Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary: "Hold Em’ or Fold Em’ - LIVE in New York City" (July 2, 2019)

Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright

Introduction

The episode kicks off with the trio—Andy, Jason, and Mike—energized and ready for a lively discussion from the vibrant atmosphere of New York City. Their playful banter sets the tone for an engaging and insightful session dedicated to fantasy football strategies and player evaluations.

News and Notes

Packers Coach Matt LaFleur’s Offensive Focus

At [08:15], the hosts delve into the Green Bay Packers' strategic adjustments under Coach Matt LaFleur. LaFleur emphasizes increasing the involvement of running backs in the passing game to rectify last season’s low rushing totals.

• Jason Moore highlights, "He wants the running backs more involved in the passing game." ([08:28])

Lamar Miller’s Performance and Future Prospects

Jason and Mike analyze Lamar Miller’s unexpected breakout, comparing him to the late-career resurgence of Frank Gore. Despite his previous performances, Miller sheds eight pounds, potentially enhancing his agility and effectiveness on the field.

• Mike Wright remarks, "He’s shedding eight pounds...he has a better chance to impact positively." ([10:10])

Will Disley’s Role with the Seahawks

Discussing [12:00], the hosts talk about Will Disley’s expected increased role with the Seattle Seahawks. Despite his injury concerns, they express optimism about his potential contribution.

• Jason Moore states, "I like him; he's becoming the big Montana for the team." ([12:54])

Arizona Cardinals’ Offensive Changes

The departure of Darren Urban leaves uncertainty in Arizona’s offensive strategy. The trio projects Larry Fitzgerald, Christian Kirk, and Andy Isabella as the new starting trio, while questioning the future role of Hakeem Butler.

• Andy Holloway notes, "Prospect Larry Fitzgerald will be solid, but Christian Kirk has more breakout potential." ([14:08])

Hold or Fold ’Em

In this segment, the hosts evaluate specific players to determine whether fantasy managers should retain ("hold") or release/drop ("fold") them from their rosters based on performance metrics, team dynamics, and future potential.

1. Marquez Valdez Scantling (MVS)

• Andy Holloway advocates for holding Scantling, emphasizing his athleticism and improved rapport with Aaron Rodgers:

  "Marquez Valdez Scantling is in and of himself a very good wide receiver...his chemistry with Aaron Rodgers is improving." ([16:29])

• Jason Moore is more cautious, suggesting a fold due to unproven consistency.

2. Jarvis Landry

• Mike Wright recommends folding Jarvis Landry, citing a decline in target share and uncertainty in the Cleveland Browns’ offensive scheme:

  "Jarvis Landry is a good receiver for his team, but in fantasy, his target consistency is lacking." ([22:03])

• Jason Moore concurs, emphasizing Landry’s diminished role under new coaching dynamics.

3. George Kittle

• Jason Moore is critical of holding Kittle, questioning his fantasy reliability despite his on-field prowess:

  "The beginning of the end for George Kittle... questionable consistency." ([33:30])

• Andy Holloway counters by valuing Kittle’s elite status at tight end but acknowledges potential disappointment if he doesn’t maintain top-tier performance.

4. James Conner

• Mike Wright supports holding James Conner, highlighting his breakout year and significant touchdown tally:

  "James Conner was a waiver wire savior last season; I'm holding my pocket kings on him." ([38:48])

• Jason Moore and Andy Holloway debate the sustainability of Conner’s performance, with Jason leaning towards folding due to potential regression, while Andy remains optimistic about his value.

Notable Quotes

• Mike Wright ([02:02]):
  "All Antonio Brown is Home Alone 2. I really like that because...they did their best to duplicate the first magical movie."

• Jason Moore ([19:35]):
  "There’s an opportunity that I think maybe we don't see if he comes back into the slot being..."

• Andy Holloway ([37:14]):
  "I'd rather have Aaron look at the efficiency. He was great this year, but he was not just great. He was historically efficient."

Mailbag

Listeners’ questions provide further insights as the hosts offer personalized advice on drafting strategies and player evaluations.

Question 1: Player Issues at Offseason Start

• Dave Reed asks about players whose performance didn’t align with his offseason expectations.

  • Mike Wright cites Russell Wilson’s potential decline due to offensive scheme changes.

  • Andy Holloway expresses concerns over AJ Green’s low rankings despite his talent and current struggles.

Question 2: Drafting Strategies with FootClan Members

• Brent Maloney inquires about drafting tight ends in leagues with FootClan members.

  • Andy Holloway recommends finding a dependable late-round tight end based on personal confidence and trust in his rankings.

Question 3: Running Backs Preference

• Connor from Long Island seeks advice on choosing between Marlon Mack and Carry On Johnson in standard leagues.

  • Jason Moore and Andy Holloway both lean towards Marlon Mack for his dynamism, while Mike Wright supports Carry On Johnson for his game-script resilience.

Conclusion

The episode provides a thorough analysis of key fantasy football players, offering strategic advice on roster decisions. The hosts’ dynamic discussions, enriched with expert insights and supporting data, equip listeners with valuable tools to enhance their fantasy football performance. From evaluating emerging talents to scrutinizing veteran performances, Andy, Jason, and Mike navigate the complexities of fantasy football with clarity and expertise, ensuring that listeners are well-prepared for their draft strategies and weekly matchups.

For more insights and detailed analysis, visit The Fantasy Footballers website and follow them on Twitter @FFBall.