Fantasy Footballers Podcast Summary

Episode: Top 10 Running Backs + Preseason Fever, Xena Battles
Release Date: August 9, 2018
Hosts: Andy Holloway, Jason Moore, Mike Wright

Introduction

In this energetic episode, the Fantasy Footballers delve deep into the top 10 running backs for the upcoming Fantasy Football season. Alongside their primary analysis, they sprinkle in discussions about preseason football's impact and engage in light-hearted banter, including humorous references to "Xena Battles."

The Importance of Running Backs in Fantasy Drafts

The hosts kick off by emphasizing the critical role that running backs play in Fantasy Football. Andy Holloway asserts, “I'm so excited to be talking about running back” (01:10), highlighting the perennial debate between selecting RBs early versus opting for wide receivers.

Jason Moore reinforces this sentiment, stating, “the reality of the running back position... [is] hard to find running backs that are able to carry a workload” (08:27). He underscores the scarcity of reliable RB1s, noting that only nine running backs achieved over 1,000 yards last season, illustrating the depth gap at this position.

Top 10 Running Backs Analysis

The core of the episode revolves around an in-depth evaluation of the top 10 running backs. Here's a breakdown of each pick along with the hosts' insights:

1. Todd Gurley (Number 1)

   • Jason Moore praises Gurley's consistency: “He was unbelievable” (13:15).
   • Andy Holloway adds, “...Todd Gurley...finishing 93% of games as RB1 or RB2” (13:15).
   • Jason challenges alternatives: “Give me a reason to pick somebody over Todd Gurley” (13:32).

2. Le'Veon Bell (Number 2)

   • Mike Wright highlights Bell's workhorse status: “He is the ultimate workhorse in the NFL” (16:55).
   • Jason Moore expresses admiration for Bell’s versatility: “He could very well be the number two wide receiver on the team” (16:01).
   • Andy emphasizes Bell's receiving prowess: “He is the best pass catching running back in the NFL” (16:31).

3. David Johnson (Number 3)

   • Jason Moore reflects on Johnson’s resilience: “David Johnson was probably more disappointed than all of us” (18:49).
   • Andy Holloway points out his significance to the Cardinals: “David Johnson is going to be the focal point” (19:05).

4. Alvin Kamara (Number 4)

   • Jason Moore lauds Kamara’s efficiency: “last year he had an insane 7.7 yards per touch” (26:02).
   • Andy Holloway debates his workload: “If I'm on the clock and Leonard Fournette and Alvin Camara are there…” (27:33).

5. Ezekiel Elliott (Number 5)

   • Jason Moore commends Elliott’s offensive line: “Pro Football Focus has their offensive line ranked at number two” (32:27).
   • Andy Holloway highlights Elliott’s consistency: “He is an exceptional talent” (41:25).

6. Melvin Gordon (Number 6)

   • Jason Moore discusses Gordon’s workload: “he was used in all facets, great at catching the ball” (36:51).
   • Mike Wright emphasizes his fantasy reliability: “I feel very confident with Melvin Gordon as a three down guy” (38:03).

7. Saquon Barkley (Number 7)

   • Jason Moore expresses excitement for Barkley’s potential: “If Saquon Barkley is Zeke” (40:18).
   • Andy Holloway praises his athleticism: “he is not a freak athlete” (41:07).

8. Leonard Fournette (Number 8)

   • Jason Moore compares Fournette to Elliott: “Zeke is the comp for Leonard Fournette” (46:41).
   • Andy Holloway discusses his role in Jacksonville’s offense: “he was used in all facets, great at catching the ball” (44:53).

9. Kareem Hunt (Number 9)

   • Jason Moore reminisces about Hunt’s breakout: “he was one of the most commonly owned players on Finals teams last year” (48:07).
   • Mike Wright highlights Hunt’s versatility: “he led the league in rushing” (49:15).

10. Dalvin Cook (Number 10)

    • Jason Moore anticipates Cook’s growth: “Dalvin Cook has not been in the NFL yet. But this is the equivalent of flicking on the oven light” (53:16).
    • Andy Holloway underscores Cook’s potential: “He fell because of some character concerns going into that draft” (54:20).

Preseason Fever and Team Preparations

The hosts discuss the excitement around preseason football, viewing it as a remedy for their “fantasy fever.” Jason Moore humorously suggests, “the only prescription is preseason football” (01:19). They debate the value of preseason games, with Mike Wright advocating for its importance in evaluating rookies and new players.

Mailbag: Listener Questions

The episode features a segment where the hosts address listener inquiries:

1. Ethan from Virginia: Big Ben’s Home vs. Road Splits

   • Andy Holloway remains cautious: “There's still concern” (58:07).
   • Mike Wright provides historical data: “Big Ben is a much better fantasy quarterback at home” (58:48).

2. Caleb from Kroll: Drafting LaShawn McCoy

   • Andy Holloway recommends the back of the third round: “the back of the third is the highest that I would draft” (60:05).
   • Mike Wright concurs, suggesting early third-round consideration: “I would take him at the back of the second or the beginning of the third round” (60:11).

3. David from Texas: Drafting Defenses Early

   • Andy Holloway advises against reaching for defenses: “I still would not reach for a defense” (59:30).
   • Jason Moore echoes the sentiment, emphasizing matchup dependency: “defenses are so dependent upon the matchup” (60:37).

Preseason and Fantasy Resources

Throughout the episode, the hosts promote their partnership with platforms like FanDuel and SeatGeek, offering listeners bonuses and discounts. They also encourage engagement through social media and their website, fostering a community of passionate fantasy football enthusiasts.

Conclusion

Wrapping up, the Fantasy Footballers reiterate the significance of strategic RB selections and offer final tips for navigating the Fantasy Football landscape. Their blend of expert analysis and entertaining commentary provides listeners with valuable insights to dominate their fantasy leagues.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Jason Moore: “the only prescription is preseason football” (01:19)
• Andy Holloway: “I'm so excited to be talking about running back” (01:10)
• Jason Moore: “Give me a reason to pick somebody over Todd Gurley” (13:32)
• Mike Wright: “He is the ultimate workhorse in the NFL” (16:55)
• Andy Holloway: “He is the best pass catching running back in the NFL” (16:31)
• Jason Moore: “He was one of the most commonly owned players on Finals teams last year” (48:07)
• Mike Wright: “Big Ben is a much better fantasy quarterback at home” (58:48)
• Andy Holloway: “There's still concern” (58:07)

Key Takeaways

• Running Backs are Crucial: Securing top RBs early in drafts is pivotal due to their limited availability and high impact on weekly scores.
• Top 10 RB Analysis: Each running back from Todd Gurley to Dalvin Cook is meticulously evaluated based on past performance, team dynamics, and potential for the upcoming season.
• Preseason Insights: Preseason games serve as a valuable tool for assessing player readiness and potential breakout candidates.
• Listener Engagement: Addressing real-time questions helps listeners make informed decisions tailored to their unique fantasy scenarios.

For more insights and resources, visit thefantasyfootballers.com and follow the hosts on Twitter @the_ffballers and Instagram @fantasyfootballers.