Fantasy Footballers Podcast Episode Summary Episode: Fantasy Football Podcast 2016 - Yahoo's Brad Evans, Rookie RB Rundown, Mailbag
Release Date: May 5, 2016
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

1. Introduction and Show Context

The episode kicks off with the hosts welcoming listeners back to the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, acknowledging the day's Cinco de Mayo celebration (00:58). They briefly reflect on their recent interview with David Johnson, highlighting both positive feedback and a humorous oversight—a missed opportunity to serenade the guest (01:18–03:00). This lighthearted moment sets the tone for the episode's engaging and entertaining nature.

2. Guest Segment: Interview with Brad Evans

a. Tennessee Titans Backfield: Derrick Henry vs. DeMarco Murray

The primary focus of the episode is an insightful interview with Brad Evans from Yahoo Sports (03:35). Evans delves into the Tennessee Titans' running back situation following their acquisition of DeMarco Murray alongside Derrick Henry. He anticipates a workload split heavily favoring Murray, projecting a 70-30 split (08:09). Evans critiques Derrick Henry's pass-blocking abilities, suggesting that Murray's versatility as a receiver makes him a more valuable asset in fantasy football (09:30).

Notable Quote:
Brad Evans on Derrick Henry's pass-blocking:
"As Frankensteinian as Derrick Henry is, I am shocked that the guy cannot stand other guys up." (09:30)

b. Seattle Seahawks' Running Backs: Rawls, CJ Prosise, and Alex Collins

Evans evaluates the Seahawks' diverse running back roster, highlighting the potential of rookie CJ Prosise. Originally a defensive back and slot receiver, Prosise impressed the coaches with his adaptability and showed promise as a three-down back (12:10). Evans compares Prosise to Fred Jackson, emphasizing his elusiveness and downhill running ability, positioning him as a potential starter ahead of veterans like Thomas Rawls.

Notable Quote:
Evans on CJ Prosise's potential:
"I'm telling you, if you go to YouTube and just... you'll be removing your belt. That's the kind of skill set this guy is bringing to the table." (15:10)

c. Baltimore Ravens' Running Backs: Justin Forsett vs. Kenneth Dixon

Discussion shifts to the Ravens' crowded backfield. Evans praises Kenneth Dixon for his elusiveness and vision, projecting him as the leading backine Baltimore over veterans like Justin Forsett (18:12). He underscores Dixon's multi-dimensional skill set and anticipates significant fantasy impact if he can master pass protection.

Notable Quote:
Evans on Kenneth Dixon:
"He's a magician in space, does a lot of Houdini acts... he's got the vision, he's got the cutback ability." (18:12)

d. Ezekiel Elliott and Other Running Backs

The conversation transitions to Ezekiel Elliott, the highly-touted rookie RB drafted fourth overall by Dallas. Evans expresses skepticism about Elliott's long-term viability due to concerns over pass protection, despite acknowledging his physical prowess and potential high ceiling (25:52). The hosts debate Elliott's ranking, with Andy Holloway placing him at #11 and Jason Moore at #9-13, emphasizing his top-five potential despite uncertainties.

Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway on Ezekiel Elliott's potential:
"But I think he's going to get the ball around 200. I don't think Darren McFadden is going to be thrown away... He'll be top three." (27:15)

3. Post-Interview Discussion: Running Back Rankings and Projections

After the interview, the hosts discuss their rankings and projections for various running backs, incorporating Evans' insights. Mike Wright shares his trade involving Ryan Matthews from Philadelphia, positioning him as a draft value despite differing expert rankings (34:57). They also touch on other notable RBs like Frank Gore and Ahmad Bradshaw, assessing their potential fantasy performance based on team dynamics and past productivity.

Notable Quote:
Jason Moore on Mike Wright's trade choice:
"I'll put you on blast for taking advantage of that poor soul." (35:05)

4. Mailbag Segment: Listener Questions and Advice

The episode features a robust mailbag segment where listeners submit questions regarding fantasy football strategies. Key discussions include:

a. Strategy for Two Quarterback and Two Tight End Leagues

Listener Kyle from Dayton poses a question about managing a league format with two quarterbacks and two tight ends, emphasizing position scarcity. The hosts recommend:

• Andy Holloway: Suggests sacrificing tight end depth to prioritize quarterbacks and other positions, leveraging the ability to stream tight ends effectively (52:20).

