Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary
Episode: Week 3 Matchups, Daily Dose, #FootClan Friday
Release Date: September 23, 2016
Introduction
In the Week 3 episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve into an in-depth analysis of the latest fantasy football developments. Skipping the usual advertisements and promotions, the trio focuses on matchup previews, player performances, injury updates, and provides valuable insights to help listeners optimize their fantasy rosters for the week ahead.
News and Updates
LeGarrett Blunt's Performance and Ranking
The discussion kicks off with accolades for Mike Wright’s endorsement of LeGarrett Blunt. Jason Moore commends Mike, stating, "Not only did he nail LeGarrett Blunt so far, but Mike, you are currently the number nine ranked expert in the world" ([02:32]).
Mike elaborates on Blunt’s durability and workload:
"There's a certain category of player where there is no end. ... Lugarrett Blunt eventually broke through, got a long run, had the goal line carry." ([03:03])
Lamar Miller's Struggles and Volume Concerns
The hosts analyze Lamar Miller’s performance over the past three games, highlighting his limited carries and lack of big plays:
"He's just taking what's in front of him and maybe he's been told to do that. But I'm not impressed with the big play capabilities of Lamar Miller." ([04:17])
Andy agrees, noting, "I do expect more out of Miller going forward, but he's an every week start because he's going to touch the ball 20 to 25 times" ([05:37]).
Injury Updates and Team News
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Alshon Jeffrey: Jason warns fantasy owners to monitor Alshon Jeffrey’s status closely, especially for Sunday or Monday night games:
"If you have Alshon Jeffrey, ... make sure he's set to go in your flex." ([12:14]) -
Antonio Gates: Austin Archer Jenkins’ DUI charge raises concerns about his availability, prompting discussions about alternative tight ends:
"Cameron Brait might be somebody you need to just ... streaming candidate at the tight end position." ([11:05]) -
Sammy Watkins: Mike updates on Sammy Watkins' uncertain participation:
"Sammy Watkins was not present for the start of practice on Friday." ([10:36])
The hosts emphasize the importance of staying updated with player statuses to make informed lineup decisions.
Matchup Previews and Fantasy Advice
Browns vs. Dolphins
Mike advocates for starting Ryan Tannehill over most quarterbacks due to the Dolphins’ weak run defense:
"I like what I saw. Three wide receiver sets. ... I'm taking Ryan Tannehill and I'm playing him over most guys." ([14:13])
Jason concurs, adding, "Ryan Tannehill, he's my start of the week" ([14:49]).
Redskins vs. Giants
Eli Manning receives praise for his improved accuracy and the Giants’ strong defense:
"His pass completion is up near 80% which is just ridiculous." ([17:00])
Jason advises leveraging the Giants' defense against Kirk Cousins, who has been turning the ball over:
"Matt Jones, their whole defenses look good. ... They throw the ball 75% of the time." ([18:40])
Rams vs. Buccaneers
Concerns about Todd Gurley’s performance against the Buccaneers’ robust run defense are discussed:
"If Gurley cannot show me something this week, I'm going to be freaked out." ([31:00])
The hosts express hesitation in buying Gurley, citing the difficult matchup and his recent performance.
