Fantasy Footballers Podcast Episode Summary Episode: Fantasy Football Podcast 2017 - Early Top 12 QB + Draft Predictions
Release Date: April 18, 2017

In this episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve deep into their Early Top 12 Quarterback Rankings and provide insightful Draft Predictions for the upcoming fantasy football season. Skipping over advertisements and casual banter, the trio offers a comprehensive analysis aimed at helping fantasy managers build winning teams.

1. Introduction to Quarterback Rankings

The episode kicks off with the hosts announcing their focus on quarterbacks, stressing the importance of this position in fantasy football. Mike Wright highlights the lack of appreciation for Drew Brees in the fantasy community despite his consistent performance:

“I'm still Mesmerized by the lack of Drew Brees love that exists in the fantasy community for how good that guy has been for so long.” [02:44]

2. Detailed Analysis of Top Quarterbacks

a. Aaron Rodgers – #1 Ranked QB

Aaron Rodgers leads the pack due to his exceptional efficiency and touchdown prowess. The hosts commend his ability to minimize interceptions while maximizing touchdowns, particularly in the red zone.

“He's not going to get, you know, the interceptions, the back breaking interceptions that can kill you as a fantasy owner.” – Mike Wright [07:36]

Key Points:

• Consistency: Rodgers has been a top 10 QB for eight of the last nine years.
• Red Zone Efficiency: Achieves touchdowns on approximately 46.7% of red zone attempts.
• Statistical Dominance: Averaging 40 touchdowns and over 4,400 yards since 2011.

b. Andrew Luck – #2 Ranked QB

Andrew Luck is ranked second despite concerns over his team's offensive line and past injuries. The hosts express optimism for Luck's potential improvement with better team support.

“If you can just give him the time that he needs, he would be the number one quarterback.” – Jason Moore [12:00]

Key Points:

• Performance Potential: Projected to finish within the top three quarterbacks.
• Team Improvements: Expected enhancements in offensive line and offensive strategy.
• Consistency: Finished as a top QB in most games he played last season.

c. Tom Brady – #3 Ranked QB

Tom Brady remains a solid fantasy option despite his age. The discussion touches on his recent performance, including a suspension that limited his games last year.

“All signs certainly point to another year of greatness for Tom Brady.” – Andy Holloway [15:57]

Key Points:

• Experience: Proven track record of high fantasy production.
• Offensive Support: Acquisition of Brandon Cooks and return of key receivers.
• Age Factor: At 40, there are considerations about longevity and injury risk.

d. Drew Brees – #4 Ranked QB

Drew Brees is highlighted as the most underrated quarterback, consistently producing top-tier fantasy numbers but often overshadowed by contemporaries like Brady and Brees.

“I think he's the most underrated quarterback of all time...” – Jason Moore [23:01]

Key Points:

• Efficiency: High passing accuracy and consistent yardage.
• Weapon Availability: Maintains strong connections with receivers like Michael Thomas.
• Home Advantage: Performs significantly better at home compared to away games.

e. Matt Ryan – #5 Ranked QB

Matt Ryan is discussed as a reliable quarterback with potential for significant fantasy upside, especially with the revamped offensive line in Detroit.

“I like Matthew Stafford. I think he's one of my favorite guys to grab very late...” – Mike Wright [59:08]

Key Points:

• Consistency: Multiple seasons finishing in the top 8.
• Team Upgrades: Improved offensive line and added receivers like Theo Riddick.
• Potential Upside: Capable of surpassing previous performances with enhanced team support.

f. Russell Wilson – #6 Ranked QB

Russell Wilson’s ranking reflects his underperformance last season due to injuries that limited his mobility and effectiveness.

“He needs to be able to get out of the pocket. Find Doug Baldwin, find Jimmy Graham...” – Mike Wright [32:17]

Key Points:

• Injury Impact: Limited mobility affected both rushing yards and pocket protection.
• Recovery Potential: Expected to bounce back with full health and improved team dynamics.
• Consistency Issues: Last season marked a significant drop from his previous top 10 finishes.

g. Derek Carr – #7 Ranked QB

Derek Carr faces concerns regarding his touchdown efficiency and overall performance consistency.

