Fantasy Footballers Podcast Episode Summary Episode: Fantasy Football Podcast 2015 - Guest: Nick Mangold of the Jets, Week 1 Listener Questions
Release Date: September 9, 2015

Introduction

In the September 9, 2015 episode of the Fantasy Footballers podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve into the intricacies of Fantasy Football with a special guest—Nick Mangold, the esteemed center for the New York Jets. The episode is a blend of insightful discussions, expert advice, and interactive listener questions, all aimed at equipping fantasy managers for a successful season.

Interview with Nick Mangold

Role and Responsibilities of an NFL Center

Nick Mangold begins by elaborating on the multifaceted role of a center in the NFL. Highlighting the center's responsibilities, Mangold emphasizes the importance of communication and coordination within the offensive line.

Nick Mangold [06:27]: "You believe that you're the quarterback of the offensive line. You got to let everybody know what's going on before we snap the ball. There's a lot going on that a center gets the, what I believe, the fun responsibility of doing."

Blocking Schemes: Zone vs. Power

The conversation shifts to offensive blocking schemes, with Mangold providing clarity on the differences between zone and power blocking. He underscores that the effectiveness of either scheme hinges on execution rather than inherent superiority.

Nick Mangold [07:54]: "It doesn't really matter. It all depends on how things get blocked. If you don't execute properly, it's not going to work."

The hosts, particularly Mike Wright, reflect on how fantasy managers often fixate on specific blocking schemes, suggesting a more holistic approach to evaluating running back potential.

Jets’ Offensive Evolution

Mangold discusses the evolution of the Jets' offense under new head coach Chan Gailey, mentioning the integration of diverse roles among players and the anticipation of performance in real game scenarios.

Nick Mangold [08:29]: "We've been spreading it out a little bit... I'm looking forward to these real games to see what we can get accomplished."

Comparisons with Other Centers

When posed about the best center in the league aside from himself, Mangold names Ryan Kalil of the Carolina Panthers, praising both his performance and character.

Nick Mangold [10:04]: "Ryan Kalil down in Carolina. I think he does a fantastic job. And he's a good guy, too."

Beard Banter and Personal Insights

A lighter moment in the interview revolves around the iconic beards of NFL players. Mangold engages humorously with the hosts about beard comparisons, particularly referencing Ryan Fitzpatrick's facial hair.

Nick Mangold [10:48]: "It's not so much who has a better beard, it's just the appreciation of great beards."

Experience on HBO's Hard Knocks

Mangold shares his experience participating in HBO's Hard Knocks, describing it as a balance between showcasing training camp actions and having moments of privacy.

Nick Mangold [12:23]: "There was a lot more going on... but you knew where you could get away to."

Jets' Running Backs Discussion

The discussion transitions to the performance and potential of the Jets' running backs, including Chris Ivory, Bilal Powell, and Zach Stacy. Mangold expresses confidence in Ivory's capabilities, positioning him as a valuable asset for fantasy managers.

Nick Mangold [09:31]: "If I had a fantasy team, I'd have him on it. He's running as fast as I've seen him... I'm pretty excited to watch him work this year."

Fighting Hunger Initiative

Beyond on-field discussions, Nick Mangold introduces a charitable initiative in partnership with Prilosec OTC and the Taste of the NFL. The campaign aims to donate one million meals to food banks across the country. Listeners are encouraged to support the cause by visiting youcanbeatzero.com, where they can donate and enter sweepstakes for a chance to win a trip to the Super Bowl.

Nick Mangold [05:32]: "We've teamed up with the Taste of the NFL to provide a million meals to food banks around the country... it's a win-win situation."

Mailbag: Week 1 Listener Questions

Following the interview, the hosts transition to the highly anticipated mailbag segment, addressing various Week 1 fantasy football questions submitted by listeners. Here's a breakdown of key questions and expert responses:

1. Flex Spot Decisions

• Question: In a half-point PPR league, should Ryan Bernard or Kendall Wright be started in the flex spot?
• Hosts' Consensus: Both Andy and Mike lean towards starting Kendall Wright due to his role with quarterback Marcus Mariota and the favorable matchup against Tampa Bay's defense.

Mike Wright [17:36]: "Kendall is going to be the main target."

2. Sliding into Second Wide Receiver Spot

• Question: With options like Alan Robinson, John Brown, Terrence Williams, or Jarvis Landry, who should be started in the flex for Week 1?
• Hosts' Consensus: The unanimous decision is Jarvis Landry, given his favorable matchup against Washington and expected high target volume.

Andy Holloway [20:00]: "Jarvis Landry would be my answer. He has a great matchup this week."

3. Running Back Battles in Multiple Leagues

• Question: Whether to start Jonathan Stewart, T.J. Yeldon, or Amir Abdullah across different leagues.
• Hosts' Consensus: Jonathan Stewart is favored for his anticipated workload.

Mike Wright [22:25]: "You go with Jonathan Stewart."

4. Flex Position Choices Amidst Injuries

• Question: Options include Chris Ivory, Nelson Aguilar, Eddie Royal, or Duke Johnson, with uncertainty around Duke Johnson's participation.
• Hosts' Consensus: Chris Ivory is recommended as the go-to option unless Alshon Jeffery is excluded, in which case Eddie Royal would be the preferred choice.

Andy Holloway [23:21]: "If Alshon's gone, start Royal. Otherwise, start Ivory."

5. Wide Receiver Flex Spot Dilemma

• Question: With AJ Green, Ty Hilton, Eric Decker, and Golden Tate, who should be started in the flex spot?
• Hosts' Consensus: Eric Decker is the favored option due to his increased target potential against the Cleveland Browns.

Mike Wright [33:02]: "If you want to switch it out, I would go with Decker."

6. Dropping Players to Pick Up Fred Jackson

• Question: Whether to drop Joseph Randle or Trey Mason to acquire Fred Jackson, considering ownership of Marshawn Lynch.
• Hosts' Consensus: Trey Mason can be dropped in favor of Fred Jackson, especially with Lynch on the roster.

Mike Wright [35:59]: "I would not drop Trey Mason. I think Trey Mason will have a pretty decent value."

7. Wide Receiver Two Spot Decision

• Question: With AJ Green, Ty Hilton, Eric Decker, and Golden Tate, who should be started in the flex spot?
• Hosts' Consensus: Decker is favored over Hilton due to target potential.

Andy Holloway [35:34]: "Jordan Cameron is definitely the answer this week."

8. Running Back Flex Spot Choice

• Question: Jeremy Hill vs. Mark Ingram with the option to start Andre Ellington or Ivory.
• Hosts' Consensus: Chris Ivory is generally preferred for Week 1, with Jeremy Hill also being a strong contender.

Mike Wright [40:55]: "Jason, number two."

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with the hosts reiterating the importance of staying updated with Week 1 rankings and upcoming matchups. They encourage listeners to engage with the podcast's online platforms for continuous updates and detailed analyses, ensuring fantasy managers are well-equipped to navigate the early weeks of the NFL season.

Notable Quotes:

• Nick Mangold [06:27]: "There's a lot going on that a center gets the, what I believe, the fun responsibility of doing."
• Mike Wright [07:54]: "You can have a good running game."
• Nick Mangold [10:04]: "Ryan Kalil... he does a fantastic job."
• Nick Mangold [05:32]: "It's a win-win situation."

For more insights and weekly updates, visit thefantasyfootballers.com and follow them on Twitter @the_ffballers.