Fantasy Footballers Podcast - Episode Summary: "Top 10 RB Rankings + Best Ball Breakdown" (Released August 7, 2020)

In this engaging episode of the Fantasy Footballers Podcast, hosts Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, and Mike "The Fantasy Hitman" Wright delve deep into their Top 10 Running Back (RB) Rankings for the upcoming NFL season, followed by a comprehensive Best Ball Breakdown tailored for Underdog Fantasy players. The episode is packed with insightful analysis, strategic advice, and lively discussions that cater to both seasoned fantasy managers and newcomers alike.

1. Introduction and Foot Clan Friday

The episode opens with the hosts celebrating the first-ever Foot Clan Friday, a segment dedicated to their most loyal listeners. Jason Moore announces a giveaway of a Sammy Watkins signed jersey, congratulating Ashley Kent as the lucky winner (03:44). This segment emphasizes the community-focused nature of the podcast and rewards listener engagement.

Notable Quote:

Jason Moore (03:44): "An exclusive item every Friday to the Foot Clan. Thanks for supporting the show and enjoy your Sammy Watkins jersey from pristineauction.com."

2. Co-Managing Teams in Fantasy Football

The hosts shift gears to discuss the dynamics of co-managing fantasy teams, highlighting the challenges and benefits of sharing managerial responsibilities. Jason Moore candidly admits his struggles with co-managing, while Mike Wright suggests pragmatic solutions like delegating specific tasks or using coin flips to resolve disagreements.

Notable Quotes:

Jason Moore (05:32): "Knowing that the Bonjour was on the way. Co managing is. I have a confession to make. I'm a terrible co manager."

Mike Wright (08:31): "Who founded the team? Look, you get a slight edge when it comes to the vote of the start sit or the, or the draft pick."

3. NFL Opt-Outs and Player News

The discussion moves to the NFL and NFLPA opt-out period, with Jason Moore noting that only a few significant players, like Damian Williams and Devin Funches, opted out as of the deadline. The low number of opt-outs is seen as positive news for fantasy managers, maintaining player availability and competitive balance.

Notable Quote:

Jason Moore (09:07): "Nothing really significant happened. Yesterday there were 66 opt outs in total across all positions... 2.5% of the NFL player base."

4. Top 10 Running Back Rankings

The core of the episode revolves around the hosts' Top 10 RB Rankings, each providing detailed analysis and justifications for their placements.

1. Christian McCaffrey

Christian McCaffrey tops the list unanimously. His dual-threat capability as a runner and receiver makes him an invaluable asset in both standard and PPR (Points Per Reception) leagues. Andy Holloway emphasizes McCaffrey's reliability despite changes in his team’s offensive structure.

Notable Quotes:

Andy Holloway (14:12): "He just rebukes it. It doesn't land. But he is oil."

Jason Moore (17:36): "There has been 116 catches, and that's what Christian McCaffrey had last year. The 141 targets would have been eighth at the wide receiver position."

2. Ezekiel Elliott

Coming in second, Ezekiel Elliott is praised for his consistent performance and pivotal role in the Dallas Cowboys offense. While concerns about potential reduced workload due to Tony Pollard's involvement are noted, his overall reliability keeps him high on the rankings.

Notable Quote:

Andy Holloway (20:48): "He is by far the safest running back. To me, his offense is intact."

3. Saquon Barkley

Saquon Barkley secures the third spot, highlighted for his explosive playmaking ability and high touchdown potential. Despite previous injury concerns, his athleticism and central role in the offense make him a top-tier fantasy asset.

Notable Quote:

Mike Wright (24:29): "He's going to have more of them that will push you in fully into victories like week 16."

4. Dalvin Cook

Dalvin Cook is ranked fourth, with the hosts acknowledging his dominant performance last season tempered by injury risks. His workload and offensive team's stability are key factors in his placement.

Notable Quote:

Jason Moore (26:45): "Dalvin Cook made the jump last year, I think Jacobs makes it this year and they involve him in the passing game a little bit more."

5. Clyde Edwards-Helaire

As a rookie, Clyde Edwards-Helaire receives commendation for his immediate impact in the Kansas City Chiefs' high-powered offense. His versatility and potential for touchdown opportunities make him a promising pick.

Notable Quote:

Andy Holloway (35:58): "Clyde Edwards Allaire is more talented than either of those guys, LaShawn or Damian Williams."

6. Alvin Kamara

Alvin Kamara sparks debate with his sixth-place ranking. Jason Moore places him higher, citing his receiving prowess, while Andy Holloway and Mike Wright express concerns about his injury history and usage in the Saints' offense.

