Podcast Summary: Fantasy Footballers - Episode "Super Bowl Picks + Gronk Smash, #FootClan Q’s"

Release Date: August 31, 2018

In this engaging episode of The Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike Wright delve into a variety of topics, ranging from preseason player performances to Super Bowl predictions and listener questions. The conversation is vibrant, filled with expert analysis, humor, and actionable advice for fantasy football enthusiasts.

1. Analyzing Ronald Jones II’s Preseason Performance

The episode kicks off with a critical examination of Ronald Jones II’s preseason outings with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Hosts express skepticism about his ability to translate his college success to the NFL.

Andy Holloway shares his disappointment:
“I was sharing my disgust for Ronald Jones preseason. It’s equivalent to basically, I feel like he is trying to get an achievement like an unlock. Like, can you get 22 yards with 28 carries? Achievement unlocked, complete.”
[01:15]

Ronald Jones II responds by highlighting Jones’s strengths in space:
“He's electric in space. And when you got him there, he would juke guys.”
[03:13]

However, concerns remain about Jones’s performance in a less creative offense:
“I don't think his skill set would translate unless he gets in space and is with a creative team.”
[03:22]

The discussion underscores the importance of offensive schemes in maximizing a player’s potential, especially for those with specific skill sets like Jones.

2. Super Bowl Predictions

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the trio’s Super Bowl predictions. Each host presents their unique take on which teams will vie for the Lombardi Trophy.

Ronald Jones II confidently predicts:
“I’m going to go with the Minnesota Vikings with their shiny new quarterback, Kirk Cousins, getting so shiny to the Super Bowl against the defense with the easiest path imaginable, the Jacksonville Jaguars.”
[07:24]

Mike Wright aligns closely but shifts his focus to a division rival:
“Instead of the Vikings, I reluctantly... the Green Bay Packers will be taking on the Jaguars.”
[08:03]

He justifies his choice by comparing the Packers’ defense to last year's Saints, emphasizing the balance of offense and defense as key to success:
“That's a recipe for success in the NFL when both sides of the ball are good.”
[08:45]

Andy Holloway brings a different perspective by selecting the Pittsburgh Steelers and New Orleans Saints matchup:
“I think the Steelers defense will begin to gel and be worthy of a deep playoff run. And I think they get there and I think the Saints bring it home.”
[09:00]

This segment highlights the varied analytical approaches the hosts use, considering factors like defensive strength and offensive consistency.

3. Show Milestone and Introductions

Celebrating their longevity, the hosts announce nearing their 600th episode and introduce Baby Josh, an intern shadowing their producer, Brooks. Their playful banter adds a light-hearted touch to the conversation.

Andy Holloway introduces Baby Josh:
“Baby Josh is here shadowing Brooks, the producer.”
[11:20]

The humorous interactions underscore the camaraderie among the hosts, making the podcast relatable and entertaining.

4. NFL Contract Updates: Gronkowski and Aaron Donald

The hosts discuss significant NFL contract news, focusing on Rob Gronkowski’s revised contract with the Patriots and Aaron Donald’s new deal with the Rams.

Andy Holloway highlights Gronkowski’s incentives:
“He can make more money by doing more things statistically. On the field, he can make an extra, what, 4.3 million in incentives.”
[13:12]

Ronald Jones II emphasizes the strategic trade for Gronkowski:
“I'm getting Gronk everywhere that I possibly can where it makes sense.”
[13:42]

Regarding Aaron Donald, the conversation touches on his significant six-year, $135 million contract, including $87 million guaranteed, and its implications for the Rams’ Super Bowl aspirations.

Mike Wright remarks on the Rams’ financial strategy:
“We got no space in the cap and the Rams say what? We don't. What's wrong with you?”
[44:31]

These updates provide listeners with insights into how major contracts can influence team dynamics and fantasy football considerations.

5. Waiver Wire Strategies and Keeper Leagues

In the mailbag segment, listener Emanuel asks about commissioners intervening in trades, leading to a broader discussion on waiver wire strategies and the mechanics of keeper leagues.

Emanuel’s Question:
“What are your thoughts on commissioners intervening with trade? Should they have a final say on all the trades or let them go because the two parties have agreed to them?”
[17:16]

Mike Wright advocates against trade vetoes:
“Vetoes are verduivos. It's ridiculous... Let people run their teams, how they want to run their teams.”
[18:20]

Ronald Jones II adds his preference for ADP-based keeper values:
“ADP minus a rounder... Wherever they were drafted, that's their value.”
[31:55]

The hosts emphasize the importance of allowing team owners autonomy in their trades and the detrimental effects of excessive commissioner intervention.

6. Best Ball Bonanza Segment

Jason Moore and the hosts wrap up the episode with the Best Ball Bonanza segment, providing tips for best ball drafting strategies.

Jason Moore’s Top Tip:
“Don’t try to live stream while it answer questions while participating in a basketball draft... You just make bad picks.”
[41:29]

Ronald Jones II echoes the importance of focus during drafts:
“Take your time in those leagues. You have a long time on the clock and capitalize.”
[43:00]

They advise listeners to prioritize attention during drafts, whether in fast or slow formats, to optimize their best ball strategies and avoid common pitfalls.

7. Listener Questions and Advice

The episode features several listener questions, which the hosts address with practical advice:

• Jack Doyle’s Potential
  Listener: “I haven't heard much about Baby Hands Jack Doyle. What's your opinion on him? I have him and I'm not too confident.”
  Andy Holloway and Mike Wright discuss Doyle’s role and potential, ultimately expressing cautious optimism based on team dynamics and offensive line performance.

• Cooper Kupp's Legitimacy as a WR2
  Listener: “Am I delusional thinking that Cooper Kupp can be a legitimate wide receiver to all season?”
  Mike Wright and Andy Holloway concur that Kupp has the upside to be a reliable WR2, especially with the departure of other key receivers, enhancing his target share.

• Kerryon Johnson's Waiver Wire Value
  Listener: “Somebody in my league just dropped Kerryon Johnson. How much of my FAB budget should I spend to make sure that I get him?”
  Mike Wright and Ronald Jones II debate the appropriate FAB (Free Agent Budget) allocation, suggesting a cautious approach to avoid overcommitting resources on a single player.

These segments provide actionable insights for listeners, enhancing their fantasy football strategies and decision-making processes.

8. Final Announcements and Promotions

Throughout the episode, the hosts intersperse promotions for their DFS podcast and contests:

• FanDuel Survivor Contest
  Ronald Jones II promotes the contest:
  “$250,000 Survivor contest... You pick one team each week and then you can't use that team again the rest of the season.”
  [21:09]

• NFL Game Pass Trial
  Mike Wright highlights the benefits of NFL Game Pass for in-depth game analysis:
  “Sign up now@NFL.com fantasy footballers that NFL.com fantasy footballers game on and Foot Clan.”
  [19:58]

These promotions are seamlessly integrated into the conversation, offering listeners opportunities to engage further with the Fantasy Footballers’ content and perks.

Conclusion

This episode of The Fantasy Footballers Podcast masterfully balances humor, expert analysis, and listener engagement. From scrutinizing player performances and making bold Super Bowl predictions to providing strategic advice on waiver wire spending and best ball drafts, the hosts deliver a comprehensive and entertaining discussion. Whether you’re a seasoned fantasy manager or a newcomer, the insights shared in this episode are invaluable for navigating the upcoming NFL season with confidence and flair.