Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary Episode: Top 10 QB Rankings + Evolving Opinions, Deshaun Warlock
Release Date: August 13, 2020

Overview

In this episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve deep into their top 10 quarterback rankings for the upcoming fantasy football season. Alongside the rankings, they discuss evolving opinions on key players, offer insights into recent NFL news, and engage in entertaining discussions about player performances and potential. The episode provides valuable analysis for fantasy football enthusiasts aiming to optimize their draft strategies.

Segment 1: News and Notes

George Kittle’s Contract Extension
At [12:46], Andy Holloway announces a significant update for tight end George Kittle:

“Five year, $75 million contract extension for star Tight end George Kittle reported by Ian Rapaport this morning.”

Mike Wright adds his admiration for Kittle’s impact:

“He's a tight end, but he is that important to the team.” [14:01]

Seahawks’ Will Dissley’s Comeback
The hosts express amazement at Seahawks tight end Will Dissley's quick return from injury after tearing his Achilles ten months prior.

Andy Holloway praises Dissley’s resilience:
“Pete Carroll expects him to be ready for week one.” [14:28]

Marlon Mack vs. Jonathan Taylor
Andy discusses the fantasy value of running backs Marlon Mack and Jonathan Taylor:

“If this gap is only three rounds, I'm probably taking Jonathan Taylor in the fourth round.” [17:21]

Segment 2: Evolving Opinions on Players

Lev Bell’s Rising Fantasy Value
Andy Holloway shares his increasing confidence in Lev Bell, projecting him into his top 10 running backs:

“He’s a workhorse back… I’m feeling positive towards Lev Bell.” [03:38]

Jason Moore concurs while highlighting concerns:

“He still is a workhorse back. He’s still going to get the vast majority of volume.” [05:41]

Todd Gurley’s Declining Fantasy Prospects
Jason Moore explains his cooling stance on Todd Gurley due to potential workload limitations:

“So he’s someone that I’ve certainly been cooling on.” [06:18]

Andy echoes the sentiment, emphasizing the uncertainty surrounding Gurley’s usage:

“It doesn’t take a whole lot when you’re receiving back to get inside the top 10.” [04:31]

Deshaun Watson’s Roller-Coaster Fantasy Performance
The hosts debate Deshaun Watson’s reliability, noting his inconsistent touchdown output last season:

“If you draft him, you have to pay a price that says you’re starting him every single week.” [52:03]

Jason labels Watson as "Deshaun Warlock," highlighting his unpredictable play:

“That the Packers don't love that… Russell Wilson reminds me a lot of Deshaun Watson.” [53:39]

Segment 3: Top 10 Quarterback Rankings

The core of the episode revolves around the hosts’ top 10 QB rankings, featuring detailed analyses of each quarterback's fantasy potential.

1. Lamar Jackson

   • Andy Holloway praises Jackson’s dual-threat capabilities:

     “He ran for 1200 yards… a pillar of consistency.” [25:09]

   • Jason Moore emphasizes his unparalleled rushing upside:

     “Pat Mahomes would be the number one quarterback because he throws so many touchdowns.” [25:26]

2. Patrick Mahomes
   Ranked second, with highlights on his high passing volume and consistency:

   “He threw for 50 touchdowns the year before.” [30:53]

3. Dak Prescott
   Recognized for his passing prowess despite less rushing ability:

   “He's a starter each and every week.” [27:12]

4. Kyler Murray
   Lauded for his rushing ability and high ceiling:

   “He has the ability to hit, go for 5, 6, 700 rushing yards.” [36:35]

5. Russell Wilson
   Andy and Jason express reservations about Wilson’s weekly consistency:

   Andy: “I will never draft Russell Wilson in fantasy football.” [45:20]
   Jason: “He should be in the conversation.” [45:21]

6. Drew Brees
   Despite age concerns, Brees is valued for his reliable passing:

   “He was locked in… a fantasy football legend.” [46:05]

