Fantasy Footballers Podcast Episode Summary
Episode Title: Fantasy Football 2018 - Regress or Impress? LIVE Tour Announce!
Release Date: May 15, 2018
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
Introduction
In this engaging episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, the expert trio—Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright—delve into crucial fantasy football discussions as they prepare listeners for the upcoming 2018 season. The hosts inaugurate the episode with exciting announcements and segue into their signature segment, "Regress or Impress", where they analyze player performances and forecast their potential for the new season.
Major Announcements
1. Ultimate Draft Kit Preorder
Andy Holloway kicks off the show [00:00] by promoting the Ultimate Draft Kit, emphasizing its comprehensive resources designed to give fantasy players a competitive edge. With "100 plus video profiles," "rookie rankings," and "tier-based drafting," the kit is positioned as essential for league victory. Holloway urges listeners to "get it now before June 1st" at [ultimate draft kit.com](http://ultimate draftkit.com).
2. Release of 2018 Rankings
A significant mid-show announcement [02:07] reveals that the Fantasy Footballers' initial 2018 player rankings are now available on their website, fantasyfootballers.com. Jason Moore and Andy Holloway express excitement over the meticulous work that went into statting out each player, considering factors like coaching changes, offensive philosophies, and market shares. Holloway humorously anticipates debates over rankings with the statement, "fight and yell at each other about how stupid you are for your rankings when clearly mine are the best" [02:30].
3. Fantasy for the People LIVE Tour
At [09:07], the hosts officially announce the Fantasy for the People Tour, presented by Draft.com. The tour includes stops in major cities such as Minneapolis, Philadelphia, New York City, Dallas, and Phoenix, featuring live podcast tapings and interactive events with fans. Jason Moore enthusiastically details the experience, highlighting past events where "Brooks watered a large quantity of our fans" [09:44]. Tickets are available through an exclusive presale lottery by signing up at draft.comballers, with general sales commencing on Friday at ballerslive.com.
Regress or Impress Segment
In this segment, the hosts analyze whether specific players are likely to regress to the mean or continue to impress based on their previous performances. The discussion covers key positions: quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, and tight ends.
Quarterbacks
Philip Rivers
Andy Holloway initiates the discussion on Philip Rivers [12:02], reflecting on Rivers' impressive last season where he amassed 4,500 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. However, concerns arise around Rivers' efficiency due to an increase in defensive pressure and a strengthened Chargers' defense. Holloway suggests a slight regression, stating, "I think he will be undervalued in drafts" [15:25].
Jason Moore counters by highlighting Rivers' consistent performance and strong receiving corps, including Keenan Allen, which he believes will sustain Rivers' fantasy value. Moore concludes that Rivers is poised to "impress" this year [17:00].
Jared Goff
Jason Moore and Mike Wright explore Jared Goff's potential [19:12], noting his solid first year as the Rams' quarterback. While Moore argues that Calvin Goff's performance last year doesn't necessarily warrant a top-tier fantasy ranking, Holloway remains skeptical about Goff taking a significant step forward, predicting a regression [19:57].
Running Backs
Deion Lewis
Jason Moore introduces Deion Lewis [24:15], a versatile back for the Tennessee Titans, questioning his consistency and role alongside Derek Henry. Mike Wright emphasizes concerns over Lewis' workload and injury proneness, suggesting he may only secure 7-8 carries per game [27:02]. Despite the uncertainty, Andy Holloway remains cautiously optimistic about drafting Lewis due to his early-season potential, though he acknowledges the risk of injuries [28:03].
Alex Collins
The discussion shifts to Alex Collins [31:17], where Moore highlights his breakout performance last season. Andy Holloway foresees Collins benefiting from an improved Baltimore offense and a stronger schedule, categorizing him as likely to impress [33:24]. However, Mike Wright advises a slight regression, wary of possible reduced usage due to competition within the backfield [34:27].
Wide Receivers
Marvin Jones
Marvin Jones is scrutinized for his high touchdown output last season [37:05]. Jason Moore likens Jones to a "touchdown or bust" player, expressing reservations about his consistency despite solid receiving statistics [37:05]. In contrast, Andy Holloway believes Jones can maintain his reception numbers but anticipates a regression in touchdown targets [38:12]. Mike Wright categorizes Jones as a regression candidate due to potential variability in touchdowns [38:38].
Adam Thielen and Stefan Diggs
The debate intensifies around Adam Thielen vs. Stefan Diggs [41:23]. Jason Moore strongly advocates for Thielen's fantasy value, arguing that his route-running and increased quarterback support will lead to a "step forward" this season, whereas Diggs remains a solid option but slightly lower in rankings [42:22]. Andy Holloway concurs, positioning Thielen as a valuable asset due to his role in a balanced Minnesota offense and expecting "impress" from Thielen [43:02].
Tight Ends
Evan Ingram
Evan Ingram [47:55] is assessed for his reliability and target volume. Mike Wright acknowledges his struggles with catch rate but maintains optimism about his target consistency, positioning him as a top-five tight end with expected impression [47:55]. Jason Moore supports this view, highlighting Ingram's potential despite past inefficiencies [49:13].
Jimmy Graham
Jimmy Graham [50:07] garners mixed reviews. Jason Moore defends Graham's red-zone prowess and Aaron Rodgers' need to distribute touchdowns, elevating Graham to a top-five tight end [50:07]. Conversely, Andy Holloway and Mike Wright express skepticism over Graham's diminishing performance and durability, categorizing him as a regression [51:57]. The debate underscores Graham's fantasy volatility, with Moore emphasizing his touchdown potential against Holloway and Wright's concerns over declining productivity.
Conclusion
The episode concludes with a recap of the major announcements and a final push for the Fantasy for the People Tour. The hosts reiterate their excitement for the upcoming season, encouraging listeners to engage with their rankings and live events.
Notable Quotes
- Andy Holloway [02:30]: "fight and yell at each other about how stupid you are for your rankings when clearly mine are the best."
- Andy Holloway [15:25]: "I think he will be undervalued in drafts."
- Jason Moore [17:00]: "Philip Rivers is poised to impress this year."
- Andy Holloway [33:24]: "I think he's going to get a step forward and continue to impress."
- Jason Moore [37:05]: "Marvin Jones is a touchdown or bust type of player."
- Jason Moore [41:23]: "Adam Thielen has far greater fantasy value than Stefan Diggs."
Final Thoughts
This episode is a treasure trove of insights for fantasy football enthusiasts, blending strategic analysis with entertaining banter. The Fantasy Footballers provide a balanced perspective on player performances and potential, equipping listeners with the knowledge to make informed draft decisions. Whether you're navigating quarterback rankings or debating tight end prospects, this episode offers valuable guidance to dominate your fantasy league in 2018.