Notable Quote:

Mike Wright (37:53): "Alvin Camara is going to catch 80 plus passes. I do not think it is a guarantee that he positively regresses with the touchdown totals on the ground."

7. Derek Henry

Derek Henry remains a powerhouse with his high volume of carries and consistent touchdown scoring. Jason Moore highlights his dominance, while Andy Holloway underscores the essential nature of his role in the Titans' offense.

Notable Quote:

Jason Moore (41:14): "If you get 16 touchdowns again, you do need the touchdowns because the 12 the year before in 2018, 16 last year."

8. Josh Jacobs

Josh Jacobs is recognized for his potential to elevate into the upper echelons of fantasy RBs. The hosts discuss his increased involvement in the passing game and his growing role within the Raiders' offensive scheme.

Notable Quote:

Jason Moore (44:21): "Josh Jacobs is a flag plant for me this year."

9. Miles Sanders

Miles Sanders ranks ninth amidst some contention among the hosts. Andy Holloway passionately defends his status as a workhorse back, while Jason Moore remains more cautious, considering his offensive environment and potential workload.

Notable Quote:

Andy Holloway (48:20): "There is no chance he is not a workhorse back. He will be one of the few workhorse."

10. Aaron Jones

Rounding out the list, Aaron Jones is lauded for his versatility and touchdown potential. Concerns about his usage and possible regression in touchdown production are discussed, though his role in the Packers' offense remains strong.

Notable Quote:

Mike Wright (52:31): "I like Aaron Jones. I think he's a spectacular talent."

5. Best Ball Breakdown with Underdog Fantasy

Transitioning from rankings, the hosts introduce the Best Ball Breakdown, offering strategic tips for players participating in Underdog Fantasy's Best Ball format. Andy Holloway emphasizes the importance of drafting diverse running backs from different teams rather than stacking backups from your own team to maximize weekly performance and mitigate risks.

Notable Tips:

• Avoid Stacking Backups: "Don't draft your own team's backup running backs. Do draft other teams' backup running backs."
• Leverage Elite QBs: In smaller leagues, prioritize elite quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes and Lamar Jackson as there are limited top-tier options.

Notable Quote:

Andy Holloway (57:51): "Don't draft your own team's backup running backs. Do draft other teams' backup running backs."

6. Conclusion and Call to Action

The episode wraps up with a reminder to listeners to leave reviews on Apple Podcasts, enhancing the show's visibility and community strength. The hosts also encourage joining their fantasy football community at jointhefoot.com and following them on Twitter at @theffballers for ongoing updates and insights.

Notable Quote:

Jason Moore (60:27): "Do us a favor leave us a review on Apple Podcasts. It helps the show a lot. We'll talk to you on Monday."

Key Takeaways:

• Christian McCaffrey remains the premier RB choice due to his dual-threat capabilities.
• Ezekiel Elliott and Saquon Barkley offer consistency and high touchdown potential, respectively.
• Dalvin Cook and Clyde Edwards-Helaire are strong picks with considerations around injury risks and rookie potential.
• Alvin Kamara, Derek Henry, Josh Jacobs, Miles Sanders, and Aaron Jones complete the top 10, each with unique strengths and considerations for fantasy drafts.
• The Best Ball Breakdown provides strategic advice for optimizing team performance in Underdog Fantasy's format, emphasizing diversification and smart drafting strategies.

This episode serves as an invaluable resource for fantasy football enthusiasts aiming to dominate their leagues with well-informed RB selections and strategic best ball tactics.

Timestamp Guide:

• [03:44] – Foot Clan Friday Giveaway
• [05:32] – Discussion on Co-Managing Teams
• [09:07] – NFL Opt-Outs Update
• [14:12] – Christian McCaffrey Analysis
• [17:36] – McCaffrey's Enhanced Receiving Role
• [20:48] – Ezekiel Elliott's Safety and Consistency
• [24:29] – Saquon Barkley's Touchdown Potential
• [26:45] – Dalvin Cook's Injury Risk
• [35:58] – Clyde Edwards-Helaire's Rookie Impact
• [37:53] – Alvin Kamara's Receiving and Injury Concerns
• [41:14] – Derek Henry's Dominance
• [44:21] – Josh Jacobs' Potential Growth
• [48:20] – Miles Sanders' Workhorse Status
• [52:31] – Aaron Jones' Versatility
• [57:51] – Best Ball Strategy Tips
• [60:27] – Call to Action for Reviews

Note: The timestamps correspond to segments within the transcript for reference.