Fantasy Footballers Podcast 2016 - Mid Round Madness, Fantasy News, Mailbag
Release Date: May 24, 2016
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

1. Introduction and Show Overview

The episode kicks off with the charismatic banter of Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright, setting the tone for an engaging and insightful discussion on fantasy football. At the outset, the hosts express excitement about the show's content, emphasizing their commitment to providing astute analysis and matchup-winning advice to help listeners dominate their leagues.

Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [01:34]: "Today's show, fantasy-wise, we're going to be bringing the Mid Round Madness."

2. Podcast Achievements and Listener Appreciation

A significant portion of the early conversation revolves around the podcast's recent nominations. The Fantasy Footballers were honored with nominations for both the Best Sports Podcast on podcastawards.com and the People's Choice Award. This achievement is attributed to the unwavering support and engagement of their dedicated listener base, the Foot Clan.

Notable Quotes:
Andy Holloway [03:54]: "We were nominated not only for the Best Sports Podcast on podcastawards.com but we were also nominated for the People's Choice Award along with nine other nominees."
Mike Wright [04:08]: "We are more... let's close this thing out big."

The hosts express immense gratitude towards their listeners, acknowledging that such accolades are a testament to their community's loyalty and feedback.

3. NFL News and Developments

The hosts transition into discussing the latest NFL news, touching upon significant events that have implications for fantasy football.

• Tom Brady's Deflategate Appeal:
  Tom Brady is set to appeal his four-game suspension related to the Deflategate scandal. If successful, he is expected to play the entire 2016 season, which would have substantial fantasy implications.

  Notable Quote:
  Mike Wright [11:34]: "Jon Rapaport tweeted out that if the second Circuit grants Tom Brady this band that he's requesting, it basically guarantees he plays full slate in 2016."

• Marshawn Lynch's Retirement Speculation:
  There is talk about Marshawn Lynch potentially returning to the field despite rumors of his retirement. However, the hosts advise fantasy managers not to roster Lynch until official confirmation is available.

  Notable Quote:
  Jason Moore [12:09]: "I don't think there's any chance he comes back."

• Giants' Tight End Situation:
  Giants beat reporter Jordan Renan suggests that Will Ty should be the favorite to start at the tight end position in 2016, a move that could enhance fantasy production from the Giants' offense.

  Notable Quote:
  Jason Moore [12:49]: "They have used the tight end in the red zone. So if he is the starter, whoever is the starter is definitely a streamable, worthy player."

• Miami Dolphins' Running Back Update:
  Adam Gase, the Dolphins' head coach, indicates that Jay Ajayi will take control of the starting running back role, a promising development for fantasy owners.

  Notable Quote:
  Jason Moore [13:34]: "Jay Ajayi has been coming in early, staying late. He's been working the hardest."

4. Mid Round Madness: Key Mid-Round Battle for Success

The centerpiece of the episode is the "Mid Round Madness" segment, where the hosts delve into mid-round draft picks (fourth to eighth rounds) that offer excellent value based on their average draft positions (ADP). This segment is crucial for fantasy managers aiming to secure hidden gems that can significantly bolster their teams.

a. Highlighting Key Mid-Round Picks

The hosts each select three players they believe are undervalued in the mid-rounds, providing detailed analysis on why these players are worthy of consideration.

b. Selected Players and Rationale

1. T.J. Yeldon (Baltimore Ravens) - 07:02
   Andy Holloway champions T.J. Yeldon as a standout mid-round pick, emphasizing his efficiency and potential role in the Ravens' offense.

   Notable Quote:
   Andy Holloway [19:37]: "T.J. Yeldon is one of my flag guys. He's my banner guy. He's my, my guy."

2. Amir Abdullah (Detroit Lions) - 22:06
   Mike Wright advocates for Amir Abdullah, highlighting the Lions' improvements in the offensive line and his opportunity to shine as the primary running back.

   Notable Quote:
   Mike Wright [22:16]: "Amir Abdullah is the primary running back for that team... the opportunity is great for him."

3. Matt Jones (Washington Redskins) - 26:20
   Jason Moore recommends Matt Jones, citing his high volume of carries and target opportunities as indicators of fantasy relevance.

   Notable Quote:
   Jason Moore [26:17]: "Matt Jones represents to me this year... opportunity is more important than talent."

4. Tyler Lockett (Seattle Seahawks) - 27:22
   Andy Holloway identifies Tyler Lockett as a promising seventh-round pick, noting his growth and the Seahawks' offensive dynamics under Russell Wilson.

   Notable Quote:
   Andy Holloway [27:22]: "Tyler Lockett is a rookie who has been growing and growing on the job."

