Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary: "Fantasy Football 2018 - The TRUTH About Fantasy RBs in 2017, Part 1"

Release Date: January 16, 2018

Introduction and Reflections on Recent Playoffs

The episode opens with hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright expressing their astonishment over unexpected outcomes in the recent NFL playoffs. Andy Holloway laments the Jaguars' surprising performance against the Titans:

Andy Holloway [01:02]: "Stefan Diggs, Case Keenum. The end of that game, absolutely bananas."

This discussion sets the tone for the episode, highlighting the unpredictable nature of football and its contrasting impact on fantasy football versus sports betting.

The Truth Series: Analyzing Running Back Consistency

Andy Holloway introduces the episode's primary focus: running back (RB) consistency. This marks the continuation of their ongoing "Truth Series," where the trio objectively assesses player performances devoid of emotional biases.

Jason Moore [03:06]: "The truth serum is what we do is we take a look at the positions and we break down... who were the guys that were very consistent and did not crap your team."

Key insights from this segment include:

• Top-Tier RB Importance: The hosts emphasize the significant disparity in fantasy points between top RBs (e.g., RB1 vs. RB5) and how pivotal securing one of these elite players is for fantasy success.

• Consistency Metrics: They evaluate RBs based on their ability to deliver "great games" (22+ fantasy points), "good games" (10-21 points), and "busts" (fewer than 7 points). These metrics help determine each player's "consistency rank" for the season.

Favorite Players of 2017

The hosts share their favorite players from the 2017 season, highlighting their standout performances and personal preferences:

• Mike Wright: Favors Kareem Hunt for his remarkable agility and ability to evade tackles, noting Hunt's prowess in both rushing and receiving yards.

  Mike Wright [06:12]: "Kareem Hunt... just shedding tackles, causing guys to miss, making professional football players look foolish."

• Jason Moore: Highlights DeAndre Hopkins, initially viewing him skeptically but growing to admire his exceptional wide-receiver skills.

  Jason Moore [06:27]: "DeAndre Hopkins was such a delight to watch. His hand fighting on every single play..."

• Andy Holloway: Chooses Adam Thielen for his consistent ability to stay open and make impactful plays, citing a memorable game-winning performance against Marshawn Lynch.

  Andy Holloway [08:30]: "Adam Thielen is always open, and he makes those big time."

League News and Game Analysis

The trio delves into notable NFL games, sharing observations and opinions on performances:

• Falcons vs. Eagles: Praises Nick Foles' second-half resurgence despite a shaky start by the Falcons. They criticize Atlanta's play-calling, particularly the reliance on Tevin Coleman, especially with Devonta Freeman dealing with injuries.

  Mike Wright [09:51]: "Nick Foles was absolutely incredible... the Eagles shut the Falcons out in the second half."

• Patriots vs. Titans: Discusses the Patriots' strategy and Nate Solder's potential departure from the Titans, hinting at broader coaching changes within the league.

• Saints vs. Vikings: Reflects on the thrilling and heartbreaking nature of the game, sympathizing with fans from both teams due to the game's unpredictable twists.

  Jason Moore [14:41]: "I've never been more thrilled for a people group at the same time as being heartbroken."

In-Depth Running Back Performance Analysis

The crux of the episode centers on evaluating the consistency and performance of the top RBs from the 2017 season. The hosts meticulously dissect each player's contributions, consistency rankings, and potential future implications for fantasy football.

1. Todd Gurley: The Benchmark RB

• Performance Metrics:
  • Carries: 279
  • Rushing Yards: 1,300+
  • Rushing TDs: 13
  • Receptions: 64
  • Receiving Yards: 788
  • Receiving TDs: 6

Todd Gurley stands out as both the top fantasy RB and the most consistent performer:

Andy Holloway [22:56]: "Good in 93%, busted and won and then great in 53 of the 93%."

Gurley's ability to contribute both on the ground and through the air solidifies his elite status, making him indispensable for fantasy teams.

