Fantasy Football Podcast 2017 - NFL Coaching Changes, Fantasy Impact

Release Date: February 28, 2017

Overview

In this episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve deep into the recent NFL coaching changes and their implications for fantasy football enthusiasts. Focusing primarily on the offensive transformations of various teams, they analyze how new coaching hires might influence player performances, draft strategies, and overall fantasy outcomes for the upcoming season.

Coaching Changes and Their Fantasy Impact

San Francisco 49ers: Kyle Shanahan Takes the Helm

The 49ers made a significant move by replacing Chip Kelly with the renowned offensive mind, Kyle Shanahan. Mike Wright highlights Shanahan's impressive track record:

“Kyle Shanahan has been an OC nine years before he got this head coaching job. Six of those nine years, his teams were top 10 in yards. Five of those nine years, they were top eight in passing yards.” (22:24)

Despite Shanahan’s history of fostering top-tier quarterbacks like Matt Schaub and Robert Griffin III, Jason Moore expresses caution:

“I think I am not going to buy into the rhetoric of Kyle Shanahan makes Colin Kaepernick great... Maybe Carlos Hyde will have a high level year with Shanahan coming in too.” (26:40)

The hosts agree that while Shanahan brings optimism, the immediate impact on fantasy football remains uncertain due to existing team dynamics and quarterback uncertainties.

Los Angeles Chargers: Anthony Lynn Replaces Mike McCoy

The Chargers' decision to appoint Anthony Lynn as the new head coach marks a shift towards a more balanced offensive strategy. Mike Wright praises Lynn's extensive experience with running backs:

“Anthony Lynn has been a running back coach since 2003 and six of his eight years his teams have been top six in rushing production.” (28:12)

Andy Holloway notes the potential for improved efficiency in the Chargers' running game, especially with Melvin Gordon benefiting from Lynn's expertise.

Los Angeles Rams: Sean McVay Brings Youth and Innovation

Sean McVay's appointment as the Rams' head coach introduces a fresh, youthful perspective to the team. Jason Moore emphasizes the challenges McVay may face:

“At 31 years old, McVay is super young, and there are players on his team older than him trying to coach and get their respect.” (31:17)

Despite concerns, Mike Wright remains optimistic about McVay's ability to develop the Rams' offense, drawing parallels to successful transitions in other teams.

Buffalo Bills: Sean McDermott Takes Over from Rex Ryan

The Bills' transition to Sean McDermott as head coach signifies a move to maintain their defensive strengths while subtly tweaking their offensive strategies. Rick Dennison’s role as offensive coordinator brings hope for a more disciplined and effective offense:

“Rick Dennison is the Offensive Coordinator... He was the Texans offensive coordinator from 2010 to 2013.” (37:11)

Jason Moore believes that these changes will stabilize the Bills' offense, potentially enhancing performances from key players like Shady McCoy and Sammy Watkins.

Denver Broncos: Vance Joseph Replaces Gary Kubiak

Denver's decision to part ways with Gary Kubiak in favor of Vance Joseph raises concerns about the Broncos' offensive future. The hosts express skepticism about Joseph's ability to fill Kubiak's shoes:

“I trust John Elway at this point. I think most people do. It is only out of that respect that I can say, okay, Vance Joseph as the head coach.” (43:46)

They discuss the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position and how it might affect the team's offensive strategies and fantasy player value.

Jacksonville Jaguars: Doug Marrone and Nathaniel Hackett Join

With Doug Marrone taking over as head coach and Nathaniel Hackett as offensive coordinator, the Jaguars aim to revitalize their offense. Mike Wright is optimistic about Hackett’s influence:

“Rick Dennison... was the Texans offensive coordinator from 2010 to 2013... This just for me confirms that Shady McCoy should still be thought of as a top five running back...” (38:37)

The trio anticipates improved offensive coherence, which could benefit fantasy players like Allen Robinson and Emmanuel Sanders.

Player News and Updates

Melvin Gordon vs. Jordan Howard: Risk Analysis

A significant portion of the episode focuses on comparing running backs Melvin Gordon and Jordan Howard, debating which player poses more risk for fantasy owners.

