Fantasy Footballers Podcast: Mock Draft Episode – Importance of SOS and Tiers (May 30, 2017)

In this episode of the Fantasy Footballers podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve into the intricacies of preparing for a fantasy football draft. Focusing on the significance of Strength of Schedule (SOS) and player tiers, the trio conducts a live mock draft, providing listeners with expert analysis and strategic insights to enhance their drafting prowess.

1. Introduction and Overview

The episode kicks off with the hosts welcoming listeners and setting the stage for a live mock draft from the ninth position in a standard league format. They emphasize the importance of understanding SOS and player tiers to gain a competitive edge.

Andy Holloway [01:58]:

"We're doing a mock draft live on the show today. One of the fan favorites, a live mock draft."

2. Listener Question: Strength of Schedule (SOS)

Early in the episode, Garrett from Rockford poses a question about the importance of SOS and reading into schedule strength across different positions. The hosts engage in a detailed discussion, highlighting how SOS can influence draft decisions, especially in the middle rounds.

Mike Wright [03:18]:

"I use it more to tie break or maybe when I get into the middle rounds... I may lean to a different pick because I want these picks to hit early."

Jason Moore [04:24]:

"Usually we tell people to not, you know, focus too much on strength of schedule... but I do look at the early season schedule more than the really when it's draft season."

Andy Holloway [05:55]:

"Terrence West, Jacquizz Rogers, maybe you're making an early season decision based on strength of schedule."

3. News Update: Matt Aziata Signs with Detroit

Before diving into the mock draft, Andy briefly shares news about Matt Aziata signing with the Detroit Lions, discussing its potential impact on other running backs in the team.

Andy Holloway [06:53]:

"It's quite, quite probable that the Dwayne Washington, Aziata, maybe even Zinner competition... they're not all making the roster."

4. Live Mock Draft Analysis

The core of the episode revolves around the live mock draft. The hosts meticulously analyze each pick, discussing player tiers, potential value, and strategic choices.

First Round Picks [07:43 – 11:24]

Starting from the ninth position, the initial selections include prominent running backs like David Johnson, Le'Veon Bell, and Ezekiel Elliott. The hosts express surprise over Mike Evans being drafted before Odell Beckham Jr.

Jason Moore [08:46]:

"It's sad to see Odell Beckham Jr. drop... that's the worst in a draft. Never let the maybes come in."

After considering wide receivers and running backs, the trio selects DeMarco Murray in the second round, emphasizing the scarcity of elite running backs.

Mike Wright [10:28]:

"I think it's probably still Freeman, but I also really like DeMarco Murray."

Jason Moore [11:08]:

"Freeman is still the guy I prefer. He's safe... I like Devonta Freeman."

Mid-Round Strategy and Player Selection [12:26 – 27:10]

As the draft progresses, discussions focus on balancing the roster between running backs and wide receivers, considering factors like player consistency and upside.

Andy Holloway [13:37]:

"In a standard league, to be able to have two stud running backs. Love it."

The selection of Demaryius Thomas and Sammy Watkins showcases the hosts' preference for high-upside wide receivers.

Andy Holloway [16:17]:

"I know, I look at Demaryius Thomas offers top 10 upside at the position."

Approaching Later Rounds: Tight Ends and Bench Fillers [37:11 – 44:35]

In the latter stages of the draft, the focus shifts to securing tight end positions and identifying potential breakout players for the bench.

Mike Wright [38:12]:

"I'm looking at Willie Snead or Stefan Diggs... big breakout potential."

Andy Holloway [39:30]:

"I lean Hunt over Ebron here and I would wait and just take another tight end."

Jason Moore [44:17]:

"I'm okay with that. If we only wanted home run hitter, possible drop."

Finalizing the Roster and Team Evaluation [44:35 – 47:10]

With the roster filled, the hosts evaluate their draft decisions, reflecting on the balance of positions and potential team performance.

Jason Moore [46:43]:

"I think I have a really good team... reliable starters, high upside depth."

Andy Holloway [47:02]:

"We will get into the mailbag a little bit on Thursday and some news and I'm sure some fun segments on there as well."

5. Conclusion and Takeaways

The episode wraps up with the hosts recapping their mock draft team, highlighting key strengths and areas for potential improvement. They encourage listeners to utilize resources like their Ultimate Draft Kit and engage with the community for ongoing support and strategy discussions.

Andy Holloway [45:10]:

"We use fantasydraftwizard.com to mock draft frequently. You can experiment with different position availability."

Mike Wright [46:02]:

"Mixing and how players are reacting to guys like Joe Mixon or if some other players start to break into the, you know."

Jason Moore [47:10]:

"Thank you for listening to another episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast."

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Mike Wright [03:18]:

  "I use it more to tie break or maybe when I get into the middle rounds..."

• Jason Moore [08:46]:

  "It's sad to see Odell Beckham Jr. drop... never let the maybes come in."

• Andy Holloway [13:37]:

  "In a standard league, to be able to have two stud running backs. Love it."

• Mike Wright [38:12]:

  "I'm looking at Willie Snead or Stefan Diggs... big breakout potential."

• Jason Moore [46:43]:

  "I think I have a really good team... reliable starters, high upside depth."

Final Thoughts

This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for fantasy football enthusiasts aiming to refine their draft strategies. By integrating SOS analysis and player tiers, the Fantasy Footballers provide valuable insights that can significantly influence draft outcomes. The live mock draft format, coupled with expert commentary, makes this episode an indispensable resource for both novice and seasoned fantasy managers.

For more detailed analysis and access to their Ultimate Draft Kit, visit [ultimate draftkit.com](http://ultimate draftkit.com) or follow the Fantasy Footballers on Twitter @TheFFBallers.