Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary

Episode: Fantasy Football Podcast 2015 - Preseason Wk 3 Review, Fantasy News, Mailbag
Release Date: August 31, 2015
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

1. Introduction and Opening Banter

The episode kicks off with the hosts welcoming listeners and a brief humorous exchange about Jason Moore’s deepened voice due to illness. They joke about the "Winnie the Pooh" character Eeyore to reflect Jason’s melancholic mood following the release of Fred Jackson from the Buffalo Bills.

Notable Quote:

• Andy Holloway [00:34]: “Happy Monday, everybody. Well, not everybody. Not everybody. This is the Fantasy Footballers Podcast.”

2. Draft Drama: Jason's Fred Jackson Fiasco

Jason shares his unfortunate experience during their major league draft where he aimed to draft Fred Jackson but was outbid by Mike Wright, leading to a subsequent trade that backfired when Fred Jackson was released. This event significantly dampened his spirits and serves as a cautionary tale about draft strategies and trade decisions.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Moore [02:58]: “So I lost Vincent Jackson and Fred Jackson in one fell swoop.”

3. Fantasy News and Updates

The hosts delve into various league updates and NFL news affecting fantasy football:

• Kevin White is now on the reserve/PUP list.
• Trey Mason of the Rams is questionable for Week 1 due to a potential hamstring pull, impacting his availability as a left backfield option.
• Randall Cobb's Injury: Initially concerning, but MRI results show only a sprained AC joint, though his Week 1 participation remains uncertain.
• Duke Johnson's Concussion: The Browns announce Duke Johnson is concussed, raising concerns about his durability.
• Julio Jones Extension: The Falcons have signed Julio Jones to a five-year, $71 million extension.
• Kirk Cousins to Start: The Redskins confirm Kirk Cousins will be their starting quarterback for Week 1, sidelining RG3.

Notable Quote:

• Andy Holloway [09:38]: “It's the right move to make.”

4. Preseason Week 3 Game Reviews

The trio provides in-depth analysis of several Week 3 preseason games, highlighting standout performances, player prospects, and fantasy implications.

a. Patriots vs. Panthers

• Panthers' Offense Struggles: Jason criticizes the Panthers’ offense, spotlighting tight end Greg Olsen as a potential PPR machine.

  Notable Quote:

  • Jason Moore [12:43]: “Greg Olson is going to be a PPR machine. If you're in a PPR league for a tight end and you're in round, I would even go five now, but especially six.”

• Patriots' Offensive Moves: Dion Lewis shines, while James White faces uncertainty, and Traverse Cadet may be cut.

b. Chiefs vs. Titans

• Jeremy Macklin’s Performance: Andy and Mike express increased confidence in Macklin’s role within the Chiefs’ evolving offense.

  Notable Quote:

  • Mike Wright [14:52]: “I just didn't have the faith that they would do it. So Macklin is. I'm, I'm buying more into Macklin.”

• Sam Bradford vs. Alex Smith: Andy shares his draft dilemma between quarterbacks Sam Bradford and Alex Smith, ultimately opting for Smith to balance his roster.

c. Raiders vs. Cardinals

• Latavius Murray’s Role: Noted for not catching a pass yet in preseason, raising questions about his offensive involvement.

d. Seahawks vs. Saints

• Colin Kaepernick’s Struggles: The hosts discuss Kaepernick’s underwhelming preseason performance despite high expectations.

  Notable Quote:

  • Andy Holloway [20:32]: “I have to plainly say that he has not looked efficient.”

• Marshawn Lynch’s Impact: Lynch continues to be a formidable force, effectively compensating for the Seahawks' questionable offensive line.

e. Bills vs. Steelers

• Martavis Bryant’s Suspension: Despite a four-game suspension, Bryant remains a key asset upon his return, with Mike advising listeners to highlight him in drafts.

f. Lions vs. Jaguars

• TJ Yelden’s Opportunities: While Yelden shows promise with a touchdown reception, Andy and Mike remain cautious about his long-term impact due to the Jaguars' developing offensive line.

  Notable Quote:

  • Mike Wright [26:19]: “He didn't look special but the offensive line I think is very, very upgraded from what they had last year.”

5. Draft Strategies and Listener Mailbag

The hosts tackle various listener questions, offering personalized advice on trades, draft picks, and roster management.

a. Keeper Leagues:

• Jordy Nelson as a Keeper: Dave from Morehead successfully drafted Nelson in the ninth round to place him on IR, securing a seventh-round keeper spot next year.

  Notable Quote:

  • Jason Moore [31:25]: “When do I take Jordy and if you can get him in the ninth and so he's now a seventh round keeper for you next year. That's home run, man.”

b. Trade Evaluations:

• Carlos Hyde for Melvin Gordon and Steve Smith Sr.: Brandon in Syracuse seeks opinions on this trade, with Mike and Jason advising to retain Hyde over Gordon due to team needs.

c. Undrafted Players:

• Brandon Coleman vs. Tyler Eifert: Brandon from Syracuse considers adding Coleman to his roster, with hosts recommending prioritizing Eifert over Daniels for tight end potential.

  Notable Quote:

  • Mike Wright [34:50]: “I would actually, I would put Brandon Coleman on my team.”

d. Mistakes in Drafting:

• Andy's Personal Story: Andy recounts drafting Matt Ryan in favor of Julio Jones, leading to regret and a subsequent trade, emphasizing the importance of sticking to a draft plan amid emotional decisions.

  Notable Quote:

  • Andy Holloway [35:43]: “It was a bad decision that grew out of, like, the emotional tie of having that combo.”

6. Key Takeaways and Conclusions

• Stay Objective in Drafts: Avoid emotional decisions and adhere to a pre-defined draft strategy to prevent regrettable picks.
• Monitor Player Health: Injuries and roster changes can significantly impact fantasy value; stay updated with the latest NFL news.
• Flexibility in Keeper Leagues: Smart keeper selections, like drafting Jordy Nelson in lower rounds, can provide long-term advantages.
• Value of Undervalued Players: Identifying and acquiring undervalued players such as Greg Olsen and Brandon Coleman can yield substantial returns in specific league formats like PPR.

Notable Quote:

• Jason Moore [37:32]: “Always. It doesn't matter.”

7. Closing Remarks

The hosts wrap up the episode by encouraging listeners to engage with them through their website, social media, and Patreon for exclusive content. They also tease an upcoming exclusive segment on draft mistakes, reinforcing the episode’s themes of strategic drafting and adaptability.

Notable Quote:

• Mike Wright [28:47]: “Go to JoinTheFoot.com goodbye.”

Conclusion

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast provides valuable insights into preseason developments, draft strategies, and listener interactions, all essential for gaining an edge in fantasy leagues. The hosts’ blend of humor, expertise, and real-life examples offers listeners practical advice and entertaining content to navigate the fantasy football season effectively.