Fantasy Footballers Podcast - 300th Episode Summary

Release Date: November 3, 2016

Introduction to the 300th Episode

In their landmark 300th episode, the Fantasy Footballers—Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright—celebrate three decades of providing expert fantasy football insights. The hosts kick off the celebration with enthusiastic banter, reflecting on the show's journey and its impact on the fantasy football community.

Celebrating the Milestone: Community and Inside Jokes

The hosts share a series of inside jokes and memorable moments that have defined the podcast over the years. Mike Wright proudly declares, “[01:02] Mike Wright: We did it,” marking the significant achievement. The trio engages in playful exchanges, reinforcing the tight-knit relationship they've built with their listeners. Andy Holloway humorously recounts his excitement over the Cubs winning the World Series, despite his primary passion for football: “[02:07] Andy Holloway: That game last night was great... It was just incredible.”

Special Segment: Highlights Montage

To honor the 300th episode, the Fantasy Footballers present a curated montage of standout moments from the past two years. This segment features highlights submitted by listeners, showcasing the show's best analyses and most entertaining discussions. Andy Holloway emphasizes the importance of community contributions: “[06:53] Andy Holloway: If we're not, let us know.”

Giveaway Announcement: Celebrating with Prizes

In celebration of reaching 300 episodes, the hosts announce a special giveaway. They plan to distribute $300 in gift cards from shopballers.com through an interactive periscope session. Mike Wright announces, “[04:01] Mike Wright: ...giveaway $300 to shopballers.com that is six $50 gift cards.” Additionally, listeners are encouraged to engage on Twitter for a chance to receive extra surprises, adding excitement to the milestone celebration.

Week 9 Preview: News and Notes from Around the League

Transitioning into the core content, the Fantasy Footballers provide crucial updates and analyses impacting Week 9 matchups:

• Ben Roethlisberger’s Return: Ben Roethlisberger is expected to start against the Baltimore Ravens after an anticipated 30-40 week absence owing to a significant injury. Mike Wright notes, “[18:26] Mike Wright: It is a pretty substantial one, but he still plays.”

• Alex Smith’s Injury: Quarterback Alex Smith will miss the upcoming game, with Nick Foles stepping in. Andy Holloway sarcastically comments, “[18:27] Andy Holloway: Yeah, there's no concussion here.”

• Other Player Updates: The hosts discuss various player injuries and statuses, including Spencer Ware, James Starks, Ty Hilton, Randall Cobb, and Travis Benjamin, providing listeners with essential information for their fantasy lineups.

Detailed Matchup Analyses

The hosts delve into detailed analyses of key Week 9 matchups, offering strategic advice for fantasy football managers:

1. Steelers vs. Ravens:

   • Big Ben’s Impact: The return of Ben Roethlisberger is a focal point. Mike Wright assesses, “[30:28] Mike Wright: West is still the main guy,” discussing Terence West’s role despite Big Ben’s comeback.
   • Fantasy Implications: Andy Holloway agrees, “[30:38] Andy Holloway: Terence west is still the lead dog there,” highlighting West’s continued relevance in fantasy lineups.

2. Cowboys vs. Browns:

   • Cody Kessler’s Potential Start: With Cody Kessler possibly starting for the Browns, the hosts evaluate running back options. Andy Holloway advises caution: “[32:05] Unknown: The Cowboys, the Browns are seven-point underdogs.”

3. Jets vs. Dolphins:

   • Jay Ajayi’s Performance: Jay Ajayi’s resurgence is discussed in the context of Miami’s strong run defense. Andy Holloway reflects, “[39:43] I just think he’s going to be much harder pressed to cut up the jets than he has now.”

4. Lions vs. Vikings:

   • Marvin Jones vs. Theo Riddick: The interaction between Marvin Jones and a top-tier Vikings pass defense is analyzed. Mike Wright states, “[43:21] Mike Wright: ...the Vikings defense is tremendous.”

5. Eagles vs. Giants:

   • Running Back Strategies: Andy Holloway discusses running back selections, emphasizing Rashad Jennings for the Giants: “[48:52] Andy Holloway: Carlos Hyde is going to be fine.”

Starts of the Week: Host Selections

Each host presents their recommended players for Week 9 across various positions, providing listeners with actionable insights:

• Quarterbacks:

  • Mike Wright: Jameis Winston – Anticipates a big game against Atlanta’s defense. “[50:10] Mike Wright: I'm going famous. Jameis Winston is performing well.”
  • Jason Moore: Philip Rivers – Confident in Rivers’ matchup against Tennessee’s subpar defense. “[53:18] Mike Wright: He is the guy.”
  • Andy Holloway: Dak Prescott – Trusts Prescott’s performance against Cleveland’s defense. “[52:34] Unknown: The Cleveland Browns.”

• Running Backs:

  • Mike Wright: Darren Sproles – Highlights consistency despite limited carries. “[54:33] Andy Holloway: If I had to choose between those two guys, I would also choose Darren Sproles.”
  • Andy Holloway: Carlos Hyde – Emphasizes Hyde’s role in the Saints’ offense against a weakened run defense. “[55:06] Andy Holloway: He should have a great game.”
  • Jason Moore: Mark Ingram – Picks Ingram for his favorable matchup against the 49ers’ weak run defense. “[56:34] Unknown: ...he is going to score in this contest.”

• Wide Receivers:

  • Mike Wright: Dante Moncrief – Expects Moncrief to capitalize on the Saints’ passing game. “[58:52] Mike Wright: I'm going with Dante Moncrief.”
  • Jason Moore: Stefon Diggs – Despite skepticism, believes in Diggs’ potential against Detroit. “[59:33] Unknown: I'm going on Diggs.”
  • Andy Holloway: Davante Adams – Anticipates a strong performance against Indianapolis’ defense. “[57:57] Andy Holloway: I believe he has really good game.”

• Tight Ends:

  • Mike Wright: Travis Kelsey – Leverages Detroit’s poor defense against tight ends. “[63:05] Mike Wright: Kyle Rudolph is a touchdown machine with Sam Bradford.”
  • Andy Holloway: Kobe Fleener – Bets on Fleener’s efficiency and big-play potential. “[61:09] Andy Holloway: He should have a great game.”
  • Jason Moore: Kyle Rudolph – Capitalizes on Detroit’s vulnerability against tight ends. “[63:05] Mike Wright: Kyle Rudolph is a touchdown machine.”

Conclusion and Giveaway Details

As the episode wraps up, the Fantasy Footballers reiterate their appreciation for the listeners' support over the past 300 episodes. They remind fans of the ongoing giveaways and encourage continued engagement through social media platforms. Mike Wright teases additional surprises, “[65:21] Unknown: We’re gonna celebrate our 300th show with some giveaways answering your fantasy questions.”

The hosts close with reaffirming their commitment to providing top-tier fantasy football advice, ensuring listeners remain equipped to dominate their leagues.

Notable Quotes:

• Mike Wright on Big Ben’s Return:

  “[18:26] Mike Wright: It is a pretty substantial one, but he still plays.”

• Andy Holloway on Dak Prescott:

  “[52:34] Unknown: The Cleveland Browns. Their defense is a delight for fantasy. And so I have no hesitation starting Dak Prescott.”

• Jason Moore on Stefon Diggs:

  “[59:33] Unknown: I'm going on Diggs.”

• Mike Wright on Travis Kelsey:

  “[63:05] Mike Wright: Kyle Rudolph is a touchdown machine with Sam Bradford.”

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and strategic advice provided in the Fantasy Footballers' 300th episode. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the podcast, this overview offers valuable takeaways to enhance your fantasy football strategy for Week 9.