Podcast Summary: Fantasy Footballers - Fantasy Football Podcast Episode: QB Rankings Part Two + Cam Newton Hype, Best Ball Tips
Release Date: August 14, 2020
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright
Duration: Approximately 60 minutes

Introduction

In the August 14, 2020 episode of Fantasy Footballers - Fantasy Football Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright dive deep into the intricacies of quarterback rankings, discuss the emerging hype around Cam Newton, and provide invaluable best ball tips for fantasy football enthusiasts. The episode is rich with expert analysis, strategic insights, and engaging banter, making it a must-listen for both seasoned and novice fantasy football players.

Quarterback Rankings Part Two

Understanding the QB Landscape

The hosts begin by addressing the sheer number of quarterbacks considered as top-tier options. Jason Moore emphasizes the volatility of quarterback performance:

"Last season, nine of the first ten quarterbacks selected in drafts finished lower than where they were drafted." [16:37]

Andy Holloway highlights the evolution of the quarterback pool:

"While there were 40 different top 12 quarterbacks last season, there's only 32 NFL teams, making the actual viable options much slimmer." [14:13]

Streaming Quarterbacks Strategy

The discussion pivots to the strategy of streaming quarterbacks—a technique where managers rotate quarterbacks based on favorable weekly matchups rather than relying on a single starter.

Mike Wright supports this approach:

"On average, the quarterback we pick to stream every week finishes around QB6 in scoring." [15:43]

Jason Moore adds that this strategy allows managers to invest early draft capital in more consistently high-performing positions, leveraging quarterbacks for their weekly potential rather than long-term reliability.

News and Updates

Kansas City Chiefs' Contract Strategies

The Chiefs' strategic financial maneuvers are dissected, focusing on their significant cap space and high-profile signings.

Jason Moore explains:

"They began the offseason with $141 million in cap space and have managed to sign key players like Patrick Mahomes to a half-billion-dollar deal." [06:32]

Andy Holloway discusses the implications for dynasty leagues:

"Travis Kelce's extended contract secures his position for six years, making him a cornerstone for fantasy owners." [08:05]

Lamar Miller's PUP Status

The Patriots' recent developments with running back Lamar Miller are touched upon, highlighting his placement on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list and its impact on team dynamics.

Andy Holloway humorously remarks:

"Lamar Miller joined Sony Michelle on the PUP list upon signing." [09:01]

Jason Moore clarifies:

"Miller was primarily brought in as insurance for Sony Michelle's recovery, shifting the fantasy outlook towards Damien Harris." [09:38]

Cam Newton's Emergence with the Patriots

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the burgeoning excitement around Cam Newton joining the New England Patriots.

Andy Holloway expresses optimism:

"The hype train for Cam Newton is undeniable, especially with his dominant personality and skills." [11:10]

Mike Wright shares his confidence in Newton:

"I believe Cam Newton is 100% healthy and ready to deliver top-tier fantasy performance." [44:29]

Jason Moore discusses the potential for Newton in the Patriots' system:

"Cam brings a strong rushing baseline, making him a valuable asset in four-point passing leagues." [21:54]

Strategies and Insights

Evaluating Quarterbacks Beyond Rankings

The hosts emphasize the importance of not solely relying on rankings when drafting quarterbacks. Instead, they advocate for analyzing weekly matchups, team dynamics, and individual player potential.

Andy Holloway provides a nuanced view:

"Every quarterback can produce on a weekly basis; the key is to utilize data on matchups to maximize scoring opportunities." [17:01]

Jason Moore cautions against overvaluing certain QBs based on mere reputation:

"Tom Brady is ranked QB9, but considering his new environment in Tampa Bay, his potential is much higher." [18:40]

Best Ball Tips

The episode concludes with the hosts offering best ball strategies, focusing on drafting upside players who can deliver big plays without the need for active roster management each week.

Mike Wright shares actionable advice:

"Focus on players like Curtis Samuel and James Washington in later rounds. Their ability to explode for big plays makes them ideal for best ball formats." [56:29]

Jason Moore adds:

"Players like Rashad Perryman and McColl Hardman, despite being late-round picks, have the potential to significantly boost your best ball team's scoring." [58:16]

Specific Quarterbacks Discussion

Tom Brady

Jason Moore is notably bullish on Brady’s potential:

"I believe in Tom Brady this year. His transition to Tampa Bay could elevate him to a top-five fantasy quarterback." [17:48]

Andy Holloway remains cautiously optimistic, noting the challenges but recognizing Brady’s enduring skill:

"You won't get a mediocre season from Tom Brady if he maintains his form. His new weapons in Tampa Bay offer substantial upside." [21:53]

Cam Newton

Cam Newton is a focal point of the episode, with the hosts debating his fantasy viability.

