ideal platform for best ball, highlighting its user-friendly interface and opportunity to win cash prizes: "PlayDraft.com is where you want to play best ball. Join using our code 'ballers' for a free entry and a chance to win prizes" (57:49).

Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episodes

As the episode wraps up, the hosts preview upcoming content:

• Mock Draft Announcement: Scheduled for Monday, providing listeners with a simulated draft experience.
• Preseason Thoughts: A detailed analysis of Week 1 performances and player evaluations.
• Zeke Updates: Ongoing coverage of Ezekiel Elliott's suspension status and its implications for fantasy managers.

Andy Holloway concludes with a reminder to stay engaged with the Fantasy Footballers community: "Subscribe to the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, join our community at jointhefoot.com, and follow us on Twitter @theffballers for all the latest updates and insights" (61:12).

Notable Quotes

• Jason Moore on WR Bench Strategy: "The real key is your bench. More running backs over WRs in standard leagues, but with three WR starts, prioritize WR depth" (05:24).
• Andy Holloway on Doug Baldwin: "Doug is not a prototypical WR1, but in fantasy, he's a perfect complement to a team with his explosive weeks" (12:32).
• Mike Wright on Sammy Watkins: "Sammy is a touchdown guy, similar to DEZ Bryant. His big play potential makes him a top-tier mid-round pick" (21:17).
• Andy Holloway on Terrell Pryor: "Pryor's role in Washington's offense and his red zone capabilities make him a top 10 WR for me" (28:47).
• Jason Moore on Best Ball Roster: "Ensure you have at least six WRs to maximize weekly lineups in best ball leagues, especially in PPR formats" (58:23).

Conclusion

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast provides listeners with an in-depth analysis of wide receiver rankings, crucial updates on Ezekiel Elliott's suspension, and strategic best ball tips. The hosts blend their expert opinions with actionable advice, ensuring fantasy managers are well-equipped for the upcoming season. Stay tuned for their upcoming segments, including mock drafts and preseason evaluations, to stay ahead in your fantasy football endeavors.