• Mike Wright: Advocates for securing elite wide receivers while punting tight end, focusing on quarterback streaming to maximize team strength (53:07).

Notable Quote:
Mike Wright on league strategy:
"If you are listening, you're bringing up the reason why right now. Go out and try to steal Ryan Matthews in your leagues." (36:14)

b. Ezekiel Elliott vs. Lamar Miller

Listener Dylan from Pittsburgh asks whether to draft Ezekiel Elliott or Lamar Miller. The hosts weigh the potential and uncertainties of Elliott against Miller's proven track record (54:05).

• Jason Moore: Prefers taking Elliott for his high upside.
• Mike Wright: Opposes due to Elliott's rookiness.
• Andy Holloway: Agrees with taking Elliott if possible, recognizing his potential as a top-five RB (57:42).

c. Other Listener Questions

Additional questions addressed include preferences between different quarterbacks and evaluating mid-round picks like Ahmad Bradshaw for long-term value (54:43).

5. Quarterback Position Analysis

The hosts provide an in-depth analysis of the quarterback position, discussing the streaming strategy and evaluating various QBs' fantasy viability.

• Ryan Fitzpatrick: Identified as a potential loser of the draft due to questionable performance prospects (46:27).

• Andy Dalton: Hosts debate his ranking and potential, with Andy Holloway advocating for a higher position based on his team’s offensive weapons (56:41).

Notable Quote:
Andy Holloway on Andy Dalton:
"I have Ezekiel Elliott in that awesome Dallas backfield outside of the top 10. He is my number 11." (27:15)

6. Closing Remarks and Announcements

As the episode wraps up, the hosts make several announcements:

• Upcoming Guest: Allen Robinson from the Jacksonville Jaguars will be featured in the next episode.

• Podcast Awards: Nominations are being tallied, with gratitude extended to listeners for their support (59:58).

• Fantasy Footballers Products: Promotion of their 2016 Ultimate Draft Kit available on their website.

Notable Quote:
Jason Moore on upcoming episodes:
"Allen Robinson, wide receiver for the Jacksonville Jaguars. On the show next week, guaranteed." (60:33)

Notable Highlights and Quotes

• Serenade Failure:
  Mike Wright: "Here’s our official vocal instrumental apology to the Foot Clan. We will assuredly have him on again..." (03:00)

• Kenneth Dixon's Potential:
  Brad Evans: "He’s a magician in space, does a lot of Houdini acts... he’s got that vision, he’s got the cutback ability." (18:12)

• Ezekiel Elliott's Skepticism:
  Brad Evans: "He's not going to be on any of my dynasty rosters." (09:45)

• Ryan Matthews Trade Critique:
  Jason Moore: "And I'm going to put you on blast for taking advantage of that poor soul." (35:07)

• Andy Dalton's Ranking Discussion:
  Andy Holloway: "If you're listening, I'm Dalton to 22 and I really... I think he's going to end up being drafted as a top five, absolute top five running back this year." (57:45)

Conclusion

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast offers a comprehensive analysis of rookie running backs, leveraging expert insights from Brad Evans. The discussion seamlessly transitions between in-depth guest interviews and interactive listener segments, providing actionable advice for fantasy managers. Notable humor and engaging banter among the hosts enhance the informative content, making it a valuable resource for both seasoned fantasy players and newcomers.

Timestamps Reference:

• 00:58 – Cinco de Mayo and Show Opening
• 01:18 – David Johnson Interview Reflection
• 03:00 – Missed Serenade Apology
• 03:35 – Introduction of Brad Evans
• 08:09 – Tennessee Backfield Split
• 09:30 – Derrick Henry Critique
• 12:10 – Seahawks' CJ Prosise Evaluation
• 15:10 – CJ Prosise's Potential
• 18:12 – Ravens' Kenneth Dixon Analysis
• 25:52 – Ezekiel Elliott Discussion Begins
• 27:15 – Hosts' Rankings of Elliott
• 34:57 – Ryan Matthews Trade
• 35:05 – Critique of Mike's Trade
• 36:14 – Strategy on Ryan Matthews
• 43:54 – Bold Prediction Segment
• 48:49 – Mailbag Segment Begins
• 56:41 – Andy Dalton Ranking Debate
• 57:42 – Andy Dalton's Potential Pick
• 59:58 – Podcast Awards Announcement
• 60:33 – Upcoming Guest Announcement