5. DeSean Jackson (Washington Redskins) - 29:08
   Mike Wright highlights DeSean Jackson's explosive potential despite injuries, making him a valuable eighth-round pick.

   Notable Quote:
   Mike Wright [29:08]: "DeSean Jackson... he's not your wide receiver too. He's your... flex play."

6. Kevin White (Chicago Bears) - 32:06
   Jason Moore underscores Kevin White as an excellent value in the seventh-round, pointing to his health, experience, and the Bears' quarterback situation.

   Notable Quote:
   Jason Moore [32:06]: "Kevin White represents an awesome value at the very back of the seventh."

7. Frank Gore (Indianapolis Colts) - 33:18
   Jason Moore lauds Frank Gore for his consistency and reliability, making him a seventh-round lock to be an RB2 across all leagues.

   Notable Quote:
   Jason Moore [37:23]: "Frank Gore is a lock to be an RB2."

8. Dante Moncrief (Indianapolis Colts) - 41:07
   Mike Wright recommends Dante Moncrief as an eighth-round pick, emphasizing his touchdown potential and role in the Colts' offense.

   Notable Quote:
   Mike Wright [41:07]: "Dante Moncrief... he's going to be a big, big part of that."

5. Listener Mailbag: Questions and Advice

The hosts engage with their audience through a series of mailbag questions, offering personalized advice to listeners navigating various fantasy scenarios.

• Expanding League Strategy (Ryan in Horse Heads, NY) [46:35]:
  Ryan seeks guidance on maintaining championship success in a newly expanded 16-team league. The hosts advise focusing on depth in wide receivers and running backs, while being strategic about drafting quarterbacks and tight ends later in the draft to maximize value.

  Notable Quotes:
  Jason Moore [48:13]: "I completely agree... make sure you're solid there."
  Andy Holloway [48:46]: "Don't you think that it gets to the essence of this episode with the mid-round madness."

• Keeper League Decision (Cody from East Lansing) [49:14]:
  Cody is torn between keeping Gronkowski, Le'Veon Bell, or Alan Robinson in his 10th pick in a serpentine draft. The hosts generally lean towards keeping Le'Veon Bell for his consistent performance, though Jason contemplates the value of Gronkowski as a position separator.

  Notable Quotes:
  Jason Moore [50:13]: "For me, it's Le'Veon Bell."
  Jason Moore [50:36]: "Amir Abdullah... is unbelievable."

• Waiver Wire Enhancements (Chase in Horse Heads) [51:17]:
  Chase inquires about implementing Free Agent Auctions Budget (FAAB) in his league. The hosts explain that FAAB should be available across major fantasy platforms like ESPN, Yahoo, and CBS, suggesting that if it's not visible, it might require league settings adjustments.

  Notable Quote:
  Mike Wright [51:50]: "I believe you... you have to make the declaration of waiver or FAAB before you launch the league."

6. Announcements and Giveaways

Towards the episode's conclusion, the hosts promote their upcoming Ultimate Draft Kit, set to release in a week. This comprehensive resource includes video player profiles, premium rankings, busts, breakouts, sleepers, and more, designed to enhance fantasy drafts.

Additionally, they announce a giveaway in partnership with pristineauction.com, where listeners can win a David Johnson signed 20x30 canvas. To enter, listeners are instructed to post creatively on social media using the hashtag #pristineauction.com.

Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway [17:44]: "If you want to win the autographed David Johnson signed canvas, all you have to do is... include the hashtag #pristineauction.com."

7. Conclusion

The episode wraps up with the hosts summarizing their discussions and reminding listeners of upcoming content, including a special guest appearance by Jamie Eisenberg from CBS Sports. They encourage listeners to engage with their community through jointhefoot.com and follow them on various social media platforms.

Notable Quote:
Jason Moore [55:39]: "Thank you for listening to another edition of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast. Don't forget to visit us on the web at www.thefantasyfootballers.com and follow us on Twitter at theffballers."

Overall Insights:

• Value in Mid-Rounds: The hosts emphasize the importance of identifying and securing value picks in the mid-rounds to build a resilient and competitive fantasy team.

• Adaptability in Strategy: Whether in expanding leagues or keeper formats, strategic drafting and prioritizing depth in key positions are crucial for sustained success.

• Staying Informed: Keeping abreast of NFL news, player developments, and leveraging comprehensive resources like the Ultimate Draft Kit can significantly enhance draft strategies and in-season management.

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for fantasy managers aiming to refine their draft approach, offering a blend of strategic insights, player evaluations, and community engagement to elevate their fantasy football experience.