Fantasy Football Podcast 2015 - Sleepers, Breakouts, News, Mailbag
Release Date: April 14, 2015
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
Introduction and League Updates
The episode kicks off with the hosts discussing updates from their respective fantasy leagues. Andy Holloway shares that he and Jason Moore are actively negotiating trades and setting up their draft boards in their keeper league, which allows three keepers per team with a trade embargo until keepers are locked in.
Notable Quote:
Jason Moore [00:31]: “We are the fantasy footballers back again. How'd you do last week? How'd your team do?”
NFL Draft Preview and News
With the NFL Draft approaching in approximately two and a half weeks, the hosts delve into various player news and potential impacts on fantasy leagues.
Michael Crabtree to Oakland Raiders
The team discusses Michael Crabtree’s signing with the Oakland Raiders on a one-year deal. Mike Wright humorously critiques the Raiders' ability to utilize Crabtree effectively, highlighting concerns about the team's track record in producing fantasy-relevant wide receivers.
Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [05:08]: “Michael Crabtree signs with none other than the Oakland Raiders. A one-year deal… Who is the biggest overpaid player? It's whoever goes next to the Raiders.”
Melvin Gordon’s Potential Move to Dallas Cowboys
Jason Moore and Mike Wright explore the possibility of Melvin Gordon joining the Dallas Cowboys, analyzing how his skill set might fit into the Cowboys' offensive system. They weigh the benefits against the potential challenges, including competition with DeMarco Murray and the offensive line's play style.
Notable Quote:
Jason Moore [07:13]: “I'm worried that if he went to Dallas in that system that DeMarco Murray thrived in, he'd have some of that Reggie Bush disease, that C.J. Spiller disease where they just think they can get outside.”
Mark Ingram’s Increased Touches
Andy Holloway references a report by Mike Triplett predicting Mark Ingram will receive 240 touches this season, which Jason Moore finds encouraging for fantasy owners looking to maximize Ingram’s value.
Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [08:59]: “Mike Triplett, Saints reporter… He is predicting 240 touches for Mark Ingram, which sounds pretty good to me.”
Philip Rivers’ Future with the Chargers
The conversation shifts to Philip Rivers and his reluctance to play in Los Angeles if the Chargers relocate from San Diego. The hosts speculate on Rivers possibly moving to the Tennessee Titans after this season, expressing interest in what Rivers could accomplish in a new environment.
Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [09:53]: “I see him playing out this year in San Diego and then going and signing in Tennessee.”
Partnership with Audible
The Fantasy Footballers announce a new partnership with Audible, encouraging listeners to visit audibledeal.com to receive a free audiobook as a way to support the podcast.
Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [11:12]: “They have a product called Audible, which is fantastic… you can go to audibledeal.com and you can get a free book.”
Sleepers for Fantasy Football 2015
The hosts outline five sleeper picks for the upcoming fantasy season, defining sleepers as players who are drafted in the later rounds but have the potential to outperform their draft position.
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Devonte Adams (WR, Green Bay Packers)
- Highlighted for his explosive talent and the opportunity to become a top-tier receiver if given more playing time.
- Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [15:06]: “He is a freak athlete and on the best offense. I love it.”
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Theo Riddick (RB, Detroit Lions)
- Positioned as the main backup with increased opportunities due to Reggie Bush’s potential absence.
- Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [16:53]: “He's the main guy now that Reggie Bush has gone.”
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Carson Palmer (QB, Arizona Cardinals)
- Coming off an ACL injury, Palmer is seen as a late-round quarterback with the potential to deliver high yardage and touchdowns.
- Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [19:28]: “A quarterback who you're going to be able to draft the 12th round.”
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Danny Woodhead (RB, New England Patriots)
- Despite injury setbacks, Woodhead’s versatility in the passing game makes him a valuable late-round pick.
- Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [23:37]: “They like Woodhead the player. So maybe people are sleeping on Danny Woodhead.”
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Josh Huff (WR, Philadelphia Eagles)
- Recognized for his high upside and the trust he has garnered from the coaching staff, making him a valuable sleeper in PPR leagues.
- Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [25:26]: “He's a very talented player who didn't get on the field last year.”
