Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary Episode: Fantasy Football Podcast 2016 - Sleepers, Fantasy News, Mailbag
Release Date: June 21, 2016

Introduction and Welcome

The episode kicks off with the familiar banter of the expert trio—Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright—reaffirming their enthusiasm to bring listeners insightful fantasy football analysis.

[01:00] Andy Holloway: "Oh, it is so good to be back."
[01:02] Mike Wright: "It's good to be back, America."

Recent Events: FSTA Conference in New York City

Andy shares his recent experience at the Fantasy Sports Trade Association (FSTA) Conference in New York City, highlighting the networking opportunities and discussions with industry professionals.

[04:28] Jason Moore: "It's great to actually put a face to these Twitter avatar people."

The hosts emphasize the value of connecting with like-minded fantasy football enthusiasts and the benefits of attending such conferences for staying updated with industry trends.

Sleepers Segment: Identifying Hidden Gems for the Upcoming Season

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to uncovering sleeper picks—players undervalued in drafts but poised to deliver substantial fantasy points.

1. Kamar Aiken (Baltimore Ravens)

Jason advocates for Kamar Aiken, citing his physical attributes and potential role in the Ravens' offense, especially with Rashad Perryman's uncertain health.

[24:20] Jason Moore: "Kamar Aiken in the 13th round is a guy that I will be able to start in my lineups on a regular basis this coming year."

2. Bilal Powell (New York Jets) vs. Matt Forte

A debate unfolds around Bilal Powell being an 11th-round pick offering solid PPR (Points Per Reception) value compared to Matt Forte, who is seen as a higher-risk, slightly higher-reward option if available in earlier rounds.

[26:01] Andy Holloway: "If you have Matt Forte available to you in the fifth round, Mike Wright, would you take Matt Forte in the fifth round or Bilal Powell in the 11th round?"

3. Ryan Tannehill (Quarterback Sleeper)

Jason introduces Ryan Tannehill as a post-hype sleeper, believing his potential undervaluation due to previous underperformance can translate into a fantasy asset.

[31:13] Jason Moore: "We jump off of people too quick at the quarterback position and we leave them for dead."

4. Tavon Austin (St. Louis Rams)

Andy highlights Tavon Austin's dual-threat capabilities as both a receiver and rusher, making him a valuable late-round pick with significant upside.

[34:08] Andy Holloway: "He set career highs in all of the major categories last year... he's a weapon in an offense."

5. Marvin Jones (Detroit Lions) vs. Golden Tate

Jason discusses Marvin Jones as a cost-effective ninth-round option with potential, especially considering the new offensive schemes under Lions coach Jim Bob Cooter.

[41:21] Jason Moore: "Marvin Jones is a great sleeper candidate... he can get it done."

6. Rashard Matthews (Tennessee Titans)

Mike pitches Rashard Matthews as a reliable WR3 with consistent target volume, positioning him as a valuable pick close to the 15th round.

[46:27] Mike Wright: "Rashard Matthews is the guy for Tennessee."

News and Notes: Navigating Coach Speak and Player Updates

1. Coach Speak and Jared Aberdaris

The hosts dissect the often misleading “coach speak” in media reports, using Jared Aberdaris as an example of mixed signals regarding player trust and roster status.

[06:33] Andy Holloway: "Coaches know how to talk up their players... get clicks on their articles by having a headline that is not really what the article says."

2. Rashad Perryman’s Injury Update

Andy and Jason discuss Rashad Perryman’s injury status, emphasizing the uncertainty around his health and its impact on the Ravens' wide receiver depth chart.

[09:09] Mike Wright: "They don't expect it to heal on its own before camp unless we do something."

3. Seahawks Offense and Russell Wilson

The conversation shifts to the Seattle Seahawks' offensive outlook, with a focus on Russell Wilson's central role and the addition of Tyler Lockett, positioning them as a top fantasy offense.

[13:37] Mike Wright: "The fact that he is aware of it... is a big deal because that was one of the biggest fantasy questions of the offseason."

4. Colts’ Josh Ferguson

Mike introduces Josh Ferguson, an undrafted free agent with potential to earn a significant role in the Colts' backfield alongside Frank Gore.

[15:14] Andy Holloway: "I like Ferguson's signal."

5. Austin Safarian Jenkins Apology

Jason critiques Austin Safarian Jenkins' behavior, ultimately deciding against considering him as a reliable fantasy option.

[16:31] Jason Moore: "ASJ to me seems like, you know, a knucklehead that is not going to be a guy I want to put my trust in."

Mailbag: Listener Questions and Host Insights

1. Wide Receiver Rankings: DeAndre Hopkins vs. Mike Evans

A listener from Delaware questions the ranking of DeAndre Hopkins behind Mike Evans, prompting a detailed discussion on efficiency, team offense, and media portrayal.

[49:16] Mike Wright: "DeAndre Hopkins is a consistent, elite and always healthy performer entering the prime."

Jason defends the ranking by highlighting the Ravens' shift to a more defensively oriented team and Hopkins' performance fluctuations.

[51:15] Jason Moore: "DeAndre Hopkins is still a wide receiver, but his ranking is influenced by team dynamics and defensive focus."

2. Targeting Defenses and Kickers in Drafts

Another listener inquires about the optimal timing for drafting defenses and kickers, leading the hosts to advise against early picks due to high variability in yearly performance.

[55:03] Andy Holloway: "Is it worth going earlier in the draft for a Denver defense or something? No, no."

Mike and Jason suggest focusing on offensive strength when selecting kickers, emphasizing the importance of team performance.

[56:19] Jason Moore: "I look and I say, who's the best offense? That's the main thing."

Conclusion and Promotions

The episode wraps up with the hosts encouraging listeners to engage with their community via jointhefoot.com, subscribe on iTunes, and follow them on social media. They tease upcoming episodes and express their commitment to helping listeners win their fantasy leagues.

[58:13] Jason Moore: "Thank you for listening to another episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast."

Notable Quotes:

• Andy Holloway on Sleeper Value:
  "[25:34] Andy Holloway: 'I think Tavon Austin belongs on people's sleepers list as long as he's being drafted where he's being drafted.'"

• Jason Moore on Ryan Tannehill:
  "[31:13] Jason Moore: 'We jump off of people too quick at the quarterback position and we leave them for dead.'"

• Mike Wright on Josh Ferguson:
  "[15:14] Mike Wright: 'So start paying attention to Josh Ferguson right now.'"

This comprehensive summary encapsulates the key discussions, insights, and strategic advice presented in the episode, providing valuable information for both seasoned fantasy football players and newcomers alike.