Fantasy Footballers Podcast - Episode: Week 12 Waivers, Streams of the Week, Mailbag

Release Date: November 22, 2016

Introduction

In this dynamic Week 12 episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve deep into the intricacies of the waiver wire, streaming options, and listener questions. Amidst a flurry of injuries affecting key players, the trio provides strategic insights to help fantasy managers navigate the challenging landscape of the mid-season slump.

Waiver Wire Analysis

Wide Receiver Pickups

Rashad Mathews' Resurgence

Rashad Mathews has been a standout player for fantasy managers this week, yet remains underutilized in only 60% of leagues. Andy Holloway emphasizes his importance:

"There has been an awakening of sorts, a changing of the guard in Tennessee at the wide receiver position. It is Rashad Mathews' show." [19:44]

Mike Wright concurs, highlighting Mathews' consistent performance:

"He's evolving into that Allen Robinson guy where you just can see it. He's a top five wide receiver in fantasy football across the league." [20:16]

Cincinnati's A.J. Green Injury Impact

With A.J. Green sidelined due to a small tear, the hosts discuss potential replacements. Tyler Boyd and Brandon LaFell are considered, with a focus on their matchups and scoring systems.

• Tyler Boyd: Favored in half-point and full-point leagues.
• Brandon LaFell: Preferred in standard leagues for his ability to stretch the field.

Devonte Parker and Taylor Gabriel

Devonte Parker and Taylor Gabriel emerge as viable options due to recent performances and favorable matchups:

"Taylor Gabriel has had back-to-back three straight weeks with 16+ fantasy points. I would rather play Taylor Gabriel over Kenny Stills or Devonte Parker this week." [28:43]

Running Back Pickups

James Starks as a Top Contender

James Starks is lauded for his role in the Green Bay Packers' offense, especially in the screen game:

"James Starks is the predominant number one running back, so he's the guy that I would target the most." [31:27]

Alternative Options: Kenneth Dixon and Chris Ivory

• Kenneth Dixon: Despite low ownership at 23%, Dixon's consistent involvement makes him a solid pickup.
• Chris Ivory: With 6 receptions for 75 yards last week, Ivory is recommended if volume returns.

"Chris Ivory is a good play... he still going to put up running back two numbers." [33:29]

Mike Wright adds:

"I think my favorite pickup right now is Timmy Hightower... he can produce in that offense." [30:42]

Tight End Pickups

CJ Fedorowicz's Upside

CJ Fedorowicz is identified as a valuable tight end option with only 34% ownership:

"He's a good play in general. If you're looking like your team is stacked but there's no tight ends, he's a great pickup." [36:37]

Other Notable TEs: Austin Hooper and Zach Ertz

• Austin Hooper: Backed by the Falcons' high-powered offense.
• Zach Ertz: Despite only being 56% owned, his potential resurgence makes him a target.

"Zach Ertz had a monster touchdown called back... I love Zach Ertz this week." [38:02]

Streaming Quarterbacks

With Andrew Luck on concussion protocol, the hosts explore alternative quarterback options:

Colin Kaepernick's Value

Jason Moore advocates for Colin Kaepernick due to his dual-threat ability:

"He just puts up fantasy production regardless of whether the team wins." [41:12]

Tyrod Taylor and Ryan Tannehill

• Tyrod Taylor: Recommended for his matchup against Jacksonville, providing consistent offensive opportunities.

• Ryan Tannehill: Favored by Mike Wright for his recent productivity and favorable matchup against the San Francisco 49ers.

"Ryan Tannehill in our scoring format back to back weeks over 20. That's very doable." [44:30]

Mailbag Highlights

Tim in Denver: Lamar Miller vs. Jay Ajayi

In a full-point per reception league, the dilemma between Lamar Miller and Jay Ajayi is addressed. The consensus tilts towards Jay Ajayi for his proven reliability:

"I'm gonna take Lamar Miller." – Jason Moore
"I'm gonna go with Jay." – Andy Holloway
"I'm gonna take a Jay." – Mike Wright [47:29-47:50]

Paul in Portland: Robert Kelly vs. Jeremy Hill

Paul seeks advice on whether to keep Robert Kelly or trade for Jeremy Hill. Both Mike Wright and Jason Moore support keeping Robert Kelly due to the superior Washington offense.

"I think he's going to be legit rest of season." – Jason Moore
"I'm going to take the better offense. Washington is a better offense." – Mike Wright [48:14-49:05]

Chad in Mooresville: Thanksgiving Day QB Decision

Chad grapples with choosing between Ben Roethlisberger and Dak Prescott for Thanksgiving Day. Andy Holloway leans towards Roethlisberger due to his strong performance against the Colts, while Mike Wright prefers Prescott.

Andy: "This is what actually wins you the show." [50:08-51:13]
Jason: "Big Ben has been unbelievably good against the Colts." [51:29]

Will in Santa Rosa Beach: Trade for Tyler Boyd

Will faces the decision to trade Josh McCown and Zach Miller for Tyler Boyd. Both Mike Wright and Andy Holloway agree that acquiring Tyler Boyd is a strategic move given his potential upside.

"I'm doing it." – Mike Wright
"Absolutely. I'll do it." – Andy Holloway [52:31-53:17]

Concluding Insights

As Week 12 unfolds, the Fantasy Footballers provide a comprehensive guide to optimizing team rosters amidst injury setbacks. From leveraging underutilized wide receivers like Rashad Mathews to enhancing tight end depth with CJ Fedorowicz, the episode equips listeners with actionable strategies. The discussion on streaming quarterbacks highlights the importance of adaptability, while the mailbag segment offers personalized advice to fans grappling with tough lineup decisions.

With their trademark blend of humor and expertise, Andy, Jason, and Mike ensure that fantasy managers are well-prepared to make informed decisions, aiming to secure victory in their respective leagues.

Notable Quotes

• Andy Holloway on Rashad Mathews:

  "It is Rashad Mathews' show." [19:44]

• Jason Moore on James Starks:

  "James Starks is the predominant number one running back, so he's the guy that I would target the most." [31:27]

• Mike Wright on Ryan Tannehill:

  "Ryan Tannehill in our scoring format back to back weeks over 20. That's very doable." [44:30]

• Andy Holloway on CJ Fedorowicz:

  "He does have a great playoff schedule as well." [36:37]

Final Thoughts

This Week 12 episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast is a treasure trove of strategic advice, catering to both seasoned veterans and newcomers in the fantasy football arena. By addressing real-time challenges and offering tailored solutions, the hosts reinforce their commitment to helping listeners "win your league—in style."

Stay Connected: For more exclusive content and to engage with the Fantasy Footballers community, visit jointhefoot.com and follow them on Twitter @theffballers.