7. Deshaun Watson
   Positioned seventh with high risk due to consistency issues:

   Jason: “He is one of the… fun quarterbacks to watch.” [54:01]

8. Matthew Stafford
   Praised for his deep passing ability and offensive weapons:

   “He was airing it out more than any quarterback in the league.” [64:50]

9. Josh Allen
   Recognized for his rushing touchdowns but concerns over passing efficiency:

   Mike: “I don't draft him for fantasy.” [57:42]

10. Carson Wentz
    Valued for his passing stats but questioned for weekly fantasy impact:

    Jason: “I would take Carson Wentz.” [58:53]

Notable Quotes:

• Andy Holloway on Lamar Jackson’s value:

  “[...] if you could get a certified guarantee that this is the kind of production you would get from a quarterback that's not replaceable. That's not replaceable at all.” [26:35]

• Jason Moore on Mahomes and Lamar:

  “I believe that the Kansas City Chiefs are going to have a phenomenal year.” [25:26]

Segment 4: Interactive Discussion and Games

The hosts engage in a playful comparison of Russell Wilson and Andy Dalton over the past four years, highlighting Wilson’s inconsistency:

• Completion Metrics: Dalton slightly edges out Wilson in completions per game and total games over 300 passing yards [42:35].
• Rushing Touchdowns: Dalton is favored over Wilson in rushing touchdowns [44:30].

Game Highlights:

• Comparative Statistics:

  “Andy Dalton has more completions and total 300-yard games despite fewer games played.” [42:26]

• Insights on Performance:

  “Russell Wilson’s consistency was not there.” [41:33]

Segment 5: Final Thoughts and Draft Strategies

Drafting Quarterbacks: The hosts debate optimal draft rounds for top QBs, balancing between high-performing, consistent players and those with high ceilings but greater risk:

• Andy Holloway: Prefers drafting Lamar Jackson in early rounds due to his guaranteed high production [25:09].
• Jason Moore: Suggests Mahomes should remain a top pick, with Lamar benefiting from his unique dual-threat ability [27:14].
• Mike Wright: Advocates for careful selection, emphasizing consistency over potential [58:23].

Josh Allen vs. Kyler Murray: A discussion on whether to prioritize Allen’s rushing ability or Murray’s higher passing ceiling:

“Kyler’s rushing yardage says that if the passing touchdowns and the passing volume comes, Dak wouldn't be able to keep up with Kyler because of the rushing capability.” [36:35]
“Josh Allen is going to have a fabulous NFL season without giving you what you want for your fantasy team.” [60:23]

Key Takeaways

• Lamar Jackson stands out as the top fantasy quarterback due to his exceptional rushing and passing abilities.
• Patrick Mahomes remains a close second, with his high passing volume and consistency making him a reliable pick.
• Deshaun Watson and Russell Wilson are viewed with caution due to their fluctuating weekly performances, despite their high ceilings.
• Josh Allen offers significant rushing upside but is limited by his passing inconsistency.
• Matthew Stafford is praised for his deep passing and offensive weapons, making him a valuable mid-round pick.

Notable Quotes:

• Andy Holloway on QB Consistency vs. Ceiling:

  “But can he finish as the quarterback one?” [45:20]

• Jason Moore on Deshaun Watson's Potential:

  “He is one of the quarterbacks that make that massive leap.” [61:33]

Conclusion

This episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the top quarterbacks for the upcoming fantasy season, balancing proven consistency with high-upside potential. The Fantasy Footballers offer nuanced perspectives on player performances, upcoming contracts, and evolving team dynamics, equipping listeners with the insights needed to make informed draft decisions. Whether you're prioritizing a reliable starter or seeking a high-ceiling quarterback, this episode serves as an essential guide for optimizing your fantasy football roster.

For more insights and resources, visit the Fantasy Footballers' website at fantasyfootballers.com and follow them on Twitter @theffballers.