Andy Holloway poses the question:

“Who's riskier in your mind? Melvin Gordon or Jordan Howard?” (04:12)

Jason Moore leans towards Gordon, citing his versatility and improved offensive coaching in San Diego:

“I believe more in the offense in San Diego. I like some of the coaching changes for Melvin Gordon.” (05:23)

Mike Wright agrees, emphasizing Jordan Howard's dependency on red zone opportunities:

“I think it's Jordan Howard is the riskier guy, but it's a great debate.” (07:15)

Le'Veon Bell Returns to the Steelers

The return of Le'Veon Bell to Pittsburgh is met with enthusiasm. Jason Moore reflects:

“You've been dreaming about that move... Le'Veon Bell keeper owners are happy and ecstatic that he is back in Pittsburgh.” (09:35)

Antonio Brown’s Contract Extension

Antonio Brown secured a four-year, $68 million extension, becoming the highest-paid wide receiver in the league. Andy Holloway highlights Brown's enduring performance:

“He is not dependent on the athleticism to be amazing.” (10:44)

Bears and Alshon Jeffries

The Bears decided not to use the franchise tag on Alshon Jeffries, sparking discussions about his future and the team's wide receiver depth.

Mike Wright remarks:

“Kevin White is still there. And he's sometimes undrafted.” (12:05)

Kenny Stills’ Future with Miami

Kenny Stills may not return to the Dolphins due to potential excessive market demands. Jason Moore expresses hope for Stills' return:

“I really hope he comes back to the Dolphins. I want to see him in year two with Adam Gaze.” (13:21)

Latavius Murray Testing Free Agency

Latency Murray is expected to test the open market, with discussions on his true performance and reliance on the Oakland offensive line.

Andy Holloway questions:

“That is the question. And if you have a team that already has kind of an ancillary backfield piece, you wonder why would you pay versus drafting a guy.” (16:26)

Kirk Cousins and the 49ers

Reports suggest Kirk Cousins may sign a long-term deal with the 49ers, raising questions about his impact on the team's offense.

Mike Wright muses:

“Kirk Cousins, maybe he feeds the tight end position again.” (17:24)

Browns Place Second-Round Tender on Isaiah Crowell

The Browns have placed a second-round tender on Isaiah Crowell, indicating their intent to retain his services amidst free agency rumors.

Andy Holloway reports:

“The Browns have placed a second round tender on superstar Isaiah Crowell.” (39:37)

Insights and Strategic Recommendations

Throughout the episode, the hosts provide strategic insights for fantasy football managers:

• Assessing Coaching Impact: Understanding new offensive philosophies helps in evaluating player potential and drafting strategies.

• Risk Management: Balancing players like Melvin Gordon and Jordan Howard based on their offensive environments and coaching stability.

• Monitoring Player News: Staying updated with player movements and contract situations can offer early advantages in drafts and trades.

Andy Holloway emphasizes the importance of community and independent strategy development:

“This show is all about community. It's about making your league better. It's about making your strategies better so that you can develop them on your own.” (07:25)

Conclusion

The episode wraps up with a reminder of the importance of staying engaged with the fantasy football community and leveraging the insights provided by the Fantasy Footballers. The hosts encourage listeners to join their community at jointhefoot.com and follow them on social media for ongoing updates and strategies.

Andy Holloway concludes:

“We have a great Fantasy Footballers podcast episode for you today... We encourage you to stay tuned for the show after the show only on YouTube this offseason.” (41:18)

Listeners are invited to participate in upcoming debates and further discussions to enhance their fantasy football prowess.

Notable Quotes:

• Jason Moore (02:45): “This is one of our more important off season Shows every single year.”

• Andy Holloway (04:12): “Who’s riskier in your mind? Melvin Gordon or Jordan Howard?”

• Mike Wright (28:12): “Anthony Lynn has been a running back coach since 2003 and six of his eight years his teams have been top six in rushing production.”

• Jason Moore (05:23): “I believe more in the offense in San Diego. I like some of the coaching changes for Melvin Gordon.”

This detailed analysis provides fantasy football managers with crucial information on how recent NFL coaching changes may influence player performances and overall fantasy strategies for the 2017 season.