Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary: "Let’s Talk Trades, Pump the Brakes, Doctor Smocktor"

Release Date: October 24, 2018

The Fantasy Footballers episode titled "Let’s Talk Trades, Pump the Brakes, Doctor Smocktor" delves into critical mid-season fantasy football strategies, player evaluations, and trade analyses. Hosted by Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright, the trio provides insightful advice aimed at helping listeners optimize their fantasy teams for the upcoming weeks.

1. Pump the Brakes Segment

In the "Pump the Brakes" segment, the hosts advise listeners on players to approach with caution for Week 8, focusing on matchups, recent performances, and injury concerns.

• Jason Moore on Cam Newton
  Jason identifies Cam Newton as a high-risk player due to an unfavorable matchup against the Baltimore Ravens' strong defense.
  “I'm going to push the brakes on Cam Newton.” ([06:17])

• Mike Wright on Jarvis Landry and Joe Mixon
  Mike recommends caution with Jarvis Landry and Joe Mixon, highlighting the Browns' tough defense and Mixon's recent performance issues.
  “I'm pumping the brakes on Baker Mayfield slash Jarvis Landry.” ([07:19])

• Andy Holloway on New York Jets Offensive Players
  Andy advises against starting any Jets offensive players this week, citing inconsistencies in quarterback play and injuries.
  “I'm pumping the brakes on all Jets offensive players.” ([09:04])

2. News and Updates

The hosts discuss recent NFL news affecting fantasy lineups, including player injuries and team decisions.

• Dalvin Cook’s Injury Status
  Concerns are raised about Dalvin Cook’s hamstring injury potentially sidelining him through Week 10, emphasizing the importance of patience with such injuries.
  “Dalvin Cook with the hamstring injury will be out through the week 10 bye.” ([12:04])

• Denver Broncos Trade Rumors
  Andy updates listeners that the Broncos are not trading Demarius Thomas or Emmanuelle Sanders ahead of the trade deadline, hinting at potential future values with rookie Cortland Sutton.
  “Denver's reporting that the Broncos will not trade away Demarius Thomas.” ([14:33])

• Le'Veon Bell’s Availability
  Le'Veon Bell is expected to miss the upcoming week due to injury, affecting fantasy tight end considerations.
  “Le'Veon Bell’s not in the building. He won't play for another week.” ([15:02])

3. Trade Discussions

A significant portion of the episode centers around evaluating and advising on various trade proposals submitted by listeners through social media.

• Trading Rob Gronkowski for Isaiah Crowell
  The hosts critically assess a listener’s trade offer exchanging Rob Gronkowski for Isaiah Crowell.
  Mike Wright: “Isaiah Crowell should get the volume bump with Blah Powell out. But no, Crowell should get the volume bump.” ([23:09])
  Jason Moore: “A lot of leagues out there would say, oh, you got to vote against this.” ([23:59])

• Jordan Howard for Stefan Diggs in PPR Leagues
  A trade proposal of Jordan Howard for Stefan Diggs is evaluated, with consensus favoring Diggs due to his high target volume and PPR value.
  Mike Wright: “He's been ascending. Josh Gordon is on the way up.” ([26:35])

• Mixon and Jarvis Landry for Alvin Kamara
  The trade offer of Joe Mixon and Jarvis Landry for Alvin Kamara is debated, with mixed opinions based on league type and team needs.
  Andy Holloway: “I'd much rather have Mix and Jarvis because Mixon is basically like third in the league in terms of rushing yards per game.” ([28:26])

• Keenan Allen for Josh Gordon and Evan Ingram
  Trading Keenan Allen for Josh Gordon and Evan Ingram is discussed, with the hosts supporting the move if there's a need to bolster the tight end position.
  Mike Wright: “Josh Gordon is ascending. He's getting down the field deeper.” ([41:29])

4. Player Evaluations and Rankings

The trio provides their insights on player performances and adjusts rankings accordingly.

• Todd Gurley’s Dominance
  Todd Gurley is highlighted as a pivotal player, likened to a perennial top-tier running back whose consistent performance can significantly impact a fantasy championship.
  Jason Moore: “He's the closest thing we've had to Ladanian Tomlinson.” ([19:41])
  Andy Holloway: “Gurley is by far the fantasy MVP.” ([18:52])

• Emmanuel Sanders’ Value
  Emmanuel Sanders is praised for his exceptional performance, making him a top-tier wide receiver despite concerns about longevity.
  Jason Moore: “Emmanuel Sanders has been unbelievable.” ([37:32])
  Andy Holloway: “He is 10 to 12. I think as a back.” ([38:13])

• Odell Beckham Jr.’s Trade Value
  Odell Beckham Jr. is evaluated for his current performance and future potential, with discussions on whether trading him constitutes “selling high.”
  Jason Moore: “If he were on a team that was just better, it'd be great for him.” ([36:43])
  Andy Holloway: “He's so paid, he demands so much.” ([35:11])

5. Thursday Night Preview: Dolphins vs. Texans

The hosts preview the upcoming Thursday night game between the Miami Dolphins and Houston Texans, analyzing key players and potential fantasy impacts.

• Miami Dolphins’ Running Back Situation
  With key players like Ryan Tannehill, Kenny Stills, and Albert Wilson on the bench, the Dolphins' offense relies on Lamar Miller and Kenyan Drake.
  Jason Moore: “I would rather play Kenyan Drake in this game.” ([44:39])

• Deshaun Watson’s Performance
  Deshaun Watson is positioned as a top-10 fantasy quarterback for the week, despite concerns about his recent injuries affecting his performance.
  Jason Moore: “I see Deshaun Watson as a top 10 option this week.” ([47:26])

• Will Fuller’s Potential
  Will Fuller is discussed as a potential high-upside play if his target count increases due to Kiki Cootie's absence.
  Mike Wright: “I'm far more intrigued with Will Fuller.” ([46:44])

6. Community and Engagement

Throughout the episode, the hosts engage with their audience, addressing listener questions and encouraging participation in polls and giveaways.

• Listener Trade Questions
  The hosts respond to various listener-submitted trade scenarios, providing strategic advice and highlighting potential outcomes based on current team dynamics.

• Podcast Awards and Giveaways
  Andy Holloway promotes voting for the podcast in the iHeartRadio Podcast Awards and announces a giveaway of a signed Saquon Barkley jersey to engage the community.

  Andy Holloway: “FootClan, vote for us every day for the iHeartRadio Podcast Awards.” ([05:04])

Conclusion

This episode of the Fantasy Footballers offers a comprehensive analysis of mid-season strategies, emphasizing the importance of informed trade decisions and player evaluations. By addressing listener trade proposals and providing actionable advice, the hosts equip fantasy managers with the tools needed to navigate the competitive landscape of Week 8 and beyond.

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