2. Le'Veon Bell: Consistency Meets Potential Contract Concerns

• Performance Metrics:
  • Carries: 321
  • Rushing Yards: 1,091
  • Rushing TDs: 9
  • Receptions: 85
  • Receiving Yards: 416

Le'Veon Bell mirrors Gurley's performance in many ways but brings up concerns regarding his contract negotiations with the Steelers. The hosts debate whether Bell will play under the franchise tag or potentially retire due to perceived unfair contract terms.

Mike Wright [30:34]: "If you give a guy the ball over 400 times... you have to pay him accordingly."

3. Alvin Kamara: The Emerging Dual Threat

• Performance Metrics:
  • Carries: Not explicitly stated
  • Receptions: 81
  • Receiving Yards: 350
  • Receiving TDs: 5

Alvin Kamara's heightened involvement in the passing game significantly boosts his fantasy value. The hosts discuss Kamara's flexibility and the potential for future growth, making him a strong consideration in drafts.

Andy Holloway [34:37]: "Alvin Kamara and Kareem Hunt, who do you draft first in a half point between."

4. LaShawn McCoy: Steady but Underappreciated

• Performance Metrics:
  • Carries: 287
  • Rushing Yards: 1,138
  • Rushing TDs: 6
  • Receptions: 69
  • Receiving Yards: 448

LaShawn McCoy showcases consistent performance, though there's debate over whether his role in Colt's new offensive setup will sustain his production.

Andy Holloway [45:54]: "Speculation about his age and his carry totals... that's why I think it'll be undervalued."

5. Alvin Kamara and Other Notables

• Other RBs Discussed:
  • Devonta Freeman: Limited by injuries, but generally positive contributions when active.
  • Mark Ingram: Maintains solid performance with significant yardage and touchdowns.
  • Leonard Fournette: Despite missing games due to injury, Fournette demonstrates high efficiency when he plays.

The analysis extends to comparing consistent performers like Melvin Gordon against more volatile players like Kareem Hunt, emphasizing the importance of understanding each player's role and potential for future consistency.

Implications for Fantasy Football Drafting

The hosts translate their in-depth RB analysis into actionable insights for fantasy football enthusiasts:

• Prioritizing Top RBs: Securing a top-tier RB like Todd Gurley or Le'Veon Bell is crucial due to the substantial point differential they provide compared to mid-tier or lower RBs.

• Assessing Consistency vs. Upside: While some RBs offer high upside with occasional explosive games, others provide more consistent, reliable points. The choice depends on team strategy and risk tolerance.

• Considering Team Dynamics: Future performances may be influenced by changes in team structures, such as coaching shifts or quarterback acquisitions, impacting RB opportunities and usage.

Conclusion and Teasers for Future Episodes

Wrapping up, the hosts hint at upcoming discussions delving deeper into RB analyses and exploring additional players like Christian McCaffrey, Lamar Miller, and others. They also encourage listeners to engage with their community on social media and participate in ongoing polls to influence future content.

Jason Moore [60:53]: "Thank you for listening to another episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast. Join our fantasy football community on JoinTheFoot.com and follow us on Twitter @TheFFBallers."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Andy Holloway [01:02]: "Stefan Diggs, Case Keenum. The end of that game, absolutely bananas."

• Mike Wright [06:12]: "Kareem Hunt... just shedding tackles, causing guys to miss, making professional football players look foolish."

• Jason Moore [03:06]: "Regardless of how a guy felt... we are now taking a look basically from top to bottom at all of the running backs..."

• Andy Holloway [08:30]: "Adam Thielen is always open, and he makes those big time."

• Jason Moore [27:49]: "Melvin Gordon did not even have two games under 10 points back to back the entire year."

• Andy Holloway [34:37]: "Alvin Camara and Kareem Hunt, who do you draft first in a half point between."

These quotes encapsulate the hosts' candid and analytical approach to discussing fantasy football nuances, particularly concerning running back performance and consistency.

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of the Fantasy Footballers' episode, providing valuable insights into running back evaluations, strategic fantasy drafting considerations, and reflections on the 2017 NFL season's unpredictability.