“I have some concerns that you could have...there are certain guys that you slot in as guaranteed top 10 guys. For me, it's not that way with Derek Carr.” – Mike Wright [36:33]

Key Points:

• Efficiency Concerns: Lower touchdown rates despite high passing volume.
• Weapon Utilization: Impact of offensive weapons like Mike Evans and DeSean Jackson.
• Future Potential: Young quarterback with room for growth but not a locked top 10 option.

h. Dak Prescott – #8 Ranked QB

Dak Prescott receives praise for his rookie season, emphasizing his steady performance and efficiency.

“He was the only one of those five guys without a top three finish.” – Andy Holloway [43:00]

Key Points:

• Steady Performance: Consistently producing QB1 numbers almost every week.
• Rising Profile: Expected improvement with increased offensive support and experience.
• Rookie Impact: Demonstrated potential to be a reliable fantasy starter.

i. Jameis Winston – #9 Ranked QB

Jameis Winston is acknowledged for his high upside, especially with strong offensive weapons like Mike Evans and the addition of DeSean Jackson.

“Jameis is the only quarterback to throw for over 4,000 yards in his rookie and sophomore year.” – Andy Holloway [52:24]

Key Points:

• Rushing Ability: Additional value from rushing touchdowns.
• Weapon Support: Enhanced by receiving talents improving his passing efficiency.
• Potential: High ceiling with established wide receivers but variable consistency.

j. Kirk Cousins – #10 Ranked QB

Kirk Cousins is discussed with a focus on his strong passing yards but concerns over touchdown rates and team offensive dynamics.

“There's still plenty to like about him for fantasy football, even with some built-in concerns.” – Andy Holloway [49:45]

Key Points:

• Passing Volume: High yardage but moderate touchdown numbers.
• Team Changes: New offensive coordinator aimed at improving performance.
• Consistency: Maintains a reputation for being a reliable fantasy option despite some inefficiencies.

k. Philip Rivers – #11 Ranked QB

Philip Rivers is recognized for his historical consistency but faced recent declines in stats due to team injuries and offensive struggles.

“He's a guy who if you want 4,000 yards and 30 touchdowns, Philip Rivers, he's going to give it to you.” – Andy Holloway [56:53]

Key Points:

• Veteran Presence: Consistently high fantasy rankings over the years.
• Team Challenges: Injuries to key receivers have impacted his recent performance.
• Potential for Revival: With the return of Keenan Allen and better offensive strategies, Rivers could bounce back.

l. Matthew Stafford – #12 Ranked QB

Matthew Stafford rounds out the list with a discussion on his potential resurgence following team roster improvements, particularly on the offensive line.

“He's always going to be over 4,200 yards.” – Mike Wright [59:46]

Key Points:

• High Potential: Capable of top-five performances with enhanced team support.
• Team Upgrades: Improved offensive line and added offensive weapons to bolster his game.
• Injury Concerns: Recent hand injuries have raised questions about his consistency and performance.

3. Pre-Draft Predictions for Rookies

Responding to a listener's Twitter question, the hosts predict Leonard Fournette as their most fantasy-relevant rookie, expecting him to be a top running back due to his draft capital and potential high usage. They also discuss alternatives like Dalvin Cook and Christian McCaffrey, emphasizing the importance of rookies who can provide immediate fantasy value.

“I would say Dalvin Cook because I think he does land in like maybe Philadelphia or a really, really good situation.” – Mike Wright [05:04]

4. Mailbag Segment

A listener named Joe from Pensacola inquires about the "wait on QB" strategy, specifically how far a top-tier quarterback should fall before drafting them versus selecting other high-value positions earlier.

“How far would a top tier quarterback have to fall before you would be comfortable taking him?” – Joe [61:38]

The hosts discuss the balance between securing a reliable quarterback late in the draft versus investing early in high-impact positions like running backs and wide receivers. They suggest that quarterbacks like Aaron Rodgers in the sixth round are worthy of a pick but should be weighed against the value of elite players available at other positions.

5. Conclusion

Wrapping up the episode, the hosts encourage listeners to join their fantasy community at joinTheFoot.com, subscribe on various platforms, and engage with their content on social media. They tease future episodes focused on quarterbacks and other positions, ensuring fantasy managers stay informed and competitive.

“We exist to make your fantasy football league more fun, filled with more winning…” – Mike Wright [66:22]

This episode serves as a robust resource for fantasy football enthusiasts, offering detailed quarterback rankings backed by statistical analysis and strategic insights. Whether you're preparing for your draft or seeking to refine your lineup, the Fantasy Footballers provide valuable perspectives to enhance your fantasy football experience.