Chargers vs. Colts
Melvin Gordon emerges as a key player against the Colts, who possess a soft defense:
"Melvin Gordon ... he's a dream matchup." ([36:20])
Mike emphasizes his potential for a top-five performance:
"If he gets involved in the passing game, he should have a lights out, top five type of production." ([37:06])
Steelers vs. Eagles
Big Ben (Ben Roethlisberger) is highlighted for his strong home performance, though caution is advised against overreliance:
"Big Ben has been on fire this year. ... The Philadelphia Eagles defense is so underrated right now." ([41:37])
Andy suggests considering the Eagles’ improving defense when starting Big Ben, especially on the road:
"Big Ben has averaged almost 30 fantasy points per game at home and 18 fantasy points per game on the road." ([42:34])
Bears vs. Cowboys
With Jay Cutler out, the focus shifts to Brian Hoyer and potential receiver shifts:
"Kevin White elevates to become the number one. ... Jeremy Langford might be a tough start." ([44:05])
Jason advises stashing Jeremy Langford in favor of Jordan Howard due to inefficiencies:
"I am looking to stash Howard. I'm avoiding pretty much every bear in this game whose name isn't Alshon Jeffrey if he plays." ([45:25])
Falcons vs. Saints
The hosts discuss Winchester Lamar Jackson, emphasizing Jacob Tamme’s target volume as a reliable option:
"Jacob Tamme, I mean he’s just getting targets. 16 targets. 120 plus yards has a touchdown." ([49:56])
Andy humorously theorizes that Kobe Fleener’s new haircut might boost his performance, showcasing the hosts' playful banter:
"We could have a reverse Sampson situation here for Kobe Fleener." ([47:48])
#FootClan Friday
The segment celebrates community engagement with the #FootClan Friday giveaway.
Mike announces the winner: "Mark Folds" ([09:14]). Congratulations are extended, and listeners are encouraged to participate weekly for a chance to win official FootClan merchandise from JoinTheFoot.com.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) Segment
Guest: Chris Meaney from Fantasy Sports Network
Chris Meaney joins the hosts to provide expert DFS advice for FanDuel contestants.
Quarterback Picks
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Cam Newton and Drew Brees:
Chris recommends "paying up" for high-performing quarterbacks like Cam Newton and Drew Brees due to their favorable matchups and potential high scores:
"I have no problem with people wanting to pay up for Cam and Drew Brees." ([51:19]) -
Matt Ryan:
Praised for his dream matchup against the Saints, Ryan is a recommended play despite being slightly cheaper:
"He's the number one quarterback in fantasy right now. ... he has a dream matchup against the Saints." ([51:19])
Running Backs
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D'Angelo Williams:
Advocated as a premier pick:
"D'Angelo Williams is just awesome. This guy's wicked." ([53:04]) -
Melvin Gordon:
Highlighted for his increased involvement post-injuries and a favorable matchup:
"Melvin Gordon finally caught some balls. ... he's a dream matchup." ([53:04])
Wide Receivers
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Antonio Brown:
Endorsed as a top-tier WR despite challenges:
"Antonio Brown will be targeted unless Leotis McKelvin is not playing again." ([54:37]) -
Jameson Crowder and Philip Dorsett:
Identified as sneaky yet valuable plays due to their target volumes and favorable matchups:
"Jameson Crowder might be just a little sneaky play for some people." ([55:45])
Tight Ends and Defenses
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Trey Burton:
Recommended as a sneaky TE option due to his involvement:
"Trey Burton could be a sneaky play as well." ([56:55]) -
Defenses:
Chris advises "paying up" for strong defenses like Arizona, Seattle, Carolina, and Denver:
"I think you should pay up just like last week." ([58:31])
Closing Remarks
As the episode wraps up, the hosts remind listeners to stay engaged with the latest rankings and updates to maximize their fantasy performance. They also promote their upcoming Periscope Q&A sessions and encourage participation in their vibrant community at jointhefoot.com.
Jason Moore shares, "I've been making notes and I've got a big pad of paper on ranking changes. So make sure you continue to check the rankings as the week goes on. They do Update." ([59:31])
The hosts bid farewell, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning and community support in achieving fantasy football success.
Notable Quotes:
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Mike Wright on LeGarrett Blunt:
"If it was 40, they don't care." ([03:32]) -
Jason Moore on Lamar Miller:
"He is currently top 10 in fantasy pros." ([02:50]) -
Andy Holloway on Alshon Jeffrey:
"If you have Alshon Jeffrey, ... make sure he's set to go in your flex." ([12:14]) -
Chris Meaney on Melvin Gordon:
"Melvin Gordon ... he's a dream matchup." ([53:04])
This comprehensive summary captures the essence of Week 3's Fantasy Footballers Podcast, offering listeners a structured overview of critical discussions, expert insights, and actionable advice to enhance their fantasy football strategies.