Mike Wright champions Newton:

"Cam Newton has always been good for fantasy, especially with his rushing touchdowns. I'm excited to see how he performs in the Patriots' system." [44:55]

Jason Moore acknowledges the potential but remains cautious about consistency:

"I like Cam in four-point passing leagues due to his rushing ability, but the Patriots' defensive changes could impact his production." [21:54]

Matt Ryan

Matt Ryan is discussed in the context of his fluctuating performance and system changes.

Jason Moore expresses a balanced view:

"I'm happy with Matt Ryan if he falls to the double-digit rounds, but I'm not reaching for him as a QB8." [34:57]

Andy Holloway examines Ryan's historical performance:

"Matt Ryan has consistently thrown for over 4,000 yards, but his touchdown and interception rates need improvement for higher fantasy rankings." [33:05]

Daniel Jones

Daniel Jones receives a mixed evaluation, with differing opinions on his breakout potential.

Mike Wright is optimistic:

"Daniel Jones has the potential to bring significant yardage and touchdowns, especially with a healthy offensive line and elite receivers." [37:00]

Andy Holloway remains skeptical:

"Despite flashes of brilliance, Daniel Jones' inconsistency and tough early-season schedule make him a risky fantasy option." [38:27]

Other Quarterbacks

The hosts briefly touch upon other quarterbacks such as Ryan Fitzpatrick, Kirk Cousins, Joe Burrow, Baker Mayfield, and Teddy Bridgewater, discussing their potential to surprise or disappoint in the fantasy realm.

Jason Moore highlights Baker Mayfield as a sleeper:

"Baker Mayfield is a post-hype sleeper. If the offensive line improves and Odell Beckham stays healthy, he could bounce back significantly." [54:30]

Andy Holloway points to Joe Burrow’s promising rookie season:

"Joe Burrow could have one of the best rookie seasons for a quarterback in recent memory, thanks to his talented receiving corps." [54:01]

Mike Wright mentions Teddy Bridgewater’s potential in Carolina:

"Teddy Bridgewater could surprise by becoming a reliable streaming option in favorable matchups, especially with Matt Rhule’s coordination." [55:04]

Best Ball Tips

Identifying Undervalued Wide Receivers

The hosts offer strategies for identifying wide receivers who can deliver big plays in best ball formats without requiring active management.

Mike Wright recommends:

"Look for late-round wide receivers like Denzel Mims and James Washington. These players have the potential to explode into significant fantasy assets when given the opportunity." [56:30]

Jason Moore emphasizes the importance of having a plan to target these players:

"Have a strategy in place for when to draft players like Rashad Perryman and James Washington. Their big-play potential can be game-changers in best ball leagues." [56:55]

Notable Quotes

• Jason Moore on quarterback volatility:

  "Nine of the first ten quarterbacks selected in drafts finished lower than where they were drafted." [16:37]

• Mike Wright on Cam Newton’s readiness:

  "Cam Newton is 100% healthy and ready to deliver top-tier fantasy performance." [44:29]

• Andy Holloway on streaming QBs:

  "Use data on matchups to maximize scoring opportunities." [17:01]

• Jason Moore on Tom Brady’s potential:

  "I believe in Tom Brady this year. His transition to Tampa Bay could elevate him to a top-five fantasy quarterback." [17:48]

Conclusion

The Fantasy Footballers wrap up the episode by reiterating the importance of flexibility and strategic planning in quarterback selections. With an overwhelming number of quarterbacks vying for top spots, the hosts advocate for a streaming approach to maximize weekly performance while allowing early draft capital to bolster other key positions. The emerging hype around Cam Newton is cautiously embraced, recognizing both his potential upside and the uncertainties surrounding his integration into the Patriots' system. Additionally, the best ball tips provided offer actionable strategies for managers looking to capitalize on undervalued players with big-play potential.

Listeners are encouraged to engage with the podcast community, participate in giveaways, and stay updated through various platforms to enhance their fantasy football experience.

Notable Resources Mentioned:

• Ted Lasso on Apple TV Plus
• Best Ball Mania by Underdog Fantasy: underdogfantasy.com
• Shady Rays: shadyrays.com with promo code fantasy
• Quip: getquip.com with promo code footballers

Stay Connected:

• Website: jointhefoot.com
• Twitter: @FFBallers
• Instagram: @fantasyfootballers
• YouTube: The Fantasy Footballer YouTube Channel

This summary captures the essence of the Fantasy Footballers' episode, providing listeners with a comprehensive overview of the discussions, insights, and strategies shared by the hosts. Whether you're strategizing your quarterback rankings or seeking best ball advice, this episode offers a wealth of information to elevate your fantasy football game.