Summary of "Fantasy Footballers - Fantasy Football Podcast" Episode: "Fantasy Football Podcast 2016 - Le'Veon Bell News, Zeke, Fantasy Answers"
Release Date: July 23, 2016
Introduction
The episode kicks off with hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright welcoming listeners to the Saturday edition of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast. They briefly discuss their burgeoning community at JoinTheFoot.com, highlighting giveaways such as autographed Alan Hearns jerseys and an ultimate draft kit. Mike Wright emphasizes the popularity of their community leagues, specifically mentioning the League of Records.
Andy Holloway humorously highlights that many listeners are tuning in on Saturdays despite having other plans, leading into a light-hearted discussion about the hit Netflix series Stranger Things (00:00-01:59).
Main News: Le'Veon Bell’s Suspension
The primary focus of the episode centers on Le'Veon Bell facing a four-game suspension for violating the league's substance abuse policy, specifically for missing a drug test (07:06-10:01).
Jason Moore explains:
"[...] when you've already got the red X there, you miss one, you have failed the drug test." (07:45)
Andy Holloway shares his adjusted fantasy projections, reducing Bell’s value by approximately 25% due to the suspension:
"I took my projections down basically 25%. [...] Normally, he was my number one pick." (08:32)
Mike Wright debates the strategic implications, considering whether to draft Bell despite the suspension:
"Le'Veon Bell is going to miss four games. [...] He is his own tier of running back when it comes to fantasy production." (10:08)
The hosts collectively agree that while Bell’s suspension diminishes his immediate fantasy value, his long-term potential remains high. They discuss strategies for drafting Bell, balancing the risk of his suspension against his elite performance when active.
Main News: Ezekiel Elliott’s Legal Issues
The podcast also delves into reports accusing Ezekiel Elliott of domestic violence, which were primarily covered by outlets like TMZ and Deadspin (14:27-16:56).
Jason Moore provides an update:
"It would appear, at least right now, that Elliott will be recused of all wrongdoing." (15:04)
Andy Holloway raises concerns about the potential impact on Elliott’s reputation and fantasy value:
"If you’re drafting in a league today, there’s the cloud over Elliott. Do you make a different first-round selection?" (16:05)
Mike Wright advises:
"Mr. Avoid risk in the first round. [...] This thing's not going to be able to turn around and become anything more than a bad publicity scene for him." (16:12)
The hosts emphasize caution when considering Elliott for early draft picks, advising fantasy managers to monitor the situation closely.
Other NFL News: Devonte Adams and Philadelphia Running Backs
Devonte Adams is highlighted as a secure third receiver for the Packers, dispelling earlier rumors about his possible being on the roster bubble (17:29-18:02).
The discussion shifts to the Philadelphia Eagles' running back situation, focusing on Darren Sprols potentially fitting into Doug Peterson's offense. Andy Holloway and Jason Moore debate whether Sprols should be categorized similarly to players like Danny Woodhead, ultimately agreeing that Sprols offers more value as a pass-catching back:
"Darren Sprols is a better running back and a better pass catcher than Wendell Smallwood." (20:20)
Mailbag Q&A: Draft Strategies and Player Evaluations
The hosts address various listener questions, providing in-depth analyses on drafting strategies, player evaluations, and keeper league decisions.
Strength of Schedule vs. Contract Year Performance (25:07-31:10)
Listener: Tim Buke asks whether two-quarterback leagues are becoming the new standard and how to balance strength of schedule with drafting players in contract years.
Mike Wright responds:
"I completely had to recant my answer and say one quarterback is the better system." (05:51)
Jason Moore adds:
"I would take him in the second round." (10:08)
The hosts conclude that while two quarterback leagues add strategic depth, one quarterback leagues remain more standard and flexible.
Keeper League Decisions (26:49-41:22)
Listener: Vincent from Dallas seeks advice on keeper decisions between Rob Gronkowski and David Johnson, especially if DeAndre Hopkins is available.
Jason Moore advises:
"I personally would keep David Johnson and then I would draft Hopkins over Gronk." (26:54)
Mike Wright concurs, emphasizing the value of keeping high-producing players and drafting key receivers.
Another question from Mike in New York discusses keeping between Lamar Miller, Alan Robinson, or Jeremy Lankford. Both Andy Holloway and Mike Wright advocate for retaining Alan Robinson due to his reliable performance.
Player Evaluations: Kelvin Benjamin, LaShawn McCoy, and Others (34:55-43:43)
Listener: Dill from New York inquires about why Kelvin Benjamin is ranked below other receivers like Jordan Matthews despite improvements in the Panthers’ offense.
Andy Holloway explains:
"Kelvin Benjamin was the only target in town and he had so many. [...] it doesn't mean Kelvin can't play up to this level." (35:39)
Jason Moore supports the cautious approach:
"I don't see it in Kelvin Benjamin." (36:26)
The discussion covers the volatility of running back performances, referencing Ezekiel Elliott and Cam Newton, and debates the merits of drafting high-upside but potentially inconsistent players.
Fun Segments and Community Engagement
The hosts inject humor and interactive elements, such as making a water bet on Todd Gurley’s reception total (50:10-51:27). They also discuss potential giveaways, including autographed jerseys, and encourage listeners to engage via social media and their website.
Conclusion
The episode wraps up with a reminder about their ongoing giveaways and an invitation to join their fantasy football community at Fantasy Footballers.com. The hosts express gratitude to listeners and sign off with enthusiasm for upcoming fantasy football discussions.
Notable Quotes
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Andy Holloway:
"Le'Veon Bell was my number one pick." (09:48)
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Jason Moore:
"Le’Veon Bell is his own tier of running back when it comes to fantasy production." (10:23)
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Mike Wright:
"I think it's not going to be two quarterback leagues becoming the new standard." (05:51)
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Andy Holloway:
"There is a lot of jokes going around about how many people there are in Pittsburgh with that." (08:30)
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Jason Moore:
"Darren Sprols is a better running back and a better pass catcher than Wendell Smallwood." (20:20)
Key Takeaways
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Le'Veon Bell’s Suspension: His four-game suspension significantly impacts his fantasy value, but his long-term potential remains high. Managers should weigh the immediate drawback against his elite performance when active.
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Ezekiel Elliott’s Legal Issues: Allegations against Elliott necessitate caution in drafting him early. Ongoing investigations should be monitored to assess any long-term impact on his fantasy value.
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Draft Strategies: Balancing strength of schedule with contract year performance involves nuanced decision-making. Hosts suggest considering factors like team offense efficiency and player motivation beyond financial incentives.
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Keeper League Decisions: High-performing players like David Johnson and reliable receivers like DeAndre Hopkins are prioritized for retention over players like Rob Gronkowski. Strategic keeper selections are crucial for sustained fantasy success.
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Player Evaluations: Assessing players such as Kelvin Benjamin and LaShawn McCoy requires analyzing their usage, team dynamics, and consistency. The hosts advocate for cautious optimism, favoring players with stable roles and proven performance metrics.
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Community Engagement: Listeners are encouraged to participate in community events, giveaways, and provide feedback, fostering a collaborative and interactive fantasy football environment.
For more detailed analyses and to participate in community events, visit FantasyFootballers.com and follow them on Twitter @theFFBallers.