Breakout Candidates
The podcast identifies five players poised to take a significant leap in their performance, moving from average to elite fantasy producers.
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Travis Kelce (TE, Kansas City Chiefs)
- Emphasized for his consistent high-level performance and increased role following Anthony Fasano's departure.
- Notable Quote:
Jason Moore [28:44]: “He's the definition of a breakout at the tight end position.”
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Martavis Bryant (WR, Pittsburgh Steelers)
- Highlighted for his physical attributes and role as a deep threat, accompanied by Vince “Big Ben” Bennett's strong arm.
- Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [31:03]: “Martavis Bryant… he's big and he has separation and speed.”
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Alan Robinson (WR, Jacksonville Jaguars)
- Noted for his high target share and rapport with quarterback Blake Bortles, making him a consistent fantasy option.
- Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [34:44]: “Allen Robinson had five or more catches in six of his 10 games.”
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Jeremy Hill (RB, Cincinnati Bengals)
- Praised for his ability to gain significant yards after contact and his role in a run-heavy offense.
- Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [37:35]: “Jeremy Hill is the guy moving forward… he can grind it out.”
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Jarvis Landry (WR, Cleveland Browns)
- Recognized for his dependable hands and strong connection with quarterback Tyrod Taylor, positioning him for over 100 receptions.
- Notable Quote:
Mike Wright [40:05]: “Jarvis is a perfect steady part of your team… his floor is so high.”
Mailbag Questions
The hosts address listener questions regarding keeper choices and drafting strategies.
Keeper Decision in a 12-Team League
Question from Tony (Dolphins Fan):
Choosing between keepers Jeremy Hill (8th round) and Latavius Murray (16th round) among other options.
Hosts' Advice:
Prioritize Jeremy Hill over Latavius Murray due to Hill's proven performance and greater immediate impact.
Notable Quote:
Jason Moore [44:15]: “Here's what I can tell you, Tony. You definitely want to take Jeremy Hill with that eighth round swap.”
Drafting Strategy for Dallas Cowboys’ Running Backs
Question from Austin L:
If Dallas starts the year with Darren McFadden, how high should you reach for Joseph Randall?
Hosts' Advice:
Do not reach high for Joseph Randall; instead, consider him as a handcuff option with limited upside.
Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [47:25]: “If you want upside you go Latavius Murray if you want.”
Outcomes for Bishop Sankey
Question from an Anonymous Listener:
Range of outcomes for Bishop Sankey for the upcoming season.
Hosts' Advice:
Skeptical about Sankey’s potential due to his underwhelming rookie performance and questionable offensive line decisions. Suggest treating him as a low-risk, high-reward pick if opting to keep him.
Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [49:41]: “I believe I said his floor was a Chuck E. Cheese ticket attendant.”
Investment in High-Profile RB vs. WR in Half-PPR Auction Leagues
Question from Coach P. Jeremy P.:
Whether to invest in a high-profile wide receiver or running back.
Hosts' Advice:
Favor investing in a high-end running back due to positional scarcity and the premium on RB performance in fantasy.
Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [51:23]: “I'm going to take the high end running back. I'm going to lock up that position.”
Review of the Week
The podcast features a glowing review from a listener named Fantasy Die Hard 2, commending the Fantasy Footballers for being both entertaining and informative, making fantasy football more enjoyable without compromising on valuable insights.
Notable Quote:
Listener [53:26]: “The ballers are well informed and a joy to listen to.”
Conclusion and Call to Action
The hosts wrap up by encouraging listeners to submit more questions via email or Twitter, leave reviews, and take advantage of their Audible partnership for additional support. They tease upcoming shows, including mock drafts, and express excitement about the upcoming NFL Draft.
Notable Quote:
Jason Moore [54:49]: “We're going to go over in the show. Make sure you listen to us on Thursday and subscribe to us on iTunes.”
This episode provides a comprehensive overview of key fantasy football strategies, player developments, and actionable advice for both novice and seasoned fantasy managers. The insights on sleepers and breakouts, coupled with the practical mailbag responses, make it a valuable resource for preparing for the upcoming fantasy season.